(ATLANTA, Ga.) While the COVID-19 pandemic caused the world to stop (or pause) for a year, many events are looking to make a comeback this summer.
Many businesses were able to open and operate under new guidelines and safety regulations last May, but live events and outdoor gatherings like festivals were still put on hold.
However, local events and festivals are gearing up for the summer and providing daytime fun for people of all ages.
A popular festival in Decatur, the Arts Festival, is usually the start of outside activities, typically falling on Memorial Day weekend. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival was canceled last year and there are no plans to bring it back this year.
According to the Executive Director of the Decatur Arts Alliance, the organization is looking to partner with local college Agnes Scott for a fine arts exhibition and artist market in the fall.
“We want to get the artists some work as well as get folks to shop downtown again,” Macon said in a public statement.
While the arts festival is placed on hold, there will be other festivals returning to the city. Here are a few events to add to your summer to-do list:
Decatur Book Festival
Normally occurring during Labor Day weekend, the Book Festival is hosting a summer reading series event online. The series will feature a headlined event with Stacey Abrams discussing her literary thriller, While Justice Sleeps. This virtual event will run from May 4 – June 29.
The Decatur BBQ Blues & Bluegrass Festival
This popular festival is returning to Decatur on Aug. 14 at Legacy Park. This year’s festival is headlined by Grammy-nominated blues artist G Love & The Juice. Additional artists are set to be announced at a later date, tickets are currently on sale.
Kirkwood Spring Fling Festival
The Kirkwood neighborhood is bringing back its festival, however, it will be scaled-down in efforts to maintain proper safety guidelines. Currently, there will be different vendor booths, food trucks and a 5K run. The festival will be held on July 31 and more details are expected to follow.