Hello, local readers! Hot off the press is this week’s edition of our weekend guide, filled with the best things to do in and around Atlanta this Thursday through Sunday. As always, be sure to add anything we missed in the comments section. Enjoy your weekend!!

34th Annual Groundhog Day Jugglers Festival

Yaarab Shrine Center. Friday, 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.; Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.; Sunday, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (see website for hours/show times). Free; tickets for Night Cabaret are $5/person.

Whether or not the groundhog sees his shadow on Thursday, expect a celebration at the 34th Annual Groundhog Day Jugglers Festival. Complete with jugglers, unicyclists, hoopers, kendama, live music, and more for people of all ages, there’s no shortage of entertainment on the agenda. The main event, a juggling competition, begins at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday. Juggling workshops are on-going throughout the weekend, so make sure to check the official website for more information. Also, don’t forget to pick up your commemorative Groundhog Day Jugglers Festival t-shirt before you leave the exhibition!

More info and directions

Pocket Protectors & Other Fashion Statements

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant (Midtown). Saturday, 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. MIT Alumni Club members and guests, $10 advance; non-members, $15. (Recommended 18+)

Disclaimer: the event website clearly states that “this event is suitable for people with a degree from MIT and for people without one (normal people).” The 7th annual comedy show sponsored by the MIT Alumni Club of Atlanta features its fair share of brainiacs, including the Georgia Tech Finalists from the 2011 National College Comedy Competition and special guest/MIT Alumnus, Michael Dowe, but don’t let their intellectual prowess fool you; these brainiacs are some of the most talented comedians around!

More info and directions

photo credit: jimw

Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog!!!

Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Saturday and Sunday 10:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m. $12.75

An old favorite is coming to town! Clifford, the Big Red Dog is visiting Atlanta, sharing enjoyable activities with his fans. This exhibit will feature “Clifford’s Big Ideas” –ten value driven lessons that will help young children take on their world! And don’t miss the nine foot high Clifford with a tail to slide down, fun times at Bone Beach and the chance to create sand art!

More info and directions

Atlanta Comic Convention

Marriott Hotel – Century Center. Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. $5 (Go to website for $2 off admission coupon.)

This year’s Atlanta Comic Convention is sure to delight fans of AMC’s The Walking Dead. Actors Rodney Hall, Ashleigh Jo Sizemore and Dan Riker who play zombies in the popular TV show (which is filmed partially in Atlanta) will be on hand to sign autographs. Several comic book artists and writers such as Jason Pearson and James Burns will also be there to sign autographs. Door prizes will be drawn hourly.

More info and directions

Laughing Pizza VIP Concert Film Premiere

Georgia Aquarium. Saturday 11:00 a.m. Premiere only – $15. Premiere plus aquarium admission for adults – $34.95. Premiere plus aquarium admission for children – $28.95. Children 3 and under will only need a premiere ticket; they are able to go to the aquarium for free.

Laughing Pizza continues to delight children and parents alike with their fun pop music. Have your picture taken on the Red Carpet with Dad Billy, Mom Lisa and daughter Emily before you watch the premiere of “Laughing Pizza – The Concert Movie.” After the movie, Laughing Pizza will perform a few songs and hold a meet and great for their fans. If you purchase a premiere plus ticket, you’ll be able to explore the aquarium in the afternoon and go to the 3:30 p.m. showing of AT&T Dolphin Tales. A portion of all proceeds will go to The Georgia Aquarium’s SEA Program.

More info and directions

photo credit: FourthFloor

Vinyl Record Show

The Highland Inn Ballroom Lounge. Saturday 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Free.

Break out the turntable and get ready for this Saturday’s Vinyl Record Show. Browse records from all decades and genres while networking with other local collectors. Vinyl not enough? Come back at 9pm for live entertainment. Get a free ticket with any record purchase, or snag one at the door for $5.

More info and directions