July 2008   Click here to submit your own calendar event

Moments with Mommy. Two Crafty Chicks. Experience art, music and storytelling through activities and crafts. Ages 2-4. July 1, 22. 10-11 a.m. 1549 Clairmont Rd., Decatur. 404-216-5574. $7.

Toddler Thursdays. The High Museum of Art. Create art masterpieces and enjoy the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4444. Free with admission. Adults, $18; children 6-17, $11; under 6, free.

Lakeshore Learning Store. Art and craft activities for kids, including beaded necklaces, school bags, sea life scratch art and colorful caterpillars. July 5, 12, 19, 26. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 2757 Cobb Pkwy., Atlanta. 310-537-8600. Free.

Drop-In Kids Classes: Amphibians Abound. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Meet frogs, salamanders, newts and caecilians, and learn what sets amphibians apart from other animals. June 5, 12, 19, 26. 1:30-2:30 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $6.

Amphitheater Performances. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Designed to teach children more about the natural world, themes include The Moral of the Story, Boogie Woogie Bullfrog, Latin American Folktales, and Peace Pipes and Talking Leaves. July 5, 12, 19, 26. 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Free with admission. Adults, $12; children 3-17, $9; under 3, free.

Children’s Saturday – Oh Say Can You See? Booth Western Art Museum. See the different Georgia state flags, learn about Jasper Johns and his paintings featuring the American flag, and create your own flag design to take home. Ages 4-12. July 12. 10 a.m.-noon. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. Small fee for materials.

Solarbots. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Kids ages 5 and up have fun exploring alternative fuels by building a solar-powered race car. July 26. 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Pre-register. $5.

Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Pack a lunch and enjoy a variety of local artists performing pop, jazz and R&B. July 1,3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31. Noon-1 p.m. 265 Park Ave. West NW, Atlanta. 404-222-7275. Free.

The Ultimate Playdate. East Cobb Park. Jay Memory leads children in sing-alongs. July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. 4-7 p.m. 3322 Roswell Rd., Marietta. www. eastcobbpark.org. Free.

Wednesday WindDown. Centennial Olympic Park. Listen to jazz, R&B and blues artists like Ken Ford, Melvin Miller, Joey Sommerville and many more. July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. 5:30-8 p.m. 265 Park Ave. West NW, Atlanta. 404-222-7275. Free.

Kennesaw’s Summer Concert Series. Historic Train Depot. Listen to Frontiers-A Tribute to Journey, and enjoy fireworks at dusk. July 3. 8 p.m. 2828 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714.

Dahlonega’s First Friday Night Concert Series. Connor House Lawn. Listen to Curtis and Holly Jones and Friends. July 4. 6:30 p.m. The corner of North Chestatee and Warwick streets, Dahlonega. 706-864-3711. Free.

Century Bank Summer Concert Series. Friendship Plaza. Enjoy food, classic cars and music from The Neon’s. July 5. Car show, 5 p.m.; concert, 7-9 p.m. One Friendship Plaza, Cartersville. 770-607-3480. Free.

Riverside Sounds 2008. Riverside Park. Bring picnics, lawn chairs and blankets, and enjoy the music of Honi Deaton. July 5. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.

Glover Park Concert Series. Glover Park. Check out a performance by the Cobb Symphony Orchestra on July 5, and enjoy A1A (Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band) on July 25. July 5, 25. 8 p.m. 50 Park Sq., Marietta. 770-794-5601. Free.

Summer Concert Series. Mall of Georgia, The Village Amphitheater. See Stone Echo and The Woody’s perform. July 5 and 12. 6:30 p.m. 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 678-482-8788. Free.

Mountain Music Series. Red Top Mountain State Park, Vaughn Cabin. Listen to various artists perform live mountain and bluegrass music. July 5, 12, 19, 26. 8-9 p.m. 50 Lodge Rd., Cartersville. 770-975-4226. Free; parking, $3.

