The Sleeping Beauty at Byers, a dance with Dad & January finally feels normal

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The holidays are officially behind us.

Hopefully by now, the tree is down, the leftovers are gone, and somewhere between the couch and the kitchen, we've started wondering what to actually do with ourselves again.

Good news: this is the weekend to ease back in after that first full week back at work. Thursday night brings one of those rare "get dressed up and do something special" moments with The Sleeping Beauty at Byers Theatre.

Friday's the daddy-daughter dance at City Hall. Guaranteed core memories for the K-5 crowd.

Saturday, the Dunwoody Farmers Market is back at Brook Run, which means fresh coffee, local vendors, and a reason to get out of the house early on a Saturday!

And if you need something quieter? Lost Corner Preserve is just sitting there.

Creek trails, old stonework, and the kind of January calm that feels like a reset button.

Bundle up. January mornings are still chilly. But the crowds are light, the air feels fresh, and honestly?

This might be the most peaceful weekend the Perimeter sees all year.

- Andrew

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Byers Theatre, City Springs
Thu, Jan 8
7 PM
From $70
Event Info

The stage lights are back on at City Springs, and this one's pure magic. The Sleeping Beauty returns for a single night of stunning dance and live orchestra, bringing Tchaikovsky's classic score to life in the elegant Byers Theatre.

If you've been looking for a reason to get dressed up and do something that feels special, this is it.

The performance features international ballet talent and all the fairytale elements you'd hope for: the curse, the century-long sleep, the prince, the kiss, the happily ever after.

Expect graceful storytelling, dazzling costumes, and a few jaw-dropping lifts that will leave even ballet first-timers impressed.

It's family-friendly but sophisticated enough for a proper date night or girls' night out.

The show runs about two hours with an intermission, so younger kids who can sit through a movie should do fine.

That said, this leans more "elegant evening" than "weekend matinee energy," so plan accordingly.

Pro tip: Grab dinner at The Select (just across the plaza) before the show and stroll City Green under the lights on your way in. They have a great happy hour and it's a great pre-show spot to get the party started. Plan to arrive early so you don’t have any parking drama! City Springs offers the first two hours free, but you do need to pay for parking after that.

Overall vibe: One of those nights that makes you feel like you actually did something new this week!

Weeknight dinners shouldn't feel like a scramble.

At Local Expedition, they don't.

The menu leans fresh and flavorful: pulled pork, chicken plates, roasted veggies, and house-made sauces, all served fast-casual style without skimping on quality.

You order at the counter, grab a number, and the food comes out fast enough that hungry kids don't melt down but good enough that you don't feel like you settled.

Everything is cooked over a wood flame, giving even the veggie bowls a little smoke and depth. The proteins are seasoned well and charred just right, and the sides (think rice bowls, fresh salads, and roasted sweet potatoes) actually taste like someone cared.

It's the kind of place where families gather after soccer practice and professionals duck in for a quick, guilt-free lunch.

The space itself is casual and welcoming, with a solid patio if the weather cooperates. It's not trying to be fancy, which is exactly what makes it work.

You can roll in wearing gym clothes or come straight from the office and feel equally at home.

Pro tip: Go early on Fridays. The patio fills fast, and it's perfect for mild January evenings. If you're feeding picky eaters, the build-your-own bowl option lets everyone customize without the usual dinner negotiation.

Overall vibe: Healthy-ish, fast-casual, and satisfying. The kind of spot you add to the regular rotation on a weeknight when you don’t feel like cooking.

Menu & Details

This cozy shop tucked just off Dunwoody Village Parkway feels like stepping into a Southern fairytale scene.

The shelves are full of charming stationery, small-batch candles, handmade jewelry from regional makers, and the kind of hostess gifts that make people ask "where did you find this?"

The owner Laura keeps the vibe relaxed and personal. She remembers regulars by name and will help you find a gift that actually feels like you picked it out, not like you grabbed the first thing you saw at a big box store.

