Good morning, Alpharetta.

Workers began tearing down the 28-year-old Wacky World Playground on Oct.

1 to make way for a new, safer 17,300 square foot play area built with a $29.5 million parks bond. The new playground will feature a longer zipline and a rubber floor safe for wheelchairs (costing about $2 million with $500,000 in donations) while about 50 trees were removed to create a stormwater area (these trees will be replaced with young saplings) as the project advances toward a May reopening after a March community build phase.

The third annual Westside Stride Block Party will continue today despite light rain—organizers confirmed the event is set to feature neighborhood activities and family fun.

Nakato Japanese Restaurant will reopen on Oct.

15 after closing for three months of major renovations—staff said the update keeps the familiar menu while modernizing the space.

Nakato Japanese Restaurant reopened on October 6th after three months of extensive renovations—Paul Milliken visited to review the changes.

The restaurant is now open and operating following the improvements.

Rev. Raphael Grant said that the congregation remains optimistic as they work to rebuild their house of worship that was destroyed by an arsonist on October 6.

A Georgia Lottery player won $1 million after purchasing a ticket at the Alpharetta Publix on Oct.

1—matching all five white-ball numbers with odds of 1 in 292.2 million at the 270 Rucker Road location. This win highlights the rare chance of landing such a jackpot.

At its October 6th meeting, the Alpharetta City Council considered expanding the True North 400 tax district to add 29 parcels spanning Alpharetta, Milton and Roswell—valued at about $26.3 million.

The district has funded projects like the Davis Drive extension and upgraded bus shelters—efforts that have spurred further local improvements.

The Georgia High School Association approved a major change to its playoff seeding process for high school football—this overhaul marks the first major update in decades and aims to boost competition in postseason play.

Quilt Exhibit Reception

5-7 p.m. — Alpharetta Arts Center — Free entry — Explore the creative uses of quilts in art, decor, and fashion with live music and refreshments.

Vibe Fest 2025 featuring Justin Borgman

7-10 p.m. — Union Hill Park — Children 15 and under free — Enjoy a Halloween-themed concert with local bands and family-friendly festivities.

Festivals of Speed

11 AM – 3 PM — Avalon — Free entry — Experience a stunning display of exotic cars, motorcycles, and luxury brands in a vibrant atmosphere.

B-52s and DEVO Concert

7-11:30 p.m. — Ameris Bank Amphitheatre — Check venue for ticket prices — Experience an energetic night filled with iconic hits and quirky flair from two legendary acts.

The Decades Band

8-11:30 p.m. — 35 Milton Avenue — Tickets available — Experience a high-energy performance of classic rock hits spanning the decades.

Paul McCartney: Got Back Tour 2025

6-9:30 p.m. — State Farm Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary Paul McCartney live in concert featuring classics and hits from his iconic career.