Discovery Series Ornament – Atlanta
Discovery Series Ornament Atlanta is a mini mug from Georgia. Starbucks released it for both the Been There and You Are Here collections, so I was pretty confident that the Discovery Series would get one too.
Starbucks placed these five things associated with Atlanta in the design of the ornament:
– Nestled in the heart of Midtown, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a lush oasis spanning 30 acres of breathtaking natural beauty. Since its establishment in 1976, it has become a premier destination for plant lovers and casual visitors alike, featuring stunning displays of both native and exotic flora. The garden’s iconic Canopy Walk, vibrant seasonal exhibitions, and commitment to conservation make it a living museum that captures the essence of Atlanta’s green spirit.
– Atlanta’s nickname “Dogwood City” pays homage to the stunning display of dogwood trees that blanket the city in delicate white and pink blossoms each spring. This natural spectacle transforms Atlanta’s neighborhoods, parks, and streets into a picturesque wonderland, drawing visitors from far and wide to witness the fleeting beauty.
– Located just south of Atlanta in Hampton, the Atlanta Motor Speedway is a thundering temple of speed that has thrilled racing enthusiasts since 1960. This 1.54-mile quad-oval track hosts some of NASCAR’s most exciting events, including the Quaker State 400 and the Ambetter Health 400. Beyond its racing pedigree, the speedway has become a versatile venue for concerts, festivals, and community events, cementing its place as a cultural landmark in the Southeast.
– The cassette player on the back of the ornament probably symbolizes Atlanta’s moniker as the “Hip-Hop Capital of the South,” which is a testament to its profound influence on the genre since the 1980s. The city has been a crucible for groundbreaking artists, innovative sounds, and cultural movements that have shaped the global hip-hop landscape. From OutKast and T.I. to more recent stars like Migos and Lil Baby, Atlanta’s musical legacy continues to evolve, fostering a creative ecosystem that nurtures new talent and pushes the boundaries of hip-hop culture.
– You might correct me in the comments, but the bird on the back of the mug is probably a reference to a phoenix that is incorporated into Atlanta’s flag and the seal. The phrase “Atlanta from the Ashes” encapsulates the city’s remarkable history of rebirth and resilience. This powerful image refers to Atlanta’s literal and metaphorical rise after being burned to the ground during the Civil War in 1864, only to emerge stronger and more determined.
