GGEORGIA uide To
Historic SAM Shortline Excursion Train
Events Attractions Fairs & Festivals
Summer 2015
P Theatre P Music P Dance P LEGACY THEATRE
ACT 1 THEATER Alpharetta, 770-663-8989, www.act1theater.com
July 17-Aug. 9
Once Upon A Mattress
ACTOR’S EXPRESS Atlanta, 404-607-show, www.actors-express.com
Thru June 14 July 8-Aug. 9
The Whale Rent
Tyrone, 770-306-3343, www.thelegacytheatre.org
July 10-Aug. 2
Footloose
MAIN STREET PLAYERS Griffin, 770-229-9916, www.mainstreetplayers.org
Thru June 7
Crimes of the Heart
NEW DEPOT PLAYERS Conyers, 678-374-3224, www.thenewdepotplayers.com
AGATHA’S Atlanta, 404-584-2211, www.agathas.com
Marvelouss Comics Presents: Galaxy Guardians of the Avenged (Call for dates.) ART STATION Stone Mountain, 770-469-1105, www.artstation.org
July 9-26
The Dixie Swim Club
ATHENS COMMUNITY THEATRE 706-548-3854, www.townandgownplayers.org
June 5-14 Aug. 7-16
Man of La Mancha By the Bog of Cats
ATLANTA LYRIC THEATRE Marietta, 404-377-9948, www.atlantalyrictheatre.com
June 12-28 July 17-19 Aug. 14-30
Barnum Cats Peter Pan
July 16-26
Greater Tuna
NEW AMERICAN SHAKESPEARE THEATRE TAVERN Atlanta, 404-874-5299, www.shakespearetavern.com
Thru June 14 June 16-July 12 July 17-Aug. 2 Aug. 7-23
Coriolanus As You Like It Midsummer Night’s Dream Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged)
NORTH GEORGIA COMMUNITY PLAYERS Dillard, 706-212-2500, www.ngcommunityplayers.com
June 22-25
Foxfire
PUMPHOUSE PLAYERS Cartersville
770-387-2610, www.pumphouseplayers.com
June 12-27
Wild Dust
ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 404-733-4900, www.atlantasymphony.org
June 4-6
Robert Spano/All Star Cast
BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER
ROME LITTLE THEATRE 706-295-7171, www.romelittletheatre.com
Thru June 7 July 17-26
Bleacher Bums Aladdin, Jr.
706,632-9223, www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com
July 9-26 Aug. 20-Sept. 6
Radio TBS A Night at the Theater
BRUNSWICK ACTORS THEATRE
SAVANNAH THEATRE 912-233-7764, www.savannahtheatre.com
Thru Nov. 21 Thru Nov. 22
Savannah Live! Jukebox!
912-262-0628, www.soglogallery.com
June 6-28 Aug. 8-30
Virgin Tears Faith County
CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS Atlanta, 404-873-3391, www.puppet.org
Thru June 7 June 11-July 26
The Ugly Duckling Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type July 28-Aug. 9 Reluctant Dragon Aug. 13-Sept. 20 Tortoise, Hare, Other Aesop’s Fables DALTON LITTLE THEATRE 706-226-6618, www.daltonlittletheatre.com
June 12-27 July 24-26
The 39 Steps Youth Ensemble Theatre
HABERSHAM COMMUNITY THEATRE Clarkesville, 706-839-1315, www.habershamtheater.org
June 12-21 Southern Hospitality July 30-Aug. 9 How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying
SERENBE PLAYHOUSE Chattahoochee Hills, 770-463-1110, www.serenbeplayhouse.com
May 29-Aug. 2 June 11-28 July 23-Aug. 16
The Secret Garden Street Car Named Desire Evita
SOUTHSIDE THEATRE GUILD Fairburn, 770-969-0956, www.stgplays.com
July 23-Aug. 9
Cabaret
SPRINGER OPERA HOUSE Columbus 706-324-5714, www.springeroperahouse.org
July 10-26
The Little Prince
STAGE DOOR PLAYERS Dunwoody, 770-396-1726, www.stagedoorplayers.net
Thru June 7 July 10-Aug. 2
Sylvia The Mystery of Edwin Drood
SWAMP GRAVY Colquitt, 229-758-5450, www.swampgravy.com
June 19-28
Into the Woods Junior
TATER PATCH PRODUCTIONS HENRY PLAYERS McDonough, 770-914-1474, www.henryplayers.com
June 25-28
A Little Princess
HISTORIC HOLLY THEATER Dahlonega, 706-864-3759, www.hollytheater.com
July 10-26
Footloose
Jasper, 770-547-1096, www.taterpatchplayers.org
July 17-Aug. 2 Aug. 8
Nunsense The Golden Knight–Live!
THOMASVILLE ON STAGE 229-226-0863, www.tosac.com
July 10-19
Grease
Due to our early deadlines,some events are not posted. Therefore,you might want to check websites for more information.
2
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2015
GGEORGIA uide To
Volume 55 Summer
Number 2 June/July/August 2015
CONTENTS Theatre & Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Metro Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-6 Garden & Nature Events . . . . . . . .7 Sporting Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 July 4th Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Entertainment Venues . . . . . .10-11 Train Rides/Museums/Depots .12-17 Summer Events in Georgia . . .18-23
ON THE COVER atching and riding trains and collecting railroadiana are popular pastimes. Georgia has a variety of depots, trains, museums, model train displays, and railroad festivals that enthusiasts can enjoy. Among these is the Historic SAM Shortline Excursion Train in Cordele, shown on the cover. For more information on train-related sites in Georgia, see feature section beginning on page 12.
W
GUIDE
TO
Warner Robins Convention & Visitors Bureau
GEORGIA
801 Nebula Rd., Manchester, GA 31816 Phone 706-846-2620 E-mail guidetogeorgia@windstream.net Patty Proctor . . . . . . . . .Publisher/Editor Debi Richardson . . . . . . .Graphics Editor 803-259-1990, debi@guidetogeorgia.com Hayley Yawn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ad Sales Johnny Craven . .Information Technologist Mike Norkus . . . . . . . . . . . . .Distribution 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.
Visit Us at “guidetoga”
99 Armed Forces Blvd., N Warner Robins, GA 31093
478-922-5100 • 888-288-9742 90 Minutes South of Atlanta I-75 Exits 144 & 146 www.facebook.com/ welcometowarnerrobins visit at http://www.warnerrobins visitorscenter.com/attractions.html
Visit the Museum of Aviation, Open Daily — Free Admission!
UPCOMING EVENTS:
EVERY THURSDAY!! The International City Farmer’s Market corner of Watson Blvd. & Maple St. – 1pm to Dusk July/Aug. – Little League S.E. Region Tournaments July 18 – Museum of Aviation Foundation Auction, Raffle and Taste of Local Cuisine, 6:30pm July 30-Aug 3 – Softball Little League S.E. Region Tourn. Aug. 7-13 – Baseball Little League S.E. Region Tournament Aug. 21-23 – Special Olympics State Masters Bowling Sept. 16-19 – Georgia Golden Olympics
June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
3
METRO ATLANTA Scott Antique Market in Atlanta The Scott Antique Market at the Atlanta Expo Centers, the world’s largest monthly indoor antique show, features two buildings stocked full of pretty much every antique imaginable. With 366,000 square feet to explore, and over 3,500 booths, plus outdoor shopping and even a courtyard of merchandise, it’s almost impossible to leave without finding exactly what you’re looking for, according to the show’s organizers. All things antique wind up at the Scott Antique Market – antique furniture, vintage hardware, rare art, stunning glassware, heirloom silver, incredible jewelry, and so much more. The Scott Antique Market, described as “America’s favorite treasure hunt,” always takes place the second weekend of every month at the Atlanta Expo Centers which straddle I-285 at Exit 55. Parking is free; admission is only $5; and a complimentary shuttle goes between both buildings. Show hours are Thursdays 12:45-6pm, Fridays & Saturdays 9am-6pm, and Sundays 10am-4pm. Upcoming shows will be June 11-14, July 9-12, August 6-9, and September 10-13. For a complete list of show dates and more information on Scott Antique Markets, call 740-569-2800 or visit www.scottantiquemarkets.com.
All Summer Events Thru June 7 – Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Saturdays & Sundays. 770-964-8575. Thru Aug. 2 – Six Flags Over Georgia Opens Daily. Weekends Aug. 8-Sept. 7. June 1-Aug. 2; Aug. 8, 15, 22, 29; Sept. 4-6 – Lasershow, Stone Mountain Park, 9pm. 770-498-5690. June 2-Aug. 27 – Music at Noon, Centennial Olympic Park, Tues. & Thurs., 12-1pm. 404-223-4412. June 3-24 – Wednesday WindDown, Centennial Olympic Park, 5:30-8pm. 404-223-4412. June 4, July 2, Aug. 6 – First Thursday Art Walk, Downtown Atlanta, 5-8pm. 404-658-1877. June 5-July 11 – Saturday Concerts, Dunwoody Nature Center. 770-394-3322. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – First Friday Art Walks, Roswell Historic District 6pm. 770-594-9511. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – Marietta Square Art Walk, 5-9pm. 470-899-3008. June 5-Aug. 28 – Martinis & IMAX, Fernbank, Fridays, 7-11pm. 404-929-6300. June 6, July 4, Aug. 1 – Roswell Riverside Parks Concerts, 7pm. 770-641-3705. June 6, July 11 – Smyrna Summer Concerts, Village Green, 7-10pm. Free. 770-434-6600. June 13-Aug. 2 – Summer at the Rock, Stone Mountain Park. 770-498-5690. June 18, July 16, Aug. 20 – Alive After Five and Alive at the Square, Roswell, 5-10pm. 770-640-3253 June 20, July 18, Aug. 15 – Movies by Moonlight, Taylor-Brawner Park, Smyrna, Free. 678-631-5541. June 26, July 31, Aug. 28 – Glover Park Concerts, Marietta Square, 8pm. 770-794-5601. June 27-28, July 25-26, Aug. 29-30 – Art in Old Milton Park, Alpharetta. 678-297-2811. July 16, Aug. 20 – Powder Springs Concerts, Square, 6-9pm. 770-943-1666.
