Spring 2019

G uide To GEORGIA

State-wide •Events •Attractions •Fairs & Festivals

Spring 2019

Spring Arts in the Park Blue Ridge, May 25 & 26

Come join us for a wee bit of Scotland in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains!

16th Annual

BLAIRSVILLE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES June 8-9, 2019 Meeks Park Blairsville, GA

FESTIVAL and GAMES Saturday & Sunday 9am-5pm • Athletic Games • Children’s Activities • Scottish Dance •Workshops • Live Music • Great Food • Clans • Genealogy • Demos • Animals • ad more!

• Gaelic Gallop 5K Run on Saturday, June 8 at 8am.

See BlairsvilleScottishFestival.org to sign up March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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COVER STORY BRMAA - The Voice of the Arts Welcome the return of spring with the voice of the arts in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

For 43 years, the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, a non-profit arts council, has provided a unique art experience through their Arts in the Park festival series: one of the Southeast’s most popular and highly regarded outdoor celebrations of the arts. Located at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in the Downtown City Park of Blue Ridge, GA, the Arts in the Park festival series draw in excess of 19,000 attendees and a wide array of artists and food vendors. Recently listed as one of the top Art Towns in Georgia by the Georgia Council of the Arts, Blue Ridge is a top art destination and features a unique artistic experience for visitors and residents alike.

Artists, vendors, and visitors enjoy a wide variety of fine arts and crafts, demonstrations, food, and much more during the Arts in the Park festivals.

G uide To GEORGIA SPRING 2019 • March/April/May Volume 59 • Number 1

7 �������������Visit Our Advertisers on the Web 8-11 ����������������������������Metro Atlanta Events 12-15 ����������������� Garden and Nature Events 15 ����������� Feature: Celebrate Mother’s Day 16-18 �������������������������������� Theatre Directory 19 ����������������������������� Entertainment Venues 20-37 ������������������������������������ Georgia Events

GUIDE to GEORGIA

2840 College Dr., Columbus, GA 31906 706-563-4613 New e-mail: info@guidetogeorgia.com Web: www.guidetogeorgia.com Richard Buchanan ���������������������������� Publisher 706-888-8288 �����Richard@guidetogeorgia.com Debi Richardson ����������������������Graphics Editor 803-259-1990 Debi@guidetogeorgia.com

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Enrique Amat is a self-taught artist born in 1963. He went to the University of Havana and obtained knowledge in Mechanical Engineering. In 1985 he was part of the Ceramic Workshop of the Municipality “10 de Octubre”, participating in various events and courses at a provincial, national and international level.

In 1993 he took clases in watercolor technique and oil painting. In April of the same year some of his watercolors became a permanent part in the private collection of Parramon Editions in Barcelona, Spain, who sent him recognition for the quality of the paintings.

On June, 28, 1993, he mounted a personal exhibition in the Historical Park “Morro Cabana” in the transient room of the park.

Cheryl Bates ������������������������Customer Service 706-457-1436 �������Cheryl@guidetogeorgia.com Johnny Craven ����� Informational Technologist Mike Norkus ������������������������������������Distribution THE GUIDE TO GEORGIA, founded in 1960, is the premier 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 $12 per year. Contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without permission.

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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G uide To GEORGIA

VISIT OUR ADVERTISERS ON THE WEB

Biblical History Center. . . . p. 20-21, 33 www.BiblicalHistoryCenter.com

Madison Tour of Homes. . . . . . . . . . p. 29 www.friendsofheritagehall.org

Blairsville Scottish Festival. . . p. 2, 23

Massee Lane Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . p. 12

Blue Ridge Arts in the Park. p. 1, 25, 40

Meriwether County Chamber. . p. 4, 28

www.BlairsvilleScottishFestival.com

www.americancamellias.org

www.blueridgearts.net

http://meriwethercountychamber.org

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. . . . . . . p. 27 www.brscenic.com

City of Conyers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 10 www.visitconyersga.com City of Fitzgerald. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 36

www.fitzgeraldga.org

City of Toccoa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 32

www.mainstreettoccoa.com

Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival. p. 31 www.conyerscherryblossomfest.com

Darien Blessing of the Fleet . . . . . p. 35 www.blessingofthefleet.com

Merritt Pecan Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 24 www.merritt-pecan.com Ocmulgee Wild Hog Festival. . . . . p. 34 http://www.hogfestival.com/ About-The-Festival.html

Peachtree City CVB . . . p. 3, 6, 22-23, 39 www.visitpeachtreecity.com

Putnam Co. Dairy Festival . . . . . . . p. 34 www.putnamcountydairyfestival.com

Sacred Heart Garden Club. . . . . . . p. 13 www.SacredHeartGardenFestival.com

Douglasville. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 14

Scott Antique Markets. . . . . . . . . . . p. 8

Georgia Blueberry Festival. . . . . . p. 32

Smyrna Jonquil Festival. . . . . . . . . p. 11

www.georgiablueberryfestival.org

www.SmyrnaCity.com

Georgia JugFest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 26

Southeastern Railway Museum. . . p. 9

www.hydrangeafest.org

www.scottantiquemarkets.com

www.gajugfestival.com

www.southeasternrailwaymuseum.org

Hiwassee River Railroad. . . . . . . . . p. 33

Southland Jubilee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 35 www.southlandjubilee.com

Lane Southern Orchards . . . . . . . . p. 37 www.lanesouthernorchards.com

St. Marys Railroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 30 www.StMarysRailroad.com

Lyons Better Hometown. . . . . . p. 17, 18 www.talesfromthealtamaha.com

Summerville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 36 www.summervillega.org

www.tvrail.com

Guide To Georgia Subscription $12/Year Name___________________________________________________________

Address________________________________________________________ City___________________________________State_____Zip____________ E-mail______________________________________Phone______________ Mail card & check to: Guide To Georgia, 2840 College Dr., Columbus, GA 31906 March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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It’s All About You . . .

Scott Antique Market in Atlanta The Scott Antique Market at the Atlanta Expo Centers is the world’s largest monthly indoor antique show and features two buildings (366,000 square feet) with over 3500 booths, outdoor shopping, and a courtyard of merchandise – all stocked full of pretty much every antique imaginable. All things antique wind up at the Scott Antique Market – antique furniture, vintage hardware, rare art, stunning glassware, heirloom silver, incredible jewelry, and 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. Food and snacks are available.

Upcoming shows will be March 7-10, April 11-14, May 9-12 and June 6-9.

For more information on Scott Antique Markets visit www.scottantiquemarkets.com, or call 740-569-2800.

Ongoing Spring Events Mar. 1, Apr. 5, May 3 – 1st Friday Gallery Walks, Roswell Historic Dist. 770-993-4783.

Mar. 7, Apr. 4, May 2 – 1st Thursday Art Walk, Dntn. Atlanta. 5-8pm. 404-658-1877.

Mar. 7-17 – Jewish Music Festival, various locations. 312-291-9024.

Mar. 8-17 – Great American Cover-Up Quilt Show, Roswell, Bulloch Hall. 770-640-3253.

Mar. 15, Apr. 19, May 17 – Third Friday Night Music Remix, High Museum of Art, 6-10pm.

404-733-high.

Mar. 30–Apr. 7 – Spring Fun Fest, Stone Mountain Park. 770-498-5690.

Mar. 30–Apr. 7 – Spring Break at Six Flags Over Georgia, Austell. 770-948-9290.

Apr. 13–Jun. 2 – Renaissance Festival.

Fairburn. 770-964-8575.

8 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Photo credit: Staticflickr.com

METRO ATLANTA

Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth The Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth, Georgia, showcases the colorful history that railroads and transportation played in shaping both Atlanta and North Georgia. The 35-acre museum is home to more than 90 pieces of historic railroad equipment, buses and artifacts that bring to life the region’s transportation history. The state designated the museum “Georgia’s Official Transportation History Museum.”

Many of the historic railroad cars and locomotives on display are open for guests to climb aboard and explore. Visitors can buy tickets to ride on a train made up of vintage cabooses or purchase a cab ride and join the engineer as he operates the train around the property.

