MEGAN DANIELLE
Shares a Season of Gratitude and Hope
ENTERTAINMENT
OUR VERY OWN "AMERICAN IDOL" ...
ARTS + CULTURE
MARIETTA POPS ORCHESTRA
FOOD + BEVERAGE
TASTE OF MARIETTA IS HERE!
Look and Feel Your Best!
Rediscover the joy of walking pain-free with expert vein care at Truffles Vein Specialists. Healthy legs, endless possibilities!
FIND RELIEF FROM:
•Varicose Veins
•Spider Veins
•Leg Swelling
•Tired, Achy Legs
•Heaviness or Fatigue
•Restless Legs at Night
•Skin Changes
•Stasis Dermatitis
•Pain in Legs during Menstruation
•Vaginal Varicosities
•Hemorrhoids
+ Award Winning Diagnostic Testing
+ Nationally Known Experts in Vein Care
+ Patient-Centered Approach
It’s a New Year and high time to stop suffering.
Call us at (678) 833-1444 Today! Get Screened and Give Back! Don’t risk your vascular health...
Scan here to make a $150 donation toward the GA Ovarian Cancer Alliance and schedule your
Investing in Each Other and Our Local Businesses.
Investment, by definition, is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking, with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things, such as our community, our relationships, our finances and our health, with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and organizations. We can serve the com munity through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets long-term financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.
The reason I created West Cobb City Lifestyle for our community is simple: to connect us with our amazing local business owners. My goal is to help us invest back into our neighborhood by supporting my advertising partners and helping their businesses grow. Without their support, I wouldn’t be able to bring West Cobb City Lifestyle into your homes every month. So, I encourage you to take a moment to support the wonderful locally-owned businesses right here in Georgia.
While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person. The effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and those we love. Such as dining at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, grabbing some amazing deserts from The Peach Cobbler Factory, Or visiting SunMed CBD to get a restful nights sleep.
MARCUS DICKMAN, PUBLISHER @WESTCOBBCITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Marcus Dickman | marcus.dickman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Donna Harris | donna.harris@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Andrew J. Bramlett | ajbramlett@outlook.com
Tran Bui | tran@buiproductions.com
Andrew J. Bramlett
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Have you had friends over for dinner or have you gone out lately?
Are you part of a group of friends that travels, paints, gardens, plays cards, etc.?
Do you have an exercise group that helps you maintain your indepedence?
Are you living in a maintenance free home?
As a couple, are you having the same needs as you age?
MARUKAN SUPERFOODS SALAD WITH TURMERIC-INFUSED DRESSING
Serves 4
FOR THE SALAD:
2 Cups Kale, stems removed and chopped
Olive Oil
2 Cups Quinoa, cooked
1 Cup Mixed Berries
(such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
1 Orange, peeled and segmented
¼ Cup Pomegranate Seeds, plus more for garnish
Chopped Basil Leaves, for garnish
FOR THE TURMERIC-INFUSED DRESSING:
¼ Cup Marukan Organic Rice Vinegar
Cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
1 Tablespoon Honey or Maple Syrup
1 Teaspoon Dijon Mustard
1 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric
Kosher or Fine Sea Salt and Pepper to taste
In a large bowl, massage the chopped kale with a drizzle of olive oil for a few minutes to soften it. Add the cooked quinoa to the kale, along with the mixed berries, orange segments, and pomegranate seeds. Toss gently to combine.
Prepare Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together Marukan Organic Rice Vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, ground turmeric, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Drizzle the turmeric-infused dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Plate the salad and garnish with additional pomegranate seeds and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Barber Middle School was crowned champion of the seventh annual Black History Bowl in February. 2: This team won gold in Cobb Chamber Staff Olympics, featuring games of strategy and knowledge. 3: K-9 Sparky and handler Officer Bedford are now on patrol with the Marietta Police Department. 4: Marietta has earned the prestigious Tree City USA designation for the 41st consecutive year. 5: Physical therapist assistant student Darion Knight was named Chattahoochee Technical College's 2025 GOAL winner. 6: The Acworth Business Association held its February Alive After 5 at Red Top Brewhouse. 7: The Cobb Chamber Government Affairs Committee spent time at the state Capitol in February.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
CREATIVE COWBOY
COBB CHAMBER
CITY OF KENNESAW
A person can be eating the right foods and exercising regularly, but if they are hormonally unbalanced, most likely they will not achieve their desired results.