Saturday Evening Music Concert Series. Unicoi State Park. Various artists perform a variety of music, including Appalachian mountain, bluegrass and southern gospel. July 5, 12, 19, 26. 8 p.m. 1788 Hwy. 356 Rd., Helen. 706-878-2201. Free; parking, $3.

Concerts by the Springs. Sandy Springs Heritage Green. Bring picnic baskets, coolers or blankets and enjoy the music of Drivetrain. July 6. 7-8:30 p.m. 6110 Bluestone Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Free.

Brown Bag Concert Series. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn. Listen to a concert performed by The Bugaboos. July 11. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450. Free.

Summer Concert Series on the Green. Village Green. Bring blankets and low-back chairs for an evening concert with 7 Sharp 9. July 12. 7-10 p.m. 200 Village Green Cir., Smyrna. 770-319-2538. Free.

Second Sunday Family Performances. The High Museum of Art. Marian Anderson performed by Capitol City Opera of Young Audiences. July 13. 1, 2, and 3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4444. Free with admission. Adults, $18; children 6-17, $11; under 6, free.

Melodies in the Meadow. The Art Station-Big Shanty. Roswell New Horizon performs. July 19. 7-9 p.m. 2050 Kennesaw Due West Rd., Kennesaw. 770-514-5930. Free.

Summer Jazz Series. Villa Christina. Bring blankets or lawn chairs and listen to the music of Melvin Miller. Children’s activities include a moonwalk and face painting. July 20. 5:30-8 p.m. 4000 Summit Blvd., Atlanta. 404-303-0133. Free.

Moonlight and Music Concert Series. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn. Take in a concert by Shawn Mullins. July 25. 8 p.m. 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450. Free.

Ends of the Earth: From Polar Bears to Penguins. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Visitors explore the Arctic and Antarctic through interactive stations that let you dive into a polar bear den, slide like an emperor penguin and a “Test Your Ice Q” trivia game. Through Jan. 2, 2009. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Adults, $15; students, $14; children 3-12, $13; under 3, free.

Building a Healthy Body. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Kids learn as Buddy, which stands for “Body Under Development,” helps educate them about their bodies and encourages them to take care of, respect and honor their bodies. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. $6-$8.

Jim Henson: Puppeteer. Center for Puppetry Arts. Personal photographs, designs, sketches and puppets that Jim Henson performed with and created. Through Aug. 3. Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St. at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Adults, $8; children under 18, $6.

Liberty on the Border. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Learn about the physical and ideological borders that contributed to the war between the states. Through Sept. 7. Mon.-Sat. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Free with admission. Adults, $7.50; children 4-12, $5.50; under 4, free.

The Louvre and the Ancient World. The High Museum of Art. Sculpture and pottery from the founding cultures of Western civilization. Through Sept. 7. Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4444. Adults, $18; children 6-17, $11; under 6, free.

Under the Big Top: You’re the Ringmaster. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. The circus becomes a place to learn about taking care of mind, body and soul. Learn to tame the lions of laziness, perform feats of strength and wellness, and be the ringmaster of your own health. Through Sept. 14. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $11/person; children under 2, free.

Sculpture in Motion. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Explore how a variety of sculpture make natural forces visible. Through Oct. 31. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $12; children 3-17, $9; under 3, free.

Your Jewish Town. The Sophie Hirsh Srochi Jewish Discovery Museum. Allows children to experience a day in the life of their grandparents. Children can become tailors, shop at the kosher grocer, have a “nosh” in the town delicatessen and visit a child-sized synagogue. Through Dec. 26. Tues.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sun., 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 770-395-2511. $3/child.

Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945. Old Decatur Courthouse on the Square. Anne Frank’s journey from freedom in 1920’s Germany, to exile in the Netherlands, to hiding in a secret annex, to her eventual death in a concentration camp. Ages 10 and up. Through Jan. 2009. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-370-3056. Free.