REGENCY SUITES HOTEL 975 West Peachtree Street at 10th Street ATLANTA, GEORGIA All-suite hotel; Elegant kitchenettes; Luxurious continental breakfast; complimentary dinner (Mon.-Thurs.) Located two blocks from I-75/85, next to Midtown MARTA station. 404-876-5003 / 800-642-3629 www.regencysuites.com
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GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2015
METRO ATLANTA Georgia Celebrates Quilts in Woodstock The East Cobb Quilters’ Guild will present its 15th biennial quilt show, Georgia Celebrates Quilts,® on June 11-13 at His Hands Church, 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock. The show will be open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10am-6pm. Tickets will be $10 at the door. For information, visit www.ecqg.com or phone 770-948-5394. The centerpiece will be 350 quilts competing for thousands of dollars in prize money. The variety will be endless, ranging from exotic art quilts to traditional bed quilts in every size and color imaginable. The show has added categories for modern, new art, and pictorial quilts. Within each category, certified judges will evaluate design and technique. The Best of Show will be selected from among the quilts that won the categories. Vendors will offer a wide variety of wares, including fabric, sewing machines, notions, gifts, and more. The silent auction will feature small quilts and wall hangings made by Guild members, tote bags, purses, and fabric baskets with starting bids as low as $25. Crib size and larger quilts will also be available for purchase. Tiny quilts in the form of ready-to-mail postcards will be sold for only $5 each.
June 5-7 – Dixie Hwy. 90-Mile Yard Sale, Marietta to Ringgold. 770-387-1357. 6 – Brew Moon Summerfest, Downtown Alpharetta, 6:30-11pm. 678-297-2811. 6-7 – Locomotive Days, Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013. 6-7 – Virginia Highland Summerfest. 404874-2084. 11 – Ice Cream Trucks at Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013. 11-13 – East Cobb Quilters’ Guild Presents “Georgia Celebrates Quilts,” His Hands Church, Woodstock. 770-948-5394. 11-14 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. 11-14 – Juneteenth Celebration, Cyclorama & Grant Park. 404-624-0697. 13 – Roswell Lavender Festival, Barrington Hall Grounds, 10am-5pm. 770-640-3855. 13 – Tunes from the Tombs, Historic Oakland Cemetery, 1-8pm. 404-688-2107. 13-14 – Peachtree Corners Festival, Corners Parkway. 678-492-6114. 14 – June Singing of Sacred Harp, Alpharetta City Hall, 10am-3pm. 678-297-2811. 14 – Banks & Shane Concert & BBQ, Chukkar Farm, Alpharetta, 4pm. 770-642-9185.
right train Tofhethought can take you to a better station in life. For as he thinks within himself, so he is.
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15 – Kenny Chesney, Eric Church, Georgia Dome. 404-223-8200. 19 – Beach Party, Decatur Square, 5-11pm. 404-270-4100. 20 – Atlanta Green Festival, Grant Park. 678-379-8370. 20 – Hot 107.9 Birthday Bash Block Party, Centennial Olympic Park. 404-223-4412. 21 – Father’s Day Car Show, Stone Mountain Park. 800-401-2407. 27-28 – Old Fourth Ward Park Arts Festival. 404-873-1222.
July (See page 9 for Independence Day events.) 9-12 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. PEACH STATE DEPRESSION GLASS CLUB 39th Annual
COLLECTIBLE GLASS SHOW & SALE July 25 & 26 Saturday 10AM-5PM Sunday 10AM-4PM
JIM MILLER PARK, BLDGS. A & B
MARIETTA, GA
Featuring 28 National Dealers American glass, pottery, kitchenware, and china of the 1880’s–1970’s
DOOR PRIZES •GLASS REPAIR •FREE PARKING •SCAVENGER HUNT FREE GLASS IDENTIFICATION (LIMIT 3 PIECES) $6 per person (cash)/good for both days
P R O V E R B S 2 3 : 7 NASB
Contact: psdgclub.showchair@gmail.com
GOD’S LITTLE INSTRUCTION BOOK Honor Books, Inc., Tulsa, OK
www.psdgc.com
June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
5
METRO ATLANTA Collectible Glass Show & Sale in Marietta The Peach State Depression Glass Club will celebrate the 39th anniversary of its Annual Collectible Glass Show and Sale at the Jim Miller Park, Cobb County Fairgrounds, in Marietta on July 25-26. Show hours will be Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. This juried show is for anyone interested in American glass from the novice to the advance collector. There will be 28 top dealers from across the nation. Booths will be filled with glass, pottery, kitchenware, and china from the 1880’s to the 1970’s with an emphasis on Depression Era and Elegant Glass. You can find glass from major glass manufacturers; vintage pottery from Roseville, Hull, and others; and kitchenware such as Pyrex, Fiesta, Fire King, and Jadeite. The theme will be “A Carnival of Glass,” and club members will display some of their rare and favorite pieces. Visitors may have up to three pieces of glass or pottery identified at no charge and take chipped glass for repair to John Forrester’s shop. There will be door prizes. Saturday will include a scavenger hunt and door prize for ages 5-16 (accompanied by adult). Admission will be $6/ person, cash only, good both days. For information, e-mail psdgclub.showchair@gmail.com or visit www.psdgc.com.
July 18-19 – Civil War Living History Weekend, Barrington Hall, Roswell. 770-640-3855. 18-19 – Atlanta’s Exotic Bird Fair, North Atlanta Trade Center. 770-279-9899. 18-26 – Downtown Atlanta Restaurant Week. 404-658-1877. 25 – Atlanta Ice Cream Festival, Piedmont Park. 404-875-7275. 25 – Buy Christmas Decorations to Restore Hembree Farm, Roswell. 770-992-1665. 25-26 – Peach State Depression Glass Club Presents Collectible Glass Show & Sale, Miller Park, Marietta. www.psdgc.com. 26 – Chattahoochee River Summer Splash & Festival, Sandy Springs. 770-206-1447. 30-31 – Fayette Film Festival, Starrs Mill Auditorium, Fayetteville. 404-798-4302.
August 1 – Smyrna Birthday Celebration, Village Green, 6-10pm. 770-434-6600. 1 – Old Soldiers Day Parade (9am) and
6
Road Race (7am), Alpharetta. 678-297-6048. 1-2 – Trains, Trucks, Tractors, Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013. 6-9 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. 14-16 – Piedmont Park Summer Arts & Crafts Festival. 404-875-7275. 15 – BBQ, Blues, & Bluegrass, Harmony Park in Oakhurst, Decatur, 12-8pm. 404-370-4100. 21-22 – Kennesaw’s Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival, Adams Park. 770-422-9714. 22 – Touch a Truck, Wills Park, Alpharetta, 10am-2pm. 678-297-6133. 29 — Push Rods Car Show, Powder Springs Town Square. 770-943-1666. 29 – Acworth Classic Car Cruise, Downtown, 4-9pm. 770-917-1234. 29-30 – Grant Park Summer Shade Festival. 678-560-2466.
September 10-13 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000.
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2015
Garden and Nature Events Discover the Children’s Garden at Massee Lane Gardens Surprises bloom in living color all summer in the Avera-Peterson Children’s Garden of Discovery at Massee Lane Gardens. Free nature scavenger hunts are available to help children explore the garden’s camellia maze, goldfish pond, and time garden’s living sundial. Families will enjoy exploring the butterfly garden and wandering among towering hibiscus blooms, “scratch and sniff” herbs, and tropical fruit trees. Comfortable bench swings are shaded with jasmine draped pergolas where parents can relax while children play. A screened pavilion overlooking the bog garden and pond is the perfect place for viewing wildlife or enjoying a picnic. An International Garden of Excellence and the headquarters of the American Camellia Society, Massee Lane features a collection of gardens and two galleries showcasing the largest collection of Edward Marshall Boehm porcelains on public display in the United States. The gardens are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 to 4:30 and Sunday from 1 to 4:30. Guided tours and field trips are available for groups of ten or more. Leashed pets are welcome. Visit www.americancamellias.org for directions or call 877-422-6355 or 478-967-2358.
All Summer Thru Oct. 3 – Bruce Munro: Light, Wed.Sun., 6-11pm., Atlanta Botanical Garden. June, July, August – Organ Concerts, Callaway Gardens, 800-callaway. Check for dates. June 26-Sept. 12 – Sunset Concerts, Callaway Gardens Beach, Fridays.
15 – Butterfly Festival, Dunwoody Nature Center. 770-394-3322. 15 – Design with Salvage, State Bot. Garden. 22 – Gold Fever, Smithgall Woods, 9am-12pm.
June
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
June – Rare summer blooming “Camellia Azalea,” Crepe Myrtles, Day Lilies, Hydrangeas, Hibiscus, Azaleas, irises, carnivorous plants, Rose Garden, and Native Wildflowers in bloom at Massee Lane Gardens, Fort Valley. 6-7 – Flying Butterfly Festival, Chattahoochee Nature Center. 13 – A Chorus of Frogs, Birdsong Nature Center, 6:30-9pm. 18-20 – McCorkles Plant Sale, Dearing. 706-595-6052. 26 – 38 Special/Sam Koon, Callaway Gdns. 27 – Great American Backyard Campout, Chattahoochee Nature Center.
July
Garden & Nature Centers in Georgia Ashantilly Center, Darien . . . . . . . . . .912-437-4473 Atlanta Botanical Garden . . . . . . . . . .404-876-5859 Bamboo/Coastal Gdns., Savannah . .912-921-5460 Barrington Hall, Roswell . . . . . . . . . .770-640-3855 Birdsong Nature Ctr., Thomasville . . .800-953-bird Callaway Gardens, Pine Mt. . . . . . . . .800-Callaway Chattahoochee Nat. Ctr., Roswell . . .770-992-2055 Columbus Botanical Garden . . . . . . .706-327-8400 Elachee Nature Center, Gainesville .770-535-1976 Flint RiverQuarium, Albany . . . . . . . .229-639-2650 Gibbs Gardens, Ball Ground . . . . . . .770-893-1881 GSU Botanical Gdn., Statesboro . . . .912-871-1149 Hills & Dales Estate, LaGrange . . . . .706-882-3242 Massee Lane, Fort Valley . . . . . . . . . .478-967-2358 Oakland Island, Savannah . . . . . . . . .912-898-3980 Oxbow Meadows, Columbus . . . . . . .706-687-4090 Smithgall Woods, Helen . . . . . . . . . . .706-878-3087 State Botanical Garden, Athens . . . .706-542-1244 Tybee Island Marine Center . . . . . . . .912-786-5917
July – Crepe Myrtles, Day Lilies, Hydrangeas, Hibiscus, tropical fruit trees, irises, Azaleas, and Native Wildflowers are in bloom at Massee Lane Gardens, Fort Valley. 18 – Where Do Hummingbirds Hide? at State Botanical Garden. 25 – Georgia State Astronomy Observatory Open Houses, Rutledge. 706-557-3001.
