GGEORGIA uide To
Events Attractions Fairs & Festivals
November/ December 2013
Enchanted Garden Of Lights At Rock City
CELEBRATE
THE HISTORY AND THE HERITAGE JANUARY 29 - FEBRUARY 20
Enjoy Metro Atlanta’s largest film festival in Sandy Springs. Celebrating Jewish heritage and culture, the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival features an international collection of over 70 films. Screenings are supplemented by guest speakers and appearances by filmmakers, actors, authors and other expert speakers. Go to www.ajff.org for a full schedule of events and screenings.
Don’t miss a frame! Stay in Sandy Springs while enjoying the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. Go to www.VisitSandySprings.org or call Toll-Free 866-511-7742. @Sandy Springs_HT
Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism - CVB and Welcome Center
GGEORGIA uide
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Volume 53 Number 4 Holiday Issue November/December 2013
CONTENTS Metro Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7 Atlanta Attractions . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9 Theatre Directory . . . . . . . . . .10-12 Entertainment Venues . . . . . .13-15 The Nutcracker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Holiday Events in Georgia . . . .16-28 Christmas Parades . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Holiday Tours of Homes . . . . . . . .22 Tree Lighting Ceremonies . . . . . . .24 Garden & Nature Events . . . . . . .29 Long Running Holiday Events . . .30
ON THE COVER ock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights, which features more than 30 holiday scenes, illuminated rock formations, and close to a million LED lights, will become a nocturnal fairyland November 22 through January 4. This Holiday Issue also includes an article on Ruby Red Christmas which is held at Ruby Falls on Fridays and Saturdays during December, as well as information on an array of other holiday events throughout Georgia.
3,500 B Booths ooths Atlanta Expo Centers Atlanta Centers - Atlant A Atlanta, tlanta, GA UPCOMING SHO SHOWS: WS: NOV 7, 8, 9 & 1 NOV 10 0 DEC 12, 13, 14 DE C 1 2, 1 3, 1 4 & 15
JAN 9, 10, JAN 10, 11 & 1 12 2 FEB 6, 7, 8 & 9
tS Show how Hours: Hours: Thurs. Thurs. 12:45-6, FFri. ri. & Sat. Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-4 t Directions: Directions: 3 miles East of A Atlanta tlanta A Airport, irport, I-285 aatt Exit 55 (3650 & 3850 Jonesbor Jonesboro o Rd.) Rd.)
Every Ever Ev eryy second weekend er weekend o off the month!
For more For more information, information, visit us at: at: www.scottantiquemarkets.com w ww.scottantiquemark .scottantiquemarkets ets.com SScott cott Antique Antique Markets Markets P.O. P.O. Box P.O Box 60, Bremen, Br emen, OH 43107 ~ FFax: ax: 740.569.7595
R
GUIDE
TO
Take the Road Less Traveled!
Georgia’s Peach Blossom Trail
GEORGIA
801 Nebula Rd., Manchester, GA 31816 Phone 706-846-2620 E-mail guidetogeorgia@windstream.net Patty Proctor . . . . . . . . .Publisher/Editor Hayley Yawn . . . . . .Publisher’s Assistant Debi Richardson . . . . . . .Graphics Editor 803-259-1990, debi@guidetogeorgia.com The GUIDE TO GEORGIA, founded in 1960, is the premiere publication for information on activities and entertainment in Georgia. Four issues are published each year, and the magazines are distributed in all 11 Georgia Welcome Centers, in local visitor bureaus, in hotels, and numerous other outlets as well as to subscribers. Subscription is $10 per year. Contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without permission.
Venture Off the Interstate and Enjoy the Holidays in Georgia! 888-288-9742
www.peachblossomtrail.com
November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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METRO ATLANTA Homer for the Holidays Join Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism as they celebrate the holidays at their Welcome Center on December 6, 2013 from 10:00am through 2:00pm. The resident Town Turtle, Homer, will be dressed up in the holiday spirit, and children are invited to have their pictures made with this lovable character. There will be a Facebook photo contest, games, prizes, seasonal treats and surprises! Be sure to stop by and celebrate the Holiday Season with them. The Sandy Springs Welcome Center is located in the Parkside Shopping Center at 5920 Roswell Road, Street Level-Suite A-118, Sandy Springs, GA 30328. For more information, visit www.VisitSandySprings.org or call 770-206-1447.
Ring in the New Year in Sandy Springs! As 2013 comes to a close, Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism wants to ensure that you send it off in style! Select Sandy Springs hotels are offering special rates for New Year’s Eve. In addition to a comfortable night in an upscale hotel, Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism will provide you with a New Year’s Eve Celebration Kit. This special gift will include hats, noisemakers and party favors for two, along with helpful supplies to aid with your New Year’s Day recovery. Be sure to submit your name, confirmation number and check-in date at www.VisitSandy Springs.org / NYE by December 22, 2013 to reserve your New Year’s Eve Celebration Kit. Hotel reservation must be made for December 30 or December 31 to qualify.
Heritage Winter Classics Series at Heritage Sandy Springs The Heritage Winter Classic Concerts will be held at Heritage Sandy Springs, located at 6110 Bluestone Road in Sandy Springs. Gates will open at 4pm, and the concerts will be held from 4:30-6:30pm. Admission will be $5. Shaken Not Stirred: The Music of James Bond with Ted Howe & Co. is scheduled for Nov. 17. Reinventing the beloved music from the James Bond legacy, Howe’s arrangements and vocalists will skyrocket you through decades of classics. Begin your holidays on Dec. 15 with seasonal tunes from Atlanta’s favorite a capella group, the Atlanta Vocal Project, a barbershop style vocal group. For more information, visit www.heritagesandysprings.org or phone 404-851-9111.
Events Throughout November & December Nov. 1, Dec. 6 – First Friday Gallery Walks, Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013. Roswell. 770-594-9511. Dec. 3, 10, 12, 17 – Holiday High Teas, Nov. 7, Dec. 5 – First Thursday Art Walk, Bulloch Hall, Roswell, 4pm. 770-992-1731. Downtown Atlanta, 5-8pm. 404-658-1877. Thru Feb. 2014 – Moses Young Robinson Nov. 1-29 – Martinis & IMAX, Fernbank, Collection, Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Fridays 6:30-11pm. 404-929-6300. 404-851-9111. Nov. 7, 14, 21, Dec. 5, 12, 19 – Terrific Ongoing – Anne Frank in the World Thursdays, Downtown Decatur. 404-370-4100. Exhibit, Parkside Shopping Center, Sandy Springs. Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21 – Breakfast or 770-206-1558. Lunch with Santa, Southeastern Railway (Calendar continues on the next page) 4 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
METRO ATLANTA Scott Antique Market in Atlanta The Scott Antique Market at the Atlanta Expo Centers, the world’s largest monthly indoor antique show, features two buildings stocked full of pretty much every antique imaginable. With 366,000 square feet to explore, and over 3,500 booths, plus outdoor shopping and even a courtyard of merchandise, it’s almost impossible to leave without finding exactly what you’re looking for, according to the show’s organizers. All things antique wind up at the Scott Antique Market-antique furniture, vintage hardware, rare art, stunning glassware, heirloom silver, incredible jewelry, and so much more. The Scott Antique Market, described as “America’s favorite treasure hunt,” always takes place the second weekend of every month at the Atlanta Expo Centers which straddle I-285 at Exit 55. Parking is free; admission is only $5; and a complimentary shuttle goes between both buildings. Show hours are Thurs. 12:45-6pm, Fri. & Sat. 9am-6pm, and Sun. 10am-4pm. Upcoming shows will be Nov. 7-10, Dec. 12-15, Jan. 9-12, and Feb. 6-9. For a complete list of show dates and more information on Scott Antique Markets, call 740-569-2800 or visit www.scottantiquemarket.com.
November 1- 2 – Netherworld Haunted House. 404608-2484. 1-3 – Georgia State Fair, Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton 770-946-4211. 1-3 – Indian Festival & Pow Wow, Stone Mountain Park. 770-498-5690. 2 – Sienafest Craft Fair, 1618 Ben King Road, Kennesaw. 800-451-3480. 2 – Alpharetta Chili Cook-Off, Downtown, 2:30pm. 678-297-6000. 2 – Cabbagetown Chomp & Stomp. 2-3 – Chastain Park Arts Festival. 404-2372177. 3 – Atlanta Day of the Dead, Atlantic Station. 404-733-1221. 3 – Fiesta de la Familia, Zoo Atlanta. 404624-9453. 6, 7, 10 – Fall Bargainata Benefit Sale, Hilderbrand Court Shopping Center, Sandy Springs. 404-843-9600. 7 – Alpharetta’s Table Decorations for the Holidays, Welcome Ctr., 6-8pm. 678-297-0102. 7 – A Laurence Rosenthal Project at Steve’s Live Music, Sandy Springs, 8pm. 404-418-6777. 7-10 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000.
8 – Mt. Zion Craft Show, Mt. Zion Methodist Church, Marietta. 770-971-1565. 9 – Wire & Wood Songwriter Festival, Downtown Alpharetta. 678-655-0040. 9 – S’mores 4 All, Oakhurst Garden, Decatur, 6pm. 404-371-1920. 9 – Turtle Tour (ages 2-5), Heritage Sandy Springs Museum, 11am. 404-851-9111. 9 – Three Concerts featuring Atlanta Opera, Breman Jewish Museum. 678-222-3700. 9 – Veterans Day Parade, Downtown Atlanta, 11:11am. 770-528-2611. 9 – Wine Tasting Festival, Decatur Square, 1-4pm. 404-370-4100. 9 – Cherokee Heights Arts Festival, Marietta. 770-218-3836. 9 – S. E. Indians Heritage Program, Atlanta History Center. 404-814-4000. 9-10 – Civil War Living History Fall Encampment, Barrington Hall, Roswell. 770-640-3855. 9-10 – Model Railroad Days, Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013. 11 – City of Sandy Springs Veterans Day Celebration, Morgan Falls Overlook Park, 11am. 770-730-5600. 14 – Gateway International Food & Music Festival, Webb Park, Norcross. 770-449-6515.
November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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METRO ATLANTA Visits from Santa to S.E. Railway Museum in Duluth Santa will arrive at the Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth on Saturday, November 16, at 1pm. There will be refreshments and photos with Santa. Enjoy breakfast or lunch with Santa on Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, and 21. Breakfast will start at 8:30am, and lunch will begin at noon. Both will include a mean, craft time, a hayride to the train platform with Santa, and a train ride with Santa. Watch a unique showing of The Polar Express in an authentic railroad car on Nov. 30 at 3:30pm and on Dec. 7, 14, and 21 at 3:30pm and 6pm. There will be cookies and hot chocolate and a special gift. Each of these holiday events will be individually ticketed. Check website for details. Model Railroad Days on Nov. 9-10 will feature various gauges of model railroads including Norfolk Southern’s upgraded exhibit car and the Vines Garden Railway ‘G’ scale exhibit. There will also be hands-on activities, a craft table, and refreshments; Spiced Right BBQ will also be available. Located at 3595 Buford Hwy. in Duluth, the Museum follows a seasonal schedule; days and hours of operation are available on the website. With ad on page 5 one free train ride with each paid admission. For information, visit www.SoutheasternRailwayMuseum.org or phone 770-476-2013.
November
December
3 – Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism Holiday Welcome Center Open House, 5920 Roswell Road. 770-206-1447. 3 – Coming Home for the Holidays Celebration, Smyrna Community Center, 5-9pm. 770-434-6600. 4 – Holiday Roswell Concert, City Hall, 5:30pm. 770-640-3253. 6-7 – Apple Annie Arts/Crafts Show, Catholic Church of St. Ann, Marietta. 770-552-6400. 6-8 – Heirloom Holidays Living History Weekend, Roswell. 770-640-3253. 7 – 1850’s Heirloom Holidays Tour of Homes. 770-992-1665. 7 – Day with Santa, Downtown Kennesaw, 12-6pm. 770-422-9714. 7 – Evening in Bethlehem, Roswell Events sometimes change, so phone for Methodist Church, 5, 6, 8pm. 770-993-6218. information before driving long distances. 7,14 – Snow on the Square, Downtown Alpharetta, 1pm. 678-297-2811. 7-23 – A Christmas Carol by Kudzu Players, Bulloch Hall, Roswell. 770-992-1731. 975 West Peachtree Street at 10th Street 8 – Michael O’Neal Singers/Classy Brassy ATLANTA, GEORGIA Christmas, Roswell UMC, 3pm. 770-594-7974. All-suite hotel; 8 – Atlanta Comic Convention, Marriott Elegant kitchenettes; Century Center. 706-837-4976. Luxurious continental 8 – Atlanta Wedding Soiree, Hyatt Regency, breakfast; Marietta. 678-209-5479. complimentary 8 – Alpharetta City Band Holiday Concert, dinner 13450 Cogburn Road. 678-297-6140. (Mon.-Thurs.) 9-20 – Governor’s Mansion Tours, 391 Paces Ferry Rd. 404-261-1776. Located two blocks from I-75/85, 12 – Decatur Bonfire & Marshmallow next to Midtown MARTA station. Roast, Downtown, 7-8pm. 404-370-4100. 404-876-5003 / 800-642-3629 12-15 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta www.regencysuites.com Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. 6 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
15 – Friday Jazz, High Museum of Art, 5-10pm. 404-733-4437. 16 – Santa arrives at Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth, 1pm. 770-476-2013. 16 – Holiday Craft Market, Pinckneyville Park, Norcross. 770-417-2200. 16-17 – Elegant Elf Marketplace, Sandy Springs Methodist Church. 866-511-7742. 17 – Holiday Bazaar, Davis Academy, 10am2:30pm. 770-671-0085. 17 – The Music of James Bond with Ted Howe & Company, Heritage Sandy Springs, 4pm. 404-851-9111. 21 – Lunchtime. Several Dancers Core Studio, Decatur. Free lunch for first 40. 404-373-4154.