Rivers-to-Reefs. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Learn about the waterways of Georgia and the creatures that call them home. Through Oct. 2009. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $7-$10; children 3-12, $3-$6; under 3, free.

Being Parents. Northside/Interchange Professional Building. An interactive discussion on how to maximize your enjoyment of parenthood. Recommended for parents with infants up to 8 months of age. July 9 and 16. 7-8:30 p.m. 5780 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 404-845-5555. Pre-register. Free.

Baby and Me. Northside Hospital Women’s Center. Class on the role of a newborn’s sister or brother. Topics include safety, diapering and emotions evoked with the introduction of a new baby. Designed for children ages 3-7 years old. July 12 and 26. Times vary. 1000 Johnson Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-845-5555. Pre-register. $16.

SOS – Strategies of Success. Doubletree Hotel. Conference introducing parents and educators to practical strategies which can assist the education of students with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders) in schools and inclusive programs. July 24-25. Thurs., 8 a.m.-4:15 p.m.; Fri., 8 a.m.-12:15 p.m. 2055 South Park Place, Atlanta. 404-727-3969. Pre-register. $109-$130.

Alive After 5. Downtown Roswell. Enjoy live entertainment, special savings at shops and galleries, restaurant specials and a free trolley service. July 17. 5-9 p.m. Includes Plum Tree Village and Canton Street. 770-641-3705. Free.

Children’s Boutique Warehouse Sale. Horizon Home. Save up to 70 percent off of children’s clothing, shoes, toys and room décor. Over 20 stores will participate. July 25-26. Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 1611 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd., Atlanta. 404-876-1359. Admission, $5.

Summer Kid Show Series. Cherokee Stadium Cinemas in Woodstock, Hollywood Stadium Cinemas in Gainesville, Merchants Walk Stadium Cinemas in Marietta, Park 12 Stadium Cinemas in Marietta, Town Center Value Cinemas in Lawrenceville. Films include Bee Movie, Shrek 3, Alvin and Chipmunks, among others. Free kids movies Tuesdays and Thursdays in July. Popcorn and drinks, $1 each. 10 a.m. Free.

AMC Summer MovieCamp. AMC Avenue Forsyth, AMC Discover Mills, AMC Southlake Pavilion and AMC Stonecrest Mall. Kids and adults can enjoy $1 movie admission Wednesday mornings throughout the summer to G- and PG- rated movies. July 2, The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep. July 9, Alvin and The Chipmunks. July 16, Shrek The Third. July 23, Bee Movie. July 30, Surf’s Up. 10 a.m. $1.

Flicks on 5th Summer Film Series. 5th Street at Technology Square. Bring blankets, chairs and food. July 9: “Hairspray.” Dusk. 5th Street at Technology Sq., Atlanta. 404-894-2805. Free.

Northside Hospital – Forsyth Film Fest. Central Park, Cumming. Watch family blockbusters on a 65-foot-wide movie screen while sitting on lawn chairs or blankets under the stars. Before the movie, enjoy food and activities like NoJoe’s Clown Circus, inflatable slide, moonwalks, an obstacle course, face painting, children’s activities and vendors. Films include Spider-Man 3, Alvin and the Chipmunks and Horton Hears a Who. July 10-12. 7-11 p.m. 2300 Keith Bridge Rd., Cumming. www.gamoviesinthepark.com. Free.

Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival. Fox Theatre. A mix of classic and current films with a pre-show featuring a sing-a-long, “Mighty Mo” organ concert and viewing of a classic cartoon. July movies include “Enchanted” and “Ben-Hur.” July 13. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-817-8700. Tickets, $7; parking, $5. 770-641-3715. Free.

Regal Cinema Free Family Film Festival. Mall of Georgia 20, Medlock Crossing 18 in Duluth, Snellville Oaks 14, Town Center 16 in Kennesaw, Arbor Place Mall 18, Regal 22 at Austell, North Point Market 8 in Alpharetta. Free movies each Tues.-Thurs. in July. Movies include Shrek 3, Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, Alvin and the Chipmunks, Bee Movie, Happy Feet and others. July 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, 22-24, 29-31. 10 a.m. Free.

