Guide to Georgia March 2011

GGEORGIA uide To

Events Attractions Fairs & Festivals

Spring 2011

Bold, Beautiful Blue Ridge

GGEORGIA uide To

Volume 51 Spring

Number 1 March /April/May 2011

CONTENTS Metro Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7

March 11-13 April 8-10 May 13-15 June 10-12

Sporting Events . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-12 Memorial Day Events . . . . . . . . . .13 Arts in the Park, Blue Ridge . . . . .13 Theatre & Music . . . . . . . . . . .14-16 Entertainment Venues . . . . . .17-19 Spring Events in Georgia . . . . .20-34 Garden & Nature . . . . . . . . . .35-38

ON THE COVER he Lake”©, shown on the cover, is an original oil painting by Anthony A. Abreu. This work and his other paintings can be seen at his Abreu Fine Art Gallery in historic, downtown Blue Ridge or at the Dream Givers Art Gallery in Toccoa or by visiting his website at www.abreufineartgallery.com. For more information, e-mail fineart@anthonyabreu.com or phone 706946-3278. Not only is the area around Blue Ridge featured on the front cover, but an article on page 13 tells about the Arts in the Park Festival scheduled for May 28-29.

“T

GUIDE

TO

GEORGIA

801 Nebula Rd., Manchester, GA 31816 Phone 706-846-2620, Fax 706-846-2620 E-mail guidetogeorgia@windstream.net Patty Proctor . . . . . . . . .Publisher/Editor Hayley Yawn . . . . . .Publisher’s Assistant Debi Richardson . . . . . . . .Graphic 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.

not the outlook but the It’suplook that counts.

j

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith . . ..

HEBREWS 12:2a GOD’S LITTLE INSTRUCTION BOOK Honor Books, Inc., Tulsa, OK

Historic Warm Springs Village presents Spring Fling &

Roosevelt Days!

Fun For Everyone!

No Admission Fee! Saturday & Sunday

April 8 & 9 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M.

Featuring shopping, entertainment, & food.

Warm Springs, Georgia.

An Old Fashioned Indulgence. www.warmspringsga.ws www.visitmeriwether.com 1-800-FDR-1927 • 1-706-655-3322

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

3

METRO ATLANTA Sandy Springs – A Diverse Place to Visit Sandy Springs, only 15 miles north of Atlanta, offers not only metropolitan amenities but also many outdoor retreats and one-of-a-kind venues.

ArtSSpring in Sandy Springs will be a month-long celebration of the arts, from April 15 - May 15, featuring art, music, drama, poetry, gardens, dining, dancing, and more. This city-wide celebration will highlight the talents and creative skills of residents and will be held in the city’s galleries, schools, theatres, and parks. www.artsandysprings.org.

The U.S.A CRITS Finals and the Global BMW Sandy Springs Cycling Challenge will be May 8. The Metric Century Ride will begin at 9 a.m., the CRITS Series races at 9:30 a.m., and the awards presentation and concert at 6 p.m. For information, visit www.sandyspringschallenge.org.

Visitors can enjoy a special CRITS rate at one of the Sandy Springs hotels. Call Will Carlson, S.S. Hospitality & Tourism, at 770-206-1445.

Act 3 Productions will present, on March 3-6 and 11-13, All ShookUp, a play based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night and inspired by the music of Elvis Presley. 770-241-1905 or www.act3productions.org.

Exhibits at Heritage Sandy Springs through June 2011 are A Land Nearby featuring photographs of Georgia’s Barrier Islands and The Getaway exploring different ways the people of Sandy Springs have made a “getaway” and places they’ve visited. 404-851-9111. Also of interest is the Anne Frank Exhibit at the Parkside Shopping Center.

For information, visit www.visitsandy springs.org or phone 866-511-7742. The Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism 1-6 – Buckhead Restaurant Week. 404Welcome Center is located in the Parkside 262-3165.

Shopping Center at 5920 Roswell Road, 4 – Outdoor Living Extravaganza, Atlanta Suite A-118.

History Center. 404-814-4000.

4-25 – Martinis & IMAX, Fridays, 5:30-10 p.m.

404-929-6300.

5-20 – Phoenix Flies – Citywide Celebration of Living Landmarks. 404-688-3353.

11-13 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-4112 or 404-361-2000.

12 – 129th St. Patrick’s Day Parade, downtown. 678-754-5834.

12 – Melinda Doolittle, Ferst Center for the Arts, 404-894-9600.

12-20 – Great American Cover-Up Quilt Show, Bulloch Hall, Roswell. 770-992-1731. & 12-27 – Roswell Woman’s Club Showcase Saturday, 10-6 & Home Tour, Providence Brownstones. 770-715-2700.

13 – Michael O’Neal Singers, Roswell UMC, Sunday, 12-5 3 p.m. 770-594-7974.

13 – Guided Tour of Estate, Callanwolde.

• Arts & Crafts Festival 404-872-5338. with over 175 booths 17 – Lunchtime, Several Dancers Core Studio, • Food Decatur. Free lunch/first 40. 404-373-4154.

• Live Entertainment 18 – Friday Jazz with Chris Crenshaw, High Museum of Art, 5-10 p.m. 404-733-high.

• Children’s Area 20 – Bridal Alliance Wedding Show, Brawner Hall. 800-451-3480. and the 26 – Culture Shock – Dans le Moment, High Museum, 8-12 p.m. 404-733-5000.

26 – Alpharetta Children’s Festival, Commun5K Run/Walk begins 8 a.m., Saturday ity Center Lawn, 11 a.m. 678-297-6165.

770-434-6600 28-April 3 – Inman Park Restaurant Week. www.smyrnacity.com 404-522-4600.

4 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

March

The City of

Smyrna

Spring Jonquil Festival

April 30 May1

Jonquil City Jog April 30th

METRO ATLANTA Southeast Railway Museum in Duluth “Georgia’s Official Transportation History Museum” has over 90 pieces of retired railway rolling stock: trains from the 1920’s and 1950’s including vintage steam and diesel locomotives, passenger and private cars, WWII troop kitchen, railway post office car, wooden freight cars, baggage cars, cabooses, and maintenance of way equipment. The museum is home to MARTA’s historic bus fleet and busses from many of the predecessor systems to MARTA. The railway museum is open Fridays and Saturdays 10-5 in March and Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 10-5 in April and May. With ad on page 7 one free train ride with each paid admission. The Museum is located at 3595 Peachtree Rd. For information, phone 7701-9, 16, 23, 30 – Lasershow Spectacular, 476-2013 or visit www.srmduluth.org.

Stone Mountain Park, 8:30 p.m. 770-498-5690.

A photo exhibit in March and April will 1-29 – Martinis & IMAX, Fridays, 5:30-10 feature photos of the museum. Caboose p.m. 404-929-6300.

Days on April 2-3 will offer temporary 2-3 – Caboose Days, S.E. Railway Museum, caboose tattoos, a caboose hunt, food, and a Duluth. 770-476-2013. kids’ craft corner. National Train Day on May 7 2-3 – Antique & Collectible Arms Show, will mark 142 years of coast to coast service Cobb Civic Center. 770-443-6716. by rail. Armed Forces Day will be May 21; and 5-28 – Music at Noon, Centennial Olympic active and retired military with IDs will have Park, Tues. & Thurs., 12-1 p.m. 404-223-4412. free admission. A Locomotive Celebration on 6-10 – Atlanta Film Festival, Landmark June 4-5 will include temporary locomotive Midtown Art Cinema. 404-872-5796. tattoos, locomotive hunt, refreshments, kids’ 6-27 – Wednesday WindDown, Centennial craft corner, and locomotive slide show Olympic Park, 5:30-8 p.m. 404-223-4412. and tours.

7-28 – Jazz Nights at Scottish Rite, Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. 404-371-8262.

8-10 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-4112 or 404-361-2000.

14-17 – Lemonade Days, Brook Run Park, Dunwoody. 678-682-9098.

15-17 – Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Piedmont Park. 404-875-7275.

15-17 – Sweetwater 420 Festival, Candler Park. 404-521-6600.

16-17 – Alpharetta Arts Streetfest, Milton Avenue. 678-297-6078.

16-May 8 – Atlanta Symphony Decorator Show House, W. Wesley Rd. 404-733-4864.

16-30 – Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Sat. & Sun. 770-964-8575.

17-May 17 – ArtSSpring in Sandy Springs, various venues. 866-511-7742.

21 – Alive After Five Street Party, Roswell Historic District. 770-640-3253.

T.W. BRISCOE PARK 23 – Tea with Beatrix Potter, Barrington Sat. Snellville Days Parade 10 a.m.

Hall, Smyrna, 1-3 p.m. 770-640-3855.

FREE Concert - Restless Heart 6:30 p.m.

28-May 1 – Georgia Frontier Days, Stone & COVER GIRL Queen Collection Winner Amber Mason Mountain Park. 770-498-5690.

29-May 1 – Druid Hills Home & Garden Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. & Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tour & Artist Market. 404-525-tour.

Festival – FREE ADMISSION 30-May 1 – Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival.

•Over 200 Arts & Crafts Vendors •Kids’ Area 770-434-6600.

•Continuous Live Entertainment on Two Stages 30-May 1 – Inman Park Festival & Tour of •Dog & Disc Championships •Historical Displays Homes. 404-577-4212.

770-985-3535 30-May 1 – Spring Pottery Sale, Callanwww.snellvilledays.com www.snellville.org wolde, 404-872-5338.

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 5

April

May 7 & 8

METRO ATLANTA Snellville Days Festival The City of Snellville will host its 38th annual Snellville Days Festival on May 7-8 at Briscoe Park. The theme this year will be “Bringing Families Together.” Festival hours will be Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Admission will be free.

The festival will kick off Saturday at 10 a.m. with a parade beginning at the Wisteria Village Shopping Center and ending on Clower Street. Grand Marshals will be the S. E. Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry. The special guest will be performer Amber Mason, a COVER GIRL Queen Collection Winner.

Snellville Days will feature a weekend full of free fun, including more than 200 craft and food vendors, a children’s area with games and small rides, dog & disc championships, two stages of live entertainment, a Snellville Historical Society display, and three performances each day of the Skin & Bones & Co. comedy show. A free concert on Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. will feature the country group Restless Heart with an opening act by Amber Mason, the COVER GIRL Queen Collection Winner. Take a blanket or lawn chair and even a picnic if you wish.

For information, phone 770-985-3535 or visit www.snellvilledays.com.

Scott Antique Market in Atlanta Scott Antique Market in Atlanta, known as the world’s largest monthly indoor antique show, has over 3300 booths overflowing from two buildings. Located in the Atlanta Expo Center which encompasses 366,000 square feet, Scott Antique Market offers Victorian and primitive furniture, vintage hardware, rare art and prints, vintage clothing, nostalgic photographs, antique Christmas decorations, vintage musical instruments, glassware, pottery, porcelain, clocks, tools, campaign memorabilia, books, and more.

Always held the second weekend of every month, the next shows will be March 11-13, April 8-10, May 13-15, and June 10-12. Hours are Fri. & Sat. 9-6 and Sun. 10-4. Admission is $5 for the weekend. The show has a variety of food and free parking. Located in the Atlanta Expo Center, which straddles I-285 at Exit 55. For more information, phone 740-569-4112 (office) or 404-361-2000 (show) or visit www.scottantiquemarket.com.

May 1 – Fiesta Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park.

404-223-4412.

1 – Garden Hood Good Food Festival, Grant Park. 404-880-9848.

1-17 – ArtSSpring in Sandy Springs, various venues. 866-511-7742.

1-June 5 – Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Sat. & Sun. 770-964-8575.

3-31 – Music at Noon, Centennial Olympic Park, Tues. & Thurs., 12-1 p.m. 404-223-4412.

4-25 – Wednesday WindDown, Centennial Olympic Park, 5:30-8 p.m. 404-223-4412.

4-25 – Blue Sky Concerts, Community Bandstand, Decatur, Wed., 12-1 p.m. 404-371-8262.

5 – Lunchtime, Several Dancers Core Studio, Decatur. Free lunch/first 40. 404-373-4154.

6-7 – Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival, Cobb Co. CVB. 404-694-2208.

6-8 – Sweet Auburn Springfest. 404-681-4667.

6-21 – Bard in the Yard’s Taming of the Shrew, Barrington Hall, Roswell, Fri. & Sat. 770-640-3855.

6-27 – Martinis & IMAX, Fridays, 5:30-10

6

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

METRO ATLANTA Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival The Spring Jonquil Festival will be held April 30-May 1 in downtown Smyrna on the Village Green next to Market Village and will feature over 175 handmade arts and crafts booths, festival foods, and children’s activities.

There will be live music and puppet shows as well as local entertainment on the stage in front of the library.

There will be a variety of fine arts in the Featured Artists’ Market. Other artisans from all over the S.E. will be selling handmade crafts, clothing, furniture, jewelry, and more. Vendors will be offering an assortment of delicious festival foods. There will be a children’s area with inflatables, puppets, and p.m. 404-929-6300. other activities. Entertainment in the food court area throughout the event will feature acoustic music and a few other surprises.

7 – National Train Day, S. E. Railway The Jonquil Jog, a 5K Run/Walk, will be Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013.

Saturday at 8 a.m. at City Hall. There will be a 7-8 – Snellville Days, Briscoe Park. 770-985Tot Trot, Fun Run, and Fitness Walk.

3535.

Registration will be at 7 a.m. Register now at 7-8 – Dunwoody Arts Festival, Dunwoody www.active.com.

Village. 678-244-9800.

Festival hours will be Saturday 10-6 and 7-8 – Colors Festival, Roswell. 770-640-3253.

Sunday noon-5. Admission will be free. Take 7-8 – May-retta Daze Arts & Crafts Festival, I-75 to Exit 260; go west 3 miles; turn left onto Glover Park. 800-451-3480.

Atlanta Road; festival will be one mile on 7, 14, 21, 28-31 – Lasershow Spectacular, right. For information, call 770-434-6600 or Stone Mountain Park, 9:30 p.m. 770-498-5690. visit www.SmyrnaCity.com.

7-28 – Concerts on Decatur Square, Saturdays, 7-9:30 p.m. 404-371-8262.

8 – Mother’s Day Open House, Barrington & Bulloch Halls, Smith Plantation, Roswell. 770-640-3253.

12 – Taste of Alpharetta, Wills Park, 5-10 p.m. 678-297-6000.

13 – Michael O’Neal Singers, Roswell UMC, 8 p.m. 770-594-7974.

13-15 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-4112 or 404-361-2000.

14-15 – Kirkwood Spring Fling & Tour of Homes, Branham Park. 404-343-3916.

Knoxville, Crawford County 15 – Georgia Kite Festival, Centennial Olympic Pottery Exhibit •Sales •Auction •Car Show Park. 404-223-4412.

15 – Third Sundae, Barrington Hall, Roswell.

Handcraft Sales •Demonstrations 770-640-3855.

Antique Tractors •Lawn Mower Races 19 – Alive After Five Street Party, Roswell Historic District. 770-640-3253.

Early Events May 19 & 20 19-21 – Atlanta Jewish Music Festival. for the love of mud . . .

404-521-6600.

21-22 – Buckhead Arts & Crafts Festival, www.gajugfest.com •478-836-3825 Chastain Park Amphitheater. 404-845-0793.

20 miles west of Macon 22 – Atlanta Downtown Fest. 404-521-6600.

May

Georgia JugFest May 21

SOUTHEASTERN RAILWAY MUSEUM Georgia’s Official Transportation History Museum •Exhibit Hall & Gift Shop • Birthday Parties •Train Ride in Full-Size Cabooses •Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. – Fri. & Sat. in March; Thurs., Fri. & Sat. in April-May; Wed.-Sat. in June-Aug.; and Thurs.-Sat. Sept.-Dec.

