Break Away from the Heat: Popular activities happening around the city of Atlanta

Participants enjoy homemade ice-cream and other sweet treats at the 2015 Atlanta Ice-cream Festival.

As the final months of summer vacation come to a scorching end, it’s time to enjoy those last few weeks of relaxation before fall classes. Stay chill this month while enjoying a few cultural, visual and sweet tasting events happening in Atlanta.

When looking for a cool ways to enjoy summer, find events that take place inside or near shaded areas. Evening events are great, the temperature drops, making it easier to walk around and enjoy outdoor activities.

Rise of Sneaker culture

The High Museum of Art is featuring a new exhibition going on now until Aug.14, 2016. Learn more about sneaker culture and its artistic value while viewing archived Converse, Adidas, Nikes, Pumas and more. The interactive exhibit will have photos, concept sketches and videos that visually represent the evolution of sneaker trends and fashion.

For more information visit the museum’s website. Student discounts are available, with ticket prices starting at $16.50.

Short film festival

Filmmakers from around the world have come together to showcase their work. Enjoy a variety of short film genres such as comedies, animation, sci-fi, horror, drama, and thrillers in 45 minutes at Atlanta Shortsfest. On July 15 – 16, the film festival will take place at the Synchronicity Theatre.

A full program list for Atlanta Shortsfest is available online. Entry for the event, with a valid Student Id., is $5 per program and $20 for a day pass.

Atlanta Field Day

Field day is a day full of outdoor activities and games. With eight friends you can sign up for the Atlanta Field day. This year’s field day games include five leg relay races, tug-a-war, Giant Speed Pong a concept similar to beer pong and more. Prizes are awarded to the highest and lowest scoring team, and the team with the most spirit.

The outdoor event will be held at Historic Fourth Ward Park on July 16, 2016 from 12 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. For registration information, check out the Atlanta Field Day website.

Ice-cream Festival

Participants enjoy homemade ice-cream and other sweet treats at the 2015 Atlanta Ice-cream Festival.
Participants enjoy homemade ice-cream and other sweet treats at the 2015 Atlanta Ice-cream Festival.

Chill out, with an entire day dedicated ice-cream and wellness. A few scoops of yummy, cold goodness and more will be at the Atlanta Ice-cream Festival. There will be interactive activities such as eating competitions, fitness exercises, and jump rope. Learn more about healthy living at the Wellness Booth, offering free health screenings sponsored by the Fulton-Dekalb Hospital Authority.

The sweet tasting festival will be held in the Meadows at Piedmont Park on July 23, 2016. Visit the Ice-cream Festival’s website for information about activities and exhibits.

It’s never too late to make the most out of the summer break. There are plenty of events happening around the city of Atlanta, that offer alternative ways to escape the hot sun. Outdoor activities are still possible with the help of cold treats and a group of friends.