IMAX Theatre at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. “Wild Ocean” opens July 9; “Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk” runs through July 18; “Antarctica” closes Jan. 2, 2009. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Adults, $13; students, $12; kids under 13, $11.

Movie at Riverside Park. Listen to music, play on the playgrounds, pack a picnic or purchase dinner at the concession stand, then settle in for “The Water Horse.” July 26. Dusk. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.

Wildlife Theater Show. Zoo Atlanta. The Zoo’s feathered friends take the stage in “Time for Training,” a new Wildlife Theater show featuring raptors, owls, parrots and more. July 1-7, 9-14, 16-21, 23-28, 30. 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-9453. Free with admission. Adults, $17.99; children 3-11, $12.99; under 3, free.

First Saturday Hike. Elachee Nature Science Center. Join a naturalist on a guided hike to enjoy the beauty of the Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve. July 5. 10-11:30 a.m. 2125 Elachee Dr., Gainesville. 770-535-1976.

Coyote and the Bees. Chattahoochee Nature Center. A dramatic presentation about the life of honeybees and the trouble they face today through two coyotes on a mission to find out what’s wrong. July 5. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $5; children 3-12, $2; under 3, free.

Incredible Insects. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Learn about insects that you encounter in everyday life. July 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27. 2 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $5; children 3-12, $2; under 3, free.

New Manchester History Hike. Sweetwater Creek State Park. A mile-long hike past whitewater rapids to the ruins of the Civil War-era New Manchester textile mill. July 5, 12, 19, 26. 10 a.m.-noon. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871. $1-$2; parking, $3.

The Great Cosmic Game Show. Fernbank Science Center. A planetarium show for children. Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 1:30 p.m. 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta. 678-874-7102. Adults, $4; children, $3.

Butterfly Events. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Butterfly releases every Saturday at 11 a.m., guided walks through the Butterfly Gardens every Sunday at 3 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $5; children 3-12, $2; under 3, free.

Tree Top Excursions: Open Climb. Panola Mountain State Park. Explore the canopy above with rope and harness through this introductory climb. July 5. 5-6:30 p.m. 781 Red Top Mountain Rd., Cartersville. 770-389-7801. $10; parking, $3.

Wood Carving 101. Panola Mountain State Park. Learn to carve wood by hand. Course covers types of wood, carving tools and equipment, and hands-on instruction. July 12. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 781 Red Top Mountain Rd., Cartersville. 770-389-7801. $25; parking, $3.

Raccoon Rendezvous. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Explore the natural habitat of this backyard animal. July 12. 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Pre-register. Free with admission. Adults, $7-$10; students, $5-$8; children 3-12, $3-$6; under 3, free.

Basic Canoe Clinic. Panola Mountain State Park. Learn how to safely use a canoe, then paddle around scenic Alexander Lake. July 19. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 781 Red Top Mountain Rd., Cartersville. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $20; parking, $3.

Tree Hike. Stone Mountain Park, Confederate Hall Historical and Environmental Education Center. Learn to identify trees on this short hike. July 19, 26. 10-10:45 a.m. Highway 78 East, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5658. Admission, free; parking, $8.

Youth Fishing Derby. Brookside Office Park Lake. Children ages 5-12 are invited to test their fishing skills. Prizes will be awarded for the longest fish and the most caught. July 26. 8 a.m. East of GA 400 on Old Milton Pkwy., Alpharetta. 678-297-6140. Pre-register. Free.

Reptile Day. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Get up close and personal with reptiles and amphibians. Members of the Georgia Herpetological Society will be on hand to answer questions. July 26. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Free with museum admission. Adults, $15; students, $14; children 3-12, $13; under 3, free.

