My, oh my, do I have another weekend packed full of fun things to do! There are events for the nature-lover, the basketball player and more. There's also Atlanta's annual St. Patrick's Day parade. It looks like the weather will cooperate for all the events, so grab your kids and go do something fun this weekend!
1. Discover Nature at That Other Mountain
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When: 7 a.m. - sunset, daily nature preserve hours
Where: Arabia Mountain, 3787 Klondike Road, Lithonia, GA 30038. 770-484-3060. Trail is located near the west entrance of Stonecrest Mall.
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Why Go: If you and your family are nature lovers, then this is the place to be. Hike over rocks the size of football fields, see streams and waterfalls, and visit a 100-acre farm. Spring is blooming at Arabia Mountain, so you are sure to see flowers, moss, trees and all the little critters that seem to appear, as well. The preserve has hiking, walking and biking trails.
Pricing: Free!
2. Basketball Fun
When: 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 12
Where: The Arena at Gwinnet, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, Georgia 30097. Parking information here.
Why Go: Have you always wanted to see the legendary Harlem Globetrotters perform? Well, this is your chance. Take the family and go experience a one-of-kind event. In addition to their famous tricks and antics, they have implemented two new four-point spots (12-feet beyond the NBA's three-point line), which will lead to an even more exciting game to watch.
Pricing: $14.50-$150. Online Box Ofice.
3. Test Your Building Skills
What: Build a Basketball Game at Lowe's
When: 10 a.m., Saturday, March 12
Where: Your local Lowe's Store
Why Go: Your little builder (ages 5 and older) will enjoy building their very own toy basketball game with you or other family and friends. At the end of the event, children get to take it home and show everyone how it works!
Pricing: Free!
4. St. Patrick's Day Parade
What: Atlanta's 129th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade
When: 11 a.m., opening performance; 12 p.m., parade; and 2 p.m., family fun at Underground Atlanta, Saturday, March 13.
Where: Parade begins at Peachtree Street at the corner of Ralph McGill and proceeds down Peachtree Street, past Woodruff Park and Decatur Street. Parade takes a right turn onto Pryor Street and finishes at Underground Atlanta.
Parking: Atlanta Underground decks. You may also take MARTA to Civic Center Station, or at Civic Center. Plan to be there early for best parking and parade watching spots!
Why Go: Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with this spectacular annual event filled to the brim with fun stuff for you and your family. More than 250 parade units including floats, marching bands, clowns, animals, fire trucks, police vehicles, and more. The family event at Underground Atlanta will include performances by drill teams, Irish dancers, singers and others. Of course there will be tons of great food.
Pricing: Parade and performances are free! Food, drink, and parking prices vary.
5. A Theatre Outing
What: "Honk!" at The Alliance Theatre
When: Various times, March 5 – 20
Where: Alliance Theatre at Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309.
Why Go: Your children will love this funny musical based on Han Christian Anderson's beloved book, "The Ugly Duckling." The duckling, who isn't quite like the others, goes on a journey of self-discovery, and finds that inner is beauty is what counts. Best for children ages 4 and older.
Pricing: $20-$30. Go online for tickets.
