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4 years after closing, Barnes & Noble returns to Edgewood

The store will open at 10am Wednesday, July 8. Atlanta author Tayari Jones will cut the ribbon and sign copies of her new book, "Kin."

Business

Four years after closing its store in Edgewood, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Barnes &amp; Noble" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/02/01/barnes-noble-new-bookstores" data-vars-content-id="aba4f496-d8c4-4993-abcb-03870029df4a" data-vars-headline="4 years after closing, Barnes &amp; Noble returns to Edgewood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/02/01/barnes-noble-new-bookstores" target="_self">Barnes &amp; Noble</a> will re-establish its presence in the east-side neighborhood with a new store. Why it matters: The reopening is part of Barnes &amp; Noble&#x27;s plan to open dozens of stores this year across the country.

Georgia's new laws take effect today. Here's what changed

From school cell phone bans to shrimp labels, here's what's new across Georgia.

News

It&#x27;s July 1, which means it&#x27;s a new fiscal year and time for more than 100 new laws to take effect.In addition to the state&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$38.5 billion budget" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/04/03/georgia-legislature-sine-die-budget-taxes-transit-education-bills-2026" data-vars-content-id="02f953e2-cf80-4708-9005-1cbcb4b98654" data-vars-headline="Georgia&#x27;s new laws take effect today. Here&#x27;s what changed" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/04/03/georgia-legislature-sine-die-budget-taxes-transit-education-bills-2026" target="_self">$38.5 billion budget</a> coming online, the new laws include:⚖️ Lawsuits: Georgia property owners can sue local governments if they think their property values were hurt by a city&#x27;s failure to enforce certain laws, including those related to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homelessness" data-vars-click-url="https://atlpresscollective.com/2026/02/04/local-orgs-fear-further-criminalized-homelessness-in-hb-295/" data-vars-content-id="02f953e2-cf80-4708-9005-1cbcb4b98654" data-vars-headline="Georgia&#x27;s new laws take effect today. Here&#x27;s what changed" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://atlpresscollective.com/2026/02/04/local-orgs-fear-further-criminalized-homelessness-in-hb-295/" target="_blank">homelessness</a>, immigration and public safety.

Where to watch July 4th fireworks around Atlanta this weekend

From Stone Mountain to Truist Park, here's where to catch fireworks and other holiday weekend fun.

Things to Do

Put in your ear plugs, open your eyes wide, and celebrate America&#x27;s 250th birthday with some colorful explosions in the sky.Pro tip: Expect traffic delays and road closures early Saturday morning in Midtown and Buckhead due to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Northside Hospital Peachtree Road Race" data-vars-click-url="https://www.atlantatrackclub.org/peachtree" data-vars-content-id="11bceacb-4147-4609-9cd8-ee89e7e8b2ae" data-vars-headline="Where to watch July 4th fireworks around Atlanta this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.atlantatrackclub.org/peachtree" target="_blank">Northside Hospital Peachtree Road Race</a>, and in places where holiday parades and events are planned<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">🎆 Fireworks!</h2>Stone Mountain Park: One of the Southeast&#x27;s largest July 4th celebrations features a drones, lasers, music, and nightly fireworks. (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="through July 6" data-vars-click-url="https://www.stonemountainpark.com/" data-vars-content-id="11bceacb-4147-4609-9cd8-ee89e7e8b2ae" data-vars-headline="Where to watch July 4th fireworks around Atlanta this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.stonemountainpark.com/" target="_blank">through July 6</a>)

More Georgians now qualify for medical cannabis program

New rules allow stronger products, more qualifying conditions, and pharmacy sales across Georgia.

Georgia&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="biggest-ever expansion" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/04/01/georgia-medical-marijuana-expansion-hemp-delta8-thc-laws-2026" data-vars-content-id="9fb9e266-b657-4d6b-9b98-3372579ac610" data-vars-headline="More Georgians now qualify for medical cannabis program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/04/01/georgia-medical-marijuana-expansion-hemp-delta8-thc-laws-2026" target="_self">biggest-ever expansion</a> of its medical cannabis program takes effect Wednesday, allowing stronger products, more qualifying conditions, and sales through independent pharmacies.Why it matters: The changes significantly broaden access to regulated <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="medical cannabis" data-vars-click-url="https://dph.georgia.gov/low-thc-oil-registry" data-vars-content-id="9fb9e266-b657-4d6b-9b98-3372579ac610" data-vars-headline="More Georgians now qualify for medical cannabis program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://dph.georgia.gov/low-thc-oil-registry" target="_blank">medical cannabis</a> and may bring Georgia closer to neighboring Southern states&#x27; programs.<ul><li>Industry leaders believe enrollment may eventually triple.</li></ul>

Atlanta's first footgolf course opens in Candler Park

Play the links with your legs at Candler Park, where Atlanta is testing a new all-ages sport during the World Cup and beyond.

