Soapbox racing in Atlanta

This Saturday, August 29th, Red Bull is hosting the first of two of their soapbox races in the U.S. this year. At 11am the pits open on 10th Street at Piedmont Park for over forty racing teams. This is sure to be a fun and unique events as teams are not only judged on racing speed but also creativity. So expect to see some funky and fun things! The event is free but be aware that parking in the area will be limited so plan ahead. For more information on the event go to www.redbullsoapboxusa.com/Atlanta-2009/default.aspx.

Fruits of Summer

Time to get in some visits to your local Farmer's Markets! Many of the local, small farmer's markets close in the fall. If you've not yet been to one near you, give it a try. Many of the ones around metro-Atlanta offer a nice selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables that are much cheaper than in the groceries stores. Aside from produce, most markets offer an array of goods including cheeses, plants, herbs, baked goods, jams, soaps and so on all made or grown by local vendors. It's a fun and leisurely way to start your weekend! Here's a list of farmer's markets open on Saturdays:

Riverside Farmer's Market, Roswell, GA: open every Saturday through September 5th from 8am to 12pm. 575 Riverside Drive, Roswell, GA 30350. This market is held at the new Riverside Park on the Chattahoochee and has a variety of vendors. At my last count, there were over forty vendors including an acoustic performing duo. Expect some crowds as this is held at a popular park so parking is limited but definitely worth checking out.

Alpharetta Farmer's Market, Alpharetta, GA: open every Saturday through October 24th from 8am to 12:30pm. Downtown Alpharetta near the intersection of Milton Avenue and South Main Street. Great produce and potted herbs at this market. Some wonderful soaps, a few other interesting vendors and a man selling coffee. Plenty of free parking.

Marietta Square Farmer's Market, Marietta, GA: open every Saturday through December from 9am to 12pm. Held at the Historic Marietta Square, wide array of vendors and plenty of free parking.

Morningside Farmer' Market, Atlanta, GA: open every Saturday through December from 8am to 11:30am. 1393 N. Highland Ave Atlanta, GA, 30306 across the street from Alon's Bakery in Virginia Highlands. All vendors must be certified organic to participate.

Other notable Farmer's Markets that take place on weekdays are Dunwoody Spruill Green Market, Kennesaw Farmer's Market, Whistle Stop Farmer's Market in Norcross, Decatur Organic Farmer's Market and East Atlanta Village Farmer's Market.