How we feel is affected by hormonal imbalances, issues with our gut & digestion, liver function problems, our cortisol levels and insulin resistance, all effect how we feel and function. These are culprits of old age.
The solution is to be hormonally balanced taking out of the equation “for your age”.
We want you to have hormonal levels of a healthy young adult. If we get you feeling younger, you will start moving younger. When you start moving younger you will start looking younger. That coupled with guidance on nutrition and exercise will lead to a longer happier healthier life.
Cafe Coco Cuts Ribbon in Acworth
Mayor Tommy Allegood, Alderman Tim Houston, the city team and the Acworth Business Association hosted a ribbon cutting in February to celebrate the two-year anniversary of Cafe Coco in downtown Acworth’s Mill District. Cafe Coco is a coffee shop that serves specialty handcrafted drinks and is located at 4271 Main St., inside Hippie Kids. www.facebook.com/cafecococoffee
YOUR FUTURE IS OUR PRIORITY
At Bridger Law Group, we understand that life in Cobb County is built on hard work, family values, and community. When an accident threatens your well-being, you need an experienced team that fights with integrity and dedication. Our personal injury firm combines former judges, former insurance lawyers, and former government lawyers with a personal commitment to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Photography by City of Acworth
Britton Receives Chairman’s Award From Chamber
Outgoing Chairman Mike Plant, left, presented the 2025 Chairman’s Award to Chris Britton of Brasfield & Gorrie at the Cobb Chamber’s 83rd Annual Dinner in January. The award is presented to an individual who displays outstanding leadership, dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to the chamber. Britton, who has been an active board member since 2015, also took over as the chairman for 2025.
Photography by Cobb Chamber
KeKe’s Breakfast Cafe Open for Business
The city of Kennesaw welcomed KeKe’s Breakfast Cafe to the community with a ribbon cutting in February. KeKe’s kitchen uses fresh ingredients, including in-house ground coffee, hand-cracked eggs, fresh fruit and real butter and whipped cream, and everything is made to order. The cafe is located at 2090 Baker Road. www.kekes.com/ locations/kekes-kennesaw-walk
Photography by City of Kennesaw
Bulldog Estates RV Park offers a unique blend of comfort and security for the avid fan. Nestled in a serene setting, our park provides spacious RV sites with full hookups. Owners and guests can enjoy a variety of amenities to include well-maintained landscaping, high level security featuring real time cameras, and high speed WIFI streaming service. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, tailgate experience, or a base for your family adventures, Bulldog Estates RV Park is designed to make your experience both enjoyable and memorable.
CONTINUED
Celebrate Spring at the Big Shanty Festival
April 12-13
Usher in spring at the 49th annual festival, featuring a parade, 250-plus arts and crafts, 25 food booths, kids’ activities, puppet show, disc-catching dogs and live entertainment. The parade, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, includes floats, beauty queens, marchers, youngsters from various sports associations and local high school marching bands. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. www.kennesaw.com/ big-shanty-festival
Kennesaw Welcomes New Coffee Company
Mayor Derek Easterling and city staff members welcomed Cofy Kennesaw to the area with a ribbon cutting in February. Cofy Kennesaw is a passionate coffee company that aims to provide specialty coffee and is located at 1600 Kennesaw Due West Road. https://colcofy.com.
Photography by City of Kennesaw
Allegood Delivers State of the City Address
Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood delivered the annual State of the City address at the Acworth Business Association’s monthly luncheon in February. Allegood shared updates on recent city achievements, celebrations, up-and-coming projects and ways the Acworth community works together to create a great quality of life built around the city’s “You’re Welcome in Acworth” brand.
