The City of Kennesaw has achieved many noteworthy recognitions.
1. Kennesaw was selected as one of the "Top 25 Cities and Towns with the Best American Values" in the May 2009 edition of Newsmax Magazine. In choosing Kannesaw, the editors cited the city's excellent school systems, low crime rate, air quality, green spaces and easily accessible family-friendly activities.
2. The annual Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival was named one of the Top 25 BBQ Events/Festivals in the US by the Kansas City Barbecue Society. Pigs & Peaches is the KCBS-sanctioned championship for the state of Georgia.
3. The City was recognized in 2009 as a Platinum-Level Start! Fit-Friendly Employer by the American Heart Association's Start! movement for helping employees eat better and move more. A voluntary comprehensive wellness program offered to the city staff encourages and rewards a healthy lifestyle.
4. In 2008, the City was designated a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation. This designation recognizes citiea and towns that plant and care for the community forest. It is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
5. Kennesaw was selected by Family Circle Magazine as one of the nation's "10 Best Towns for Families." The article appeared in the magazine's August 2007 edition. The publication announced the results of its search to identify the best communities across the country that combine big-city opportunities with suburban charm, a blend of affordable housing, good jobs, top-rated schools, wide-open spaces and a lot less stress. Family Circle is a monthly magazine with a circulation of 3.9 million and has approximately 20 million readers.
6. In 2004, Kennesaw was designated a Preserve America Community by First Lady Laura Bush. The Preserve America program is a White House effort to encourage and support community efforts for the preservation and enjoyment of America’s priceless cultural and natural heritage. This program recognizes and designates communities that protect and celebrate their heritage, use their historic assets for economic development and community revitalization, and encourage people to experience and appreciate local historic resources through education and heritage tourism programs.
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Classes at Smith-Gilbert Gardens offer gardening pointers to adults & kids.
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Kennesaws proud heritage is honored and remembered on the grounds of the City Cemetery.
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Kennesaw Parks & Recreation will get you moving toward improved fitness and health.
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Morning dog walking is invigorating and enjoyable at Swift-Cantrell Park.
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City officials and business owners cut the ribbon to showcase a new opening.
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Police officers start the recruiting process early.
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Shop at our Farmers Market for fresh produce, baked goods & other items from May-October.
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Mayor Mathews invites future community leaders to participate in City Council meetings.
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The Police Honor Guard is specially trained to represent the department at formal functions.
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The Civil War era comes to life at the Southern Museum and in annual battle re-enactments.
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The annual Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival features a Kansas City BBQ Society sanctioned contest.
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Gather your paints brushes or camera and get inspired at Smith-Gilbert Gardens.
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Enthusiastic and dedicated staff provide first-rate support of the citys trails, parks and facilities.
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Hundreds of volunteers maintain the beautiful flora at the 16 acre Smith-Gilbert Gardens.
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The Citys two community parks offer families hours of recreation and relaxation.
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Children celebrate Arbor Day by planting a tree in the Garden at Swift-Cantrell Park.
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Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield Park offers a bird-eye view of the city and surrounding area.
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A new pedestrian underpass provides safe passage between Main St. and the Depot.
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The City offers free wireless internet in parks & city facilities.
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The Annual Big Shanty Festival features crafts, food, & shows attracting over 50,000 visitors.