2008 was not a good year for many of us. With soaring gas prices, a crumbling economy, war in the Middle East and unemployment at an all time high, we say good riddance to 2008. Sure, all these issues will not go away quickly in 2009, but there is hope. Most notably, the election of our first African American President, vowing to make the changes we so desperately need. Gas prices have come back down and there is a light at the end of the tunnel to get the economy and jobs back on track.
Enough of the doom and gloom. Let's grab 2009 by the horns and ride it into the best year ever. This will be the year of hope, change and new beginnings. With a positive attitude and a passion for good times, Metromix has come up with many reasons why we should look forward to 2009. The Atlanta entertainment scene will be in full swing, take advantage of all our great city has to offer.
So, forget about the disastrous 2008 and take a look at the reasons why you can look forward to 2009 in Atlanta. Let the good times roll!
Atlanta Festivals:
- Atlanta Dogwood Festival: The 73rd annual Dogwood Festival is returning to Piedmont Park this year on April 17, 18 and 19. This Atlanta staple is always the highlight of spring in Atlanta, with three days of music, art and activities. Oh, and certainly the gorgeous blooming Dogwood trees throughout the park make this a festival not to miss.
- Georgia Renaissance Festival: What's more fun than jousting, turkey legs and bar wenches? The Georgia Renaissance Festival returns for another year of Medieval fun and games every weekend from April 18 to June 7 in Fairburn, Georgia.
- Atlanta Pride: The actual date of this annual gay pride event has not been set due to the long venue search. However, the venue has been selected. Central Park, in Midtown, near the Civic Center will be home base, but the party spreads all over Atlanta. Expect a late June, early July date.
- Atlanta Jazz Festival: The annual Memorial Day festival, May 23-25, spreads the good Jazz vibe all over Atlanta. Including venues in Downtown and Midtown. This festival is has been an Atlanta favorite for 32 years running. Enjoy large and small concerts, vendors, shopping, arts and crafts, food and activities all over the city.
- Inman Park Festival: During the last full weekend in April each year, Inman Park proudly presents a neighborhood festival widely regarded as Atlanta’s most spirited and eclectic. The 38th annual Inman Park Spring Festival and Tour of Homes will take place Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26, 2009
Concerts and music events: There are some amazing concerts coming to Atlanta in 2009. Our premier music venues like Chastain, Lakewood, Center Stage, Philips Arena, Atlanta Civic Center and Georgia Dome are filling their 2009 schedules. Some shows to look out for so far include Scott Weiland, Sevendust, Katy Perry, Britney Spears and the Killers. Rumor has it Guns N' Roses are planning a tour to start in spring or summer. Let's hope for an Atlanta stop.
Let's not forget about our great local bands. There is a constant flow of amazing shows at Smith's Olde Bar, Vinyl, Star Bar, The Earl, Northside Tavern and a host of other fantastic live music venues. There is always good music to be had in Atlanta. For an overdose of music, check out the Atlantis Music Conference that brings in hundreds of up and coming artists from all over the country. This three day music bonanza usually takes place in September. Details will be announced. We'll keep you informed.
Sports and recreation: We are getting an early New Year's present with our very own Atlanta Falcons surprising everyone by making the playoffs. Our normally mediocre Hawks actually made the playoffs last year and are poised to make it to the promise land again this year. The Braves have been re-building, but are still the darlings of Atlanta. If the Thrashers can pull it together, this could be an exciting year for Atlanta sports. Is it even fathomable to think all our pro sports teams can actually be playoff bound? Now that would make 2009 a year to look forward to!
If college sports are more your bag, we have a promising year for that as well. UGA and GA Tech football always provide possible national title hopes and the college hoops teams are improving as well. To top it off, the Georgia Dome will host the 2009 ACC Men's Basketball Tournament on March 12-15. Let the March madness begin!
Something old and something new:
- Piedmont Park: The drought seems to be behind us and that is good news for Piedmont Park. There is nothing sweeter in the spring, summer and fall than a stroll through our beautiful park. Some events are coming back to the park so be ready for some sun and fun. Bring the dog.
- Patio dining and drinking: We all know how Atlanta loves their patio bars. In just a couple short months, you and your friends will be back on those famous patios having dinner and sipping margarita's. Now that is something to look forward to.
- The new W hotel and bar, Whiskey Blue: Despite the economy, Atlanta has new venues opening every month. The new posh lounge at the W hotel in Buckhead is hotter than hot right now. You'll need to dress to impress or you won't get in.
- The new hot club, Primal: This new club, located in the old Wet Bar location, is making some noise. No, it's not a gay bar. It is an over-the-top, Vegas style, club that is attracting celebrities and beautiful people by the hundreds.
- The new "it" restaurant, Flip: Celebrity Chef, Richard Blaise of "Top Chef" has done it again with his new take on gourmet burgers. Flip is by far the most talked about new restaurant in Atlanta. It should certainly be on your 2009 to do list.
