Reporter’s Notebook: Summer Shade Fest returns, Georgia STAND-UP honored, Blank Foundation gives

Summer Shade Festival returns to Grant Park

The 23rd annual Summer Shade Festival will bring two days of free, family-friendly activities to Grant Park on Aug. 23 to 24. Presented by and benefiting the Grant Park Conservancy, the event will feature live music, an expanded artist and vintage market, children’s activities and a 5K run.

This year’s lineup includes two music stages, Deep South Wrestling, and the Kids Bouncy House Village. More than a dozen food vendors will offer a range of options, from empanadas and hibachi to barbecue, Korean-style corndogs and frozen treats. New participants include Bun & Bites, La Escalera, Gekko Hibachi Food Truck and The Pickle Food Truck, joining returning favorites such as Belen De La Cruz Empanadas & Pastries, Ms. Pearl’s BBQ & Soul Food and Island