Photography by City of Acworth
INVESTING IN the Community
KENNESAW BUSINESS ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES
50 YEARS OF LOCAL SUPPORT
ARTICLE BY ANDREW J. BRAMLETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROL THOMPSON
Festival food booths
A little more than 50 years ago, a group of Kennesaw residents recognized the importance of investing in their community and banded together to promote the area’s future. These leaders formed the Kennesaw Business Association (KBA) in the 1970s, and, half a century later, it continues to advocate for local investment.
Though discussions about creating a business association seem to have begun in the early 1970s, the group was not officially established until March 15, 1975. Its first president was Dr. Frank Boone, a veterinarian who moved to north Cobb in 1969. A native of Virginia, Boone became very active in his adopted hometown, staying involved until his death in 2010.
Of the business associations across Cobb County, Kennesaw’s is one of the oldest. The Smyrna Business Association was founded in 1983, and while there might have been an Acworth Business Association as early as 1976, the current group was officially founded in 1984.
Being formed relatively early proved to be a major benefit for the KBA. Just a year after the group’s creation, the United States celebrated its bicentennial. KBA members used the celebrations for this national event to draw attention to their cause. In particular, they were able to create a new flagship event: Trade Days.
The idea originated with several founding members, including Carol Thompson, Jean Guess, Gayle DeSpain and Lynda Spence. In 1976, the event was held in the city hall parking lot and featured locals dressed in 19th-century costumes, several bands and vendors, many of whom sold antiques. During the first year, Trade Days was used to spotlight improvements around city hall, done in conjunction with the bicentennial. A mid-April date was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the Great Locomotive Chase. The festival has been held in April ever since and has continued to grow.
The Big Shanty Festival
The Big Shanty Festival parade
For decades, starting in 1977, the Civil War reenactments were a popular attraction for festivalgoers. Early events also included a Great Locomotive Road Race. Eventually, the festivities moved to the heart of downtown Kennesaw.
In 1984, the event was renamed the Big Shanty Festival, chosen at the suggestion of Carol McDonald, head of the Big Shanty Museum (now Southern Museum). Forty years later, it’s the city’s largest annual event. In 1995, it was joined by a sister event, the Taste of Kennesaw.
Since its formation, the KBA has worked closely with Kennesaw’s government leaders. In fact, Boone was on the city council about the same time he served as the KBA’s first president. The group’s second president, community leader Dale Burrell, also helped foster a close relationship between the organization and the city.
Through the years, the group also has sponsored public forums and council candidate debates and currently helps host and promote the mayor’s State of the City address.
Since its creation 50 years ago, the KBA has worked to create a strong business community in Kennesaw.
Just as important is the way the KBA has helped inform the area’s residents. In the 1980s, as people were growing curious about the new Town Center Mall, the KBA held public meetings to give residents a chance to learn about the new development.
Looking at prominent KBA members over the years provides a small window into the community’s business leaders. Boone has already been mentioned. Burrell owned BurrellCo, Kennesaw’s first manufacturing plant, and also owned and promoted several local businesses in the area. Burrell died in 2020, and the building that houses the Kennesaw Public Works Department was named in his memory. Since its creation 50 years ago, the KBA has worked to create a strong business community in Kennesaw. Arguably, its most successful endeavor has been the Big Shanty Festival, which now brings around 60,000 people downtown each year. This year’s event, held April 12-13, will have more than 250 vendors and 25 food booths. In addition, the Taste of Kennesaw now attracts 25,000 visitors.
The KBA has had a long-lasting impact on the community and plans to do so for years to come.
ROSWELL MUSIC FESTIVAL
HEADLINER DRIVIN N CRYIN WILL BE LIVE ON STAGE APRIL 26TH ON CANTON STREET
ARTICLE BY ROSWELL CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
“WE ARE VERY EXCITED ABOUT THE ROSWELL MUSIC FESTIVAL THIS YEAR”.