Bat Program. Chattahoochee Nature Center. A hands-on family program that educates about the importance of bats to the ecosystem. Try your luck with the nets in order to temporarily capture and investigate bats, and roast marshmallows. July 26. Arrival, 6-7 p.m. Departure, 9-10:30 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055, ext. 222. Individuals, $15; families, $55.

Guided Nature Walks. East Cobb Park. Wear walking shoes and bring a bottle of water for an approximately one-hour guided nature walk. Tours begin every 30 minutes. July 30. 9 a.m.-noon. 3322 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-528-8824. Free.

Lawrenceville Ghost Tours. Aurora Theatre. A costumed guide leads ghost tours through Downtown Lawrenceville. July 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26. 8:30 p.m. 128 Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. Reservations required. Adults, $12; children, $9.

Americana Fest. Tanglewood Farm. A patriotic celebration featuring pony rides, bluegrass music and hayrides. July 1-31. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 171 Tanglewood Dr., Canton. 770-667-6464. $9; hayride, $5.

Free Second Tuesdays at Imagine It! Imagine It! Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Sponsored by Target, admission to the museum is free. July 8. 1-7 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Free.

Scrapbook Expo. Gwinnett Center. See booths filled with everything an avid scrapbooker could ever want, see manufacturers demonstrating new products and services, and enter your scrapbooks into the “Page Layout” contest. Workshops cost extra. July 11-12. Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 951-734-4307. Adults, $6-$8/day; children under 13, free. Workshops, $16-$42/class.

Alpharetta Family Challenge. Alpharetta Community Center. Activities include a hot dog eating contest, three-legged race, potato sack race, a water balloon splash booth and an obstacle course. July 12. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 175 Roswell St., Alpharetta. 404-406-6964. Free.

Gwinnett Reads. Gwinnett Center. Features a selection from “Thirteen Moons” by Charles Frazier, acclaimed author of “Cold Mountain.” July 12. 6:30 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-978-5154.

Simon DTour Live! Town Center at Cobb, Discover Mills, Mall of Georgia. Includes live concerts, interactive games, contests and giveaways. Kate Voegele will perform at Discover Mills, All American Rejects will take the stage at the Mall of Georgia, and the performer for Town Center at Cobb has yet to be determined. Town Center at Cobb: July 18, 3-9 p.m. Discover Mills: July 19, 3-9 p.m. Mall of Georgia: July 20, noon-6 p.m. Town Center at Cobb: 400 Barrett Pkwy., Kennesaw. 770-424-9486. Discover Mills: 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 678-847-5000. Mall of Georgia: 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 678-482-8788. Free.

B*ATL – The 144th Anniversary of the Battle of Atlanta. Atlanta Neighborhoods. Week-end-long festivities include a gala dinner and house tour, a 5K run, van and walking tours, a re-creation of the frontlines with re-enactment soldiers and artillery, historic music concerts, dramatic performances and a six-hour storytelling bonanza. July 18-20. www.batlevent.org. Tour prices are $10-$15; Gala tickets are $45; 5K Run/Walk tickets are $17-$20; many of the demonstrations and storytelling events are free.

Family NightCrawler. Zoo Atlanta. Experience the Ford African Rain Forest at night while you learn about the monkeys and apes that call these habitats home. Wake up in the morning to a guided tour and more behind-the-scenes fun. July 19-20. 6 p.m.-10:30 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-9453. Pre-register. $48/person.

National Black Arts Festival. Various locations and times. Commemorating its 20th anniversary, the Black Arts Festival celebrates Africa through music, dance, art, theater, films and family events. July 18-27. For event locations and times, visit www.nbaf.org or call 404-730-7315. Cost ranges from free to $76.

Towne Lake Idol. Towne Lake Arts Center. Singing competition for ages 8 and up. Bring your song on a CD and costume (if necessary). There will be four nights of competition with 8 people auditioning each night, and a finale held on July 27. July 18-19, 25-27. 8 p.m. 6576 Commerce Pkwy., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. Audience, $5; participants, free.

