Hello, local readers. Once again we’re here with your weekend guide, where we share our favorite things to do in and around Atlanta and point out where you can get free stuff along the way. As always, be sure to add anything we missed in the comments.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey present Barnum’s Funundrum!
Philips Arena. Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 10:30am & 7:3 pm; Saturday & Sunday, 11am, 3pm & 7pm. $7 to $130.
Come celebrate Barnum’s 200th birthday at “the biggest birthday bash in circus history.” In addition to admission to the show, all ticket holders gain entry to the All Access Pre-Show, where you can get up close and personal with the animals, meet the performers, try on costumes and more. Check out the event page for more details on showtimes and prices throughout the weekend.
More info and directions.
Photo credit: wolfsavard’s photostream.
Winter Beer Carnival
Spring St. & 8th St. in Midtown. Saturday, 3pm – 7pm (VIP 2pm). $35 advance; $40 day of; $60 VIP; $20 for designated drivers.
The Winter Beer Carnival returns to Midtown to pour up plenty to taste and experience in its second year. The area (at Spring St. & 8th St.) will be transformed into a carnival-themed celebration featuring midway games, rides, great food, DJs & entertainment, and of course more than 100 beers to sample including traditional favorites, premium craft beers and an assortment of the best winter brews.
More info and directions.
Polar Plunge 2011
Lake Lanier Islands. Saturday, 11am. $50 minimum in pledges per participant.
In the 2nd annual Polar Plunge, brave swimmers will jump into icy Lake Lanier to benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Georgia. Participants raise money by soliciting donations from friends and family. Designated areas will be heated to accommodate spectators, and warm drinks and unique souvenirs will be available for purchase. Prizes will be awarded in categories such as best costume, highest individual fundraiser, highest fundraising team, and more. Sponsors include Star94 FM, StateFarm, and Bass Pro Shops.
More info and directions.
Macon Film Festival
Downtown Macon. Thursday – Sunday. $10+.
Hop on I-75 South this weekend for the Macon Film Festival, held annually in the heart of downtown Macon’s arts & cultural center. Currently in its sixth year, the 2011 festival will span four days to feature 100+ film submission screenings and 4 new categories of awards as well as special screenings of indie favorites including “Get Low,” “Fat Boy Chronicles” and more.
More info and directions.
An Evening of Champagne & Fashion
Phidippides at Ansley Mall. Sunday, 4pm – 7pm. Free.
Active women should not miss Phidippides’ Evening of Champagne & Fashion this Sunday evening, where attendees can sip champagne while watching a fashion show featuring the latest apparel from Brooks, Saucony, New Balance, Nike, Adidas, and more of your favorite activewear designers. Moving Comfort technical designer Audrey Kirkland will perform personalized sports bra fittings and the first 100 guests to RSVP online will receive a goody bag full of promotional products!
More info and directions.
Celebrity Chocolate Buffet
Park 75. Friday, 9pm. $25/person.
Chocolate mousse parfait, chocolate coffee toffee brownie, chocolate raspberry truffle cake…a choco-holics dream! Buy your tickets to attend the kick-off of this delicious event at the Four Seasons Atlanta’s own Park 75. Every Friday through March 25th, local celebrities along with Executive Chef Robert Gerstenecker will share their favorite chocolate desserts and decadent creations. Not only is this buffet delectable, but it also supports the Georgia Cancer Center for Excellence at Grady Health System.
More info and directions.