If you describe the person you're shopping for, she'll walk you to three perfect options without making it feel like a sales pitch.

The inventory rotates frequently, so there's always something new to discover. You'll find everything from monogrammed baby gifts and custom jewelry to kitchen accessories and locally made soaps.

It's the kind of place where you pop in for one thing and leave with a bag full of "I couldn't resist" finds.

It's also a fun stop if you just need to brighten a gray afternoon. Something about wandering a shop full of pretty things with no agenda feels like self-care.

Pro tip: Valentine's inventory starts arriving next week, so check the back corner for early spring arrivals. If you're planning ahead for teacher gifts, baby showers, or hostess moments, now's a good time to stock up.

Overall vibe: Small-town charm in the middle of Perimeter. Ditch Amazon and Tik Tok shop and get out there and support local!

Website

Peachtree Corners continues to lean into its “testbed city” identity: the city was recognized by ITS Georgia for leadership and ongoing involvement in intelligent transportation systems - especially around education, volunteer service, and showcasing local smart-mobility work.

The recognition was presented to Public Works Director Greg Ramsey, and it highlights the city’s role hosting meetings and helping spotlight innovations (including at the 2025 ITS World Congress) - basically: Peachtree Corners keeps showing up as a regional hub for transportation tech.

Source: City of Peachtree Corners

Dunwoody is hosting an open house for the Georgetown Small Area Plan—a blueprint meant to guide future development and make the area more connected and navigable (walking, biking, transit, and driving all included).

The Georgetown area is generally bordered by Chamblee Dunwoody Rd (W), Cotillion Dr (S), Peachford Rd (E), and Brook Run Park (N)—including N. Shallowford and Dunwoody Park. The open house is designed to be hands-on and interactive (no formal presentation), and community feedback is a major input before recommendations get finalized.

Make your voice heard!

Source: Rough Draft Atlanta

Sandy Springs is inviting families to a free MLK community celebration at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center on Jan. 19 (1–4 PM). The centerpiece is an animated educational film screening of “Our Friend, Martin”, plus children’s activity stations designed to make the afternoon feel meaningful and doable.

They’re running multiple screenings (so you don’t have to time it perfectly), and City Springs parking is available in the underground garage (first two hours free).

Source: Sandy Springs

Peachtree Corners has a new official mascot, and his name is Percy the Chipmunk. According to his backstory (yes, he has one), Percy grew up in the North Georgia mountains where he was known for his speed, agility, and love of music. He spent his days organizing acorn hunts and hosting impromptu concerts under the stars before hearing about Peachtree Corners and its vibrant community scene.

Now Percy lives in a cozy tree in Jones Bridge Park, where he's earned the nickname "Party Starter" for leading twilight jam sessions and cheering on residents at local events. The city says he'll appear at festivals, fun runs, and school events to boost community spirit. His motto? "Life is a lot more fun when you have people to share it with."

Source: City of Peachtree Corners

These two are a package deal, and honestly, that's part of the charm. Minnie and Mickey are best friends who nap together, chase feather toys together, and share everything (except snacks, apparently).

They've been fostered through Catz 4 Life, Inc., right here in Sandy Springs, and they're ready for a calm, loving home where they can stay together.

Bonded pairs like Minnie and Mickey are a special find.

They keep each other company when you're at work, entertain each other with their antics, and tend to adjust to new homes faster because they already have a built-in comfort system.

Translation: less stress for them, less guilt for you, and double the purring on the couch at night (check out the volume on those purrs in the video!)

Both cats are domestic shorthairs, which means low-maintenance grooming and classic cat good looks. They're described as sweet, curious, and affectionate with humans. They're not the type to hide under the bed for a week when you bring them home; they want to be where you are, whether that's the kitchen counter (no judgment) or the foot of your bed.