The highly anticipated Roswell Music Festival is set to return for its third year Saturday, April 26, bringing an unforgettable day of live music, community, and celebration to Historic Downtown Roswell. This year’s festival promises an incredible lineup, an expanded VIP experience, and continued philanthropic support.
Leading the music is the legendary Southern rock band Drivin N Cryin, known for their timeless hits and high-energy performances. Joining them on stage will be an eclectic mix of talented artists, including Frankly Scarlet, Canyonland ft. Michelle Malone, Cousin Curtiss, Dock Rock Radio, and Penelope Road. With multiple acts throughout the day, there will be blends of
rock, Americana, and jam band sounds that create the perfect festival atmosphere.
Beyond the music, Roswell Music Festival remains committed to giving back to the community.
Trew Rickers says, "We are very excited about the Roswell Music Festival this year. Each year our event grows in many ways and we appreciate the support of the business leaders in North Atlanta. Our event is truly a valuable way to support the local economy and give back to community. I am personally excited about our charitable partners this year as we support Shepherds Men, Hop on a Cure and Rock for Rescues It is going to be a special day people will not want to miss."
Shepherd’s Men is an organization dedicated to supporting veterans recovering from traumatic brain injuries and PTSD. Hop On A Cure supports research to prevent, reverse, and cure ALS, and Rock for Rescues, provides aid to local animal welfare organizations.
For those looking to enhance their festival experience, a limited number of Variant Brewing VIP tickets are on sale for $150, offering exclusive access to a private tent with premium spirits, comfortable seating, clean, air-conditioned bathroom trailer, catered food by Bask Steakhouse, and the best views of the stage.
• Location: The festival will take place at 37 Magnolia Street, Roswell, GA 30075, in a convenient and vibrant setting adjacent to Rock ‘N’ Taco.
• Parking: There is ample parking available across Atlanta Street at Roswell City Hall. There are also many church parking lots and street parking available on Mimosa Boulevard between Magnolia Street and Marietta Highway.
• Festival Hours: Gates open at 12:00 PM, and the music continues until 10:00 PM.
• Family-Friendly Event: Children under 10 can attend for free with a ticketed adult.
• Accessibility: The festival is ADA-compliant, with accessible entry and restrooms.
• Food & Drinks: Craft beer and wine will be available for purchase, and food will be provided by From the Earth Brewing.
For sponsorship and vendor opportunities, please contact info@roswellmusicfestival.com Reserve Tickets: https://www.freshtix.com/ events/roswellmusicfestival-2025 https://www.shepherdsmen.com https://www.hoponacure.org https://www.rockforrescues.com
OUR NEW MENU IS ALMOST HERE! From sweet to savory, we’re bringing you bold flavors and comforting classics with a delicious twist.
• Cheesecake in a Cup – 24 Ways! A whole new way to indulge in creamy, dreamy cheesecake with flavors to satisfy every craving.
• Macaroni & Cheese – Comfort food at its finest, rich, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
• Southern Savory Cobblers – Currently in 3 Delicious Flavors!
• Savory Chicken & Vegetables – A hearty classic with a golden, flaky crust.
• Italian Beef – Bold flavors packed into every bite.
• Savory Turkey & Vegetables – A comforting twist on tradition.
Fresh, flavorful, and crafted with care—your new favorites are just around the corner.
Order now at www.pasta.fun and bring exceptional pasta home. Free Shipping on orders over $75.00. www.pasta.fun • 337.419.0285 • 1301 E McNeese St, Lake Charles, LA • VB pastalabfun • pastalab@pasta.fun
WELCOME SPRING!
ARTICLE BY DONNA HARRIS
After 15 years, the Marietta Pops Orchestra has performed just about every genre of music imaginable, except one— hymns. So to shake things up a bit, founding conductor and Music Director Dr. Paul Hill decided to put together a program of pieces that are “about as Americana as you can get” for the group’s annual spring concert.
Marietta Pops Orchestra Expands Horizons With Concert of Hymns
Dr. Paul Hill
“(Hymns) are true pieces of American art and need to be broken out of the confines of church.”
