We didn’t have much of a winter in the southeast last year, and it appears the fall has already started to arrive a little early. The temperatures have begun to drop – ever so slightly – but enough to prompt the many that don’t enjoy the region’s heat and humidity to head outdoors for fall fun.
Here’s one part of the seasonal entertainment that’s absolutely free: along with the lessening heat and a gradual decline of the amount of daylight comes the changing of foliage color. Throughout October and the beginning of November we’ll see many of the trees and plants go from green to orange, red and yellow.
In a city like Atlanta with many historic neighborhoods such as Midtown, Morningside, Grant Park, Inman Park and others – all full of mature foliage – you won’t have to go far for some spectacular scenery.
A lot of inner city residents, however, like to take to the road and head for nearby Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway, where the seasonal color changes are quite likely the most vibrant in the country.
If you’re not much for road trips, there’s plenty to do back home in Atlanta.
Kicking off the Art on the Beltline Exhibit Saturday, Sept. 7, was the annual Lantern Parade. The Beltline, a former railway pass that stretches across 22 miles, connects 45 different neighborhoods, encircles the inner city and has been hailed as one of the most important historic revitalization projects in the country.
Continuing throughout the end of November will be an ongoing series of art exhibits and live performance art presentations. It’s an experience not to be missed – not only is it good exercise, the artwork and natural scenery are both enjoyable.
Atlanta’s annual Pride celebration has grown in leaps and bounds in recent years, to the point that it has become practically a month-long celebration leading up to a weekend festival in the park (including a performance by Taylor Dayne) and a massive Pride Parade.
“Paint with Pride” at Sips ‘n Strokes at Toco Hills Sept. is Sept. 21, and a Trans March and Community Planning meeting Sept. 25. Multiple bar parties continue throughout September and October.
Of particular note: watch for continuing literary events at Charis Books and More, a much anticipated and unusual exhibit of drag photography art – “Legendary Children” – at Gallery 1526 opening Sept. 28 (see cover story) and the weekend Pride celebration, which will include a Pride Kick-Off Party at the Georgia Aquarium and a commitment ceremony on the 27th floor of W Atlanta Midtown.
As in years past, Lambda Legal will hold a garden party for friends and supporters. This year it’s slated for Sept. 29, beginning at 3 p.m. and wrapping up at 6 p.m. The party – celebrating 40 years of Lambda Legal success – will take place at the home of Randy New and Russell Tippins.
Set for Oct. 20 in Piedmont Park is the 23rd Annual AIDS Walk Atlanta & 5K Run. Produced by AID Atlanta, it is the largest AIDS-related fundraising event in the Southeastern United States. The event, which raises much-needed funds for AIDS support organizations throughout the Atlanta Metro area, begins at 7 a.m and continues until 4 p.m.
The theme for this year’s Jerusalem House Halloween Party is “Fairy Tales and Magic.” An annual fundraiser for the largest provider of permanent housing for families affected by HIV/AIDS and low income families it has become one of the most popular Halloween events in the city. Kick-off begins at 7 p.m. on Oct. 26 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill. A costume contest is included, along with an after party at the Heretic.
While many events in November and December have yet to be announced, check back in the pages and on the website of Georgia Voice for additional details on other upcoming holiday celebrations.
Art on the Beltline
The Atlanta Beltline
Sept. 12 – Nov. 27
http://beltline.org/
Atlanta Arts Festival
Piedmont Park
Sept. 14 – 15
www.atlantaartsfestival.com
Lambda Legal Garden Party
Home of Randy New and Russell Tippins
Sept. 23
www.lambdalegal.org/atlanta
Out On Film
Landmark Theaters
Oct. 3-10
www.outonfilm.org
The Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund Champagne Brunch
Intercontinental Hotel
Oct. 6
www.victoryfund.org
Atlanta Pride Week
www.atlantapride.org
Official Pride Kick Off Party
The Georgia Aquarium
Oct. 11
Atlanta Pride Commitment Ceremony
W Atlanta, Midtown
Oct. 12
Atlanta Pride
Piedmont Park
Oct. 12-13
Sisterlove’s 2020 Leading Women’s Awards
Georgia Freight Depot
Oct. 18
www.sisterlove.org
AIDSWalk Atlanta & 5k Run
Piedmont Park
Oct. 20
www.aidswalkatlanta.com
Jerusalem House Halloween Party: Fairy Tales and Magic
The Foundry at Puritan Mill
Oct. 26
www.jerusalemhouse.org
World AIDS Day
Various locations
Dec. 1
www.worldaidsday.org
For The Kid in All of Us Tenth Annual Toy Party & Silent Auction
America’s Mart 3
Dec. 2
www.forthekid.org