REGENCY SUITES HOTEL
METRO ATLANTA ATLANTA ATTRACTIONS Atlanta Cyclorama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-658-7625 Atlanta History Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-814-4000 Atlanta Preservation Walking Tours . . . . . . . . 404-688-3353 Bulloch Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-992-1731 Callanwolde Fine Arts Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-872-5338 Carter Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-865-7100 Centennial Olympic Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-222-PARK Chattahoochee River Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-641-3705 CNN Studio Tour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-827-2300 Fernbank Museum of Natural History . . . . . . . 404-929-6300 Fox Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-881-2100 Georgia Aquarium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-581-4000 Georgia Department of Archives. . . . . . . . . . . 678-364-3700 Georgia Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-223-4636 Georgia State Capitol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-656-2844 Georgia World Congress Center . . . . . . . . . . . 404-223-4000 Gone With The Wind Museum, Marietta . . . . . 770-794-5576 Governor’s Mansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-261-1776 Heritage Green Sandy Springs. . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-851-9111 High Museum of Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-733-4400 Imagine It! Children’s Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-659-kids Kennesaw Mtn. Nat’l Battlefield . . . . . . . . . . . 770-427-4686 Margaret Mitchell House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-249-7015 Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-528-1444 Marietta Museum of History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-794-5710 Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic Site . . . . . . . . 404-331-5190 Medieval Times. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-935-6878 Michael Carlos Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-727-4282 Museum of Civil War/Locomotive History . . . . 770-427-2117 Oakland Cemetery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-688-2107 Piedmont Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-875-7275 Road to Tara Museum, Jonesboro. . . . . . . . . . . 770-478-4800 Scott Antique Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 740-569-2800 Six Flags Over Georgia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-948-9290 Smith Plantation, Roswell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-641-3978 Southeastern Railway Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-476-2013 Stone Mountain Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-498-5690 Underground Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-523-2311 Woodruff Arts Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-733-4750 World of Coca Cola. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-676-5151 Wren’s Nest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-753-7735 Yellow River Game Ranch, Lilburn . . . . . . . . . . 770-972-6643 Zoo Atlanta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-624-9453
December 13 – Santa Night Benefit/Singing Santas, 5 Seasons Brewing at Prado, Sandy Springs. 866511-7742. 14 – Turtle Tour (ages 2-5), Heritage Sandy Springs Museum, 11am. 404-851-9111. 14 – Gingerbread Christmas at Smith Plantation House, Roswell. 770-641-3978. 14 – Christmas for Kids, Bulloch Hall, Roswell. 770-992-1731. 14-15 – All Star Challenge, Georgia Int’l. Convention Center, College Park. 678-244-9800. 15 – Atlanta Vocal Project (barbershop style a capella group), Heritage Sandy Springs, 4pm. 404-851-9111. 19 – Reenactment of 1853 Mittie Bulloch & Thee Roosevelt Wedding, Bulloch Hall, Roswell. 770-992-1731. 20 – Salsa Dance Night, Fernbank Museum, 5-10pm. 404-929-6400. 22 – Michael O’Neal Singers/Messiah Sing Along, Roswell UMC, 3pm. 770-594-7974. 31 – Radio Disney Noon Year’s Eve, Smyrna Com. Center, 10:30am-12:30pm. 770-434-6600. 31 – Chick-fil-A Bowl Parade. 404-223-9200. 31 – Peach Drop, Underground Atlanta. 404523-2311.
January 9-12 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. 29-Feb. 20 – Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Sandy Springs. 866-511-7742.
February 6-9 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000.
Conyers
Ice Skating at the Pavilion
Olde Town Christmas Party December 6
(open Nov. 15 thru Jan. 5, 2014)
Hometown Holiday Parade December 7
30 Minutes East of Atlanta
1-800-CONYERS
visitconyersga.com
November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Sporting Events Bikes, Blues, and BBQ Festival Coming to Douglas The Bikes, Blues, and BBQ Festival will be held in Douglas on Friday, March 28, from 1-11pm and on Saturday, March 29, from 9am-5pm. Sure to become one of the largest Festivals in South Georgia, this outdoor event will feature all types of vendors including arts & crafts, food, motorcycles, BBQ, and more. Activities will include a BBQ Competition, Tyte Whip Car Show, Motorcycle Show, Poker Run, Show Plane Exhibit, and Live Blues Bands under the sun and stars. Festivities will begin Friday at 1pm at the Douglas Municipal Gene Chambers Airport on 441 South. On Saturday, the Festival will be open to the public from 9am-5pm. Gate fees will be $5 per car or $2 per motorcycle. Vendors, Cook Teams, and Blues Bands are now being accepted for this event. For information, call 912-383-0277 or visit www.CityofDouglas.com.
FOOTBALL
BASKETBALL
HOCKEY
Home Schedules ATLANTA FALCONS
Home Schedule ATLANTA HAWKS
Nov. 10 . . . . . . . . . . .SEATTLE Nov. 21 . . . . .NEW ORLEANS Dec. 15 . . . . . .WASHINGTON Dec. 29 . . . . . . . . .CAROLINA 404-223-8444 www.atlantafalcons.com
Nov. 1 . . . . . . . . . .TORONTO Nov. 9 . . . . . . . . . .ORLANDO Nov. 13 . . . . . . . . .NEW YORK Nov. 15 . . . . . .PHILADELPHIA Nov. 20 . . . . . . . . . . .DETROIT Nov. 23 . . . . . . . . . . .BOSTON Nov. 26 . . . . . . . . .ORLANDO Nov. 29 . . . . . . . . . . .DALLAS Dec. 4 . . . . . . . . .LA CLIPPERS Dec. 6 . . . . . . . . .CLEVELAND Dec. 10 . . . .OKLAHOMA CITY Dec. 13 . . . . . .WASHINGTON Dec. 16 . . . . . . . . .LA LAKERS Dec. 18 . . . . . .SACRAMENTO Dec. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . .UTAH Dec. 28 . . . . . . . .CHARLOTTE 404-249-6400 www.nba.com/hawks
Home Schedules COLUMBUS COTTONMOUTHS
GEORGIA BULLDOGS Nov. 2 . . . . . . . . . . . .FLORIDA Nov. 9 . . . .APPALACHIAN ST. Nov. 23 . . . . . . . . .KENTUCKY 877-542-1231 www.georgiadogs.com
GA TECH YELLOWJACKETS Nov. 2 . . . . . . . .PITTSBURGH Nov. 23 . . . .ALABAMA A&M Nov. 30 . . . . . . . . . .GEORGIA 888-TECH-TIX, 404-894-5447
ramblinwreck.cstv.com
RACING ROAD ATLANTA Braselton, 800-849-race, www.roadatlanta.com Nov. 1-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SCCA American Road Race of Champions Dec. 6-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .NASA Atlanta Motor Speedway . . . . . . . . . . .Hampton, 770-946-4211 atlantamotorspeedway.com Atlanta Dragway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Commerce, 770-682-3782 www.atlantadragway.com Oglethorpe Speedway Park . . . . . . . . . . . .Pooler, 912-964-8200 www.ospracing.net
Nov. 1 . . . . . . . . .HUNTSVILLE Nov. 2 . . . . . . . . . .KNOXVILLE Nov. 17 . . . . . . . .HUNTSVILLE Nov. 22 . . . . . . .FAYETTEVILLE Nov. 29 . . .MISS. RIVERKINGS Dec. 13 . . . . . . . . .KNOXVILLE Dec. 21 . . . . . . . .MISS. SURGE Dec. 22 . . . . . . . . .LOUISIANA Dec. 26 . . . . . . . . . . . .PEORIA Dec. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . .PEORIA 706-571-0086 http://cottonmouths. pointstreaksites.com
GWINNETT GLADIATORS Nov. 3 . . .SOUTH CAROLINA Nov. 9 . . . . . . . . .GREENVILLE Nov. 14 . . . . . . . . . . .FLORIDA Nov. 15 . . . . . . . . . . .FLORIDA Nov. 23 . . . . . . . .GREENVILLE Nov. 28 . . . . . . . .EVANSVILLE Nov. 29 . . . . . . . .EVANSVILLE Dec. 1 . . . . . . . . .EVANSVILLE Dec. 6 . . . . . . . .KALAMAZOO Dec. 13 . .SOUTH CAROLINA Dec. 15 . . . . . . . . .ORLANDO Dec. 20 . .SOUTH CAROLINA Dec. 26 . .SOUTH CAROLINA Dec. 27 . . . . . . . . .WHEELING 770-497-5100 www.gwinnettgladiators.com
that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his Knowpeople, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. – Psalm 100-3-4 NIV –
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GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
Sporting Events FOOTBALL
MISCELLANEOUS
Georgia Dome, 404-223-9200 Nov. 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SEC Championship Dec. 13-14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GHSA Finals Dec. 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HBCU Bowl Game
GEORGIA INT’L HORSE PARK
EQUESTRIAN SHOWS Nov. 2 . . . . . . .Callaway Gardens Steeplechase Pine Mountain, 800-callaway Nov. 2 . . . . . .Belle Meade Hunt Opening Meet Thomson, 706-597-1000 Nov. 24-25 . . . . . . . .Thanksgiving Horse Trials Pine Top Farm, 706-449-2029
Conyers, 888-860-4224, www.conyersga.com Nov. 2 . . . . .N. Ga. Live Steamers Grand Opening & Golden Spike Ceremony Nov. 2-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Royal Alpaca Challenge Nov. 7-10 . . . . . . . . . . .Great American RV Show
HIKES & RUNS (For more races, visit www.atlantatrackclub.org or www.runningintheusa.com.) Schedules sometimes change, so call to confirm events.
GEORGIA INT’L HORSE PARK Conyers, 888-860-4224, www.conyersga.com Nov. 6-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Atlanta Fall Classic I Nov. 13-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Atlanta Fall Classic II
WILLS PARK EQUESTRIAN CENTER Alpharetta, 404-518-9198, www.alpharetta.ga.us Nov. 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IEA Horseshow Nov. 14-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .GHJA Finals
BIKING Nov. 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . Tour de Tugaloo Bike Ride 8am, Toccoa, 706-886-2132
GOLF Nov. 4-10 . . . . . . . McGladrey Classic PGA Tour Sea Island, 912-634-3266
ICE SKATING Nov. 15-Jan. 5. . . . Olde Town Conyers Pavilion Ice Skating Rink, 800-conyers Nov. 23-Jan. 14 . . . . . Centennial Olympic Park Atlanta, 404-223-4412 Dec. 9-11, 16-18 . . . . . . . . Cornelia Community Park, 800-778-8585
An amazing family adventure on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is only a short drive away. It all starts at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia. The train winds alongside the beautiful Toccoa River on a four hour round trip with a stop in the twin border towns of McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN.
Arrange a trip at brscenic.com or 1-877-413-TRAIN 241 DEPOT STREET • BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513 » 1-877-413-8724 • 1-706-632-8724
BRSCENIC.COM
November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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P Theatre DIRECTORY directory P 14TH STREET PLAYHOUSE Atlanta, 404-733-4738, www.14thstplayhouse.org
Nov. 1-3 Nov. 23 Dec. 7-8
Vivien A Sordid Soiree The Covering: Let’s Get Joyful
AURORA THEATRE Lawrenceville, 678-226-6222, www.auroratheatre.com
Nov. 29-Dec. 22 Aurora’s Christmas Canteen
BACK LOT PLAYERS Forsyth, 478-994-0443, www.thebacklotplayers.org
ACTOR’S EXPRESS
Nov. 15-24
Christmas Belles
Atlanta, 404-607-show, www.actors-express.com
Thru Nov. 24 Dec. 13-22
Pluto Libby’s at the Express
BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER 706,632-9223, www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com
Nov. 29-Dec. 15 A Christmas Story
ACT 3 PRODUCTIONS Sandy Springs, 770-241-1905, www.act3productions.org
Nov. 7-23
Parade
BRUNSWICK ACTORS’ THEATRE 912-262-0628, www.artdowntowngallery209.com
Nov. 16-Dec. 15 The Hallelujah Girls
AGATHA’S Atlanta, 404-584-2211, www.agathas.com
Thru Nov. 6
Somewhere Over the Rainbow Someone Dies Nov. 7-Jan. 8 The Nutcroaker–Murder on Your Toes
CALHOUN LITTLE THEATRE 706-629-2599, www.harrisartscenter.com
Nov. 14-17
Arsenic and Old Lace
CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS ALLIANCE THEATRE Atlanta, 404-733-5000, www.alliancetheatre.org
Thru Nov. 9 Thru Nov. 10 Thru Nov. 17 Nov. 29-Dec. 29
Waiting for Balloon By the Way, Meet Vera Stark Warrior Class A Christmas Carol
Stone Mountain, 770-469-1105, www.artstation.org
706-548-3854, www.townandgownplayers.org
Romeo & Juliet
ATLANTA LYRIC THEATRE Marietta, 404-377-9948, www.atlantalyrictheatre.com
Thru Nov. 10 Dec. 13-22
Guys & Dolls Sanders Family Christmas
ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 404-733-4900, www.atlantasymphony.org
Nov. 7-9 Nov. 10 Nov. 14-16 Nov. 21, 23 Nov. 22 Nov. 29-30 Dec. 5,7 Dec. 8 Dec. 13 Dec. 15 Dec. 19-21 Decd. 27 Dec. 30 Dec. 31
DALTON LITTLE THEATRE Nov. 22-Dec. 1
A Broadway Christmas Carol
ATHENS COMMUNITY THEATER Dec. 6-15
Dragon King Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Autumn Portraits (adult)
706-226-6618, www.daltonlittletheatre.com
ART STATION Dec. 5-22
Atlanta, 404-873-3391, www.puppet.org
Thru Nov. 3 Nov. 7-Dec. 29 Nov. 8-10
Pianist Pascal Roge Stars Shine on Shaw Violinist Gil Shaham Violinist Balba Skride Michael W. Smith Cirque de la Symphonie Handel’s Messiah ASO Gospel Christmas Christmas with the ASO ASO Kids Christmas A Very Merry Holiday Pops Celtic Woman Home for Christmas Widespread Panic ASO New Year’s Eve
The Homecoming– A Christmas Story
ELBERT THEATRE Elberton, 706-283-1049, www.elberttheatre.org
Dec. 6-15
A Christmas Pudding
FORT GORDON DINNER THEATRE 706-793-8552, www.fortgordon.com
Nov. 15-Dec. 7
Miracle on South Division Street
GAINESVILLE THEATRE ALLIANCE 678-717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org
Nov. 12-23
Guys and Dolls
GEM THEATRE Calhoun, 706-625-3132, www.calhoungem.org
Nov. 22 Dec. 13 Dec. 20 Dec. 21
Annie Moses Band Stephen Freeman: Tribute to Elvis Love Actually (movie) The Van Lears benefit concert
GEORGIA ENSEMBLE THEATRE Roswell, 770-641-1260, www.get.org
Nov. 7-24
Deathtrap
GRAND THEATRE Cartersville, 770-386-7343, www.thegrandtheatre.org
AUGUSTA PLAYERS 706-826-4704, www.augustaplayers.org
Dec. 14-15
A Christmas Carol
Nov. 1-2 Nov. 9 Dec. 7
Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, Jr. Comedian Costaki Economopoulos Atlanta Pops Orchestra
Events sometimes change, so phone for information before driving long distances.