Present This Ad and Receive One Free Admission (with the purchase of an admission of equal or greater value)

3595 Peachtree Road • Duluth • www.srmduluth.org • 770-476-2013 March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

7

Sporting Events War Days in Old Clinton War Days at Old Clinton will be held April 30-May 1 when re-enactors recreate the Battles of Sunshine Church and Griswoldville during Sherman’s 1864 March to the Sea. Tents will spring up on grassy fields, blue and gray soldiers from grizzled veterans to beardless recruits will gather, and the rattle of musketry and the thunder of cannons will shake windows in old homes.

The McCarthy-Pope House, circa 1809, the oldest house in Clinton, will be open for tour and furnished in the war era by the Ladies of the Confederac. Miss Annie’s Store will display war relics and weapons, a prize-winning exhibit of Griswold pistol parts, a finished Griswold pistol, a Burnside carbine, and authentic Confederate currency. The Old Clinton Apr. 4-10 . . . . . . . . . . Masters Golf Tournament Historic District, listed in the National Register Augusta National Golf Club, 800-726-0243 of Historic Places, offers self-guided walking Apr. 15 . . . . . . . . . . Brig. Gen. Robt. L. Scott, Jr. tours.

Mem. Golf Scramble, Macon, 478-923-6600 Saturday will conclude at 8:05 p.m. with the 16th Ga., Co. G, Jackson Rifles, CSA conducting a memorial service in the Old Clinton Cemetery to honor Clinton’s Mar. 26 .Trail Horse Poker Ride/ScavengerHunt Confederate dead.

Stephens St. Pk., Crawfordville, 770-466-4430 Gates will open at 9 a.m. Admission will be Apr. 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Atlanta Steeplechase $5/adults; $3/students 18 and under; free/kids Kingston Downs, 404-237-7436 under 6. The Memorial Service will be free.

GEORGIA INT’L HORSE PARK Clinton is located 12 miles NE of Macon, 1½ Conyers, 888-860-4224, www.conyersga.com miles SE of Gray, one block west off US 129.

Mar. 5-6 . . . . . . . . . . .3 Horseman Dressage Show For information, phone 478-986-6383 or 478Mar. 5-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . .S.E. Hunter/Jumper Show 986-1123.

Mar. 23-27 . . . . . . . . . . . .Atlanta Spring Classic I Mar. 30-Apr. 3 . . . . . . . . .Atlanta Spring Classic II Apr. 15-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .GQHA Pro Am Apr. 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Greyfest Apr. 30-May 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Farm Dressage May 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Derby Day Tea May 28-29 . . . . .Atlanta Black Invitational Rodeo May 28-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .S.E. Hunter/Jumper

GOLF

EQUESTRIAN SHOWS

8

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Sporting Events Battle of Resaca Reenactment in Gordon County Smell the powder, see the smoke, and hear the thunder of battle at the 147th Anniversary of the Battle of Resaca on May 21-22. Relive the first major Battle of the Atlanta Campaign, a reenactment held on 600 acres of the original 1864 battlefield. Reenactment battles will take place Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Visit 1864 period Confederate and Federal military camps complete with infantry, artillery, and cavalry. Stop by the period civilian refugee camp, shop Sutler Row for period wares and a yard sale offering used reenactment clothing, and listen to period music.

There will be a calvary competition, period dance with music by the 8th Regimental Band, living history exhibits, a ladies’ tea with guest speaker, food and beverages for sale, a Memorial Service at the Resaca Confederate Cemetery on Saturday at 10 a.m., and a nonMar. 12 . . Dirty Spokes Duathlon (run-bike-run) denominational church service on Sunday at Fort Yargo St. Pk., Winder, 770-867-3489 10 a.m. at the Social Tent.

Mar. 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shrimpbox Derby Resaca is 70 miles north of Atlanta. Take Darien, 10 a.m., 912-437-6684 I-75 to exit 320; go east on US 41; turn left; Apr. 2. . . Oldtimers’ Hockey Challenge/Hockey go north 3 miles; turn right on Chitwood Heroes, Columbus Civic Ctr., 706-494-8330 Road. Admission is $5/adults and $2/children Apr. 2 . . . Savannah Derby Devils Roller Derby 12 & under. For more information, visit Civic Center, 800-351-7469 www.georgia division.org or phone 800-887Apr. 9. . . . . . . . Blue Ridge Mt. Adventure Race 3811 or 706-625-3200. For information on (run, paddle, bike), 706-632-5680 lodging, visit www.exploregordoncounty.com.

Apr. 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cartersville Duathlon (run, bike), 770-917-0924 Apr. 29-30. . . . . . . Savannah River Classic Bass Fishing Tournament, 912-965-1999 Mar. 19. . . . . . . . TNA Wrestling Live, Savannah Apr. 30. . . . Xterra Off-Road Triathlon (run-bikeCivic Ctr., 800-351-7469 swim), Ft. Yargo St. Pk., Winder, 770-867-3489 Mar. 31-Apr. 3 . . . . . . . . . . Wrestlemania XXVII May 15. . . Duathlon (run, bike), Callaway Gardens Georgia Dome, Atlanta, 404-223-9200 800-callaway Apr. 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . WWE Hall of Fame 2011 May 22 . . . . . . . . . Inugural Tri for Life Triathlon Philips Arena, Atlanta, 404-878-3000 Roswell, 770-640-3253 Apr. 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . WWE Monday Night Raw May 27-29 . . Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Philips Arena, Atlanta, 404-878-3000 Tournament, Callaway Gardens, 800-callaway

MISCELLANEOUS

WRESTLING

WAR DAYS

See LIVE WILD HOGS Taken from the swamps of the OCMULGEE RIVER at the Saturday 20th

MAY 7

Annual

RE-ENACTMENT and ENCAMPMENT April 30-May 1 • Old Clinton Arts & Crafts of the Era Suttler’s Row • Demonstrations • Food Self-Guided Tours Available • Guided Tours By Appointment Old Clinton is located 12 miles N.E. of Macon and 11/2 miles S.W. of Gray, just off Hwy. 129

478-986-6383

The Wild Hog Capital of Georgia - ABBEVILLE Admission $2 • LIONS PARK • I-75 Exit 101 30 miles East of Cordele on Hwy. 280 www.hogfestival.com

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

9

Sporting Events Ocmulgee Wild Hog Festival in Abbeville See real wild hogs taken from the Ocmulgee Swamp during the 20th annual Ocmulgee Wild Hog Festival in Abbeville on Saturday, May 7. Among the events will be an exciting Hog-Dog Baying contest and a Children’s pig chase.

Browse through over 100 arts and crafts booths or make your food selection from over 30 food booths. Relax in the shade on the grass and enjoy all kinds of good music and other entertainment including line dancing, clogging, bands, and singing. There will be kiddie rides, ponies, and an Antique Tractor Show. There will also be a Poker Run this year. Gates will open at 9 a.m., and admission will be $2 for all ages. A Wild Hog Waller Dance will be sponsored by the Abbeville Fire/Rescue on Saturday night from Home Schedule 8 p.m. until midnight.

COLUMBUS LIONS Abbeville, the Wild Hog Capital of GA., is Mar. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RICHMOND located 30 miles east of Cordele at the interApr. 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LAFAYETTE section of US 280 and 129. From I-75 take May 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAYETTEVILLE exit 101. Phone 229-467-2144 for information May 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HUNTVILLE on arts & crafts or 229-467-2107 for informa706-653-4460, www.columbuslions.net tion on dog baying. Visit www.hogfestival.com.

ARENA FOOTBALL

RACING ROAD ATLANTA Braselton, 800-849-race, www.roadatlanta.com Mar. 11-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NASA Mar. 18-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SCCA National Apr. 29-May 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . HSR Mitty Speedfest May 6-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Drift Atlanta May 21-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SCCA National Atlanta Dragway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Commerce 770-682-3782, www.atlantadragway.com Atlanta Motor Speedway . . . . . . . . . . Hampton 770-946-4211, atlantamotorspeedway.com Oglethorpe Speedway Park . . . . . . . . . . . Pooler 912-964-8200, ospracing.net 7 478-847-4414, www.silverdollarraceway.com

Come step back in time at at the the Battle of Resaca Reenactment

HIKES & RUNS Mar. 5 . .Sandy Springs, 5K, 10K, 866-511-7742 Mar. 18-19 . .Atlanta, 26M, 13M, 404-223-4000 Mar. 19 . . . . . . .Dublin, 5K, 10K, 478-272-5546 Mar. 19 . . . . . . . . .Fitzgerald, 5K, 800-386-4642 Apr. 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . .Darien, 5K, 912-437-6684 Apr. 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Perry, 5K, 478-987-1234 Apr. 16 . . . . . . .Hawkinsville, 5K, 478-783-1717 Apr. 23 . . . . . . . . . .Reynolds, 5K, 478-847-5301 Apr. 30 . . . . . . . . . . .Smyrna, 5K, 770-434-6600 Apr. 30 . . . . . . . .Vidalia, 5K, 10K, 912-538-tour May 14 . . . . . .Roswell, 5K, 10K, 678-795-0115 June 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gray, 5K, 478-986-5199 June 4 . . . . . . . . .Eatonton, 10K, 706-485-9941 June 11 . . . . . . . .Fort Valley, 5K, 478-420-0072 (See www.atlantatrackclub.org for more races)

BIKING

Mar. 19 . . . . . . . . . . Chain Buster Mt. Bike Race Ga. Int’l. Horse Park, Conyers, 678-758-7206 Mar. 19-21. . . . . . Xterra Dirty Spokes, Ga. Int’l.

Horse Park, Conyers, 770-860-4190 Apr. 1 . . . . . Wheels of Fire Century Cycle Tour Harris County, 706-628-0010 Apr. 9 . . . . . . . . . . . Mayhaw Century Bike Ride Colquitt, 229-758-2400 Apr. 29-30 . . . . . . . . Athens Twilight Criterium 706-207-4607 Apr. 30. . . . . . . . . . . . Bike Race Cohutta 100 & Relive history, see the smoke, Big Frog 65, Blue Ridge, 404-217-0041 May 1 . . . . . Roswell Criterium Pro & Amateur smell the gunpowder and hear Bike Race, Historic District, 770-640-3253 the thunder of battle. Held on May 1 . . . . . . Ga. State Mt. Bike Championship the original 1864 Resaca Ft. Yargo St. Pk., Winder, 770-867-3489 Battlefield. Just an hour north of May 7 . . . . . . . . . . . Dirty Spokes Mt. Bike Race Ft. Yargo St. Pk., Winder, 770-867-3489 Atlanta, off I-75 and Exit 320.

May 8 . . . . . . USA CRITS Finals & Global BMW www.georgiadivision.org 800-887-3811 Sandy Springs Cycling Challenge, 866-511-7742 10 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

May 21–22

•

Sporting Events National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus 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, and a battle simulator theater.

Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. See coupon in ad on page 8. 1002 Victory Drive, Columbus. 706-327-9798. www.portcolumbus.org.

RiverBlast! on March 12-13 will include Union and Confederate sailors and marines and will feature weapons demonstrations, cannon firings, skirmishes, reenactments, and scenes from a sailor’s daily life. RiverBlast will mark the 10th anniversary of Port Columbus, the 50th anniversary of the recovery of the CSS Jackson near Columbus, and the 150th anniversary of the outbreak of the Civil War. Port Columbus will mark the 10th/50th anniversaries on March 11 at 11 Mar. 10-13 . . . . . . . SEC Basketball Tournament a.m. with a program portraying the challenges and FanFare, Georgia Dome, 404-223-9200 faced by the South in building a Navy from the Apr. 22-23. . . . . . . HoopAtlanta 3-on-3 Classic ground up 150 years ago.

Ga. World Congress Ctr., Atlanta, 404-223-4000 Several museums and institutions will HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS present on April 6-10 the Chattahoochee Mar. 8 . . . . . Valdosta PE Complex, 229-242-2600 Valley Civil War 150th Commemoration Mar. 10. . . Columbus Civic Center, 706-494-8330 Symposium which will focus on Soldiers, Mar. 11. . . Brown Arena, Augusta, 706-722-3521 Sailors, Slaves, and Civilians during the war.

Mar. 12 . . . Philips Arena, Atlanta, 404-878-3000 Each member will host one evening of the Mar. 12 . Gwinnett Center, Duluth, 800-224-6422 symposium at their site. The kick-off on April 6 Mar. 28 . . . . . . . Macon Coliseum, 478-743-1074 will be held at Port Columbus and will focus on Mar. 29 . . . Savannah Civic Center, 800-351-7469 the lives and stories of those in the Navies.

BASKETBALL

4 -11, 2011

For more information on the 2011 Festival visit www.worldslargestpeachcobbler.com or phone 478-420-0072 March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

11

Sporting Events BASEBALL Home Schedules ATLANTA BRAVES Apr. 2-3 . . . . . . . . .WHITESOX Apr. 5,7-8 . . . . . . . . . . . .CUBS Apr. 16-18 . . . . . . . .ROCKIES Apr. 20-22 . . . . . . . . .PHILLIES Apr. 30, May 2 . . . . . .ASTROS May 14-16 . . . . . . . .D-BACKS May 17-18 . . . . . . . . . . .METS May 19-20 . . . . . . . . . . .REDS May 28-30 . . . . . . . . .PIRATES May 31 . . . . . . . . . . .PHILLIES 404-577-9100 www.atlantabraves.com

AUGUSTA GREENJACKETS Apr. 15-18 . .WEST VIRGINIA Apr. 19-23 . . . . . .DELMARVA May 5-8 . . . .WEST VIRGINIA May 9-12 . . . . . . . . . . .ROME May 25-28 . . . . .SAVANNAH 706-736-7889 greenjacketsbaseball.com

HOCKEY Home Schedules ATLANTA THRASHERS COLUMBUS COTTONMOUTHS Mar. 1 . . . . . . . . .CANADIENS Mar. 3 . . . . . . . . . .SENATORS Mar. 5 . . . . . . . . . .PANTHERS Mar. 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . .DEVILS Mar. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . .FLYERS Mar. 25 . . . . . . . . . .CANUCKS Mar. 27 . . . . . . . . .SENATORS Apr. 8 . . . . . . . .HURRICANES Apr. 10 . . . . . . . . . .PENGUINS 866-715-1500 www.atlantathrashers.com

Mar. 4 . . . . . . . .COLUMBUS Mar. 5 . . . . . . . .HUNTSVILLE Mar. 11 . . . . . . . .MISSISSIPPI Mar. 12 . . . . . . . .MISSISSIPPI Mar. 18 . . . . . . . .LOUISIANA Mar. 19 . . . . . . . .MISSISSIPPI Mar. 26 . . . . . . . .LOUISIANA 706-571-0086 www.cottonmouths.com

AUGUSTA RIVERHAWKS

Mar. 5-6 . . . . . . . .TRENTON Mar. 15 . . . . . . .CINCINNATI Mar. 18-20 . . . . . . .FLORIDA Mar. 26-27 . . . . . . .READING Apr. 1 . . . . . . . .GREENVILLE 770-497-5100 gwinnettgladiators.com

Mar. 18 . . . . . . . . .KNOXVILLE Mar. 19 . . . . . . . .HUNTSVILLE Mar. 24 . . . . . . . . .KNOXVILLE Mar. 25 . . . . . . . .COLUMBUS 1-877-4AUGTIX www.augustariverhawks.com

BASKETBALL Home Schedule ATLANTA HAWKS Mar. 20 . . . . . . . . . . .DETROIT

ROME BRAVES Apr. 7-10 . . . .HAGERSTOWN Apr. 11-14 . . . . . . .AUGUSTA Apr. 25-29 . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE Apr. 30-May 3 .HAGERSTOWN May 13-16 . . . . .SAVANNAH May 20-23 . . . . . . . .HICKORY May 29-31 . . . . . . .AUGUSTA 706-368-9388 www.romebraves.com

Mar. 2 . . . . . . . . . . .CHICAGO Mar. 4 . . . . .OKLAHOMA CITY Mar. 6 . . . . . . . . . .NEW YORK Mar. 8 . . . . . . . . . .LA LAKERS Mar. 12 . . . . . . . . .PORTLAND Mar. 15 . . . . . . . .MILWAUKEE Mar. 16 . . . . . . . . . . .DENVER Mar. 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . .MIAMI

52nd Annual

Putnam County Dairy Festival Sat.