Among the rail cars on display is The Superb, a Pullman Co.-built private car President Warren G. Harding used during his 1923 “Voyage of Understanding.” Harding died before finishing the trip, and the car carried the president’s coffin to Washington, D.C., for the state funeral and then to Marion, Ohio, for his burial. The car is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The museum hosts special events throughout the year, including an annual photo contest in February, Caboose Days (in conjunction with and new this year, Steak Cookoff) March 23-24, the Fast Track 5K May 11, Locomotive Celebration in June, Train-or-Treat in October and Polar Express Experience in December. For more information about the exhibits, prices and special events, visit www.SoutheasternRailwayMuseum.org.

Ongoing Spring Events May 1, 15 – Blue Sky Concerts, Decatur, Wed., 12-1pm. 404-371-8386.

May 4, 11, 18, 25 – Concerts on the Decatur Square, Sat., 7-9pm. 404-371-8386.

May 9–Jun. 2 – Southeastern Designer Show​house & Gardens, 2805 Normandy Dr. NW. 404-252-6670.

March 1-2 - Folk to Fine Art Festival, Commerce Civic Center. 706-335-6417.

2 – Daffodil Day, Oakland Cemetery, Atlanta.

11am-3pm. 404-658-6019.

7-10 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000.

9-10 – Opening Weekend at Six Flags Over Georgia, Austell. 770-948-9290.

15 – St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Olde Town Conyers. 4:30pm & World’s Shortest Endurance Run. Conyers Welcome Center, 5:30pm. www.

VisitConyersGA.com.

15-17 – American Craft Show, Two Gallaria Parkway, Atlanta, 800-836-3470/612-206-3100.

16 - St. Patrick Day Parade, Peachtree St. @ 16th St. 770-805-8015.

16 – St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Midtown, noon-1:30pm, 404-504-6884.

16 – St. Patrick’s Day in Smyrna. 678-701-6114.

17 – Ga. Marathon & Half Marathon, Centennial Olympic Park, 7am-2pm.

20-24 – Atlanta International Auto Show, Ga. World Congress Center. 770-916-1741.

23–24 – Cherry Blossom Festival, Ga. Int’l Horsepark, Conyers. 770-860-4190.

23-24 – Caboose Days & Steak Cookoff. www.SoutheasternRailwayMuseum.org.

Ride Into History

-Explore vintage railroad equipment displayed over 35 acres -Learn how railroads helped shape the state and the country -Perfect for your next birthday or special event

Events this Spring:

Caboose days & Steak Cookoff March 22-23

Fast Track 5K May 11

Southeastern Railway Museum Georgia’s Transportation History Museum

Duluth, Georgia SoutheasternRailwayMuseum.org

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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M E T R O A T L A N T A

M E T R O A T L A N T A

Spring. . . Conyers Style World’s Fastest Growing St. Patrick’s Day Parade Parade Shenanigans will be had... Everyone’s Irish for the day in the World’s Fastest Growing St. Patrick’s Day Parade that will take place on Friday, March 15 at 4:30pm in Olde Town Conyers. This is a two-block walking parade and everybody is encouraged to meet at the corner of Main and Center streets prior to 4:30pm to join in this annual tradition.

There is an annual crowning of children’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade king and queen, a Leprechaun Lookalike Contest for adults, and a pet costume contest at the conclusion of the parade.

Prizes will be awarded! There are also complimentary Irish-themed refreshments at the Olde Town Pavilion.

Following the parade is the 10th Annual World’s Shortest Endurance Run sponsored by the Rotary Club of Rockdale County. The run, .1 mile in length from the Conyers Welcome Center to The Pointe on Railroad Street, begins with a shotgun start at 5:30pm (new time!) and participants who enter will receive a T-shirt.

Businesses in Olde Town will offer great deals on merchandise as well as food and drink specials for parade attendees. City parking at 954 NE Main Street, Conyers GA. Call 770-602-2606, or www.VisitConyersGA.com.

Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival Weekend We are Tickled Pink to invite you to our Spring Celebration, the Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival March 23-24, held at the legendary Georgia International Horse Park! Shop among hundreds of unique art and craft exhibitors, eat your way through the multiple food courts, enjoy cultural performances, listen to live music, and play in the children’s area.

For more details – www.ConyersCherryBlossomFest.com. Festival Hours: Sat. & Sun. 10am-5pm. Fees: Admission is Free with $5 daily parking; Weekend parking passes are available for $8; Tour Buses: $8 daily fee; No Pets Please!

Taste of Conyers & Car Show Come hungry for the Taste of Conyers, an annual signature event hosted by the city of Conyers that promotes local restaurants in and around Conyers and the historic Olde Town district. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 11am-4pm. Admission is free!

The Taste of Conyers introduces residents and visitors to the delicious entrees, appetizers and desserts offered around town. Samples can be purchased directly from the participating restaurants and they range in price from $1-$3.

Along with a variety of food sampling opportunities and live entertainment, we’ve partnered with Redline Events for the Conyers Car Show that takes place simultaneously with the Taste event. Entertainment takes place on the Depot Stage. City parking at 954 NE Main Street, Conyers. Call 770-602-2606, or CONYERS, GEORGIA www.VisitConyersGA.com.

Celebrate With Us!

FRIDAY, MARCH 15

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Shenanigans start at 4:30 p.m.

FREE Admission & Parking

MARCH 23 - 24, 2019 10 A.M. - 5 P.M.

FREE Admission & $5 Parking ConyersCherryBlossomFest.com

SATURDAY, MAY 4 11 A.M. - 4 P.M.

& Car Show

Food • Music • Kids Activities FREE Admission & Parking

901 RAILROAD ST, CONYERS GA 30012 1-800-CONYERS • VisitConyersGA.com Download the free mobile app - Guide to Conyers

April 6 – International Pillow Fight Day. Atlanta Grant Park. 3pm-6pm.

6-7 – Acworth Art Festival. 800-451-3480.

6-7 – Festival on Ponce, Parks on Ponce de Leon Avenue. 404-845-0793.

11-14 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000.

12-14 – Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Piedmont Park. 404-876-4024.

12-14 – Georgia Trust Spring Ramble, Thomasville. 404-881-9480.

13 – Craft Savvy Market Spring 2019, Decatur Rec. Dept. 12n-5pm. 404-377-0494.

10 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

METRO M AT

Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival

The Spring Jonquil Festival will be held April 27-28 in downtown Smyrna the VillageMark E Scott onAntique Green next to Smyrna Market Village and will feature over 175 handmade arts and crafts The Scott Antique Market at the Atlanta Expo Ce booths, a featured antique fine artsshow section, festival foods, a book sale, T and features two buildings (366,000 s and children’s activities. There will be live musicshopping, as well as andR a co local entertainment on the stage in front of the library. pretty much every O A Crawfish Boil hosted by the Smyrna Market up atVillage the Scott Anti Merchants will be held in Market Village on Saturday andart, stun ware, rare jewelry, and much Sunday (www.smyrnacrawfishboil.com).

A The8am Scott Antiq The Jonquil City Jog, a 5K Run/Walk, will be Saturday treasure hunt,” at City Hall. There will be a Tot Trot, Fun Run, and Fitness Talw every month at the Walk. Registration is 7am. Register at www.active.com. at Exit 55. Parking L Festival hours will be Sat. 10am-6pm and Sun.12n-5pm. mentary shuttle go Admission is free. Take I-75 to Exit 260; go west 3 miles; turn left onto Atlanta Road; Thursdays festival will12:45-6 A be one mile on right. For more information, call 770-434-6600, or visit www.SmyrnaGa.gov.

April 13-14 – Big Shanty Festival, Downtown Kennesaw. 770-423-1330.

20-21 - Sandy Springs Artsapalooza. 866511-7742.

21 – Easter Sunrise Service, Stone Mtn. Park, 7am. (Park opens at 4am). 770-498-5690.

26-28 – Inman Park Festival & Tour of Homes. 404-577-4212.

27-28 – Smyrna Jonquil Festival, Village Green, Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 12n-5pm. 770-4346600.

27-28 – WWII Heritage Days, Peachtree City’s Falcon Field. 9am-4pm. www.WWIIDays.org.

May 3-5 – Shaky Knees Music Festival, Centennial Olympic Park. 404-233-4412.

4 – Taste of Conyers & Car Show, 11am4pm. 770-602-2606 4 – Derby Day, Chastain Horse Park, 2pm.

