Atlanta Parnt_OCTOBER 2024

Atlanta Parent

Carriage rides & pumpkin picking at The Dillard House Farm and Resort.

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Publisher’s Note / 8 Good Stuff / 9 For the Fridge / 70

Kids and Politics

The November election is an opportunity to teach kids about respectful discourse, values and civics.

Countdown to Halloween

Get ready for a month of celebrating, with seasonal crafts, recipes, games and activities kids will love.

Too Old to Trick-or-Treat?

How to know when your kids have outgrown trick-or-treating.

Understanding Dyslexia

The truth behind eight common myths, how to recognize the signs and support learning. Plus, Georgia’s new school screening for dyslexia.

The Music Class® is an early childhood music program designed to unleash the musical potential of children from birth to age six. Parent+c hild classes feature award winning music, engaging activities and anytime-access to the music on our app. Classes start November 9–15. Join the fun this winter at one of our 10 convenient locations. themusicclass.com/atlanta 770-645-5578

Bringing Learning to Life

• Private non-parochial education for infants through 8th grade

• Nurturing environment featuring outstanding teachers, small class sizes with assistants, 1-to 1-iPad environment, hands-on academics, STEM, frequent eld trips and leadership opportunities.

• Offering After-school, Competitive Sports, Robotics, Science Olympiad and Drama.

PUBLISHER Liz White lwhite@atlantaparent.com

ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Genie Lockeretz EXECUTIVE glockeretz@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Kaylee Gahagan EXECUTIVE kgahagan@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Sonya Jefferson EXECUTIVE sjefferson@atlantaparent.com

STAFF WRITER Emily Webb and DIGITAL ewebb@atlantaparent.com CONTENT CREATOR

CONTENT Mary Williams PROJECT MANAGER

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

ADMINISTRATIVE Amanda Allen ASSISTANT

MARKETING Felicia Barman MOM

Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699. Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge throughout the metro area and as a digital issue at atlantaparent.com. Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission. © Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2024 Sign Up For Our e-Newsletter at AtlantaParent.com Like Us on FACEBOOK

Years of Atlanta Parent 41

Our passion is providing our readers quality information they can trust. We have loved serving Atlanta families for the past 41 years and look forward to continuing to be the trusted source for all things parenting.

A Family Affair

Atlanta Parent was started by husband-and-wife team Mark and Liz White in 1983 when their daughter Laura was a baby. Fast forward to 2024, Laura, now a mom of two, is the Associate Publisher. “It’s so special to look back at past issues and see how much Atlanta Parent has changed and where we can take things in the future,” says Laura. “Expanding our digital presence has been a big part of my vision for the publication.”

Everything Parenting

You can always count on being the most informed parent with the best info!

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Publisher’s Note

For my family, anticipation is the best thing about October! We look forward to Halloween — enjoying the decorations that appear on our street, school celebrations, and the fun of planning our costumes. At some point, my kids will grow out of trick-or-treating, but for now they still love it. I’m not ready to give up the tradition yet.

Along with at-home fun, there are so many ways for Atlanta families to get in the spirit of Halloween — and at every “scare” level. For not-too-spooky fun, visit a pumpkin patch, go to Boo at the Zoo or trick-or-treat around town. If you’re looking for next-level-scary, go on a ghost tour, visit a haunted house or see a spine-chilling show. Don’t miss the Halloween Happenings in our Family Fun Guide for a complete list of things to do.

If Halloween isn’t your thing, don’t worry — fall brings plenty of other family-friendly activities. There are dozens of festivals, from the Atlanta Fair at Turner Field to Oktoberfest in Helen. Catch “Pinocchio” at Center for Puppetry Arts, “The Lion King” at the Fox, or one of the new immersive exhibits. Don’t miss seeing fall colors at their best, right here in the city or at a state park.

In case you haven’t noticed, it’s election season! Your kids are probably seeing and hearing a lot about the election, whether on the news, in advertisements or online. Now’s a good time to start a conversation about democracy, respectful discourse and the election process. Find some resources to help you get started in this month’s issue. No matter how you vote, be sure to head to the polls in November. You’ll be setting an example that will help your kids become future informed voters.

October is Dyslexia Awareness Month; in our story on page 20, we take a look at some of the common myths and misconceptions about the disorder. I learned a few things I didn’t know! This year, Georgia’s dyslexia screening law for public schools went into effect — it’s aimed at early diagnosis and will have a positive effect on early intervention for students. You’ll also find information on early warning signs and the support dyslexic kids need to succeed.

We’d love to hear about your family’s favorite October activities — let us know via Facebook, Instagram or email.

Associate Publisher

StUff G oo d

by Emily Webb

THINGS WE LIKE FUN WITH

Build On It

Introduce your child to woodworking with the Dan&Darci Woodworking Station. The four-in-one station includes a jigsaw, lathe, drill and sander for tons of projects. The instruction manual and project booklet help kids grow their carpentry skills as they learn the basics and build a wooden airplane. Available at amazon.com for $99.99.

Sew Much Fun

Create your own adorable pals with Lakeshore Learning’s Sew Easy! Stuffed Animals – Complete Set. This set includes everything kids need to get hooked on sewing with precut felt, super-safe needles, stuffing and more. Sew a sloth, a penguin and a llama and their cute accessories. Available at lakeshorelearning.com for $39.99.

Out of This World

Young astronauts will love exploring the greatness of outer space with Bill Nye’s Virtual Reality Space Science Kit: VR Space Lab from Abacus Brands. Climb aboard Bill Nye’s spaceship for a learning experience with VR and AR experiences, projects and more. The free app is compatible with Google Play and Apple iOS. Available at abacusbrands.com for $69.99.

Cooking Kids

Explore the charcuterie trend with young chefs with the Playful Chef: Deluxe Charcuterie Kit from MindWare. Use the wooden board, shaped cutters and more to create adorable and delicious charcuterie boards for any occasion. The kit includes three kid-safe knives, kid-sized utensils and recipe cards and a pamphlet for themed holiday tray ideas. Available at mindware.orientaltrading.com for $39.95.

Rock On

Bring the fun of mineral hunting home with National Geographic’s Break Open Geodes Science Kit. The hands-on kit makes science fun with cracking open the geodes and a learning guide featuring education about geodes, volcanoes and gemstones. The kit also contains safety goggles and display stands. Available at amazon.com with kits of four, five or 10 for $19.99-$39.99.

What Politics Can Teach Our Kids

by Christa Melnyk Hines

From yelling newsroom pundits and vigorous dinner party debates to divisive Facebook exchanges, ‘tis the season when there’s virtually no escape from politics. Your kids may come home with questions about opinions overheard at school or elsewhere. From a parenting perspective, the democratic process — and political shenanigans — provides plenty of fodder for teaching kids lessons in independent thinking, respectful discourse, values and civics.

n Nurture independent thinkers

Take advantage of the political process to help your children learn to think for themselves. Ask your children open-ended questions to hear their point of views.

“Find out what they’re thinking. What you want to do is stimulate their analytic, natural human curiosity,” says Dr. Fran Walfish, a child and family psychotherapist and author of “The Self Aware Parent: Resolving Conflict and Building a Better Bond with Your Child.”

n Watch the speeches and debates together

Ask your child who he thinks is telling the truth based on body language or who seems more respectful during a debate.

Whether you agree or not, ask: “Why do you feel that way? How would you solve the problem?” Share your opinions with your children by prefacing your comments with “I feel” or “I think” and ask questions like: “I wonder how he’ll make that happen? What do you think? How would you make it fair if you were president?”

n Avoid anger

As hard as it may be, try to refrain from making judgmental comments or calling candidates with whom you disagree colorful names.

“Shouting at the TV, or at one another, presents a very negative example of responding to conflicting opinions,” says Mary Jane McKittrick, author of the Boomer and Halley children’s series, including “Boomer and Halley: Election Day.”

n Model respectful dialogue

Not all parents agree on politics, but what matters is how they discuss the issues in front of their children without raising a child’s anxiety. Make ground rules with your spouse before engaging in the discussion: No interrupting, take turns listening and no put-downs, insults or blaming. And, if you come to an impasse, agree to disagree.

“I would love for parents to respect each other’s point of views. I would also hope that they will respect their child’s point of view,” Walfish says. “Be able to tolerate differences. We still love each other, and I can tolerate you having powerfully different feelings than mine.”

If you find yourself getting drawn into a heated argument around the table with loved ones, keep your cool and suggest you pick up the conversation at another time.

n Play nice — in politics?!

Political rhetoric may be difficult for your child to comprehend, but behavior in politics can often parallel real-life situations your child can relate to about how we should treat each other and who we can trust.

“Here we are: two political figures. They’re going to say their beliefs right out front, but wouldn’t it be nice if that was all they were doing,” Walfish says. “Instead what they’re doing is using put-downs, criticisms, willing to go forward at all costs to win.”

Perhaps the vindictive nature of politics will never change, but parents can use examples of how politicians conduct themselves to teach values about what it means to win honorably, treat others with respect and be a trustworthy friend. For example, on the playground, a child might promise your child that he can have the ball next, but then passes the ball to an ally or continues to hog the ball. Even a young child understands that the other child’s actions are unfair.

“A good friend is someone who treats you right all of the time. And that’s what we’re looking for in politics,” Walfish says. “And a lot of times people will say anything to get what they want, which is to win. Our job is to try to figure out who’s telling the truth, who’s going to deliver on the goods.”

n Civics 101

Talk to your kids about the democratic process. Take your child to the voting booth and follow the results on election night together to help her see the election process in action and the connection between your vote and why it matters.

Explain that politicians are public servants and they usually enter the political process in an attempt to make a difference in the lives of citizens.

“Parents can offer examples from their lives to illustrate giving to others as a positive way to explain politics,” McKittrick says. “After all, politics exist in our families, communities, schools and workplaces — not just at the ballot box.”

Politically Informed Kids: The 2024 Election

by Emily Webb

It’s an election year! It’s important for you to do your due diligence and exercise your right to vote. But how do you explain the news, the ads and the messages to your kids?

Reading can be an important learning tool for your kids about how our democracy works. Syl Sobel’s “Presidential Elections and Other Cool Facts” has been answering

Q:What originally inspired you to write this book?

I was an attorney, and I used to be a newspaper reporter. I like to write. I was the director of publications at the Federal Judicial Center. My children were little at the time, so I told them I made books for the government for a living. One day, I was reading the “Washington Post” kids’ page with my daughter about how the U.S. government works. My daughter was in kindergarten, and she asked, “Can you make a book for me about this?” I wrote about the three branches of government and what each one does, and I put a cover on it and gave it to her. She was delighted. When I told my co-workers about it, a colleague said, “You might be able to get that published.” After many queries, Barron’s was interested. Before it came out, my younger daughter said, “What are you going to write for me?” She wanted a book about presidents, but since a lot of books cover the presidents, I asked her if I could write about the presidential election process instead. My kids gave me ideas, and it was so fun to work with them on the project. It was a family activity.

Q:What do you enjoy about updating “Presidential Elections and Other Cool Facts?”

As a book about presidents, every four years, I’ve got to add the new president. There are also new events and facts – the oldest president

many questions kids (and maybe even you!) have about the presidency and elections for more than 20 years. Now, there’s an updated edition that includes new facts to help children learn more about their country and how it operates.

Atlanta Parent talked to Sobel about how to encourage your child to learn, writing a book and more.

changed; we had the first president of color. I also get comments from readers suggesting changes and edits. I can tweak it and make it a little better, so it’s improving along the way. It’s always a fun process. As a writer, there’s always things you look at and want to change.

Q:What advice do you have for parents who don’t know where to start with talking to their children about the government?

Read my book is the first thing that jumps to mind! The book explains it in ways children can understand, and adults from other countries applying for citizenship also use my books. My book deals more with the process than politics: what the president does, the responsibilities, the political process. With any conversation, it’s important to be accurate. My book is helpful with describing the process accurately.

Q:Why is it important for parents to encourage children to learn about the government?

It’s important to have informed citizens. If you’ve got a kid who’s interested in politics, look for opportunities to explore and peruse that interest. Go to museums. Go to libraries. The kids that are 8, 9, 10 now will be in their 20s soon and will be able to vote. There is misinformation

about the government and who does what. That misinformation could be rectified if people were more informed about the political process and the government. If there isn’t civics education in school, as their parents, encourage children to learn. The next generation of citizens needs to understand how the government works, so they can know what their role is and understand their opportunity to contribute.

Q:How does talking with your child change depending on the age of the child?

Try to understand what children can relate to and what examples would make sense to them. In a classroom, you can decide if you want storytime or drawing time to be the next activity. You raise your hand to vote, and that’s an election. You’ve made a choice. Children can relate to that. Any time you work with children, you have to understand how children think. Listen to their questions. In my book, I explain what the vice president does and the order of succession. Children want to know who’s in charge: what happens if something happens to my mommy? What happens if something happens to my teacher? What happens if something happens to the president? It’s a question children always have, so I am putting myself in the child’s place. I use this as a parent and a writer: What is the next question the child is going to ask? Also, ask your children if they have questions. Then, ask questions to see if they understand the concepts.

The next generation of citizens needs to understand how the government works, so they can know what their role is and understand their opportunity to contribute.

Atlanta Parent’s Best Family Businesses

Atlanta Parent’s Best Family

MESH moms provides in-person support and resources to new and expecting moms. As an alternative to the many virtual-only mothers’ communities, MESH moms offers a range of activities and events, including playgroups organized around children’s ages and educational workshops on topics such as breastfeeding, sleep training, and postpartum mental health.

Members also have access to a private online community and WhatsApp chat groups where they can connect with other local moms to connect, share advice and receive support. In addition, MESH moms offers Postpartum Pods which are led by a Postpartum Doula and provide a small group learning experience for support and connection in the three months after birth.

Atlanta Parent’s Best Family Businesses Atlanta Parent’s Best Family Businesses

The University System of Georgia’s eCampus administers online core courses, high-demand degrees, and post-secondary credentials through 21 public colleges and universities. The USG FreeCampus provides no cost college preparatory and course content review. These free, non-credit bearing courses are perfect for High School students preparing for dual enrollment or college admissions, college-bound students wanting to learn more about academic majors, and adult and returning students wanting to take a refresher course before college enrollment. USG eCore provides online courses covering the first two years of a public college education in Georgia, while eMajor offers fully online bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Organizational Leadership, Nursing, and Information Technology. All courses are taught by faculty members from across 21 SACSCOC-accredited public institutions of higher education.

Atlanta Parent’s Best Family Businesses

Dr. Hemant Dhawan and Dr. Javid Yavari are pleased to announce the addition of a new location to their dentistry and orthodontic practice. Patients now have three convenient locations to choose from in Duluth, Alpharetta and Cumming. From the moment patients walk through the doors they are welcomed by an exceptionally warm and friendly staff in a relaxing state-of-the-art environment. Both doctors have a way of putting kids and parents at ease, because they truly enjoy what they do and love caring for patients of all ages. Their positive energy and light-hearted personalities are felt throughout each patient’s visit.

Dr. Dhawan and Dr. Yavari always take time to speak to all their patients and parents, keeping them well informed during every appointment. “I want everyone to feel welcome in my off ices; it is truly our passion to create a distinct and beautiful smile on every single patient,” says Dr. Yavari.

In addition to being named a mom-approved dentist in Atlanta, Dr. Dhawan has been peer-selected as one of America’s Top 40 Dentists Under 40 and featured in the Delta Airlines Sky Magazine. With more than 30 years of combined experience, both doctors have specialized training in their field and provide patients the lifelong gift of smiles.

Their children’s dental practices are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive dentistry for kids from infancy through their teenage years and specialized care for children with special needs. They also offer complete orthodontic treatment for all ages. Haven’t established a dental home for your family yet? Schedule an appointment in one of their family friendly off ices, Serving families in Cumming, Vickery, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Buford, Duluth, Johns Creek, Alpharetta and Dawsonville.

Zone of Light Studio has just opened a new Medlock location and they are ready for you! Looking for a fun art-themed Birthday Party? They’ve done it all: Princess, Spider-Man, Unicorns, Harry Potter, Dolphins, Taylor Swift – you name it. Their popular Black Light Room is fully functional and party-tested already. The new studio also features a “Tea Party Room,” a “Messy Room” (think “splatter art”), and an exciting Zone Speakeasy for adults! They are also perfect for Bar & Bat Mitzvahs and adult events like Class Reunions, Corporate Retreats, Team Building – even Wedding Receptions or Anniversaries.

Zone of Light also offers Small Group Art Lessons for all ages. And whenever schools are closed, they are open with outstanding all-day “No-School” programs. To learn more, visit zoneoflightstudio.com

558 Medlock Road | Decatur 30030

Atlanta Parent’s Best Family Businesses Atlanta Parent’s

THE BIG BLUE DIFFERENCE

Beginning with baby and toddler swim lessons, Big Blue empowers kids up to 12 years old to build confidence, spark curiosity, and embrace a sense of limitlessness through swim. Swimming classes help kids develop water safety skills, but also discover their strengths and potential, fostering habits like resilience and joy.

Big Blue’s welcoming, friendly environment, guided by caring instructors, makes the pool a place of imagination for kids and provides ease for parents. Through an expertly designed curriculum, kids enjoy more time spent swimming, and parents feel relief knowing their kids are learning this essential skill with dedicated staff who care.

For more information on Big Blue’s kids swimming lessons in Atlanta and to book a FREE trial lesson, visit bigblueswimschool.com.