June 4

2011

Road Races • Parade Arts & Crafts Fair Speakers • BBQ Entertainment • Food Free Ice Cream & Milk Rides & Games

EATONTON, GA Sponsored by the Pilot Club of Eatonton, GA, Inc.

www.pceatonton.org/dairy or e-mail glendar@pceatonton.org

12

GWINNETT GLADIATORS

Mar. 22 . . . . . . . . . .CHICAGO Mar. 26 . . . . . . . .NEW JERSEY Mar. 30 . . . . . . . . .ORLANDO Apr. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . .BOSTON Apr. 5 . . . . . . .SAN ANTONIO Apr. 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . .MIAMI 404-249-6400 www.nba.com/hawks

Ball Ground Heritage Days Festival

C o m e J o i n T h e Fu n !

M MAY AY 14 14& &15 15 DOWNTOWN •Parade (May 14, 10 AM) •Entertainment •Arts and Crafts •Good Food •Children’s Activities •Business Expo (Saturday 11-5) •$1.98 Beauty Contest (Saturday 5:30 p.m.)

•Dancing in the Park (Saturday 7 p.m.)

BALL GROUND, GA www.ballgroundheritagedays.org

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND EVENTS Arts in the Park in Blue Ridge If you’re planning a weekend getaway and are looking for something the whole family will enjoy, head to the North Georgia Mountains and the 35th Annual Arts in the Park Festival on May 28-29. The festival will feature 175+ booths of juried fine art and handmade crafts, artists’ demonstrations, a Southern Appalachian Artist’s Guild Exhibit, an Artist-In-Residence exhibit by Nikki Davidson, a children’s area, great food, and great music.

Some of the finest artists in the Southeast will be exhibiting paintings, photography, jewelry, glass, pottery, woodworking, sculpture, folk art, basketry, and metal work.

The festival will be held under the oaks in the beautiful City Park in historic Downtown Blue Ridge. Hours will be Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission will be $5 with children admitted free.

The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Assn., producer of the festival, boasts 600+ artist members, is one of the largest art galleries in the N. Ga. Mountains, and is housed in the historic Courthouse. Located only 90 minutes north of Atlanta, Blue Ridge offers shops, galleries, restaurants, community theater, Scenic Railway, Swan Drive-In Theater, and national AY forests with outdoor activities.

27-29 – LUMPKIN – Creek Indian Wars of For information, phone 706-632-2144, 1836. 888-733-1850. e-mail blueridgearts@gmail.com, or visit at 27-29 – SAVANNAH – Armed Forces www.blueridgearts.net. For area information, Festival, River Street. 912-234-0295. visit www.blueridgemountains.com or call 27-30 – BLAIRSVILLE – Weekend Events, 706-632-5680.

Lodge at Copperhead. 877-745-5789.

29 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Dinner Dance, J. I. 27-30 – HELEN – Memorial Day Blast, Unicoi Club Hotel, 6 p.m. 912-635-2400.

State Park. 800-573-9659.

30 – COLUMBUS – Memorial Day Commem27-30 – TALLULAH FALLS – Gorge Floor oration, Port Columbus, 10 a.m. 706-327-9798.

Hikes, Tallulah Gorge St. Pk. 706-754-7981.

30 – COLUMBUS – Paver Dedication Cere28 – ATLANTA – 4th Saturday Family Fun Day, mony, Nat’l. Infantry Museum. 706-653-9234.

Centennial Olympic Pk., 12-4 p.m. 404-223-4412.

30 – FAIRMOUNT – Festival & 5K Run, 28 – AUGUSTA – Choral Society, Sacred Heart downtown. 800-887-3811.

Cultural Center, 5 p.m. 706-826-4700.

30 – MIDWDAY – Memorial Day Commem28 – HELEN – Make Your Own Splint Footstool, oration, Fort Morris. 912-884-5999.

Smithgall Woods. 706-878-3087. Craftsmen Demo 30 – ROSWELL – Memorial Day, Faces of War and Evening Concert, Unicoi St Pk., 800-573-9659, Memorial. 770-640-3253. x305; Bavarianfest, Festhalle. 706-878-1908.

30 – SAVANNAH – Weekend Celebration, 28 – RICHMOND HILL – Memorial Day at Westin Harbor Resort. 912-201-2021.

Fort McAllister. 912-727-2339.

30 – WARM SPRINGS – Memorial Day 28 – SAUTEE – Pig-Out Barbecue, CommunCelebration. 706-655-3322. ity Ctr., 12-5 p.m. 706-878-9349. Contra Dance & Potluck Dinner, 6:30-11 p.m. 706-878-3300.

28 – ST. MARYS – Fun in the Sun Expo, downtown, 912-882-4927.

975 West Peachtree Street at 10th Street 28-29 – ATLANTA – Atlanta Jazz Festival.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA 404-875-7275.

All-suite hotel; 28-29 – BLUE RIDGE – Arts in the Park Elegant kitchenettes; Festival, downtown. 706-632-2144.

Luxurious continental 28-29 – DECATUR – Decatur Arts Festival, breakfast; Square. 404-370-8386. complimentary 28-30 – OMAHA – Weekend Celebration, dinner Florence Marina State Park. 229-838-4706.

(Mon.-Thurs.)

28-30 – SAVANNAH – War of Jenkins’ Ear, Wormsloe. 912-353-3023.

Located two blocks from I-75/85, 28-30 – WARM SPRINGS – Swim the Warm next to Midtown MARTA station.

Springs. Reservations needed. 706-655-5870.

404-876-5003 / 800-642-3629 29 – HIAWASSEE – Fire on the Water www.regencysuites.com Fireworks Display, Ridges Resort. 706-896-2262.

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 13

M

REGENCY SUITES HOTEL

P Theatre P Music P Dance P Ocmulgee Symphony Orchestra in Macon, Cochran, & Hawkinsville Dr. Charles L. Quinn, Artistic Director of the Ocmulgee Symphony Orchestra, announces the upcoming performance of the fifth concert Transcendings and the sixth concert For the Joy of It! in the Orchestra’s 2010-11 concert series.

The Ocmulgee ATLANTA LYRIC THEATRE Symphony Orchestra Marietta, 404-377-9948, www.atlantalyrictheatre.com will offer two perThru Mar. 6 Leader of the Pack formances of Transcendings on April 16 at Apr. 15-May 1 The Mikado 7:30 p.m. at Middle Georgia College in Cochran and on April 17 at 3 p.m. at Wesleyan ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 404-733-4900, www.atlantasymphony.org College in Macon. The Orchestra will perform Mar. 11-12 The Chieftains For the Joy of It! on May 21 at 7:30 p.m. in Mar. 17,19,20 Mozart, Janacek Cochran (check website for location).

Mar. 18 Bryan Adams Half of the Ocmulgee Symphony OrchesMar. 24-26 Schubert, Sibelius tra musicians play in the Macon Orchestra, Mar. 25 Joan Rivers and the rest play in orchestras from Albany to Mar. 31-Apr. 1 Bartok, Brahms Rome with a few coming from Atlanta, Apr. 14-16 Tchaikovsky, Schumann Gainesville, Valdosta, and even South Apr. 21-23 Rachmaninov, Beethoven Carolina. The OSO’s goal is to provide great Apr. 28, 30 Mahler, Puccini music wherever the Ocmulgee River flows.

May 12-14 Beethoven, Ravel Tickets are $30 and are available by callMay 15 Lemony Snicket ing 478-934-9575 or visiting www.ocmulgee May 19, 21, 22 Mendelssohn, Britten symphonyorchestra.com.

May 27-28 Patti Lupone

14TH STREET PLAYHOUSE Atlanta, 404-733-4738, www.14thstplayhouse.org

Mar. 23-Apr. 24

Confessions of a Nightingale

ACTOR’S EXPRESS Atlanta, 404-607-show, www.actors-express.com

Mar. 17-Apr. 16 See What I Wanna See May 12-June 11 The Judas Kiss

AURORA THEATRE Lawrenceville, 678-226-6222, www.auroratheatre.com

Mar. 17-Apr. 10 May 12-June 6

Academy Over The River & Through the Woods

BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER 706,632-9223, www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com

ACT 3 PRODUCTIONS

Sandy Springs 770-241-1905, www.act3productions.org

Mar. 3-6, 11-13

All Shook Up

AGATHA’S Atlanta, 404-584-2211, www.agathas.com

Thru April 20 Apr. 21-July 27

Graves Anatomy The Bachelor–Date with Death

ALLIANCE THEATRE Atlanta, 404-733-5000, www.alliancetheatre.org

Thru Mar. 6 Mar. 5-20 Apr. 1-24 Apr. 13-May 8

Carapace Honk!

Spoon Lake Blues August: Osage County

ALPHARETTA CHRISTIAN THEATER

Thru Mar. 6 Mar. 18-27 Apr. 7-17 May 6-29

Caught in the Net Still Life with Iris Knock ‘Em Dead Dixie Swim Club

C.A.P.E. THEATER Brunswick, 912-571-1323, www.capetheater.org

Mar. 10-21

Talking With

CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS Atlanta, 404-873-3391, www.puppet.org

Thru Mar. 6 Thru. Mar. 13 Mar. 8-20 Mar. 22-Apr. 10 Apr. 7-May 29

Coyote Sings The Body Detective Dragon King Stinky Cheese Man Beauty & the Beast

Alpharetta, 678-371-3079, www.act1theaer.com

Mar. 4-27

Barbecuing Hamlet

ART STATION Stone Mountain, 770-469-1105, www.artstation.org

Thru Mar. 6 Apr. 27-May 15

Outrageous Adventures of Sheldon & Mrs. Levine Bonnie & Clyde Musical

ATHENS COMMUNITY THEATER

ELBERT THEATRE Elberton, 706-283-1049, www.elberttheatre.org

Mar. 11-20 Apr. 9 May 6-15

Noises Off UGA Ballroom Dance Group Long Day’s Journey Into Night

FORT GORDON PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE 706-793-8552, www.fortgordon.com

Mar. 4-12 Anything Goes Apr. 8-17 Little Shop of Horrors Apr. 29-30, May 13-21 Becky’s New Car 14 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011 706,548,3854, www.townandgownplayers.org

P Theatre P Music P Dance P GAINESVILLE THEATRE 678-717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org

Mar. 12-23

Midsummer Night’s Dream

MACON LITTLE THEATRE 478-471-play, www.maconlittletheatre.org

Apr. 8-17 May 20-29

The Velveteen Rabbit Bad Year for Tomatoes

GEORGIA ENSEMBLE THEATRE Roswell, 770-641-1260, www.get.org

Thru Mar. 13 Apr. 7-24

Inherit the Wind Forbidden Broadway

MAIN STREET PLAYERS Griffin, 770-229-9916, www.mainstreetplayers.org

Mar. 10-20 May 12-22

Grace & Glorie Tintypes: the Musical

GRAND THEATRE Cartersville, 770-386-7343, www.thegrandtheatre.org

Mar. 5 Apr. 16

Marrakesh Express The Grascals (bluegrass)

HABERSHAM COMMUNITY THEATER Clarkesville, 706-839-1315, www.habershamtheater.org

Mar. 3-13 Apr. 14-24

Hairspray Cottonpatch Gospel

MORTON THEATRE Athens, 706-613-3771, www.mortontheatre.com

Apr. 1-3

Dearly Departed

NEWNAN THEATER COMPANY 770-683-6282, www.newnantheatre.com

Mar. 17-27 Apr. 14-23 May 12-22

Cinderella Evie’s Waltz Rumors

HENRY PLAYERS McDonough, 770-914-1474, www.henryplayers.com

Mar. 31-Apr. 3

The Producers

NEW AMERICAN SHAKESPEARE THEATRE TAVERN Atlanta, 404-874-5299, www.shakespearetavern.com

HISTORIC RITZ THEATRE Brunswick, 912-262-6934, www.goldenislesarts.org

Mar. 10-20 Apr. 8

Talking With Closer Walk with Patsy Cline

ISLAND PLAYERS St. Simons, 912-638-0338, www.theislandplayers.com

Mar. 11-27 May 13-29

A Flea in Her Ear Father of the Bride

Thru Mar. 6 Romeo & Juliet Mar. 9-Apr. 17 Two Noble Kinsmen & Edward III

OCMULGEE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 478-934-9575, www.ocmulgeesymphonyorchestra.com

Apr. 16 Apr. 17 May 21

Middle Ga. College, Cochran Wesleyan College, Macon TBA, Cochran

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

15

P Theatre P Music P Dance P PUMPHOUSE PLAYERS

TALES FROM THE ALTAMAHA

Mar. 4-5 Mar. 12 Apr. 29-May 14

Apr. 7-16

Cartersville 770-387-2610, www.pumphouseplayers.com

Bad Dates Fashion Show Fundraiser Sylvia

Lyons, 912-526-6445, www.talesfromthealtamaha.com

Tales From the Altamaha

TATER PATCH PRODUCTIONS Jasper, 770-547-1096, www.taterpatchplayers.org

SAVANNAH THEATRE 912-233-7764, www.savannahtheatre.com

Thru Mar. 28 Mar. 2-May 29

The Savannah Tenors Southern Nights Music Variety

Mar. 18-26 Apr. 16-17 May 27-June 4

One Acts Art Festival Odd Couple

THEATRE IN THE SQUARE SOUTHSIDE THEATRE GUILD Fairburn, 770-969-0956, www.stgplays.com

Mar. 3-6 May 26-June 5

Tuesdays with Morrie Sex Please, We’re Sixty

Marietta, 770-422-8369, www.theatreinthesquare.com

Mar. 3-Apr. 10 Apr. 27-May 29

The Little Foxes Circle Mirror Transformation

SPRINGER OPERA HOUSE

THEATRE MACON

Mar. 3-19 Mar. 25-Apr. 2 May 5-21

Apr. 1-16 May 20-28

Columbus 706-324-5714, www.springeroperahouse.org

High School Musical Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer Lakebottom Proper

478-746-9485, www.theatremacon.com

My Fair Lady Twentieth Century

THEATRE GUILD VALDOSTA STAGE DOOR PLAYERS Dunwoody, 770-396-1726, www.stagedoorplayers.net

Mar. 18-Apr. 10 May 13-June 5

Butterflies Are Free Grand Night for Singing

229-247-8243, www.theatreguildvaldosta.com

Mar. 18-27 May 12-21

Lion, Witch, & Wardrobe Simply Divided

THOMASVILLE ON STAGE & CO. www.tosac.com

SWAMP GRAVY Colquitt, 229-758-5450, www.swampgravy.com

March Apr. 8-9, 15-16

16

The Big Picture May Haw: Laughter Is Best Medicine

Apr. 14-May 1

Chaps

WARNER ROBINS LITTLE THEATRE 478-929-4579, www.wrlt.org

Apr. 15-30

Sing Hallelujah!