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GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
P Theatre DIRECTORY directory P Tales from the Altamaha 2014 Listen… can you hear it? The rustle of the wind in the trees, birds chirping in flight, and the waters of the Altamaha? It’s calling, calling…and once again you will have the opportunity to be transported back to a time when Southern traditions were just being forged. This awardwinning Georgia folk-like play is drawn from the writings of Colonel T. Ross Sharpe, a local attorney born and raised on the Altamaha River, who wrote a series of essays in the local newspaper during the 1950’s and 60’s about the regional settlers of the area around the river. Since 2005, Tales from the Altamaha has entertained audiences from all over the Southeast with a different selection of Colonel Ross’ stories interwoven with bluegrass music performed by the River Rat Review Band. Tales from the Altamaha 2014 takes the stage for its tenth anniversary production in April and May with the “Best of Tales,” a collection of the best scenes from the last nine years. A project of Lyons Better Hometown, Tales from the Altamaha continues to be a cultural celebration steeped in the Southern traditions unique to rural South Georgia. Make plans now to embark on the ride of a lifetime as you experience the lives, loves, losses, scandals, and just plain ol’ gossip that are Tales from the Altamaha. Tickets go on sale in January 2014 and range in price from $10-$20. Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more. Performance dates will be April 25-26, 29, May 1-3. Call 912-526-6445 or go to www.talesfromthealtamaha.com for more information.
HABERSHAM COMMUNITY THEATER Clarkesville, 706-839-1315, www.habershamtheater.org
Dec. 6-15
A Christmas Carol
MAIN STREET PLAYERS Griffin, 770-229-9916, www.mainstreetplayers.org
Dec. 5-15
Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some)
HENRY PLAYERS McDonough, 770-914-1474, www.henryplayers.com
Nov. 21-24
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus
HISTORIC RITZ THEATRE
MARIETTA PLAYERS 678-224-8095, www.mariettaplayers.com
Nov. 6-23 Dec. 4-21
The Back Side of Stone Mountain Christmas Carol
Brunswick, 912-262-6934, www.goldenislesarts.org
Nov. 9 Civil War Cameos Nov. 14 Cinema Gourmet: Sunset Blvd. RITZ RADIO THEATRE: Dec. 13-20 It’s a Wonderful Life Dec. 14-21 A Christmas Carol
MORTON THEATRE Athens, 706-613-3771, www.mortontheatre.com
Nov. 14-17 Dec. 7 Dec. 16
Disney’s Aladdin Jr. Taste of the Holiday Season Twas the Night Before Christmas (musical)
HOLLY THEATER Dahlonega, 706-864-3759, www.hollytheater.com
Thru Nov. 3 Nov. 9 Dec. 6-22
The Mousetrap Holly’s 20th Anniversary Concert Mame
NEW AMERICAN SHAKESPEARE THEATRE TAVERN Atlanta, 404-874-5299, www.shakespearetavern.com
Thru Nov. 3 Nov. 9-Dec. 1
Othello King Lear
ISLAND PLAYERS St. Simons Island, 912-638-0338, theislandplayers.com
Thru Nov. 3 Spamalot
LEGACY THEATRE
NEW DEPOT PLAYERS Conyers, 678-374-3224, www.thenewdepotplayers.com
Dec. 5-15 Dec. 5-23
Christmas Belles A Christmas Carol
Tyrone, 770-306-3343, www.thelegacytheatre.org
Nov. 22-Dec. 15 The Andrews Sisters– A Christmas Swing
MACON LITTLE THEATRE 478-471-play, www.maconlittletheatre.org
Dec. 6-16
Wizard of Oz
NEWNAN THEATER COMPANY 770-683-6282, www.newnantheatre.org
Thru Nov. 3 Mystery of Irma Vep Dec. 5-15 Annie Dec. 16-22 Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)
November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 11
P Theatre DIRECTORY directory P NEXT STAGE THEATRE COMPANY Marietta, 678-744-6398, www.nextstagetheatrecompany.com
SWAMP GRAVY Colquitt, 800-514-3849, www.swampgravy.com
Dec. 5-8
Thru Nov. 3 Plaza Suite Dec. 6-21 The Full Monty
Very Merry May-Haw Christmas
SYNCHRONICITY THEATRE Atlanta, 404-484-8636, www.synchrotheatre.com
PERRY PLAYERS
Dec. 6-29
478-987-5354, www.perryplayers.org
Dec. 6-21
Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)
Peter Pan & Wendy
TALES FROM THE ALTAMAHA
Lyons 912-526-6445, www.talesfromthealtamaha.com
April 25-26, 29, May 1-3
PUMPHOUSE PLAYERS
Cartersville 770-387-2610, www.pumphouseplayers.com
Thru Nov. 2 Bad Seed Dec. 6-14 I’ll Be Home for Christmas
TATER PATCH PRODUCTIONS Jasper, 770-547-1096, www.taterpatchplayers.org
Nov. 22-Dec. 14 Dashing Through the Snow
ROME LITTLE THEATRE
THEATRE ALBANY
706-295-7171, www.romelittletheatre.com
229-439-7193, www.theatrealbany.com
Thru Nov. 3 Frankenstein Dec. 6-15 The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Dec. 5-15
SAVANNAH CHILDREN’S THEATRE
THEATER EMORY
912-238-9015, www.savannahchildrenstheatre.org
Nov. 8-10 Nov. 15-17
Best of Tales
Pirates of Penzance Tiny Thumbelina
Nuncrackers
Atlanta, 404-727-5050, www.theater.emory.edu
Nov. 14-24
Macbeth
THEATRE GUILD VALDOSTA 229-247-8243, www.theatreguildvaldosta.com
SAVANNAH THEATRE
Dec. 5-14
912-233-7764, www.savannahtheatre.com
Thru Nov. 23 Savannah Live Thru Nov. 24 Jukebox Journey Nov. 28-Dec. 26 A Christmas Tradition
To Kill a Mockingbird
THEATRE MACON 478-746-9485, www.theatremacon.com
Dec. 6-15
The Sound of Music
SOUTHSIDE THEATRE GUILD Fairburn, 770-969-0956, www.stgplays.com
Thru Nov. 17
THEATRE ON MAIN
Pinocchio
Acworth, 770-565-3995, www.theatreonmain.org
Dec. 6-21 Joseph & Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
SPRINGER THEATRE
Columbus 706-324-5714, www.springeroperahouse.org
Nov. 14-23 Dec. 5-22 Dec. 12-24
California Dreaming Christmas Carol: The Musical A Tuna Christmas
THEATRICAL OUTFIT Atlanta, 678-528-1500, www.theatricaloutfit.org
Thru Nov. 10 Harabel . . . by Gypsee Yo Nov. 27-Dec. 22 The Gifts of the Magi
STAGE DOOR PLAYERS
Dunwoody, 770-396-1726, www.stagedoorplayers.net
Dec. 5-22
Thru Nov. 3
ST. MARYS LITTLE THEATRE Forever Christmas (musical)
And Then There Were None
WARNER ROBINS LITTLE THEATRE
912-729-1103, www.stmaryslittletheatre.com
Dec. 5-17
THOMASVILLE ON STAGE & COMPANY 229-226-0863, www.tosac.com
The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays
478-929-4579, www.wrlt.org
Nov. 1-16
Baggage (comedy)
Festival of Lights Parade DECEMBER 7 • 6:30PM • DOUGLAS “Celebrating the Golden Years” • One of the largest night-time parades in Southeast Georgia • Featuring over 100 entries • Over 25,000 spectators Additional Events for the Day: • 5K Road Race • Holiday Shopping
912-383-0277 • www.cityofdouglas.com
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GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
Entertainment Venues in Georgia ATLANTA CIVIC CENTER 404-658-7159, www.atlantaciviccenter.com
Nov. 23
Gary Own–Filming Hour Special
AUGUSTA ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX 706-722-3521,www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com
Nov. 14 Nov. 15-17 Nov. 19 Nov. 20 Dec. 14 Dec. 15
Pops at the Bill/ Big Bad Voo Doo Daddy Christmas Made in the South Guitar Pull Joe Bonamassa Gabriel Inglesias Disney Live! 3 Classic Fairy Tales
CALLANWOLDE Atlanta, 404-872-5338, www.callanwolde.org
Dec. 6-17 Dec. 5 Dec. 6 Dec. 7, 14 Dec. 8, 15 Dec. 11 Dec. 13
Christmas at Callanwolde VIP Preview Party Ted Howe Trio & Vocalist Francine Reed Breakfast with Santa Teddy Bear Teas Cocoa & Caroling Trumpeter Joey Sommerville
CENTER FOR PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS
COLUMBUS CIVIC CENTER 706-494-8330, www.columbusciviccenter.org
Dec. 6 Dec. 14
Charlie Wilson Disney Live! 3 Classic Fairy Tales
FERST CENTER FOR THE ARTS Atlanta, 404-894-9600, www.ferstcenter.gatech.edu
Nov. 1 Nov. 3
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Sonic Generator/ L’Orchestre Nat’l. de Lorraine Dec. 14 Peter White/Rick Braun/Mindi Abair
FOX THEATRE Atlanta, 404-881-2100, www.foxtheatre.org
Nov. 1 Nov. 5-10 Nov. 16 Nov. 16 Nov. 20 Nov. 22-23 Nov. 27 Nov. 29 Nov. 29 Dec. 16 Dec. 31
Newnan, 770-254-2787, www.thecenteronline.net
Nov. 3 Nov. 10 Nov. 17 Dec. 1 Dec. 6
Morehouse College Glee Club Mercer Univ. Strings Concert Golden Dragon Acrobats Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells It’s a Wonderful Life
CLASSIC CENTER Athens, 800-918-6393, www.classiccenter.com
Nov. 7 Nov. 10 Nov. 21 Dec. 6 Dec. 14-15 Dec. 14-15
Colin & Brad Athens Symphony Orchestra Hello, Dolly! 50 Shades! The Musical Athens Symphony Orchestra Handmade for the Holidays
John Legend Ghost the Musical Celtic Thunder Bonobo Rick Ross Joe Bonamassa The Yacht Rock Revue Diary of a Diva Live Jaheim Amy Grant, Vince Gill, ASO New Year’s Eve Black Comedy Explosion
GEORGIA NATIONAL FAIRGROUNDS Perry, 478-988-8000, www.perryga.com
Nov. 2-3 Nov. 8-9 Nov. 22-24 Dec. 5
Eastman Gun Show Perry Autofest & Swap Meet Balvaunuca Club Mistletoe Market Taste of Perry
GEORGIA WORLD CONGRESS CENTER Atlanta, 404-223-4000, www.gwcc.com
Nov. 24 Dec. 6-8 Dec. 7 Dec. 8
Dazz with Jazz Christmas in Atlanta Miss Teen Dream USA Pageant Cheersport
COBB CIVIC CENTER Marietta, 770-528-8450, www.prca.cobbcountyga.gov
Nov. 8-9 Nov. 16-17 Nov. 22-24 Dec. 7-8 Dec. 14
Antique Gun & Military Collectibles Show/Sale RK Gun Shows of the South Gem, Mineral, & Jewelry Show Eastman Gun Show Big Chicken Chorus
COBB ENERGY CENTRE Atlanta, 770-916-2800, www.cobbenergycentre.com
Nov. 7-23 Nov. 29 Dec. 2 Dec. 7 Dec. 14-15 Dec. 27-29
Radio City Christmas Spectacular Amos Lee Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour Brian Setzer Orchestra Disney Live! Pirates & Princess Adventure Shen Yun
COBB GALLERIA CENTRE Atlanta, 770-989-5095, www.cobbgalleria.com
Nov. 15
Progressive Int’l. Motorcycle Show November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Entertainment Venues in Georgia GRAND OPERA HOUSE Macon, 478-301-5460, www.thegrandmacon.com
Dec. 2-3 Dec. 20
Memphis John Berry Christmas Concert
GWINNETT CENTER
IMPERIAL THEATRE Augusta, 706-722-8341, www.imperialtheatre.com
Nov. 1 Nov. 15 Nov. 16 Dec. 22
Bilbo & Magic Ring Blue Highway & Sierra Hull Stolen Lives Christmas with John Berry
Duluth, 800-224-6422, www.gwinnettcenter.com
Nov. 3 Nov. 8 Nov. 8 Nov. 15-16 Nov. 16 Nov. 17 Nov. 21 Nov. 22 Nov. 23 Nov. 26 Nov. 27 Dec. 5
Ludwig Symphony Comedian Josh Blue Chris Tomlin/Louie Giglio Dance: Star of Wonder Atlanta Pet Expo Alejandro Fernandez Hillsong United Macklemore & Ryan Lewis Southern Ballet: A Very Grinchy Christmas Trans-Siberian Orchestra Paramore Bill Gaither Christmas Homecoming
“The Nutcracker” Atlanta Ballet Dec. 6-29. . . . . . . Atlanta (Fox) 404-873-5811 Atlanta Festival Ballet Nov. 16 . . . . . Jonesboro Arts Ctr. 770-507-2775 Dec. 14-15 McDonough Arts Ctr. 770-507-2775 Ballethnic Dance Company Nov. 21-24 . . . . Ferst, Atlanta 404-894-9600 Cartersville City Ballet Dec. 6-7 . . . . . . Grand Theatre 770-386-7343 Columbia City Ballet Nov. 30 . . . Savannah Civic Ctr. 800-351-7469 Dance Augusta Nov. 29-Dec.1 Imperial Theatre 706-722-8341 Dance Theatre of Dalton Dec. 13-21 . . . . . . High School 706-529-5664 Gainesville Ballet Company Dec. 6-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . Brenau 770-532-4241 Georgia Academy of Dance Peachtree City Dec. 14-15 . . . . . High School 770-631-3128 Georgia Ballet Marietta Dec. 6-8 . . . . . . . . . . Civic Center 770-528-0881 Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre Nov. 29-Dec.1. Cobb Civic Ctr. 770-426-0007 Griffin Ballet Theatre Nov. 29-Dec. 1 . . . Griffin Aud. 770-228-1306 Gwinnett Ballet Theatre Dec. 6-22 . . Gwin. Ctr., Duluth 800-224-6422 Lafayette Ballet Troup Arts Center Dec. 6-8. . . . . . . . . . . LaGrange 706-882-9909 Middle Georgia Ballet Macon Dec. 11-15 . . . . . Opera House 478-301-5460 Northeast Georgia Ballet Duluth Nov. 29-Dec. 1 . . . . Gwin. Ctr. 770-921-7277 Nureyev State Ballet Theatre Athens Dec. 21-22 . . . . Classic Center 706-208-0900 Roswell Dance Theatre Nov. 29-Dec. 8 . . . . . . Roswell 770-998-0259 Savannah Dance Theatre Nov. 30 . . . . . . . Lucas Theatre 912-897-2102 South Georgia Ballet Thomasville Nov. 30-Dec. 1 . . . Auditorium 229-378-2787