August August – Crepe Myrtles, Day Lilies, Hydrangeas, Hibiscus, Azaleas, Confederate Roses, and Native Wildflowers in bloom at Massee Lane Gardens, Fort Valley. 6-8 – Community Flower Show, Blairsville Farmers’ Market. 706-897-5348. 13 – Perseids Shooting Star Party, Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge. 706-557-3001. June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Sporting Events BIKING
RACING
June 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Century Bike Ride Dellinger Park, Cartersville, 770-382-5500 July 12 . . . GA 400 Hospitality Bike Ride, Kings Mkt. Shopping Ctr., Roswell, 678-520-7337
ROAD ATLANTA
MISCELLANEOUS June 6,20, July 11, Aug. 1,9 . . Vintage Baseball 6th Calvary Museum, Fort Oglethorpe 706-861-2860 June 13 . . . . Columbus Lions v. Trenton Indoor Football, Columbus Civic Ctr., 706-322-3336 June 21-22 . . . . . . . Fly Fishing School, Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, 855-923-7943 July 31-Aug. 2 . . . . . . . Buckarama, Atlanta Expo Centers, Jonesboro, 740-569-2800 Aug. 22 . . . . . Tightrope Lessons, Tallulah Gorge St. Pk., Tallulah Falls, 6:30pm, 706-754-7981
WATERSPORTS June 13 . . . Back to Chattahoochee River Race & Festival, Garrad Landing to Riverside Park in Roswell, 404-352-9828 July 25 . . . . . . . . Chattahoochee River Summer Splash, Sandy Springs, 770-206-1447
Braselton, 800-849-race, www.roadatlanta.com June 19-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WERA Cycle Jam July 25-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SCCA Double SARRC July 31-Aug. 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NASA Sept. 11-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WERA National Atlanta Motor Speedway . . . . . . . . . . . Hampton 770-946-4211, atlantamotorspeedway.com
Atlanta Dragway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Commerce
770-682-3782, www.atlantadragway.com
Oglethorpe Speedway Park . . . . . . . . . . . Pooler
912-964-8200, www.ospracing.net
Silver Dollar Raceway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reynolds
478-847-4414, silverdollarraceway.com
Toccoa Motor Speedway (thru Oct.) . . . . . Toccoa
706-491-4493, www.toccoaraceway.com
Equestrian/Livestock June 12-13 . . . . . Philips Ranch Championship Rodeo, Resaca, 800-877-3811 July 10-11 . . . . . . Chas. Davis Memorial PRCA Rodeo, Ringgold, 423-903-9721 Aug. 1. . . . . . . . Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Ga. Int’l. Horse Park, Conyers, 678-428-7889 Aug. 14-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kiwanis Rodeo Blue Ridge, 706-632-6644
BASEBALL ATLANTA BRAVES June 5-7 . . . . . . . . . . .PIRATES June 8-11 . . . . . . . . . .PADRES June 17-18 . . . . . . . .RED SOX June 19-21 . . . . . . . . . . .METS June 30-July 2 . . .NATIONALS July 3-5 . . . . . . . . . . .PHILLIES July 17-19 . . . . . . . . . . .CUBS July 20-22 . . . . . . . .DODGERS Aug. 3-5 . . . . . . . . . . .GIANTS Aug. 6-9 . . . . . . . . .MARLINS Aug. 14-16 . . . . . . . .D’BACKS Aug. 24-26 . . . . . . . .ROCKIES Aug. 28-30 . . . . . . . .YANKEES Aug. 31-Sept. 2 . . . .MARLINS 404-577-9100 www.atlantabraves.com
Home Schedules AUGUSTA GREENJACKETS June 4-7 . . . . . . . .LEXINGTON June 16-18 . . . . .LEXINGTON June 19-21 . . . . .SAVANNAH July 4-7 . . . . . . .KANNAPOLIS July 8-12 . . . . . . . . . . . .ROME July 22-24 . . . . . .GREENVILLE July 25-28 . . . . . .DELMARVA Aug. 6-9 . . . . . . . . . . . .ROME Aug. 11-13 . . .HAGERSTOWN Aug. 17-19 . . . . .SAVANNAH Aug. 25-28 . . . .W. VIRGINIA Sept. 3-7 . . . . . .CHARLESTON 706-736-7889 greenjacketsbaseball.com
BASEBALL/SOFTBALL WARNER ROBINS July 30-Aug. 3 . .Softball Little League S.E. Region Tournament Aug. 7-13 . . . . .Baseball Little League S.E. Region Tournament 478-922-5100, www.warnerrobinsvisitorcenter.com
OLYMPICS WARNER ROBINS Aug. 21-23 . . . . . . . . . .Special Olympics State Masters Bowling Sept. 16-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Georgia Golden Olympics 478-922-5100, www.warnerrobinsvisitorcenter.com
8
ROME BRAVES June 1-3 . . . . . . . .LEXINGTON June 4-7 . . . . . . .W. VIRGINIA June 16-18 . . . . . . . .HICKORY June 25-28 . . . . . . .AUGUSTA June 30-July 3 . . .LEXINGTON July 14-16 . . . .CHARLESTON July 17-20 . . . . .LAKEWOOD July 30-Aug. 2 . . . .AUGUSTA Aug. 3-5 . . . . . . .SAVANNAH Aug. 14-16 . . . . .LEXINGTON Aug. 20-23 . . . . . .ASHEVILLE Aug. 29-Sept. 2 . .GREENVILLE 706-378-5144 www.romebraves.com
SAVANNAH SAND GNATS June 4-7 . . . . . . .GREENVILLE June 16-18 . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE June 25-29 . . . . .LEXINGTON June 30-July 3 . . . .AUGUSTA July 14-16 . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE July 17-20 . . . .CHARLESTON July 30-Aug. 2 . . . .ASHEVILLE Aug. 11-13 . . . . . . . . . .ROME Aug. 14-16 . . . . .GREENVILLE Aug. 20-23 . .KANNAPOLISH Aug. 29-Dept. 2 . . .AUGUSTA 912-351-9150 www.sandgnats.com
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2015
4th of July Celebrations Country Superstar Darius Rucker to Perform at Warner Robins Independence Day Concert Country superstar Darius Rucker will headline the Jeff Smith Automotive Independence Day Celebration in Warner Robins on July 3. The event will be held at the Museum of Aviation. Parking will be across the street in the grass field in front of Anchor Glass. Parking access will begin at 4pm, and museum gates will open at 6pm. No coolers, alcohol, or pets will be permitted inside the event. Chairs and blankets are recommended. Fireworks presented by International City Builders will follow the concert. For information, visit www.warnerrobinsvisitorscenter.com or phone 478-922-5100 or 888-288-9742 or visit facebook.com/celebrate.robins. JUNE 27 – KENNESAW – Star-Spangled Concert & Fireworks Show, KSU, 5pm. 770-423-6650. 27 – SOCIAL CIRCLE – Independence Day Celebration. 770-464-2380. 27 – ST. MARYS – America’s Birthday Train Ride on St. Marys Railroad. 912-200-5235. 27 – THE ROCK – Celebrate American, The Rock Ranch. 706-647-6374. 28 – PERRY – Independence Day Parade & Fireworks, 6-9pm. 478-988-8000. 28 – TOCCOA – D-Day Run & Events, Currahee Military Museum. 706-886-8614. JULY 2-5 – STONE MOUNTAIN PARK – Fantastic Fourth Celebration. 770-498-5690. 3 – DARIEN – Red, White, & Blue on the Bluff, Waterfront Park. 912-437-4837. 3 – MADISON – Independence Day Picnic & Free Concert, Cultural Center, 7pm. 706-342-4743. 3 – MANCHESTER – Celebration & Fireworks, Old Mill, 11am-10:30pm. 706-846-3141. 3 – McCAYSVILLE – Fireworks. 706-632-5680. 3 – RICHMOND HILL – 4th of July Celebration, Gregory Park. 912-756-2676. 3 – TYBEE ISLAND – Independence Day Fireworks, Pier, 9pm. 912-786-5444. 3 – WARNER ROBINS – Independence Day Celebration with Darius Rucker, Museum of Aviation, 6pm. 478-929-1111. 3-5 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – 4th of July Sunshine Festival/Arts & Crafts Show. 800-933-2627. 4 – ACWORTH – 4th of July Celebration, Cauble Park, 4pm. 770-917-1234. 4 – ALPHARETTA – July 4th Fireworks & Festivities, Wills Park, 6-9pm. 678-827-6133. 4 – ATLANTA – July 4th Celebration, Centennial Olympic Park. 404-223-4412. July 4th Festivities, Lenox Mall. 404-223-6767. Peachtree Road Race. 4 – BLAIRSVILLE – Fireworks, Meeks Park, 9:30pm. 706-745-5789. Independence Day at Vogel State Pk. 706-745-2628. Lake Nottely Independence Day Boat Parade, Marina, 11am. 706-745-3638. 4 – BLUE RIDGE – Fireworks, Lake Blue Ridge Marina, 3pm. 706-632-2618. Fourth of July Day Parade, 10am. 706-258-2750. 4 – BRUNSWICK – Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration, Mary Ross Park, 7pm. 912-262-6934. 4 – CALHOUN – Star Spangled 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks. 800-887-3811. 4 – CARTERSVILLE – Fireworks Hike, Pine Mountain Recreation Area, 8:15pm. Stars, Stripes, & Fireworks, Dellinger Park. 800-733-2280. 4 – CRAWFORDVILLE – Old Fashion Independence Day Celebration, Stephens St. Pk. 706-456-2602.