“We have tried to cover as much variety as possible, but we have not explored a genre that has typically been covered primarily by churches: hymns,” Hill said. “Most of them were written by early Americans at times when they were enduring incredible hardships. They are true pieces of American art and need to be broken out of the confines of church and shared with the public. Yes, it’s a risk for us to try something different, but great sailing ships aren’t meant to stay in the safety of a harbor. They are built to sail into adventurous waters. That’s what we’re doing with this concert — venturing into an area that has been ignored and needs to be explored.”
Hill also had another reason for expanding the community orchestra’s musical horizons.
“I have also discovered that finding new arrangements of our usual spring fare was getting harder and harder,” he said. “After 15 years of performing our typical spring music, we are finding ourselves
repeating more titles than we want, so to break this cycle, we decided to just explore a different genre. It’s a risk we’re prepared to take to stay fresh.”
The 41-member ensemble will present “An Evening of Inspirational Music — Celebrating Great Hymns”
April 5 at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church Marietta, 148 Church St. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door or online at https://mariettapopsorchestra.org/
“In some ways, this really is a departure for us, and in other ways, it is right up our alley,” Hill said. “I have worked really hard to find exciting pieces to present to our audience and have covered just about every category I can think of, and now we’re venturing into a completely new area.”
Though the 90-minute family-friendly concert consists of hymns and takes place at a church, Hill said the group isn’t presenting a worship service.
“What we are doing, however, is that we’re exposing you to some of the most exciting and beautiful
orchestral arrangements you’ll ever experience,” he said. “(And) we present it in the location that allows us — without charge — to rehearse and perform. First Baptist Church Marietta has widely opened its doors to us for almost 15 years.”
As for deciding on which hymns to include in the concert, Hill said he compiled a list of suggested titles from past audience members, patrons and orchestra members, as well as his own preferences from his 45-plus years as a church musician.
“From those lists, I sought out the very best orchestrated versions of those hymns,” said Hill, now retired from church music. “Most people know hymns from their church life, where they may be played on an organ and/or piano and are sung. For this concert, I have sought out the best symphonically orchestrated hymns to perform.”
Besides the spring performance, the orchestra also will present its annual holiday concert Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church Marietta.
“In that concert, we hit all the fun holiday classics, from ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ to the classic ‘A Christmas Festival’ or ‘Sleigh Bells,’” Hill said. “The list of Christmas and holiday music that we perform is a long one and getting longer every year.”
This month marks a milestone for the orchestra, as it celebrates its 15th anniversary.
“Our first rehearsal was on April 12, 2010,” Hill said. “We started with about 50 members, and that number has pretty much remained consistent through the years. Of our current membership, 15 years later, we have about 20 members who started with us way back then.”
AMERICAN IDOL'S Megan Danielle
FOLLOWING HER FAITH ONE NOTE AT A TIME
“Combining music and worship is always a meaningful night, and I’m honored to be part of it.”
Megan Danielle’s rise to stardom might have hit a high note on American Idol , but her story started in Douglasville, Georgia, surrounded by her close-knit family and the simple joys of life. Growing up with two sisters and a brother, Megan’s childhood included watching her grandpa and uncles at the racetrack, playing corn hole, and spending time together.
“Family is so important to me because it’s a love like no other,” shared Megan. “I have felt such amazing support from them throughout my singing career. My grandparents meant everything to me. Losing my grandpa two years ago was tough, but I’m so grateful for the way he inspired me to be a better person and pursue music.”
Though she loved to sing, Megan was initially shy about performing. However, at 15, she mustered the courage to book her first show at a local restaurant, marking the start of her musical journey. From there, she performed at various venues, from local bars to community events, gradually building her confidence and honing her craft.
But it was one night after a performance when her grandpa offered advice that struck a different chord.
“He encouraged me to follow my calling. That’s when I decided to take a step back from performing for a while to focus on discovering myself, my faith, and what God had planned for me.”