SERVING

A pediatric practice grows up in Marietta. In 2000, Sandy Plains Pediatrics started serving children and their families in the East Cobb area. Later, they created a unique medical home for kids by adding a child psychiatrist to care for their mental health. Now Sandy Plains Pediatrics has expanded to include Psychiatric nurse practitioners and Psychotherapy counselors that treat both children and adults. This practice has grown into a multi-specialty group and has given itself a new name, Sandy Plains Healthcare.

Dr. Laurette Ho and Dr. Vincent Ho are the founders of Sandy Plains Healthcare. Married since 1987, they graduated from UAB Medical School and completed residency training in Pediatrics and Child/Adult Psychiatry respectively. As their patients sometimes call them, “Mrs. Doctor Ho”and “Mr. Doctor Ho” provide healthcare for both body and mind.

Dr. Laurette Ho, the Pediatrician, believes in preventative healthcare by monitoring a child’s physical health and preventing life threatening diseases with vaccinations. She and her nurse practitioners manage common illnesses such as infections, childhood obesity, asthma, allergies, headaches, and abdominal pain.

Dr. Vincent Ho, the Child and Adult Psychiatrist, provides the patients at Sandy Plains easy access to mental healthcare. With training in Adult Psychiatry, he and his nurse practitioners offer psychiatric

treatment throughout the lifespan from child to adult. Evaluation and medication to help ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and bipolar conditions are available at this practice. Recently, psychological counselors were also added to the group and together they provide a comprehensive approach to mental health. Psychotherapy for children and adults can provide vital coping skills and behavioral improvements.

Keep an eye on Sandy Plains Healthcare for other services that might be added to support patients and families during all stages of their lives.

Halloween Countdown

It’s the creepiest time of the year! Use these ideas to celebrate Halloween all month long.

by Emily Webb and Mary Williams

Celebrate the start of October with peanut butter spider cookies for National Homemade Cookie Day. They come together quickly with sugar cookie mix, Rolo candies, mini M&Ms and black licorice. Find full instructions at bettycrocker.com.

Make plans to visit your local library for exciting Halloween-themed activities. Throughout the month, DeKalb County Public Library hosts scavenger hunts, craft times and more (dekalblibrary.org). At Gwinnett County Public Library, go crazy for pumpkins with cooking classes, STEM activities and storytimes (gwinnettpl.org). Enjoy fall and Halloween storytimes at Coweta Public Library System’s events (coweta.ga.us).

It’s a ghostly gathering! Kids will love making ghosts fly and watching the tail billow around as they move. Instructions can be found at onelittleproject.com.

It’s National Cinnamon Roll Day! Get the kids in the kitchen to make pumpkin-shaped cinnamon rolls — they get their special shape from kitchen string. Find the recipe at dominosugar.com.

Decorate your own delicious caramel apples for an autumnal treat. Dip apples in melted caramel (or try melted chocolate!) before rolling in toppings, such as sprinkles, nuts, mini marshmallows or whatever your heart desires!

Paint a bubbling brew. Kids will love blowing bubbles to create their own 3D masterpiece. You’ll need tempera paint, liquid dish soap and a straw. Find instructions on craftsonsea.co.uk.

“Bone” up on engineering skills with this building challenge! Compete to see who can build the longest bridge using cotton swabs, pipe cleaners and craft sticks. Find instructions on stemchallenge.com.

Make fall trinket dishes. Capture the colors of fall by pressing a fresh leaf into air-dry or oven-bake clay. Cut around the outline; once it’s dry, add color with acrylic or spray paint in fall colors. Find directions at cottageonbunkerhill.com.

Today is National Costume Swap Day. Gather family, colleagues and neighbors for a sustainable costume swap. And if you don’t have a costume yet, buy, borrow or make your own! 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Make an edible haunted house. To make this holiday treat, you’ll need brownie mix, frosting, ghost and pumpkin marshmallow Peeps and candies for decorating. Find the recipe at readyseteat.com.

Get batty. Kids will want to create a colony of bats for this sweet keepsake! Once decorated, this bat mobile can hold mini photos. Find instructions at michaels.com.

TGIF! Time for a family movie night. Put on your pajamas, break out the popcorn and enjoy “The Addams Family,” “The Curse of Bridge Hollow” or “Hocus Pocus” and its sequel.

Go with the (spooky) flow. Make and decorate these pumpkin lava lamps for a cool STEAM experiment. Find instructions at science-sparks.com.

It’s National Dessert Day! Treat the kids (and yourself) to limitededition Halloween donuts from Dunkin’ or Krispy Kreme. Visit your local Jeni’s scoop shop for seasonal ice cream flavors like skillet cinnamon roll or green mint chip, or head to Morelli’s for rum caramel apple, pumpkin cheesecake or pumpkin pie.

Let’s go fly a pumpkin. Make pumpkin catapults with craft sticks and rubber bands — find instructions on playdoughtoplato.com — and see who can shoot their candy pumpkin the furthest.

31 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Serve a boo-ti-ful snack board. Make an array of snacks extra-fun with a Halloween twist. Use a mix of sweet and savory items and get creative making pumpkins, ghosts and more. Find instructions on these goodies at togethertoeat.com.

There’s 15 days until Halloween! Toast the date with a cauldron of sweet concoctions. Fancy up your hot chocolate by adding pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon or nutmeg. Apple cider gets a makeover with butterscotch chips, caramel sauce or oranges. Search online for more delicious add-in ideas.

Have a spooky (or not-so-spooky) storytime. Choose a book to read out loud, such as “Room on the Broom” by Julia Donaldson or “The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Creepy-Crawly Halloween” by Eric Carle. Read some scary poetry, make up your own story with a themed Mad Libs or search online for read-a-longs to watch with your children.

Decorate with a Halloween suncatcher. Make a smiling jack-o’-lantern face using translucent pony beads and a wood embroidery hoop. Find directions at artfulparent.com.

Serve a pumpkin-themed brunch with a pumpkin loaf, pumpkin cream cheese muffins, pumpkin-shaped cutout sandwiches or waffles, rice cereal treat-shaped pumpkins, pumpkin pie smoothies or peeled oranges or clementines with cucumber or celery to resemble mini pumpkins.

Hold a family game night. Create your own exciting games — bedazzle tokens to resemble witches, monsters, pumpkins, ghosts or bats for a game of tic-tac-toe. Update Pin the Tail on the Donkey by adding various features to build your own monster. Break out the Ouija board, or try the I Spy Spooky Mansion Game ($19.99 at barnesandnoble.com) or Clue Conspiracy ($24.99 at amazon.com).

Host a haunted house party. Decorate your house inside and out, play Halloween songs and sounds, and invite friends over for a spook-tacular time. Ask guests to dress in costume, and make sure the scares are age-appropriate.

Scare up dinnertime fare with ghostly pops. Skewer a precooked meatball on a lollipop stick and wrap it with a strip of crescent roll dough. Add olive “eyes,” bake, and serve with marinara sauce. Find instructions at epicuricloud.com.

This slime is easy for kids. Mix up different food colors and extracts for a sensory project, and add glitter or googly eyes for more variety. Find instructions at mccormick.com.

Honor Frankenstein Friday. Hold a movie night with “Hotel Transylvania,” “Frankenstein” or “Young Frankenstein.” Search online for Frankenstein’s monster crafts or crazy mad scientists’ experiments. Read “Frankenstein - Kid Classics: The Classic Edition Reimagined Just-for-Kids!” For younger kids, read interactive “There’s a Monster in Your Book” by Tom Fletcher.

Today is National Pumpkin Day. Visit a nearby pumpkin patch to find the perfect one to bring home. Some of our favorite spots are Burt’s Farm (burtspumpkinfarmgeorgia. com), The Maize at Steed’s Dairy (steedsdairy.com), Berry Patch Farms (berrypatchfarms.net) and Sleepy Hollow Farm (sleepyhollowtrees.com). For a complete list, see page 66.

It’s National Black Cat Day, but this cat won’t bring bad luck! Let your child paint a paper plate black and let it dry, then use the template to cut the plate into a cat shape. Add eyes, nose and whiskers to finish. Find instructions and the template by Amanda Davis at craftsbyamanda.com.

Use Halloween candies, candy melts, sprinkles, gummies, candy eyeballs and more to make candy bark. Go wild making this scary and decadent dessert! Find instructions at wilton.com.

Halloween is almost here! Make up a themed scavenger hunt by hiding small items around the house or yard. The first one to find them all wins a prize.

For National Candy Corn Day, make tasty candy corn bars — layers of orange-flavored sugar cookie dough topped with creamy icing. Find the recipe at pillsbury.com.

It’s Halloween! Head out for a night of trick-or-treating. Find

SWEET FAREWELLS: Understanding When Kids Should Say Goodbye to Trick-or-

Treating

by Jill Morgenstern

Trick-or-treating is a timehonored way to spend Halloween, giving kids the opportunity to be creative, have fun and, of course, fill up on candy! But deciding when it’s time to leave this childhood tradition behind can be tricky, for parents and tweens alike. Discussing children’s feelings openly can ensure a smooth transition.

When to stop trick-or-treating is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Here are a number of ways to determine whether your child is on the brink of outgrowing trick-or-treating:

Your neighborhood culture

Look around at the other children trick-or-treating in your neighborhood. Is your child among the oldest? The youngest? Right in between? This can help you decide if your child fits into neighborhood culture. Says Angela Marvel, mom of two, “My now 15-year-old plans to go out this year and dress up with his girlfriend in a couple costume. My 17-year-old isn’t sure. If he has a group of friends to hang with, he will go out; if not, he will stay home. Around our area the teens tend to choose to stop trickor-treating when their friend groups decide not to anymore.”

Lack of enthusiasm

Your child may be letting you know that they are feeling too old to trick-or-treat if they don’t seem as excited as they used to about choosing a costume or Halloween in general. In this case, follow their lead and trick-or-treating may phase out by itself.

Birth order

An older sibling may trick-or-treat a little longer than they normally would in order to accompany a younger sibling. Shaun Thompson, mom of four, said her older children would take her younger ones out trick-or-treating and sneak in some candy for themselves. Because of that, “I think it’s difficult to pinpoint an age when they would stop,” she says.

They’re never too old!

Many parents would prefer their children do something as innocent as trick-ortreating for as long as possible rather than pursue more grown-up interests. If this is you, let them trick-or-treat for as long as they are willing! Barb Danielsen, mom of three, said, “I encouraged my kids to trick-or-treat for as long as they were willing to dress up and have fun with it. One stopped around 13, the other daughter around 15 or maybe more, my ‘97 baby didn’t stop until 15. I’m always happy to give treats to teenagers who are dressed up in the spirit of the night.”

High school teacher Jeb Barry agrees saying, “I never had much of a problem with my high school students coming to my house trick-or-treating since they could have been doing a lot worse things instead. But if they didn’t wear a costume, I would tell them they are simply begging for candy.”

What to do instead of trick-or-treating

Just because your child may have outgrown trick-or-treating doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of fun activities to do on Halloween. Try making memories with one or more of these:

n Costume parties: Even adults enjoy costume parties and kids may willingly trade a night of trick-or-treating for a fun party!

n Haunted houses: A frightfully fun Halloween activity that appeals to teens and tweens. See our list on page 61.

n Movie night: A spooky movie and some treats of your own is an entertaining way to spend the evening. You can ramp up the fear factor on the movie as your child gets older.

n Hand out candy: Answering the door to trick-or-treaters is a Halloween necessity, so make it a new tradition in your house. While you wait for kids to ring the bell, play board games or make up spooky stories.

n Make homemade treats: Have fun in the kitchen making chocolate bark with colorful sprinkles or get a “make your own gummies” kit if your crew prefers fruity treats.

n Give back: Instead of candy, your tween or teen can collect non-perishables for a nearby free little pantry or food bank to help community members in need.

NO TRICKS, ALL TREATS

Ideas for Wicked Good Fun this Halloween

by Emily Webb

n Make delicious cookie creations for the holiday with this Create-A-Treat OREO DIY Halloween Cookie Kit The kit includes OREO cookies and mini cookies, frosting and assorted candy to create your own spooky concoctions, such as ghosts, spiders and more. Available at michaels.com for $19.99.

n Learn about spooky festivities from all over the world with Spooky Celebrations Around the World by Matt Ralphs. Across every continent, there are festivals celebrating and honoring spirits, and this book includes fun facts and beautiful illustrations to explore cultural traditions from around the world, including Nigeria, Mexico, Scandinavia and more. Available at phaidon.com for $19.95.

n Double, double, toil and trouble! Young witches and wizards can practice their potion-making abilities with Uncommon Goods’ Woodland Witch Pretend Play Set. Use the cauldron, ladle, tongs and bowls to mix up brews from the wooden-andfelt ingredients, including mushrooms and eyeballs. The recipe cards will help little ones develop matching and recognition skills. Available at uncommongoods.com for $40.

n Build mini monsters with LEGO’s Creative Monsters. This set includes all the pieces needed to build five monsters, including a dragon, with a step-by-step pictorial guide. Available at lego.com for $9.99.

n Customize your very own treat bag for Halloween with Color Your Own Large Halloween Nonwoven Tote Bags from Oriental Trading. Featuring Halloween illustrations, color in the design on the bag for a unique night of trick-or-treating. Available at orientaltrading.com for $20.99.

n Add a touch of magic to your windows with Halloween Easy Sparkle Window Art from Creativity for Kids by Faber-Castell. Make seven self-adhesive foil window art designs with a pumpkin, skull, candy corn, cat, Frankenstein, witch’s hat and ghost. Fill in the outlines with window paint and decorate with rhinestones and wiggly eyes before glamming up your windows. Available at fabercastell.com for $16.99.

DYSLEXIA MYTHS: The Truth Behind Common Misconceptions

by Tali Benjamin

Dyslexia was first identified by Oswald Berkhan in 1881, though the term ‘dyslexia’ became the official name for language processing disorder in 1887 when Rudolf Berlin, an ophthalmologist from Germany, developed the name. Despite its 143-year history, there are still many misconceptions about dyslexia. We spoke to a few experts to understand the facts about the learning disability that affects about 20% of the population.

MYTH: People with dyslexia are unmotivated and not smart.

Perhaps the most widespread myth about dyslexia, this one is also often the most hurtful for people who are diagnosed with it. “I frequently hear, ‘but she is so smart, she can’t be dyslexic’ and that a diagnosis of dyslexia signals an inability to learn,” says Kara A. Loftin, Ph.D., Head of School at The Schenck School and Executive Director of ReadSource in Atlanta. “Both are simply not true.”

Dr. Coral Hoh, linguistic expert and co-inventor of Dysolve concurs. “People with dyslexia run the spectrum of intelligence just as with the general population,” says Hoh. “Students with dyslexia work a lot harder than other students but have a hard time making the same grades. This can lead to low self-esteem and frustration.”

In some cases, what is seen as laziness might actually be signs of stress. “Children with unremediated dyslexia face anxiety and shame when faced with unachievable expectations,” says Sherry Cannon M.Ed., A/AOG, Head of School at Sage School in Lawrenceville. “This can cause outward behavior such as shutting down, giving up, or producing poor work that can mimic laziness to uneducated parents, caregivers or educators — especially when a student has yet to be diagnosed.”

Dyslexia is a neurobiological disorder, and it does not mean that a person is not smart or that they are unable to learn. “Individuals with dyslexia are capable of so much more than this limiting belief,” notes Loftin.

MYTH: Reversing letters is the main sign of dyslexia.

Reversing letters isn’t necessarily a sign of dyslexia. “Not all individuals with dyslexia will reverse letters,” says Loftin. “The main sign of dyslexia is difficulty with accurate and/or fluent word recognition, accompanied by poor spelling and decoding ability.”

Dyslexia has to do with the way language is processed and is not related to vision. “Individuals with dyslexia often flip lowercase ‘b’s and ‘d’s,” says Hoh. “But the confusion has more to do with the sound the letters make and less to do with how they look.”

MYTH:

Dyslexia is caused by a lack of exposure to reading or phonics instruction.

Signs of Dyslexia

For a comprehensive list of warning signs, the Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org) and the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity (dyslexia.yale.edu) are excellent resources.

n Late or delayed speech

n Difficulty rhyming

n Mispronouncing familiar words

n Difficulty learning and remembering letters of the alphabet

n Difficulty sounding out simple words

n Complaining about reading being hard

n Avoiding reading out loud

n Family history of reading problems

Exposing young children to literacy is an important element of early childhood development, but a lack of it is not a cause of dyslexia. “Since individuals are born hardwired with dyslexia, the amount of exposure to reading and/or phonics cannot cause dyslexia,” says Cannon. “Rather, early identification and proven Orton-Gillingham based remediation can drastically improve outcomes for dyslexic thinkers.”

Even support for dyslexic students may not focus on traditional phonics models and instead use a multi-sensory approach. “Phonics often doesn’t make sense to kids with dyslexia,” says Hoh. “They can’t retain the letters and sounds because they can’t process it.”

MYTH: Kids outgrow dyslexia.

“You can’t outgrow inefficiencies in brain processing,” explains Hoh. While dyslexia doesn’t go away, it doesn’t have to define a person. According to a Yale University study, 40% of self-made millionaires and 35% of entrepreneurs in America have dyslexia.

“Dyslexia is a life-long issue, but it doesn’t have to be a limiting factor in one’s growth and development,” says Loftin. “With proper support and intervention, individuals with dyslexia can become skilled readers.”

As with other learning difficulties, early intervention is best. For those who do not get diagnosed until later in life, Hoh’s online, AI-based tool — dysolve.com — can provide affordable solutions for correcting language processing challenges.

