Step into Marietta’s past with a guided ghost tour on Friday, September 26, 2025. Beginning at the William Root House, the walk covers downtown landmarks tied to legends and eerie tales. Local author Rosalind Bunn will lead the group, keeping the pace light while sharing stories that blend history with the supernatural.
The tour runs from 7 pm to 9 pm and is limited to 30 participants. Tickets are $50 per person, and every dollar benefits the Cobb Library Foundation. Expect an easy walking pace, a few spine-tingling stops, and plenty of historical detail. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and bringing a flashlight may add to the fun once the sun sets.
Beyond the thrills, the evening supports Cobb Library Foundation and its work throughout the county’s library system. By the time the final tale wraps up at the Reading Attic, you’ll have both chills and a deeper appreciation for Marietta’s history.
Date:
September 26, 2025
Time:
7 pm to 9 pm
Address:
William Root House (Tour Start)
80 N Marietta Pkwy NW
Marietta GA 30060 (Marietta)
Reading Attic (Tour End)
21 West Park Square
Marietta, GA 30060
Dashing Through the Square marks its tenth year with a festive 5K run or walk through historic Marietta Square. The course winds past handsome homes and the storefronts that make holiday window shopping very tempting after a finish line snack. This event uses electronic chip timing and is a Peachtree Road Race qualifying event, so those personal records truly count. Walkers and strollers are welcome, and the mood is brisk but friendly. Think early morning sparkle with a side of holiday cheer and plenty of photo moments.
Registration is open to all runners and walkers. The event features electronic chip timing for accurate results and is recognized as an official qualifier for the AJC Peachtree Road Race. For details and sign up information, visit the registration page.
Not in Marietta on race day or prefer to chart your own course. Join the virtual 5K and complete the distance on streets, parks, trails, or a treadmill. Map a personal route and complete the run or walk on Saturday December 20, 2025. Share race day photos using the hashtags #ΡΖΩDASH2025 and #PEARLDASH2025.
All participants receive a high quality race shirt and a commemorative medal. Award medals go to first and second place male and female finishers in the following age groups:
13 and under
14 to 29
30 to 39
40 to 49
50 and above
Event proceeds support youth enrichment programs and other initiatives that benefit Cobb County. The race is presented by The PEARL Foundation, Inc. in collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Rho Zeta Omega Chapter.
Expect a festive atmosphere around the Square and plan a little extra time for parking and bib pickup. The course and morning schedule make a great lead in to holiday errands and brunch nearby. Bring an extra layer for the start and a smile for the finish line photo.
Date:
December 20, 2025
Time:
Pre race warm up begins at 7:10 am.
The race starts at 7:30 am.
Address:
Marietta Square
Marietta GA
Registration:
Registration is available online at RaceRoster.com.
Cobb Foodie Week is back to celebrate all things delicious in Atlanta’s Sweet Spot. All week long, diners can unlock special savings, exclusive coupons, and prix fixe menus from more than 50 restaurants across Cobb County. It is the perfect chance to taste international flavors, revisit local favorites, and explore new spots that might become regular go-tos.
Smoked Chicken Tacos with pimento polenta, chipotle lime cream, red pepper, radish, and cilantro at Seed Restaurant & Bar
With the free Cobb Foodie Week Meal Deals Pass, food lovers can instantly access discounts via text and email. There are no apps to download, no passwords to remember, and no excuses for missing out on the week’s tastiest bargains. Each participating restaurant is putting its own spin on the celebration, so expect everything from sweet treats and hearty comfort food to craft brews and global bites.
Dirty Martini with Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives
To participate, simply sign up for the free digital pass at cobbfoodieweek.com, scroll through the lineup of participating restaurants, and start planning your week of eating. Participating locations include well-known favorites like Marlow’s Tavern, Seed Kitchen & Bar, The Melting Pot, and Pie Bar, as well as fresh finds such as Chioma’s African Cuisine, Jojo Fritay, and Pinch of Spice Indian Cuisine. From fine dining to quick bites, there is something for every appetite.
Forno San Marzano Pizza with fior di latte, prosciutto crudo, arugula, and extra virgin olive oil
Be sure to follow along on social media using the hashtags #CobbFoodieWeek and #CobbFoodie. Share your own finds and see what other diners are enjoying as the county lights up with tasty deals. This weeklong culinary celebration is one of the most anticipated foodie events of the year, and with so many options on the table, the only hard part will be choosing where to start.
