It started in 1936 as an event to put Atlanta on the map. Now it’s the oldest outdoor festival in Atlanta and a classic opening to spring. 

The Atlanta Dogwood Festival returns to the city for the 81st time this weekend. The three day event will include an extensive artist market, live music on two stages and food from a variety of vendors. 

Brian Hill speaks with GPB host Leah Fleming

The festivities kick off at noon on Friday at Piedmont Park and will run all the way until Sunday.

We sit down with executive director Brian Hill to talk about the history of the festival, from the 1930s all the way to 2017. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlsQ5pDgf18