4 – DARIEN – Cannons Across the Marsh, Fort King George. 912-437-4770. 4 – DECATUR – Pied Piper Parade 6pm, Concert 7pm, Fireworks 9pm. Dwntwn. 404-371-8386. 4 – DEMOREST – Glorious Fourth, City Park. 800-835-2559. 4 – DOUGLAS – July 4th Freedom Fest, Adams Municipal Park. 912-381-2441. 912-384-1616. 4 – DULUTH – Independence Day Celebration, Southeastern Railway Museum. 770-476-2013. 4 – DUNWOODY – Parade, 9am. 770-354-7653. 4 – ELLIJAY – Independence Day Parade & Fireworks, 6pm. 706-635-4711. 4 – FAIRMOUNT – Celebration. 800-877-3811. 4 – FITZGERALD – Independence Day Celebration, Paulk Park. 800-386-4642. 4 – GRIFFIN – Independence Day Celebration, City Park, 7pm. 770-229-6400. 4 – HELEN – Fireworks. 706-878-2181. July 4th Wild America Tours, North Ga. Zoo. 706-348-7279. 4 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Independence Day Celebration, Grand Dunes Park, 9pm. 912-635-3636. 4 – JULIETTE – Ol’ Time Independence Day at Jarrell Plantation. 278-986-5172. 4 – KENNESAW – Salute to America, Downtown, 6-10pm. 770-422-9714. 4 – MARIETTA – 4th of July Celebration, Square, 10am-dark. 770-794-5601. 4 – MIDWAY – Independence Day Colonial Faire, Ft. Morris. 912-884-5999. 4 – NEWNAN – Parade, 9am. 770-253-8283. 4 – OMAHA – Fourth of July Celebration, Florence Marina State Park. 229-838-4706. 4 – PINE MOUNTAIN – Star-Spangled Beach Party, Callaway Gardens. 800-callaway. Liberty Bell Pool Party, FDR State Park, 1-3pm. 706-663-4858. 4 – POWDER SPRINGS – Independence Day Celebration, Town Square, 4-10pm. 770-423-1330. 4 – RICHMOND HILL – Independence Day Celebration, Ft. McAllister State Park. 912-727-2339. 4 – ROSWELL – BBQ & Bluegrass, Barrington Hall, 11am-5pm. 770-640-3855. 4 – SAVANNAH – River Street 4th of July Celebration, 4-10pm. 912-234-0295. 4 – ST. MARYS – Independence Day Festival & Parade, Downtown. 912-882-4239. America’s Birthday Train Ride. 912-200-5235. 4 – THOMASVILLE – July 4th Celebration, 6:309:30pm. 229-227-7020. 4 – WAYCROSS – Independence Day Fun, Walker State Park. 912-287-4900. 5 – LINCOLNTON – Fireworks Show, Clark Hill Lake. 706-359-4444. 5 – SANDY SPRINGS – Stars and Stripes Celebration, Concourse Corp. Ctr. 770-206-1447.
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Entertainment Venues in Georgia AARON’S AMPHITHEATRE at Lakewood
Atlanta, 404-627-9704, www.aaronsamphitheatre.net June 5 Train, The Fray, Matt Nathanson June 14 Lana Del Ray June 28 Def Leppard, Styx, Tesia July 2 Vans Warped Tour July 17 Fall Out Boy, Wiz Khalifa, Hootie Allen July 18 Lady Antebllum, Hunter Hayes, Sam Hunt July 19 Kid Rock & Foreigner July 25 Smashing Pumpkins & Marilyn Manson July 26 Slipknot, Lamb of God, Bullet for My Valentine July 30 Toby Keith, Eli Young Band July 31 Phish Aug. 2 Nicki Minaj, Meek Hill, Rae Sremmurd Aug. 4 Chicago-The Band & Earth, Wind, & Fire Aug. 5 5 Seconds of Summer
ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN
404-876-5859, www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org June 20 Josh Turner July 23 Smashmouth, Toad the Wet Sprocket, Tonic July 24 The Beach Boys Aug. 7 Colbie Caillat Aug. 21 John Hiatt/Combo, Taj Mahal Trio
ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN/GAINESVILLE
404-876-5859, www.atlantabg.org June 13 Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell July 11 The Temptations July 17 Scott McCreery
AUGUSTA ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
706-722-3521, www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com June 4 Jay Leno June 10 Sesame Street Live June 14 Kevin Hart ‘What Now? Tour’ June 20 John Mellencamp Aug. 1 K. Michelle & Future Aug. 9 Disney Live! 3 Classic Fairytales
CALLANWOLDE
Atlanta, 404-872-5338, www.callanwolde.org June 12 Jazz on Lawn/Ted Howe, Karla Harris June 26 Jazz on Lawn/Joe Gransden July 10 Jazz on Lawn/Richard Smith July 23 A Book Affair July 24 Jazz on Lawn/Theresa Hightower Aug. 7 Jazz on Lawn/Gwen Hughes
CHASTAIN PARK
Atlanta, 888-292-8495, www.chastaintickets.com June 4 Third Eye Blind, Dashboard Confessional June 5 Lou Gramm June 6 Maze, Frankie Beverly, Brian McKnight June 12 Blackstreet, Tony! Toni! Tone!, SWV, Next June 20 Weird Al Yankovic June 23 Derek & Julianne Hough June 26 Indigo Girls July 10 Daryl Hall & John Oates July 21 Rob Thomas July 24 Idina Menzel July 25 Keith Sweat, After 7, Troop, Shai July 29 Tony Bennett, Lady GaGa Aug. 8 The Piano Guys Aug. 9 Steely Dan, Elvis Costello, The Imposters Aug. 14 Gipsy Kings Aug. 15 Sunset Jazz Festival Aug. 16 Jim Gaffigan Aug. 21 Lyle Lovett & His Large Band Aug. 22 Air Supply Aug. 26 Under Sun, Sugar Ray, Better Than Ezra, Uncle Kracker Aug. 28 Boyz II Men & Bell Biv DeVoe Aug. 29 Rick Springfield, Loverboy, The Romantics
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COBB ENERGY CENTRE
Atlanta, 770-916-2800, www.cobbenergycentre.com Lee Seung Chui June 9 June 20 Anderson Cooper & Andy Cohen June 26 Natalie Cole July 20 Fifth Harmony July 24 Dave Koz, Rick Braun, Kenny Lattimore
COBB GALLERIA CENTRE
Atlanta, 770-955-8000, www.cobbgalleria.com June 5-7 Blade Show & Cutlery Fair June 18-20 Battle of Atlanta World Karate Champ. July 23-25 S. E. Homeschool Expo Georgia Bridal Show Aug. 2
COLUMBUS CIVIC CENTER
706-494-8330, www.columbusciviccenter.org June 20 Denim & Diamonds/Scotty McCreery, Charlie Worsham June 21 Charlie Wilson, Kem, Joe Forever
FOX THEATRE
Atlanta, 404-881-2100, www.foxtheatre.org June 26 Brian Wilson, Ridriguez July 11 Anthony Bourdain Aug. 7-8 My Morning Jacket Aug. 12 Cultural Club Aug. 18-23 Motown the Musical
FREDERICK BROWN, JR. AMPHITHEATER
Peachtree City, 770-631-0630, ww.amphitheater.org June 6 Al Jarreau June 13 Michael McDonald June 19 Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood June 26 Brass Transit: Chicago Tribute July 3 MJ Live: #1 Michael Jackson Tribute in World July 11 KC & Sunshine Band July 24 Queen Nation: Queen Tribute Aug. 15 Peter Frampton & Cheap Trick
GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FAIRGROUNDS
Hiawassee, 706-896-4191, www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com June 4-7 Greater Atlanta British Motorcycle June 12-13 Appalachian Wind, Jazz, & Art Festival July 4 4th of July Fireworks July 17-25 Georgia Mountain Fair Aug. 1 Ray Stevens July 30-Aug. 1 Georgia Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In
GEORGIA WORLD CONGRESS CENTER
Atlanta, 404-223-4000, www.gwcc.com June 13-14 Southern Pole Championships June 14 Your Wedding Experience June 20 College Expo June 25 All Veterans Job Fair June 26-27 World Fitness Expo July 2-3 Peachtree Health & Fitness Expo July 11 Ga. Bodybuilding/Figure Championship
GWINNETT CENTER
Duluth, 800-224-6422, www.gwinnettcenter.com June 2 Jimmy Buffett & Coral Reefer Band June 4 Barry Manilow June 6 Third Day & Friends June 13 Cheech & Chong, War June 13 Home by Dark, JP Williams, James David Carter June 14 Georgia Bridal Show June 18 Romeo Santos July 10 LFL: Atlanta Steam July 24-25 Annie Get Your Gun July 24-26 Outdoor Blast July 29-Aug. 2 Cirque du Soleil/Varekai July 31-Aug. 2 Int’l. Film Festival Aug. 13-15 Joyce Meyer Ministries
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2015
Entertainment Venues in Georgia HERITAGE SANDY SPRINGS
404-851-9111, www.heritagesandysprings.org Concerts by the Springs: June 14 Drive Time Band July 12 The Tams Aug. 2 The Return (Beatles Tribute) Sept. 6 Banks & Shane Rhythm & Brews: June 25 Gareth Asher & Earthlings Underhill Rose July 23 Cigar Store Indians Aug. 13 Movin’ Groovin’ Mornings: (Ages 3-10) June 11, 18, 25, July 2 Farmers’ Markets: Saturday Mornings
LUCAS THEATRE
Savannah, 912-525-5040, www.lucastheatre.com June 6 Alice in Wonderland June 12 1964 the Tribute
MABLE HOUSE AMPHITHEATER
Mableton, 770-819-7765, www.mablehouse.org June 13 Black Music Month Tribute Concert June 20 Wasted Potential Brass Band July 3 Linked UP Church/Night of Freedom July 11 Brian Simpson, Peaby Bryson, Kim Waters Aug. 15 Street Choir
MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER
Madison, 877-233-0598, www.mmcc-arts.org June 7 Musical Grand Tour of Europe June 14 Golden Quartet Music of Ages June 13 Taste of Flamenco (AM); Entre Flamenco, 8pm
MILLER PARK
Marietta, 770-528-8875, www.cobbcountyga.gov June 6 Atlanta Radio Club Hamfest June 19-20, Aug. 21-22 Cobb Co. Classic Rodeo June 27 Car & Bike Show; Dauschund Races July 11 Atlanta Food Festival July 25-26 Peach St. Depression Glass Club Show/Sale Aug. 6-8 All 4 Kids Consignment Sale Aug. 14 North Georgia Relic Club Sept. 5 Celebrate Freedom
PHILIPS ARENA
Atlanta, 404-878-3000, www.philipsarena.com June 6 New Kids on Block, TLC, Nelly June 12 Kevin Hart June 20 Hot 107.9 Birthday Bash 20 June 27 Mana July 13 WWE Raw July 14 Imagine Dragons Aug. 1 Shania Twain Aug. 21-22 Luke Bryan Aug. 30 Motley Crue Sept. 2 Madonna
RIVERCENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS Columbus, 706-256-3612, www.rivercenter.org June 6 Rat Pack is Back June 17-20 Miss Georgia Pageant June 28 Hair & Barber Battle July 18 Rickey Smiley
ROSWELL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
770-594-6232, www.roswellgov.com June 13 Shawn Mullins Roswell Summer Puppet Series: June 1-6 Peter & the Wolf; Frog Prince June 8-13 True Story of Three Little Pigs June 15-20 Sleeping Beauty June 22-27 Billy Goats Gruff June 29-July 3 Princess & the Pea July 6-11 Animalia July 13-18 Emperor’s New Clothes
SAVANNAH CIVIC CENTER 800-351-7469, www.savannahcivic.com Earth Wind & Fire June 7 June 12 Casting Crowns June 13 Maze/Frankie Beverly June 16 Sesame Street Live: Make A New Friend June 19 John Mellencamp Aug. 7 Disney Live! 3 Classic Fairy Tales
SOUTHERN GROUND AMPHITHEATER Fayetteville, 770-719-4173, southerngroundamp.com June 6 Chuck Negron (from 3 Dog Night) June 27 38 Special Four Tops July 11 July 25 Blood, Sweat, Tears (Bo BIce) Wynonna & Big Noise Aug. 8
STRAND THEATRE Marietta, 770-293-0080, www.earlsmithstrand.org June 6 The Sock Hop June 19-28 Legally Blonde, Jr. July 3-26 The Motown Sound Aug. 14-16 Lewis Grizzard: In His Own Words
TERRACES AMPHITHEATER Big Canoe Chapel 706-579-5099, www.bigcanoechapel.org June 13 Blackwater Magic July 3 Conner Lorre & Band July 25 Grapevine Band Aug. 15 Soul Purpose Band
VARIETY PLAYHOUSE Atlanta, 404-524-7354, www.variety-playhouse.com June 12-13 Tommy Emmanuel, Wisher-keepers June 19 The Weepies, Carsle Blanton June 28 Ottmar Liebert, Luna Negra July 5 World Party July 20 Lord Huron, Widowspeak July 29 KMFDM Aug. 6 Dark Star Orchestra