Let Freedom Ring. The Youth Museum. Historical program in which children act out skits in costume that feature events leading up to the American Revolution. Also includes a Benjamin Franklin puppet show. Ages 6 and older. July 21-Aug. 1. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. 649 Cheatham Hill Dr., Marietta. 770-427-2563. $7.

Fourth Saturday Family Fun Days. Centennial Olympic Park. Interactive, entertaining and educational activities. Activities include street performers, musicians, workshops, crafts, concerts and local sports mascots. July’s theme is “It’s About Sports.” July 26. Noon-4 p.m. 265 Park Ave. West, NW, Atlanta. 404-222-7275. Free.

Summer Splash. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Enjoy a 6-mile float down the Chattahoochee River, followed by live music, wildlife programs, vendors, crafts and self-guided hikes. July 26. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 5862 Interstate Pkwy NE, Sandy Springs. 678-538-1241. Free.

Atlanta Reptile and Exotic Animal Show. Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. Features live animal presentations, reptile game shows, puppet shows, reptile breeders and wholesalers, and pet products and supplies. June 26-27. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. www.repticon.com. Adults, $8; children 5-12, $5; under 4, free.

Lasershow Spectacular. Stone Mountain Park. See neon laser lights, characters, stories, graphics and fireworks, all choreographed to music. Through Aug. 10. 9:30 p.m. Hwy. 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. Free; parking, $8.

Kennesaw Youth Sports Spectacular. Adams Park Baseball Complex. Try a hand at different sports and test your athletic skills at Kennesaw’s first sampling of the city’s diverse youth sports organizations. Enjoy interactive games, guest appearances and the Braves Around Town Team. July 26. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 2518 Park Dr., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free to the public.

Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Using books, finger-plays or crafts, storytellers share stories about the world of bees. Ages 3-5. July 2. 10-11 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $5; children 3-12, $2; under 2, free.

Children’s Garden Storybook Time. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Hear stories about flowers, bees, tadpoles and trees. July 2 and 16. 10-10:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Free with admission. Free with admission. Adults, $12; children 3-17, $9; under 3, free.

Tales for Toddlers. Bean Head Toys. Stories in the indoor treehouse. Ages 4 and under. July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. 10:30 a.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. Free.

Read It! Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Listen to Ms. Read It’s colorful stories. July 6, 13, 20, 27. 3 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Free with admission. $11; under 2, free.

The Big Bad, Little Red, Pig Show. Red Clay Theatre and Arts Center. “That Puppet Guy” combines two children’s stories for a mixed-up tale. July 12. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 3116 Main St., Duluth. 770-622-1777. $5.

The Zany Zoo. Red Clay Theatre and Arts Center. “That Puppet Guy” presents a wild and wooly animal show. July 19. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 3116 Main St., Duluth. 770-622-1777. $5.

Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Enjoy stories, crafts and songs. All ages. Sun., 3 p.m.; Tues., 11 a.m.; Thurs., 7 p.m. 515 N. McDonough St., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.

The Dragon King. Center for Puppetry Arts. This underwater fantasy based on Chinese folklore begins when a wise grandmother journeys to the bottom of the sea to seek answers from the Dragon King. Through July 13. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m. and noon; Sat., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.

Disney’s The Jungle Book. Towne Lake Arts Center. Musical adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s adventure story of Mowgli, a boy who is raised by wolves, returning to his village. July 9-Aug. 3. Sat., 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m.; Wed., 10 a.m. 6576 Commerce Pkwy., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $8.

The Little Mermaid. Kudzu Children’s Playhouse. Follow the Little Mermaid on her first journey to the top of the sea. July 10-Aug. 2. Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m. 10743 Alpharetta Hwy., Brannon Sq., Roswell. 770-594-1020. $8.

The Bremen Town Musicians. Center for Puppetry Arts. A madcap musical journey from the farm to the big city and back again when three old farm animals plan to win the Bremen Town Musicians contest and prove they can still be of use. July 15-27. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m. and noon; Sat., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.