Why adopt them? Double the affection, zero sibling rivalry. You get two cats for roughly the same effort as one, and you'll never have to wonder if your cat is lonely when you're not home. Plus, adopting a bonded pair means you're keeping a family together, which feels pretty good.

About Catz 4 Life, Inc.: This Sandy Springs-based rescue focuses on saving cats from high-kill shelters and finding them loving forever homes. All their cats are fostered in homes (not cages), so you'll get honest info about each cat's personality before you commit. They're a small, volunteer-run organization that genuinely cares about matching the right cat with the right family.

View their profile

🩰 International Ballet Stars: "The Sleeping Beauty" - Byers Theatre at City Springs (Sandy Springs) | 7:00 PM | Ticketed | More: Event page
A true “dress up a little” night—big fairytale energy, gorgeous costumes, and a rare one-night-only kind of outing.

🚶 Public Information Open House: Crooked Creek Trail Project - Peachtree Corners City Hall (Peachtree Corners) | 5:00-7:00 PM | Free | More: Event page
If you’ve ever wished for more connected paths/greenways, this is the come-see-the-plans-and-ask-questions moment.

⛸️ Skate City Springs (Ice Skating at City Green) — City Springs (Sandy Springs) | Multiple sessions (see schedule) | Ticketed | More: Booking calendar
Winter-rink vibes without driving far—great for kids, teens, or a low-pressure family night.

💃 Daddy-Daughter Dance - Sandy Springs City Hall (Sandy Springs) | 6:00-8:00 PM | Ticketed | More: City event page
A classic: twinkle lights, photos, and a “this is a core memory” evening for K–5 families.

⛸️ Skate City Springs (Ice Skating at City Green) — City Springs (Sandy Springs) | Multiple sessions (see schedule) | Ticketed | More: Booking calendar
If Friday’s your “we need out of the house” night, this is an easy win (and right by dinner options).

🏡 Great Dunwoody Estate Sale — Dunwoody (30338; address released close to event) | Fri | See listing | More: Sale info
Classic estate-sale treasure hunt: home goods, décor, and “maybe this is perfect actually” finds.

🥕 Dunwoody Farmers Market (Winter Edition) - Brook Run Park (Dunwoody) | 9:00 AM-12:00 PM | Free | More: Market info
The best Saturday rhythm: coffee in hand, local vendors, and a quick playground stop right there.

💃 New Year. New Waistline. Same Vybz. — 3435 Medlock Bridge Rd NW (Peachtree Corners) | 11:00 AM | See details | More: Event page
Caribbean / Afro-beat-inspired dance fitness—high energy, big playlist, “sweat but make it fun” vibes.

💄 Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Event at Ulta — Ulta Beauty (Peachtree Corners) | 12:00–6:00 PM | See details | More: Event page
In-store demos + brand guidance, with promos/gifts tied to whatever the event offer is that day.

🎨 DIY Crafts Corner - Politan Row at Ashford Lane (Dunwoody) | 2:00-5:00 PM | Typically free (food/drink extra) | More: Happenings
A relaxed, drop-in style afternoon—easy to pair with a “everyone picks a stall” late lunch. Great for kids!

⛸️ Skate City Springs (Ice Skating at City Green) — City Springs (Sandy Springs) | Multiple sessions (see schedule) | Ticketed | More: Booking calendar
Good daytime option if you’re looking for something active that isn’t a full-day commitment.

🎭 Improv for Kids! (weekly series begins) — Spruill Center for the Arts (Dunwoody) | Time varies (see registration) | Paid | More: Registration
A confidence-building, creativity-heavy class for ages 7–9—lots of games, quick thinking, and low-pressure fun.

🏡 Great Dunwoody Estate Sale — Dunwoody (30338; address released close to event) | Sat | See listing | More: Sale info
Classic estate-sale treasure hunt: home goods, décor, and “maybe this is perfect actually” finds.

🎷 Toast & Jam Jazz Brunch (Joe Alterman) — Byers Theatre at City Springs (Sandy Springs) | 1:00 PM | Ticketed | More: Event page
A “grown-up but still daytime” plan - music + brunch energy that feels special without feeling exhausting.