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Entertainment Venues in Georgia A Day in the Country Festival in Augusta A Day in the Country Festival will return for an unprecedented 26th year, featuring CMA, AMA and ACM award winners Montgomery Gentry, along with Justin Moore, Corey Smith, SFC Jamie Buckley, and Georgia’s own Rachel Farley.

Grab your sunscreen, chairs, and blankets for a day of food, fun, and great country music on the banks of the Savannah River. Mark your calendars for Augusta’s longest-running outdoor musical event Sun., May 1, at the Augusta Riverfront Marina. Gates will open at 11 a.m.

There will be quality family entertainment, along with vendors, arts and crafts, and a variety of foods and beverages. The events will benefit the Augusta Sertoma Club and other local charities. Tickets will start at $30 in advance, $35 day of the show, and free for children Montgomery Gentry 6 & under with an adult.

For general admission, Coca-Cola Family Section, Sand Pit or Rhinehart’s Café tickets, log onto www.tixonline.com or charge by phone at 803-278-4849. For additional information, e-mail tkp@tixonline.com. No food, drinks, coolers, swimming, or pets will be allowed. No AARON’S AMPHITHEATRE at Lakewood Atlanta, 404-627-9704, www.aaronsamphitheater.com Re-entry, Rain or Shine. For information, visit Apr. 16 Tim McGraw on the web at ADayInTheCountry.org or May 20 Kenny Chesney phone 803-278-4849.

ATLANTA CIVIC CENTER

COBB ENERGY CENTRE

Mar. 12 Apr. 2

Mar. 1,4,6 Mar. 8-10 Mar. 11 Mar. 17-20 Mar. 25-27 Mar. 29 Apr. 9,12,15,17 Apr. 16 Apr. 27 Apr. 29 Apr. 30 May 2 May 21

404-658-7159, www.atlantaciviccenter.com

Royal Comedy Tour Salt-n-Pepa’s Legends of Hip Hop Tour Apr. 9-10, 15-17 Atlanta Passion Play May 6 70’s Soul Jam May 8 Mother’s Day Celebration

AUGUSTA ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX 706-722-3521, www.entertainmentcomplex.com

Mar. 3-6 Mar. 4 Mar. 12 Mar. 12 Mar. 18 Mar. 27 Apr. 16 May 8 May 11

Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Circus Royal Comedy Tour Augusta Blues Festival Blake Shelton, Easton Corbin & Steel Magnolia Symphony Orchestra Augusta Avett Brothers Grease The Color Purple Jagermeister Country Tour/ Dierks Bentley

CLASSIC CENTER

Athens, 800-918-6393, www.classiccenter.com

Mar. 23-24 Apr. 2 May 5 May 6-7 May 12 May 21

Mamma Mia Athens Symphony Concert The Color Purple Athens Symphony Concert Doc Severinsen Kids Expo

COBB GALLERIA CENTRE

Atlanta, 770-989-5095, www.cobbgalleria.com

Mar. 10-13 Mar. 19-20 Apr. 1-3 Apr. 9-10

Atlanta, 770-916-2800, www.cobbenergycentre.com

Atlanta Opera: Porgy & Bess Shen Yun Performing Arts Bethenny Frankel A Chorus Line Atlanta Ballet: Fusion Red State & Kevin Smith Atlanta Opera: Cosi fan tutte Lisa Lampanelli Tom Jones Lucinda Williams One Night of Queen The Decemberist Imagination Movers

l a v i t d s e l e F nce Ca

American Craft Council Show Model Train Show Spring Atlanta Home Show Down the Street Bead Show March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

17

Entertainment Venues in Georgia COLUMBUS CIVIC CENTER

FOX THEATRE

Mar. 3

Mar. 2-6 Mar. 11 Mar. 12 Mar. 22-27 Mar. 28 Mar. 29 Apr. 3 Apr. 20 Apr. 23 Apr. 26-May 1 May 6 May 9 May 17-22

706-494-8330, www.columbusciviccenter.org

May 12-15

Winter Jam Tour Spectacular (Christian Music) Disney on Ice/Toy Story 3

COLUMBUS RIVERCENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS

706-256-3600, www.rivercenter.org

Mar. 2 Mar. 5 Mar. 11 Mar. 13 Mar. 19 Mar. 27 Mar. 29 Apr. 1 Apr. 2 Apr. 13-14 Apr. 30 May 2 May 4-5

Brooklyn Rider String Quartet Evening with Lucille Ball Click, Clack, Moo What My Husband Doesn’t Know/David Talbert Columbus Symphony Orchestra Del McCoury Band Sensational Serenades New York Woodwind Quintet Columbus Symphony Orchestra Grease Columbus Symphony Orchestra Brooklyn Rider String Quartet Monty Python’s Spamalot

GEORGIA WORLD CONGRESS CENTER Atlanta, 404-223-4000, www.gwcc.com

Mar. 23-27 Apr. 9 Apr. 10 Apr. 21-22

Atlanta Int’l. Auto Show Diabetes Expo Ultimate Wedding Planning Event Alive Expo!

Atlanta, 404-881-2100, www.foxtheatre.org

Stomp Kem w/El Debarge & Ledisi Jerry Seinfeld Burn the Floor Russian Nat’l. Ballet Theatre Janet Jackson Further/Phil Lesh & Bob Weir GMA Dove Awards Yanni Shrek the Musical Kylie Minogue Omar Faruk Hair

GRAND OPERA HOUSE

Macon, 478-301-5460, thegrandmacon.com

Mar. 6 Mar. 15-16 Mar. 25-26 Mar. 30-31 Apr. 5-6 Apr. 13 Apr. 16 Apr. 17 May 3-4

Russian Nat’l. Ballet/Swan Lake Wizard of Oz Mamma Mia Thump!

Monty Python’s Spamalot Madeline & the Bad Hat Strings Extravaganza with Robert Spano Chorus Line Color Purple

GWINNETT CENTER

Duluth, 800-224-6422, www.gwinnettcenter.com

Mar. 4 Mar. 7 Mar. 10-12 Mar. 18 Mar. 18-20 May 13-14 May 20, 22

Kid Rock Hillsong United Original Sewing & Quilt Expo Monster Ball Tour/Lady GaGa Cinderella Professional Bull Riders Little Mermaid

IMPERIAL THEATRE

Augusta, 706-722-8341, www.imperialtheatre.com

Mar. 12 Apr. 2 Apr. 14

Sharon Jones & Dap-Kings Rumplestiltskin Paul Taylor Dance Co.

LUCAS THEATRE

Savannah, 912-525-5050, www.lucastheatre.com

Mar. 10-12 Mar. 16 Apr. 14 Apr. 15 Apr. 16 Apr. 23 May 12-22 May 27

Fahrenheit 451 Bryan Adams Davis Sedaris Lisa Lampanelli Dance: Giselle Act II Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra Hair Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra

MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER Madison, 877-233-0598, www.mmcc-arts.org

Mar. 15

18

Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers Mar. 25 Oh, Mr. Faulkner, Do You Write?

Mar. 26 Coleman Barks & David Darling Apr. 12 Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Entertainment Venues in Georgia PUNCHLINE COMEDY THEATRE

PHILIPS ARENA

Mar. 3-6 Mar. 11-12 Mar. 25-27 Apr. 1 Apr. 15-16 Apr. 21-24 Apr. 28-30 May 6-7

Mar. 19 Mar. 24 May 14

Atlanta, 404-252-5233, www.punchline.com

Tom Rhodes Ben Bailey Jon Reed (LCS) Gabriel Iglesias Dave Attell Sugar Sammy Kevin Pollak Kevin Pollak

SAVANNAH CIVIC CENTER

800-351-7469, www.savannahcivic.com

Mar. 1 Mar. 12 Mar. 19 Mar. 26-27 Apr. 6-7 Apr. 15 Apr. 17 May 21-22

RAIN: A Tribute to Beatles Columbia City Ballet: Cinderella Kevin Hart – Laugh at My Pain RK Gun Show Mamma Mia! Grease Tim McGraw Eastman Gun Show

Atlanta, 404-878-3000, www.philipsarena.com

Steve Harvey & Kirk Franklin Rod Stewart & Stevie Nicks Bon Jovi

THOMASVILLE MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM 229-227-4050 or 866-577-3600

Mar. 11-12 Mar. 18 Mar. 19 Apr. 2

Christian Music Festival Ballet Magnificat Nothin’ Fancy Concert Swamp Gravy

TRUSTEES THEATER

Savannah, 912-252-5050, www.trusteestheater.com

Mar. 9-13 Mar. 16 Apr. 14 Apr. 23 Apr. 23 May 12-22 May 27

Fahrenheit 451 Bryan Adams David Sedaris Savannah Philharmonic Chorus Iron & Wine Hair Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra

WILD ADVENTURES THOMASVILLE CENTER FOR THE ARTS 229-226-0588, www.thomasvilleculturalcenter.com

Mar. 2 Mar. 13 Mar. 24 Apr. 5 Apr. 17 May 8

Linda Eder Young Artist Concert Evening of Music, Dance & Art Venice Baroque Orchestra Thomasville Singers Music for Mother’s Day

Valdosta, 229-219-7080, www.wildadventures.net

Apr. 2 Apr. 9 Apr. 16 Apr. 30 May 7 May 14 May 21 May 28

Charlie Daniels & .38 Special Toby Mac Blake Shelton Doobie Brothers Mitchel Musso Mercy Me Josh Turner Foreigner

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

19

Spring is Magnif Large Motorhome Exhibition in Perry Hundreds of motorhomes and a variety of accessories will be assembled March 14-17 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter in Perry. The exhibition is part of a Family Reunion & Motorhome Showcase of the international motorhome owners’ club, the Family Motor Coach Assn., based in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The “Southern Homecoming” will feature hundreds of motorhomes on display and nearly 400 booths offering RV components and accessories, informative seminars, and entertainment. Daily admission for area residents will be $7/person; children 12 & under/free with adult; free/active military. A Daily Passport providing admittance to exhibits, seminars, and entertainment will be $65/person.

Motorhome display hours will be Monday 5-8:30 p.m., Tuesday 12-5 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibit hours for suppliers will be TuesdayThursday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday’s admission will be good on Tuesday. Parking will be at the West Gate. Take I-75, exit 135; go right on Gan. Courtney Hodges Blvd. and follow signs.

FMCA’s Family Reunion is expected to draw nearly 3,000 motorhomes and some 6,000 to 8,000 people. The Association offers its members discounts, mail forwarding, UPS discounts, Verizon Wireless special rate, trip routing, accidental death insurance, medical evacuation, emergency roadside, fuel discount, campground discounts, and monthly magazine, Family Motor Coaching. For information, phone 800-543-3622 or visit www.fmca.com.

St. Patrick’s Festival in Dublin The Order of Shillelagh and the Order of Blarney Stone will present the 46th annual St. Patrick’s Festival of Dublin-Laurens County, Inc. on Feb. 26-March 27 with 39 events including kite flying, golf and tennis tournaments, pageants, senior walk, youth rally, bridge and canasta benefit, pancake supper, library book sale, and Leprechaun contests. For a schedule, contact www.dublinstpatricks.com or 478-272-5546.

20

The festival will feature a Balloon Fest on Mar. 4-5, BBQ Cookoff at Market on Madison on Mar. 4-5, Lunch with Lucky the Leprechaun on Mar. 5, Shamrock Band Festival at W. Laurens H.S. in Dexter on Mar. 11-12, Shamrock Shindig at the Ice House on Mar. 18, Birdhouse Contest at Dublin Mall on Mar. 18, and more.

The Festival’s Super Weekend on March 19-20 will include a 1M race at 8 a.m.; 5K, and 10K races at 8:30 a.m.; rifle competition at 8 a.m.; arts and crafts, food, entertainment, and children’s activities from 9 a.m.; and a downtown parade at 10:30 a.m.

Special Saturday events will include an Irish corned beef and cabbage lunch, art show, gospel sing at the Church of God at 7 p.m., and Battle of Bands at Theatre Dublin at 7 p.m. On Sunday a bike ride will begin at 9 a.m. Mainstreet Munchies, in Downtown Dublin from 12-4 p.m., will feature a variety of food offerings and entertainment for all ages.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

ficent in Georgia Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival The City of Conyers will celebrate 30 years of fun, family, and tradition during the 2011 Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival at the Georgia International Horse Park on March 26-27 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The contemporary art festival will include 300 artist and crafter booths and a variety of food booths. A large, interactive children’s area will provide over 30,000 square feet of rides, games, and activities, while multiple stages will offer entertainment from diverse cultures along with local bands, karate demonstrations, and clogging groups.

Children can become a part of the high-energy music and dance performance during the Nick’s Kids Show.

Those who participate in the Passport Scavenger Hunt Activity will have a chance to win a souvenir. The festival’s entertainment stages will highlight Japanese cultural presentations, such as the Georgia Kyudo Renmei and The Kyudo Alliance performances demonstrating the traditional Japanese Martial Art of Archery. Guests can help decorate by taking part in the Cherry Tree Art Activity.

Admission to the festival will be free with a $5 parking fee per vehicle. For information or directions, call 770-602-2606 or 1-800-CONYERS or visit www.conyerscherryblossomfest.com.

Monthly Events in Georgia Mar. 4, Apr. 1, May 6 – AUGUSTA – 1st Friday, Downtown, 5-10 p.m. 706-826-4702.

Mar. 4, Apr. 1, May 6 – BRUNSWICK – 1st Friday, Downtown, 5-8 p.m. 912-265-4032.

Mar. 4, Apr. 1, May 6 – SAVANNAH – Oyster Fitzgerald Roast/Fireworks, Westin Riverside. 912-201-2000.

Wild Chicken Festival Mar. 4, Apr. 1, May 6 – THOMASVILLE – Downtown Night, 5-9 p.m. 229-227-7020.

The exotic and beautiful Burmese Mar. 4-25, Apr. 1-29, May 6-27 – MACON chickens are a familiar part of the downtown Friday Fest, downtown. 478-743-1074.

Fitzgerald scene. Resembling fighting game Mar. 4-26, Apr. 1-30, May 6-21 – AMERICUS chickens, they sport brilliant orange and SAM Shortline Excursion Train. Check dates. 877yellow ruffs and gleaming black tail feathers. ga-rails.

The Burmese chickens were released in Ben Mar. 4-26, Apr. 1-30, May 6-28 – WOODHill County in the 1960’s by the Georgia BINE – Opry, Fri. & Sat., 7-10 p.m. 912-576-3027.

Department of Natural Resources as an addiMar. 5, Apr. 2, May 7 – SAVANNAH – First tional game bird but somehow made their way Saturday on the River. 912-234-0295. to downtown Fitzgerald. There they have a Mar. 5-26, Apr. 2-30, May 7-28 – TALLUlove-hate relationship with residents, some of LAH FALLS – Bluegrass, Opry House, Saturdays, whom buy seed and feed them while others dark. 706-768-0745. chase them out of gardens with a broom! The Mar. 10, Apr. 14, May 12 – ELLIJAY – Cherry chickens wake up folks, create minor traffic Log Pickin’ (Bluegrass), Gilmer Sr. Ctr. 706-635-3786. problems, and, some claim, even keep the Mar. 12-27, Apr. 1-18, May 1-30 – BLUE bugs away.

RIDGE – Scenic Railroad. Ck. dates. 706-632-9833.

In celebration of these chickens, FitzMar. 13, Apr. 10, May 8 – COLUMBUS – gerald will hold its annual Wild Chicken Jazz Jam, Liberty Theatre. 706-660-9295.