Participating Restaurants in 2025:
1885 Grill Acworth
1885 Grill Kennesaw
Acres and Oak Kitchen
Antico Pizza
Big Shanty Smokehouse
Broken Anchor Winery
Burger 21
Camps Kitchen & Bar
Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop
Chioma’s African Cuisine
Cinco Mexican Cantina
Cozy Coop
Cuban Diner
FruiTea Bubbles Cafe, Inc.
Glenn’s Café
Good Kitchen + Market
Good Kitchen Smyrna
Green Coyote Cantina
HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern
IHOP Cobb Pkwy
IHOP Dallas Hwy
IHOP Delk Rd
Christopher’s Smyrna
Jeff’s Bagel Run
JimPa’s Catering
Jojo Fritay
Lolita’s Parlour
Marietta Perks
Marietta Proper
Marlow’s Tavern East Cobb
Marlow’s Tavern Kennesaw
Marlow’s Tavern Sandy Plains
Marlow’s Tavern Vinings
Mezza Luna Italian Restaurant
Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes
MTH Pizza
Muss & Turner’s
Nature’s Pick Market
Not As Famous Cookie Company
Nothing Bundt Cakes Kennesaw
Nothing Bundt Cakes Smyrna
Otter’s Chicken
Peach State Pizza
Pie Bar
Pinch of Spice Indian Cuisine
Pochino Italy
Press Waffle Co.
Round Trip Brewing Company
Sangster’s Café
Seed Kitchen & Bar
Smallcakes Cupcakery and Creamery
Sushiology
Sweet Living Bakery
The Melting Pot
Tin Lizzy’s Cantina
Tin Pin Game Bar
Tosca Blu
Two Birds Taphouse
US Cafe
Date:
September 6 to September 13, 2025
Time:
All day, during participating restaurant hours
For more information, please contact Cobb Travel & Tourism at info@travelcobb.org.
Kids are naturally curious, and the annual Cobb 911 Kids Expo gives them a safe way to explore one of the most important phone calls they could ever make. This free event is all about teaching children how to call 911, what happens after that call, and how dispatchers work to keep the county safe.
At the expo, kids can meet the friendly faces behind the phones, tour the emergency communications center, and get a close-up look at the mobile command vehicle. The event is designed to be interactive, with games like relays and spin-the-wheel challenges, safety-themed activities, and hands-on demonstrations. A highlight for many will be the chance to dispatch an officer to a simulated call and see the process in action.
The Cobb 911 Kids Expo has been growing since its launch in 2021, and now includes Cobb 911’s public safety partners and other county departments. Families can also watch a CPR demonstration and learn practical safety tips that are easy to remember in an emergency. Best of all, it’s free and open to the public, making it a fun Saturday morning stop for families with children of all ages.
Date:
September 6, 2025
Time:
10 am to noon
Address:
Cobb County 911
140 North Marietta Parkway
Marietta, GA 30060
For more information, please contact Cobb County 911 at (770) 499-3911
Rosati’s Pizza is a Chicago-style pizza place where the pizzas are made fresh daily, starting with dough prepared from scratch and baked in a traditional rotating pizza deck oven. Their sauce is crafted from a secret family recipe, blending vine-ripened tomatoes with herbs and spices for a tangy, flavorful kick. A signature cheese blend melts to a golden perfection, and hearty portions of toppings with every order.
Rosati’s Pizza has been nearly a century in the making. The story began in the late 1890s when the Rosati family started serving Italian favorites in New York before moving to Chicago. By 1927, Sam Rosati opened his own Italian restaurant, introducing early versions of what would later become one of Chicago’s most famous exports: pizza.
In 1964, the first Rosati’s Pizza opened its doors in a Chicago suburb, and from there, the brand grew through the hands of multiple Rosati family members. With each generation, the recipes and commitment to authentic Italian flavors were carried forward. Today, Rosati’s has expanded across the country, and now Marietta can finally experience that classic Chicago taste.
Customers can choose from four styles of Chicago pizza: the crispy thin crust, the hand-rolled double dough, the iconic deep dish, and the indulgent stuffed pizza. Gluten-free options are also available.