Sports

Footgolf, an all-ages sport blending the strategy of golf and the accessibility of soccer, has arrived in Atlanta.Why it matters: The Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation&#x27;s 9-hole <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="footgolf course" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cityofatlantagolf.com/footgolf-at-candler-park/" data-vars-content-id="1f54885c-774e-4580-b349-7297934dd162" data-vars-headline="Atlanta&#x27;s first footgolf course opens in Candler Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cityofatlantagolf.com/footgolf-at-candler-park/" target="_blank">footgolf course</a> in Candler Park is the first inside the city limits.<ul><li>The pilot program, which launched May 16, is part of Atlanta&#x27;s effort to capitalize on soccer&#x27;s growing popularity ahead of the 2026 FIFA <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/06/16/atlantas-world-cup-will-feel-more-like-a-festival-than-a-finale" data-vars-content-id="1f54885c-774e-4580-b349-7297934dd162" data-vars-headline="Atlanta&#x27;s first footgolf course opens in Candler Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/06/16/atlantas-world-cup-will-feel-more-like-a-festival-than-a-finale" target="_self">World Cup</a> and introduce more people to the sport. Or in this case, sports.</li></ul>

Weekend events: Juneteenth, Beltline Fest, Atlanta Dream

There's always something happening in the city.

Looking for something to do with your three-day weekend? We&#x27;ve got you covered: ⚽ Of course, we gotta mention today&#x27;s World Cup match between <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Czechia and South Africa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fifa.com/en/match-centre/match/17/285023/289273/400021440" data-vars-content-id="92d3f90c-8393-4614-b5f1-502e3a9f065d" data-vars-headline="Weekend events: Juneteenth, Beltline Fest, Atlanta Dream" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fifa.com/en/match-centre/match/17/285023/289273/400021440" target="_blank">Czechia and South Africa</a> at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The game begins at noon.

Atlanta's FIFA Fan Festival is open. Here's how to enjoy your experience

The FIFA Fan Festival in Atlanta includes places where you can grab food and drinks, listen to live entertainment and partake in activities.

Atlanta&#x27;s official gathering spot for FIFA World Cup 2026 opened Thursday, and thousands of people donning the jerseys of their favorite teams ventured to Centennial Olympic Park to kick off the opening ceremony.Why it matters: Thirty years ago, the city hosted the world at the same location where the 1996 Olympics were held in Atlanta. <ul><li>Now, Atlanta is among 16 cities across Canada, Mexico and the U.S. that are doing that exact same thing, Mayor Andre Dickens said.</li></ul>

Your guide to FIFA World Cup watch parties in metro Atlanta

You'll be hard-pressed to find an event that doesn't suit you over the next month.

The World Cup <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="has started" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026" data-vars-content-id="3bfb71f1-9d36-4dc1-ae3a-65e679f9da5b" data-vars-headline="Your guide to FIFA World Cup watch parties in metro Atlanta" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026" target="_blank">has started</a>, and you&#x27;re probably thinking about gathering a few friends and checking out a watch party around town. Why it matters: This is a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="once-in-a-lifetime" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/06/10/atlanta-fifa-world-cup-readiness-marta" data-vars-content-id="3bfb71f1-9d36-4dc1-ae3a-65e679f9da5b" data-vars-headline="Your guide to FIFA World Cup watch parties in metro Atlanta" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/06/10/atlanta-fifa-world-cup-readiness-marta" target="_self">once-in-a-lifetime</a> event for Atlanta, so don&#x27;t shy away from immersing yourself in the experience — and watching your favorite teams compete for the FIFA World Cup <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="trophy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/05/11/fifa-world-cup-trophy-tour-atlanta-mercedes-benz-stadium" data-vars-content-id="3bfb71f1-9d36-4dc1-ae3a-65e679f9da5b" data-vars-headline="Your guide to FIFA World Cup watch parties in metro Atlanta" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/05/11/fifa-world-cup-trophy-tour-atlanta-mercedes-benz-stadium" target="_self">trophy</a>.

Weekend events: Pride festivals, World Cup watch parties

There's so much happening in Atlanta. Let us give you the rundown.