404-252-4244.

4 – Roswell Spring Arts & Crafts Festival, 10am, Roswell City Hall. 404-614-0006.

4-5 – Snellville Days Festival, Briscoe Park, 10am-6pm. 770-985-3535.

9-12 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000.

10-11 – Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival, Cauble Park, Lake Acworth. 770-917-1234.

11 – Fast Track 5k. 8-11am. Downtown Duluth. 770-476-2013. www.SoutheasternRailway Museum.org.

11 – Taste of Conyers & Car Show. 11am4pm. 770-602-2606. www.VisitConyersGA.com.

11 – 4th Annual Let Your Light Shine Out​ doors Festival. 12:30pm. Piedmont Park. www.

imaniwithinfoundation.org.

11-12– Dunwoody Arts Festival, Dunwoody Farmhouse. 678-244-9800.

17-19 – Marietta Greek Festival, Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church. 770-924-8080.

26-27 – Atlanta Jazz Festival, Piedmont Park. 404-546-7246.

31-June 2 – Smokin’ Bike Fest. Shakerag Complex, Peachtree City. 578-770-1750.

June 6-9 - Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000.

Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival The City of

April 27 & 28

Saturday, 10-6 & Sunday, 12-5

• Arts & Crafts Festival with over 175 booths • Food • Book Sale • Live Entertainment • Children’s Area • Puppet Show and the

Jonquil City Jog April 28th

5K Run/Walk 8am, Saturday

770-434-6600

www.SmyrnaGa.gov

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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N T A

It’s all about . . .

Gardens and Nature Massee Lane Gardens — A Southern Classic Springtime is the perfect time to enjoy strolling through Massee Lane Gardens near Fort Valley. Late season camellias are plentiful in the seven specialty camellia gardens. The Marvin Jernigan native azalea garden, with its delicate and fragrant pink, yellow, orange, and orange-red blossoms, puts on a show from late March through early May. Pitcher plants, wild orchids, and venus fly traps in the bog garden welcome spring to the fifteen-acre Brown and Hall Environmental Garden.

Many rare and endangered plants native to the Southeast nestle among the pines alongside the walking paths encircling a 2.4 acre pond. Dr. Dan and Muriel Nathan’s screened-in pavilion is a perfect spot for a family picnic and for observing wildlife. This unique botanical garden illustrates the diversity of plant life in habitats ranging from the lake to the upland forest.

An International Garden of Excellence, headquarters of the American Camellia Society, and member of the American Camellia Trail and the Georgia Camellia Trail, Massee Lane Gardens also features a landscaped greenhouse, gift shop, and two galleries showcasing the largest collection of Boehm sculptural Ongoing Spring Events porcelains in the U.S. Groups of ten or more may make reservations for a professionally March-April – Tulips, Daffodils, guided tour, and golf cart tours can be schedCrocus in Bloom at Atlanta Botanical uled for small groups.

Garden.

For more information or directions, visit March-Late-season Camellias in www.americancamellias.com or call 877Bloom at Massee Lane Gardens, Fort 422-6355.

Valley.

Mar. 1-31 – Daffodil Colorfest – Gibbs Gardens, Ball Ground.

Mar. 2-May 25 – Organ Concerts, Callaway Gardens, Sat. & Sun. 2-4pm.

Mar. 2-3, Apr. 6-7 – Orchid Market Weekends, Atlanta Botanical Garden, 10am-4pm.

Mar. 22-24 – Plant Fair and Sale at Callaway Gardens.

Mar. 22-April 28 – Azalea Season at Callaway Gardens.

Thru Apr. 7 – Orchid Daze, Atlanta 100 MASSEE LANE Botanical Garden.

FORT VALLEY, GEORGIA 31030 April – Late-season Camellias, Native (877) 422-6355 Azaleas, and Pitcher Plants in Bloom at WWW.AMERICANCAMELLIAS.COM Massee Lane Gardens, Fort Valley.

12 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Sacred Heart Garden Festival, Augusta Sacred Heart Garden Festival, scheduled for April 26-28, is Augusta’s premier Garden Festival and was named as a Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event. On Thursday, April 25, patrons join together for the evening premiere of the Festival featuring fine cuisine, musical entertainment and the first glimpse of extraordinary exhibits created by garden professionals.

The Festival officially opens on Friday, April 26, and features floral & landscape exhibits, a Speaker Series with Gerald Stephens of Nurseries Caroliniana, Karin Jeffcoat of Cote Designs, and other experts and a Vendor Market of unique plants, garden accents and antiques. In addition, extraordinary private gardens will be open for patrons to explore intriguing varieties of foliage, innovative gardening techniques and a mixture of designs.

The 2019 Festival is brimming with experiences including a live, interactive Butterfly House exhibit, Friday Night Garden Party, Seedling Saturday with hands-on activities for children, Sunday Vendor Trunk Show, a Garden Tea with Greg Campbell, co-owner of Memphis’s Garden District, and more.

For information, visit www.SacredHeartGardenFestival.com or phone 706-826-4700.

Ongoing Spring Events

May – Day Lilies, Hydrangeas, Hibiscus, Azaleas, and Native Wildflowers in Bloom at Massee Lane Gardens, Fort Valley.

March

1 – Atlanta Blooms! Atlanta Botanical Garden

1 – Decorative Mosaic Workshop, Hills & Dales Estate, LaGrange.

2 – Orchid Market Weekends. Atlanta Botanical Garden.

2 – Astronomy Night “Little Grand Canyon”. 5:30pm-7:30pm, Providence Canyon, Lumpkin, 229-88-4706.

8-10 – Orchid Society Show, Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Garden & Nature Centers in Georgia

• Ashantilly Center, Darien. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 912-437-4473 • Atlanta Botanical Garden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-876-5859 • Autrey Mill Nature Preserve/Ctr., Johns Creek.678-366-3511 • Bamboo/Coastal Gdns., Savannah. . . . . . . . . . . 912-921-5460 • Barrington Hall, Roswell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-640-3855 • Big Haynes Creek Nature Center, Conyers. . . . 770-860-4190 • Birdsong Nature Ct., Thomasville . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-953-bird • Callaway Gardens, Pine Mtn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-Callaway • Chattahoochee Nat. Ctr., Roswell . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-992-2055 • Cochran Mill Nature Ctr., Palmetto. . . . . . . . . . . 770-306-0914 • Columbus Botanical Garden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 706-327-8400 • Dunwoody Nature Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-394-3322 • Elachee Nature Center, Gainesville . . . . . . . . . . 770-535-1976 • Flint RiverQuarium, Albany. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229-639-2650 • Ga. Mt. Research Ctr., Blairsville . . . . . . . . . . . . . 706-745-2655 • Ga. Nature Center, Watkinsville. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 706-769-1000 • 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 • Mill Creek Nature Center, Buford. . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-787-7887 • Oatland Island, Savannah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 912-395-1212 • Oxbow Meadows, Columbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 706-507-9550 • Phinizy Swamp, Augusta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 706-828-2109 • Sandy Creek Nature Center, Athens. . . . . . . . . . 706-613-3615 • Smithgall Woods, Helen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 706-878-3087 • State Botanical Garden, Athens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 706-542-1244 • Tybee Island Marine Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 912-786-5444

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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G A R D E N S A N D N A T U R E

G A R D E N S A N D

Douglasville’s Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival We hope you join us for the 12th Annual Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival June 1 & 2 in Douglasville, Douglas County, Georgia!

The Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival is held each year in the month of June, when Douglasville becomes the Hydrangea Capitol of the South. It is a two-day outdoor/indoor event known by its award-winning Standard Flower Show.

The Festival’s new location is Douglas County High School, 8705 Campbellton Street, Douglasville, GA. The Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival is a nationally recognized and award-winning Festival bringing thousands of festival-goers to share in their love and appreciation of the flowering plant and artisans’ crafts. For more information you can email us at info@ hydrangeafest.org or visit online at www.hydrangeafest.org.

March

N 8-19 – Spring Arts on the Great 9am-5pm. Gibbs Gardens.

A Lawn, 16 – Old Timey Plant Sale, Birdsong T Nature Ctr., Thomasville. 229-377-4408 30 – Easter Bunny Wreaths, Hills & U Dales Estate, LaGrange.