Their menu also features wings, fried ravioli, jalapeño poppers, and mozzarella sticks for starters. Pasta lovers can dig into hearty dishes like chicken parmigiana, baked lasagna, or penne alla Rosati with creamy alfredo sauce. Italian beef sandwiches, meatball subs, and chicken parmesan sandwiches round out the savory offerings. For dessert, diners can finish off with tiramisu, cannoli, or cinnamon sticks.
On Saturday, May 3, 2025, Rosati’s Pizza celebrated the grand opening of its location in Marietta. Located on Dallas Highway, the restaurant is serving up Chicago’s famous pizza styles along with hearty pasta dishes, loaded sandwiches, and sweet Italian treats. It’s an opportunity for locals to dig into a true taste of Chicago without leaving Marietta. Open for takeout and delivery only, with no indoor seating available.
Address:
Rosati’s Pizza
2650 Dallas Hwy #210
Marietta, GA 30064
The North Georgia State Fair: A Celebration of Fun, Thrills, and Tradition
The annual North Georgia State Fair attracts an estimated 365,000 people every year from North Georgia and neighboring states. The fair features live music, free attractions and shows, blue ribbon competitions, live farm and exotic animals, talented performers and dancers, fun food, and rides on the Great James H. Drew Exposition – one of the largest carnival midways in the U.S. The fair also offers free concerts with big names hitting the stage each year.
Fun and Entertainment:
The North Georgia State Fair features exhilarating rides, colorful games, and mouthwatering treats. From heart-pounding roller coasters to enchanting Ferris wheels, the fair’s amusement rides offer endless thrills and laughter for adventure seekers. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the fair also includes a wide range of family-friendly rides and attractions.
As one of the largest and most anticipated fairs in the state, this annual event draws visitors from near and far.The fair showcases a delightful blend of classic attractions and modern entertainment.
A Food Lover’s Paradise:
No fair experience is complete without trying some of the delicious fair foods. The North Georgia State Fair offers a variety of savory delights and sweet treats that range from traditional corn dogs and cotton candy to more innovative creations like the deep fried candy bars.
Live Entertainment and Performances:
Entertainment takes center stage at the North Georgia State Fair, with a lineup of shows, live performances, and musical concerts. Visitors can witness awe-inspiring shows, enjoy live music, and be mesmerized by the fair’s diverse variety of entertainment.
The North Georgia State Fair offers a memorable and thrilling experience that has become a favorite part of the fall season.
Dates:
September 18 through 28, 2025
2025 Attractions:
Lady Houdini (New in 2025) Lady Houdini, also known as Kristen Johnson, is no magician’s assistant. She is an escape artist who has performed thousands of daring feats, broken Harry Houdini’s record for the most water escapes, and is currently the only woman in the world attempting the water torture cell. Showtimes: Mon–Fri: 6:30 & 8:30 PM Sat/Sun: 2:30, 5:30, & 8:30 PM
Strolling Piano (New in 2025) A moving musical act that combines the elegance of a pianist with the fun of a roaming show. This fully mobile, self-contained piano will be rolling through the fairgrounds daily. Showtimes: Daily at 5:00, 7:00, & 9:00 PM (each show runs 45 minutes)
American Motor Drome (New in 2025) Step inside the Wall of Death, a vintage thrill show featuring motorcycle daredevils who ride along a 30-foot-high vertical wooden cylinder. Expect acrobatics, stunts, and heart-pounding action. Showtimes: Daily on the hour
Fireguy Show With over 20 years of experience, Fireguy heats up the fair with jaw-dropping fire eating, flames, and light tricks that are guaranteed to surprise and entertain. Showtimes: Mon–Fri: 6:00, 8:00, & 10:00 PM Sat/Sun: 3:30, 6:00, 7:30, & 9:30 PM
Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Paddling Porkers Cheer on celebrity pigs like Britney Spareribs and Lindsay Slowham as they race for the Oreo prize. These little athletes even paddle their way into fans’ hearts. Showtimes: Mon–Fri: 5:30, 7:30, & 9:30 PM Sat/Sun: 1:30, 3:30, 6:30, & 9:30 PM