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LUCAS THEATRE Savannah, 912-525-5050, www.lucastheatre.com
Nov. 14 Nov. 16 Nov. 21 Dec. 13 Dec. 14 Dec. 19-21
Dancing with the Savannah Stars Jim Brickman Savannah Philharmonic/Big Band Pops Muppet Christmas Carol A Christmas Story Christmas Cabaret
MABLE HOUSE AMPHITHEATER Mableton, 770-819-7765, www.mablehouse.org
Nov. 8-10 Annie Dec. 6-15 Christmas House Arts & Crafts Show
MADISON -MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER Madison, 877-233-0598, www.mmcc-arts.org
Dec. 3 Dec. 13
Atlanta Symphony Holiday Concert Community Holiday Concert
MILLER PARK Marietta, 770-528-8875, www.cobbcountyga.gov
Nov. 2-3 Dec. 11
RK Gun Show St. Thomas Catholic Church Our Lady of Guadalupe Eastman Gun Show
Dec. 21-22
NORTH ATLANTA TRADE CENTER Norcross, 770-279-9899, www.northatlantatradecenter.com
Nov. 23-24 Dec. 7-8 Dec. 13-15 Dec. 14-15
Great Train Expo Exotic Bird Fair Rock/Gem/Mineral/Fossil/Jewelry Show Eastman Gun Show
PHILIPS ARENA Atlanta, 404-878-3000, www.philipsarena.com
Nov. 7 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 30 Dec. 1 Dec. 14 Dec. 15 Dec. 17 Dec. 27
Drake Elton John & His Band WWE Smackdown The Story Tour Kanye West Pink Andrea Bocelli Justin Timberlake Jay Z
PUNCHLINE COMEDY THEATRE Atlanta, 404-252-5233, www.punchline.com
Nov. 1-3 Nov. 8-9 Nov. 14 Nov. 15-17 Dec. 19-22
John Heffron Ben Bailey Comedy Night Natasha Leggero Christina Pazsitsky
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
Entertainment Venues in Georgia RIALTO CENTER Atlanta, 404-413-9tix, www.rialtocenter.org
Nov. 1-2 Bale Folciorico da Bahia Nov. 9 Philadanco Dec. 7-8 Gala Holiday Concert
RIVERCENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS Columbus, 706-256-3612, www.rivercenter.org
Nov. 5 Nov. 9 Nov. 14 Nov. 15 Dec. 4-5 Dec. 6 Dec. 15 Dec. 16
Rain: Tribute to Beatles CSO/CSU & Auburn Singers Hot Club of San Franciscso Bebo Norman Memphis CSO/Disney in Concert Gabriel Iglesias Cantus Christmas
ROCK RANCH The Rock, 706-647-6374, www.therockranch.com
Nov. 2 Nov. 9 Nov. 16 Dec. 7, 14
Pumpkin Destruction Day Great Outdoor Adventure Be Farm Strong Breakfast or Lunch with Santa
ROSWELL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
SPIVEY HALL Morrow, 678-466-4200, www.spiveyhall.org
Nov. 2 Nov. 9 Nov 10 Nov. 16 Nov. 17 Nov. 23 Dec. 7 Dec. 8
Paul Jacobs, organ Nicholas Phan, tenor/ Myra Huang, piano Paul Lewis, piano Adam Levin, guitar Jamie Barton, mezzo-soprano Kenny Barron Trio Takacs Quartet Mark O’Connor/ Appalachian Christmas
STRAND THEATRE Marietta, 770-293-0080, www.earlsmithstrand.org
Nov. 7 Nov. 16 Nov. 30
Pat Head Amateur Hour Georgia Symphony Orchestra I Don’t Wanna Bump No More with No Big Fat Woman Dec. 6-22 A Christmas Tradition
THOMASVILLE CENTER FOR THE ARTS 229-226-0588, www.thomasvillearts.org
Nov. 10 Nov. 15-17
Sunday at Four Concert/Americana Plantation Wildlife Arts Festival
770-594-6232, www.roswellgov.com
Dec. 13-14 Dec. 15 Dec. 28
Atlanta Dance: Babes in Toyland/ Nutcracker–Land of Sweets Atlanta Wind Symphony Holiday Sixpence None the Richer
SAUTEE-NACOOCHEE CENTER 706-878-3300, www.snca.org
Nov. 16 Nov. 23, Dec. 28 Nov. 30 Dec. 6-8 Dec. 7 Dec. 13-15
Vientos del Pueblo Concert Community Contra Dances Yonah Brass/Sautee Camerata Sautee Stars: Real Story of Little Red Riding Hood Christmas at the Cabin Community Chorale
SAVANNAH CIVIC CENTER 800-351-7469, www.savannahcivic.com
Thru Nov. 3 Nov. 9 Nov. 13 Nov. 27
Disney on Ice: Princesses & Heroes Mike Epps Joe Bonamassa Cirque Dreams Holidaze
SCHWARTZ CENTER Atlanta, 404-727-5050, www.arts.emory.edu
Nov. 2 Nov. 9 Nov. 15 Dec. 6-7 Dec. 14-15 Dec. 15
Chris Thile, mandolin Pianist Eugene Skovorodnikov Estonian Nat’l. Symphony Orchestra Festival of 9 Lessons & Carols Christmas with Atlanta Master Chorale Santa’s Favorite Chamber Music
Events sometimes change, so phone for information before driving long distances.
UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Athens, 888-289-8497, www.uga.edu/pac
Nov. 7 Nov. 7-17 Nov. 11 Nov. 15 Nov. 18-20 Dec. 2 Dec. 3
Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood Pride & Prejudice Caleb Hudson, trumpet Hal Holbrook as Mark Twain Golden Dragon Acrobats Jive Aces Holiday Concert
* Each
Season Something New
Mistletoe Market & Sugar Plum Tearoom – Nov. 23 & 24 Christmas Parade - Dec. 7 Tree Lighting at Vogel State Park – Dec. 14
877-745-5789 www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com
November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Georgia Holiday Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights Rock City’s 19th annual Enchanted Garden of Lights is an award-winning holiday light extravaganza that will be open November 22 through January 4 from 6-9pm each night with the exception of Christmas Eve. The Enchanted Garden of Lights features an enchanted trail with more than 30 holiday scenes and close to a million LED lights that transform the gardens’ natural daytime splendor into a nocturnal fantasyland. Visit with St. Nick and his elves. Enjoy decorating gingerbread cookies, hot cocoa, the Sugar Plum Fairy Makeovers, and nightly enter tainment at the North Pole Lodge. Group rates are available. Dinner with Santa is also back this year on Dec. 7, 8, 16, and 17. For more information, visit www.seerockcity.com/santa and www.seerockcity.com/lights. Just six miles from downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee, Rock City is an enchanted 4,100 foot walking trail showcasing lush gardens and soaring rock formations. It is open daily from 8:30am4pm. For information, visit www.seerockcity.com or phone 706-820-2531 or 800-854-0675.
Monthly Events in Georgia Nov. & Dec. – TOCCOA – Currahee Club Southern Living Home. 706-886-2132. Nov. 1, Dec. 6 – BRUNSWICK – First Friday, Downtown, 5-8pm. 912-265-4032. Nov. 1, Dec. 6 – SAVANNAH – Oyster Roast/Fireworks, Westin. 912-201-2000. Nov. 1, Dec. 6 – VALDOSTA – First Fridays, Downtown, 6:30-9:30pm. 229-259-3577. Nov. 1-Dec. 28 – WOODBINE – Opry, Fridays & Saturdays, 7-10pm. 912-576-3027. Nov. 1-Dec. 30 – BLAIRSVILLE – Misty Mt. RR Tours, Mon.,Wed.,Fri.,Sat., 2pm. 706-745-9819. Nov. 1-4, 8-11, 15-16, 22-27, 29-30, Dec. 1, 6-8, 13-15, 20-24, 26-31 – BLUE RIDGE – Scenic Train Rides, Scenic Railway. 877-413-8724. Nov. 2, Dec. 7 – SAVANNAH – First
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Saturday on the River. 912-234-0295. Nov. 2, 8, 14, 16, 23, 30, Dec. 5-7, 9-12, 14, 20 – CORDELE – SAM Shortline Excursion Train. 877-427-2457. Nov. 5, Dec. 31 – AUGUSTA – Luncheon Concerts, St. Paul’s Church, noon. 800-726-0243. Nov. 7, Dec. 5 – AUGUSTA – 1st Friday, Downtown, 5-10pm. 706-826-4702. Nov. 8, 16, 27 – AUGUSTA – The Match Girl–musical, Kroc Center. 706-771-7777. Nov. 9, Dec. 14 – ALBANY – Freedom Singers, Civil Rights Institute. 229-432-1698. Nov. 10, Dec. 8 – BRUNSWICK – Sunday Tea Dances, Shoreline Dance Club, 4-6:30pm. 912-634-8219. Nov. 14, Dec. 12 – ELLIJAY – Cherry Log Pickin,’ Gilmer Sr. Ctr., Downtown. 706-635-3786.
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
PHOTO ©12-10-2008 DOUG BARNETTE PHOTOGRAPHY
Ruby Red Christmas at Ruby Falls Enjoy a classic holiday Christmas at Ruby Falls in Chattanooga. Back for its 6th year, Ruby Red Christmas will be held Friday and Saturday nights in December from 5-9pm. The last tour will begin at 8pm. As you approach the Cavern Castle, it will be snowing. Listen to Mrs. Claus read Twas the Night Before Christmas, and then enjoy a specialized Christmas tour of the cave and live music in the Cavern Castle Lobby. Ruby Falls will feature LED lighting throughout the castle and waterfall, and you will meet wonderful costumed characters and be surrounded by holiday acoustical music. After your tour, take a carriage ride and get your picture with Santa. Go to www.rubyfalls.com/christmas for more info. Ruby Falls is America’s deepest commercial cave and largest underground waterfall open to the public. Enjoy a guided tour through the fascinating cavern with its unique rock formation. Ruby Falls is open daily except Christmas Day, from 8am-8pm. Visit www.rubyfalls.com or phone 423-821-2544.
ys are the Best! Blue Ridge Scenic Railway This 26-mile round trip from Blue Ridge to McCaysville offers spectacular views of scenic valleys, forests, rolling hills, and the beautiful Toccoa River. The train, which travels over recently upgraded tracks built more than 100 years ago, is diesel-powered and includes climate-controlled vintage coach cars, an open-air car, and a concession car with snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. The ticket office is in the 100 year old depot in Blue Ridge, only 95 miles north of Atlanta. The Railway will celebrate the holidays from Nov. 29-Dec. 24 with the one-hour Santa Express fun-filled train rides departing various times during the day. Hear a Christmas story, sing Christmas carols, visit with Christmas characters, and visit with Santa as he walks through each train car visiting and posing with the kids for photos. Each passenger will receive the traditional Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Christmas Memento. Night Trains to Santa’s Pavilion on various dates from Nov. 29-Dec. 21 will depart at 4pm from the Blue Ridge Depot for the one hour train ride to McCaysville/Copperhill. Santa will visit with the children in each car and give each child a Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Christmas memento and candy cane. Santa will pose with the passengers for pictures on the train or in the Christmas Pavilion. During the two hour layover visitors can dine at restaurants or shop at antique and gift shops, and visit Santa at his workshop. The train will return to Blue Ridge at 8pm. Seats are limited; and advance reservations are required. For schedules, ticket prices, and more information, visit www.brscenic.com, or e-mail info@brscenic.com, or phone 877-4138724 or 706-632-8724.
Christmas in the Mountains of White County Christmas in the Mountains is a magical time in White County. Holiday festivities will begin at BabyLand General’s Appalachian Christmas in Cleveland on Nov. 23. The Festival of Trees at Unicoi State Park will be held Nov. 27-Dec. 14. Trees and wreaths will be theme decorated and on display for a silent auction that will end on Dec. 14 at 2pm. Also at Unicoi, Deck the Halls on Dec. 7 will include holiday crafts, hayrides, and music in the decorated lodge. Admission will be free; parking will be $2. Helen, a quaint Bavarian village in Northeast Georgia, will kick off the holiday season with the Lighting of the Village on Nov. 29 at 6pm. The Christmas parade will take place on Dec. 7 at 2pm. Cleveland will celebrate with a “Christmas in the Mountains Festival.” Festivities will begin Dec. 7 at 3pm with pictures with Santa, choral groups, arts and crafts and food vendors, children’s activities, and a lighted parade at 7pm. Other events will include a Christkindlemarkt in Helen on Nov. 29-Dec. 1 and Dec. 7-8, and Nacoochee Village Christmas in Helen on Dec. 14. For information, visit www.whitecountychamber.org, phone 706-865-5356 or 800-392-8279, or e-mail whitecountychamber@whitecountychamber.org.