Music Man. Blackwell Playhouse. The story of con man, Harold Hill, who plans to run away with the money he earns by pretending to be a music professor for a boys’ band, but falls in love with the town piano teacher in the process. Through July 19. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. 678-213-3311. Adults, $16; students, $14.

Oliver Twist. Lionheart Theatre. A musical adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic. July 17-20. Times vary. 10 Britt Ave., Norcross. 770-885-0425. Adults, $10; children under 11, $5.

Tom Thumb the Great. Georgia Shakespeare. When the king’s guards become befuddled over how to stop giants from invading, Tom Thumb rides in to save the day. July 18-Aug. 2. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m. July 22 and 29, 7 p.m.; 2-for-1 family nights. 4484 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta. 404-264-0020. $10-$12.

Dracula: The Undead. Blackwell Playhouse. An adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic novel, the production includes special effects, illusions and authentic costumes. Intended for children 13 and older due to graphic content. July 24-27, Aug. 1-2. 8 p.m. (and 3 p.m. on July 27). 3378 Canton Rd., Marietta. 678-213-3311. Adults, $16; students, $14.

The Wizard of Oz. The Legacy Theatre. An adaptation of the classic tale presented with the music and lyrics from the movie. July 25-Aug. 3. Tues.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Wed., Sat.-Sun., 3 p.m. 1175 Senoia Rd., Tyrone. 404-895-1473. Adults, $25; children under 13, $15.

Virtue Triumphs Over Villainy. Kudzu Family Playhouse. See if Purity Peabody can escape the clutches of the evil Silas Sickamore with the help of the heroic Tyrone Trueheart. Through July 26. Fri. and Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. 10743 Alpharetta Hwy., Roswell. 770-594-1020. $8-$10.

Sleeping Beauty. Center for Puppetry Arts. A re-telling of this classic features a fortune-telling frog, a royal trumpeter and two finicky chefs. July 29-Aug. 10. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m. and noon; Sat., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.  

FSU “Flying High” Circus. Callaway Gardens. For the 48th consecutive year, performers from Florida State University provide entertainment for the whole family under the circus tent on Robin Lake Beach. Mon. and Fri., 8 p.m.; Tues. and Thurs., 3:30 p.m.; Sat., 1:30 and 4 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m. Hwy. 18, Pine Mountain. 800-225-5292. Adults, $13; children, $6.50; under 6, free.

Mountain Dance and Folk Festival. Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place. A three-day showcase of the region’s best traditional and old-time musicians, ballad singers, mountain dance groups and cloggers. July 31-Aug. 2. 7 p.m. 2 S. Pack Sq., Asheville, NC. 828-257-4530. One-night: adults, $20; under 13, $10. Three-night pass: adults, $54; under 13, $24. 828-257-4530.

Mud and BBQ Sauce: U-Do-Raku and Barbeque. Hambridge Center. Enjoy a combination of great tasting barbecue and the ancient Japanese art of Raku Pottery. Enjoy a show by Georgia’s best potters and make-your-own pottery. July 12. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 105 Hambridge Court, Rabun Gap. 706-746-5718. Admission, free; buying and making pottery, prices vary.

Day Out with Thomas: The Great Discovery Tour. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Take a ride with Thomas, meet Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy storytelling, music, Legos and more. July 25-29 and July 31-Aug. 3. 226 Everett St., Bryson City, NC. 800-872-4681 (code T6). $18; under 3, free.

Bragg Jam Arts and Kids’ Festival. Ocmulgee Heritage Trail. Festival highlights include the Plein Air Paint Out, in which artists of all ages and skill levels can participate in a juried art contest, a Hannah Montana Lip-Synch contest, tree climbing lessons, a river blessing and tribal dance, live music, pet parade and more. July 26. Noon-6 p.m. Spring St. at Gray Hwy. 478-320-7861. Free.

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