“We can’t forget our older learners with dyslexia,” says Loftin. “All individuals with dyslexia deserve access to highquality instruction and can learn to read, regardless of age.”

MYTH: Dyslexia is a vision problem.

Though originally diagnosed and named by an ophthalmologist, dyslexia is a language processing disorder that occurs in the brain. “Dyslexics can have similar vision problems to non-dyslexic, but there are no vision problems specific to dyslexia or that cause dyslexia,” says Cannon.

“Visual problems can affect the ability to read, but dyslexia is not an inability to read,” says Hoh. “It is a difficulty in processing language — spoken and written.”

DYSLEXIA MYTHS

MYTH: More boys than girls have dyslexia.

“This myth is a bit trickier to untangle,” explains Loftin. “Boys are diagnosed with dyslexia at a higher rate than girls. However, researchers continue to argue that dyslexia is as common in girls as it is in boys.”

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, this discrepancy may have a number of underlying factors including male brain maturation being slower than that of the average female, as well as brain anatomy. Research shows that females tend to use both hemispheres of the brain for language tasks, while males typically use only the left.

Another take on the imbalance of diagnoses is behavioral. “Girls are underdiagnosed because they are less likely to act out due to frustration,” notes Cannon.

MYTH: Dyslexia cannot be diagnosed until about third grade.

Dyslexia can be diagnosed much earlier than third grade. “In fact, the earlier it is detected, the better outcomes for students. Professionals can diagnose dyslexia in students as young as 5 years old,” says Loftin. “Early intervention is key!”

The reason third grade is so often connected with dyslexia diagnoses is because it is a pivotal learning year. “This is when students move from learning to read to reading to learn,” explains Loftin. “It can be a time when challenges with fluent reading become much more pronounced among peers.”

MYTH: Dyslexia only happens with English.

Dyslexia occurs in every language. “It’s a worldwide issue,” says Hoh.

Though individuals with dyslexia can be from any country in world, Cannon notes that the language processing disorder can be harder to overcome in English, French and Russian because of a higher frequency of irregular spelling and letter combination. “Languages like Italian, Spanish and German have more regular letter and sound correspondences, which can make it easier for a dyslexic to read and spell the language,” she says. “Symbol-based writing systems like Japanese and Chinese are also somewhat easier for dyslexic thinkers.”

Could Your Child’s Reading Difficulty be Dyslexia?

by Sarah Lyons

Children learn to read at their own pace but if your child is struggling to make significant progress compared to their peers, they may have dyslexia. According to Mayo Clinic, “Dyslexia is a learning disorder that involves difficulty reading due to problems identifying speech sounds and learning how to relate to letters and words. Dyslexia affects areas of the brain that process language” (mayoclinic.org).

Symptoms of dyslexia may include:

n Speech delay, trouble learning words, problems forming words correctly or reversing sounds or words that sound alike

n Reading well below the expected level for age, difficulty with spelling, difficulty reading aloud

n Trouble remembering sequences or identifying rhyming words, reversing letters or numbers

n Spending an unusually long time completing tasks that involve reading and writing or avoiding these activities.

People who struggle with dyslexia have normal intelligence and can succeed in school and careers with proper support. So, how do you go about helping your child with dyslexia succeed?

At school:

n Ask for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 plan. In Georgia, schools are required to provide specialized support for kids diagnosed with dyslexia. Talk to your child’s teachers about setting up a meeting with educators to help your child be successful at school. Consider retaining an advocate to help you navigate the process.

n  Keep in contact with your child’s teacher. If parents and teachers work together, it is easier to support your child through the challenges they may be facing when it comes to homework and school. Check in often with your child’s teacher regularly and encourage them to reach out if the interventions put in place don’t seem to be helping your child make adequate growth.

At home:

n Consider tutoring. Individual help from a tutor who understands methodology, such as OrtonGillingham, can really give your child a boost in their reading skills because it can be tailored to your child’s needs and learning style.

n Early intervention has been proven to help kids struggling with dyslexia. As soon as you notice a problem, talk to your child’s doctor.

n Encourage reading. Take turns reading aloud to your child, model good reading habits, and add reading to everyday activities (cooking, games or instructions). Turn off electronics and add reading time to your day.

Be supportive:

n Encourage your child’s efforts as they work through challenges.

n  Talk to them about what they are struggling with and discuss ideas that will help solve problems they may be facing.

n Join a support group or see a counselor. Having people around you that understand what you are going through and offer support can be a big help as you learn how to be a support for your child.

n Support learning at home. Provide a clean, organized, and quiet place to study and offer help as needed.

If you believe your child may have dyslexia, talk to your doctor about testing, resources and support. There is no single test that can determine if your child has dyslexia. Your doctor may use a combination of questionnaires, medical history, psychological evaluations and academic testing to determine if your child has dyslexia.

Screening for Dyslexia in GA Public Schools

A law that was signed in May of 2019 is now being implemented throughout the state. “In Georgia, SB48 provides for identification of and support for students in kindergarten through third grade with dyslexia,” says Loftin. “Mandated screening for dyslexia for students began this Fall.” The approved screening that will be used is the ISIPTM reading assessment, which is part of the Istation literacy educational software platform. While a formal diagnosis is not the goal of these evaluations, they are worthwhile assessment tools for parents and teachers. “Only a physician can diagnose dyslexia with information gained from a battery of assessments,” says Cannon. The testing looks a several areas, including:

n Phonological awareness, which is a person’s awareness of the sound structure of oral language.

n Phonological or language-based memory, which refers to the ability to recall sounds, syllables, and words.

n Rapid automatic naming, which is the speed at which someone can name objects, colors, numbers, or letters.

n Phonics skills, which is the understanding of the connection between letters and sounds.

n Reading fluency and comprehension, which describes the ability to identify words and read with accuracy and understanding.

Students who show signs of dyslexia during the screening process are eligible for support at public school. Additionally, educators will have the ability to continually monitor student progress throughout the school year to help diagnose, monitor and respond to student needs as they shift through this program.

2024-25 Guide to Private School Admission Events and Tours

Be sure to check websites for the most up-to-date registration information. Many schools also offer virtual tour options.

n Alexsander Academy alexsanderacademy.org

404-839-5910

1260 Upper Hembree Rd., Ste. D Roswell 30076

Grades 1-12

Register online for a tour.

n Annunciation Day School annunciationdayschool.org

404-565-2850

2500 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta 30329

Preschool-Grade 8

Open Houses: Nov. 7, 9-11 a.m.; Nov. 12, 1-3 p.m. Register online.

n Athens Academy athensacademy.org

706-549-9225

1281 Spartan Ln., Athens 30606 K3-Grade 12

Open House: Nov. 14, 8:30 a.m. Register online.

n Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.com

678-461-6102

2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy. Roswell 30076

PreK-Grade 8

Open House: Kindergarten, Oct. 24, 9 a.m. Register online.

n Atlanta International School aischool.org

404-841-3840

2890 North Fulton Dr., Atlanta 30305 1701 Brandon Hall Dr., Sandy Springs 30350 K3-Grade 12

Information Sessions: Oct. 15, Nov. 12, Nov. 21 and Dec. 7 Tours available weekly. Register online.

n Atlanta Speech School atlantaspeechschool.org

404-233-5332

3160 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta 30327

Preschool-Grade 6

Kenan Preschool Tours: Oct. 24, Nov. 7, Dec. 5, 8:45 a.m.

Wardlaw School Tours: Oct. 17 and 29, 9 a.m. Register online.

n Brookwood Christian School brookwoodchristian.com

678-401-5855

4728 Wood St., Acworth 30101 Grades 1-12

Register online for a tour.

n Capstone Academy capstoneacademy.com

404-458-5160

1934 Cliff Valley Way, Atlanta 30329 Grades 5-12

Register online for a tour.

n ChildLight Schools childlightschools.org

678-591-7595

K-Grade 8

Find a school near you and schedule a tour online.

n The Children’s School tcsatl.org

404-873-6985

345 10th St. NE, Atlanta 30309

3 Years-Grade 8

Tours: Oct. 22, 29 and 30, Nov. 12 and 19, Dec. 3 and 10 Register online.

n The Cottage School cottageschool.org

770-641-8688

700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell 30075 K-Grade 12

Register online for a tour.

n The Davis Academy davisacademy.org

678-527-3300

8105 and 7901 Roberts Dr., Atlanta 30350 PreK-Grade 8 Register online for a tour.

n Eastside Christian School eastsidechristianschool.com

770-971-2332

2450 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta 30068 K-Grade 11

Open Houses: Oct. 29, 7 p.m.; Dec. 3, 7 p.m. Register online.

n Faith Lutheran School faithmarietta.org

770-973-8921

2111 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta 30068 18 Mos.-Grade 8

Open Houses: Oct. 17, Nov. 21 and Dec. 12, 10 a.m. Register online.

n The Friends School of Atlanta friendsschoolatlanta.org

404-373-8746

862 Columbia Dr., Decatur 30030

PK3-Grade 8

Tours: Oct.-Feb.

Open House: Nov. 16, 10 a.m.-noon Register online.

n The Galloway School gallowayschool.org

404-252-8389

215 Chastain Park Ave. NW, Atlanta 30342 3254 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta 30327

PK3-Grade 12

Campus Tours: Oct.-Jan.

Open Houses: Nov. 17, 10 a.m.-noon; Dec. 8, 2-4 p.m. Register online.

n GRACEPOINT gracepointschool.org

678-756-8897

570 Piedmont Rd., Marietta 30066 Grades 1-8 Register online for a tour.

n The Haven Academy thehavenacademy.com

678-283-7795

8028 Union Hill Rd., Canton 30115 K-12th grade Register online for a tour.

n Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School hies.org

404-255-4026

805 Mount Vernon Hwy. NW, Atlanta 30327

PK3-Grade 12

Open House: Nov. 16

Coffee and Conversation: Dec. 10 Tours available monthly. Register online.

n Holy Spirit Preparatory School holyspiritprep.org

678-761-7992

4465 Northside Dr., Atlanta 30327

4820 Long Island Dr., Atlanta 30342 4449 Northside Dr., Atlanta 30327

6 Mos.-Grade 12

Open Houses: Nov. 7, 13 and 19, 9-11 a.m. Register online.

n Landmark Christian School landmarkchristianschool.org

770-306-4647; 50 SE Broadstreet, Fairburn 30213 770-306-4648; 109 Milo Fisher St., Fairburn 30213 PK3-Grade 12

Campus Tours: Oct. 1 and 22, Nov. 12 Register online.

n Lovett lovett.org

404-262-3032

4075 Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta 30327 K-Grade 12

Discover Lovett: Oct. 28 and Nov. 14, 9-10 a.m.; Dec. 13, 10-11 a.m.

Roam the Riverbank: Nov. 10, 1-3:30 p.m. Register online.

Cont’d on next page

2024-25 Guide to Private School Admission Events and and Tours

n McGinnis Woods School mcginniswoods.org

770-664-7764

5380 Faircroft Dr., Alpharetta 30005

Infants-Grade 8 Register online for an open house or tour.

n Midtown International School misatl.org

404-542-7003

1575 Sheridan Rd. NE, Atlanta 30324

K-Grade 12

Tours: weekly, Oct.-Nov. Open House: Nov. 9, 10 a.m.-noon Register online.

n Mill Springs Academy millsprings.org

770-360-1336

13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta 30004

K-Grade 12

Open House: Nov. 13, 9:30 a.m. Register online.

n Montessori School at Emory montessorischoolatemory.com

404-634-5777

3021 North Decatur Rd., Decatur 30033

15 Mos.-Grade 8

Tours: Tuesdays and Thursdays Register online.

n Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.com

470-250-0008

1275 Stanley Rd. NW, Kennesaw 30152

PreK3-Grade 12

Tuesday Tours: weekly, 9 a.m. Campus Preview: Nov. 7, 9 a.m.

Preschool Peek Open House: Nov. 12, 9 a.m. Register online.

n The Mount Vernon School mountvernonschool.org

404-252-3448

471 Mount Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta 30328

510 Mount Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta 30328

PreK2-Grade 12

Open Houses: Oct. 8, 17, 22 and 29, Nov. 7, 12 and 18, Dec. 3, 5, 10 and 12 Register online.

n North Cobb Christian School ncchristian.org

770-975-0252

4500 Eagle Dr., Kennesaw 30144

K3-Grade 12

Preview Day (drop-in): Nov. 2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Register online.

n OMNI International School omnischoolatl.com

404-865-1463

3940 Cascade Rd., Atlanta 30331

PK2-Grade 3

Register online for a tour.

n Pace Academy paceacademy.org

404-262-1345

966 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta 30327

PreK-Grade 12

Open Houses: Nov. 23, noon and 1 p.m. Register online.

n Pinecrest Academy pinecrestacademy.org

770-888-4477

955 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming 30041

PK3-Grade 12

Meet the Paladins: Oct. 15, 9:30 a.m. Register online.

n Sage School sageschool.net

678-318-3588

800 Satellite Blvd. NE, Suwanee 30024

K-Grade 6 Register online for a tour.

n Saint Anne’s Day School saintannesdayschool.com

404-237-7024

3098 Saint Anne’s Lane NW, Atlanta 30327 12 Mos.-Kindergarten

Open Houses: Oct. 9 and Nov. 12, 9:30 a.m. Register online.

n Saint Francis Schools saintfrancisschools.com 770-641-8257; 9375 Willeo Rd., Roswell 30075 678-339-9989; 13440 Cogburn Rd., Milton 30004 K-Grade 12

Tours: Oct. 22, 23, 24, Nov. 12 and 13, Dec. 3, 4 and 12, 9:30 a.m. Register online.

n The Schenck School schenck.org 404-252-2591

282 Mt. Paran Rd., Atlanta 30327 K-Grade 6 Register online for a tour.

n Seeds of Excellence Christian Academy seedsofexcellenceca.org 678-426-5560

7680 The Bluffs, Ste. 600, Austell 30168 6 Wks.-Grade 8

Open House: Oct. 26, 10 a.m. Register online.

n Seven Oaks Academy sevenoaksacademy.org 770-564-0470

810 Indian Trail Lilburn Rd., Lilburn 30047 18 Mos.-Kindergarten

Tours: Mon., Tues. and Wed. through Dec. 11, 9:30 a.m. Register online.

n Springmont School springmont.com 404-252-3910

5750 Long Island Dr. NW, Atlanta 30327 18 Months-Grade 8

Tours: Oct. 10, Nov. 7 and Dec. 10, 9 a.m. Register online.

n St. Martin’s Episcopal School stmartinschool.org 404-228-0709

3110-A Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta 30319 Infant-Grade 8 Campus Tours: Oct.-Feb. Register online.

n Trinity School trinityatl.org 404-231-8100

4301 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta 30327 3 Years-Grade 6

Open Houses: Oct. 22, Nov. 14 and Dec. 10, 9:30–11:30 a.m. Register online.

n The Walker School thewalkerschool.org 770-427-2689

700 Cobb Pkwy. N, Marietta 30062 PreK3-Grade 12

Small group tours weekly. Register online for a tour.

n Wesleyan School wesleyanschool.org 770-448-7640

5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners 30092 K-Grade 12

Tours/Visit Days: weekly, Oct.-Dec. Register online.

n Woodward Academy woodward.edu

Main Campus: 404-765-4000

1662 Rugby Ave., College Park 30337

PreK-Grade 12

North Campus: 404-765-4490

6565 Boles Rd., Johns Creek 30097

PreK-Grade 6

Tours: Oct. 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14 and 15 Register online.

www lovett org

Engaging Children with Learning Challenges

Since 2008, Alexsander Academy has cultivated a learning environment that encourages, educates and fosters independence for students with learning challenges. As a fully accredited small school serving grades 1-12, Alexsander Academy gets to know each student’s social and academic profile while focusing on building independence skills that allow the students to be academically successful even while minimizing support.

With small classrooms, flexible teachers and a personalized curriculum, students are met where they are functioning academically. Alexsander Academy specializes in students who do well in a school setting but may not qualify for larger schools due to academic gaps or difficulty keeping up with a more typical classroom pace. Admissions are rolling. Summer school is offered and tutoring is available year round. Alexsander Academy provides “friendship groups” to their students and the community to help neurodivergent students connect to each other. Please contact Stefanie Smith, smith@alexsanderacademy.org or 404-839-5910 for more information.

Centered in Christ, Children & Community

Annunciation Day School (ADS) serves a diverse community of students in Preschool through 8th grade with over 25 different nationalities. Their mission is to provide an education grounded in respect, compassion and academic excellence within an Orthodox Christian environment. The core curriculum focuses on hands-on learning where students scored in the top 14% in the nation on standardized testing. Enrichment classes round out the school day with art, music, P.E., Greek, Spanish, and Religion. Morning and after school activities include STEM, ballet/dance, chess, archeology club, and competitive sports in soccer, basketball, volleyball & golf in the MAAC league. The 18:1 student to teacher ratio offers one-on-one learning time and provides opportunities for students to become confident and successful learners. ADS is conveniently located near Emory and the CDC. Register for one of their Open Houses today and learn more!

Preschool – Grade 8 2500 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta 30329 404-565-2850 | adsatlanta.org

Serving Each Child, Every Day

Located in the beautiful rolling hills of Northeast Georgia, Athens Academy is built on a foundation of four pillars: academics, arts, athletics, and service and leadership. Athens Academy offers students an innovative curriculum taught by a talented and dedicated faculty; integrated media and technology programs; an emphasis on integrity and honor, beginning in the earliest grades; a global approach to learning, to prepare them for success in a rapidly-changing world; opportunities for service and leadership beginning as early as Preschool; and a wide variety of options for creative self-expression through the arts, technology, athletics, and more. Explore Athens Academy’s beautiful 152-acre campus in Athens, Georgia, and learn why they are consistently ranked one of the best private schools in the state by Niche.com.