That pause paid off in ways Megan could never have imagined. In 2023, a message from a producer on Instagram led to an audition for Season 21 of American Idol . The 20-year-old placed second in the competition.
“Being on American Idol was one of the coolest experiences ever. It was mentally challenging because I had
to learn to believe in myself and have confidence. I also learned so much more about my gift,” admitted Megan. “I was surrounded by endless talent.”
The experience opened doors that Megan hadn’t anticipated. Not only did it give her the chance to showcase a variety of musical influences—from Miranda Lambert to Fleetwood Mac—it also connected her to Sony/Provident Music, where she’s now signed as an artist. Her first official single, “Dream Girl,” has already captured fans’ attention, and she’s working on more music for future releases. “I’m writing with some of the best writers in the industry, and I can’t wait for people to hear what we’ve created,” she said.
Megan’s passion for music is apparent, but it’s her faith that drives her deeper purpose. “Faith is so important to me because without it, there’s no hope,” Megan explained. “I decided to include God in my music and my message.” That decision has shaped not only her career, but also the lives of those she’s touched through her performances.
Megan also performed in a free Pray for Our Country concert at Sunny and Ranney in Roswell. “Prayer is so important to our daily lives,” Megan noted. “Combining music and worship is always a meaningful night, and I’m honored to be part of it.”
Megan will embark on her first tour with Consumed by Fire and release a new single in collaboration with Sidewalk Prophets. Additionally, she joined Jordyn St. Cyr for a Christmas tour. Her first single with Sony/ Provident, titled “When I Found You,” was released on November 15.
CONTINUED >
“Your dream is never too small or too big,” Megan said. “Don’t quit chasing it, believe in yourself, and know that you can do anything you put your mind to.”
For Megan Danielle, music and faith are in perfect harmony. Every note she sings carries a message of hope, love, and the belief that no path is too far from God’s reach. “I want people to know they’re not alone,” Megan concluded. “If they feel lost, it’s never too late to turn back and trust in God.”
themegandanielle.com
Instagram: @megandaniellemusic
Facebook: Megan Danielle Worship
Megan and her grandparents
ARTICLE BY DONNA HARRIS
Tempt Your Tastebuds
SAMPLE LOCAL CUISINE WHILE CELEBRATING TASTE OF MARIETTA'S 30TH ANNIVERSARY
Sample cuisine from some of Cobb County’s best restaurants at the 30th annual Taste of Marietta, taking place April 27, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., on the Marietta Square. More than 50,000 people are expected to attend the family-friendly event, which is the county’s largest and longest-running food festival.
Activities include samples from 60+ restaurants (“tastes” from $2-$10), chef demonstrations, a kids’ zone, beer garden, live music and vendors. New this year are the Publix VIP Lounge — featuring live acoustic music, private bathrooms, hors d'oeuvres, an open bar and air conditioning for $89 — and the Georgia Grown Member Village, a showcase of vendors offering goods that are handmade, grown or produced exclusively in Georgia.
Proceeds benefit Visit Marietta, a nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging tourism by highlighting the city’s unique attractions and culture.
Gina Duncan, Visit Marietta’s marketing and public relations manager, shares the popular festival’s evolution.
Taste of Marietta became not only a showcase of culinary delights but also a celebration of Marietta’s rich heritage and sense of community.
How did the event get started?
Thirty years ago, Theresa Jenkins, the former director of Visit Marietta, started Taste of Marietta. As a visionary leader, Theresa saw an opportunity to showcase Marietta’s culinary diversity and community spirit through this event. It was her passion and dedication that laid the foundation for what would become one of Marietta’s most beloved traditions. It was the largest event organized entirely by Visit Marietta, reflecting its commitment to promoting Marietta as a destination for both residents and visitors alike. Taste of Marietta became not only a showcase of culinary delights but also a celebration of Marietta’s rich heritage and sense of community.
Why do you think it’s so popular?