With the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="FIFA World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/06/10/atlanta-fifa-world-cup-readiness-marta" data-vars-content-id="6fd492ee-7917-4777-aaa2-f0be19329ef2" data-vars-headline="Weekend events: Pride festivals, World Cup watch parties" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/06/10/atlanta-fifa-world-cup-readiness-marta" target="_self">FIFA World Cup</a> coming into town and other events on the books, there is no shortage of things to do this weekend.Here&#x27;s a quick rundown:⚽ Decatur WatchFest &#x27;26 kicks off today at 3pm with a free screening of the first World Cup match between Mexico and South Africa on the Square. (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Thurs." data-vars-click-url="https://decaturwatchfest26.com/event/m1/" data-vars-content-id="6fd492ee-7917-4777-aaa2-f0be19329ef2" data-vars-headline="Weekend events: Pride festivals, World Cup watch parties" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://decaturwatchfest26.com/event/m1/" target="_blank">Thurs.</a>)

Weekend events: Soccer ball juggling, butterflies, festivals

This is the final weekend to check out the third Atlanta Fringe Festival.

Don&#x27;t let the weekend pass without fanfare. Here are some events to fill that empty space on your calendar:🎤 Gillian Welch and David Rawlings headline the 10th Amplify Decatur Music Festival. (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Thurs.-Sun." data-vars-click-url="https://www.amplifydecatur.org/" data-vars-content-id="c3747ddc-88eb-49bd-a2f2-3de075833873" data-vars-headline="Weekend events: Soccer ball juggling, butterflies, festivals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.amplifydecatur.org/" target="_blank">Thurs.-Sun.</a>)

Atlanta to host food truck alley during World Cup games

Between 20 and 30 food trucks will be stationed along Walton Street between Centennial Olympic Park Drive and Broad Street on game days and a day before each match.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Food Truck Association of Georgia" data-vars-click-url="https://www.foodtruckassociationofgeorgia.com/" data-vars-content-id="3016d0d1-0955-43d8-8a6d-41178a22fdcc" data-vars-headline="Atlanta to host food truck alley during World Cup games" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.foodtruckassociationofgeorgia.com/" target="_blank">Food Truck Association of Georgia</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Showcase Atlanta" data-vars-click-url="https://showcaseatlanta.com/" data-vars-content-id="3016d0d1-0955-43d8-8a6d-41178a22fdcc" data-vars-headline="Atlanta to host food truck alley during World Cup games" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://showcaseatlanta.com/" target="_blank">Showcase Atlanta</a> is joining forces to bring dozens of food trucks to residents and visitors flocking to Downtown for the World Cup. The latest: The pedestrian food truck corridor called Global Grub Alley <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="is expected" data-vars-click-url="https://www.atlantaga.gov/Home/Components/News/News/15738/1338" data-vars-content-id="3016d0d1-0955-43d8-8a6d-41178a22fdcc" data-vars-headline="Atlanta to host food truck alley during World Cup games" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.atlantaga.gov/Home/Components/News/News/15738/1338" target="_blank">is expected</a> to feature 20 to 30 food trucks along Walton Street between Centennial Olympic Park Drive and Broad Street.

Atlanta weekend planner: Symphony, Fringe Fest, baseball

Richard Wagner, Tchaikovsky, farmers markets and live comedy.

Knowing is half the battle when you&#x27;re fighting the war on boredom. Here are great events to get you out of the house.🎼 Atlanta Symphony Orchestra music director Nathalie Stutzmann conducts Tchaikovsky&#x27;s Pathétique. (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Thurs.-Sat." data-vars-click-url="https://www.aso.org/events/detail/stutzmann-conducts-tchaikovsky" data-vars-content-id="1d2e10e3-4fe2-417e-b12d-f8c03425ef96" data-vars-headline="Atlanta weekend planner: Symphony, Fringe Fest, baseball" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.aso.org/events/detail/stutzmann-conducts-tchaikovsky" target="_blank">Thurs.-Sat.</a>)

Falling Water Park could be Atlanta's next fishing hole

Plans call for trails, boardwalks and fishing access near Campbellton Road and Therrell High.

An effort to turn a hidden forest and pond on the outer edge of southwest Atlanta into a new park is gaining momentum.Why it matters: The proposed Falling Water Park connects the community to 26.3 acres of deep woods and water a short walk from Campbellton Road.

Things to Do 🗓

Where to watch July 4th fireworks around Atlanta this weekend

Atlanta's first footgolf course opens in Candler Park

Weekend events: Juneteenth, Beltline Fest, Atlanta Dream

Atlanta's FIFA Fan Festival is open. Here's how to enjoy your experience

Your guide to FIFA World Cup watch parties in metro Atlanta