Ready-Go-Dog Show This show brings together champion Frisbee dogs, diving dogs, and even the world’s highest box jump dog. After the show, fans can meet the four-legged stars in person. Showtimes: Mon–Fri: 6:00 & 9:00 PM Sat/Sun: 12:30, 4:30, & 7:30 PM
North Georgia Animals Petting Barn Located at the south entrance of the fairgrounds, this barn offers the chance to meet horses, goats, cows, rabbits, llamas, ponies, and more. Hours: Open daily during fair hours
Zerbini Family Circus (New in 2025) Under a 1,200-seat Big Top, the Zerbini Family Circus delivers acrobatics, aerialists, clowns, jugglers, and more in a dazzling family-run show. Showtimes: Mon–Fri: 6:30 & 8:30 PM Sat/Sun: 2:30, 5:30, & 8:30 PM
Lew-E’s Comedy Circus (New in 2025) This lively show features juggling, magic, music, and comedy, with plenty of audience participation to keep the laughs rolling. Showtimes: Mon–Fri: 5:30, 7:30, & 9:00 PM Sat/Sun: 3:30, 5:30, & 7:30 PM
Oscar the Robot (New in 2025) A witty robotic entertainer who roams the fairgrounds, keeping crowds laughing with quick comebacks and amusing antics. Showtimes: Mon–Fri: 5:00 & 8:00 PM Sat/Sun: 2:00, 5:00, & 8:00 PM (each show lasts 90 minutes)
Benjamin Jackson Hypnotist Show Benjamin Jackson’s comedy hypnosis show blends audience participation with hilarious skits that will leave crowds in stitches. Showtimes: Mon–Fri: 8:00 & 9:30 PM Sat: 6:00, 8:00, & 10:00 PM Sun: 5:00, 7:00, & 9:00 PM No 8:00 PM Show 9/18 & 9/23 No 5:00 PM Show 9/21
Peter Hart – Atlanta Puppeteer Peter Hart, a master puppeteer with international awards, brings his skillful performances to the Georgia Grown Exhibit Hall. Showtimes: Daily on the hour
Eudora Farms Petting Zoo A hands-on experience featuring exotic animals like zebras, lemurs, wallabies, and even camel rides. A perfect chance for kids and adults alike to learn and interact. Hours: Open daily during fair hours
2025 Schedule:
Thursday, September 18
Gates Open at 4 pm
Opening Day: Free Admission
$25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
North Georgia State Fair Beauty Pageant
406 Freestyle Motocross, 7 pm & 9 pm
Friday, September 19
Gates Open at 4 pm
Senior Day/Heroes Day
Senior Day: Free admission all day for seniors 55 and older.
Heroes Day: All active, reserve or retired military veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, and healthcare workers are admitted free with valid identification.
$30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
406 Freestyle Motocross: 7 pm & 9 pm
Saturday, September 20
Gates Open at 10 am
Family Fun Day
10 am to 11 am Free Admission & Free Rides (1 hour only)
$35 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person) sold only until 5 pm (good until close)
406 Freestyle Motocross: 5 pm, 7 pm, & 9 pm
Sunday, September 21
Gates Open at 12:30 pm
Family Day
$1 off admission with church bulletin
School Special 12:30 – 2 pm. Free admission & free rides for students (must present ticket included in brochure/digital)
$30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
406 Freestyle Motocross: 5 pm, 7 pm, & 9 pm
Monday, September 22
Gates Open at 4 pm
$20 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
406 Freestyle Motocross: 7 pm & 9 pm
Tuesday, September 23
Gates Open at 4 pm
$25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
Teacher Tuesday: Free admission for teachers and all school district employees with staff ID
Special Populations Night
King And Queen of the Fair Special Needs Pageant at 7 pm
Wednesday, September 24
Gates Open at 4 pm
$25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
Derby Night: Kids Power Wheels Derby at 7 pm and Demolition Derby at 8 pm ($5000 prize)
Little Roy and Lizzy Show at 6 pm
Thursday, September 25
Gates Open at 4 pm
$25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
College Night: Free Admission With Valid College I.D
Full Throttle Monster Trucks at 7 pm and 9 pm, Pit Party at 5 pm with Bigfoot, American Scout, Funky Monkey, and Powertrain
Friday, September 26
Gates Open at 4 pm
$30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
American Bull Riders Tour at 8 pm
Mutton Busting at 7 pm
Food Drive: Bring 5 non-perishable goods (must not be expired) and receive 1 free admission.