VERIZON WIRELESS AMPHITHEATRE Atlanta, 404-733-5010, www.vzwamp.com June 6 Southern Cigar Festival June 12 Summerland Tour June 13 Boston, Kansas June 19 Lynyrd Skynyrd, Travis Tritt, Blackberry Smoke June 24 David Gray, Amos Lee, Rachael Yamagata July 10 R5 July 12 Barenaked Ladies July 15 Rod Stewart, Richard Marx July 17 Wheels of Soul Summer Tour Aug. 1 Outcry Tour Aug. 22 Yes & Toto Aug. 25 O.A.R., Allen Stone, Brynn Elliott
WILD ADVENTURES Valdosta, 229-219-7080, www.wildadventures.com June 6 Casting Crowns June 20 Lecrae, Trip Lee June 27 Eli Young Band July 11 Tamela Mann July 18 Jennifer Nettles July 25 Rixton Aug. 8 Skillet
WOLF CREEK AMPHITHEATER Atlanta, 877-725-8849, wolfcreekamphitheater.com July 11 Fantasia and more July 18 Wolf Creek Funk Party July 2 Kem & Friends Aug. 1 Reuben Studdard and more
June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Train Rides, Museums Blue Ridge Scenic Railway All Aboard for a trip that will spark kids’ imaginations, adults’ memories, and leave everyone smiling! It all starts at the historic 100+ year-old depot in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia and heads north from there. As the train winds through the mountains alongside the beautiful Toccoa River, Car Hosts will share the history of the railroad and sights along the way. The views are spectacular from both the vintage climate-controlled coaches and from the open-air car. Want to ride in style? Try our new “Premier Class” which is available to adults 18 years and older. Need a snack? Visit the concession car for snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. After a leisurely one-hour trip, the train stops in the unique twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee. You will have time to shop, tour, and dine during the layover. Then it’s back to Blue Ridge. No trip is complete without making a stop at the gift shop. The ticket office is in the 100-year-old depot tucked in the charming mountain village of Blue Ridge, Georgia within the lush Chattahoochee National Forest, only 95 miles north of Atlanta. Reservations are strongly encouraged. For schedules, ticket prices, and more information, call 877-413-8724 or 706-632-8724 or visit www.brscenic.com.
The Hiawassee River Railroad Ride the historic Hiwassee River Railroad scenic rail excursion through the unspoiled Cherokee National Forest, along the beautiful Hiwassee River, and through the secluded Hiwassee River Gorge. All trips feature the engineering marvel, the Great Hiwassee Loop. At the top you’ll pass over a bridge 62 feet above the tracks on which you’ve just traveled as the rails negotiate a spiraling formation. All trips begin with a short bus trip from the restored L&N Depot & Museum in Etowah, Tennessee. For those riders choosing a trip to Copperhill, the route continues beyond Farmer through Turtletown and Ducktown to the border towns of Copperhill, Tennessee and McCaysville, Georgia. The trains feature comfortable coach seating with large viewing windows for standard service. Dome seating allows passengers a panoramic view from high above the car. Observation lounge seating provides a unique view from the car at the rear of the train in one direction. While traveling in the other direction, the car will be directly behind the locomotive. Special rates are available for groups of 25 or more; charter trips can be arranged for groups of 80 or more. For information, phone 423-894-8028, x0 or visit www.tvrail.com.
Railroad Festivals in Georgia Manchester Railroad Days features railroadiana sales, personal collection displays, and model train layouts the third weekend in October on Friday and Saturday at the Manchester Mill on GA 85. There is also a train observation deck in town. 706-975-4546. The Great Locomotive Chase Festival is held the first weekend in October in Adairsville, the town that witnessed the Civil War’s Great Locomotive Chase. 800-733-2280. The Camak Railroad Days Festival in April features historic railroad memorabilia, arts and crafts, food, entertainment, kiddie rides, and more. 706-465-2449.
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s, & Depots in Georgia SAM Shortline Excursion Train at Cordele Riding in air conditioned, 1949 vintage cars of the SAM Shortline Excursion Train, you’ll enjoy a mix of romantic yesteryear with the excitement of today’s South. The SAM Shortline Railroad extends 42 miles past pecan groves and scenic country farms. Along the way it stops in five towns filled with fun attractions, restaurants, and shopping: the Victorian town of Americus, Leslie with its Rural Telephone Museum, Plains (the hometown of President Jimmy Carter), Archery (the President’s boyhood home), and Cordele. You can step off the train at any of these depots and catch it back on the return trip. Or better yet, spend the night in a charming hotel to resume your excursion the next day. Hot dogs, BBQ, ice cream, chips, popcorn, drinks, and souvenirs are available for purchase on the train, and picnic lunches are welcome provided they fit under the seat. There are restrooms on the train and a gift shop in the Cordele depot. For information call 877-GA-RAILS or visit www.samshortline.com.
Chillin’ on the Choo-Choo in St. Marys On the St. Marys Express, the impossible occurs on a surprisingly regular basis. An authentic steam locomotive puts you in the middle of the action at the shootout at the Ok Corral. The Tooth Fairy and Jack Frost rescue Peter Cottontail from bumbling kidnappers who are after his magic eggs. George Washington and Robert E. Lee come alive to remind us of what a real American hero looks like. Clearly, time travel is an everyday occurrence on the rails of St. Marys, Georgia. Whether taking a journey into yesteryear or tomorrow, a ride on the St. Marys Express is always filled with smiles and laughter and sometimes even tears when the heart strings are tugged by inspirational performances or patriotic song. The St. Marys Express is all about history, adventure, and most of all fun—fun for all ages. Riding the rails into scenic woodlands and over picturesque marshlands is just a small slice of what the captivating train ride entails. The 2015 season is destined to be another record breaking year with new excursions added including the Pirates Express. For the entire schedule visit www.stmarysrailroad.com or call 912-200-5235.
Train Displays The Misty Mountain Railroad, America’s largest O-Gauge model train display, is located in Blairsville and is open for tours on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays at 1:30pm, Saturdays at 1:30, and 4pm, and Sundays at 2:30pm. For information, phone 706-400-2085 or visit www.mistymtnmodelrailroad.com. Charlemagne’s Kingdom is located in picturesque alpine Helen. This model train layout depicts Germany from the North Sea to the Alps. 800-858-8027 or www.georgiamodelrailroad.com. A Model Train Show held at the Cobb Galleria in March features operating layouts and model railroad vendors. www.piedmont-div.org.
June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Southeastern 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 also home to buses from MARTA’s historic fleet and predecessor systems, vintage cabs and firefighting equipment, and more. The Locomotive Celebration on June 6-7 will include temporary tattoos, locomotive hunt, food, and a kids’ craft corner. The museum will celebrate Independence Day on July 4 with both trains running and the museum open. Trains, Trucks, and Tractors on Aug. 1-2 will offer temporary caboose tattoos, food, a craft corner for children, hayrides, and exhibits of tractors, trucks, and other vehicles, both old and new. Located at 3595 Buford Hwy. in Duluth, the Museum follows a seasonal schedule; days and hours of operation are available on the website. With ad on page 12 one free train or park train ride with each paid admission. For more information, phone 770-476-2013 or visit www.SoutheasternRailwayMuseum.org.
Depot Row in Warner Robins For railroad enthusiasts, visit “depot row” in Warner Robins where you’ll find the historic 1944 train depot which is now the E. L. Greenway Welcome Center, designated a National Historic Site. Mildred’s Country Store is full of local antiques offering a glimpse of “the way things used to be” from the days when Warner Robins was known as Wellston. The Southern Railroad caboose X556 from 1971 houses a railroad display. The Elberta Train Depot will soon be a heritage center highlighting the intertwined history of the local community, the railroad, and the growth of Wellston Army Depot to Robins Field and now to Robins Air Force Base. For more information, visit www.warnerrobinsvisitorscenter.com or phone 478-922-5100 or 888-288-9742.
A Railroad Tunnel The Western and Atlantic Railroad Tunnel, home of the Tunnel Hill Heritage Center, is ideal for train viewing and photos. The tunnel played a part in the Civil War’s Great Locomotive Train Chase as the General and Texas raced through. 706-270-9960.
“The City Where America Reunited” FISHING Oct. 11, 25 . . . . .Fly Fishing Clinics, Panola Mt. St. Pk., Stockbridge, 770-389-77801 Oct. 25 . . . . .Crappie USA•Fishing Tournament Lake Oconee, Eatonton, 706-485-7701 (See info on fishing tournaments at www.flwoutdoor.com)
While in Fitzgerald Visit the Historic Depot
Welcome Center & Blue and Gray Museum
20 miles from I-75, Exit 82
www.fitzgeraldga.org • 1-800-386-4642
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Heritage Station Museum in Douglas The State of Georgia encourages its communities to celebrate and display locally made products and art through the “Georgia Made, Georgia Grown” initiative. Douglas and Coffee County have taken action to promote their local producers and artists by opening the Whistle Stop Souvenir Shop in the Heritage Station Museum. The gift shop sells locally made products such as preserves, syrup, and juice as well as postcards of local landmarks, paintings and prints by local artists, books written by local authors, and other gift items. The Heritage Station Museum in Douglas is a railroad and local history museum in the former Georgia-Florida rail depot. The museum has special exhibits and programs on a monthly basis as well as an impressive permanent collection. The museum is operated under the direction of the Coffee County Historical Society. The museum is open Thursday through Friday from 10am-4pm and Saturday from 10am-2pm. For information, call the Heritage Station Museum at 912-389-3461 or e-mail cchs@cityofdouglas.com or visit www.cityofdouglas.com.