R April E Apr. 9 – Shade Gardening. Atlanta Botanical Garden.

23 – Earth Day. Atlanta Botanical Garden.

26-27 – NOGS Tour of Hidden

Gardens, Savannah. www.gardenclubof savanna.org.

26-28 – Sacred Heart Garden Festival, Augusta. 706-826-4700.

May 11 – Picnic in the Garden, Hills & Dales Estate, LaGrange.

June 1-2 – Penny McHenry Hydrange Festival, Douglasville. Douglas County High School. www.hydrangeafest.org.

www.hydrangeafest.org

14 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Celebrate Mother’s Day with Mother Nature Eight Ways to Make Memories with Mom in Georgia’s State Parks

Bask in the beauty of Mother Nature alongside Mom this Mother’s Day and enjoy the springtime scenery on display at Georgia’s state parks. Show Mom a day unlike any other with a Mother’s Day extravaganza provided by a plethora of unique amenities available to guests. Below are eight ideas for a memorable Mother’s Day that will make outdoorsy moms smile. To find more family friendly outings, visit GaStateParks.org.

Go On An Adventure

If Mom likes a thrill, try something new and adventurous. Choose from archery classes, geocaching, kayaking, stand-up paddleboard classes, ziplining, horseback riding or even mountain biking. Many parks offer rentals and classes for all abilities. Check explore.GaStateParks.org/events and GaStateParks.org/ParkActivities to find something that will get Mom’s heart racing.

Sightsee from the Falls

Get those steps in for a view worth writing home about. Travel with Mom to one of the many state parks with waterfalls that offer jaw dropping views and the perfect backdrop for photos. Venture to the overlooks at Tallulah Gorge State Park, Amicalola Falls State Park, Cloudland Canyon State Park and more, to snap a frameworthy photo with Mom. Plan before you go and learn about some of Georgia’s most buzzworthy waterfalls here GaStateParks.org/Hiking.

Join a Club with Mom

Why limit Mother’s Day to just a day? Pick up a new hobby with Mom and join one of Georgia State Park’s quest challenges. From Canyon Climbers Club, to the Muddy Spokes Club, Park Paddlers Club and Tails on Trails Dog-Walking Club, there is something for every mom, regardless of outdoor skill level or interest. Make it a goal to complete an activity a month to recreate Mother’s Day all year long. GaStateParks.org/ParkClubs.

Picnic in the Park

Give Mom a break from packing lunches by packing a picnic basket just for her. All of Georgia’s State Parks have picnic tables with pretty views. This is the perfect gift for families on a budget since picnic tables are free and parking is just $5. Larger families can rent enclosed group shelters or open-air shelters for an all-day potluck or family reunion. Find a picnic spot near you at GaStateParks.org/map.

Go “Glamping”

Adventurous moms will get a thrill out of “glamping” in a yurt. Six Georgia State Parks offer these accommodations which are like a combination between a tent and a cabin. After toasting s’mores by the campfire, everyone will sleep cozy on soft beds inside, then wake to the sounds of songbirds outside. Reserve yurts, cabins or campsites at GaStateParks.org/reservations.

Stroll Through History

Is Mom a history buff? Georgia’s State Historic Sites offer not only a look into our past, but also educational walking trails. Explore the salt marsh around colonial Fort Morris, scout for wildlife at New Echota’s beaver pond or climb to the top of an ancient mound at Etowah. Not only will Mom learn about Georgia history, she’ll enjoy beautiful scenery as well. Discover Georgia’s historic sites at GaStateParks.org/history.

Take a Walk in the Woods

Keep an eye out for birds, butterflies and blooms while on a nature hike. Families can set out on their own along well-marked trails or join ranger-led hikes. Find stroller-friendly paved paths, lakeside loops and challenging treks at GaStateParks.org/ParkActivities. A calendar of ranger-led excursions is listed at explore.

GeorgiaStateParks.org/events.

Gifts for Mom that Keep on Giving

If you can’t resist wrapping a present, consider a gift card, annual ParkPass or membership to Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites. Gift cards can be used on cabins, yurts, gift shops, kayak rental, bike rental, golf green fees, historic site admission and many other outdoor activities. Annual passes are $50 and provide free parking at more than 40 state parks. Friends membership begins at $55 and provides an annual pass plus additional discounts. Find details at GaStateParks.org and www.FriendsofGaStateParks.org.

New to the Georgia State Parks & Historic sites website, guests can now purchase historic site annual passes online, making it even easier to pull off the perfect surprise for Mom. One pass covers all the historic sites’ admission and guarantees a day of fun for the entire family. GaStateParks.org/ThingsToKnow.

Photo: Cloudland Canyon overlook

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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G A R D E N S A N D N A T U R E

It’s ACTOR’S EXPRESS

Atlanta, 404-607-show, www.actors-express.com Mar. 22-Apr. 28 Falsettos May 2 The Reveal

ACT 1 THEATER

Alpharetta, 770-663-8989, www.act1theater.com Mar. 23 You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown Apr. 12-27 The Complete Works of

William Shakespeare

AGATHA’S

Atlanta, 404-584-2211, www.agathas.com Thru Apr. 24 Gimme Liberty or Gimme Death

ALLIANCE THEATRE

Atlanta, 404-733-5000, www.alliancetheatre.org Thru Mar. 10 Goodnight, Tyler Mar. 9-Apr. 7 Gimme Please!

Mar. 9-Apr. 14 The Wizard of Oz Mar. 20-Apr. 14 Angry, Raucous and

Shamelessly Gorgeous Apr. 5-28 Approval Junkie May 1-26 Ride the Cyclone

ART PLACE

Marietta, 770-509-2700, www.theartplace.us Mar. 21 Murderous Crossing Mar. 22-23 Murderous Crossing dinner theatre

ART STATION Stone Mountain, 770-469-1105, www.artstation.org May 2-19 Love and Money ARTISTIC CIVIC THEATRE

Dalton, 706-278-4796, www.actdalton.org Mar. 22-24, 28-30 The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee May 3-4 ACT Presents: A Big Band Revue

ATHENS COMMUNITY THEATER

Music & Dance ATLANTA BALLET

404-873-5811, www.atlantaballet.com Mar. 22-24 Look/Don’t Touch Apr. 12-13 City Springs Apr. 13-14 Beauty and the Beast May 10-12 Director’s Choice

ATLANTA LYRIC THEATRE

Marietta, 404-377-9948, www.atlantalyrictheatre.com Mar. 16 Back Again Apr. 12-28 Singin’ In The Rain

ATLANTA OPERA

404-881-8801, www.atlantaopera.org Mar. 2-10 Eugene Onegin Mar. 28-31 Marie de Buenos Aires Arp. 27-May 5 La traviata

ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 404-733-4900, www.atlantasymphony.org (Check website to find complete listing.)

Mar. 3 An Evening with David Foster Mar. 6 Jonathan Biss plays Beethoven Mar. 15-16 Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in concert Mar. 21, 23 Strauss & Brahms Mar. 28, 29 Beethoven’s Triple Delight Apr. 7 Patti LaBelle with ASO Apr. 19 John Cusack LIVE May 3 India Arie: The Worthy Tour May 5 Tom Jones Live May 17-18 Jaws in concert May 22 Jonathan Biss plays Beethoven

AUGUSTA PLAYERS

706-826-4704 www.augustaplayers.org May 10-12 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER

706-632-9223, blueridgecommunitytheater.com Mar. 2 Randall Bramblett Mar. 7-24 Making God Laugh Apr. 11-28 The Prisoner of Second Avenue May 16-Jun. 2 Boeing Boeing

706-548-3854, www.townandgownplayers.org Apr. 5 Ripcord 16 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Tales from the Altamaha 2019 production “Fables, Fallacies & Unfounded Fears” Tales from the Altamaha is celebrating 15 years April 25-May 4, 2019, in downtown Lyons, Georgia, at the historic Blue Marquee Theater, 121 N State St. (US Hwy #1) with Fables, Fallacies & Unfounded Fears. This award-winning Georgia folk-life play is drawn from the writings of Colonel T. Ross Sharpe, a local attorney born and raised on the Altamaha River, who wrote a series of essays in the local newspaper during the 1950’s and 60’s about the settlers of the area around the river. Since 2005, Tales from the Altamaha has entertained audiences from all over the world with a different selection of Colonel Ross’ stories interwoven with traditional music performed by the River Rat Review Band. Once again you will have the opportunity to be transported back to a time when Southern traditions were just being forged.