Saturday, September 27
Gates Open at 10 am
Family Fun Day
10 am to 11 am free admission & free rides
$35 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person) sold until 5 pm (good until close)
American Bull Riders Tour at 8 pm
Mutton Busting at 7 pm
Food Drive: Bring 5 non-perishable goods (must not be expired) and receive 1 free admission.
Sunday, Sept. 28
Gates Open at 12:30 pm
Last Blast!
School Special 12:30 pm to 2 pm
Free admission & free rides for students (must have ticket distributed in schools)
$30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
American Bull Riders Tour at 6 pm
Mutton Busting at 5 pm
Bring 5 non-perishables can good items (must not be expired) and receive 1 free admission.
Gate Admission:
$15 admission.
Seniors age 55 & up $10
Children 10 and under are free.
Ride tickets are $1.25 each, $20 for 21 tickets, $50 for 55 tickets and $100 for 120 tickets.
All rides require more than one ticket.
Ride tickets are cash, card, or tap to pay.
Parking is free.
ATM machines are located on the midway.
Most vendors inside the park accept cash or cards.
Hours:
Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
Friday, September 19, 2025 from 4 pm to Midnight
Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 10 am to Midnight
Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 12:30 pm to 10 pm
Monday, September 22, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
Wednesday, September 24, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
Friday, September 26, 2025 from 4 pm to Midnight
Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 11 am to Midnight
Sunday, September 28, 2025 from 12:30 pm to 10 pm
No entry after 9 pm Sunday through Thursday
No entry after 10 pm Friday and Saturday
Please take note of the following policies that will be in effect during the fair:
Youth Attendance Policy: Individuals under the age of 17 must be accompanied by a parent after 6 pm daily.
Clear Bag Policy: For security reasons and to expedite entry, all bags brought into the fair must be clear and not exceed dimensions of 12” x 6” x 12”. Also permitted is the use of one-gallon resealable clear plastic freezer bags and small clutch purses no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”. Diaper bags are allowed but will be searched and tagged.
Gate Entry Policy: Entry will not be permitted after 9 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and after 10 pm on Friday and Saturday.
Address:
Jim Miller Park
2245 Callaway Road
Marietta, GA 30008
Heads up for fair traffic near Jim R. Miller Park:
All fair traffic will be routed to County Services Parkway.
Eastbound Al Bishop Drive will close to through traffic each day starting one hour before the fair opens. (That means no turning onto Al Bishop from Callaway Road.)
Westbound Al Bishop Drive will have two lanes open to help move incoming fair traffic more smoothly.
Catching an Uber or Lyft? Pick-up/drop-off will be at the Cobb Safety Village, 1220 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta.
Contact Information:
Phone: (770) 423-1330, (770) 528-8989 after September 4
Few events signal the start of fall quite like a fair imbued with the scent of cotton candy, the roar of rollercoasters and the halogen glow of old-fashioned carnival booths. This year, autumn in Cobb County begins the same way it has for years, with the start of the North Georgia State Fair. For 11 glorious days in September, a local tradition… Read More…
From 1895 to Today: The Remarkable History of the North Georgia State Fair
From horse-drawn arrivals to headline concerts, the North Georgia State Fair has seen it all. What began in 1895 as a modest local fair has transformed over the decades into one of Georgia’s biggest annual events. Officially launched in 1921 as the Cobb County Fair, it reflected a time when most homes in the county didn’t yet have electricity or indoor plumbing, and many of the guests still arrived on horseback.
The fair’s history hasn’t been without detours. Ownership changes, venue moves, and global conflicts paused the event at times, with World War II shutting things down entirely for several years. In 1950, it returned with new energy and a new name: the North Georgia State Fair.
The decades that followed brought big growth. The fair moved to its 115-acre permanent home in 1966, expanded from six to ten days in 1986, and by 1989 was drawing major stars like Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley, and Blake Shelton to the stage. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the grounds took on a new role as a testing and vaccination site, showing once again how central the space is to county life.
Now in its 93rd year, the fair continues to evolve, still carrying forward its agricultural beginnings while delivering new rides, live music, and entertainment for thousands each fall.
Event organizer’s contact information:
Phone:
(770) 423-1330 through September 4
(770) 528-8989 after September 4
Based on career success, chart performance, awards, and long-term influence, here’s a ranking of the 10 most popular artists who have played at the North Georgia State Fair, starting with 10 and counting down to the biggest star at number 1:10. Trace Adkins
A longtime country mainstay with deep vocals and hits like “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk.”
