Photo: The Walk Productions

Amal is a 12-foot tall puppet that portrays the character of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee child. She’s been through dozens of countries on her trek across the world — and now she’s coming to Atlanta.

This is an ambitious project, having an oversized puppet travel the globe.

Amal’s trek first began in 2021.
The artistic endeavor was designed to highlight the plight of Syrians who fled their country’s civil war, spreading out over large distances in Europe. Then, the project organizers realized that Amal could also bring her message to the U.S., where migrant children often face many perils.

Amal arrived in America this past September, setting out on a 6,000 mile tour that will cover 37 cities. She will be in Atlanta from October 8th through 10th.

Amal’s name means “hope” in Arabic. 
The puppet is operated by three handlers, including a person on stilts, and Amal creates quite a sight as she moves through cities and towns!

Want to walk with Amal in Atlanta?
All events are FREE and open to the public.
Details are below!

Check out our Complete Guide to Atlanta Fall Festivals & Fairs -- which covers the entire metro area and includes all the fairs and festivals from September thru November.

Amal Walks Across America: Atlanta Events

You’re invited to walk with Amal in the public events below.
Be sure to scroll down for photos of Amal’s visit to London!
You can also see a complete list of Amal’s events in other cities on the Walk With Amal website.

Seven Lanes

Sunday, October 8, 2023
Start time 10 a.m.
3268 Buford Hwy
Brookhaven, GA 30329

Little Amal is terrified of Buford Highway and its seven lanes of traffic! But with help from people of many cultures, she gains the confidence to cross.
This event is held in partnership with We Love Buford Highway, Atlanta Chinese Dance Company, City of Brookhaven, and CARE.
More info

We Have a Dream

Sunday, October 8, 2023
Start time 3 p.m.
Piazza at the Woodruff Arts Center
1280 Peachtree Street
Atlanta, GA 30309

Amal takes a school field trip to the Woodruff Arts Center and experiences a practice alarm drill — which is terrifying and confusing for her.  Yolanda Renee King, granddaughter of Martin Luther King Jr, is on hand to share a message of hope, and to encourage Amal to imagine a different world.
More info and a complete list of special guests

Chasing Butterflies

Sunday, October 8, 2023
Start time 6:30 p.m.
Atlanta BeltLine, Eastside Trail

Amal strolls along the Atlanta BeltLine, fascinated by a dramatic swirl of monarch butterflies on their own trek — their fall migration to Mexico. You’re invited to walk with Amal as she chases butterflies on our famed BeltLine.

The walk starts on the BeltLine at Ponce City Market, 675 Ponce de Leon Avenue.
It ends at Historic 4th Ward Skatepark, 830 Willoughby Way.
More info

A Clay Vessel

Tuesday, October 10, 2023
Start time 2 p.m.
Center for Civil & Human Rights
100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd
Atlanta, GA 30313

Amal explores the idea of shaping a new world at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, along with local elementary school children.
More info

One Thing to Take

Tuesday, October 10, 2023
Start time 5 p.m.
Downtown Decatur

What if you lost the most precious thing you brought with you when you were forced to leave home? Amal learns how communities can come together to help.

You’re invited to walk with Amal through downtown Decatur.
The walk starts at the Decatur MARTA Station, 400 Church Street.
It ends at the Courthouse Square, 509 N. McDonough Street.
More info

This Ancient Land

Tuesday, October 10, 2023
Start time 6 p.m.
Brownwood Park Pavilion
602 Brownwood Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30319

Amal heads to southeast Atlanta, to attend a special peace ceremony with the Mvskoke Nation.
You’re invited to a potluck dinner! Just bring your own picnic dinner and a blanket or chair. Amal arrives at the pavilion at 6:30 p.m.
More info

Photo Gallery: Amal’s Visit to London

These photos give you an idea of what to expect, when Amal arrives in Atlanta!

Amal is greeted by clergy at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. Deposit Photos.

Amal and her handlers at the Globe Theatre, London. Deposit Photos

Amal and Alice meet in Oxford, UK, and walk through the city, greeted by the crowds. Deposit Photos

Amal arrives at St Paul’s Cathedral in London. Deposit Photos.

Amal at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. Deposit Photos

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