A project of Lyons Main Street, Tales from the Altamaha continues to be a cultural celebration steeped in the Southern traditions unique to rural South Georgia. Make plans now to embark on the ride of a lifetime as you experience the lives, loves, losses, scandals, and just plain ol’ gossip that are Tales from the Altamaha.

Tickets are for sale online and range in price from $10-$20. Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more. For more information, phone 912-526-6445, e-mail lyonsmainstreet@ gmail.com, or visit www.talesfromthealtamaha.com. “Like” us on Facebook!

CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS

Atlanta, 404-873-3391, www.puppet.org Thru Mar. 10 Paul Bunyon and

The Tell Tale Medicine Show Mar. 12-17 The Joshua Show Mar. 19-31 Galapagos George,

The Little Tortoise That Could Apr. 2-May 26 Harold and The Purple Crayon Apr. 13 Randel McGee and Groark

DALTON LITTLE THEATRE

706-226-6618, www.daltonlittletheatre.com Mar. 8-10, 15-17 A Night of One Acts Mar. 22-24 Looking for Normal Apr. 26-28, May 2-4 Beyond Therapy

GAINESVILLE THEATRE ALLIANCE

678-717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org Apr. 9-20 Cabaret Apr. 12-15 The Kiss

GEORGIA ENSEMBLE THEATRE

Roswell, 770-641-1260, www.get.org Thru Mar. 17 Driving Miss Daisy Apr. 11-28 Bullets Over Broadway The Musical

HABERSHAM COMMUNITY THEATER Clarkesville,

706-839-1315, www.habershamtheater.org Apr. 5-14 Deadly Murder May 30-Jun. 9 I Do, I Do

HISTORIC HOLLY THEATRE Dahlonega, 706-864-3759, www.hollytheater.com Mar. 15-17 Cherry Cherry Apr. 13 A Journey Tribute May 3-19 Mamma Mia!

HISTORIC RITZ THEATRE

Brunswick, 912-262-6934, www.goldenislesarts.org Apr. 28 The Classic Nashville Roadshow,

Starring Jason Petty and Katie Deal

LAFAYETTE THEATRE ACADEMY

LaGrange, 706-882-9909, www.lsparts.org, Mar. 1-3 Azalea Storytelling Festival Mar. 15-17, 21-23 Once Upon a Time ballet Mar. 21-23 Jungle Book May 2-5, 9-10 The Odd Couple, Female Version

MACON LITTLE THEATRE

478-471-plsy, www.maconlittletheatre.org Mar. 22-31 The Secret Garden May 3-12 The Miracle Worker

MORTON THEATRE

Athens, 706-613-3771, www.mortontheatre.com Mar. 16 A Cappella 2019 Tourn. Semifinals Mar. 20 The Banff Mountain File

Festival World Tour Mar. 29 Caribbean Night 2019 Apr. 12 The Hunchback of Notre Dame Apr. 13 The CK of Athens Comedy

Benefit Show

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T H E A T R E 

M U S I C 

D A N C E

T NEW AMERICAN SHAKESPEARE H THEATRE TAVERN Atlanta www.shakespearetavern.com E 404-874-5299, Mar. 2-24 Henry the Fifth A Mar. 29-Apr. 7 William Luces Barrymore T Apr. 13-May 5 Hamlet 11-26 Maxwell Anderson’s R May

Anne of The 1000 Days E NEW DEPOT PLAYERS Conyers



678-374-3224, www.thenewdepotplayers.com Mar. 1-3 Farce of Habit

M NEWNAN THEATRE COMPANY U 770-683-6282 www.newnantheatre.org 7-17 The Boys Next Door S Mar. Apr. 11-21 The Drawer Boy The Sound of Music I May 9-19 C PERRY PLAYERS 

478-987-5354, www.perryplayers.org Apr. 25-May 12 Hello Dolly The Musical

D ROME LITTLE THEATRE www.romelittletheatre.com A 706-295-7171, Mar. 22-31 Anything Goes N Apr. 26-May 5 The Diary of Anne Frank C SAVANNAH THEATRE E 912-233-7764, www.savannahtheatre.com Thru Mar. 3 Mar. 20-May 22 Mar. 6-Jun. 29

World of Illusion The Piano Men Savannah Live

SOUTHSIDE THEATRE GUILD Fairburn, 706-324-5714, www.springeroperahouse.org May 2-12 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

SERENBE PLAYHOUSE

Chattahoochee Hills, 770-463-1110, www.serenbeplayhouse.com Mar. 13-Apr. 7 Shenandoah May 8-Jun. 9 Ragtime

SPRINGER THEATRE Columbus, 706-324-5714, www.springeroperahouse.org Thru Mar. 10 101 Dalmatians Mar. 8-24 Evita Apr. 4-14 Driving Miss Daisy May 3-19 Million Dollar Quartet STAGE DOOR PLAYERS Dunwoody, 770-396-1726, www.stagedoorplayers.net Mar. 22-Apr. 14 Secrets of a Soccer Mom May 24-Jun. 16 Ain’t Misbehaving’ SWAMP GRAVY Colquitt,

229-758-5450, www.swampgravy.com Mar. 1-23 Fourth and Long May 3-12 Mamma Mia!

SYNCHRONICITY THEATRE Atlanta, 404-484-8636, www.synchrotheatre.com Apr. 11-May 5 The Hero’s Wife

THEATRE ALBANY

229-439-7193, www.theatrealbany.com Mar. 22-24, 28-31 Boeing Boeing May 31-June 2, 6-9 Sister Act

THEATRE GUILD VALDOSTA

229-247-8243, theatreguildvalkdosta.com Mar. 21-22, 28-30 A Little Murder Never Hurt Anybody May 10-11, 17-18 Winnie the Pooh

TALES FROM THE ALTAMAHA Lyons 912-526-6445, www.talesfromthealtamaha.com Apr. 25-May 4 Fables, Fallacies & Unfounded Fears THEATRE MACON

478-746-9485, www.theatremacon.com Mar. 8-17 High School Musical

THEATRICAL OUTFIT

Atlanta, 678-528-1500, www.theatricaloutfit.org Thru Mar. 24 The Pitman Painters Apr. 10-May 5 I Love To Eat May 29-Jun. 30 Five Guys Named Moe

WARNER ROBINS LITTLE THEATRE

478-929-4579, www.wrlt.org Mar. 1-2 The Sisters Rosensweig Apr. 19-28, May 2-4 Mystery, Mayhem and Murder Events sometimes change, so please phone for information before driving long distances.

18 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

It’s All About Venues in Georgia AUGUSTA ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX

706-722-3521, augustaentertainmentcomplex.com Mar. 1 Tedeschi Trucks Band Mar. 3 Wine Women & Shoes Mar. 8 For King & Country Mar. 9 Celtic Women Mar. 14 The Sound of Music Mar. 15 K C & The Sunshine Band Mar. 21 Winter Jam 2019 Mar. 22 The Price is Right Live Mar. 30 Legend of Hip Hop Mar. 31 Sesame Street Live! Let’s Party!

Apr. 27 Kalsea Ballerini: Miss Me More

Tour with Brett Young Apr. 28 Chicago: Musical May 19 R. B. R. M. – Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky,

and Mike – Friends Tour May 21 Paw Patrol: “Race to the Rescue”

COLUMBUS CIVIC CENTER

706-494-8330, www.columbusciviccenter.org Mar. 23 Kevin Gates & Friends Mar. 27 Sesame Street LIVE Apr. 11-14 Disney on Ice DARE to DREAM

FOX THEATRE

Athens, 800-918-6393, www.classiccenter.com Mar. 2 Clash of the Champions Mar. 28 The Temptations and The Four Tops Apr. 4 Come On Down! The Price Is Right May 18 Jeanne Robertson

Atlanta, 404-881-2100, www.foxtheatre.org Mar. 1-3 Les Miserables Mar. 5 Mariah Carey Mar. 8 AllStar Legends of Hip Hop Mar. 9 Experience Hendrix Mar. 14 Celtic Women: Ancient Land Mar. 22-24 Jersey Boys Mar. 26 The Price is Right Live!