Instilling Confidence and Character

Atlanta Academy, located in Roswell, serves 395 private preschool-8th grade students in North Fulton. Small classes allow teachers to understand students’ individual strengths and help them discover their unique talents. The nurturing culture fosters good character in students alongside academic success, well-being and happiness – a belief in educating the whole child results in students experiencing excitement and joy in the classroom.

The forward-thinking curriculum focuses on building confidence and skills while providing students with various opportunities to succeed at prestigious private high schools and top-ranking public schools.

High-performing student achievement is nurtured in a nondenominational, family-engaged atmosphere. Teachers model and instill values such as empathy, integrity, resiliency, and honesty. Together, all are fully invested in helping children grow into welleducated, independent problem-solvers prepared to excel in high school and beyond.

Preschool – Grade 8 2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy., Roswell 30076 678-461-6102 | atlantaacademy.com

One School, Two Welcoming Campuses

Atlanta International School (AIS) is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, offering Primary, Middle, Diploma and Careers Related IB Programs to 1,350 students from 3K to Grade 12.

From August 2025, AIS will expand to provide 7 and 5-day boarding, flexible learning, and additional day places for students in Grades 9-12 - all located on the new 25-acre campus in Sandy Springs. Both welcoming campuses attract families from around the world, the US and Atlanta.

AIS’s world-class language acquisition program begins in 3 and 4K with full immersion (French, German, Chinese and Spanish) followed by dual and partial immersion in Primary School. Secondary School programs accommodate all levels, whether new to a language or pursuing a bilingual IB Diploma.

Innovation is central to an AIS education and many students pursue STEM/STEAM-endorsed IB diplomas. Beyond the classroom, students enjoy award-winning arts opportunities, competitive athletics and global experiential learning opportunities.

One School Two Welcoming Campuses

Developing Courageous Leaders

3k - Grade 12

Learn more about

Timeless Ideas

Are you looking for a school that…

• Is guided by Christian principles

• Has an average class size of 12 students

• Spends more time outside than in front of screens

• Uses a humanities-based approach with lots of hands on activities

• Recognizes and educates the whole child

• Teaches children to think critically rather than memorize the facts

Look no further than the group of ChildLight Schools! Serving almost 1,000 students in grades K-8 in and around the Atlanta area, their schools utilize Charlotte Mason principles as a core foundation.

If you are interested in learning more about these ChildLight Schools, reach out to the location nearest you to request a tour. There is a distinct difference in an authentic Charlotte Mason education – come see for yourself!

Grades K – 8

Atlanta | Johns Creek | Lilburn | Marietta | Tyrone

INTOWN COMMUNITY SCHOOL 2059 Lavista Road NE, Atlanta 30329 404-633-8081 | intownschool.org

PERIMETER SCHOOL

9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek, 30097 678-405-2300 perimeterschool.org

PARKVIEW CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 4875 Lilburn Stone Mtn. Rd., Lilburn 30047 770-279-8702 | parkviewchristian.com

EAST COBB CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 4616 Roswell Road, Marietta 30062 770-565-0881 | eccs.org

CROSSROADS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

305 Arrowood Road, Tyrone 30290 770-487-0677 | crossroadschristian.school

Celebrating 40 Years

The Cottage School (TCS) celebrates 40 years of creating success stories for students who learn differently. They continue their growth this year by expanding to a 2nd campus and adding grades K-2, making TCS a K-12 school serving students with mild to moderate learning differences.

This expansion comes with the acquisition of a new campus strategically located less than two miles from the main campus in Roswell. This new facility will cater exclusively to the kindergarten through 5th grade programs. The main campus will continue to focus on providing exceptional education and support to middle and high school students grades 6th-12th.

TCS employs small class sizes, and balances academics with afternoon experiential classes, a comprehensive music program, and culinary kitchen. Sports, clubs, electives, and field trips support students in developing communication, interaction and self-esteem. Currently accepting K-12. Inquire today.

Grades K - 12

700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell 30075 770-641-8688 l cottageschool.org

The Cottage School celebrates 40 years of creating success stories for students who learndifferently.

Grades K-12 n Inquire Today! cottageschool.org

Be Amazed by the Davis Experience

From Kindergarten Prep - Eighth Grade, The Davis Academy teaches to the whole child, creating compassionate leaders and equipping them with skills they will use for the entirety of their academic careers and beyond. They teach life skills, instill Jewish values, and provide diverse experiences so that the students become well-rounded and self-confident individuals. Students learn in a warm and supportive community that shares common values and visions. They celebrate both the ways the diversity makes their school vibrant and the individual differences that make their school community so unique. With a retention rate of 97%, The Davis Academy community is comprised of families from across the globe, nation, and 31 metro Atlanta zip codes. Davis graduates attend the most prestigious public and private high schools in Atlanta. They know who they are and continuously make a difference in their communities and the world.

Mechina (Pre-K) – Grade 8

8105 Roberts Drive, Atlanta 30350 770-671-0085 davisacademy.org

Academic Excellence from a Biblical Worldview

Founded in 1983, Eastside is a fully accredited private Christian school located in East Cobb, Marietta, GA. They invest in the academic, spiritual and overall development of their students, offering small class sizes, challenging academics and a wide-range of athletic and extracurricular programs, providing them with a strong foundation for their future in a Christ centered classroom. Eastside prepares students to be servant leaders in the classroom, on the sports field, on stage and in the community. Now enrolling K-11th grade for the 2025-26 school year with 12th grade opening 2026/27. Tours are available, please register online.

Open House dates are: 10/29, 12/3, 1/29.

Grades K - 11th grade

770-971-2332

2450 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta eastsidechristianschool.com

High Expectations, Low Anxiety

Located in historic Chastain Park, The Galloway School is a community where learning is joyful, individuals are valued, and self-discovery is encouraged. Galloway students in Pre-K3 - 12th grade confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence to thrive as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways.

Galloway provides students with an innovative symbiotic learning experience that defies traditional, transactional learning. For more than 50 years, they have been committed to providing a rigorous program that fosters creativity, collaboration, and cultural competency. The philosophy of engaged and experiential learning encourages students to be ever curious about the world around them and to develop a critical mind.

With an environment that both challenges and supports the students, Galloway encourages each student to grow at their own pace while developing a sense of personal agency.

PreK3 – Grade 12

215 Chastain Park Ave. NW, Atlanta 30342 3254 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta 30327 404-252-8389 | gallowayschool.org

Customized Educational Options

Established in 2012, The Haven Academy recently completed the construction of a new educational facility that has opened for the 2024 academic year. The school provides a Cogniaaccredited, secular private school experience for students K –Grade 12, offering both full-time and hybrid scheduling options. They prioritize the emotional and physical safety of students while delivering a robust, hands-on and engaging educational program. Their philosophy centers on fostering a desire for learning and promoting mutual respect within the school community. Both students and parents appreciate their flexible and individualized approach to education. The Haven Academy offers a range of academic tracks, including on-level, advanced, and slightly remedial options, with the possibility for students to graduate early. Their flexible attendance policies cater to those with medical requirements, frequent travelers, and participants in sports, music, or entertainment activities. Learn more today.

678-283-7795 Cognia-accredited K-Grade 12 full-time and hybrid private school.

Discover HIES: Learning, Leadership, Community and Faith

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School is the country’s largest Parish Episcopal school, serving 1,400 students ages 3 years old through 12th grade. On its 43-acre campus located just north of Chastain Park, HIES has an impressive campus anchored by an expansive pedestrian-friendly quad. From a very early age, students cultivate a love of learning in cutting-edge academic facilities, guided by exceptional, dedicated educators. They cultivate respect for themselves and others through global travel and experiential learning. HIES students grow in their faith in God in an inclusive community where all faith traditions are welcomed. They learn to become ethical leaders driven by a desire to make a difference in and serve the world community. The HIES college-prep curriculum challenges students, encourages collaboration and inspires creative thinking. Plan your visit to HIES today at hies.org/admissions!

PK3 – Grade 12

805 Mount Vernon Highway NW

Atlanta 30327

404-255-4026 | hies.org

Offering 2-3 day hybrid, 4-5 day full-time private school, and one day enrichment programs. Schedule an informational call or tour on our website at TheHavenAcadeny.com

UpCloseandPersonal Spotlight on Private Schools

UpCloseandPersonal Spotlight on Private Schools

Discover Your Place at Lovett

Founded in 1926, The Lovett School is Atlanta’s independent, coeducational day school of choice for families who value a multi-faceted approach to the education of the whole child –where intellectual rigor, social-emotional learning, and character development are purposefully cultivated and inextricably linked.

Students find joy and purpose by immersing themselves in intellectually rigorous, hands-on learning environments. Classrooms anchor the development of strong character and spark the discovery of individual passions and collective purpose. Students are offered experiences that deepen their cognitive, emotional, and social skills while inspiring an enthusiasm for learning.

Lovett’s academic offerings are complemented by dynamic arts programming, competitive athletics teams, and purposeful civic engagement opportunities. With a student body of 1,640 students, Lovett is a community of belonging that develops students of honor, faith, and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in learning and in life.

Our students find joy and purpose in learning by doing.

Empowering the Gifted, Inspiring the Curious

Midtown International School enables gifted and highachieving students to engage and thrive by providing immersive learning opportunities that develop their passions and maximize their strengths.

Understanding each individual’s uniqueness, MIS removes the limits from their learning. At this independent K-12 school, every student is given a sense of freedom and value…a space to be true to what they know is right, to be true to themselves and their own growth and learning. Students and faculty experience this as engagement, as discovering their voice in making the world a better place for all.

MIS understands that giftedness can present in many forms, and sometimes doesn’t look like the traditional “high-achiever.” They provide a safe space for identifying and employing student strengths and taking academic risks. MIS students think, debate, problem solve, synthesize, and thrive as they tackle real-world challenges in classes, clubs, and travel.

Grades K – 12

1575 Sheridan Rd. NE, Atlanta 30324

404-542-7003 | misatl.org

IVE IT LEARN IT

Serving Both Students and Families

The Montessori School at Emory was founded more than 30 years ago and became accredited as a Montessori school in 1993. With more than 175 students ranging in age from 15 months to 14 years, the Montessori School at Emory supports the whole child and prepares them for life through accredited, authentic, quality Montessori programs. Children are given one-on-one instruction from their teacher, creating an individualized program that engages their interests and skill levels.

Montessori School at Emory offers several flexible options. Full-day, half-day, 10-month, or year-round formats are available. Afternoon enrichment programs are also offered from 3 pm to 6 pm, in which children can enjoy extracurricular experiences in music, dance, and sports. Early morning drop-off is available at 7 a.m. For more information, visit MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com or call 404-634-5777.

Move Mountains at MPCS

Mount Paran Christian School provides an elevated experience in academics, award-winning arts, and championship athletics — all with Christ at the center. Within small class sizes (12:1 student-teacher ratio), MPCS offers 56 AP/honors courses, instructional support, robotics, Spanish and STEAM starting in PK3, and a 1:1 device program. It’s crucial to guarantee a moral and faith foundation through everything your child learns on the school journey. Through curricular Bible classes, weekly chapel, service, and discipleship groups, faith becomes fused into who they are. Highly-qualified career educators know and love each student to raise up servant-leaders who can move mountains – in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage, and ultimately in the community. Chart your path at mtparanschool.com/explore.

The Journey of Purpose Begins Here

The Mount Vernon School empowers students to discover, explore, learn, design, create, and affect change.

Based on a strong foundation of core educational methods, they combine inquiry-based learning with design thinking, enabling students to strengthen problem-solving skills. Their blended approach ensures lasting context for learning.

As a co-educational day school for more than 1,250 students in Preschool through Grade 12, Mount Vernon is a destination for students who want to design a better world.

The ideas Mount Vernon students have today will change the world and impact tomorrow. Schedule a tour today.

PK2 – Grade 12

510 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta 404-252-3448 mountvernonschool.org

NCCS Protects What Matters Most

At North Cobb Christian School, student safety and wellbeing come first. With a curriculum grounded in biblical truth and programs that foster authentic discipleship, students glean an identity firmly rooted in Christ. A robust team of full-time school resource officers, three full-time school counselors, two full-time school nurses, weekly chapel, daily Bible class, and peer-mentoring programs provide students with spiritual support and security.

Plus, North Cobb Christian School is the first school in the nation to earn Guardian SafeSchool® certification, which requires a thorough best-practice approach to managing school security, while reinforcing a warm and nurturing school culture.

At NCCS, students are safe and supported ... free to become all God created them to be. Call 770-975-0252 to set up a personal tour of NCCS’s beautiful 55-acre campus.

Grades K3 - Grade 12

4500 Eagle Dr., Kennesaw 770-975-0252 | ncchristian.org

Language Immersion with a Global Perspective

OMNI International School is a language immersion school for students PK2 – Grade 3. The focus for all grades is a full immersion of the Asian (Japanese or Chinese) and English languages with Spanish integrated as a 3rd language beginning at kindergarten. With this approach, each child will have a solid footing in their native tongue and the foundation needed to build on other aspects of their language development, while becoming trilingual.

The OMNI Schools delivery of a well-balanced, rigorous academic curriculum is taught with a global perspective. In keeping with the ideals of globalization, they are answering the need and desire for quality schools with an emphasis on foreign language, while teaching children to become critical thinkers in a global economy.

On day one, OMNI works jointly with families to foster a love of learning and pride in belonging ... in multiple languages. Schedule a tour today and learn more about OMNI and their language immersion program.

Taught by Native Instructors PK-2 Years Old – 3rd Grade

Trilingual Students | Rigorous Academics Above Average Test Scores STEA2M for All

Nestled in the heart of Buckhead, Saint Anne’s Day School & Enrichment Programs is a Reggio-inspired preschool serving children ages 1-6. The Transitional Kindergarten is a fullday program and gives children with late spring and summer birthdays the gift of time before entering elementary school. A Spanish immersion program provides an introduction to the language through child-directed experiences. Before and Aftercare is available from 7:30-6:00, as well as classes such as Tinkergarten, PlayBall, and Dance.

Saint Anne’s is known for its innovative teaching practices and beautiful spaces. As part of the Saint Anne’s community, classes connect with the on-campus retirement community and engage in service projects with the church.

Inquiry and play-based learning inspire young learners and are at the core of the Saint Anne’s Day School Pillars: The image of the child as competent, The environment as a third teacher, and Documentation as a tool for learning and collaboration.

Begin Your Journey at Saint Francis

Saint Francis School is an independent, not for profit, college preparatory program, without any religious affiliation, serving the Atlanta Metro area since 1976. The mission of Saint Francis School is to provide a college preparatory program to students with diverse academic ability in a structured environment that is challenging and supportive. Kindergarten – 8th grades are located on the 24-acre Roswell Campus while the High School is located on the 47-acre Milton campus. The school’s commitment to small class sizes, low pupil-to-teacher ratio, and a strong emphasis on structure and organization allows students to enjoy success in academic areas and develop the self-confidence necessary to be successful in college. Curriculum offerings include AP, Honors, Traditional, Support classes and Academic Enhancement courses.

Specialized reading programs offered include Fundations®, Wilson Reading System®, Just Words® and supplemental support from Cars® and Stars® Reading Comprehension. Sports are offered at Grades 5 - 8 and high school (GHSA) including football, soccer, baseball, track, swimming, wrestling, softball, volleyball and equestrian. Learn more today.

Christian. Scholarly. Relational.

Seeds of Excellence Christian Academy (SOECA) in Atlanta is a beacon of Christian education, where scholarly pursuits and relationship-building take center stage. The scholars are steeped in principles of faith, compassion, gratitude, integrity, humility, and self-control. Striving for excellence in every aspect, SOECA embodies the love and acceptance of Jesus Christ, encouraging scholars to extend this compassion beyond the campus.

At SOECA, technology complements a robust academic curriculum, enhancing their scholars’ learning experience. The school firmly believes each scholar is born with a unique purpose and equips them with the necessary tools to realize their God-given potential. SOECA nurtures not only the mind but also the spirit, paving the way for a generation of purposeful scholars ready to make a positive impact. Learn more and schedule a tour at soeca.net.

6 weeks - Grade 8

7680 The Bluffs, Austell 30168 678-426-5560 l soeca.net

Saint Francis School is an independent, private school providing small class sizes, low student-teacher ratios, and multimodal instruction. Dyslexic students thrive through our specialized reading programs and executive functioning support.

SaintFrancisSchools.com

Education for Life

The mission of Seven Oaks Academy is to plant seeds where a child can blossom, explore and more ensuring that every student is kindergarten-ready. Founded in 1988, the school serves children from 18 months to 6 years old in Lilburn, Norcross, Tucker, Lawrenceville, and Stone Mountain areas.

Seven Oaks Academy is an AMS Member School and offers diverse platforms for creative learning, featuring authentic Montessori materials, MACTE-accredited trained Guides, and “next” practices with vegan and global meals prepared daily onsite by an Executive Chef and hands on music, art, dance, language (Spanish and Chinese) and cooking lessons to ensure student success. Their school promotes equity, ensuring all students will be equipped with the social and educational skills needed to thrive from “cradle to college.”

Choosing how your child will be educated is vital. Seven Oaks Academy is dedicated to helping families find the right fit.