Historical Railroad Depot in Fitzgerald The historical railroad depot in Fitzgerald was built about 1902 when the Atlanta and Birmingham Railroad arrived in town. Unique features include a terra cotta roof and shed top eaves. The passenger area and various offices now house City Hall. The passenger area and various offices now house the Welcome Center. The original baggage room now houses the Blue & Gray Museum which tells through a documentary and artifacts the founding story of Fitzgerald and its Civil War roots. More than 1200 objects, photographs, household items, memorabilia, and rare artifacts are displayed in new and refinished cases and in specially fabricated sections. The Hall of Honor represents Shacktown where early pioneers lived while an exciting documentary, Marching as One, celebrates the Yank-Reb harmony story. Fitzgerald was founded in 1895 by Philander H. Fitzgerald who was seeking a warm, receptive area where aging Union veterans and their families could retire in comfort. 229-426-5069. Tour Fitzgerald with its blue and gray sidewalks reflecting Civil War colors, the Grand Plaza Park, streets named for Yank and Reb Generals, and the Evergreen Cemetery where Yanks and Rebs rest side by side. For information, phone 800-386-4642 or visit www.fitzgeraldga.org. Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History in Kennesaw This museum is home of the famous locomotive, the General, which was stolen during the Civil War’s Great Locomotive Chase. Relive the exciting chase, learn about the vital role railroads played in the War, and experience life in a post-war locomotive factory. 2829 Cherokee Street, Kennesaw. 770-427-2117 or www.southernmuseum.org. The Albany Heritage Center has a steam locomotive, baggage car, a HO scale model railroad exhibit, a Post Office car, bay-window caboose, and other railroad rolling stock pieces including four boxcars and a tank car. 100 W. Roosevelt Ave. 229-432-6955. The Scenic Railroad at Stone Mountain Park The Stone Mountain Scenic Railroad takes a five mile journey in open-air train cars around the base of the world’s largest mass of exposed granite. The full-size locomotive is from the 1940’s. The train is boarded at Marketplace Depot in Crossroads. The trip lasts 25-30 minutes. 770-498-5690 or www.stonemountainpark.com. Georgia State Railroad Museum in Savannah The Roundhouse Railroad Museum in Savannah is housed in the old Central of Georgia Railroad repair shops. It features a massive operational turntable, a variety of railroad engines and cars from different periods of history, a large model train layout of Savannah, and train rides. 601 W. Harris St. 912-651-6823 or www.chsgeorgia.org. Locomotive, Passenger Car, Railroad Artifacts at Augusta Museum Georgia Railroad Steam Locomotive #302, built in 1914, is the sole remaining engine of the line. Also at the museum are a coal tender, a passenger car, and an exhibit with railroad artifacts. 560 Reynolds Street. 706-722-8654 or www.augustamuseum.org. June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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1917 Vulcan Steam Engine Train at Agrirama in Tifton This1917 Vulcan steam-powered locomotive, originally a coal mining train, now represents a logging train and chugs along the 1.3 mile railroad system encircling the 95 acre Agrirama. On Saturdays, ride the train to the Historic Village from the Country Store. I-75 South, Exit 63B, Tifton. 800-767-1875 or www.agrirama.com. The Train at Six Flags Over Georgia Six Flags Over Georgia has a diesel train that circles the park. This beautifully detailed train has a classic 1967 locomotive. On the trip the conductor points out the best attractions. Located in Metro Atlanta. 770-948-9290 or www.sixflags.com. Incline Railway at Lookout Mountain The Incline Railway climbs historic Lookout Mountain with trolleystyle railcars, and the 72.7% grade of the track near the top gives it the distinction of being the steepest passenger railway in the world. 423-821-4224. www.ridetheincline.com. Lake Winnepasaukah Tour Train Lake Winnepasaukah in Rossville is an amusement park with a bright red mini tour train providing a picturesque view of the park. Open from May to October. 877-525-3946 or www.lakewinnie.com.
Historic Depots and Locomotives in Georgia The Adairsville Depot houses a Visitor Center and the Rail Depot Age of Steam Museum featuring local and area history with special emphasis on the Great Locomotive Chase of Civil War Fame. 770-773-1775. The Atlanta Historic Freight Depot, built in 1869, served as the main freight depot for the Georgia Railroad. It is located across from the zero-mile post that is the entrance to Underground Atlanta. It is used as a meeting facility. 404-656-3850. The Byron Depot, built in 1870 and restored, features a pictorial history and memorabilia of the town and historical facts about trains and cabooses. Originally this depot served Station 1½. Shown by appointment. 478-956-0328. The Conyers Depot, built in 1891, is now the Conyers Welcome Center. The Milstead 104 “Dinky,” a 1905 Rogers steam locomotive, once ran rail service from Conyers to Milstead along 3.3 miles of rail. 800-266-9377. The Cartersville Depot at Friendship Plaza is used as a Welcome Center. This 1854 W&A Depot survived the War Between the States, fires, and 20th century progress. 770-607-3480. The Columbus Union Station Depot, dating from 1901, is located at 1200 Sixth Street. It serves as the home of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. www.columbusgachamber.com or 706-327-1566. The Crawford Depot, an 1840’s granite depot, is in the final stages of rehabilitation. It serves as the offices of the Oglethorpe County Chamber of Commerce and as an event rental facility. 706-743-3113. The Dalton Depot, now the Dalton Depot Restaurant, was important during much of the early action for the Atlanta Campaign of the Civil War. 706-226-3160. The Flowery Branch Depot, over 100 years old, serves as a community rental Come Ride the Rails of Local History at the center. 770-967-6371. The Folkston Depot with board-andbatten exterior and widely overhanging roof is a good example of ACL design. It houses a Thursday & Friday, 10 am- 4 pm museum with old train memorabilia. A viewing Saturday10 am-2 pm platform has a train radio traffic scanner. 912496-2536. 219 W. WARD ST. • DOUGLAS, GA The Hampton Depot, built in 1881, is 912-389-3461 used as the Main Street office and is available WWW.CITYOFDOUGLAS.COM for rent. 770-946-4306. 16 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2015
HERITAGE STATION MUSEUM
Historic Depots and Locomotives in Georgia The Little Red Caboose in Jesup, built circa 1903, has information on Wayne county history. There is a Rail Fan Platform for train watchers. 912-427-3233. The Moultrie Locomotive is a turn-of-the-century original steam locomotive quite popular with train enthusiasts. It was built by Baldwin in 1929. 229-890-5455. The Okefenokee Heritage Center in Waycross includes the depot from the early 1900’s, a 1912 Baldwin steam locomotive, a coal tender, two freight cars, a postal car, a passenger car, 342 feet of track, and railroad exhibits. 912-285-4260. The Plains Depot, built in 1888, gained national attention in 1976 as the local campaign headquarters for Jimmy Carter in his bid for the White House. It is now filled with memorabilia from his campaign. 229-824-4104. The Ringgold Depot, built in 1850, is one of the few antebellum railroad depots in Georgia. Once used in the Civil War as a supply point for Confederate troops, the depot is now a multipurpose center. There is a viewing platform. 706-935-3061. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center in Gainesville is in a restored train depot with meeting facilities and performance/exhibit space. 770-534-2787. Gainesville also has a steam locomotive, the Gainesville Midland 209, and a caboose. 770-297-5900. The Winder Depot is the home of the Barrow County Chamber of Commerce. It was built in 1910 as the Seaboard Air Line Railroad Depot. Under the shed is Gainesville Midland 208, a 1930 Baldwin 2-10-0 steam locomotive. 770-867-9444. One source said that more historic depots are located in Ludowici, Walthourville, Alapaha, DuPont, Argyle, Whigham, Climax, and Iron City. Other historic engines can be seen in Atlanta, Bainbridge, Brasstown Bald, Camilla, Cleveland-Helen, Gainesville, Jefferson, Macon, Marietta, McDonough, and Sylvester.
June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Georgia Summers Watermelon Days Festival in Cordele Visit the Cordele-Crisp County area June 1-27 for the 66th Annual Watermelon Days Festival. The main day of the festival will be Saturday, June 27, and will feature a parade, arts & crafts, entertainment, free slices of watermelon, truck and car display, antique tractor and equipment display, and watermelon related competitions such as seed spitting, fast eating, etc. Events planned from June 1-27 include a dog show, pageant, road races, photo contest, puppet show, watermelon decoration contest, gospel singing, worship service, horseshoe tournament, and more. Also, enjoy a ride on the famous historic SAM Shortline Excursion Train. Over four thousand acres of melons are grown in Crisp County which has the ideal soil to grow this delicious fruit. More than 200 million pounds of watermelons each year are shipped through the Cordele State Farmers Market. While in Crisp County visit Lake Blackshear, the Georgia Veterans Memorial State Park, the Watermelon Capital Speedway, golf courses, and the Cordele State Farmers Market. For a schedule of activities, phone 229-273-1668 or visit www.cordelecrispga.com.
Merritt Pecan Company in Weston Merritt Pecan Company, located on Hwy. 520 in Weston, specializes in farm-fresh pecans and offers a large selection of items including pecans, pecan candies, brittle, divinity, jams, jellies, sauces, souvenirs, homemade pies and cakes, t-shirts, cookbooks, and gift baskets. The pecans are grown and harvested on their farms and processed at their plant. The company, in business since 1980, is halfway between Albany and Columbus. It has a Chevron Foodmart and offers convenience store items, BBQ sandwiches, hot wings, hot dogs, cheeseburger dogs, sausage biscuits, and other food items. The store also offers a picnic area with tables for customers, an inside ATM, clean restrooms, walking area for dogs, and bus and camper parking. Local produce items, ranging from peas to peaches, are available when in season. Football fans will find souvenir items for Georgia, Auburn, and other local teams ranging from books to back scratchers. Merritt Pecan Company, reminiscent of a general store, is decorated with memorabilia, has a display of John Deere toys inside, and an antique tractor barn with John Deere tractors and other antique tools. The store is open from 7am-7pm daily except for Christmas Day. Visit www.merritt-pecan.com or phone 800-762-9152.
Each Season Something
New
Summer is alive with beautiful roadside wildflowers and festival season. Visitor favorites include the Blairsville Scottish Festival in June, the Butternut Creek Festival and Green Bean Festival both in July. Come join us!
www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com 877-745-5789
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Monthly Events in Georgia Thru July 31 – PINE MOUNTAIN – FSU Flying High Circus, Callaway Gardens. 800-callaway. June 1-Aug. 29 – BLAIRSVILLE – Misty Mt. RR Tours, Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat., 2pm. 706-745-9819. June 1-Sept. 28 – BLUE RIDGE – Scenic Railway. Call for schedule. 877-413-8724. June 4-20 – ALBANY – S.W. Georgia Art Show/ Sale, Thronateeska Heritage Ctr. 229-439-2787. June 4, 11, 18, 25 – McCAYSVILLE – Pickin’ in Horseshoe Bend Park, 6pm. 706-632-7696. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – AUGUSTA – First Friday, Downtown, 5-9pm. 706-826-4702. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – AUGUSTA – First Thursday, Shops Along Kings Way, 5:20pm. 706733-1788.