Apr. 2 Why Don’t We Apr. 5-7 Rogers & Hammerstien’s Cinderlla Apr. 10 Two Cellos Apr. 11 Sabastian Mansicalco Apr. 12 Derek Hough: Live!

Apr. 13 2nd Annual Atlanta Blues Festival Apr. 14 John Crist Apr. 18-19 Aziz Ansari Apr. 20 Dungeon Family Tour 2019 Apr. 23-28 Dear Evan Hansen May 3 Al Green May 8 Judas Priest: FIREPOWER 2019 May 9 Double Dare Live!

May 11 Eddie Izzard May 12-13 Greta Van Fleet May 23-26 Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Farewell Tour

COBB ENERGY CENTRE

GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FAIRGROUNDS

CHASTAIN PARK AMPHITHEATER

Atlanta, 888-292-8495, www.chastaintickets.com Apr. 20 Whitesnake May 18 The 1975 May 26 Styx

CLASSIC CENTER

Atlanta, 770-916-2800, cobbenergycentre.com Mar. 2-10 Eugene Onegin Mar. 11 Dr.Kaboom!AndTheWorldofScience Mar. 14 K C & The Sunshine Band Mar. 15-16 Jeff Foxworthy Mar. 17 Amos Lee Mar. 22-24 Look Don’t Touch Mar. 25 Carol Burnett Mar. 28 The Very Hungry Caterpillar Mar. 29 Kristin Chenoweth Mar. 30 The Temptations and The Four Tops Apr. 1 Jackson Browne Apr. 3 Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Apr. 4 Parliament Fundadelic Apr. 5-14 Shen Yun 2019 Apr. 27-May 5 La Traviata May 10-12 Director’s Choice May 15 Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical May 17 Amanda Palmer

Hiawassee, 706-896-4191, www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com Mar. 16-23 Drifters, Coasters & Platters Apr. 6 Hank Williams, Jr. Apr. 13 Big Daddy Weave May 17-18 Ga. Mountain EggFest

ROSWELL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER 770-594-6232. www.roswellgov.com

Mar. 1-17 Driving Miss Daisy Mar. 2, 9, 16 A Wrinkle in Time Mar. 5, 10 And Then They Came For Me:

Remembering the World of Anne Frank

Mar. 11 & Joe Gransden’s Big Band: 2 Fly Me to the Moon Apr. 11-28 Bullets Over Broadway, the Musical Apr. 13, 20, 27 Junie B. Jones is Not A Crook Apr. 22 Joe Gransden’s Big Band:

Fly Me to the Moon

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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20 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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It’s All About . . . .

Peachtree City Celebrates 60th Anniversary

Visitors to our city can rent golf carts and coast at a relaxing 15 miles per hour while enjoying more than 100 miles of paved multi-use paths. Enjoy the sights as you wind through the city to popular dining, recreation and entertainment venues.

Located 25 minutes from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, Peachtree City boasts eight hotels, more than 100 restaurants and multiple recreation and entertainment options.

Peachtree City is celebrating our 60th anniversary this year. As a master-planned community, we boast strategically planned paths, ample greenspace, tree-lined roadways, three sparkling lakes and scenic views.

A great night of rest and relaxation awaits guests at one of our premiere hotels or awardwinning resorts or conference centers. We offer eight hotels from budget-friendly to upmarket that feature a variety of amenities including pools, resort-style dining and more.

Peachtree City features local favorites and a variety of national brand restaurants that include choices of fare from cozy and relaxing to a quick bite. Tastes include world-class fare including cuisine such as French, Mediterranean, South African, Spanish, Mexican and, of course, traditional Southern.

The city features three championship golf courses, two nature trails, three sparkling lakes, a semi-pro soccer team and, ‘The Fred,’ a 2,500-seat amphitheater that hosts household names in music and entertainment. Another special attraction is the Dixie CAF, an aviation museum which features numerous classic planes you can touch and even take a ride in!

In Peachtree City you will find a community with big ideas and big hearts, a place where Southern hospitality meets resort style living, a town that invites you to learn how much better life can be at 15 mph on a golf cart.

Learn more about our unique city by visiting www.visitpeachtreecity.com.

We also have a wonderful array of events coming this spring. Here are a few of our highlights.

World War II Heritage Days Experience the sights and sounds of World War II when the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Dixie Wing hosts the 16th Annual WWII Heritage Days April 27 to 28. The event takes place 9am-4pm at the CAF Dixie Wing Historical Airpower Facility at Peachtree City’s Falcon Field. The event features re-enactors, WWII vehicles, vintage aircraft, authors, WWII Veterans and exhibits as a living history experience for the entire family. Information: www.wwiidays.org.

BMX and Barbecue The PTCBMX (Peachtree City BMX Track) is celebrating its 40th anniversary with an epic party combining BMX racing and a barbecue competition. The three-day event runs May 31, June 1 and June 2.

The event features the renowned KCBS barbecue contest where premier barbecue chefs from across the nation will compete for prizes. Residents who attend the event will have an opportunity to eat a variety of barbecue, other culinary delights, enjoy entertainment and watch BMX races!

The event takes place at the Shakerag Complex in Peachtree City. You can get more information at www.Ptcbmx.com.

22 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Georgia in Springtime

Camp Marimac Charity Bash Meet your favorite characters from AMC’s “The Walking Dead” and support a good cause at this party. The event takes place on May 25 in historic Senoia, home to a variety of film locations of the show. In addition to meeting cast members, the event features food and entertainment.

In lieu of an entry charge for this exclusive event, the founders are requesting attendees to bring non-perishable food items for one of the benefiting charities, Backpack Buddies of Georgia. Tickets are available for free on Eventbrite.

You can find out more about the event on social media, including their facebook page at www.facebook.com/CampMarimacCharityBash.

Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games The Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games on June 8-9 at Meeks Park will celebrate Scottish heritage by showcasing Scottish clans, athletic competitions, music, dance, foods, and merchandise. Festival hours will be 9am-5pm both days with an opening ceremony on Saturday at noon. The Kirkin’o’th Tartans will be held Sunday morning at 9am.

Visitors to the festival will enjoy music from the Pipe and Drum Bands, bagpipes all around the park, other musical groups, demonstrations of traditional Scottish athletic competitions, Falconry, Highland Cattle, Border Collies and sheep, Gordon Setters, axe throw and archery, Clann Nan Con historical reenactors, and children’s games.

Scheduled performers will be Colin Grant-Adams, The Blarney Girls, The Oatcakes, humorist Robert Valentine, Royal Scottish Country Dancers, and the Glencoe Highland Dancers. Pipe & Drum bands to appear are Atholl Highlanders, Alhambra Highlanders, Appalachian St. Andrews, North Atlanta, and John Mohr MacKintosh P&D. The Gaelic Gallop, a 5K race/1 mile Fun Run/Walk will be June 8. Registration begins at 7am at the North Georgia Tech campus across from Meeks Park on Highway 515. The Gaelic Gallop begins at 8am, rain or shine.

Admission will be $10/day or $15/two days with children 12 and under free. For information, see us on Facebook and other social media, or visit www.BlairsvilleScottishFestival.org.

1pm. 866-750-0840.

Mar. 9-Apr. 27 – CORDELE – SAM Shortline Excursion Train, various dates.

Mar. 1-May 31 – WOODBINE – Opry, Call for schedule. 877-ga-rails.

Fri. & Sat., 7-10pm. 912-576-3027.

Mar. 9-May 31 – BLUE RIDGE –​ Mar. 1, Apr. 5, May 3 – BRUNSWICK – Scenic Railway. Call for schedule. Easter First Friday, Dwntwn, 5-8pm. 912-265-4032.

Eggspress Apr. 15. 877-413-8724.

Mar. 2, Apr. 6, May 4 – THOMASVILLE Mar. 10, Apr. 6, 27, 28, May 4 – – 1st Friday, Dwntwn., 6-9pm. 229-277-7020.

SAVANNAH – Philharmonic Orchestra.