18 months - Kindergarten

810 Indian Trail Lilburn Rd., Lilburn 30047 770-564-0470 | sevenoaksacademy.org Schedule Your Tour Today!

770-564-0470 sevenoaksacademy.org

810 Indian Trail Lilburn Rd. Lilburn 30047

Planting seeds where a child can blossom, explore and more!

Atlanta’s First Montessori School

As the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, Springmont offers students 18 months through Middle School an authentic Montessori education. Individualized, hands-on learning is balanced with social/emotional well-being, inspiring our diverse and inclusive community of learners to become creative, independent, and globally minded.

Multi-aged classes and specially designed materials are complemented by highly experienced and caring teachers who guide students’ curiosity towards meaningful, collaborative discoveries. Large, light-filled classrooms and a beautiful campus with natural areas, class gardens, and farm animals afford rich outdoor experiences.

Springmont’s Middle School prepares students for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools and life beyond academics. Opportunities to hone time-management skills, experience active leadership roles, and work both independently and in diverse groups allow students to become engaged learners.

Springmont School – Extraordinary by Design.

18 months – Grade 8

5750 Long Island Drive NW

Atlanta 30327

404-252-3910 | springmont.com

Start at Trinity, Thrive for Life

Established in 1951, Trinity School is Atlanta’s sole elementaryonly independent school and serves children age three through Sixth Grade. Students enjoy small class sizes, low student-toteacher ratios, play- and passion-based units of study, and flexible indoor and outdoor learning spaces on a beautiful 43-acre campus. Offering high-quality, multi-sensory learning in a nurturing environment, Trinity is known for its challenging academics, amazing arts program, and community that cares like no other.

Trinity School cherishs the magic of childhood, encouraging students to try things they never imagined and cheering mightily when they succeed. Students have ample opportunity to follow their interests and find their passions. With the support of teachers who are experts in elementary education, Trinity students gain a lifelong love of learning, confidence in their abilities, and strategies to adapt to new situations and an ever-changing world.

Age 3 – Grade 6 4301 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta 30327 404-231-8108 | trinityatl.org

Inspiring Tomorrow’s Leaders

Walker graduates are leaders who excel in a diverse and ever-changing world. Their students thrive in an environment focused on student-centered education. The result? Active, dynamic engagement in the learning process that excites students and gives them agency. They focus on creating and nurturing relationships and fostering a deep sense of community and belonging. They do all of this by creating a caring school community that is special, one that is diverse and one that fosters belonging and kindness. That combination is what differentiates Walker. Walker students reflect the world around them and are prepared for a future yet to be seen. Walker is located two miles from the Marietta Square and offers more than 20 bus routes in the metro area. Schedule a tour and learn more today!

PK3 - Grade 12

700 Cobb Parkway North, Marietta 30062 770-427-2689 | thewalkerschool.org

Change lives … Change the world

Wesleyan School believes faith and intellect are great partners with each other. At Wesleyan, it’s not a matter of choosing faith or intellect, but rather using both to create the best possible education for your child. The leadership and faculty work to provide students with a challenging atmosphere, reinforcing the value of hard work, and emphasizing character and integrity above accomplishment. Wesleyan School has made a commitment, in the midst of a rapidly changing culture, to never waiver on the core principle of dedication to Jesus Christ. This is at the heart of everyday life at Wesleyan as students learn and faculty strive to model the school J.O.Y. motto – Jesus, others, and then yourself.

Enrolling grades K-12, Wesleyan School prepares students for each stage of life and provides them the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them. Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area. Schedule a visit today.

5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners 30092 770-448-7640 | wesleyanschool.org

Woodward Academy, a national model in independent school education, thrives because of its people, the educators who devote their lives to our school, the leaders whose vision has made the Academy the most inclusive community of its kind in our state, nation, and even our world, and, most of all, the generations of students who have gone on to make our world a better place. Join in celebrating 125 years of excellence, character, and opportunity.

A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service, and earns more than $25 million in scholarship awards. Learn more today.

Caring for Parents and Students

APS is caring

Do you know a child who resides within the city of Atlanta in need of special education services? APS Department of Special Education services can open a window of hope for a brighter future for children and young adults identified with a disability or developmental delay.

Quality Education

Founded on the belief that students with disabilities will receive a quality education leading to meaningful academic, social, emotional and behavioral outcomes.

Partnering

APS Department of Special Education partners with parents to work together and ensure all children with disabilities achieve and are provided a continuum of appropriate, specialized services and supports.

Atlanta Public Schools • Dept. of Special Education Ages 3-5: 404-802-1690 | Ages 6-21: 404-802-2636

OCTOBER: Things to do this month

Native American Heritage l Festivals and Fairs l Day of the Dead Top Events l Halloween: Trick or Treating, Corn Mazes & More

Wallace & Gromit: Get Cracking!

Native Americans of the Southeast: History, Culture and Dance

Disney’s The Lion King

Truck-A-Palooza

The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Silly Hollow

OCTOBER TOP EVENTS

Events may be cancelled or changed after our deadline. Please check before visiting to confirm. Full calendar online at atlantaparent.com

Disney’s The Lion King

Fox Theatre

6 You Just Can’t Miss Armored Animals Day

Oct. 2-20. See website for showtimes. This musical showcases the live adaptation of the Disney classic movie. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $35+. foxtheatre.org

Fernbank Museum / Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Explore Fernbank’s special exhibit with animal ambassadors, an engineering challenge and more. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $25.95; ages 3-12, $23.95; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

Heavy Metal in Motion

Tellus Science Museum

Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

See big machines from helicopters to fire trucks to construction equipment, and enjoy kids’ activities, including geode cracking, a cookout and more. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $20; ages 3-17, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

by

Heavy Metal in Motion

Photo

Matthew Murphy ©Disney

Disney’s The Lion King

Armored Animals Day

WORTH THE DRIVE

The Wall That Heals Tour

Lumpkin County Veterans Affairs Committee

Oct. 31-Nov. 3

West Fest

Booth Western Art Museum

Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

See Native American dancers, gunfight reenactments of the O.K. Corral, birds of prey shows and more, and explore the children’s area for art activities, face painting and more. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. $16; ages 12 and younger, free. boothmuseum.org

This exhibit includes a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and a mobile education center with historical artifacts, personal stories and interactive displays. 99 Courthouse Hill, Dahlonega. 202-393-0090. Free admission. vvmf.org

Cont’d on next page

Air Dot Show Tour

Falcon Field

Oct. 26-27. Gates open at 9 a.m. Watch performances from U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, USAF F-35A Lightning II Demo Team, F-18 Rhino Demo Team and more. 1 Falcon Dr., Peachtree City. 770-800-2079. $32-$189. airshowatlanta.com

West Fest

Air Dot Show Tour

The Wall That Heals Tour

OCTOBER TOP EVENTS

Fairies in the Garden

Woodlands Garden / Oct. 5-19

Find artistic fairy houses made from natural materials hidden throughout the garden. 932 Scott Blvd., Decatur. 404-373-2222. Free admission. woodlandsgarden.org

Fall Family Fun

Atlanta Botanical Garden / Oct. 5-6, 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27, 10 a.m.-noon

These fall-themed activities will delight youngsters of all ages. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $29.95; ages 3-12, $26.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org

Twilight Trek

Zoo Atlanta / Oct. 10, 6:30-9 p.m.

Go on an after-hours tour to explore what animals do at night when the humans are away. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $27; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

Repticon

Gwinnett County Fairground

Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Oct. 20, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Explore vendors and animal displays, including Aquatic N Exotic, Classic Jurassic and more. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 863-268-4273. $10-$15; ages 5-12, $5-$6; ages 4 and younger, free. repticon.com

NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE

Appreciate the culture and history of Native Americans at these events.

Cherokee Tales

Aurora Theatre / Oct. 12, 11:30 a.m.

Explore the myths and history of the Cherokee Nation told through puppets with Piccadilly Puppets. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. auroratheatre.com

Native Americans of the Southeast: History, Culture and Dance

Riverside Park / Oct. 27, 2-4 p.m.

Explore the history and culture of Southeastern Native Americans with demonstrations of tools, weapons, clothing and practices. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-640-3258. Free admission. visitroswellga.com

Native American Festival and Pow Wow

Stone Mountain Park Historic Square

Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and Nov. 2-3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Enjoy this showcase of Native American culture through dance, music, authentic craft demonstrations, cooking traditions, wildlife presentations and more. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. $15.99+; parking, $20. stonemountainpark.com

Native Americans of the Southeast: History, Culture and Dance

SEE A SHOW

Watch the curtain rise at these special performances and dances.

Aladdin

Gas South Theater

Oct. 5, 3 and 7 p.m. and Oct. 6, 3 p.m.

Step into a world of wonder and enchantment with Sugarloaf Youth Ballet’s performance of this tale. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-813-7500. $15-$35+. gassouthdistrict.com

KIDZ BOP LIVE 2024

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre / Oct. 6, 4 p.m.

Make memories at the ultimate pop concert as you sing and dance along to performances of your favorite songs from talented kids. 2200 Encore Pkwy., Alpharetta. $28-$133+. kidzbop.com

Stellaluna

Roswell Cultural Arts Center / Oct. 18-19, 10 a.m.

Join Stone Lion Puppet Theatre as they present the story of little bat, Stellaluna, who is separated from her mother. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-641-3727. $12. roswell365.com

National Ballet of Ukraine

Cobb Energy Centre / Oct. 20, 8 p.m.

These world-class dancers will captivate you with timeless classics, including “The Dying Swan,” “Don Quixote” and “Giselle.” 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-916-2852. $45-$155. cobbenergycentre.com

FREE AND CHEAP

Youth Day Celebration

Historic Canton Street / Oct. 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Curious Cardinal Sifly Piazza, Woodruff Arts Center / Through Oct. 27. See website for showtimes.

A curious cardinal explores the changing seasons in this outdoor performance designed for ages 5 and younger. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4600. $12.50; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. alliancetheatre.org

This celebration includes a parade, art block, fall farm fun, touch-a-truck and food truck alley. Canton St., Roswell. 770-641-3727. Free admission. roswell365.com

Truck-A-Palooza

Town Center Mall / Oct. 5, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Climb a variety of trucks, including police cars, SWAT trucks, fire engines and more. Proceeds benefit the Cobb County Safety Village. 400 Ernest W. Barrett Pkwy. NW, Kennesaw. 770-852-3294. $5; ages 2 and younger, free. cobbcounty.org

North Georgia Live Steamers

Conyers & Hightower Railroad / Oct. 5, 1-4:30 p.m.

Go on a miniature train ride. For ages 18 months and older. 1632 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers. 407-207-5025. $2; cash only. northgeorgialivesteamers.org

Children’s Entrepreneur Market

Shop products made by kids with these cool vendor markets at these festivals. Free admission. childrensentrepreneurmarket.com

Great Pumpkin Fest: Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 7345 Cumming Hwy., Canton. Art in the Park: Oct. 26, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta. Duluth Farmers and Artisans Market: Oct. 27, 2-5 p.m. 3142 Hill St., Duluth.

UPS Second Sunday

Pinocchio!

Center for Puppetry Arts / Oct. 30-Nov. 10. See website for showtimes. Upcycled thrift store finds get a new life in this retelling of the tale with storytelling, mask work, object puppetry and more. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22.75. puppet.org

High Museum of Art / Oct. 13, noon-5 p.m.

Get creative with art-making activities, performances and access to exhibits. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free admission. high.org

Autumn at the Cabin

Pickett’s Mill Battlefield Historic Site / Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Enjoy demonstrations of period tasks, games and preparation for the coming of winter at this historical event. 4432 Mount Tabor Church Rd., Dallas. 770-443-7850. $3-$6. gastateparks.org

The Curious Cardinal

Truck-A-Palooza

Photo courtersy of Alliance Theatre

FALL FESTIVALS AND FAIRS

Explore metro Atlanta at these festivals and fairs with art, markets, live performances, carnival rides and more.

n Cumming Country Fair & Festival. Cumming Fairgrounds. Oct. 3-13. See website for schedule. Live music, attractions, shows, farm animals, local entertainment and a large carnival midway makes this event exciting. 235 Castleberry Rd., Cumming. 770-781-3491. $7; ages 10 and younger, free; ride tickets, extra. cummingfair.squarespace.com

n The Atlanta Fair. Grey Lot Turner Field. Oct. 4Nov. 3. See website for schedule. Play on tons of rides, and taste mouth-watering fair food. 688 Central Ave. SW, Atlanta. 772-266-9885. $5-$10; 42” and under, $3; ride tickets, extra. atlantafair.net

n Crabapple Fest. Downtown Milton. Oct. 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Shop more than 100 local antique and art vendors, enjoy delicious food, and watch football on the big screen. Crabapple Rd., Milton. 678-242-2500. Free admission. miltonga.gov

n Korean Festival. Sugarloaf Mills. Oct. 5, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Oct. 6, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Share in traditional Korean culture with music, dance and more. 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. $15-$30. koreanfestivalfoundation.com

n Westside Stride. Howell Mill Road. Oct. 6, noon-6 p.m. Enjoy a car-free afternoon of local arts, crafts, fare, live music, a Maker’s Market, pumpkin patch, petting zoo and family-friendly entertainment. Howell Mill Rd., Atlanta. Free admission. westsidestride.org

n Conyers Latin Festival. Olde Town Conyers. Oct. 6, noon-6 p.m. Observe the histories, cultures and contributions of people from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. 901 Railroad St., Conyers. 678-806-5677. Free admission. unidoslatinoassociation.org

n Georgia State Fair. Atlanta Motor Speedway. Through Oct. 6. See website for schedule. Petting zoo, camel rides, pig races, fair rides and more. 1500 Tara Pl., Hampton. $10; ages 5-12, $5; ages 4 and younger, free; parking, $10; ride tickets, extra. georgiastatefair.org

n Wire & Wood Songwriters Festival. Downtown Alpharetta. Oct. 11, 6-11 p.m. and Oct. 12, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Local and regional performers will showcase their own original work. S. Main St., Alpharetta. Free admission. wireandwoodalpharetta.com

n Lilburn Daze. City Park. Oct. 12, 9 a.m.5 p.m. Play games, grab a bite from food trucks, bounce on inflatables, watch entertainment and more. 76 Main St., Lilburn. Free admission. lilburndaze.org

n Stone Mountain Highland Games and Scottish Festival. Stone Mountain Park. Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Oct. 19-20, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore Scottish culture with colorful pipe bands, drumming competitions, Highland dancers, food and more. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 770-521-0228. $22.50-$25; ages 12 and younger, free; parking, $20. smhg.org

n Cumming Greek Festival. Saints Raphael, Nicholas & Irene Greek Orthodox Church. Oct. 18, 3-9 p.m.; Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Oct. 20, noon-5 p.m. Experience Greek culture with traditional food, dancing, bouzouki music, fireworks on Saturday and more. 3074 Bethelview Rd., Cumming. 770-781-5250. Free admission. cumminggreekfestival.com

n Loganville Autumn Fest. Downtown Loganville. Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate the local community with booths, entertainment from local dance academies and Battle of the Bands, food and more. Main St., Loganville. 770-466-1165. Free admission. loganville-ga.gov

n Auburn Fest. Downtown Auburn. Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy arts, food, live music, demonstrations, contests and inflatables and activities for the kids. 1369 4th Ave., Auburn. 770-963-4002. Free admission. cityofauburn-ga.org

n Brookhaven International Festival. Peachtree Creek Greenway. Oct. 19-20, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy a variety of live cultural performances, music, international cuisine, interactive art creation, a Kidz Zone and vendors. 1793 Briarwood Rd. NE, Brookhaven. 404-637-0500. Free admission. brookhavenga.gov

n Lakefest. Pine Lake. Oct. 19-20, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. This lakeside festival features art, music, food and fun. Lakeshore Dr., Pine Lake. Free admission. pinelakefest.com

n Crafts & Drafts. Downtown Smyrna. Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Oct. 27, noon-5 p.m. Cold beer, football on the big screen, arts and crafts booths, food and children’s activities abound at this festival. Spring St., Smyrna. 770-423-1330. Free admission. jrmmanagement.com

n Diwali Festival. Johns Creek City Hall. Oct. 26-27, noon-5 p.m. Join as a community to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights. 11360 Lakefield Dr., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free admission. johnscreekga.gov

WORTH THE DRIVE

n Georgia National Fair. Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agriculture Center. Oct. 3, 3-9 p.m. and Oct. 4-13, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Concerts, petting zoo, circus acts, fireworks and more. 401 Larry Walker Pkwy., Perry. 478-987-3247. $15; ages 10 and younger, free; ride tickets, extra. georgianationalfair.com

n Georgia Mountain Fall Festival. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Oct. 11-19. See website for schedule. Enjoy the scenery of the North Georgia Mountains, performances, arts and crafts, carnival rides and more. 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee. 706-896-4191. $7; ages 12 and younger, free; ride tickets, extra. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

n Gold Rush Days Festival. Dahlonega. Oct. 19-20. See website for schedule. Celebrate the historic discovery of gold in this city with arts and crafts, food, entertainment and more. 13 S. Park St., Dahlonega. Free admission. goldrushdaysfestival.com

n Helen Oktoberfest. Helen Festhalle. Through Oct. 27. See website for schedule. Celebrate German culture with live music, dance, food and more. 1074 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen. 706-878-1619. $10-$12; ages 6-12, $5-$6; ages 5 and younger, free. helenchamber.com

Westside Stride

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS

This joyful holiday reunites the living and the dead.

Día De Muertos Festival

Roswell Cultural Arts Center

Oct. 26, 3-7 p.m.

