Carmen's Picks

Beautiful Spring is here. As trees go green again and flowers blossom, the sign of renewed life is ever so present. The wonderful energy that nature sends out into the universe for everyone to breathe and energize oneself to enjoy this season. Here are my picks for April.

Festivals — Atlanta:

One of my favorite Springtime festivals is the Dogwood Art Festival in Piedmont Park. This nationally renowned fine art market is a delight to be enjoyed.

90th Atlanta Dogwood Festival
April 10–12, 2026
Website: dogwood.org

Dahlonega:

Here's a quaint music festival where musicians come together to share their talent playing old time and bluegrass music around the square. It also has an artist market and activities for children. So come enjoy this celebration of heritage and nature in Dahlonega.

Bear on the Square Mountain Festival
April 17–19, 2026
Website: bearonthesquare.org

Hiawassee:

Here is an ancient tradition that lives in the present day: the art of storytelling. There is nothing like listening to a story being told that transports you to somewhere else, that excites you, that enwraps your whole being. So visit beautiful Hiawassee and experience some great storytelling.

Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival
April 10–11, 2026
Website: gamountainstoryfest.org

Shows — Cumming:

Here's a good hilarious play that will have you laughing out loud.

Nunsense at FoCAL
April 23–25, 2026 & April 30–May 2, 2026
Website: focal.forsyth.k12.ga.us

Parade — Inman Park:

Here is a whimsical community event that you can enjoy and are welcome to participate in.

Inman Park Festival Gnome Parade
April 25, 2026 at 2:00 pm
Website: festival.inmanpark.org

Off The Beaten Path — Decatur:

For those who enjoy being transported back to renaissance time, The Resurgens Theatre Company is presenting:

Sir Thomas More at Pythagoras Masonic Temple
April 16–19, 2026
Website: resurgenstheatre.org

Wai Gong Fu Tea House:

A truly amazing gong fu experience. This unique and welcoming experience is led by its proprietors, who love to share their knowledge and passion for traditional Chinese tea. They offer an enlightening tea tasting that will keep you coming back for more.

Website: waisgongfutea.com

A Quote to Ponder:

"The only thing you sometimes have control over is perspective. You don't have control over your situation. But you have a choice how you view it."

Chris Pine

Mystery Dish:

See if you can find where this delicious dish is served. I encourage you to try this restaurant. You will not be disappointed. Here are some clues:

1. This delectable Mediterranean dish has poached eggs, a creamy labneh and a little bit of heat.
2. The establishment is welcoming with a friendly staff and amazing food.
3. It's located in Suwanee.
4. It shares a shopping center with a Super Target.

I'm curious to see if you find the mystery dish. Tell me the name of the dish and where it's served.