Monthly Events in Georgia Nov. 15, Dec. 20 – VALDOSTA – Art After Dark, Downtown, 6-9pm. 229-245-0513. Nov. 16, Dec. 21 – BLUE RIDGE – Art Walk, Downtown, 5-8pm. 706-632-1718. Nov. 21-Dec. 1 – AUGUSTA – Holiday
Gingerbread Village, Augusta Museum of History 800-726-0243. Nov. 23-Dec. 1 – WARNER ROBINS – Middle Ga. Model RR Club train display, Museum of Aviation. 888-288-9742. Nov. 23, 30, Dec. 7 – ST. MARYS – Santa Express Train Ride. 912-200-5235.
November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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A Hometown Holiday in Conyers There’s no place like home for a Hometown Holiday like Conyers, Georgia. The holiday season in Conyers begins with the opening of the Olde Town Conyers Pavilion Ice Skating Rink at 949 South Main Street on Nov. 15. The rink will be open through Jan. 5. Hours of operation vary, so call the Conyers Welcome Center at 1-800-CONYERS or visit www.icedays.com for a schedule. The Olde Town Christmas Party on Friday, Dec. 6, from 5-8pm will feature complimentary carriage rides, shopping and dining opportunities, visits with Santa, and a Secret Santa Christmas Parades Shop for kids in the Conyers Welcome Center. Other events will include the NOVEMBER Covington-Conyers Choral Guild Concert on 29 Stone Mountain . . . . . .5pm 770-413-0607 Dec. 6 at 8pm at the Rockdale Auditorium; the DECEMBER Hometown Holiday Parade on Saturday, Dec. 2 Thomasville . . . . . . .6:30pm 229-226-3446 7, at 4:30pm and the Tree Lighting later that 3 Rome . . . . . . . . . . . .6:30pm 800-444-1834 day at 6pm; the Atlanta Boy Choir Concert on 3 Smyrna . . . . . . . . . . . . .7pm 678-631-5541 Dec. 7 at 7pm and the Play of Herod Concert 5 Athens . . . . . . . . . . . . .7pm 706-613-3620 on Dec. 14, both at the Monastery of the Holy 5 Cartersville . . . . . . . . . .6pm 800-733-2280 Spirit. 5 Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . .5pm 706-782-1520 For information on these events and on 5 Cochran . . . . . . . . . . . .7pm 478-934-2965 Conyers, which is located only 25 miles east 5 Fitzgerald . . . . . . . . .6:30pm 800-386-4642 of Atlanta, visit www.visitconyersga.com or 5 Forsyth . . . . . . . . . . . . .7pm 888-288-9742 call 1-800-CONYERS. 5 LaGrange . . . . . . . . . . .6pm 706-884-8671 6 Rockmart . . . . . . . . . . .6pm 770-684-5454 7 Albany . . . . . . . . . . . . .5pm 229-883-8330 7 Atlanta . . . (dntn) 10:30am 404-785-7337 7 Baldwin . . . . . . . . . . . .11am 706-778-6341 7 Baxley . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6pm 912-367-7731 7 Blairsville . . . . . . . . . . .2pm 877-745-5789 7 Brunswick . . . . . . . . . .10am 912-265-4032 7 Byron . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1pm 478-956-2409 7 Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . .5pm 706-782-1520 7 Cleveland . . . . . . . . . . .7pm 706-865-5356 7 Conyers . . . . . . . . . .4:30pm 800-conyers 7 Dahlonega . . . . . . . . . .5pm 706-864-3513 7 Douglas . . . . . . . . . .6:30pm 912-383-0277 November 7 Fort Valley . . . . . . . . . .5pm 478-825-3733 7 Griffin . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6pm 770-228-8200 1 – ELLIJAY – Acoustic Blends at Gilmer Arts 7 Helen . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2pm 706-878-2181 Center, 7-9pm. 706-635-5605. 7 Jasper . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6pm 706-692-1164 1 – EVANS – Al Stewart, Hardin Performing 7 Kennesaw . . . . . . . . . . .1pm 770-422-9714 Arts Center, 7:30pm. 706-726-0366. 7 Loganville . . . . . . . .5:30pm 770-466-1165 1 – HELEN – Travis Tritt Tribute Band, Helen 7 Manchester . . . . . . . . .11am 706-846-3741 Theater, 8pm. 706-969-5671. 7 McCaysville . . . . . . . . .2pm 800-899-6867 1 – KINGSLAND – King’s Bay Submarine 7 Perry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4pm 478-988-8000 Base Subvet Memorial Service. 912-882-2782. 7 Richmond Hill . . . . . . .10am 912-756-3345 1-2 – BRUNSWICK – Coastal Georgia 7 Roberta . . . . . . . . . . . . .5pm 478-836-3825 Regional Fair. 800-933-2627. 7 Savannah . . . . . . . . .5:30pm 912-234-0295 1-2 – CARTERSVILLE – Nighttime Hayrides/ 7 Thomson . . . . . . . . . . .3pm 706-597-1000 Native American Storytelling, Etowah Indian 7 Toccoa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 706-716-0490 Mounds. 770-387-3747. 7 Tybee Island . . . . . . . . .1pm 912-786-5444 1-2 – LUMPKIN – Westville Village Fall 7 Valdosta . . . . . . . . . . . .5pm 229-259-3577 Festival. 912-882-4000. 7 Warner Robins . . . . . .10am 888-288-9742 1-2 – SAVANNAH – Film Festival, Trustees 7 Waycross . . . . . . . . .6:30pm 912-287-2946 Theater. 912-525-5050. 7 Woodbine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 912-576-3211 1-3 – CLEVELAND – Hemlock Festival, 8 Newnan . . . . . . . . . . . .3pm 770-254-2627 Starbridge Farm. 706-864-9003. 10 Tallapoosa . . . . . . . . . . .7pm 770-574-2482 1-3 – TYBEE ISLAND – Arts Assocition 12 Bainbridge . . . . . . . .6:30pm 229-243-8555 Show & Sale. 877-savannah. 12 Calhoun . . . . . . . . . . . .7pm 706-625-3200 1-4 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Southern Living 12 Moultrie . . . . . . . . . . . .6pm 229-890-5456 Showcase Home, 191 Stillwater Dr. 912-638-1980. 14 Cave Spring . . . . . . . . .6pm 800-444-1834 2 – ALBANY – Book Signing by Bobby Deen, 14 Madison . . . . . . . . .3:30pm 706-342-1251 Welcome Center, 10m-2pm. 229-317-4760.
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GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
Holidays on Georgia’s Peach Blossom Trail Drive off the Interstate during the holidays and take the road less traveled-along the Peach Blossom Trail. For information, visit www.peachblossomtrail.com or phone 888-288-9742. November will bring the comedy Baggage to the Warner Robins Little Theatre on Nov. 1-16. Love Planes and Trains? Visit the 6th annual Planes and Trains Exhibit at the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins on Nov. 23-Dec. 1. Visit www.mgmrc.org for more information. The 56th Annual Warner Robins Christmas Parade is scheduled for December 7 at 10am. See the beautiful Camellias at the Camellia Blossom Show at the Byron Conference Center in Byron November 9-10. While in town, visit the Gingerbread Market on November 16 at the Byron Baptist Church from 9am-2pm. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from November 29-December 21, visit the Peach Shops at Byron for the Holiday Art & Craft Mart. Just down the road in Perry the Mistletoe Market will be held November 22-24 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds. During the entire month of December enjoy Christmas at the November Crossroads in Perry. For a full list of events, 2 – BOSTWICK – Cotton Gin Festival. 706visit www.christmasatthecrossroads.info. 342-0182. The Festival of Lights will feature a million 2 – CASSVILLE – Burning of Cassville/Confedlights in Fort Valley from Nov. 30-Jan. 5. Join erate Cemetery Luminaries. 678-322-6967. the Fort Valley Mayor on December 5 for his 2 – MANCHESTER – Veterans Day Parade, annual Christmas Party at 7pm at the Austin 11am. 706-846-3141. Theatre. The Christmas parade will be Dec. 7 2 – PINE MOUNTAIN – Creek Indian at 5pm, and the Holiday Market Arts & Crafts Campfire/Billy Winn, FDR St. Pk. 706-663-4858. Fair will be Dec. 7 from 9am-3pm. 2 – TATE – Tate Day, Downtown. 770-7352564. 2 – WARM SPRINGS – Fala Day Festival, Downtown. 800-FDR-1927. 2 – WARNER ROBINS – Family Fest Food & Games, Perkins Field. 888-288-WRGA. 2-3 – RISING FAWN – Mountain Arts & Crafts, Cloudland Canyon St. Pk. 706-657-4050. 2-3 – SOPERTON – Million Pines Arts & Crafts Festival. 912-529-6611. 2-3 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Antique Show, Postell Park. 912-267-7822. 2-3 – TOCCOA – Harvest Fest & Currahee Artists Guild Fall Arts Festival. 706-886-2132. 3 – BUFORD – BBQ, Boots, & Blues Festival, Lake Lanier Islands Amphitheater. 770-945-8787. 3-4 – TOCCOA – Toccoa Harvest Festival. 877-6toccoa. 4 – CALHOUN – Festival of Trees, Harris Arts Center. 706-629-2599. 5 – DARIEN – Fall Festival, Ashantilly Center, 11am-2pm. 912-437-4473. 7 – CARTERSVILLE – Designer Handbag w. Goodies Auction, Brown Conf. Ctr. 770-606-5763. 7 – SAVANNAH – Brews & Bites, Skidaway Island State Park, 6-9pm. 912-598-2300. 8 – ATHENS – Randy Rogers Band, Georgia Theatre. 706-549-9918. 8 – CARTERSVILLE – Singing Cookies, Brown Conference Center, 7pm. 706-252-1048. 8-9 – AUGUSTA – Augusta & the Civil War, Morris Museum. 800-726-0243. November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Holiday Happenings in Calhoun The Harris Arts Center galleries transform into a winter wonderland of 100 beautifully decorated, themed Christmas trees, wreaths, and centerpieces November 4-December 8 during the Festival of Trees & Holiday Artists’ Market. Admission will be free. Downtown Calhoun will celebrate Farm City Week November 2228. A street festival on November 23 will feature a variety of food, arts, crafts, games, animal exhibits, inflatables, tractor rides, and entertainment. The week will conclude with the arrival of Santa and the tree lighting on Thanksgiving night. Grab a candle and walking shoes and experience Christmas with decorations, music, and refreshments reminiscent of the 19th Century Cherokee Nation Capital during the New Echota Christmas Candlelight Tour December 7 from 6-9:30pm. Admission will be $5.50-$7.50. Shop the sales at Calhoun Premium Outlets, and find unique gifts in Downtown Calhoun. There is something for everyone on your list. Enjoy the sounds of the season at concerts and plays at the GEM Theatre and Harris Arts Center. Sip hot chocolate and admire creative floats during the annual Christmas Parade of Lights. You are certain to leave Gordon County in the holiday spirit. For information on these events and more, visit www.exploregordoncounty.com or call 800-887-3811.
November 8-9 – ROME – Music Festival, DeSoto Theatre. 706-295-7171. 8-9 – ROME – Christmas in November Homemaker Bazaar, Civic Center. 706-766-5123. 8-10 – CONYERS – Great American RV Show, Georgia Int’l. Horse Park. 888-860-4224. 8-10 – FITZGERALD – Harmony Jubilee. 229-426-5035. 8-10 – NORTH GEORGIA – Winter Arts Tour, 4 counties. 706-778-4654. 8-10 – SAVANNAH – Telfair Art Fair, Downtown. 877-savannah. 9 – ALBANY – S. W. Georgia High Cotton 65-Mile Yard Sale, GA 37. 866-750-0840. 9 – ALBANY – Uncorked & Unplugged, Veterans Pk. Amph., 5-10pm. 866-750-0840. 9 – CARTERSVILLE – Indoor Arts & Crafts Fair, Civic Center. 770-387-5625. 9 – CORDELE – Tribute to Veterans, Georgia Veterans State Park. 229-276-2371. 9 – DARIEN – Encampment/re-enactors & living historians, Ft. King George. 912-437-4770. 9 – JASPER – Taste of Pickens, Chattahoochee Technical College. 706-692-1164. 9 – JULIETTE – Syrup Making, Jarrell Plantation. 478-986-5172.
9 – NICHOLS – Pioneer Harvest Festival, General Coffee State Park. 912-384-1581. 9 – OCHLOCKNEE – Old South Day Festival. 229-574-5151. 9 – ST. MARYS – Wounded Warriors Day, Downtown. 912-882-4000. 9 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Christmas at the Lighthouse/Holiday Open House. 912-638-4666. 9-10 – AUGUSTA – Oka’Chaffa Indian Festival, Phinizy Swamp Nature Pk. 706-828-2109. 9-10 – HELEN – Civil War Expo, Riverside Park. 706-878-2181. 10 – NEWNAN – Holiday Open House, 1-5pm. 770-254-2627. 10 – SUWANEE – Classic Car Show. Town Center Park. 770-945-8996. 11 – KINGSLAND – Veterans Day Parade, Downtown, 10am. 912-729-7933. 11 – RICHMOND HILL – Veterans Day Celebration, Gregory Park, 11am. 912-756-3345. 11 – SAVANNAH – Veterans Day, Nat’l. Museum of Mighty 8th Air Force. 912-748-8888. 11 – WARNER ROBINS – Vet Fest with Food & Free Concert, Ardagn Field. 888-288-WRGA. 11-17 – SAVANNAH – Food and Wine Festival. 912-232-1223. 12 – DALTON – Jordan World Circus, Trade Center. 702-456-2642.