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2015
Are The Best! Family Fun in Blairsville This Summer Blairsville has an abundance of attractions including Lake Nottely and Lake Winfield Scott, Vogel State Park, Historic Courthouse Museum (with its internationally renowned Margarita Morgan Miniature Collection), Sleepy Hollow Fairy Houses, Trackrock petroglyphs, Misty Mountain Model Railroad, hiking, waterfalls, two alpaca farms, and Brasstown Bald Mountain (Georgia’s highest elevation with a view of four states). Summer festivals include the Scottish Festival & Highland Games on June 13-14, the Mountain Fling juried arts & crafts show on June 27-28, the July 4th Celebration including a boat parade on Lake Nottely and fireworks over Meeks Park, and the Butternut Creek Festival featuring mountain art on July 18-19. Other events include Friday night concerts at the Historic Courthouse, first weekend Cruise-ins on the Square, and a Farmers Market. Blairsville-Union County’s restaurant scene includes pizza parlors, scratch-cooking cafés, diners like the fun Aviator Café, palate pleasers like Jim’s Smokin Que, and the Sawmill Place with its 32-ingredient Morning Glory muffin. Lodging was made with families in mind: deluxe cabins with views of woods and water are tucked all over the county. For information, phone 877745-5789 or visit www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com.
Butternut Creek Festival in Blairsville The 17th Annual Butternut Creek Festival is a fine craft and art show sponsored by the High Country Artisans, Inc. It will be held July 18-19 at Meeks Park, located on Hwy. 76/515 just 0.7 mile west of Blairsville. Festival hours will be 10am-5pm. There will be good food and live entertainment. Admission, parking, and shuttle service will be free. Seventy artists have been selected to participate and will be offering chicken folk art gourds, musical instruments, 2D and 3D stained glass, lamp work, glass bead jewelry, knives, woodturning, purses, totes, hand carved Santas, handmade soaps and lotions, rustic furniture, and more. Their tents will line the walkway along the shady shores of the Butternut Creek. Several artists will be demonstrating their crafts: Butch Dey with his blacksmithing; Mal McEwen with chain saw carving; Tom Ruffin with basket weaving; Jerry King with his old time foot pedal power woodturning; and Hans Meier with scroll saw puzzles. For information, visit www.butternutcreek festival.com, like them on Facebook at al Butternut art festival, phone 706-781-1221, or th Annu email butternutcreekfestival@gmail.com.
APPLE PICKIN’ JUBILEE 20 Sept. 12 - Nov. 1 (weekends)
Monthly Events in Georgia June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – BRUNSWICK – First Friday, Downtown, 5-8pm. 912-265-4032. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – CARTERSVILLE – 1st Friday, Downtown, 5-8pm. 770-607-3480. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – DAHLONEGA – First Friday Concerts, Hancock Pk., 6:30pm.706-864-3513. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – ROME – First Friday Concerts, 7-10pm. 800-444-1834. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – SAVANNAH – 1st Friday/Folk Music, 1st Presbyterian, 7:30pm. 877savannah. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – SAVANNAH – First Friday Fireworks, River Street. 912-234-0295. June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – THOMASVILLE – First Friday, Downtown, 6-9pm. 229-227-7020.
o ur Pick ypple s. o wn a
Pig Races - Milk a Cow - Wagon Rides Cow Train - Mini Golf - Kids’ Maze - Giant Slides Jumping Pillow - Museums - Live Entertainment 9 a.m.-6 p.m. • $10 per person
HILLCREST ORCHARDS Hwy. 52, 9 miles east of Ellijay
www.hillcrestorchards.net 706-273-3838 • applelan@ellijay.com
June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Perspectives 2015: 13th Annual Georgia Pottery Invitational in Watkinsville TM
The Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation (OCAF) will host Perspectives Aug. 29-Sept. 16 from 10am-5pm at OCAF, 34 School Street, in Watkinsville, GA. As the premiere pottery event of its kind, a juried selection of 50 of Georgia’s finest potters will have over 5,000 pieces of contemporary functional and decorative handmade pottery for sale. Admission and parking will be free, and tour groups and buses will be welcome. In addition to the sale, Perspectives will include three exhibitions, gallery talks, pottery demonstrations, and a pottery workshop. This annual event is a favorite of artists and attendees; highlights a wide collection of styles, forms, colors and price ranges; and has earned the distinction as a “Top 20 Events” by the Southeast Tourism Society. Kicking off the event will be the Opening Gala on Aug. 28 from 6-9pm. Gala admission will be $20 and will include food, drinks, music, time to meet participating artists, and the opportunity to preview and purchase pottery before the show opens to the public. Details and tickets for Perspectives can be found online at www.ocaf.com or by calling 706-769-4565.
Monthly Events in Georgia June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 – VALDOSTA – First Friday, Downtown, 6:30-9:30pm. 229-259-3577. June 5-Sept. 4 – RUTLEDGE – Friday Night Concerts, City Park. 706-557-2223. June 5-Aug. 28 – BLAIRSVILLE – Friday Night Concerts, Courthouse, 7pm. 706-745-5493. June 5-Aug. 29 – WOODBINE – Opry, Fridays & Saturdays, 7-10pm. 912-576-3027. June 5-Aug. 29 – CORDELE – SAM Shortline Excursion Train, various dates. Call for schedule. 877-ga-rails. June 6, 13, 20 – ACWORTH – Bluegrass Series, Red Top Mountain, 8pm. 770-975-0055. June 6, Aug. 7 – CORNELIA – Friday Night Flicks, City Park, Dusk. 800-835-2559. June 6-7, 13, July 11, Aug. 8 – THOMSON – Sunset Auctions. 706-836-1413.
QUALITY
Products. . .
Fresh From Our Orchards
Hwy. 520 Weston 1-800-762-9152 www.merritt-pecan.com 20
June 6, July 4, Aug. 1 – DARIEN – 1st Saturday, Downtown, 10am-2pm; 1st Saturday, Fort King George, 1-4pm. 912-437-4770. June 6, July 4, Aug. 1 – RICHMOND HILL – Cars & Coffee, History Museum, 9am. 912-756-3697. June 6,20, July 4, 8, Aug. 1,15 – NEWNAN – Pickin’ on the Square, 11am. 770-253-8287. June 6-Aug. 29 – HELEN – Saturday Evening Concerts, Unicoi St. Pk., 8pm. 706-878-2201. June 6-Aug. 30 – HELEN – Visiting Artist Series, Unicoi St. Pk., Sat. & Sun. 706-878-2201. June 13, July 11, Aug. 8 – ALBANY – Freedom Singers, Civil Rights Institute, 1pm. 866-750-0840. June 13, 27, July 11, 18, Aug. 8 – ELLIJAY – Engleheim Vineyards Live Music, 2-5pm. 706635-9463. June 13, July 11, Aug. 15 – CARTERSVILLE – Heritage Programs, Etowah Mounds. 770-387-3747. June 14, July 5, Aug. 9 – ST. SIMONS – Concerts at Lighthouse, 7pm. 912-638-4666. June 14, July 12, Aug. 9 – MACON – Second Sundays, Washington Park. 478-621-4420. June 14, July 12, Aug. 9 – ST SIMONS – Music at Gascoigne Bluff, 1-7pm. 800-933-2627. June 18, July 16 – FITZGERALD – Meet Artist, 6pm, Concert 7pm, Carnegie Ctr. 229-426-5035. June 19, July 17, Aug. 21 – ELLIJAY – Live Music at Gilmer Arts! Acoustic Blends, 7pm. 706635-7400. June 19, July 17, Aug. 21 – RICHMOND HILL – Fridays on the Train, 6:30pm. 912-756-2676. June 20, July 18, Aug. 15 – SAUTEE-NACOOCHEE – Concerts, S.N. Vineyards. 706-878-1056. June 20, July 18, Aug. 22 – BLAIRSVILLE – Cruise-In on Square, 4-7pm. 706-897-5857. June 26, July 17-19 – CORNELIA – Summer Concerts, City Park Amph., 8:30pm. 706-778-8585. June 28, July 12, Aug. 30 – ST. SIMONS – Sounds by the Sea, Neptune Pk., 7pm. 800-933-2627. June 13, July 11 – CONYERS – Olde Town Summer Film Series, 7pm. 770-602-2606.
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2015
The Real Squeal: Lyons BBQ & Music Festival Lyons, Georgia will host its 6th annual BBQ Festival on October 9-10. The Real Squeal is a Kansas City Barbeque Society sanctioned event with both professional and amateur BBQ competitions. The festival will kick off on Friday, October 9, in downtown Lyons with a street dance, amateur BBQ contest, classic car cruise-in and cruise-out, traditional festival foods, BBQ sauce contest, and fireworks. Wake up early October 10 and participate in the 5K & 1 mile Fun Run, and then head to Partin Park for the professional BBQ competition. Activities for the entire family will include arts & crafts, live music, professional chainsaw carvers, Gail Mirabella & The Dynamo Dogs, Native American Encampment and dancers, Indian artifact show, Squeal-In Classic Car Show, Guns & Hoses softball game, and kids’ creative play area and rides. Visit www.therealsqueal.com for details and to download applications. Call 912-526-6445 or e-mail lyonsmainstreet@gmail.com for more information.
Monthly Events in Georgia June 18-July 16 – MADISON – Summer Happenings, Town Park, Thurs. Nights. 706-342-1251. June 26, July 31, Aug. 29 – BLUE RIDGE – Classic Cars Cruise-In, DQ, 6pm. 706-838-4701. June 28, July 26, Aug. 30 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Dinner Dances, Club Hotel, 6:30pm. 912-635-2400. July 30-Aug. 8 – FAYETTEVILLE – Fayette County Fair. 404-913-fair.