Festival on Saturday, March 19, in the historic Mar. 25, Apr. 15 – LUMPKIN – Craft Day at downtown with arts & crafts, food, fun, and Westville Village. 888-733-1850. more. There will be a pancake breakfast Mar. 27, Apr. 17, May 15 – BRUNSWICK beginning at 6 a.m., a 5K Wild Chicken Sprint Rhythm on the River, Queen Sq., 912-265-4032. at 8 a.m., a Cheehaw Park nature show at Mar. 27, Apr. 24, May 29 – JEKYLL ISLAND 11 a.m., a chicken crowing contest at noon, a Dinner Dance, J.I. Club Hotel. 912-635-2400. wing eating contest at 2 p.m., a group chickMar. 25-Apr. 29 – SAVANNAH – Savannah en dance at 4 p.m., and entertainment all day.

Music Festival. 912-525-5050.

For information, visit www.fitzgeraldga.org Mar. 26, Apr. 23, May 28 – SAUTEE – Contra or phone 800-386-4642 or e-mail fitztourism Dance/Potluck Dinner, 6:30 p.m. 706-878-3300. @mchsi.com.

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 21

Blessing of the Fleet Festival in Darien The 43rd annual Blessing of the Fleet Festival will be held in historic Darien April 1-3. The fun will begin Friday at 5 p.m. with arts and crafts, food, and children’s activities. The Waterfront Park will come alive at 7 p.m. with a concert by country performer/song writer Rhett Akins.

Saturday events will include a parade with U.S. military and Scottish color guards at 10 a.m., a 5K Darien River run/walk at 8 a.m., live entertainment, Kids’ Zone, antique car show at 11 a.m., a performance by The Tams and the 14 Karat Gold Band at 7 p.m., and fireworks over the Darien River at 9 p.m. Art in the Park, a juried art show in Vernon Square, will host jazz by Michael Huett on Saturday and Sunday along with a fine selection of paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry, and textiles. Sunday entertainment will feature a religious rock concert at 11 a.m.

The Shrimp Boat Marine Parade beginning Sunday at 2 p.m. will be followed by the blessing. Representatives of the Darien-McIntosh Ministerial Association will take part in the ceremony. An awardes Rhett Akins ceremony will follow at 4 p.m.

Admission on Friday and Saturday will be $5/ 13 & up and free/12 & under with paying adult.

There will be no admission charge on Sunday. For information, visit www.blessingofthefleet.com, e-mail info@BlessingoftheFleet.com, or call 912-437-6684.

Spring Fling / Roosevelt Days in Warm Springs Spring Fling/Roosevelt Days will be April 8-9 in Warm Springs Village which is only 65 miles south of Atlanta and 40 miles north of Columbus. Spring Fling will feature entertainment, food, shopping, and horse & buggy rides. Admission will be free with festival hours from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, Warm Springs, with natural warm water, has welcomed tourists for over a century. Today Warm Springs is home to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Little White House and Museum and a downtown filled with unique shops, restaurants, and lodging.

Nearby is the U.S. Fish Hatchery with its ponds and aquarium.

On April 12 at 11 a.m. the Little White House will pay tribute to FDR on the 66th anniversary of his death. The program will include the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard, the Fort Benning Infantry Center Band, and a keynote speaker. On May 29-31 visitors can swim in the historic pools built by FDR, but reservations are required. For more information, phone 800-FDR-1927 or 706-655-3322 or visit www.warmspringsga.ws or www.visitmeriwether.com.

March 26 & 27, 2011 10 AM – 5 PM

Arts, Crafts, Entertainment, Children’s Activities, Food THE GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL HORSE PARK

Conyers, GA

• Exit 82 off I-20 Free Admission with $5 Parking Fee – No Pets Please!

www.conyerscherryblossomfest.com

770-602-2606 22

• Athletic Games • Workshops • Scottish Dance • Live Music • Great Food • Clan Gatherings • Kid Stuff • Genealogy Tent • Live Demos • Animals • and more . . .

CatCh the exCitement at

meeks Park June 11 & 12

two hours north of atlanta FriDaY, June 10 Ceilidh Reception & Kilted Golf Classic

1-877-745-5789

www.BlairsvillescottishFestival.org

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Baxley Tree Fest The 21st annual Baxley Tree Fest will be held April 8-9 in Downtown Baxley. Pre-festival fun will begin with the annual Tree-Tography Contest, Baxley’s Got Talent Contest, and a Cake Bake Competition. Festivities will begin Friday, April 8, with the official Tree Fest T-shirt day; t-shirts can be purchased for $10 each.

On Friday night at 6 p.m. (admission $2/person), boogie down at the annual Street Dance featuring live entertainment by the Swingin’ Medallions, great food, a kids’ fun zone, and arts and crafts vendors.

On Saturday, April 9, festivities will include something for everyone: a pancake breakfast, car/ motorcycle/antique tractor show, performances by Kings BMX Stunt Show, all day local entertainment, arts and crafts, great food, a Kids Fun Zone, and more. Vendors are welcome.

For additional information or an application to participate in the event, contact Karen Tharpe at 912-367-7731, ktharpe@bellsouth.net, or visit www.baxley.org.

Annual Perry Dogwood Festival The 23rd Annual Perry Dogwood Festival will be April 9-10 in historic Downtown Perry. Festival hours will be Saturday from 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. & Sunday from Noon-5 p.m.

Admission will be free.

This year’s festival will offer arts & crafts, kid rides, a softball tournament, the 5th Annual Perry Idol, festival food, local entertainment, and more. Events will kick off on Saturday morning with a pancake breakfast, the Dogwood 5K road race, and the Motorcycle Poker Run. Monthly Events in Georgia On Sunday sample all kinds of delicious desserts made by Perry Locals at the Apr. 2, 16, May 7 – CLARKESVILLE – Free Dogwood Day Dessert Contest.

Concerts, Pitts Park, 2-4 p.m. 706-754-2220.

The Perry Dogwood Festival will have Apr. 22, May 22 – BLUE RIDGE – Classic Cars something for everyone, from a large variety Cruise-In, Dairy Queen, 6 p.m. 706-838-4901. of arts & crafts to festival foods galore. There will be activities from a rock wall to pony rides MARCH to bungee jumping. The entire family can enjoy 1-27 – DUBLIN – St. Patrick’s Festival, a day of food, fun, and entertainment in beauvarious venues. 478-272-5546. tiful historic downtown Perry, located off I-75, 2-28 – SAVANNAH – War of 1812 Tall Ship exit 136. Visit www.perrydogwoodfestival.com LYNY America’s Privateer, River St. 866-446-5969. or phone 478-987-1234 for information.

3-6 – RICHMOND HILL – Civil War Anniversary, Fort McAllister. 912-727-2339.

4 – BRUNSWICK – Fiddlin’ Dan the Magic Man, Library, 6 p.m. 912-267-1212.

4-5 – DUBLIN – Balloon Fest and BBQ Cookoff at Market on Madison. 478-272-5546.

4-5 – TYBEE – Mardi Gras. 912-786-5444.

4-6 – SAVANNAH – International Boat Saturday Show, Trade Center. 864-250-9713.

5 – ALBANY – Mardi Gras Street Festival, downtown. 866-750-0840.

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN 5 – CALHOUN – Sequoyah Ball. 706-629-1930.

All Day Events include, but not limited to ...

5 – DUBLIN – Lunch with Lucky the Leprechaun. 478-272-5546.

Family Fun • Chicken Shows at the Coop 5 – JASPER – Mardi Gras in the Mountains, Children’s Activities • Great Food Chatt. Tech. College, 6:30 p.m. 706-253-4100.

Pancake Breakfast (6 a.m.) • 5K Sprint 5 – LUMPKIN – Firing of the Groundhog Kiln, Westville Village. 888-733-1850.

1 mi. Fun Run • Pine Wood Derby Race 5 – PORT WENTWORTH – Collard Greens Miss Wild Chicken Pageants •Souvenirs Festival, Promised Land Farm. 912-965-1999.

Wing Eating Contest • Gymnastics 5 – RICHMOND HILL – Confederate Fort Occupation, Ft.McAllister. 912-727-2339.

Entertainment Throughout the Day 5 – SAUTEE – Diane Durrett, Historic Gym, 800-386-4642 • www.fitzgeraldga.org 8 p.m. 706-878-3300.

Fitzgerald Wild Chicken Festival March 19

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

23

Hawkinsville Harness Festival & Bar-B-Q Cook-Off The 38th annual Hawkinsville Harness Festival and Bar-B-Q Cook-Off will take place April 15-16 at the Lawrence L. Bennett Harness Track on 290 Abbeville Hwy. Pulaski County’s affair with harness racing began in 1894. Since that time, several world champions have been trained on the Hawkinsville tracks. The Georgia red clay and mild climate make an excellent combination for conditioning young horses. For more than thirty years, Pulaski County has celebrated its enduring bond to harness racing with the Annual Harness Horse Festival.

Events will include Friday fireworks, live music by the Kinchafoonee Cowboys, and a Georgia Barbecue Assn. sanctioned Cook-Off. Saturday events will include harness racing, parade, live music & entertainment, Georgia Barbecue Assn. sanctioned Cook-Off Judging, 5K run, inflatables, bungee jump, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, food vendors, and arts & crafts booths.

Hawkinsville is located in central Georgia, is 120 miles south of Atlanta, and is almost equal distance from I-75 and I-16. The Golden Isles Parkway, U.S. 341, links Hawkinsville to I-75 & I-95. Lodging is available. For information, phone 478-783-1717, e-mail kimberly@hawkinsville chamber.org, or visit www.hawkinsvillechamber.org.

Magical Easter Eggstravaganza in Cleveland The 23rd Annual Cabbage Patch Kids Magical Easter Eggstravaganza will be held Saturday, April 16, in Cleveland at the new Babyland General Hospital location off Hulsey Road at 300 NOK Drive.

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny and the Cabbage Patch Kids will be held at the Babyland General Hospital Ballroom from 7:30-9 a.m. There will be gifts and prizes. For reservations phone 706-865-5356.

A parade downtown at 11 a.m. will feature floats, band, horses, collections, cars, clowns, and Cabbage Patch Kid costume characters.

A free Egg Hunt at 2 p.m. for ages 10 and under on the grounds of Babyland General Hospital will feature 25,000 eggs filled with prizes, candy, or small toys. Prizes will be redeemed there following the hunt. A Cabbage Patch Kid Easter Bonnet Contest will begin at 3 p.m.

Festivities at Babyland General Hospital from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. will include hospital tours, a DJ, music, dancing with Cabbage Patch Kid Characters, local artists, crafts, food, games, moonwalk, bungee jumping, rock climbing wall, drawings, and prize redemptions. Admission will be free. For information, phone 706-865-2171 or 706-865-5356 or visit www.whitecountychamber.org or www.cabbagepatchkids.com.

Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games The Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games on June 11-12 at Meeks Park will celebrate Scottish heritage by showcasing Scottish foods, athletics, music, and dance.

The Kilted Golf Tournament and Ceilidh Reception with buffet dinner and entertainment will be held June 10. Festival hours will be Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. with an opening ceremony Saturday at noon, a worship service followed by Kirkin' of the Tartans Sunday at 9 a.m., and a closing ceremony Sunday at 3 p.m.

There will be a genealogy tent; musical workshops; children’s activities; Border Collie, Gordon Setter, and Falconry demonstrations; exhibit of Scottish Highland Cattle; and reenactments by The Wild Highlanders and Clann Nan Con. Music and entertainment will be presented by the Oakcakes, Hooligans, Colin Grant-Adams, Tres de Solei, piper Joshua Craig, Royal Scottish Country Dance Society, and Glencoe School of Scottish Highland Dance. Playing the pipes and drums will be the Atholl Highlanders, Alhambra Highlanders, Chattahoochee Celtics, Appalachian St. Andrews, John Mor MacIntosh, and North Atlanta bands.

The Highland Games athletic events will include traditional contests, and athletes must wear kilts to compete. Admission will be $10/day or $15/two days with children 12 & under free.

General festival information is available by calling 706-745-5789 or 877-745-5789 or visiting www.BlairsvilleScottishFestival.com.

24

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Southland Jubilee in Greensboro Celebrate Greene County’s rich and varied cultural history at the 13th annual Southland Jubilee on Saturday, April 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Greensboro. Admission will be free.

Southland Jubilee will have something for everyone: continuous live entertainment, juried arts and crafts vendors, heritage crafters and demonstrations, antique tractors, living history interpreters, a children’s activity area, agricultural exhibits, a classic car show, and festival foods.

Last year’s event drew a crowd of people from across Georgia and the Southeast.

Greensboro is located east of Atlanta off I-20 at the Lake Oconee exit #130. Lodging is available at local hotels, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds. For more information, visit www.southlandjubilee.com or call 706-453-7674 or 800-886-5253.

Mossy Creek Barnyard Festival Near Warner Robins The Semi-Annual Mossy Creek Barnyard Festival between Warner Robins and Perry on April 16-17 will welcome visitors with whiffs of barbecue and other delicious foods, sounds of fiddles, and original and creative arts and crafts in and amongst the old homestead buildings and throughout the terraced woods. The amphitheater in Dogwood Hollow will feature bluegrass bands, gospel quartets, and dance teams. Over 40 old-timers will resurrect pioneer ways: dipping candles, carving decoys and knobbits, building fishing rods, weaving chairseats with cornshucks, making baskets, building dulcimers and brooms, tatting, cutting silhouettes, tinsmithing, and more.

Children’s activities will include storytelling, farm animals, hayrides, horseback rides, and a magician-ventriloquist. The semi-annual festiMARCH val is always the third weekend in April (unless 5 – ST. MARYS – Mardi Gras Festival & Ball; Easter falls then) and the third weekend in Great Camden Co. Chili Cookoff. 912-882-4000.

October. Festival hours will be 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

6 – BRUNSWICK – Quartetto Gelato, Glynn Admission will be $5/adults and $1/ children; Academy Auditorium, 3 p.m. 912-638-5616. parking will be free. No pets allowed. Located 7-13 – SAVANNAH – Girl Scout Week, six miles from I-75 off Exit 144 to Lake Joy Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace. 912-233-4501.

Road. Phone 478-922-8265 or 888-288-wrga 10 – BRUNSWICK – Paul Douglas Big Band or visit www.mossycreekfestival.com or & Swing Concert, Library, 7 p.m. 912-267-1212. www.warnerrobinsga.gov for information.

10-13 – CARTERSVILLE – S. E. Cowboy Gathering, Booth Museum. 770-387-1300.

11 – COLUMBUS – Port Columbus 11th Anniversary Celebration, 11 a.m. 706-327-9798.

11 – SAVANNAH – Greening of Forsyth Park Fountain. 912-233-4804.

11 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – American Boychoir, Presbyterian Church. 912-638-2220.

11-12 – DEXTER – Shamrock Invitational Band Festival, W. Laurens H.S. 478-272-5546.

Saturday 11-12 – DOUGLAS – Home & Garden ShowApril 30, 2011 case, Central Square Complex. 912-383-0277.

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

11-13 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Art Festival, Goodyear Cottage. 800-535-9547.

Downtown Calhoun 12 – AUGUSTA – Augusta Symphony Great Food Crafts Kitchen Tours. 706-826-4705.

12 – MADISON – Motown Madness, Live Music Story Tellers Conference Center, 6-11 p.m. 706-438-4755.

Antique Tractor Rides 12 – SAVANNAH – Tara Feis Irish Festival, Pony Rides & Petting Farm Emmet Park. 912-651-6417.

12 – TYBEE ISLAND – Irish Heritage Fun for all Ages!

Celebration Parade, 3 p.m. 912-786-5444.

Brought to you

by Mohawk Industries 12-13 – COLUMBUS – RiverBlast! Nat’l. Civil 706-625-3200 War Naval Museum, Port Columbus. 706-327-9798.