COMING TO DOUGLAS MARCH 28 & 29, 2014
NOW
ACCEPTING VENDORS!
•Arts & Crafts •Food •Motorcycles •BBQ and more! Events include: Douglas BBQ Cookoff, Tyte Whip Car Show, Poker Run, Motorcycle Show, Show Planes, Blues Entertainment
912-383-0277 •www.cityofdouglas.com/bbbfest 20 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
National Civil War Naval Museum A Victorian Christmas will be held December 7 & 8 at the National Civil War Naval Museum which will be decorated in traditional Victorian holiday style with circa 1863 decorations and trees. The event takes place during regular operating hours and is free admission. The program will feature carolers, Victorian Era entertainment/music, hospitality from local bakeries/coffee shops, and shopping. The museum will be open for guests to tour. Civil War Era Santa will be back again this year to listen to children’s want lists. Photos with Santa will be available. Santa, as we know him, first appeared at an army camp to pass out presents to soldiers. Prominent political cartoonist Thomas Nash’s 1863 image depicted a jolly, plump, bearded man delivering gifts to Union troops at their encampment, wearing a fur-trimmed suit of patriotic stars and stripes. Enjoy unique shopping in the museum store and explore naval operations for the North and South through displays of uniforms, artillery, firearms, personal effects, flags, murals, a timeline exhibit, ships and ship replicas. Open Sun.-Mon. 12:30-4:30pm and Tues.-Sat. 10am-4:30pm. Located at 1002 Victory Drive, Columbus. For information, phone 706-327-9798 or visit www.portcolumbus.org.
November 14 – COLUMBUS – Civil War Ironclads Film Premiere, Civil War Naval Museum, 7pm. 706327-9798. 14 – MADISON – Dancing with Madison’s Stars, 7-10pm. 706-342-1565. 14 – RICHMOND HILL – Taste of Richmond Hill, City Center, 5:30-7pm. 912-756-2676. 15 – ALBANY – Albany Symphony Orchestra Gala Dinner Dance, Hilton Gdn. Inn. 866-750-0840. 15 – ALBANY – Don D.C. Curry Comedy Show, Civic Center. 866-750-0840. 15 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Little Picture Show, Left Bank Art Gallery. 912-638-3017. 15 – THOMASVILLE – Violinist Minyoung Cho, Thomas Univ., noon. 229-226-6964. 15-17 – WARM SPRINGS – Candlelight Tour, Downtown Village. 800-FDR-1927. 16 – ALBANY – Albany Symphony Orchestra, Munc. Aud., 2:30pm. 866-750-0840. 16 – ATHENS – Rock Gem Show, Sandy Creek Nature Center. 706-613-3615. 16 – BYRON – Gingerbread Market, Byron Baptist Church, 9am-2pm. 888-288-9742. 16 – JASPER – Holiday Marketplace & Expo, Chattahoochee Tech. College. 770-893-3476. 16 – PAVO – Bull, Boar, Fowl BBQ Cook-Off and Festival. 229-225-6134. 16 – PLAINS – Car, Truck, Motorcycle Show, Downtown. 229-824-3462. 16 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Fashion Show & Luncheon, Lighthouse, noon. 912-634-7095. 16 – THOMASVILLE – Holiday Diva Day Expo, Fairgrounds. 229-226-2400. 16 – TWIN CITY – Sugar Cane Festival, Smith State Park, 478-763-2759. 16-17 – BLUE RIDGE – Nat’l. American Indian Fall Festival, Flea Market. 706-897-5799.
19 – SAVANNAH – Savannah Winds, Armstrong Auditorium, 7:30pm. 912-344-2801. 19 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Atlanta Guitar Trio, 205 Kings Way. 912-262-6934. 21 – BLAIRSVILLE – Shape Note Singing, Courthouse, 6:30pm. 877-745-5789. 22 – ALBANY – Mistletoe Market, Civic Center. 866-750-0840. 22-24 – DAWSONVILLE – Amicalola State Park Holiday Show. 706-897-6179. 22-24 – PERRY – Mistletoe Market, Ga. Nat’l. Fairgrounds. 888-288-9742. 22-24 – RUTLEDGE – Christmas in the Country, Downtown. 706-474-2290. 22-24 – VALDOSTA – Merry Marketplace, Rainwater Conference Center. 229-630-6014.
Pecan Candies Pecan Pies Gift Boxes and Tins Roasted Pecans Pecan Halves Pecan Pieces Inshell Pecans
P.O. Box 39, Hwy. 520, Weston, GA 31832 merritt@merritt-pecan.com Phone 1-800-762-9152 Fax 229-828-2061
November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Annual Festival of Lights Parade in Douglas The Annual Festival of Lights Parade will be held in Douglas on Saturday, December 7, at 6:30pm. The theme for this year’s parade will be “Celebrating the Golden Years.” One of the largest night-time parades in South Georgia, this event will feature over 100 entries and will be watched by over 25,000 spectators. Festivities will begin at 6pm with the 5K Run along the parade route. The Annual Festival of Lights Parade will light up Peterson Avenue at 6:30pm and make its way from the Coffee County Courthouse to the Coffee Career Center. Douglas will also host other events during the Holiday Season beginning with the Downtown Holiday Open House on Nov. 24 from 1-5pm; Santa Stroll on Dec. 14 from 1:30-5:30pm; and Christmas on the Pond at Gen. Coffee State Park on Dec. 14 from 6-9pm. For more information, call 912-383-0277 or visit www.CityofDouglas.com.
November 22-28 – CALHOUN – Farm City Week with Street Festival on Nov. 23. 800-887-3811. 23 – BLUE RIDGE – Holiday Art Show & Sale Opens (til Jan. 10), Old Courthouse. 706-632-2144. 23 – CLEVELAND – BabyLand General’s Appalachian Christmas. 800-392-8279 or 706865-2171. 23 – FOLKSTON – Sugar Cane Grinding/ Syrup Boil, Okefenokee Refuge. 912-496-7836. 23 – JULIETTE – Battle of Griswoldville Commemoration, Jarrell Plantation 478-986-5172. 23 – MIDWAY – American Revolution Encampment, Fort Morris. 912-884-5999. 23 – PLAINS – Cane Syrup Day, Jimmy Carter National Historic Site. 229-824-4104. 23-24 – BLAIRSVILLE – Mistletoe Market/ Sugarplum Tea Room, North Georgia Technical College. 706-896-0932 or 877-745-5789. 23-24 – CARTERSVILLE – Gun Shows of the South, Brown Conference Ctr. 770-606-5763.
15th Annual
23-24 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Mistletoe Market, Glynn Art Gallery. 912-638-8770. 23-Dec. 1 – WARNER ROBINS – Planes & Trains Exhibit, Museum of Aviation. 478-926-6870. 24 – BAINBRIDGE – Holiday Open House, Downtown. 229-243-8555. 24 – CARTERSVILLE – Christmas at Grand Oaks. 770-382-6322. 24 – DOUGLAS – Downtown Holiday Open House, 1-5pm. 912-383-0277. 26 – GRIFFIN – Airport Road Park Festival of Trees, 6pm. 770-229-6400. 26-30 – BLAIRSVILLE – Moon Alpaca Farm/Studio Open House. 706-835-1837. 29-Dec. 1 – CLEVELAND – Holiday Celebration & Live Nativity, N. Ga. Zoo. 706-348-7279. 29-Dec. 1 – YOUNG HARRIS – Brasstown Resort Holiday Arts/Crafts Show. 706-897-6179. 30 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Very Motown Christmas Concert, Conv. Ctr., 8:15pm. 912-399-7799. 30 – SAVANNAH – Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, Savannah River. 877-savannah.
Sat. 11 am to 11 pm
Holiday Tours of Homes
2 01 3
Latino Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe December 14 Folk Music • Games • Piñatas • Dancing • Food Greased Pole • Mechanical Bull • Children’s Events CANTYRE ST. & BARNSLEY RD.
PORT WENTWORTH 912-965-1999 www.VisitPortWentworth.com 22
DECEMBER 5-8 Madison . . . . . . . . . . . .706-342-9627 6 Newan . . . . . . . . . . . . .770-400-2380 6-7 Decatur . . . . . . . . . . . .404-370-4100 7 Fort Benning . . . . . . . . .800-999-1613 7 Hiawassee . . . . . . . . . .706-896-4966 7 Sea Island . . . . . . . . . . .912-399-1152 7 Thomson . . . . . . . . . . .706-597-1000 7-8 Atlanta (Vir.-High.) . . . .678-901-9683 7-8 Marietta . . . . . . . . . . . .770-429-1115 8 Griffin . . . . . . . . . . . . . .770-228-8200 8 Senoia . . . . . . . . . . . . .770-254-2627 13-14 Washington . . . . . . . . .706-678-2013 13-15 Savannah . . . . . . . . . . .912-236-8362 14 St. Marys . . . . . . . . . . .912-882-4000 14 Stone Mountain . . . . . .770-413-0607
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
Christmas in Blairsville The Mistletoe Market & Sugar Plum Tearoom will be held Nov. 23-24 at the North Georgia Technical College in Blairsville. The artists and crafters will be in the indoor Conference Center; in the café area the popular Tearoom will serve salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts. Parking and admission will be free. Phone 706-896-0932. The North Georgia Symphony Orchestra will perform at the Union County Historical Museum on Dec. 6 at 7pm. The Kris Kringle Mountain Market on Dec. 6 from 4-8pm & Dec. 7 from 10am-3pm at the Farmers Market will be reminiscent of European Holiday Markets. A Christmas Parade will be held Saturday, Dec. 7, beginning at 2pm. Pictures with Santa Claus and face painting are scheduled in the Old Court House for 11am-1pm prior to the parade. Other events that day will include a free Open House at the Mountain Life Museum. Complimentary refreshments will be served. Enjoy cookies, cakes, and drinks. All of the exhibits at the Old Courthouse will be open during the day. A Christmas Tree Lighting at Vogel State Park on Dec. 14 from 4-6:30pm will feature caroling, hayrides, bonfire, hot chocolate & cider, and a visit from Santa. Unwrapped gifts for children can be donated to the Sheriff’s Dept. Toy Drive. Parking will be $5. Phone 706-745-2628. For more information, call 877-745-5789 or visit www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com.
December 1 – TOCCOA – Symphony Orchestra, Georgia Baptist Conference Center. 706-886-8614. 2 – LUMPKIN – Deck the Halls at Westville Village. 888-733-1850. 5 – FORT VALLEY – Mayor’s Christmas Party, Austin Theatre, 7pm. 478-825-3733. 6 – BLAIRSVILLE – North Georgia Symphony Orchestra, Historical Museum, 7pm. 877-745-5789. 6 – BRUNSWICK – Plantation Christmas, Hofwyl Plantation, 6-9pm. 912-264-7333. 6 – COLUMBUS – Uptown Columbus Holiday Kick-off, 5pm. 706-596-0111. 6 – CONYERS – Olde Town Christmas Party, 5-8pm. 800-Conyers or 770-602-2606. 6 – CONYERS – Covington-Conyers Choral Guild, Rockdale Auditorium, 8pm. 770-761-0474. 6 – RICHMOND HILL – Chili Cook-Off & Holiday Fun, 520 Cedar St. 912-756-3345. 6 – SAVANNAH – Holiday Open House, City Market. 912-232-4903. 6-7 – BLAIRSVILLE – Kris Kringle Mountain Market, Farmers Market. 877-745-5789. 6-7 – BLUE RIDGE – Holiday Wine Weekend (14 Wineries). 706-623-8463. 6-7 – SAVANNAH – Christmas on the River & Lighted Parade. 912-234-0295. 6-7 – TOCCOA – Festival of Trees, Downtown. 706-282-3309. 6-8 – ALBANY – Ballet Theatre South: Peter Pan. 866-432-2444. 6-8 – MACON – Holiday Marketplace, The Neel House. 478-742-0921. 7 – ALBANY – Celtic Holiday Celebration, Darton State College, 2:30pm. 866-750-0840. 7 – BLAIRSVILLE – Holiday on the Square, 1-6pm. 706-745-5493. 7 – BRUNSWICK – Holiday Bazaar, Mary Ross Waterfront Park. 912-262-6934.
7 – BRUNSWICK – Christmas Boat Parade of Lights, Waterfront Park, 6-8pm. 912-265-4032. 7 – CALHOUN – New Echota Christmas Candlelight Tour. 800-887-3811. 7 – CARTERSVILLE – Christmas at Red Top Mountain State Park. 770-975-4226. 7 – CLEVELAND – Christmas in the Mountains Festival, Downtown. 706-865-5356 or 800-392-8279.
Kicking off the Holiday Season in Warner Robins November 23-December 1
Planes & Trains Exhibit Museum of Aviation, Century of Flight Hangar December 7 56th Annual Regional Chamber
Christmas Parade “Christmas Around the World” •10am featuring NBC’s Today Show Weatherman, Al Roker and wife, ABC News Correspondent, Deborah Roberts as Grand Marshal Visit for the Holidays and Get Some Fun
Rigby’s Entertainment Complex 2001 Karl Drive, Warner Robins •478-287-6465 December 7
Science with Santa Museum of Aviation Visit www.museumofaviation.org to register. 1900+ Hotel Rooms 105 Restaurants 1200 Seat Civic Center Conference & Meeting Spaces 888-288-WRGA • I-75 Exits 144 & 146 www.warnerrobinsvisitorscenter.com
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Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival in Port Wentworth The 15th annual Latin Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be held in Port Wentworth on December 14 from 11am-11pm. The event will be held at the soccer fields at Cantyre Street and Barnsley Road and will feature folk music, games, piñatas, dancing, a greased pole, a mechanical bull, food, and children’s events. A national holiday in Mexico, the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe holds religious significance for Roman Catholics who honor Dec. 12 as the day Juan Diego, a 16th century American Indian, said the Virgin Mary appeared to him on a hillside in Guadalupe. The image of the Lady of Guadalupe is on display in the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City and is perhaps Mexico’s most popular religious and cultural image and the focus of an extensive pilgrimage. For more information, contact the Port Wentworth Chamber of Commerce at 912-965-1999 or www.VisitPortWentworth.com.