9. Chris Young
Broke out from Nashville Star and delivered multiple No. 1 country singles over the last decade.
8. Scotty McCreery
The American Idol winner built a loyal fan base and scored several chart-toppers, including “Five More Minutes.”
7. Loretta Lynn
A true country legend, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, and one of the most influential women in the genre.
6. Jake Owen
Well-known for radio favorites like “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” he’s maintained steady popularity.
5. Little Big Town
Grammy-winning vocal group with crossover hits such as “Girl Crush” and “Pontoon.”
4. Lady A (formerly Lady Antebellum)
One of the top country groups of the 2000s and 2010s, famous for “Need You Now.”
3. Blake Shelton
Massive country star with chart dominance and mainstream exposure from The Voice.
2. Chris Janson
A modern country radio favorite, though not quite on Shelton or Bryan’s level in terms of crossover reach.
1. Luke Bryan
One of country’s biggest superstars, known for filling arenas and topping charts with dozens of hits.
A New Chapter for Chef Brian So and Sommelier Daniel Crawford
In October of 2025, Spring 2nd Branch will open its doors, bringing the flavors of authentic Korean cuisine to Marietta. This new restaurant is the latest project from Michelin-starred Chef Brian So and Sommelier Daniel Crawford, the duo behind the acclaimed Spring Restaurant. Their original concept was the first restaurant in Cobb County, and the first outside the Atlanta perimeter, to receive a Michelin star. Now, they they have turned their focus to Korean food, taking inspiration from the dishes Chef So grew up eating.
Spring 2nd Branch is not a Korean BBQ spot. Instead, the menu focuses on classic Korean dishes like bubbling stews, comforting soups, flavorful noodles, and satisfying stir-fries. Guests can enjoy everything from dumplings and seafood pancakes to spicy pork stir-fry, oxtail braises, cold buckwheat noodles, and steaming bowls of silken tofu stew. Many of the offerings are tied to cultural traditions, from celebratory holiday dishes to casual street food favorites.
The restaurant is walk-in only with no reservations and open seven days a week for both lunch and dinner. The 1,700-square-foot dining room is paired with a 1,000-square-foot climate-controlled covered patio, giving diners plenty of room to enjoy a meal in the heart of Marietta Square.
To complement the food, Spring 2nd Branch features traditional Korean drinks such as makgeolli (rice wine), soju (a clear and colorless distilled alcoholic beverage), and popular Korean beers like Cass, Terra, and Kloud. The beverage menu also highlights whiskey, wine, and cocktails that bridge Korean and American influences. Sommelier Daniel Crawford’s expertise ensures that guests will have thoughtful pairings for every dish.
Address:
Spring 2nd Branch
113 Church Street
Marietta, GA 30060
Marietta’s most mysterious night out is returning this fall, and it comes with coffee, s’mores, and plenty of legendary creatures. Coffee, Campfires, and Cryptids1 will take over Atherton Square on Friday, September 12, 2025, starting at 6 pm. Hosted by the City of Marietta’s Parks, Recreation & Facilities Department, this award-winning event shines a light on the strange side of Georgia folklore.
Guests will gather around a glowing campfire to hear stories of Bigfoot sightings in the North Georgia mountains, sea monsters near Savannah, and chilling tales of the Wendigo2 and Mothman3. For those curious about the infamous Skunk Ape4, this is the night to see if the stories hold up. The evening blends storytelling, fun activities, and a few shivers down the spine.
Attendees can sip on coffee or hot chocolate from Cool Beans or enjoy a beverage from one of the local restaurants. The Reading Attic will be on hand with folklore-inspired finds, and the Marietta History Center will share resources about local legends. In addition to storytelling, the night includes crafts, vendors, and even a screening to set the mood.
This event is free and family-friendly, making it the perfect outing for fans of tall tales, eerie myths, and a good marshmallow roast. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and their best campfire curiosity. Atherton Square, situated between the Marietta History Center, the Marietta Welcome Center, and the former Red Hare Brewing Company’s alley, sets the perfect backdrop for a night that blends mystery with fun.
Date:
September 12, 2025
Time:
6 pm to 9 pm
Admission:
Free
Address:
Atherton Square Park
4 Depot Street
Marietta, GA 30060
For more information, please contact the City of Marietta Parks, Recreation & Facilities Department at 770-794-5601
Know Your Cryptids
Cryptids are creatures whose existence is rumored or claimed but not scientifically proven. These legendary beings are subjects of folklore, cultural stories, and anecdotal evidence, with examples like Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster.