6thual Ann

More Than a Taste of Calhoun

•

•

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

25

Georgia Strawberry Festival in Reynolds The Georgia Strawberry Festival will be held April 22-23 in Reynolds, located approximately 22 miles west of I-75 at the intersection of GA 96 and GA 128. Admission and parking will be free. For more information, phone 478-847-5301 or visit www.ga-strawberry.org.

The fun will begin Friday evening in the park with a barbeque pork dinner prepared by Taylor County Rescue, hot dogs, hamburgers, and strawberry shortcake. There will be children’s activities; and performing in the park gazebo will be the gospel group, Calvary’s Way, from Macon.

Saturday’s events will begin with a 5K run at 8 a.m., an Easter Bunny Parade at 10 a.m. with all kids and Easter bunnies invited to participate, and the Grand Parade with antique and classic cars, trucks, bands, and more. There will be over 100 artists and craftsmen from around the S.E., a car and truck show, an Easter egg hunt, vintage jukebox spinning records in the gazebo, farmers’ market, strawberries for sale, food, local entertainment all day, carnival rides, old book sale, photography contest, and local artists’ exhibit. Two special events will be the Georgia Strawberry Cook-Off at the Flint Energy Building at 1 p.m. with samples ready for tasting and the Lawn Mower Races at 5 p.m. Admission and parking will be free; the event is handicap accessible.

More Than a Taste of Calhoun “More Than a Taste of Calhoun” will be held downtown on Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m.4 p.m. This festival is presented by the Gordon County Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitors Bureau Committee in cooperation with Alpha Delta Kappa and Downtown Development Authority. It is sponsored by Mohawk Industries.

“More Than a Taste of Calhoun” will be a familyfriendly, fun-filled activity appealing to children with its antique tractor rides, storytellers, face painting, glitter tattoos, pony rides, animal petting attractions, and other children’s activities. For adults there will be vendors offering basket weaving, wreaths and floral creations, custom-made jewelry, woodworking, and more; plant sales; food; and live music.

For information, visit www.ExploreGordonCounty.com or phone 800-887-3811 or e-mail sueellen@gordonchamber.org. Also call 706-625-3200 for information.

MARCH 12-13 – VALDOSTA – Azalea Festival, Drexel Park. 229-269-9381.

14-17 – PERRY – Family Reunion & Motorhome Showcase, Ga. Nat’l. Frgnds. 800-543-3622.

17 – CONYERS – World’s Fastest Growing St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 4:30 p.m. 770-602-2606.

17 – FITZGERALD – Concert, Carnegie Center, 7 p.m. 229-426-5035.

17 – MADISON – Taste of Madison, 5:308 p.m. 706-342-4454.

17 – SAVANNAH – 187th St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 10:15 a.m. 912-233-8404.

17-19 – SAVANNAH – St. Patrick’s Day on River Street. 912-234-0295. City Market St Patrick’s Day Celebration. 912-232-4903.

17-21 – FITZGERALD – St. Patrick’s Skydiving Celebration. 478-256-2562.

18 – AUGUSTA – Symphony Pops Concert, Bell Auditorium, 7:30 p.m. 706-826-4705.

18 – DAHLONEGA – Springer Mountain Trail Fest. 706-867-9742.

18 – DALTON – Ceilidh & Brookwoods, Art Guild, 7 p.m. 706-278-0168.

26

18 – DUBLIN – Shamrock Shindig at Ice House & Birdhouse Contest, Dublin Mall. 478272-5546.

18 – THOMASVILLE – Friday at Noon Concert, Thomas University. 229-227-6964.

18-19 – BLAIRSVILLE – Shamrock Dulcimer Blast, Old Courthouse, 7 p.m. 706-745-5493.

18-20 – NORTH GEORGIA – Wine Highway Weekend. 877-745-5789.

18-29 – MACON – Cherry Blossom Festival.

478-743-1074.

19 – CARTERSVILLE – Artifact ID Day, Etowah Indian Mounds. 770-387-3747. Iron Pour, Red Top Mountain State Park. 770-975-4226.

19 – DARIEN – Scottish Heritage Day, Fort King George. 912-437-4770. St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, Shellman Bluff. 912-437-4837.

19 – FITZGERALD – Wild Chicken Festival, downtown. 800-386-4642.

19 – HIAWASSEE – Charlie Daniels, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. 706-896-4191.

19 – KINGSLAND – Car Show, Downtown.

912-729-5613.

19 – NEWNAN – Charles Wadsworth Concert, Wadsworth Aud., 7:30 p.m. 770-254-2627.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Vidalia Onion Festival Vidalia, the “Sweet Onion City,” will hold its 34th annual Vidalia Onion Festival April 28 - May 1.

Festivities will begin Thursday with a children’s parade at 5 p.m., the Vidalia Onion Culinary Extravaganza at 6 p.m., and a free movie under the stars at the football stadium. On Friday there will be opening ceremonies, a street dance with the Swingin’ Medallions, and fireworks at the S.E. Technical College.

Saturday will begin with the Vidalia Onion MARCH Run (1M walk, 5K and 10K races). On 19 – THOMASVILLE – Pavo Car & Truck Saturday and Sunday there will be arts and Show, Peacock Recreation Center. 478-231-3480. crafts, food, entertainment, and onion eating 19-20 – COLUMBUS – Thunder in the Valley contest. Saturday will feature a car show, Air Show, Metropolitan Airport. 706-393-3000. antique fair, motorcycle rally, and a concert by 19-20 – DUBLIN – St. Patrick’s Festival Super Kellie Pickler with Tracy Lawrence.

Weekend, downtown. 478-272-5546.

The Vidalia Onion Festival Air Show on 19-20 – ST. SIMONS – Invitational Arts & April 30-May 1 will feature the U.S. Special Crafts Show, Pier Village. 912-262-0628.

Operation’s Black Daggers Parachute team, 20 – WOODBINE – Jazz & Arts on Satilla FMX World Tour, Franklin’s Flying Circus & Riverwalk, 1-5 p.m. 912-576-1162.

Airshow, Smoke-n-Thunder Jet Shows, Team 22 – BRUNSWICK – St. Petersburg Classical MS760 Aerobatics, Team RV, Tim Weber Ballet, Glynn Academy Aud., 8 p.m. 912-638-5616.

Airshows, Tumbling Tiger Aerobatic Airshows, 23-26 – COLUMBUS – Just 4 Kidz Consignand Wounded Warrior Flight Team. ment Sale, Trade Center. 706-321-8269.

Other events will include sports tourna24 – COLUMBUS – Author Jeff Shaara, ments, rodeo, carnival, samples and sales of National Infantry Museum. 706-243-2689.

Vidalia onions, sidewalk sale, wagon rides at 25 – COLUMBUS – Taste of Town-Symphony Buckhorn Creek Ranch, and pageants. For of Food & Wine, RiverMill. 800-999-1613. information and schedule, call 912-538-tour 26 – AUGUSTA – Symphony Orchestra or visit www.vidaliaonionfestival.com.

Augusta, 1st Baptist, 7:30 p.m. 706-826-4705.

26 – BUCKHEAD – Buckhead Days. 706-342-3339.

26 – DAHLONEGA – Yahoola Spring Powwow. 706-864-3513.

26 – FITZGERALD – Grand Theatre Barton Organ Concert, 7 p.m. 229-426-5090.

26-27 – CONYERS – Cherry Blossom Festival, Ga. Int’l. Horse Park, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 800-conyers.

27 – COLUMBUS – Ft. Benning’s Tour of Homes. 706-763-8856.

28 – DARIEN – Shrimp Eating Contest, 12:30 p.m., 912-437-6684.

31 – WINDER – Fort Yargo Colonial Market Faire. 770-867-3489.

Take the Road Less Traveled!

Georgia’s Peach Blossom Trail

APRIL 1-3 – DARIEN – Blessing of the Fleet Festival, And Waterfront Park. 912-437-6684.

Experience 1-3 – HELEN – Glass Art Conference, GHAA Art. 800-858-8027.

An Ocean 2 – BLAIRSVILLE – Car & Bike Show, Lodge of Pink at Copperhead. 877-745-5789.

2 – CARTERSVILLE – Car Cruize, Friendship and White Plaza, 5-8 p.m. 770-607-3480.

Blossoms 2 – FOLKSTON – Railwatch, downtown.

912-496-2536.

Mid-February 2 – OMAHA – Festival by the Lake, Florence through Marina St. Pk. 229-838-4706.

March 2-3 – CARTERSVILLE – Springtime at the Homestead, Red Top Mt. St. Pk. 770-975-4226.

888-288-9742 2-3 – PERRY – Spring Home & Garden Show, www.peachblossomtrail.com Georgia National Fairground. 478-988-8344.

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

27

Spring Events in McDuffie County Thomson’s annual Car Show at the Depot in downtown Thomson will be held on Saturday, April 30, and will feature dozens of antique and collectible3 autos, cars, and trucks.

Trophies and prize money will be awarded to winners in different categories.

The first Saturday in May will mark the Dearing Mayfest which will start with the parade at 9 a.m. and offer fun, shopping, food, and a variety of entertainment throughout the day.

The McDuffie Arts Council’s 3rd Annual Arts in the Alley on Saturday, May 14, will highlight a diverse mixture of musical ensembles, dance troupes, and interactive children’s art activities. Local visual artists will showcase their works of paintings, pottery, metal work, sculpture, photography, illustrations, folk art, and fine craft. The day-long cultural event will take place rain or shine.

The 18th Annual Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival will be held on Saturday, May 21, with an impressive line-up: Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, Marcia Ball, Sonny Landreth, Jimmy Hall & the Prisoners of Love featuring Jack Pearson, the Georgia Horns featuring Chris Crenshaw and Marcus Printup, Jack Pearson, Atlanta's Mark Miller & Travelin Shoes, and Crosstie Walkers.

For information, phone 706-597-1000 or visit www.exploremcduffiecounty.com.

Mayfling Arts & Crafts Festival in Griffin The Great Griffin Mayfling will celebrate its 28th year of fine arts and crafts, food by local vendors, entertainment, children’s activities, and more in City Park on April 30-May 1. The Mayfling is a juried show of fine arts and crafts with prizes awarded in both categories. Applications are available at the Griffin-Spalding Chamber of Commerce at 770-2288200 or www.griffinchamber.com.

Griffin’s City Park will come alive with activity on Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The annual Chess Tournament and Texas Hold’em will be held in the Community Center at the Park, and entertainment will be presented in the main pavilion.

The Southeastern Reptile Rescue, as seen on Animal Planet, will have a display of live snakes and other reptiles on both days with seminars on these animals presented by APRIL Jason Clark. An antique car show will also be 4 – DALTON – Celtic Crossroads World held on Saturday.

Fusion Tour, Trade Center. 800-331-3258.

Festival hours on Sunday will be from 11 6 – COLUMBUS – Topic: Soldiers, Slaves, & a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Citizens, Port Columbus, 6:30 p.m. 706-327-9798.

6-10 – COLUMBUS – Civil War 150th Commemoration Symposium. 706-327-9798.

8 – MACON – Fired Works & Regional Ceramics Exhibit & Sale, City Park. 478-743-6940.

8-9 – BAXLEY – Baxley Tree Fest, downtown.

912-367-7731.

8-9 – WARM SPRINGS – Spring Fling/ Roosevelt Days. 706-655-3322.

9 – ALBANY – Symphony Orchestra, Municipal Auditorium, 7:30 p.m. 229-430-8933.

9 – ATHENS – UGA International Street FRIDAY, APRIL 22 Festival, downtown. 706-542-5867. Georgia Enjoy an evening in the Julian Knight Park with dinner Children’s Chorus Kitchen Tour. 800-653-0603. and gospel music from Calvary’s Way under the trees 9 – CARTERSVILE – Native American WeaSATURDAY, APRIL 23 pons/Tools, Etowah Mounds. 770-387-3747.

5K Run • Easter Bunny Parade • Grand Parade 9 – PLAINS – Car Show, Main Street & High Arts & Crafts • Car & Truck Show • Photography Show School. 229-824-3462.

Children’s Egg Hunt • Cook-Off • Lawn Mower Races 9-10 – BLUE RIDGE – Plein Air Fest, Art Entertainment • Farmers’ Market • Carnival Rides Center. 706-632-2144.

Free Admission & Parking • Family Oriented 9-10 – PERRY – Perry Dogwod Festival, Handicap Accessible downtown. 478-987-1234.

Info message 478-847-5301 9-10 – SAUTEE – Shubert Alley in the Valley. www.ga-strawberry.org 706-878-3300.

Reynolds

28

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

River Town Days Festival in Bainbridge Spring is here and that means one thing in Bainbridge, Georgia…it’s time to get outdoors! The River Town Days Festival will be the perfect place to enjoy the spring weather. Held on Mother’s Day weekend, the festival will kick off on Friday, May 6, with a concert by the Kinchafoonee Cowboys.

Saturday will bring activities for kids of all ages. There will be a minimidway with a rock climbing wall, kayak race, and boat parade. Kids can explore a pirate ship, while adults look for treasure in the Great River Rummage.

If festivals aren’t your thing, take your rod and fish for bass in the Flint River or on Lake Seminole. In 2008, the Georgia State Legislature declared Bainbridge the Bass Capital of Georgia. The Flint River and Lake Seminole offer abundant fishing and other water sports like skiing, kayaking, and canoeing. Silver Lake Wildlife Management Area offers hiking, hunting and fishing.

For more information on how you can explore the outdoors in Bainbridge, call 229-243-8555 or visit www.visitbainbridgega.com.

Ball Ground Heritage Days Festival The Ball Ground Heritage Days Festival will be held May 14-15 in the heart of the city. The two day event will feature arts and crafts, good food, children’s activities, and entertainment.

The festivities will begin Saturday at 10 a.m. with a parade through downtown featuring floats, antique cars, shriners, ball teams, and more. A $1.98 Beauty Contest will be held Saturday at 5:30 p.m., and dancing in the park will begin at 7 p.m. Festival hours will be Saturday from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. On Sunday entertainment will be provided by the band Glorybound.

The 2nd Annual Business Expo will be held Saturday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and will give local businesses a chance to promote their companies and inform the community of what they have to offer.

To reach Ball Ground take I-575N to exit 27. For more information, phone 770-735-4263 or visit www.ballgroundheritagedays.com.

All the Best of Today’s South!

APRIL 9-10 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Glynn Art in the Park Festival, Pier Village. 912-638-8770.

12 – WARM SPRINGS – FDR Commemorative Ceremony, Little White House. 706-655-5870.

15-16 – COLQUITT – Mayhaw Festival, Downtown & Spring Creek Pk. 229-758-2400.

15-16 – HAWKINSVILLE – Harness Festival & BBQ Cook-Off, Harness Track. 478-783-1717.

16 – HELEN – Volksmarch, 7-11 a.m. 706878-1908.

16 – AUGUSTA – Symphony Orchestra Augusta, 1st Baptist, 7:30 p.m. 706-826-4705.

16 – CLEVELAND – Cabbage Patch Kids Magical Easter Eggstravaganza, Babyland General Hospital. 706-865-5356.

16 – GREENSBORO – Southland Jubilee, downtown. 800-886-5253 or 706-453-7674.

16 – MACON – Taste of Soul, Tubman Museum, 7-11 p.m. 478-743-8544.

16-17 – ADAIRSVILLE – Antiques & Arts, downtown. 800-733-2280.

16-17 – BLUE RIDGE – Spring Fest, Farmers Market. 706-946-6003.

16-17 – DAHLONEGA – Bear on the Square Mountain Festival, Gold Museum. 706-864-3513.