🧠 Thursday Thought Leaders: "The Future Begins with Z" (Gen Z at Work) - Hilton Atlanta Northeast (Peachtree Corners) | 11:30 AM-1:00 PM | $34 members / $40 nonmembers (includes lunch) | More: Event page
A smart midday reset if you manage people (or just want better language for working with younger teams).

🎤 Thursday Karaoke (if you missed it, make it a Dunwoody night anyway) - Politan Row at Ashford Lane (Dunwoody) | 7:00-11:00 PM (Thu only) | Free | More: Happenings
Group-friends friendly: show up when you want, sing if you want, snack regardless.

🃏 Magic: The Gathering — Commander Night — Battle & Brew (Sandy Springs) | Time on event page | Typically free to join (food/drink extra) | More: Upcoming events
Low-key competitive, very “regulars welcome,” and an easy way to turn a Thursday into a plan.

🧙 Dungeons & Drafts (D&D Campaign Night) — Battle & Brew (Sandy Springs) | Time on event page | Ticketed / reservation-based | More: Upcoming events
A fun, structured night out - especially if your friend group loves games but wants a real hosted experience.

🍾 Minis & Mimosas (Brunch + Paint & Sip) — Battle & Brew (Sandy Springs) | Time on event page | Ticketed | More: Upcoming events
Brunch with an activity baked in—ideal if you want “we did something” without a late night.

🎮 Power Hour Gaming (Weekend Mornings) — Battle & Brew (Sandy Springs) | Time on event page | Typically free to join (food/drink extra) | More: Upcoming events
A chill Sunday reset: coffee + games + a reason to leave the house before the Sunday scaries hit.

Google Map | Park details | Trail map + info

If Morgan Falls is the “big river views” park, Lost Corner Preserve is the small, peaceful reset: shaded trails, a little creek, old stonework tucked into the woods, and just enough “explore” energy to make it feel like you actually went somewhere. Even though you’re still very much in Sandy Springs.

Start slow: this is a stroll-and-notice-things spot, not a “crush a workout” trail. The preserve has just under a mile of trails, including a short loop, a longer option, and an ADA-accessible path (perfect if you’re pushing a stroller or want something easy and flat).

This is where Lost Corner feels special: it’s not just trails. It’s a preserve with personality. Wander over to the community garden and greenhouse area, then head back into the woods for the quieter paths. It’s a great “two-hour outing” that doesn’t require reservations, money, or much planning—just layers and decent shoes.

For kids (or adults who like a mission):

Overall vibe: quiet, local, and oddly soothing—exactly what the “first real weekend of January” is supposed to feel like.

If you’ve never turned it before, label it. During a real leak situation, seconds matter - and you don’t want to be playing “which valve is this?”

Toss this in a bin under the sink: a small wrench/pliers, a roll of towels, a cheap shower curtain liner (for quick floor protection), and a sharpie + painter’s tape for labeling.

Note - As someone who has had a big leak (and big insurance claim) I cannot recommend leak detectors more. They’re small, cheap devices you put in areas that are prone to leaks (like under cabinets) that make big noise when moisture is detected. Mine have now saved me several times!

I prefer the Govee brand - They’re on amazon!

The Dunwoody Plumber (Tom Connolly)
Master plumber serving Dunwoody + nearby (repairs, water heaters, drains, leak help).(770) 551-1111
Website

Atlanta Leak Detection (Atlantis Plumbing)
Non-invasive leak detection + leak repair (slab/hidden/yard leaks) serving Sandy Springs
(770) 505-8570
Website

Integrity Restoration & Remodeling
24/7 emergency water extraction + drying + restoration/repairs serving Peachtree Corners
(770) 966-9987
Website

If you’re hiring, job hunting, or helping a teen find something part-time, these are the cleanest local starting points: