Pop Smart - See & Do: Visual art: Millennium Gate

Depending on whom you ask, the new MILLENNIUM GATE in Atlantic Station is either a refreshing neoclassical monument that at last puts Atlanta in the same rarified architectural air as New York, Paris and Rome, or it’s a fatuous bit of retrograde schlock that even Las Vegans would consider too tacky to build. Decide for yourself at the grand opening of the monument Fri., JULY 4. All the components of a traditional Fourth celebration will be in evidence: bands, a parade, fireworks, champagne and refreshments provided by Atlantic Grill. And what would Independence Day be without Mr. Stars and Stripes Forever, John Philip Sousa? Check. Orchestra Atlanta gets the bombast started at 11 a.m. with Sousa’s world-famous music. Free. Atlantic Station, 371 17th St. 404-733-1221. www.atlanticstation.com.

(Photo courtesy Collins Cooper Carusi Architects Inc.)