16-17 – JASPER – Artfest. 706-276-3020.

16-17 – WARNER ROBINS – Mossy Creek Barnyard Festival. 478-922-8265 or 888-288-wrga.

Relive the Old Days at

Mossy Creek Barnyard Festival

April 16 & 17 2011

(and Oct. 15 & 16, 2011) www.mossycreekfestival.com

Experience the Museum of Aviation 4th Largest Aviation Museum in the U.S., Free Admission

www.museumofaviation.org

1950+ Hotel Rooms • 105 Restaurants 1200 Seat Civic Center Conference & Meeting Spaces I-75 Exits 144 & 146

888-288-WRGA www.warnerrobinsga.gov March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 29

Georgia Peach Festival in Fort Valley & Byron The 25th annual Georgia Peach Festival will get underway Friday, June 4, in Byron and come to a close Saturday, June 11, in Fort Valley.

The first official event of the festival will be the Historical Society Luncheon at the Byron United Methodist Church Friday, June 4, at noon. The festival will continue Saturday in Byron with the Paul Reehling Memorial Poker Run in the morning and an evening concert with kids activities and fireworks at North Peach Park.

The festival will move to Fort Valley Tuesday, June 7, with Spaghetti and Jazz at the Austin Theater from 5:30-8 p.m., Khoury’s Walk for Health in APRIL the Historic District Wednesday at 7 a.m., and 17 – KINGSTON – Confederate Memorial the Peach Community Choir Concert at the Day Service, Baptist Church. 770-336-7053.

Austin Theater Thursday at 7 p.m.

17-May 1 – AUGUSTA – Sacred Heart Saturday, June 11, will include a 5K road Cultural Center Garden Festival. 706-826-4700. race at 7 a.m., a Kiwanis Club pancake 21 – FITZGERALD – Concert, Carnegie breakfast, the Peach Parade through downCenter, 7 p.m. 229-426-5035. town at 10 a.m., the Historical Society 21 – NEWNAN – Taste of Newnan/Wings Luncheon at McArthur Saxon House, arts Cook-Off, Square, 5-8:30 p.m. 770-254-2627. and crafts, music, food, kids activities, water 21-23 – THOMASVILLE – Rose Show & slides, inflatable play, free tours of Lane Festival. 866-577-3600.

Southern Orchards, the World’s Largest 21-24 – CARTERSVILLE – N.Ga. Flint Knappers Peach Cobbler served at 2 p.m. at the Court& Primitive Arts Fest, Gatewood Pk. 770-304-8760. house, a free concert at 8 p.m., and a fire22-23 – REYNOLDS – Georgia Strawberry works finale.

Festival, downtown. 478-847-5301.

Visit www.worlds largestpeachcobbler.com 22-24 – SAVANNAH – Fine Arts on River or call 478-420-0072 for information.

Street. 912-234-0295.

46th Annual

Dublin February 26 - March 27

Family Fun for Every Age and Interest

39 different events presented by the Orders of Shillelagh and Blarney Stone.

478-272-5546 Super Saturday

March 19

23 – BLUE RIDGE – Easter Egg-Spress, Scenic Railroad. 706-632-9833.

23-24 – MACON – Pan African Festival of Georgia, Tubman Museum. 478-743-8544.

26 – BRUNSWICK – Dallas Brass, Glynn Academy Auditorium, 8 p.m. 912-638-5616.

27-May 1 – ATHENS – Georgia’s Antebellum Trail Pilgrimage. 800-709-7406.

28 – VIDALIA – Vidalia Onion Culinary Extravaganza, 6 p.m. 912-538-tour.

28-May 1 – VIDALIA – Vidalia Onion Festival.

912-538-tour.

29-30 – HELEN – Corvair Club Car Show, Helendorf Inn. 706-878-2271.

29-30 – LUMPKIN – Westville Village in the Civil War. 888-733-1850.

29-30 – SAVANNAH – Garden Club’s NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens. 912-961-4805.

29-30 – WOODBINE – Crawfish Festival, downtown. 912-576-3211.

29-May 1 – MACON – Gardens, Mansions, & Moonlight. 478-742-8155.

30 – ADAIRSVILLE – Southern Veterans Festival. 770-547-9744.

30 – APPLING – Spring Fling, Mistletoe State Park. 706-541-0321.

30 – BLAIRSVILLE – CCC Reunion, Vogel State Park. 706-745-2628.

30 – CALHOUN – More Than a Taste of Calhoun, downtown, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 800-887-3811.

30 – CARTERSVILLE – Taste of Cartersville, Friendship Plaza. 770-607-3480.

www.dublinstpatricks.com 30 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Georgia JugFest in Knoxville Middle Georgia will celebrate its folk pottery traditions May 19-21 in Knoxville, Crawford County, at the combined Georgia JugFest and Old Knoxville Days.

For more than 100 years pottery was a big part of the area’s economy. Now it is collectible as craft, folk art, and history. A three-day antique and vintage pottery exhibit will open May 18, and the community kiln will be firing all that day. On May 20, a Pottery Lunch & Learn will focus on the pottery of Crawford County and Middle Georgia. Tickets are needed for that event but not for the Pottery ID that follows.

Everyone can bring in old pottery for identification. On Friday night the festival’s Peaches, Peanut and Pigs amateur cook-off will reward local and area cooks with prizes in Brunswick Stew, peach cobbler, and peanut dessert categories.

The main event on May 21 will feature the continuing exhibit, pottery and handcraft vendor sales, quilting display, benefit pottery auction, kiln sale, antique car and tractor show, lawn mower races, historic skills demonstrations, Brown Jug Children’s FunFest, student art exhibit, and historic building tours. Pancake breakfast and pork chop plates will top the list of homemade food, and homegrown musicians will provide live entertainment. Everything but the Lunch and Learn is free.

For details, visit www.gajugfest.com or call 478-836-3825.

Southworks Arts Festival in Watkinsville

l a v i t d s e l Fe nce Ca

Southworks Arts Festival, produced and sponsored by the Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation (OCAF), is the 16th annual celebration of the arts in all their forms. Southworks Arts Festival has two parts, the Juried Art Exhibit and the Juried Artist Market. The Juried Art Exhibit kicks off the festival for the arts with a gala reception Friday, April 1, in the main building, is free to the public, and runs through May 7.

The Juried Artist Market is an outdoor festival that will be held on Saturday and Sunday, April 30 & May 1, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on the common grounds in front of the OCAF facilities and includes an outdoor stage and food vendors.

The juried market will include pottery, paintings, fiber art, stained and fused glass, jewelry, sculpture, photography, and wood-work.

Southworks celebrates the arts by presenting a variety of art forms to the community: outdoor artists market, music and performance stage, KidsWorks, sculpture garden, and food booths.

OCAF is located at 34 School St. in Watkinsville and is open regularly Tues.-Sat. Saturday, , 2011 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, call 706-769-4565, e-mail info@ocaf.com, or visit 7:30-9 a.m. Breakfast www.OCAF.com.

April 16 Cleveland, GA

11 a.m.

Just 4 Kidz Consignment Sale

Columbus, Georgia Trade Center March 23-26, 2011

2 p.m.

3 p.m.

Easter Parade

In Downtown Cleveland Egg Hunt with 25,000 eggs

Cabbage Patch Kid Easter Bonnet Contest 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Arts, Crafts & Children’s Activities All at Babyland General Hospital 300 N.O.K. Drive, Cleveland, GA

www.just4kidzconsign.com

706-865-5356

706-321-8269

www.cabbagepatchkids.com www.whitecountychamber.org

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

31

PHOTO

COURTESY

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT

OF

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Georgia’s Peach Blossom Trail You can find peach trees in bloom on any given day from mid-February through the first of April somewhere along Georgia’s Peach Blossom Trail which runs along US 41341, parallel to I-75, and offers north/south travelers in the center of the state an alternative to the traffic and congestion of the interstate.

For almost six weeks peach blossoms transform the rolling plains into a sea of pink and white. The majority of blooms can be found in Peach (Fort Valley & Byron) and Crawford (Roberta) Counties, but blooms are viewable in limited areas in most of the counties along the trail. Generally the farther south you are, the earlier the blooming season. Also the varieties of fruit determine the blooming APRIL times. Mother Nature has the final say as she 30 – PORT WENTWORTH – Stand Up for dictates the minimum of chill hours (time that America Day Festival, downtown. 912-965-1999. the temperature is below 40-45 degrees), 30 – THOMSON – Classic Car Show, Depot. abundant sun, and warming temperature 706-597-1000. before blooming begins.

30 – WATKINSVILLE – Washington Farms Beginning in May peaches will be available Strawberry Festival. 706-769-0627. at packing facilities, roadside stands, and 30-May 1 – CLINTON – War Days in Old markets. Producing almost 85% of the peachClinton. 478-986-6383. es in Georgia are the counties along the 30-May 1 – GRIFFIN – Mayfling Arts & Peach Blossom Trail: Clayton, Henry, Lamar, Crafts Festival, City Park.770-228-8200.

Spalding, Crawford, Monroe, Peach, and 30-May 1 – VIDALIA – Vidalia Onion Festival Houston. They all have attractions from stately Air Show. 912-538-tour. l Southantebellum mansions in Clayton to the Atlanta 30-May 1 – WATKINSVILLE iv–alOCAF d t e s Speedway in Henry, the Museum of Aviation in works Artist Festival. 706-769-4565.

Fe nce Houston, and Massee Lane Gardens in Ca Peach. Visit www.peachblossomtrail.com or MAY phone 888-288-9742.

1 – AUGUSTA – A Day in the Country Festival, Augusta Riverfront Marina. 803-278-4849.

2 – BRUNSWICK – Coastal Symphony of ISTORIC Ga., Glynn Academy Aud., 8 p.m. 912-634-2006.

5 – BLAIRSVILLE – Cinco de Mayo Party, ARIEN Copperhead Lodge, 6 p.m. 877-745-5789.

5-7 – LUMPKIN – Spring Days at Westville FridayVillage. 888-733-1850.

Sunday 5-26 – McCAYSVILLE – Pickin’ in Horseshow Bend Park, Thursdays, 6 p.m. 706-632-7696.

6-7 – BAINBRIDGE – River Town Days. 229243-8555.

6-7 – CALHOUN – Community Chorus, Harris Arts Center. 706-629-2599.

6-7 – MADISON – Madison in May Tour of Homes. 706-342-4743.

7 – ABBEVILLE – Ocmulgee Wild Hog Festival. 229-467-2144 or 229-467-2107.

7 – ARCHERY – Old Time Farm Day, Pres.

Carter Boyhood Farm. 229-824-4104.

7 – ATHENS – Indie Craftstravaganzaa, downtown. 706-549-5577.

7 – BLUE RIDGE – Georgia Mountain Classic Car Show, City Park. 706-838-4701.

7 – CARTERSVILLE – Archaeology Day & Iron Pour, Red Top Mt. St. Pk. 770-975-4226. Car Cruize 5-8 p.m. & Terrence Lonon Concert, 7-9 p.m., Friendship Plaza. 770-607-3480.

7 – DEARING – Dearing Mayfest. 706-5971000.

View Event Schedule & Times at: 7 – HELEN – Wurstfest, downtown, 706-878www.blessingofthefleet.com 1908. Winefest, Habersham Winery, 706-878-9463.

43rd Annual

H D April 1-3

Music • Car Show • Art In The Park Fireworks • Marine Parade Food Booths • Arts & Crafts Vendors

32

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Daylily Festival in Gray The Gray Station Better Hometown 8th Annual Daylily Festival will be held June 3-4 in the Pecan Orchard at Gray Elementary School, 273 Railroad St. The festival on Friday from 6-9 p.m. will feature a 5K road race, 1M fun run, live entertainment, food, and more.

Saturday events from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. will include over 100 arts and crafts vendors, chainsaw carving, continuous live entertainment, food, horseshoe tournament, children’s activities, pony rides, Teddy Bear walk for children at 11 a.m., and plenty of daylilies. An open car/truck/motorcycle show will be conducted by the Jones County Cruisers. Vendor applications can be found on the website.

A golf tournament will be co-sponsored with the Jones County / Gray Chamber of Commerce.

To participate, call 478-986-1123.

The Master Gardeners and Garden Clubs have planted daylilies at the schools and other places in the city and county including the library and the railroad track in honor of the City of Gray being the Daylily Capitol of Georgia. There will be daylilies to admire and purchase at the festival, and a Daylily Flower Show on Saturday in the Gray Elem. gym.

Admission will be $1 for all persons over 6 years old. For information, phone 478-986-5199, e-mail gsbht@windstream.net, or visit www.gsbht.com.

Dairy Festival in Eatonton The 52nd Annual Putnam County Dairy Festival will be held in Eatonton on Saturday, June 4. Activities will begin at 8 a.m. with the 33rd annual 10K Torture Trail Road Race & One Mile Fun Run. (706-485-9941). A parade at 10 a.m. will feature the Queen of the Dairy Festival and her court, Junior Miss Putnam County and her court, floats, antique cars, Shriners, dignitaries, clowns, and horses. A program at 11 a.m. will recognize the Putnam County Dairy Farm Fa m i l y of the year. The festival pays tribute to the MAY county’s dairy industry and is held on the 7 – SAVANNAH – Scottish Games, Bethesda streets surrounding the courthouse.

Home. 912-233-6017.

An Arts and Crafts Fair will be open from 7-8 – GAY – Cotton Pickin’ Fair. 800-5389 a.m.-5 p.m. and will feature arts, crafts, 6814. Shady Days in Gray. 706-977-8548. food, and children’s activities. The Pilot Club 7-8 – SNELLVILLE – Snellville Days Festival, will sell BBQ and stew from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Briscoe Park. 770-985-3535.

Free ice cream and milk along with an edu7-28 – DAHLONEGA – Appalachian Jam, cational dairy exhibit will be provided on the Gold Museum, Sat. 2-5 p.m. 706-864-2257.

Square, and entertainment featuring local 11-12 – SAUTEE – Celebrate the Arts artists will be held there from 12:30-4 p.m.

Festival, Arts Center. 706-878-3300.

For booth space contact Yvonne Harrell at 13 – THOMASVILLE – Friday at Noon 706-485-8112; Charlotte Green at 706-473Concert, Thomas University. 229-227-6964.

0336; or e-mail glendar@pceatonton.org. For 13-14 – BLAIRSVILLE – Butterfly Benefit information about the festival or an application Bluegrass Festival, Lake Nottely. 706-835-9230. to participate, visit www.pceatonton.org/dairy.

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 March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

33

MAY 14 – AUGUSTA – Symphony Orchestra Under Stars, Univ. Health Care. 706-826-4705.

14 – HELEN – White County Cork & Keg Festival, Festhalle. 800-392-8279.

14 – KINGSLAND – Talent on the Coast, Camden Co. H. S., 5:30-9 p.m. 800-433-0225.

14 – PINE MT. – Deep South Brass Band Festival, dntn. & Callaway Gdns. 706-663-5187.

14 – THOMSON – McDuffie Arts Council Arts in the Alley. 706-597-1000.

14-15 – BALL GROUND – Heritage Days Festival, downtown. 770-735-4263.

19-21 – KNOXVILLE – Georgia JugFest. 478836-3825.

20 – TYBEE ISLAND – Beach Bum Parade.

912-786-5444.

20-21 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Nest Fest & Turtle Crawl, Ga. Sea Turtle Ctr. 800-535-9547.

20-22 – HELEN – Southern Worthersee VW Audi Show. 706-878-2271.

20-22 – SAUTEE – Sautee Nacoochee Community Chorale Concerts. 706-878-3300.

21 – BIG CANOE – Tour of Homes. 706-6921164.