Enjoy Mexican food, crafts, entertainment and dancing, and visit a traditional altar honoring family and friends who have passed. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-641-3727. Free admission. roswell365.com

Halloween – Día de los Muertos

Plaza Fiesta / Oct. 27, 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Celebrate with candy, costume contests, music and prizes. 4166 Buford Hwy. NE, Atlanta. 404-982-9138. Free admission. plazafiesta.net

Haints & Saints –Day of the Dead Halloween Parade

Decatur / Oct. 27, 5 p.m.

Watch this spectacle unfold for a musical jam session and celebration. The parade steps off at 6 p.m. from the Bell St. entrance of the Decatur Cemetery. 229 Bell St., Decatur. 678-615-0915. Free admission. visitdecaturga.com

Festival del Día de los Muertos

Lawrenceville Arts Center Courtyard / Nov. 2, noon

Celebrate this cultural tradition with music, food and dance. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. Free admission. auroratheatre.com

Día de los Muertos Festival

Woodruff Arts Center / Nov. 2, noon-5 p.m.

This festival features stilt walkers, traditional music from ASO musicians, a mariachi band, dancers, food trucks, a children’s zone, face painting and more. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4800. Free admission. aso.org

Día de los Muertos

Woodstock Arts / Nov. 2, 2-8 p.m. and Nov. 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

This festival brings together the community with art, music and food. 111 Elm St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. Free admission. woodstockarts.org

Día de los Muertos Festival

Thrasher Park / Nov. 2, 5-9 p.m.

This night of remembrance includes dance, live authentic entertainment and a parade around the park. 93 Park Dr., Norcross. 770-448-2122. Free admission. norcrossga.net

Día de Muertos Festival

Oakland Cemetery / Nov. 3, noon-5 p.m.

Enjoy traditional dancing, crafts, Mexican food and entertainment, and view a display of altars honoring loved ones with flowers, food and beverages. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-314-4147. Free admission. instituteofmexicanculture.org

LEAF PEEPING

Fall in Georgia is a beautiful time of year. Head to these scenic spots around the metro area and the state for a gorgeous view of autumnal leaves.

SPOTS AROUND ATLANTA

The best part about these places? They’re free to visit!

Grant Park

On the Eastside, enjoy the mature trees lining the streets of Grant Park, a historic Atlanta neighborhood. The city’s oldest park is 131.5 acres of green space with mature trees and fall color throughout. Grant Park also has a great playground and walking trail. Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-521-0938. atlantadowntown.com

Oakland Cemetery

Part of the historic Grant Park community, Oakland Cemetery boasts rich history, beautiful gardens and architecture. Home to more than 1,400 trees, watch them flourish with autumn color. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-549-8932. oaklandcemetery.com

Roswell Mill and Historic Town Square

History is combined with seasonal foliage at the Roswell Mill and nearby historic square. Hike across the covered bridge up to a waterfall for pretty scenery before taking the less-than-half-a-mile walk to the square. 95 Mill St., Roswell. 770-641-3705. roswellgov.com

Piedmont Park

Get a view of a gorgeous canopy of fall leaves at Piedmont Park. From playgrounds to dog parks to trails, this park has everything your family needs for a full day of outdoor exploration. 1320 Monroe Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-875-7275. piedmontpark.org

Lullwater Preserve

Lullwater Preserve offers scenic walking and running trail loops within Emory University’s North Decatur campus. Follow the banks of the lake and cross a bridge to explore the ruins of a 1920s powerhouse. 1463 Clifton Rd., Decatur. 404-727-6123. hr.emory.edu

Tree Walk at Agnes Scott College

The college’s arboretum was relaunched in 2023 with a new version of the interactive map. Learn about native trees, explore biodiversity and more. 141 E. College Ave., Decatur. 404-471-6000. agnesscott.edu

Lake Allatoona

Spot gorgeous fall leaves on the water at Lake Allatoona. Head to the visitor’s center for a guide to the hiking trails for exercise and family photo ops. 1138 Hwy. 20 Spur SE, Cartersville. lakeallatoona.com

WORTH THE DRIVE

Go on a road trip for a scenic drive to these colorful spots.

Gibbs Gardens

See fall blooms and foliage at this 300+ acre house and gardens. Walk the property to discover 24 ponds, 32 bridges and 19 waterfalls, and view hundreds of varieties of plants, deciduous trees with spectacular color, wildflowers, azaleas and Japanese Maples. 1987 Gibbs Dr., Ball Ground. 770-893-1880. $25; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. gibbsgardens.com

Uhuburg

Visit a castle right here in Georgia! Climb to the top of Tower for a 360-degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and traipse the gardens and grounds for ponds, a Zen Garden, a vineyard, a greenhouse, an Interior Tropical Atrium and more. In the fall, see blooming seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as pumpkins, peppers, muscadine grapes, okra, squash, eggplant and tomatoes. 571 Ridge Rd., Helen. $35; ages 3-12, $25; ages 2 and younger, free. uhuburg.com

Brasstown Bald

Take a shuttle from the parking lot or walk the half-mile trail to the visitor’s center at the top of Georgia’s highest mountain at 4,784 feet above sea level. The circular observation deck offers 360-degree views of the Appalachians; on a clear day, visitors can see four states. 2941 Hwy. 180 Spur, Hiawassee. 706-896-4137. $8; ages 15 and younger, free. fs.usda.gov

Historic Banning Mills

Explore history and nature with a hike at Historic Banning Mills. Hike along Snake Creek, explore the ruins of the paper mill and walk on actual water raceways. Enjoy amazing views of Snake Creek Gorge and the conservation land with sky bridges. For an even more impressive bird’s-eye view of the leaves, consider a Zip Line Canopy Tour. 205 Horseshoe Dam Rd., Whitesburg. 770-834-9149. $7 per person; zipline, $59-$519. historicbanningmills.com

Rock City Gardens

See fall leaves and listen to music inspired by the hills and mountains of Appalachia at Rock City Gardens’ Fall Colors experience. New this year, visit the Stone Vista Garden for native sunflowers and wildflowers. Pretty artistic displays include hanging lantern sculptures, a Gnome Scavenger Hunt and pumpkins and hay bales for photo opportunities. 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain. 706-820-2531. $29-$37; ages 3-12, $19-$27; ages 2 and younger, free. seerockcity.com

Tree Walk at Agnes Scott College

Uhuburg

EXPLORE

GEORGIA’S STATE PARKS

Fall color is the focus when you visit these popular parks. Track autumn colors at gastateparks.org/leafwatch. Parking costs $5 at each spot.

Sweetwater Creek State Park

Packed with trees, this fantastic state park also features playgrounds, campsites and a yurt village. For a family-friendly hike, the one-mile Red/History Trail follows Sweetwater Creek to end up at the ruins of an old textile mill. Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871.

Panola Mountain State Park

Panola Mountain offers picturesque scenes of foliage throughout the park, as well as by the playground. At this 100-acre granite outcrop, spot the beauty of the season from the top of the mountain, and enjoy archery, geocaching, fishing, birding and tree-climbing programs. Stockbridge. 770-389-7801.

Don Carter State Park

Located on Lake Lanier, this state park features paved hiking trails, a paddling trail, fishing, horseback riding and more. Gainesville. 678-450-7726.

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Easy-to-reach overlooks make Cloudland Canyon a popular destination for leaf-peepers. The park has 64 miles of trails; choose from easy to challenging routes to enjoy the colors of the season. Rising Fawn. 706-657-4050.

Victoria Bryant State Park

Set in the wooded hills of North Georgia, this hidden gem boasts plenty of fall colors. Picnic, hike or fish in one of the ponds. Royston. 706-245-6270.

Smithgall Woods State Park

The park’s easy Wetland Loop Trail passes a beaver pond and wetland area, and the moderate Cathy Ellis Trail leads to a beautiful waterfall. Go trout fishing on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays starting in October. Helen. 706-878-3087.

Tugaloo State Park

With four miles of trails, see spectacular views of the 55,590-acre Lake Hartwell, and wind through oak, walnut, mulberry and cherry trees. The site also has a sand beach, tennis court, volleyball court, mini golf and fishing. Lavonia. 706-356-4362.

Leaf Watchers’ Trail

This curated route through some of Georgia’s less-crowded state parks highlights areas where the beauty of autumn trees are the most impressive. Color usually peaks in late October through early November.

n Victoria Bryant State Park. Royston.

n Indian Springs State Park. Flovilla.

n Watson Mill Bridge State Park. Comer.

n F.D. Roosevelt State Park. Pine Mountain.

n Chattahoochee Bend State Park. Newnan.

n James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park. Summerville.

n Moccasin Creek State Park. Clarkesville.

n Hard Labor Creek State Park. Rutledge.

n George L. Smith State Park. Twin City.

Panola Mountain State Park

James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Top 13 Picks for Halloween

Scarecrows in the Garden

Scarecrows Galore

l Scarecrows in the Garden

Atlanta Botanical Garden / Oct. 1-Nov. 3

Search for your favorite scarecrow from dozens of creations by local artists, youth groups, businesses and more. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $26.95-$29.95; ages 3-12, $23.95-$26.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org

A Reaping Good Time

l HarvestFest

Marietta Square / Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

This festival includes an arts and crafts show, contests, touch-a-truck, Halloween Happenings for kids and more. 50 N. Park Sq. NE, Marietta. 770-794-5606. Free admission. marietta.com

A Haunting Parade

l Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade

Little 5 Points

Oct. 19-20. See website for times. Parade: Oct. 20, 2 p.m.

This wickedly cool Halloween event features a parade, live music, a 3D haunted house, an artist market, ghost tours and more. Moreland and Euclid Ave., Atlanta. Free admission. l5phalloween.com

Party with the Animals

l Boo at the Zoo

Zoo Atlanta / Oct. 19-20 and 26-27, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Visit the Trick or Treat Lane, make themed crafts, play carnival games and more at this special festival for families. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $25.95-$30.95; ages 3-11, $20.70-$24.70; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

Terrific Theatrics

Have a frightfully good time at these celebratory events.

Call or check websites for more details; some events require advanced admission.

l The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Silly Hollow

Center for Puppetry Arts

Oct. 23-27. See website for showtimes.

In this comedic version of Washington Irving’s tale, schoolteacher Ichabod Crane helps the Headless Horseman find a new, spookier image. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22.75; ages 1 and younger, free. puppet.org

The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Silly Hollow

A Thriller Night

l Halloween Hikes

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Oct. 25-26, 6-10 p.m. and Oct. 27, 5-9 p.m.

Explore the forest to meet woodland creatures and hear about how they live, along with music, crafts, a campfire and festival fun. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $25; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Shocking Science

l Mysterious Halloween Science

Tellus Science Museum / Oct. 26, 6-9 p.m.

Use your detective skills to find hidden clues to help solve the case of the missing T-rex tooth. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $35; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

Mysterious Halloween Science

Music of the Night

l Family Concert: Halloween Spooktacular

Atlanta Symphony Hall / Oct. 27, 1:30 and 3 p.m.

Come dressed in costume for a spooky and cheerful Halloween concert. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4800. $20-$27+. aso.org

What a Treat

l The Great Trick or Treat

Atlanta History Center / Oct. 27, 1-4 p.m.

Celebrate Halloween with face painters, a magician, a train ride and trick-or-treating. For ages 10 and younger. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. $35; ages 3 and younger, free. atlantahistorycenter.com

It’s Lit

l Pumpkins at Callaway

Callaway Gardens / Through Nov. 2

By day, discover the Garden of Giants with huge pumpkins, wander the corn maze and more. At night, see hundreds of jack-o-lanterns light up with the Enchanted Pumpkin Forest featuring Foggy Hollow. 17617 US-27, Pine Mountain. 844-5123826. $24.99+; ages 3-11, $19.99+; ages 2 and younger, free. callawaygardens.com

Pumpkin Palooza

l Pumpkin Festival

Stone Mountain Park / Through Nov. 3

During the day, enjoy attractions and special fall entertainment with character meet-and-greets, storytelling, fairy tale scenes and more, and at night, watch a pumpkin tree lighting, glowing parade and a Pumpkin Drone & Light Show. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. $39.99; ages 3-11, $34.99; ages 2 and younger, free. stonemountainpark.com

Fun-for-All

l Kids Boo Fest

Six Flags Over Georgia / Through Nov. 3

This festival for younger kids includes Farmer Jordan’s Pumpkin Patch, the Monster Mansion Fun Zone, a Trick or Treat Trail, special characters and more. 275 Riverside Pkwy. SW, Austell. 770-739-3400. $45+. sixflags.com/overgeorgia

Autumnal Delights

l Buford Corn Maze

Through Nov. 3

Along with a fantastic corn maze, enjoy slides, duck racing, jumping pillows, hayrides, a corn box, pony rides, pumpkins and barn animals. 4470 Bennett Rd., Buford. $17.95; Combo Ticket, $29.95. bufordcornmaze.com

Boo at the Zoo

Kids Boo Fest

HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS

Scream with delight at these events with characters, candy, activities, autumnal fun and more.

Special Events

l Haunted Seas. Georgia Aquarium. Oct. 4-31. See website for schedule. Dive into new, interactive stations in Ocean Voyager, Tropical Diver and River Scout, and enjoy trick-or-treating on the weekends. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-581-4000. $39.99+; ages 2 and younger, free. georgiaaquarium.org

l Brick-or-Treat Monster Party. LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta. Oct. 6-31. Full of eerie excitement, this event includes viewings of “The Great Monster Chase! 4D,” Halloween giveaways, candy stations, exclusive snacks and more. 3500 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-848-9252. $19.99+. legodiscoverycenter.com/atlanta

l Spooky Mill. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Oct. 12, 2-9 p.m. Young children will love the bounce house obstacle course, carnival games, crafts and spooky stories, while tweens will go on a tour to find ghosts. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek. 470-598-7412. Free admission. johnscreekga.gov

l Buck’s Buckhead Haunted Cave. Buck’s Sports Barn. Oct. 17-31. Thur.-Sun. 6 p.m.-midnight. Get your scare on with this haunting cave with options for kid-friendly to adult horror. 2303 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-869-8003. $25. buckssportbarn.com

l Pop-in for Family Fun. Marietta History Center. Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy themed crafts and activities for Halloween. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. Free admission. mariettahistory.org

l Boo Bash. Alpharetta Community Center. Oct. 19, 5-8 p.m. Wear family-friendly costumes for a dance party, carnival games, treat bags and more. 175 Roswell St., Alpharetta. 678-297-6100. Free admission. awesomealpharetta.com

l Goblins in the Garden. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Oct. 20, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Show off kids’ costumes with the Goblins Runway, enjoy fall activities, go on a train ride and more. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $29.95; ages 3-12, $26.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org

l Howl on the Green. Downtown Duluth. Oct. 25, 6-10 p.m. This family-friendly event is a mystical night of Halloween adventure with sweet treats, great food, aerialists, iconic characters and entertainment. Main St., Duluth. 770-476-3434. Free admission. duluthga.net

l Spook and Splash. Bethesda Park Aquatic Center. Oct. 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m. This splashy bash includes a costume contest, crafts, candy and swimming. Reservation required. 225 Bethesda Church Rd., Lawrenceville. 678-277-0880. $10-$17. gwinnettcounty.com

l Howl-o-ween. McDaniel Farm Park. Oct. 27, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Celebrate wolves and coyotes with keepsake wolf prints, a storytime and s’mores around a campfire. Reservation required. 3251 McDaniel Rd., Duluth. 770-822-5450. $4-$7. gwinnettcounty.com

l Colony Kids On The Square. Colony Square. Oct. 29, 4-6 p.m. Play with crafts, games and more at this “Little Monsters Bash.” 1197 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-879-2250. Free admission. colonysquare.com

A Scarecrow Show

l Scarecrow Harvest. Downtown Alpharetta. Sept. 26-Nov. 2. The downtown area features more than 150 scarecrows from tons of local groups. Main St., Alpharetta. 678-297-2811. Free admission. awesomealpharetta.com

l Boo Y’all Scarecrow Contest. Historic Roswell. Sept. 27-Oct. 28. See this familyfriendly scarecrow display. Canton St., Roswell. Free admission. visitroswellga.com

l Scarecrow Invasion. Downtown Woodstock. Oct. 1-31. View inventive scarecrows from local businesses and groups. 8588 Main St., Woodstock. 770-9240406. Free admission. visitwoodstockga.com

l Scarecrow Contest. Campbellton Street. Oct. 1-31. See scarecrow creations from churches, organizations, businesses and families. Campbellton St., Douglasville. 770-949-2787. Free admission. artsdouglas.org

l Squarecrows In The Square. Historic Marietta Square. Oct. 4-Nov. 4. The square will be filled with creative, fun and colorful scarecrows from businesses, schools and groups from Marietta. 50 N. Park Square NE, Marietta. 770-794-5606. Free admission. mariettaga.gov

l Squarecrow Showcase. McDonough Square. Oct. 7-31. Tons of different scarecrows will come alive with fun designs, and you can vote for your favorite. McDonough Square, McDonough. 678-782-6230. Free admission. mcdonoughga.org

l SQUAREcrows. Historic Gainesville Square. Oct. 20-Nov. 2. See displays from businesses, non-profits and organizations. 112 Main St. SW, Gainesville. 770-297-1141. Free admission. exploregainesville.org

l Scarecrows in the Gainesville Garden. Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville. Oct. 17-31. Explore the woodlands stuffed with creations around the theme “Hallowings.” 1911 Sweetbay Dr., Gainesville. 404-888-4760. $14.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org