Wendigo is a malevolent creature or evil spirit from North American First Nations folklore, particularly among Algonquian peoples, that embodies greed, excess, and cannibalism. It is depicted as a gaunt, skeletal, and emaciated humanoid with an insatiable hunger for human flesh.
Mothman is a winged, cryptid human-like creature with large, red, glowing eyes. The legend claims the creature was seen gliding, not flapping its wings, and was often connected to premonitions of disaster.
Skunk Ape is described as a large, bipedal, ape-like creature with shaggy, reddish-brown fur that inhabits the forests and swamplands. It is often considered a Southern equivalent to Bigfoot or Sasquatch and is known for its foul, skunk-like odor.
The Cobb County School Calendar for the 2025 to 2026 school year begins on Monday, August 4, 2025 and ends on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. The start date is three days later than last year, and the end date is 1 day earlier than last year.
School holidays:
First Day of School – August 4, 2025
Labor Day – September 1, 2025
Fall Break – September 22 – 26, 2025
Election Day, Student Holiday/Staff Workday – November 4, 2025
Thanksgiving Holidays – November 24 – 28, 2025
Winter Holidays – December 22, 2025 to January 6, 2026
Martin Luther King Jr Day – January 19, 2026
Winter Break – February 16 – 20, 2026
Spring Break – April 6 – 10, 2026
Last Day of School – May 20, 2026
School Calendar Guidelines and Notes:
State law requires that students are in school 180 days or its equivalent. Each year, school districts are given four “emergency days” they can use for a variety of purposes. Many districts have been building those days into their calendars. In Cobb County, there are 174 days scheduled for students, and 186 days scheduled for teachers. The first semester includes 88 school days (94 for teachers) and ends prior to Winter Holidays. Second semester includes 86 school days (89 for teachers), and ends prior to Memorial Day. Fall Break typically takes place during the last full week in September. Thanksgiving Break begins on the Monday before the fourth Thursday in November (Thanksgiving Day). Winter Break begins on the third Monday in February (Presidents Day). Spring Break begins on the first Monday in April, providing consistency with the Marietta City School District and many other metro Atlanta school systems. The school year ends on a Wednesday to provide enough time to schedule graduation ceremonies.
Change Log:
Approved December 13, 2023
Updated February 20, 2025
Added Digital Learning Days on August 18, October 13, December 2, and March 2.
Added Elementary/Middle School Conference Week from Tuesday, October 14 through Friday, October 17 (Early release for elementary and middle schools only)
Added Early Release Days for all levels on December 18 & 19, and May 18, 19, & 20
The Marietta City School Calendar for the 2025 to 2026 school year begins on Friday, August 1, 2025 and ends on Friday, May 22, 2026.
School Holidays:
First Day of School – August 1, 2025
Labor Day – September 1, 2025
Fall Break – September 22 – 26, 2025
Thanksgiving Break – November 24 – 28, 2025
Holiday Break – December 22, 2025 to January 6, 2026
Martin Luther King Jr Day – January 19, 2026
Winter Break – February 16 – 20, 2026
Spring Break – April 6 – 10, 2026
Last Day of School – May 22, 2026
School Calendar Guidelines and Notes:
State law requires that students are in school 180 days or its equivalent. Each year, school districts are given four “emergency days” they can use for a variety of purposes. Many districts have been building those days into their calendars. In Marietta City Schools, there are 178 days scheduled for students, and 188 days scheduled for teachers. The first semester includes 90 school days (97 for teachers) and ends prior to Winter Holidays. Second semester includes 88 school days (91 for teachers), and ends prior to Memorial Day. Fall Break typically takes place during the last full week of September. Winter Break begins on the third Monday in February (Presidents Day). Spring Break begins on the first Monday in April, providing consistency with the Cobb County School District and many other metro Atlanta school systems.
Few events signal the start of fall quite like a fair imbued with the scent of cotton candy, the roar of rollercoasters and the halogen glow of old-fashioned carnival booths. This year, autumn in Cobb County begins the same way it has for years, with the start of the North Georgia State Fair. For 11 glorious days in September, a local tradition… 