Mar. 5, 21 – AUGUSTA – Music Live, 912-525-5050.

St. Paul’s Church, 12 N. 706-722-3463.

Mar. 23-31 – MACON – International Mar. 7, Apr. 4, May 2 – AUGUSTA Cherry Blossom Festival. 478-330-7050.

First Thursday, Shops Along Kings Way. Mar. 28-30 – WINDER – 18th Century 706-773-1788.

Market Faire, Fort Yargo State Park. 770Mar. 9, Apr. 14, May 11 – ALBANY – 867-3481.

Freedom Singers, Civil Rights Institute, March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 23

Ongoing Georgia Events

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.

Ongoing Geogia Events

Mar. 29, Apr. 13, 20, May 18, 25 – ST. MARYS – Railroad Company Train Excursions. 912-200-5235.

Apr. 13-Jun. 2 – FAIRBURN – Renaissance Festival. Weekends. 770-964-8575.

May 2-31 – SAVANNAH – Tea in the Garden, Davenport House, Thurs/Fri. 877-savannah.

May-Sept. – McCAYSVILLE – Every Thursday. Pickin’ in Horseshoe Bend Park, 6pm. 706-632-7696.

June 2-July 2 – PINE MOUNTAIN – FSU Flying High Circus, Callaway Gardens. 800-callaway.

March

1 – TIFTON – Rhythm & Ribs BBQ Festival, Fulwood Park. 229-382-8700.

1-2 – COMMERCE – Folk to Fine Arts Festival, Downtown. 706-335-6417.

1-2 – DAHLONEGA – Dahlonega Literary Festival, 91 N. Park St. 706-867-9607.

1-2 – DUBLIN – Pig in the Park BBQ Contest & Concert. 478-272-5546.

1-3 – VALDOSTA – South Ga. Film Festival, 1500 N. Patterson St. 229-219-1290.

2 – HINESVILLE – Small World Festival. 912-877-4332.

2 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Red Hot Chili Cook-off. 912-261-9595.

2-3 – AUGUSTA – Junior League Attic Sale, Fairgrounds. 706-736-0033.

2, 9 – ST. MARYS – Wild West Express. www.St.MarysRailroad.com.

7-9 – SAVANNAH – Savannah Stopover Music Festival. 877-savannah.

7-10 – BRUNSWICK – Georgia Elvis Festival, Ritz Theatre & other locations.

888-406-5885.

8-9 – BAXLEY – Peaches to Beaches Yard Sale. Various locations. 912367-7731.

8-10 – FORSYTH – Forsythia Festival, Downtown. 478-994-9239.

8-10 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Arts Festival, Historic District. 912-635-3920.

8-19 – PERRY TO JEKYLL – Peaches to Beaches Antiques/Yard Sale (200M).

478-988-8000.

24 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Arts in the Park Festival in Blue Ridge The 43rd Annual Arts in the Park Festival in Blue Ridge on May 25-26 will feature over 175 booths of juried fine art and fine handmade crafts, artists’ demonstrations, and food. Some of the finest artists in the Southeast will be exhibiting paintings, photography, mixed media, jewelry, glass, pottery, woodworking, sculpture, folk art, basketry, metal work, and more. Inside of The Art Center, home to the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, there will be several exhibits on display including the Southern Appalachian Artist’s Guild’s “Celebration of Artisans” Member Show and an art exhibit by Artist-InResidence Margo Locke.

The festival will be held in City Park in historic Downtown Blue Ridge in the North Georgia Mountains. Festival hours will be Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission will be $5 with children12 and under admitted free for the entire weekend.

The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, a non-profit arts council and host of the festival, boasts over 900+ artist members and is housed in the historic County Courthouse.

Located only 90 minutes north of Atlanta, the Art Town of Blue Ridge offers unique shops, galleries, restaurants, craft breweries, community theater, Scenic Railway, drive-in theater, and national forests with a variety of outdoor activities.

For more information, phone 706-632-2144, e-mail blueridgearts@gmail.com, or visit www.blueridgearts.net. For area information, visit festival sponsor, Fannin County Chamber of Commerce at www.blueridgemountains.com or call 706-632-5680.

March

16 – SAVANNAH – St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on River St. 877-savannah.

16 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Christ Church, Federica Annual Tour of Homes.

912-638-8683.

16 – WOODBINE – Satilla Jazz ‘n Arts, Satilla River Waterfront Pk. 912-576-1162.

16-17 – MOULTRIE – Calico Spring Arts and Crafts Show. 229-985-1968.

19-Apr. 19 – LaGRANGE – Follow the Cross Walks. BiblicalHistoryCenter. com. 10am-5pm. 706-885-0363.

22-31 – MACON – International Cherry Blossom Festival, 140 Willie Smokie Glover Dr. 478-330-7050.

23 – CARTERSVILLE – Chuck Wagon Gathering, Booth Museum. 770-387-1300.

23-24 – CONYERS – Cherry Blossom Festival, Ga. Int’l Horse Pk. 770-602-2606.

28-30 – WINDER – Colonial Reenactment. Ft. Yargo State Park. 770-87-3489.

28-31 – SAVANNAH – Tour of Homes and Gardens. 912-234-8054.

30-31 – MACON – Mulberry Street Arts Festival. 478-744-9557.

9 – SAVANNAH – Spring Celebration and Sheep Shearing, Oatland Island Wildlife Center.

9 – TYBEE ISLAND – Irish Heritage Celebration Parade, 3-5pm. 912-238-1453.

9-16 – CONYERS – Tykes, Tots, Teens Consignment Sale, Ga. Int’l Horse Park.

770-483-4411.

14 – FITZGERALD – Thunderstruck in concert, the Grand Theatre. 7:30pm. 800386-4642.

14-16 – FITZGERALD – Wild Chicken Festival. 800-386-4642.

14-18 – DUBLIN – St. Patrick’s Festival, 10-11:30am. 478-272-4002.

15 – CONYERS – St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Olde Town, 4:30pm. 700-783-4411.

15-17 – WAYCROSS – Swamptown Get​ down Music & Arts Festival, Okefenokee Fairgrounds, Waycross. 912-288-3712.

16 – BLUE RIDGE – St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Downtown. 706-455-7686. Concert of Choral Music, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. 706-632-8245.

16 – FORT VALLEY – Peach Blossom Festival, Lane Southern Orchards. 10amApril 5pm. 800-27peach.

2-14 – CLEVELAND – Springtime Fes16 – JULIETTE – Antique Steam Entival at North Ga. Zoo. 706-348-7279. gine Demonstrations, Jarrell Plantation.

5-6 – BLUE RIDGE – Blue Ridge Writ478-986-5172. er’s Conference. 706-632-2144.

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 25

It’s Time! “For the Love of Mud!” at Georgia JugFest Georgia Jug Festival and Old Knoxville Days celebrates annually with a festival bringing history to life on Saturday, May 18. Crawford County and the surrounding area has the right clay and sand mixture sought by artists and jug makers. For more than 100 years, pottery was a huge part of the area’s economy. Now, it is celebrated as a collectible folk art and functional pottery.

A three day family friendly event, May 16-18, begins with the opening of the potter and art exhibit at 6:30pm, May 16. Also included are an Art Show, Bird House Contest Winners presentation, Story Boards of History, and Induction of a potter to the Potters Hall of Fame. Nancy Jones’ beautiful art creation depicting the Potter Celebrated in 2019 will be presented. All is held at Old Courthouse. Story boards are done by Kathleen Cook featuring a wealth of history.

Friday, May 17, The Historical Society Lunch and Learn is sponsored by Champion’s Restaurant and will provide a minds-eye of color to the historic attractions in our county and historic stories of the people to be “food for thought”.

The community wood-burning kiln located in Knoxville and in the Knoxville Bottom, will have been fired up the week before. The pottery from the kiln firing will be on sale the morning of Sat., May 18. Be sure to follow times on this and the auction on www.gajugfestival.com.

The main event on Saturday will feature the pottery exhibit, pottery ID with regional experts, pottery vendors, arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, benefit pottery auction, kiln sale, antique tractor show, quilt show, historical displays and demonstrations on the festival field in the stately “old Courthouse” for your entertainment. Children’s activities, student art exhibit, and historic building tours are going to be part of the family fun for everyone. Most events are free. Parking is free.