Petrifying Performances

l Sleepy Hollow. Jennie T. Anderson Theatre. Oct. 4, 8 p.m.; Oct. 5, 2 and 8 p.m. and Oct. 6, 3 p.m. The ballet version of this adaptation blends eerie atmospheric elements with expressive dance. A sensory friendly performance will be held on Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. 528 S. Marietta Pkwy., Marietta. 770-528-0881. $21-$39. georgiaballet.org

l Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Woodstock Arts Theatre. Oct. 4-20. See website for showtimes. An unjustly exiled barber seeks vengeance against the judge who framed him. For ages 12 and older. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $19-$23. woodstockarts.org

l Strand Ole Opry: Fa-BOO-lous Halloween Hits. Strand Theatre. Oct. 5, 8 p.m. Get in the spooky spirit with talented musicians and Southern storytelling. 117 N. Park Sq., Marietta. 770-293-0080. $25. earlsmithstrand.org

l Dracula: The Failings of Men. Atlanta Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse. Oct. 5-Nov. 3. See website for showtimes. This reimagining of Bram Stoker’s classic features fast-paced fights, aerial dance and spectacular effects in collaboration with Havoc Movement. 499 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-874-5299. $20-$24. shakespearetavern.com

l Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics. This musical experience features “Thriller,” the theme from “The Addams Family” and more performed by Listeso or Edgewood String Quartet. For ages 8 and older. Nobu Atlanta: Oct. 19 and 26, 7 and 9 p.m.; 3520 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta; $31-$57. The Chapel on Sycamore: Oct. 25, 7 and 9 p.m.; 318 Sycamore St., Decatur; $34-$61. Magnolia Hall: Oct. 31, 7 and 9 p.m.; 1322 Monroe Dr. NE, Atlanta; $30-$56. feverup.com

l Halloween Magic Show. Aurora Theatre. Oct. 26, 11:30 a.m. Watch magician Arthur Atsma perform in this Halloween-themed special. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. auroratheatre.com

l Witches Brew: An Afternoon of Jazz Enchantment. Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Oct. 27, 4 p.m. Listen to a curated selection of jazz for a bewitching afternoon of music. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-594-6120. $15-$20. roswell365.com

Bewitched by the Movie

l Movies On The Square. Colony Square. Oct. 3, 7-9 p.m. Watch “Halloweentown” on the jumbo screen, and grab takeout from an onsite restaurant. 1197 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-879-2250. Free admission. colonysquare.com

Cont’d on next page

Scarecrow Harvest in Alpharetta

HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS

l Scary Movies at The Strand. Strand Theatre. Oct. 3, 7 p.m.; Oct. 10, 7 p.m.; Oct. 17, 7 p.m.; Oct. 20, 3 p.m.; Oct. 24, 7 p.m.; Oct. 25, 8 p.m. and midnight; Oct. 26, 8 p.m. and Oct. 31, 7 p.m. This series includes screenings of “Scream,” silent film “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” “Hocus Pocus” and more. Come early for an organ pre-show. 117 N. Park Sq., Marietta. 770-293-0080. $12-$15. earlsmithstrand.org

l Movies by Moonlight. Heritage Amphitheatre Lawn. Oct. 4, 8:30 p.m. View “Halloweentown” for a fun experience under the stars. 6110 Blue Stone Rd., Sandy Springs. 770730-5600. Free admission. sandyspringsga.gov

l Movie Mondays. Cultural Arts & Community Center. Oct. 28, 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Watch “Hocus Pocus” for a family-friendly scary movie. 10 College St., Norcross. 770-448-2122. Free admission. norcrossga.net

Frightfully Fun Festivals

l Family Fall Festival & Trick or Treat Trot. Pinckneyville Park. Oct. 5, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. This family festival features games, raffles, food, face painting, STEM activities, a fundraising race and more. 4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Peachtree Corners. 404-943-1070. $35; Spooky Sprint for ages 9 and younger, free. eastersealsnorthgeorgia.org

l Howl-O-Weenie. Fowler Park. Oct. 5, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. This fundraiser includes dog-themed vendors, food trucks, music from a DJ, costumes and more. 4110 Carolene Way, Cumming. Free admission. dreamrescue.org

l The Great Pumpkin Fest. Cherokee Veterans Park. Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Celebrate fall with a DJ, craft vendors, food, hayrides, axe throwing, a costume contest, trick-or-treating and more. 7345 Cumming Hwy., Canton. 770-924-7768. Free admission. playcherokee.org

l Snellville Fall Festival. Snellville Towne Green. Oct. 19, noon-6 p.m. Play with inflatables, climb a rock wall, ride the train, participate in costume and dog costume contests and more. 2342 Oak Rd. SW, Snellville. 770-310-0429. Free admission; All Activity Kids Zone Arm Band, $15; pumpkin decorating, $2. experiencesnellville.com

l Halloween Jambooree. Logan Farm Park. Oct. 19, 3-7 p.m. Come dressed up for a spooky good time with games, rides, food, music, costume contests and more. 4405 Cherokee St., Acworth. 770-917-1234. Free admission. acworthtourism.org

l Shorty SpookFest. Shorty Howell Park. Oct. 26, 1-4 p.m. Enjoy carnival games, sweet treats and a costume contest. 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth. 678-277-0900. Free admission. gwinnettcounty.com

l Pumpkin Festival. Historic Courthouse Square. Oct. 26, 4-8 p.m. Enjoy fall festivities with a DJ, an inflatable corn maze, petting zoo, a Trick or Treat Village, pumpkin displays and more. 200 Courthouse Sq., Fayetteville. 770-461-6029. Free admission. fayetteville-ga.gov

Monster Mash, Center for Puppetry Arts

A Graveyard Smash

l Scaredy Cat Soiree. George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center. Oct. 4, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Dress up for a not-so-scary celebration with themed crafts, activities, characters and treats for ages 2-5. 55 Buford Hwy., Suwanee. 678-277-0910. $6-$12. gwinnettcounty.com

l Spooktacular Skate Party. Pinckneyville Park. Oct. 18, 7-9 p.m. This skate party includes a DJ, crafts, games, costume contests, candy and more. For ages 3-17. 4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross. 678-277-0920. Free admission. gwinnettcounty.com

l Monster Mash. Center for Puppetry Arts. Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. This Halloween dance party is filled with trick-or-treating, a DJ and more themed activities. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $12.50-$20. puppet.org

Haunts for Tweens

l The Dark Rows: Haunted Corn Trail. Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch. Sept. 27-28; Oct. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 and 25-26, dark-10 p.m. This nighttime adventure is only lit by the light of the moon for a spooky, haunted trail through the cornfield. Ages 12 and younger must be accompanied by a parent. 125 Bannister Rd., Dawsonville. 770-772-6223. $22. uncleshucks.com

l Paranoia Haunted House. Canton. Sept. 28-Nov. 2. See website for schedule. This haunted house features two indoor haunted attractions for the brave to try to conquer. 2075 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 404-387-3203. $25-$35. paranoiahaunt.com

l Four Scythes Haunted Attraction. Cumming Fairgrounds. Oct. 3-16. Dive into an eerie adventure with an unsettling ambiance. Recommended for ages 13 and older. 235 Castleberry Rd., Cumming. 678-341-0920. $20-$25. fourscytheshaunt.com

l Haunted Village at HLC. Hard Labor Creek State Park. Oct. 19, 1:30-9:30 p.m. Walk through the village filled with scenes of Halloween scares with a PG and a PG-13 tour. 5 Hard Labor Creek Rd., Rutledge. 706-557-3001. $10; parking, $5. gastateparks.org

l 13 Stories Haunted House. Newnan. Through Nov. 2. See website for schedule. This walk-through attraction includes a haunted house, Project Wasteland and Clown Haus Returns. 320 Temple Ave., Newnan. 770-251-9911. $25-$45. 13storieshauntedhouse.com

l Folklore Haunted House. Acworth. Through Nov. 2. See website for schedule. Haunting attractions include Winters Estate, Maze of Madness, Midway of Mayhem, The Casket Ride and Eerie Essentials. For ages 13 and older. 5389 N. Main St., Acworth. $29.99-$34.99. folklorehauntedhouse.com

Cont’d on next page

COME SYMPHONY WITH US

SUN, OCT. 27 | 1:30PM & 3PM

Come in your spookiest costume for a concert filled with musical tricks, treats and free pre-concert activities.

Get tickets starting at $24 at aso.org

HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS

l Fright Fest. Six Flags Over Georgia. Through Nov. 3. See website for schedule. Watch your back in the Scare Zones, walk through a haunted house and more featuring the scariest frights by night. 275 Riverside Pkwy. SW, Austell. 770-739-3400. $75+. sixflags.com/overgeorgia

l Netherworld Haunted House. Stone Mountain. Through Nov. 9. See website for schedule. Explore two thrilling haunted houses, “Wake the Dead” and “Mr. Grendel’s Birthday Party of Horrors.” Minimum age is 7. 1313 Netherworld Way, Stone Mountain. 404-999-3327. $25-$53. fearworld.com

l Georgia Tour Company. Senoia. See website for schedule. Explore the filming sites for “The Walking Dead” or “Stranger Things.” Reservation required. 53 Main St., Senoia. 770-599-0091. $25+. georgiatourcompany.com

l Escape Woods. Sleepy Hollow Farm. See website for schedule. This outdoor escape room adventure includes a themed “Stranger Things” game, navigating a cursed forest, discovering an antidote to a terrible virus or outsmarting hunters who are trying to find your group. Age recommendation varies on adventure experience booked; reservation required. 628 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Powder Springs. 770-880-8846. $28-$33+. escapewoods.com

Beyond Atlanta

l Ghost Train. Pine Mountain Gold Museum. Oct. 3-31. See website for schedule. Featuring a family-friendly hour, enjoy free candy and Halloween decorations before the track transforms into a rolling haunted house. Reservation required. 1881 Stockmar Rd., Villa Rica. 678-840-1445. $13. pinemountaingoldmuseum.com

l Voices of the Past – Lantern Tour. Jarrell Plantation Historic Site. Oct. 11-12, 6-10 p.m. Take a tour under the moonlight for stories of history and mystery. Reservation required. 711 Jarrell Plantation Rd., Juliette. 478-986-5172. $15. gastateparks.org

l Night of the Living Safari. North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park. Oct. 18, 5-6:30 p.m. Fall and Halloween activities include a safari drive thru, pumpkin toss, meet and greets with costumed characters and animals and more. 2912 Paradise Valley Rd., Cleveland. 706-348-7279. Free admission; donations welcome. northgeorgiazoo.com

l A Spooky Evening.

Victoria Bryant State Park. Oct. 25, 7-9 p.m. Participate in the campsite decoration and costume contests, watch a Halloween movie, and enjoy delicious food. 1105 Bryant Park Rd., Royston. 706-245-6270. $1-$5; parking, $5. gastateparks.org

l Ghost Train. Tweetsie Railroad. Through Oct. 26. See website for schedule. Go on a nighttime ride on the Ghost Train, watch the Palace Spooktacular Show, enjoy frights in the Haunted House and more. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, N.C. 800-526-5740. $60; ages 3-12, $40; ages 2 and younger, free. tweetsie.com

l Rails, Wizards & Spells. Tennessee Valley Railroad. Through Oct. 27. See website for schedule. Experience a trip through the enchanted forest for a ride to remember. Explore the special event Spell & Potions Afternoon Tea for added fun. 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028. $35; ages 1 and younger, free. tvrail.com

Ghost Train, Tweetsie Railroad

The Family Concert Series is made possible by the generous support of the Lettie Pate Evans Foundation.

Ghost Tours: Explore Atlanta’s Haunted History

Get into the “spirit” of the season with a tour of some of Atlanta’s most haunted spots! Some tours are available seasonally; check websites for schedules and ticketing information.

Covington Ghost Tours

Explore the haunted history of Covington as experienced “ghost guides” take you on a walking tour of the city. You’ll also see the filming locations of movie and television shows like “The Vampire Diaries,” “Dukes of Hazzard” and more. Tours are recommended for ages 12 and older. 404-455-1594. $30. covingtonghosttours.com

Decatur Ghost Tours

Professional medium and clairvoyant Boo Newell takes guests on tours that begin at Decatur’s town square, with stops at historic buildings and the Old Decatur Cemetery. Watch for apparitions, orbs and the spirits that haunt the city. 404-296-7771. $20; ages 10 and younger, $12. decaturghosttour.com

Ghosts of Marietta

Hear tales of the city’s past residents on a lantern-led walking tour of downtown Marietta — some refuse to leave! Other tour options include an interactive tour of the Marietta History Center and “Scaryetta” Trolley Tour, which visits several historic homes and cemeteries. 404-939-3460. Walking Tour: $20; ages 12 and younger, $15; Museum and Trolley Tours: $30-$100. toursofmarietta.com/ghost-tours

Roswell Ghost Tour

Learn about the spirits that haunt the antebellum mansions and buildings of historic Roswell on this walking tour. The tour includes a visit to Founders Cemetery, the resting place of Roswell King, and the Roswell Mill ruins. $20; ages 12 and younger, $10. roswellghosttour.com

Capturing the Spirit of Oakland

Explore and learn about the notable and notorious residents of Oakland Cemetery. Guided by costumed storytellers, the tour is designed to “enlighten, rather than frighten.” October 17-20 and 24-27. 404-549-8932. $45; ages 4-12, $30; ages 3 and younger, free.oaklandcemetery.com

Lawrenceville Ghost Tours

Professional storytellers lead walking tours of the city’s courthouse square, where paranormal activity is frequently reported. Step inside the Old Jail, built in 1832, and you may see, hear or feel the presence of past residents. 678-226-6222. $20; ages 11 and younger, $15. auroratheatre.com/haunted-happenings

A Tour of Southern Ghosts

Know before you go:

l Wear comfortable shoes as most tours involve a lot of walking.

l Tours may be too scary for some young children, so be sure to ask about age recommendations.

l Make your reservations ahead; tours sell out quickly during the fall season.

l Check websites for schedules and release form requirements.

l Bring a camera or your smartphone to capture any paranormal activity.

l Tipping your guide at the end of the tour is optional.

Take a lantern-lit walking tour of Stone Mountain’s historic square and hear fun and spooky ghost stories from professional storytellers. Tours are available the last three weekends in October. 770-469-1105. $13-$17; ages 12 and younger, $8; Parking, $20. artstation.org

Atlanta Ghosts

Explore Atlanta’s Midtown district on a tour that stops at some of the city’s iconic landmarks, and learn that even the most beautiful spots have a haunted history. 470-289-6124. $26-$31; ages 7-12, $16-$21; ages 5 and younger, free. atlantaghosts.com

Terror-ific Treats

Fill your bag with goodies at these special trick-or-treat events.

l Halloween Fest. Bogan Park Community Recreation Center. Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Go trick-or-treating on the trail, and enjoy crafts, activities and vendors. 2723 N. Bogan Rd. NE, Buford. 678-277-0850. Free admission. gwinnettcounty.com

l Spirits & Spice Festival. Downtown Newnan. Oct. 19, 2-7 p.m. Eat, drink and get spooky. Main St., Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free admission. mainstreetnewnan.com

l Fall-O-Ween Fest. Swift-Cantrell Park. Oct. 19, 3-7 p.m. Enjoy an evening of carnival games, a candy trail, costume contests and music. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free admission. kennesaw-ga.gov

l Dinosaur Trick-or-Treat. Fernbank Museum. Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Enjoy themed tables full of goodies, crafts and activities for candy collection. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $25.95; ages 3-12, $23.95; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

l Train or Treat. Southeastern Railway Museum. Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Enjoy trains, trick-or-treating, contests and more for family fun. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. $18; ages 2-12, $12; ages 1 and younger, free. trainmuseum.org

l Emily’s Trick or Treat. Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church. Oct. 26, 3-5 p.m. Explore more than 50 different trick-or-treat stations, dance to music from a DJ, play with bubbles and more. 471 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Sandy Springs. $5-$35. emilystrickortreat.org/atlanta

l Spooktacular Trick-or-Treat. AREA 51. Oct. 26, 4-6 p.m. Come in costume to trick-or-treat and enjoy the spooky décor on the mini golf course. 5100 Commerce Pkwy., Roswell. 770-518-0977. $9; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. a51fun.com

l Spooky Springs. Abernathy Greenway Park. Oct. 26, 5 p.m. Halloween fun includes trick-or-treating candy stations, a face painting station, music and food trucks. 70 Abernathy Rd. NE, Sandy Springs. 770-206-2022. Free admission. citysprings.com

Best for Tots

l Trick-or-Treat. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Oct. 19 and 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Get into the spooky spirit with trick-or-treating, hands-on play, a live DJ, candy and more. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $25. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

l HallowINK. INK Museum. Oct. 25, 4-7 p.m. Wear your costume for a night of trick-or-treating, games, food and more. Reservation required. 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. 770-536-1900. $18-$23; ages 1 and younger, free. inkfun.org

l Munchkin Masquerade. Main Street Newnan. Oct. 31, 10 a.m.-noon. This downtown trick-or-treat event is specifically for little ones. First Ave., Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free admission. mainstreetnewnan.com

l Halcyon at Halloween. Halcyon. Oct. 26, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Meet farm animals, go trick-or-treating, greet Spiderman and Barbie, have your face painted and more. Proceeds benefit Bald Ridge Lodge. Reservation required. 6365 Halcyon Way, Alpharetta. 470-223-3665. $20. visithalcyon.com

l Monsters and Movie on Main. Lilburn City Park. Oct. 26, 5-9 p.m. Trick-or-treat at the businesses along Main Street before entering the park with kids’ activities and a viewing of the animated “The Addams Family.” 76 Main St., Lilburn. 770-921-2210. Free admission. cityoflilburn.com

l Dinner & a Boovie. Town Center Park. Oct. 26, 5-10 p.m. Go trick-ortreating along Town Center Avenue, play on inflatables, watch movies and more. 330 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. 770-945-8996. Free admission. suwanee.com

l Trick or Treating. Town at Trilith. Oct. 26, 4-7:30 p.m. Enjoy trick-or-treating and fun activities at this Halloween-themed festival. 461 Sandy Creek Rd., Fayetteville. 678-369-5950. Free admission. trilith.com