The annual tradition of Taste of Marietta holds a special place in the hearts of the Marietta community for several reasons. First, it serves as a way to bring together residents, visitors and local businesses in a celebration of food, culture and community spirit.
Additionally, it showcases the rich diversity of culinary offerings within Marietta. From traditional Southern cuisine to international flavors, the event highlights the melting pot of cultures and culinary talents that make Marietta such a dynamic and vibrant community.
Taste of Marietta also fosters a sense of support for local businesses, providing them with a platform to showcase their offerings and connect with potential customers. This not only boosts the local economy but also strengthens the sense of community.
Lastly, the event creates lasting memories for attendees, whether it's discovering a new favorite dish, enjoying live music performances or simply relishing in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Marietta Square.
What restaurants will be there?
Restaurants are still registering, (but) these are definitely in: Carrabba's, Zama Mexican Cuisine, Sugar Shane's Gourmet Bakery, Taco Del Chavo. In the past, we have had most of the restaurants on the Marietta Square participating, and here are a few that I am sure will be in again: Dave Poe's BBQ, Copelands, the Melt Yard, Press Waffle Co., Williamson Brothers BBQ.
Information: 770-423-1330, https://www.tasteofmarietta.com/
APRIL 4TH
Acworth Celebrates Easter With Egg Hunt
Acworth Sports Complex, 4000 S. Main St. | 6:00 PM
The city of Acworth invites families to participate in the return of this fun community event. Egg hunts are timed and will take place between 6 and 8 p.m. Also enjoy games, crafts and a grand entrance by the Easter Bunny! For more information, contact Jordon Gonzalez at jgonzalez@acworth-ga.gov. https://acworth-ga.gov/event/acworth-egg-hunt/
APRIL 5TH - 6TH
Acworth Art Fest Returns This Month
Main Street, Acworth | 10:00 AM
The two-day festival will fill the Historic District with 100 talented artisans from across the country, selling their paintings, pottery, metalwork, folk art, glass, jewelry, yard art and more. Also featured will be a Kidz Zone and a food court. Hours will be Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. https://acworth-ga.gov/event/acworth-art-fest-2/
APRIL 5TH
Get Tickets Now For Bunny Breakfast
Ben Robertson Community Center, Kennesaw | 8:00 AM
Enjoy a buffet of pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, fruit and breakfast sweets with the Easter Bunny at Kennesaw's Bunny Breakfast. Everyone's favorite cottontail will make his way from table to table to visit the boys and girls. Seatings are available 8-9:15 a.m. or 10-11:15 a.m. Tickets are $8 per person and must be purchased in advance. www.kennesaw-ga.gov/parks-and-recreation/special-events
APRIL 15TH
Countywide
Job Fair Scheduled
Cobb County Civic Center, Marietta | 11:00 AM
The city of Kennesaw and Cobb County have joined together to invite local businesses and job seekers to participate in a Countywide Job Fair at the Cobb County Civic Center at 548 S. Marietta Parkway. The event will run until 2 p.m. Businesses that want to participate are required to register at https://secure.rec1.com/GA/kennesaw-ga/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM1MDcxMjQ=.
APRIL 19TH
Hop Into Spring at Bunny Brunch
Custer Park Sports & Fitness Center, Marietta | 10:00 AM
Register now for the city of Marietta’s annual Bunny Brunch, sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department. The family-friendly Easter event will feature activities, games, arts, crafts and photos with the Easter Bunny. The location is at 545 Kenneth E. Marcus Way in Marietta. Pricing is $4-$10. 770-794-5630, https://brnw.ch/21wQOhG
APRIL 26TH
Annual Fundraiser Will Benefit Acworth Arts Alliance
Logan Farm Park, Acworth | 5:00 PM
The Acworth Arts Alliance is partnering with the city of Acworth for Live at Logan Farm Park, an annual Acworth Arts Alliance and Acworth Art House fundraiser featuring a free concert that's open to the public. Proceeds will fund a scholarship for students pursuing an art degree as well as arts initiatives in underfunded programs. www.acworthartsalliance.org