June 1-27 – CORDELE-CRISP COUNTY – Watermelon Days Festival, various venues. 229-273-1668. 4-6 – HELEN – Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race, Helendorf Inn. 706-878-2271. 5 – CLAYTON – First Friday Fest, Downtown, 5:30-8pm. 706-782-4812. 5 – SAVANNAH – Dancing Stars of Coastal Ga., Int’l. Trade Center. 912-659-2245. 5-6 – ALMA – Georgia Blueberry Festival, Goldwasser Park. 912-310-7399. 5-7 – SAVANNAH – Blues, Jazz, BBQ on River Street. 912-234-0295. 6 – CONYERS – A1A Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band, Olde Town Pavilion, 8pm. 770-922-3143. 6 – DALLAS – 151st Battle Commemoration, Pickett’s Mill Battlefield. 770-443-7850. 6 – EATONTON – Putnam County Dairy Festival, Courthouse Square. 706-473-0763. 6 – TOCCOA – D-Day Run & Events, Currahee Military Museum. 706-282-5055. 6-7 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Georgia Sea Island Festival. 800-933-2627. 12 – CLAYTON – Sock Hop, Civic Center Diner. 706-490-1978. 13 – FORT VALLEY – Peach Festival. 478825-4002.
13 – LUMPKIN – Dr. Zeigler’s Traveling Medicine Show, Westville Village. 888-733-1850. 13 – MADISON – Juneteenth/Music in Park, African American Museum. 706-342-9191. 13 – ROME – Rome Symphony Orchestra Pops Concert, Huffman Ctr., 7-9pm. 706-291-7967. 13 – ST. MARYS – The Old Folkie Ken Sizemore Concert, Park, 6-8pm. 912-882-4000. 13-14 – BLAIRSVILLE – 12th Annual Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Meeks Park. 706-745-5789. 13-14 – CARTERSVILLE – Rock Fest, Tellus Science Museum. 770-606-5700.
June 1-27 “Watermelon Capital of the World”
Cordele, GA Main Day of Festival June 27nd Parade • Arts & Crafts • Entertainment Free Watermelon Slices • Truck & Car Display Antique Tractor & Equipment Display Watermelon Seed Spitting & Eating Contests Dog Show • Pageant • Road Races • Photo Contest Puppet Show • SAM Shortline Excursion Train Ride
229-273-1668
List of events on web page:
www.cordelecrispga.com June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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Apple Pickin’ Jubilee in Ellijay The 20th annual Apple Pickin’ Jubilee will be held on weekends from Sept. 12-Nov. 1 from 9am-6pm at Hillcrest Orchards, nine miles east of Ellijay on Hwy. 52. Pick your own apples. Milk Buttercup the cow. Jump for joy on the Giant Jumping Pillow. Get lost in the “Corny Kid’s Maze.” Ride the pedal cart track. There will be pig races, pony rides, tricycle rides, clogging, country bands, and wagon rides. Visit the Moonshine and Farm House Museums, the petting farm, the Children’s Play Area with giant slides, and the Enchanted Forest and Nature Trail with scenes from nursery rhymes and fairy tales. Visit the new Adventure Area with Hillbilly Golf, playgrounds, a cow train ride, and the Apple Adventure Kids’ Museum. Sit back and enjoy live bluegrass concerts and clogging on the Hillcrest Stage. An operating gristmill will be grinding cornmeal and grits. Grandma’s Bakery will serve fried apple pies, apple cider, apple fritters, apple cider donuts, fudge, and homemade ice cream. There will also be mountain barbecue and other vittles. All activities will be included for a $10 admission fee except for separate fees for the bungee jump and pony rides. For information, visit www.hillcrestorchards.net, phone 706-273-3838, or e-mail applelan@ellijay.com.
June 13-14 – CAVE SPRING – Arts Festival. 800444-1834. 19-28 – TALLULAH FALLS – Tallulah Gorge Skywalk Celebration. 706-782-4812. 20 – APPLING – Kelley Family Bluegrass Concert, Mistletoe St. Pk., 7:30pm. 706-541-0321. 20 – BLUE RIDGE – Summerfest, City Park. 706-632-2144. 20 – HELEN – Shriner’s Parade, Downtown. 706-878-2181. 20 – PINE MOUNTAIN – Music & Dancing, FDR State Park, 7pm. 706-663-4858. 20 – WOODBURY – Peaches and Pines Festival, Lake Meriwether. 706-975-4546. 21 – CLAYTON – Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Reardon Theatre, 6pm. 706-782-4812. 25-28 – CARTERSVILLE – Cowboy Artists of America Reunion, Booth Museum. 770-387-1300. 26 – BLAIRSVILLE – Summer Launch Party, Mountain Research Ctr., 5-9pm. 877-745-5789. 26-28 – ATHENS – AthFest Music & Arts Festival, Downtown. 800-655-0603. 27 – CORDELE – Watermelon Days Festival Main Day. 229-273-1668. 27 – SAUTEE – Community Contra Dance, Art Center. 706-878-3300. 27-28 – BLAIRSVILLE – Mountain Fling, North Georgia Tech. 706-896-0932. 27-28 – NORTH GEORGIA – Georgia Mountains Farm Tour. 503-758-8488.
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27-28 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Antique Show, Postell Park. 912-264-3254.
July (See page 9 for Independence Day events.) 11 – ST. MARYS – Saxophonist Michael Hulett, Park, 6-8pm. 912-882-4000. 11-17 – PERRY – Restaurant Week, Downtown. 478-988-8000. 16 – CARTERSVILLE – Pickxen Concert, Booth Museum, 7pm. 770-387-1300. 17-25 – HIAWASSEE – Georgia Mountain Fair, Fairgrounds. 706-896-4191. 18 – WARNER ROBINS – Museum of Aviation Foundation Auction. 478-922-5100. 18-19 – BLAIRSVILLE – Butternut Creek Festival, Meeks Park. 706-781-1221. 19 – NEWNAN – Sacred Harp Singing, Courthouse, 10am-3pm. 770-254-2627. 20 – VALDOSTA – Taste of Downtown, 5-9pm. 229-242-2600. 21-25 – VALDOSTA – Downtown Valdosta Restaurant Week. 229-242-2600. 23-26 – ATHENS – Rick Bonfim Ministries. 800-918-6393. 24-25 – MADISON – Firefly Festival, Main Street, 6:30-8:30pm. 706-342-1251. 25 – BLAIRSVILLE – Green Bean Festival, Downtown. 877-745-5789. 25-26 – CHATSWORTH – Chief Vann House Days. 706-695-2598.
GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2015
Chattahoochee Mountain Fair in Clarkesville The 40th Annual Chattahoochee Mountain Fair will be held September 11-19 at the Habersham County Fairgrounds at 4235 Old Toccoa Hwy in Clarkesville. The fair will open weekdays at 6pm and weekends at 2pm. The fair will welcome Carnival Thyme with more midway-carnival rides. The Ram Rodeo will be Fri., Sept. 11, and Sat., Sept. 12, at 8pm. There will be art, photography, canning, needlework, and craft contests; exhibits of the largest vegetables and fruits; 4-H exhibits and contests; cake walks on weekends; and a “Frozen” show on Sat., Sept. 19, at 3pm. Entertainment will feature local gospel music groups on Friday, Sept. 11; WCON talent on Sat., Sept. 12, at 3pm; B-Shoc on Sun., Sept. 13; local award-winning bluegrass artist Edgar Loudermilk on Thurs., Sept. 17; Marty Brown, semi-finalist on Americas Got Talent, on Fri., Sept. 18; and Wet Willie on Sat., Sept. 19, at 8pm. Performing daily will be Sam’s Path Petting Zoo; Skins & Bones Comedy Circus; and the balloon artist Dr. Magical Balloons. Also during the fair there will be Jeff Robbins making banjos, livestock shows, a dog beauty contest, and an agricultural fun show. For more information, visit www.chattahoocheemountainfair.org or phone 706-768-6890.
August 1 – BLUE RIDGE – Great Gatsby Event, Ponton Estate, Lake Blue Ridge. 706-889-7415. 1 – ROME – Taste Northwest Georgia, Forum, 11am-6pm. 800-444-1834. 2 – VALDOSTA – 100 Black Men of Valdosta BBQ Cook Off, Downtown. 229-242-2600. 4 – HELEN – Taste of Helen, Arts & Heritage Center. 706-878-3933. 5-9 – ELLIJAY – Gilmer Co. Fair. 706-635-5901. 8 – SAVANNAH – Georgia’s First 4th, Wormsloe. 912-353-3023. 8 – ST. MARYS – Bluff 5 Band Concert, Park, 6-8pm. 912-882-4000. 15 – DALLAS – A Soldier’s Life, Pickett’s Mill Battlefield. 770-443-7850. 15 – DARIEN – Sights & Sounds of Sawmills, Fort King George. 912-437-4770.
15 – MINERAL BLUFF – Tri-State Model Railroaders Open House, Depot. 423-496-5006. 20 – CARTERSVILLE – Trails Plowed Under Concert, Booth Museum, 7pm. 770-387-1300. 21-22 – DOUGLAS – South Georgia Outdoor Expo, Central Square Complex. 912-383-0277. 22-23 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Arts & Crafts Show, Postell Park. 800-933-2627. 30-Aug. 1 – HIAWASSEE – Ga. Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In. 662-587-9572.
September 12-Nov. 1 – ELLIJAY – Apple Pickin’ Jubilee, Hillcrest Orchards, Weekends. 706-273-3838.
October 3-31 ELLIJAY – Apple Pickin’ Jubilee, Hillcrest Orchards, Weekends. 706-273-3838. 9-10 – LYONS – The Real Squeal BBQ Festival, Downtown & Partin Park. 912-526-6445.
Come Celebrate
17th Annual
Butternut Creek Festival Celebrating 40 Years July 18 & 19, 2015 Saturday & Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM FREE Admission & Parking
MEEKS PARK Blairsville, Ga.
7 Years In A R ow!
(on south side of Hwy 76/515 0.7 mile west of Hwy 19/129 traffic light) Live Artist Demonstrations, Live Music, Great Food www.butternutcreekfestival.com
SEPTEMBER 11-19
HABERSHAM COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
CLARKESVILLE Fair opens nightly at 6 pm, Sat. & Sun. 2 pm
New Midway/Carnival • Ram Rodeo • “Frozen” Show Arts/Crafts & Vegetable/Fruit Exhibits & Contests Sam’s Path Petting Zoo • Dog Show • Skins & Bones Comedy Wet Willie, Saturday, Sept. 19, 8pm • Entertainment & More
706-768-6890
www.chattahoocheemountainfair.org
June / July / August 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA
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b ! m d i r l a C bo A Visit: Downtown Cordele Depot Georgia Veterans State Park Leslie Americus Plains Archery • Ride in climate-controlled vintage 1949 passenger cars • Coach & premium seating available • Restrooms on train • Concession car with food, refreshments and souvenirs • Gift shop in Downtown Cordele Depot • Don’t miss “Day Out With Thomas” October 16-18 & 24-25
FOR INFORMATION, SCHEDULES, PRICES, & RESERVATIONS: 1-877-GA RAILS • www.samshortline.com