Tree Lighting Ceremonies NOVEMBER 26 Griffin (Airport Rd.) . . .6pm 26 Hapeville . . . . . . . .5:30pm 28 Atlanta (Lenox) . . .6:15pm 28 Lawrenceville . . .6-8:30pm 29 Brunswick . . . . . . .5:30pm 29 Dahlonega . . . . . . . . . .dusk 29 Ellijay (parade) . . . . . . .6pm 29 Helen . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6pm 29 Loganville . . . . . .6-8:30pm 30 Blue Ridge . . . .11am-dusk 30 Duluth . . . . . . . . . .6:30pm 30 Jekyll Island . . . . . . . . .4pm 30 Plains (parade) . . . . . . 6pm DECEMBER 2 Forsyth . . . . . . . . . . . .6pm 3 Kingsland . . . . . . . . .4-7pm 3 Smyrna . . . . . . . . . . .5-9pm 3 St. Marys . . . . . . . . . . .dusk 5 Bainbridge . . . . . . . . . .6pm 5 Cartersville (parade) . .5pm 5 Marietta . . . . . . . . . .5-8pm 6 Acworth . . . . . . .6:30-9pm 6 Alpharetta . . . . . . . . . .5pm
770-259-3577 404-669-8269 404-233-6767 770-466-1165 912-265-4032 706-864-3513 706-635-7400 706-878-2181 770-283-9016 800-899-7415 770-476-3434 912-653-3636 229-824-5373 888-642-4628 912-729-5999 770-434-6600 912-882-4000 229-243-8555 770-607-3480 770-429-1115 770-917-1234 678-297-6078
6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 12 14 14
Norcross . . . . . . . . . . .dusk Suwanee . . . . . . . . .6:30pm Toccoa . . . . . . . . . . . . .8pm Tybee Island . . . . . .6:30pm Augusta . . . . . . . . . . . .6pm Blairsville (parade) . .2-6pm Buford . . . . . . . . . . . . .5pm Conyers . . . . . . . . . . . .6pm Griffin (Dntn) . . . . . . .7pm Jasper (parade) . . . . .3-9pm Kennesaw . . . . . . .12-6pm McDonough . . . . . . . .6pm Morrow . . . . . . . . . .2-7pm Riverdale . . . . . . . . .5-8pm Roswell . . . . . . . . . . . .5pm Senoia (parade) . . . .4-8pm Social Circle . . . . . .5:30pm Sugar Hill . . .5:30-8:30pm Thomson . . . . . . . . . . .6pm Atlanta (Gov. Mansion) 6:30pm Grayson . . . . . . .2-6:30pm Warrenton . . . . . . . . . .5pm Blairsville (Vogel) . . . . .4pm Clarkesville . . . . . . . .6-8pm
770-448-2122 770-945-8996 706-282-3309 912-786-5444 706-821-1754 706-745-5493 770-623-3600 706-602-2606 770-228-5356 706-692-1164 770-422-9714 770-288-7300 770-968-1623 770-909-5300 770-641-3705 770-254-2627 770-464-1866 770-945-6716 706-597-1000 404-261-1776 770-963-8017 706-465-9604 706-745-2628 706-968-4190
Enjoy the convenience of having the “Guide To Georgia” mailed directly to you 4 issues for $10 per year – Spring • Summer • Fall • Holiday Name ______________________________________________ Phone________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ City ______________________________________ State_______ Zip________________
Mail to: Guide To Georgia, 801 Nebula Road, Manchester, GA 31816 24
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
Merritt Pecan Company in Weston Merritt Pecan Company, located on Hwy. 520 in Weston, specializes in farm-fresh pecans and offers a large selection of items including pecans, pecan candies, brittle, divinity, jams, jellies, sauces, souvenirs, homemade pies and cakes, t-shirts, and cookbooks. Gift baskets are available and can be customized. The pecans are grown and harvested on their farms and processed at their plant. The company, in business since 1980, is halfway between Albany and Columbus. It has a Chevron Foodmart and offers convenience store items, BBQ sandwiches, hot wings, hot dogs, cheeseburger dogs, sausage biscuits, and other food items. The store also offers a picnic area with tables for customers, an inside ATM, clean restrooms, walking area for dogs, and bus and camper parking. Local produce items, ranging from peas to peaches, are available when in season. Football fans will find souvenir items for Georgia, Auburn, and other local teams ranging from books to back scratchers! Merritt Pecan Company, offering a “step back in time” to the days of the general store, is decorated with interesting memorabilia, has a display of John Deere toys inside, and an antique tractor barn featuring John Deere tractors and other antique tools. The store is open from 7am-7pm daily except for Christmas Day. Phone 800-762-9152 or visit www.merritt-pecan.com.
December 7 – CONYERS – Atlanta Boy Choir Concert, Monastery of the Holy Spirit, 7pm. 800-Conyers. 7 – CORNELIA – Habersham Film Festival, Library. 706-778-4654. 7 – DARIEN – Christmas Gallery Show & Open House, 6-8pm. 912-437-7711. 7 – DOUGLAS – Festival of Lights Parade, 6:30p.m. 912-383-0277. 7 – FORT VALLEY – Holiday Market Arts & Crafts Fair. 478-825-3733. 7 – GRIFFIN – Downtown Open House & Mistletoe Market, Welcome Ctr. 770-229-6400. 7 – HELEN – Deck the Halls, Unicoi State Park. 800-573-9659. 7 – JULIETTE – Jarrell Plantation Christmas, 1-4pm. 478-986-5172. 7 – JEKYLL ISLAND – 1920’s Christmas Party, Jennings Home, 2-4pm. 912-635-4036. 7 – LUMPKIN – Christmas at Westville, 10am-6pm. 888-733-1850. 7 – MANCHESTER – Festival of Trees. Community Building. 706-846-3141. 7 – MILLEN – Civil War Encampment/ Heritage Festival, Magnolia Spgs. St. Pk. 478-982-1660. 7 – OMAHA – Christmas on the Lake, Florence Marina State Park. 229-838-4706. 7 – RICHMOND HILL – Christmas on the Ogeechee Boat Parade & Fireworks, 6-9pm. 912-547-0149. 7 – ROME – Small Town Christmas in the Country, Rolater Park. 888-444-1834. 7 – SAVANNAH – City Market Christmas for Kids. 912-232-4903. 7 – ST. MARYS – Christmas in the Park, 128pm. 912-882-4000. Christmas Bazaar, St. Marks Episcopal Church. 912-576-3397. 7 – THOMSON– Festival Off Main. 706-597-1000. 7 – WARM SPRINGS – Pearl Harbor Remembered, FDR Little White House. 706-655-5870.
November 8-10 – Northeast Georgia 2013 Winter Arts Tour, www.artstour.org 23 – Appalachian Christmas, Babyland General® Hospital, 706-865-2171 29-Dec. 1 – Christkindlmarkt – Downtown Helen, 706-878-1908 29 – Annual Lighting of the Village, 6 pm, Downtown Helen, 706-878-2181
December Nov. 27- Dec. 14 – Festival of Trees, Unicoi State Park, 1-800-573-9659 7-8 – Christkindlmarkt, Downtown Helen, 706-878-1908 7 – Deck the Halls, Unicoi State Park, 1-800-573-9659 7 – Christmas Parade, Dntwn. Helen, 2 pm, 706-878-2181 7 – Christmas in the Mountains Festival, 3-8pm, Downtown Cleveland, Lighted Christmas Parade, Downtown Cleveland, 7 pm, 706-865-5356 14 – Nacoochee Village Christmas, Nacoochee Village, 706-878-2181
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Holiday Celebrations in Peach County Downtown Fort Valley will boast over a million glowing holiday lights during the Festival of Lights November 30-January 5. The extravaganza will feature lights in the downtown gazebo, the outlining of the business area, stand-alone picture displays throughout the town, and the lighting of the approaches to the city. Holiday events in downtown Fort Valley will include the Mayor’s Christmas Party at the Austin Theatre on Dec. 5 at 7pm, a parade on Dec. 7 at 5pm, and a Holiday Market Arts & Crafts Fair on Dec. 7 from 9am-3pm. In nearby Byron, the Gingerbread Market will be held at the Byron Baptist Church Gym on November 16 from 9am-2pm. The parade will be Dec. 7 at 1pm. Byron will have the Holiday Art Mart November 29-December 21 on Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays featuring Georgia made products. Fort Valley, Byron, and Peach County are located two hours south of Atlanta on I-75, exits 149136. For information, call 478-825-3733 or 478-956-2409 or visit www.peachchamber.com.
December 7 – WARNER ROBINS – Science with Santa, Museum of Aviation. 478-926-6870. 7-8 – COLUMBUS – Victorian Christmas, National Civil War Naval Museum. 706-327-9798. 8 – DILLARD – A Mountain Christmas, City Hall, 3pm. 706-782-4812. 8 – RICHMOND HILL – Winter Muster at Fort McAlister. 912-727-2339. 8 – THOMASVILLE – Thomasville Singers, 4pm, 229-226-6964. 8 – TOCCOA – Toccoa Symphony Orchestra, GBCC. 706-886-8614. 8-10 – THOMSON – Night in Bethlehem/DriveThru Nativity, 1st Baptist, 7-9pm. 706-599-4252. 9 – BRUNSWICK – Festival of Christmas Brass, St. Mark’s Episcopal, 7pm. 912-267-4210. 9 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Chef’s Demonstration, J. I. Club Hotel, 1:30pm. 912-635-2600.
Holiday Happenings Festival of Trees November 4 – December 8 HARRIS ARTS CENTER
Farm City Week November 22 - 28 22nd 23rd 24th 27th -
ANNIE MOSES BAND AT THE GEM DOWNTOWN STREET FESTIVAL CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING SERVICE, SONG, MEAL & PARK TREE LIGHTING 28th - SANTA ARRIVES & TREE LIGHTING
Candlelight Tour December 7 NEW ECHOTA STATE HISTORIC SITE Calhoun • Gordon County I-75 Exits 312 - 320 800-887-3811 •www.ExploreGordonCounty.com
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10 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Holiday High Tea, J. I. Club Hotel, 3:30pm. 912-635-2600. 10 – THOMASVILLE – Music & Drama Troupe’s Christmas Show, 8pm. 229-558-9470. 12 – BRUNSWICK – A Christmas Carol/ Glynn Acad. Orchestra/Singers, St. Marks’ Episcopal Church, 7pm. 912-267-4210. 12-13 – CALHOUN – Community Chorus, Harris Arts Center. 706-629-2599. 12-13 – THOMASVILLE – Victorian Christmas, 229-228-7977.
V An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “ Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2: 9-14
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
Holiday Fun in Warner Robins The Middle Georgia Model Railroad Club will kick off the holiday season with a large miniature train display set-up at the Museum of Aviation from November 23-December 1. Admission will be free. Visit www.mgmrc.org for details. Many other events are planned for Warner Robins during November and December. The International City Farmer’s Market supporting local growers and locally owned businesses will be held Thursdays in November from 1pm to dusk on the corner of Maple Street and Watson Blvd. The Warner Robins Little Theatre will present Baggage Nov. 1-16. Family Fest at Perkins Field on Nov. 2 will offer games, inflatables, live music, and food. Vet Fest on Nov. 11 will be held at Ardagn Group Field and will feature Blackjack Billy and the Big Rock Show at 3pm. The 56th Annual Christmas Parade will be Dec. 7 at 10am. On that same day children can enjoy Science with Santa at the Museum of Aviation. Children will have fun with math and science, make presents for their family, have a picture taken with Santa, and even make snow. Rigby’s Entertainment Complex will offer veterans and active duty military (with military id) a 50% discount on Veterans Day. Rigby’s is already booking parties for the holidays. This complex offers a full service restaurant and bar, pool tables, go karts, bowling, roller skating, and more. For more information on these and other events as well as hotels and restaurants, visit www.warnerrobinsvisitorscenter.com or phone 888-288-WRGA.
December 13 – BLAIRSVILLE – Jim Willhite Comedy Dinner, Copperhead Lodge, 7pm. 877-745-5789. 13 – CHATSWORTH – Cherokee Christmas by Candlelight, 5-9pm. 706-695-2598. 13-14 – SAVANNAH – Holiday Sing-Along, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, 7:30pm. 912232-6002. 14 – ADELE – Christmas at Reed Bingham State Park, 6-8pm. 229-896-3551. 14 – AUGUSTA – Choral Society, St. Paul’s Church. 706-826-4713. 14 – CARTERSVILLE – Hometown Christmas, Downtown, 10am-3pm. 770-607-3480. 14 – CONYERS – Play of Herod Concert, Monastery of the Holy Spirit. 800-Conyers. 14 – DOUGLAS – Santa Stroll, 1:30-5:30pm. 912-383-0277. 14 – DOUGLAS/NICHOLLS – Christmas on the Pond, Gen. Coffee St. Pk., 6-8pm. 912-384-7082. 14 – FOLKSTON – Christmas on Chesser Island, Okefenokee Nat’l. Refuge. 912-882-8111. 14 – MIDWAY – Colonial Christmas, Fort Morris. 912-884-5999. 14 – NACOOCHEE – Village Christmas, Habersham Winery. 706-878-9463 or 800-392-8279. 14 – PLAINS – Candlelight Tour of Jimmy Carter Boyhood Home, 6:30-8pm. 229-824-4104. 14 – PORT WENTWORTH – Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival, 11am-11pm. 912-965-1999. 14 – ST. MARYS – Christmas at Crooked River State Park, 3-6pm. 912-882-5256. 14 – TOCCOA – Christmas at Traveler’s Rest, 7pm. 706-244-8951. 14 – WASHINGTON – Living History Performers, Robert Toombs House. 706-678-2226. 14-15 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Pier Village
Holiday Market, Postell Park. 912-267-7822. 14, 21 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Holiday Open House at Café Rive Gauche, Left Bank Art Gallery, 11am-1pm. 912-638-3017. 16 – BRUNSWICK – Coastal Symphony of Georgia, Glynn Acad. Aud., 8pm. 912-265-4032.