21 – BLAIRSVILLE – Arts & Crafts Festival, downtown. 706-994-4837.

21 – CLARKESVILLE – Mountain Laurel Festival. 706-754-4216.

34

21 – PLAINS – Pig Pickin’, dntn. 229-824-5373.

21 – SAUTEE – Taste of Sautee. 706-878-0144.

21 – THOMSON – Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival. 706-597-1000.

21-22 – DAHLONEGA – Mountain Flower Fine Art Festival, Square. 706-864-3513.

21-22 – HIAWASSEE – In-Water Boat Show, Ridges Marina. 706-896-2112.

21-22 – RESACA – Battle of Resaca Reenactment. 800-887-3811.

26 – ELLIJAY – Taste of Ellijay, Main Street, 5:30-8:30 p.m. 706-635-7400.

28-29 – DAHLONEGA – Pie Baking & Pie Tasting, Com. House, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 706-864-3513.

JUNE 3-4 – GRAY – Gray Station Better Hometown Daylily Festival, 478-986-5199.

4 – BYRON – Georgia Peach Festival. 478420-0072.

4 – EATONTON – Putnam County Dairy Festival, downtown. 706-473-0336.

7 – FORT VALLEY – Spaghetti & Jazz, Austin Theater, 5:30-8 p.m. 478-420-0072.

7-11 – FORT VALLEY – Georgia Peach Festival. 478-420-0072.

11-12 – BLAIRSVILLE – Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Meeks Park. 706-745-5789.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Garden and Nature Events Douglas Home & Garden Showcase The City of Douglas will be hosting its third annual Douglas Home & Garden Showcase March 11-12 at Central Square Complex. As part of the event, Master Sponsor Eicher’s Pro Vinyl & Roofing will give away a $500 cash prize to one lucky winner!

Burnham Stone will also sponsor a patio giveaway, and the first 500 attendees will receive a free bag of compost for gardening.

Showcase hours will be Friday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission will be $1.

The event will include exhibitors such as interior designers, landscapers, electricians, cabinetmakers, hardware and building supply stores, painters, paint and appliance retailers, home restorers, contractors, and other related businesses. Attendees can register to win door prizes.

This year’s Home & Garden Showcase will be sponsored by Eicher’s Pro Vinyl & Roofing, Watson’s Pools & Patios, Patten 1-31 – Orchid Daze, Atlanta Botanical Gdn. Seed Company, Burnham Stone, Douglas 2-April 13 – Ga. Master Gardener Training Metal Roofing & Steel Manufacturer, Miller Class, Blairsville Civic Ctr., Wed., 706-400-8139.

Pump & Electric, Hennesy Insurance Agency, 3-31 – Gardening with the Masters, and the City of Douglas. For more informaColumbus Botanical Garden, Thursdays, 10 a.m. tion, call 912-383-0277 or 912-384-4555 or 4-5 – Hellebore Days, Piccadilly Farms, email tourism@cityofdouglas.com.

Bishop. 706-769-6516.

5-6 – Orchid Market Weekend, Atlanta 19 – Georgia Daffodil Society Show, Botanical Garden.

Chattahoochee Nature Center.

5-26 – Okefenokee Hikes, Stephen Foster 19 – Astronomy Night at Unicoi State Park, State Park, Fargo, Saturdays. 912-637-5274.

Helen. 800-573-9659, x305.

6 – Organic Gardening: Herbs & Vege19-31 – Azalea Season at Callaway Gardens. tables, State Botanical Garden, 2 p.m.

22 – Container Gardening, Atlanta 11-12 – Douglas Home & Garden ShowBotanical Garden, 6:30 a.m. case, Central Square Complex. 912-383-0277.

22-31 – Atlanta Blooms With Bulbs, 11-13 – Orchid Society Show, Atlanta Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Botanical Garden.

24 – Herbal Lotions, Salves, & Lip Balms, 12 – Beekeeping for Beginners-Hive State Botanical Garden, 6 p.m.

Management, State Botanical Garden, 1 p.m.

24-27 – Savannah Tour of Homes & Gar12 – Stained Glass Art Workshop & Herdens, Downtown & Ardsley Park. 912-234-8054. baceous Plant Propagation, Callaway Gardens.

24-27 – Plant Fair & Sale Callaway Gardens.

12 – Sheep to Shawl Festival, Oatland Island.

12-13 – Chattahoochee Valley Camellia Show, Columbus Museum. 706-221-8193.

13 – Vanilla Sunday, Atl. Bot. Gdn., 1-4 p.m.

17 – Planning Your Summer Veggie Garden, Atlanta Botanical Garden, 6:30 p.m.

19 – 58th Annual Christ Church Tour of Homes, St. Simons Island. 912-638-8683.

March

GREAT GRIFFIN

MAYFLING

April 30-May 1 SATURDAY 10 A.M. - 6 P.M. SUNDAY 11 A.M. - 5 P.M.

GRIFFIN CITY PARK •Juried Arts & Crafts •Food •Entertainment •Children’s Activities •S.E. Reptile Rescue •Saturday Car Show

770-228-8200

www.griffinchamber.com – No Pets Please – March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

35

Garden and Nature Events Spring Home and Garden Show in Perry Join the Master Gardeners of Central Georgia at their annual Spring Home and Garden Show on April 2-3 at the Georgia National Fairground & Agricenter in Perry. The Show will feature knowledgeable Southeastern vendors offering a wide variety of plants, garden accessories, and home décor items.

Special attractions will include a book sighing by Vince Dooly, an art show and sale by Georgia artist Butler Brown, and a Koi and goldfish show in an adjoining building. There will be supervised activities for children while parents shop.

Show hours will be Saturday, April 2, from 9 a.m.6 p.m. and Sunday, April 3, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission will be $5 with children under 12 free. For vendor details and advance ticket information, visit www.mgcg.org or call 478-988-8344. From I-75 take Exit 135 East to the North entrance of the Georgia National Fairgrounds. Parking will be free and near the entrance to the McGill Building.

Master Gardeners of Central Georgia is a non-profit organization. Monies from the Show help fund Junior Master Gardener programs in public schools, educational programs for 26 – Historical Rock Hike, Tallulah Gorge home owners, and the Macon Museum of Arts State Park. 706-754-7981. & Sciences Native Plant Garden.

April

March 25-26 – 90th Annual Standard Flower Show, Thomasville Garden Ctr. 229-225-9711.

26 – Native Medicinal Plant Walk & Talk, State Botanical Garden, 10 a.m.

26 – Growing Bulbs, Atl. Bot. Gdn., 10 a.m.

26 – Heirloom Plants for Fragrance, Hills & Estates Estate.

26 – Spring Garden Festival, Bamboo Farm & Coastal Gardens.

26, Apr. 9 – Campfire, S’mores, Astronomy, Ga. Vet. State Park, Cordele. 229-276-2371.

26 – Go-pher a Carnival, Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah. 912-598-2300.

26 – Old-timer Couple in the Swamp, Stephen Foster St. Pk., Fargo. 912-637-5274.

1-3 – Koi Show & Sale, Georgia National Fairground, Perry. 478-922-5380.

1-10 – Orchid Daze, Atlanta Botanical Gdn. 1-30 – Azalea Season at Callaway Gardens.

1-May 1 – Atlanta Blooms with Bulbs, Atlanta Botanical Garden.

2-3 – Spring Home and Garden Show in Perry, Georgia Nat’l. Fairgrounds. 478-988-8344.

2-3 – Orchid Market Weekend, Atlanta Botanical Garden.

2-30 – Okefenokee Hikes, Stephen Foster State Park, Fargo, Saturdays. 912-637-5274.

7-28 – Gardening with the Masters, Columbus Botanical Garden, Thursdays, 10 a.m.

8 – Int’l. Migratory Bird Day, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. 912-496-7836.

April 29 & 30 www.gcofsavnogstour.org 912-961-4805 36 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

Garden and Nature Events Sacred Heart Garden Festival in Augusta The historic Sacred Heart Cultural Center in downtown Augusta will be the location for Southern gardening during the Garden Festival on April 17-May 1.

The Vendor Market will feature unusual plant materials, silver, fine linens, pottery, garden accessories, and floral designs. The “Tour of Gardens” on April 29-May 1 will feature six of the area’s finest private gardens each day from 12 -5 p.m. A Garden Tea will be April 17 at 4 p.m., and a Preview Party will be April 28 at 7 p.m.; reservations are required for both events. The Nola Falcone Speaker Series on April 26-27 will feature landscape architects Hugh and Mary Palmer Dargan and garden designer Ryan Gainey.

Festival hours will be Friday and Saturday, April 29-30, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, May 1, from 12-5 p.m. Festival tickets will be $25 and will include exhibits, vendor market, and private garden tours.

Children under 12 will be admitted free. Festival proceeds support the continuing 9 – Geology Day, Providence Canyon, preservation of Sacred Heart Cultural Center.

Lumpkin. 229-838-4706.

For information, phone 706-826-4700 or visit 9 – Spring Plant Sale, State Botanical Garden. www.SacredHeartGarden Festival.com.

9 – Wild Edibles; Geology/Wildflower Hikes.

Sweetwater St. Pk., Lithia Spgs. 770-732-5871.

9 – Topiary Wreath, Callaway Gdns, 9:30 a.m.

16 – Woodland Butterflies, Sweetwater 9 – Beekeeping for Beginners-Installing Creek State Park, Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871.

Bees, State Botanical Garden, 1 p.m.

16 – Pine Needle Basket, Callaway Gardens.

9 – Fairy & Gnome Homes Festival, Oatland 16-17 – Spring Wildflower Fest, Amicalola Island.

Falls State Park, Dawsonville. 706-265-1969.

15 – Bird House Contest, Burnt Mountain 16,30 – A Garden Faire, Bulloch Hall, Trading Company, 5-9 p.m. 706-253-6955.

Roswell. 770-992-1731.

15-16 – Decatur Garden Tour. 404-371-8262.

17-May 1 – Sacred Heart Cultural Center’s 15-16 – Savannah Garden Expo, Trustees Garden Festival, Augusta. 706-826-4700.

Garden. 912-233-7787.

23 – Wildflowers of Tallulah Gorge State 15-16 – Wildflowers Around Unicoi Sate Park, Tallulah Falls. 706-754-7981.

Park, Helen. 800-573-9659, x305.

26-27 – Nola Falcone Speaker Series, 16 – Plant Sale, Columbus Botanical Garden.

Sacred Heart Festival, Augusta. 706-826-4700.

16 – Piedmont Gardeners’ Garden Tour, 29 – Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Athens. 706-546-7346.

Callaway Gardens.

April

23rdual Ann

Perry

Dogwood Festival April 9 & 10

DOWNTOWN PERRY, GA Arts & Crafts •Food •Dogwood 5K Perry Idol •Softball Tournament Motorcycle Poker Run •Entertainment Pancake Breakfast •Dessert Contest Kids Rides •Children’s Activities

I- 75 Exit 136 www.perrydogwoodfestival.com

March 11 & 12 Friday 9 a.m.7 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m.3 p.m.

General Admission $1

Enter for a chance to win the Eicher's Pro Vinyl & Roofing $500 cash giveaway, the Burnham Stone Patio Set giveaway, and many other prizes!

Exhibits, Live Demonstrations, and Giveaways Sponsored by: • Eicher’s Pro Vinyl & Roofing • Watson’s Pools & Patios • Miller Pump & Electric • Douglas Metal Roofing & Steel Manufacturer • Patten Seed Company/Super-Sod • Burnham Stone • Hennesy Insurance • City of Douglas

Central Square Complex

200C South Madison Avenue, Douglas

912-384-4555 tourism@cityofdouglas.com

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

37

Garden and Nature Events Tour of Hidden Gardens in Savannah The Garden Club of Savannah will celebrate its 36th Annual NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens on April 29-30 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. The walking tour will include eight walled gardens and the OwensThomas House English inspired par-terre garden, on the US National Register of Historic Places. Different private gardens are selected each year for excellence of design, historical interest and beauty.

Walk through the iron gates and beyond the old gray brick walls to enjoy the hidden garden pleasures beneath hundred-year-old oaks. Hostesses at each garden will greet visitors and point out special plants, garden features, and interesting historical facts. Sparkling fountains, delightful statues, and the brilliant blooms of Savannah’s lovely springtime are treasures to be found in the manicured gardens.

An authentic Southern tea will be hosted from 2-4 p.m. at historic Harper Fowlkes Home and Garden each day of the tour. There will be delicious treats, refreshing iced tea, and live entertainment in the garden.

15 – Wild Foods, State Botanical Garden.

Proceeds from the tour are returned to the 21 – Wild Edibles, Sweetwater Creek State community through the educational, environPark, Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871. mental, and preservation projects of the 22 – JAKES Day, Smithgall Woods. 706-878Garden Club of Savannah. For more informa3087. tion, visit www.gcofsavnogstour.org or call 24 – Kitchen Cabinet Remedies, State 912-961-4805.

Botanical Garden, 6:30 p.m.

28 – Beekeeping for Beginners-Products from the Hive, State Botanical Garden, 1 p.m.

29-30 – Savannah Garden Club NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens. 912-961-4805.

29-30 – Blairsville Garden Club Plant Sale, 3-4 – Gray Station Better Hometown Farmers Market. 706-745-8901.

Daylily Festival. 478-986-5199.

29-May 1 – Tour of Gardens, Sacred Heart Festival, Augusta. 706-826-4700.

Garden & Nature Centers in Georgia 30 – Bird Walk; Star Gazing; Geocaching.

Mistletoe State Park, Appling. 706-541-0321.

• Atlanta Botanical Garden . . . . . . . . . . .404-876-5859

April

June

May 7 – Rockin’ at the River, Chattahoochee Nature Center.

7-28 – Okefenokee Hikes, Stephen Foster State Park, Fargo, Saturdays. 912-637-5274.

14 – Good Bugs & Plants They Love, Callaway Gardens, 10 a.m.

14-15 – Wings of Flight, Amicalola Falls State Park, Dawsonville. 706-265-1969.

14 – Wetland Plants, State Botanical Garden, 8:30 a.m.

14 – Family Picnic in the Gardens, Hills & Dales Estate, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Bamboo/Coastal Gdns., Savannah . . .912-921-5460 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 Elachee Nature Center, Gainesville . . .770-535-1976 GSU Botanical Gdn., Statesboro . . . . .912-871-1149 Hills & Dales Estate, LaGrange . . . . . .706-882-3242 Massee Lane, Fort Valley . . . . . . . . . . . .478-967-2358 Melon Bluff Nature Ctr., Midway . . . . . .888-246-8188 Oakland Island, Savannah . . . . . . . . . . .912-898-3980 Oxbow Meadows, Columbus . . . . . . . .706-687-4090 Phinizy Swamp Park, Augusta . . . . . . .706-828-2109 Smithgall Woods, Helen . . . . . . . . . . . . .706-878-3087 State Botanical Garden, Athens . . . . . .706-542-1244 Tybee Island Marine Center . . . . . . . . .912-786-5917

April 2 9-6

April 3 10-5

Vince Dooley Book Signing • Georgia Artist Butler Brown Koi & Goldfish Show • Garden Plant Vendors • Children’s Activities

I-75 @ Exit 135 • 478-988-8344 • www.mgcg.org

38

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2011

March / April / May 2011 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

39

Beginning April 15, a month-long Celebration of Arts in the city featuring music, drama, poetry, gardens, dining and dancing.

For more event details including dates: www.visitsandysprings.org • www.artsandysprings.org

866-511-7742 Taste of Sandy Springs May 2011 • 11a.m.-7 p.m.

Perimeter Town Center in Sandy Springs www.tasteofsandysprings.org