Fernbank Museum

Halcyon at Halloween

l Fall Fest. North Point Community Church. Oct. 27, 9 a.m.-noon. Preschool and elementary school kids can wear their not-so-scary costumes to the Mega Awesome Costume Party, while middle schoolers will enjoy the Trick-or-Transit. 4350 N. Point Pkwy., Alpharetta. 678-892-5000. Free admission. northpoint.org

l The Great Trick or Treat. Atlanta History Center. Oct. 27, 1-4 p.m. Celebrate Halloween with face painters, a magician, a train ride and trick-or-treating. For ages 10 and younger. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. $35; ages 3 and younger, free. atlantahistorycenter.com

l Trick or Treat at Avalon. Avalon. Oct. 28, 10 a.m.-noon. Pick up a trick-ortreating map to stop by participating retailers for candy and treats. 400 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-2000. Free admission. awesomealpharetta.com

l Halloween Treat. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Oct. 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Come dressed in costume for free admission. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $20; ages 13-18, $16; ages 3-12, $14; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

l Trick or Treat on the Square. Historic Gainesville Square. Oct. 31, 3-6 p.m. Trick-or-treat at downtown businesses with costume contests for four different categories. 301 Main St., Gainesville. 770-535-6860. Free admission. exploregainesville.org

l Fall Festival. The Avenue West Cobb. Oct. 31, 4-6 p.m. Trick-or-treat from store-to-store, see pumpkins, enjoy balloon art, visit with movie characters and more. 3625 Dallas Hwy., Marietta. Free admission. avenuewestcobb.com

l Halloween Trail of Tricks & Treats. Rubes Creek Trail. Oct. 31, 4-8 p.m. Walk along the trail to enjoy music, characters, fun displays and trick-or-treating, and participate in costume contests. 232 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock. 770-5176788. Free admission. woodstockparksandrec.com

l Trick or Treatment Tour. Hemphill Water Treatment Plant. Oct. 31, 4-9 p.m. Tour the City’s drinking water treatment facility, and enjoy games, treats and a costume contest. Registration required. 650 17th St., Atlanta. 678-206-3813. Free admission. bit.ly/TrickOrTreatment2024

l Hapeville Community Trick-or-Treat Map. Hapeville. Oct. 31, 5-8 p.m. Locations across Hapeville will be participating in a trick-or-treat; see locations using the map. 404-669-2110. Free admission. hapeville.org

l BOO Fest. Lawrenceville Lawn. Oct. 31, 6-9 p.m. Collect goodies along the Treat Trail at this evening of thrills and adventure. 210 Luckie St., Lawrenceville. 678-407-6653. Free admission. downtownlawrencevillega.com

Trunk-or-Treats

l Trunk or Treat Fall Festival. Thurman Springs Park. Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wear your favorite costume to enjoy festive treats and fall fun. 4485 Pineview Dr., Powder Springs. 770-943-1666. Free admission. cityofpowdersprings.org

l Carvin’ in Crabapple. Broadwell Pavilion. Oct. 19, 4-7 p.m. Bring your own pumpkin to carve and decorate the best jack-o’lantern, before heading across the street for a trunk-or-treat with a costume contest, games, food trucks and more. 12615 Broadwell Rd., Milton. 678-242-2500. Free admission. miltonga.gov

l South Forsyth Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat. Vision Baptist Church. Oct. 19, 5-7 p.m. Celebrate with candies and treats, games, hot chocolate, warm cider and more. 355 Windy Hill Dr., Alpharetta. 770-881-8205. Free admission. visionbaptist.churchcenter.com

l Trunk or Treat. Johns Creek City Hall. Oct. 23, 6-8 p.m. Presented by Johns Creek Recreation & Parks and Johns Creek Police, wear your best costume to enjoy candy, treats and kids’ activities. 11360 Lakefield Dr., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free admission. johnscreekga.gov

l Truck or Treat. Brook Run Park. Oct. 24, 5-9 p.m. Wear costumes to collect candy, taste food from food trucks, explore Dunwoody Police vehicles and more. 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody. 678-382-6700. Free admission. dunwoodyga.gov

l Trunk or Treat. Dunwoody Baptist Church. Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-noon. Explore family-friendly fun at this community-wide event. 1445 Mount Vernon Rd., Dunwoody. 770-280-1200. Free admission. dbc.org

l Fall Festival. Fayetteville First United Methodist Church. Oct. 26, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wear your favorite costume for games, a cake walk, music and fun. 175 E. Lanier Ave., Fayetteville. 770-461-4313. Free admission. fayettevillefirst.com

l Trunk-or-Treat Community Event. Shallowford Presbyterian Church. Oct. 26, 2:30-4 p.m. Stop by different cars for sweet treats, and play fun carnival games. 2375 Shallowford Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-321-1844. Free admission. shallowford.org

l Trunk-or-Treat. Honeysuckle Park. Oct. 26, 5-8 p.m. Dress in your Halloween best for sweet treats, games and live entertainment. 3037 Pleasant Valley Dr., Doraville. 770-451-8745. Free admission. doravillega.us

Atlanta History Center

Truck or Treat, Brook Run Park

A-maze-ing Adventures

Solve your way through these corn mazes and enjoy other seasonal activities at these farms. Call or check websites for hours and availability.

l Lane Southern Orchards. Oct. 1-31. Visit for the six-acre corn maze, rubber duck races, an oldfashioned hayride and the Maize-O-Poly game to become the Farmer of the yEAR. 50 Lane Rd., Fort Valley. 800-277-3224. $5-$14; ages 4-12, $3-$10; ages 3 and younger, free. lanesouthernorchards.com

l Carlton Farms. Oct. 5-27. Explore the fiveacre corn maze, visit the pumpkin patch, go on a farm tour, see the baby animals and more. 1276 Cartersville Hwy., Rockmart. 770-655-1503. $15; ages 3-12, $12; ages 2 and younger, free. carltonfarm.com

l Pettit Creek Farms. Through Oct. 31. This annual fall festival features a corn maze and a hay maze, hayrides, a petting zoo, ring toss, scarecrow building, Cinderella’s carriage and more. Extra admission includes camel rides, pony rides, swings, feeding the animals, Euro Bungy or the Aerial Course. 337 Cassville Rd., Cartersville. 770-386-8688. $14.95; ages 1 and younger, free. pettitcreekfarms.com

l Copper Creek Farm. Through Nov. 2. This farm has giant and kiddie corn mazes, a zip line, wagon hayrides, talking pumpkins, a bubble barn, animals and more. 1514 Reeves Station Rd., Calhoun. 706-280-5592. $14.95-$28.97. coppercreekfarm.com

l Sleepy Hollow Farm. Through Nov. 2. Take a tractor ride around the farm, explore the corn maze, walk through the pumpkin patch, play games, see farm animals and more. 628 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Powder Springs. 770-880-8846. $12.13-$15.20; ages 2 and younger, free. sleepyhollowtrees.com

l Dickey Farms. Through Nov. 3. On the weekends, enjoy the corn maze, hayrides, barrel train, jump pad, pumpkin patch and more. 3440 Musella Rd., Musella. 478-8364362. $14.95; ages 2 and younger, free. gapeaches.com

l Cagle’s Farm. Through Nov. 3. Get lost in a corn maze or mini maze, play yard games, visit the animal barn, swing on the octagon swings and more. 362 Stringer Rd., Holly Springs.

470-533-9388. $15-$20; ages 2 and younger, free; pumpkins, extra. caglesfarm.com

l Southern Belle Farm. Through Nov. 3. Play in the corn maze, pick pumpkins, ride the cow train, shoot corn cannons, watch pigs race and more. 1658 Turner Church Rd., McDonough. 770-288-2582. $13.95-$22.95; ages 2 and younger, free. southernbellefarm.com

l Washington Farms. Through Nov. 3. Pick your own pumpkins and flowers, get lost in the corn maze, stroll through the petting zoo, jump on the jumping pillows, shoot a corn cannon, play on the pirate ship and more. 5691 Hog Mountain Rd., Bogart. 706-769-0627. $13.95-$28.95. washingtonfarms.net

l Jaemor Farms. Through Nov. 3. This full farm experience includes hayrides, farm slides, a pumpkin train, a mini corn maze, apple cannons, treats and the pumpkin patch. 5340 Cornelia Hwy. 365, Alto. 770-869-3999. $17-$20; ages 2 and younger, free. jaemorfarms.com

l Warbington Farms. Through Nov. 4. Wander the pumpkin patch and corn maze, along with hayrides, a mega slide, jumping pillows and more. Check the website for special events, the Magical Maze, Halloween Egg Haunt and more. 5555 Crow Rd., Cumming. 770-889-1515. $15.95; ages 3 and younger, free. warbingtonfarms.com

l Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch. Through Nov. 10. Walk the pumpkin patch, solve the 15-acre corn maze, play on Tire Mountain, launch the corn cannon and more. 125 Bannister Rd., Dawsonville. 770-772-6223. $17-$27; ages 4 and younger, free. uncleshucks.com

l Buford Corn Maze. Through Nov. 17. Along with this fantastic corn maze, go on a hayride, jump on the popcorn jumping pillow, view animals, ride ponies and more. Wander the Haunted Forest for family-friendly frights. 4470 Bennett Rd., Buford. $16.85-$29.95. bufordcornmaze.com

Buford Corn Maze

Pettit Creek Farms

Pumpkin to Talk About

Pick the perfect pumpkin to take home for festivities and decorations.

l Pumpkin Patch at Oakland Cemetery. Oakland Cemetery. Oct. 5-6, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Enjoy the autumn season and Halloween activities with a variety of pumpkins, a seasonal photo booth, pumpkin decorating and more. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-549-8932. Free admission. oaklandcemetery.com

l Randy’s Pumpkin Patch. Through Oct. 31. Explore this pumpkin patch with an inflatable obstacle course, train rides, kiddie jump, bunny petting zoo, face painting, an inflatable haunted house and more. 1460 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lawrenceville. 770-822-0676. Free admission; activity tickets, extra. randyspumpkinpatch.com

l Wargo’s Pumpkin Patch. Through Nov. 3. Visit on weekends to shop pumpkins, see farm animals, take fall pictures and more. Johnson Rd., Grantville. 770-377-8635. Free admission. facebook.com/wargospumpkinpatch

l Burt’s Pumpkin Farm. Through Nov. 10. Enjoy the cool mountain air of North Georgia as you shop more than 20 varieties of pumpkins, go on a hayride around the property, and shop the country store. 5 Burts Pumpkin Farm Rd., Dawsonville. 706-265-3701. Free admission; hayrides, $6.50; ages 2 and younger, free. burtspumpkinfarmgeorgia.com

l Scottsdale Farms. Through Oct. 31. From Fri.-Sun., enjoy hayrides, a corn maze, the sunflower field and more. The pumpkin patch is open daily. 15639 Birmingham Hwy., Milton. 770-777-5875. Free admission; activities, extra. scottsdalefarms.com

Randy’s Pumpkin Patch

BIRTHDAY

PARTY PLANNER

Buck’s Sports and Circus Barn buckssportbarn.com

Buckhead’s top spot for private parties and camps! More than 300 costumes and epic performers. Themes: Circus, Sports, Crafts, Superheroes, Princesses, American Ninja Warrior and more.

ALL ABOARD!

These scenic railroad trips make for the ultimate autumn experience.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

The Princess Room theprincessroomparties.com

Discover The Princess Room Spa Parties & More: enchanting spa experiences that empower and celebrate every girl’s unique beauty and spirit! Celebrate in an inclusive, fun environment, where every day is a fairytale!

Ready Set Fun! readysetfun.com

Leave the planning to us! From start to finish, Ready Set Fun ensures a seamless, stress-free party experience. You just bring the smiles! (404) 596-5566

Go on a nostalgic journey through the charming Appalachian foothills of North Georgia. Starting at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, take a round-trip journey along the Toccoa River to spot beautiful fall foliage. Fall Rides are available starting on Sept. 19, and you can purchase a two- or fourhour trip. 241 Depot St., Blue Ridge. 877-413-8724. $59.99-$74.99; ages 2-12, $45.99-$52.99; ages 1 and younger, free. brscenic.com

Tennessee Valley Railroad

Dream Friends Entertainment dreamfriendsentertainment.com

Birthday parties, corporate and themed entertainment. Favorite kids characters, circus, fire, holiday, DJs, dance acts and more for all ages at your location. Atlanta Based Since 2001. 275 entertainment options to choose from.

for birthdays, showers, community events, and more! Follow us on socials for news about holiday drop-off and events.

Uncle Jake’s Musical Concerts unclejakeshow.com

High-energy, interactive kids’ customized concert! Bubble machines, candy drops, and glowsticks. Enjoy upbeat live kids’ music, singing, dancing, with kids invited on stage. Perfect for ages 1 to 7. Book your fun today! 404-946-3480.

Explore the beauty of Chattanooga and Hiwassee with these train rides. Options include riding the Missionary Ridge Local for a short line train about local history; a 50-mile round trip through the Hiwassee River gorge with the Hiwassee Loop; or the eight-hour scenic journey to Copperhill, Tenn. with the Copperhill Special. Also, for a special event, consider the Homefront Tea Room experience, or starting on Sept. 14, the Rails, Wizards & Spells ride through an enchanted forest. For $6-$10, visit the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum for an interactive and historical experience. 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028. $24-$70; ages 2-12, $15-$55; ages 1 and younger, free. tvrail.com

Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

This historic train depot sits in the heart of Bryson City, N.C. Go on train rides for gorgeous views of Fontana Lake, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Nantahala National Forest, rivers, historical structures and wonderful fall foliage. Take the 4.5-hour Nantahala Gorge Excursion for views of the beautiful Nantahala River and Fontana Lake, or go on the Tuckasegee River Excursion for a four-hour trip to the historic town of Dillsboro. 45 Mitchell St., Bryson City, N.C. 800-872-4681. $59-$108; ages 2-12, $35-$81; ages 1 and younger, $0-$19. gsmr.com

Tweetsie Railroad

The Wild West Theme Park features a historic steam locomotive, live interactive shows, amusement rides, Deer Park Zoo and more. Two historic narrow-gauge steam locomotives are in operation: “Tweetsie” and “Yukon Queen.” A daily admission ticket includes a ride behind one of the historic steam locomotives, live Wild West-themed entertainment, the Deer Park Zoo, amusement rides and a chance to pan for gold. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, N.C. 800-526-5740. $60; ages 3-12, $40; ages 2 and younger, free. tweetsie.com

MUST-SEE EXHIBITS

Check out everything from T.V. shows to weather to history at these exhibits.

Armored Animals

Fernbank Museum

Oct. 5-Jan. 5, 2025

Dive into the history of animals connected by their use of armor with artifacts, displays, sculptures and more to explore the animal kingdom. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $25.95; ages 3-12, $23.95; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

Down in Fraggle Rock

Center for Puppetry Arts

Through Oct. 27

Go for a behind-the-scenes look into the history and making of the 1980s Henson Company classic T.V. show “Fraggle Rock.” 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50. puppet.org

Horizon of Khufu: An Immersive

VR Expedition to Ancient Egypt

Eclipso Atlanta Through Oct. 31

Explore iconic pyramids, decipher hieroglyphs, relive the reign of King Khufu and more. For ages 8 and older. 550 Somerset Terr. NE, Atlanta. 470-727-8652. $29+; ages 8-17, $26+. feverup.com

Naturally Artistic

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Through Nov. 30

Explore the connection between art and nature with local artists and art-making activities. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $20; ages 13-18, $16; ages 3-12, $14; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Panorama

High Museum of Art’s Sifly Piazza

Through Dec. 1

Interact with four kinetic pillars of glass as the monumental structures rotate to change light, transparency, color and movement. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free admission. high.org

SNOW: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact

Tellus Science Museum

Through Jan. 5, 2025

This interactive exhibit shows how snow shapes and sustains life on earth. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $20; ages 3-17, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

Wallace & Gromit: Get Cracking!

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Through Jan. 12, 2025

Step into the home of cheese-loving inventor Wallace and his loyal dog, Gromit, with STEM displays and projects. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $15.95-$19.95; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Patents: The Engine of Invention

Tellus Science Museum

Through Feb. 23, 2025

See several inventions in miniature to learn how patents helped inventors. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $20; ages 3-17, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

Titanic: An Immersive Voyage

Exhibition Hub, Atlanta Art Center

Through Oct. 31

Board the Titanic to explore life-sized recreations, artifacts, virtual reality experiences and more. 5660 Buford Hwy. NE, Doraville. $25.90+; ages 4-17, $19.90+; ages 3 and younger, free. expo-titanic.com

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Exhibition Hub, Atlanta Art Center

Through Oct. 30

This immersive digital art experience transports you into Vincent van Gogh’s paintings with virtual reality, atmospheric light and spectacular sound. 5660 Buford Hwy. NE, Doraville. $29.90+; ages 4-12, $17.90+; ages 3 and younger, free. feverup.com

Wallace & Gromit: Get Cracking!

Panorama

Titanic: An Immersive Voyage