49th Annual March 1-31, 2014
Saint Patrick’s FESTIVAL
DublinLaurens County
Super Saturday March 22
‘Tis a Wee Bit of Ireland in Georgia 478-272-5546
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St. Patrick’s Festival in Dublin in March Everything is turning green in Dublin! The Order of Shillelagh and the Order of the Blarney Stone will present the 49th Annual St. Patrick’s Festival of Dublin-Laurens County March 1-31, 2014. With almost 50 different events, this monthlong, family-friendly festival will have something for everyone. Local favorites will include pageants, Leprechaun contests, a pancake supper, and a library book sale. Visitors will enjoy Super Saturday, March 22, 2014, which will feature the Leprechaun Road Races, St. Patrick’s Parade, St. Patrick’s Arts and Crafts Fair (newly located in the Downtown BiCentennial Park), and much more. A barbecue cook-off, tennis tournament, golf tournaments, and the Century Bike Ride will also be featured events of the festival. Everyone will be looking skyward on the weekend of March 14-16 as the Balloon Fest will fill the skies over Laurens County with hot air balloons. For more festival information, visit www.dublinstpatricks.com or phone 478-272-5546. Located on I-16E in middle Georgia, Dublin is a quick drive from most locations around the state. Lodging includes hotels, motels, and bed & breakfast inns. Visitors will enjoy visiting historic Downtown Dublin’s unique restaurants.
December 19 – BAINBRIDGE – Christmas on the Square, 5-7pm. 229-243-8555. 19 – ST. MARYS – Live Nativity, Downtown, 5:30-8pm. 912-882-8111. 19-24 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Christmas Bagpiper, 4pm. 912-635-2600. 20 – SAVANNAH – Luminary Lights with Santa, Skidway Island, 6-8pm. 912-598-2300. 27 – ALBANY – Nights@dtown@Art Park on Pine, 8-11:45pm. 866-750-0840. 27 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Sunday Dinner Dance, J. I. Club Hotel, 6pm. 912-635-2600.
Events in Fort Valley Festival of Lights
November 30-January 5
31 – JEKYLL ISLAND – New Year’s Eve After Dinner Party, Morgan Ctr., 8pm-2am. 912-635-2600. 31 – PERRY – Buzzard Drop, Downtown. 478-988-2757. 31 – SAVANNAH – City Market New Year’s Eve Celebration. 912-232-4903. New Year’s Eve on the River. 912-234-0295.
March 1-31 – DUBLIN – 49th Annual St. Patrick’s Festival of Dublin-Laurens County. 478-2725546. 14-16 – DUBLIN – Hot Air Balloon Fest. 478-272-5546. 22 – DUBLIN – Super Saturday for St. Patrick’s Festival. 478-272-5546. 28-29 – DOUGLAS – Bikes, Blues, & BBQ Festival, Municipal Airport. 912-383-0277.
A Large Outdoor Municipal Display of over One Million Lights!
Mayor’s Christmas Party December 5, 7pm Austin Theatre
Christmas Parade December 7, 5pm
Holiday Market Arts & Crafts Fair December 7, 9am-3pm
Events in Byron Gingerbread Market
November 16, 9am-2pm
Holiday Art Mart
Nov. 29-Dec. 21, Thurs., Fri., Sat.
Christmas Parade
December 7, 1pm 478-825-3733 •478-956-2409 www.peachchamber.com
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GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
Garden and Nature Events Camellia Season is in Bloom at Massee Lane Gardens Massee Lane Gardens will host the Festival of Camellias with special events every day in February, the peak blooming month. Thousands of camellia blossoms in every color, form, and size will make a walk down the brick pathways an astonishing experience. Camellias are often called the winter rose because the bloom season begins in October and continues throughout the coolest months until late Spring. Massee Lane Gardens kicks off camellia season with free admission on the first day of February, featuring children’s activities, arts, crafts, jewelry, and food. Visit www.americancamellias.org to see a full schedule of workshops on gardening with azaleas and camellias, the history of the Boehm porcelain collections, photographing and painting camellias, boxed luncheons, guided tours, and live plant sales. Massee Lane features a collection of gardens, two galleries showcasing a diverse collection of Boehm porcelains, and a gift shop. Massee Lane is open daily in February from 10-4:30; during the remainder of the year it is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10-4:30 and Sundays from 1-4:30. The gardens and galleries are handicapaccessible, and two wheelchairs may be checked out in the gift shop. Call 478-967-2358 or 877422-6355 for more information or to schedule a tour or workshop. Massee Lane Gardens is located 5.5 miles south of Fort Valley on Georgia Highway 49.
November 1-March 31 – Camellia Days at Massee Lane Gardens, Fort Valley. 2 – 101st Stilesboro Academy Chrysanthemum Show, Cartersville. 770-382-6032. 2 – Harvest in Oxbow Meadows, Columbus. 2 – Trough Gardens, Hills & Dales Estates, 10am. 2, 23 – Make Your Own Basket, Smithgall Woods. 5 – Salves, Lotion, & Lip Balms, State Botanical Garden, 6-8pm. 6 – Founder’s Day at Callaway Gardens. Free admission. 7 – Lunch & Learn / Native Plants in Coastal Landscapes, Ashantilly Center. 9 – Wild Food Walk & Nature’s Roots & Shoots, Atlanta Botanical Garden. 9 – Fall Festival, State Botanical Garden. 9 – Flavors of Fall, Hills & Dales Estate, 10am. 9-10 – Middle Georgia Camellia Society Show, Muncipal Complex, Byron. 478-825-2559. 12 – Landscape Basics, Atl. Botanical Gdn. 15 – Teas by Hand, White Hills Farm, Dearing. 706-597-1000. 16 – Boughs & Berries (Holiday Cards), Atlanta Botanical Garden, 10am. 16 – Ho-Ho-Holiday Gourds, Steffen Thomas Museum, Madison. 706-342-7557. 22 – Making Rustic Breads, White Hills Farm, Dearing. 706-597-1000. 23 – Harvest Festival, Oakland Island. 23 – Holiday Wreath Workshop, Columbus Botanical Garden, 10am.
December 3 – Greenery Wreaths, State Botanical Garden, 5:30pm. 7 – Fresh Greenery Christmas Workshop, Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, 10am.
7 – Back to Nature Holiday Market & Festival, Chattahoochee Nature Center. 7 – Reindog Parade, Atlanta Botanical Garden, 11am-1pm. 7 – Camellia & Garden Club Show, 1st UMC, Valdosta. 229-560-5558. 7 – Christmas Wreaths, Hills & Dales Estate. 8-10 – Holiday Open House at Ashantilly. 10 – Holiday Treats for All, State Botanical Garden, 6-8pm. 14 – Christmas Topiary, 10am. Children’s Christmas Celebration, 9:30am-1pm. Hills & Dales Estate. 15 – Reindeer Day, Chattahoochee Nature Center, 1-4pm.
February Festival of Camellias with special events every day, Massee Lane.
Garden & Nature Centers in Georgia • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Ashantilly Center, Darien . . . . . . . .912-437-4473 Atlanta Botanical Garden . . . . . . . .404-876-5859 Bamboo/Coastal Gdns., Savannah .912-921-5460 Barrington Hall, Roswell . . . . . . . . .770-640-3855 Birdsong Nature Ctr., Thomasville .800-953-bird Callaway Gardens, Pine Mt. . . . . . .800-Callaway Chattahoochee Nat. Ctr., Roswell .770-992-2055 Columbus Botanical Garden . . . . .706-327-8400 Dunwoody Nature Center . . . . . . .770-394-3322 Elachee Nature Ctr., Gainesville . .770-535-1976 Flint RiverQuarium, Albany . . . . . .229-639-2650 Ga. Mt. Research Ctr., Blairsville . .706-745-2655 GSU Botanical Gdn., Statesboro . .912-871-1149 Hills & Dales Estate, LaGrange . . .706-882-3242 Massee Lane, Fort Valley . . . . . . . . .478-967-2358 Oakland Island, Savannah . . . . . . . .912-898-3980 Oxbow Meadows, Columbus . . . . .706-687-4090 Phinizy Swamp, Augusta . . . . . . . . .706-878-3087 Smithgall Woods, Helen . . . . . . . . .706-878-3087 State Botanical Garden, Athens . . .706-542-1244 Tybee Island Marine Center . . . . . .912-786-5917
November / December 2013 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Long-Running Holiday Events Nov. and Dec.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holidays Along the Divine 9, Alpharetta/Roswell. 770-640-3253 Nov. 1-Dec. 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christmas in Roswell. 770-640-3253 Nov. 4-Dec. 8 . . . . Festival of Trees & Holiday Market, Harris Arts Center, Calhoun. 706-629-2599 Nov. 9-Jan. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A Stone Mountain Christmas, Stone Mountain Park. 770-498-5690 Nov. 11-Dec. 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Images of Christmas, Smith Plantation, Roswell. 770-641-3978 Nov. 14-Dec. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . Festival of Trees, Macon Museum of Arts & Sciences. 478-477-3232 Nov. 15-Dec. 8. . . . Designer Showhouse & Marketplace, 58 Blackland Rd., Atlanta. 404-252-6670 Nov. 15-Dec. 22 . . . . Extended Shopping Hours (Fri. & Sat.), Warm Springs Village. 800-337-1927 Nov. 15-Dec. 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Magical Nights of Lights, Lake Lanier Islands. 800-840-5253 Nov. 16-Dec. 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fantasy in Lights, Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain. 800-225-5292 Nov. 16-Dec. 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Best Loved Stories of 1800’s, Bulloch Hall, Roswell. 770-992-1731 Nov. 16-Jan. 4 . . . . . . . . . . Garden Lights, Holiday Lights, Atlanta Botanical Garden. 404-876-5859 Nov. 20-Dec. 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lights of the South, Grovetown. 706-825-6441 Nov. 21-Jan. 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tybee Island for the Holidays. 877-savannah Nov. 21-Jan. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Global Winter Wonderland, Turner Field, Atlanta. 510-962-8586 Nov. 22-Dec. 21. . . . . . . . . . . Copper Basin Christmas Village, McCaysville, 5:30pm. 800-899-6867 Nov. 22-Jan. 4 . Enchanted Garden of Lights, Rock City Gardens, Lookout Mountain. 800-854-0675 Nov. 22-Jan. 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gift of Lights, Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton. 770-423-1330 Nov. 23, 30, Dec. 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Santa Train Rides, St. Marys. 912-200-5235 Nov. 23-Dec. 23 . Antebellum Christmas at Old Governor’s Mansion, Milledgeville. 478-445-4545 Nov. 23-Dec. 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . Gingerbread Village, Westin Savannah Harbor Resort. 912-201-2201 Nov. 23-Jan. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday in Lights, Atlanta Centennial Olympic Park. 404-223-4412 Nov. 23-Jan. 10 . . . . . Holiday Show & Sale, B. R. Mountains Arts Assn., Blue Ridge. 706-632-2144 Nov. 25-Feb. 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park. 770-498-5690 Nov. 27-Dec. 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Festival of Trees, Unicoi State Park, Helen. 800-573-9659 Nov. 28-Jan. 1. . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday Light Spectacular, City Park, Cornelia, 7-11pm. 706-778-4654 Nov. 29-Dec. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christkindlemarkt, Helen. 706-878-1908 Nov. 29-Dec. 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday Art Mart, Peach Shops at Byron. 478-956-2409 Nov. 29-Dec. 21 . . . . . . . . Blue Ridge Scenic Railway to Santa’s Village, McCaysville. 877-413-8724 Nov. 29-Dec. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Old-Fashioned Christmas, Dahlonega. 706-864-3513 Nov. 29-Dec. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blue Ridge Scenic Railway/Santa Express. 877-413-8724 Nov. 29-Dec. 29 . . . . . . . . . Lights at the Lake, Floyd St. Pk., Summerville, Weekends. 706-857-0826 Nov. 29-Jan. 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Festival of Lights, Westin Savannah Harbor Resort. 912-201-2000 Nov. 30-Dec. 16 . . . . . . . Festival of Trees & Lights, Clayton Co. Int’l. Pk., Jonesboro. 770-477-3766 Nov. 30-Dec. 29 . . . . . . . . Tour of Lights, Seminole St. Pk., Donalsonville, Thurs.-Sun. 229-861-3137 Nov. 30-Jan. 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Festival of Lights, Downtown Fort Valley. 478-825-3733 Dec. 6-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruby Red Christmas, Ruby Falls, Chattanooga, TN, Fri./Sat. 423-821-2544 Dec. 1-Jan. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holidays in History, Jekyll Island. 877-4 j e ky l l Dec. 1-22 . . . . . . . . Country Christmas in Lights, The Rock Ranch, closed Mondays. 706-647-6374 Dec. 1-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Georgia’s Amazing Christmas, Lafayette. 706-639-1500 Dec. 2-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Festival of Trees, Jasper Library. 706-692-1164 Dec. 6-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christmas at Callanwolde, Atlanta. 404-872-5338 Dec. 7, 8, 16, 17 . . . . . . . . Dinner with Santa, Enchanted Garden of Lights, Rock City. 800-845-0675 Dec. 7, 14, 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kinderfest, Helen. 706-878-1908 Dec. 7-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Festival of Lights, Chehaw, Albany, Thurs., Fri., Sat. 229-430-5275 Dec. 13-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christmas in Cornelia, Community House, Fri. & Sat. 706-778-8585 Dec. 13-25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nights of Lights, Guido Gardens, Metter. 912-685-2222
The next issue of the Guide to Georgia will be the Spring Issue which will include March, April, and May events. To advertise in this issue, contact Patty Proctor at
706-846-2620 or e-mail guidetogeorgia@windstream.net The deadline for information in the Spring Issue will be February 1, 2014 30
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / November / December 2013
The Party is Just Beginning
in Sandy Springs!
Count Down to 2014! Ring in the New Year with hotel specials and packages in Sandy Springs, and Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism will deliver a party kit and recovery basket to your hotel. Submit your name, confirmation number and check in date at www.VisitSandySprings.org/NYE by December 22, 2013 to get your Celebration Kit! Hotel reservation must be made for December 30 or December 31 to qualify for a Celebration Kit. @Sandy Springs_HT
Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism - CVB and Welcome Center