For more details, call Roberta Crawford County Chamber of Commerce at 478-8363825 or visit www.gajugfestival.com.

This festival is sponsored by the Roberta/ Crawford County Chamber of Commerce Where History and the Crawford County Historical Society Comes to Life . . . A rain or shine event . . . “For the Love in Knoxville, Ga of Mud!”

& Old Knoxville Days

Family Fun Festival FREE Parking

May 18, 2019

April

5-6 – WAYCROSS – Swampfest, 5-11pm Fri; Sat. 9am-10:30pm. 912-287-2969.

FOR THE LOVE OF MUD 5-7 – DARIEN – Blessing of the Fleet • 5K 1 Mile Fun Run • Demonstrators Festival. 912-437-6684.

5-14 – MACON – Fired Works: Region• Quilt Show • Car/Truck Show • Art Show al Ceramics Exhibit & Sale. 478-743-6940.

• Civil War Reenactors • Kids Area • Exhibits 6 – ATHENS – UGA International Street • Pottery Vendors • Arts & Craft Vendors Festival, Downtown. 706-542-5867.

• Kiln Sale • Pottery Demonstrator • & More 6 – HAWKINSVILLE – Harness Festival. 478-783-1717.

Pre-events on 5/16 & 5/17 6 – IRWINTON – Banana Pudding Fes5/16 Enjoy the Art 5/17 Lunch and Learn tival, 126 East Main St. 478-946-1501.

Show, Bird House held in Musella . . .

6 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Book Festival, Contest, and Potters Have a Great Lunch, 10am-3pm.

Hall of Fame!

Enjoy Door Prizes!

6 – SUMMERVILLE – Depot Spring Market, 10am-3pm. 706-859-0900.

For the Love of MUD! Come Join Us 6 – WASHINGTON – Spring Festival & 478-836-3825 Tour of Homes. 706-678-2013. www.georgiajugfestival.com 8 – HELEN – Taste of the Town, Unicoi Lodge. 800-858-8027.

26 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway All aboard for a trip that will spark kids’ imaginations, adults’ memories, and leave every​one 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 the “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, GA and Copperhill, TN. You will have time to shop, tour, and dine during the layover. Then it’s back to Blue Ridge where you can purchase railroad-inspired souvenirs at the gift shop. The ticket office is in the depot tucked in the charming mountain village of Blue Ridge 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.

April

8-12 – MERIWETHER COUNTY – Open Air Meriwether. Plien-Air Painting.

Various venues. 404-386-1328.

12-14 – PERRY – Hot Air Balloon Rally, Ga. Nat’l Fairgrounds. 478-988-8000.

13 – CLEVELAND – Easter Eggstrava

ganza, Babyland General Hospital, Parade Downtown. 706-865-5356.

13 – HARTWELL – Antique Boat Festival, Marina Road, 10am-3pm. 706-376-5441.

13 – HAZELHURST – Three Rivers Festival, Towns Bluff Park & Heritage Center, 10am-5pm. 912-379-9303.

DISCOVER A NEW ADVENTURE

BLUE RIDGE SCENIC RAILWAY

Book your trip today! brscenic.com 1-877-413-8724 Blue Ridge Scenic Railway @blueridgescenicrailway March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

27

Spring Events in Meriwether Peaches in the Pines

Come One Come All… For the 5th Annual Peaches in the Pines Arts and Music Festival set for Saturday, June 8th, at beautiful Lake Meriwether located in Woodbury, Georgia. This event will include arts, crafts, live music & entertainment, children’s activities and rides, a Peach Recipe Contest and Meriwether Miles Bicycle Ride. The festival will take place from 10am to 6pm and admission is $5 and children under 10 are admitted free.

Visitors will be able to shop from over 40 vendors with a wide variety of arts and craft and delicious food. There will be Georgia grown produce to include peaches and peach ice cream! The children’s activities will include pony rides, carnival rides and inflatables and Helicopter Rides (for a fee).

The Meriwether Miles Bicycle Ride will begin at 8am and entry fee is $25 before May 18th and $30 on Ride Day. For more information on Bicycle Ride contact Gail Coffee at 770-927 2847.

For more information on the Peaches in the Pines Festival contact Rhonda Fuller at 706-672-4016.

Warm Springs’ Spring Fling

Want to experience that small-town movie magic in real life? Make your own special memories at Warm Springs’s annual “Spring Fling” festival on Saturday, April 13! The day will be filled with local and regional crafters, entertainers, food vendors, and children’s activities. Enjoy browsing in our specialty shops and dining in our unique cafes, wine cellars, and restaurants, including the famous Bulloch House, renowned for its traditional Southern favorites.

This charming Victorian town was established in 1896 as Bullochville and renamed Warm Springs in 1936. First visiting in 1924, seeking relief and treatment for his paralysis from polio, President Franklin D. Roosevelt built his “Little White House” in 1932. Nestled at the foot of Pine Mountain, Warm Springs is also home to Georgia’s largest state park and one of two national fish hatcheries in the state.

Come discover all that Warm Springs has to offer! Visit MeriwetherTourism.com, or phone 706-655-3322.

April

19-21 – CLEVELAND – Easter Festival at N. Ga. Zoo. 706-348-7279.

13 – JULIETTE – Antique Steam En20 – BLUE RIDGE – Easter Eggspress, gine Demonstrations, Jarrell Plantation.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. 877-413-8724.

478-986-5172.

20 – BOSTON – Annual Boston Spring 13 – OMAHA – Festival by the Lake/ Fling & Auction, Downtown Historic Dist.

Easter Egg Hunt, Florence Marina, Omaha, 9am-2pm. 229-498-6743.

10am-4pm. 229-838-4706.

20 – COLQUITT – National Mayhaw 13 – TALLAPPOOSA – Dogwood FesFestival. 229-758-2400. tival, Head Ave. 770-574-2482.

20 – CUMMING – Taste of Forsyth, 13 – WARM SPRINGS – Spring Fling.

Cumming Fairgrounds, 11am-5pm. 77010am-5pm. 706-655-3322.

781-3491.

13 – WARWICK – National Grits Fes20 – GREENSBORO – Southland Jubitival. 404-688-0472. lee, Downtown. 706-453-7674.

13-14 – COLUMBUS – Paddle South, 20 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Easter Egg 1320 Bay Ave. 706-681-3162.

Roll, Historic District. 877-4jekyll.

13-14 – PERRY – Dogwood Festival, 20 – METTER – Another Bloomin’ Ga. Nat’l Fairgrounds, Sat. 10am-6pm; Festival. 912-685-2159.

Sun. 12noon-5pm. 478-987-1234.

20 – TIFTON – Arts in Black Festival, 13, 20 – ST. MARYS – Peter Cottontail Fulwood Park, 10am-10pm. 229-329-1386.

Express. www.St.MarysRailroad.com.

28 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Madison in May Spring Tour of Homes & Gardens This celebration of Southern history, architecture, and art will be held in historic Madison, Georgia on May 3-4. Renowned for one of Georgia’s largest designated National Register Historic Districts, Historic Madison will celebrate the spring season in grand style with the region’s most popular tour event: the Madison in May Spring Tour of Homes.

Experience the living history of Madison while strolling through a selection of the city’s cottages and historic homes with vintage charm. This self-guided tour will include distinguished private homes in and around Madison, as well as the 1895 graded school building which houses the Romanesque Madison-Morgan Cultural Center (tour host). Together, these grand structures and gardens tell the story of a genteel, gracious city — Madison, Georgia.

This truly will be a tour to remember! Tour hours will be 10am-5pm, rain or shine.

Ticket prices will be $25/single day and $35/multiple days if purchased through Apr. 30.

Afterward, they will be $30/single day and $40/multiple days. Tour group pricing for 20+ will be $22/single day. For reservations, phone 706-342-4743 or visit www.mmcc-arts.org.

April

25-27 – CARTERSVILLE – N. Ga. Flint Knappers & Primitive Arts Festival. 770304-8760.

25-27 – THOMASVILLE – Rose Show & Festival, various locations. 229-227-7020.

25-28 – VIDALIA – Vidalia Onion Festival. 912-538-8687.

26-27 – CALHOUN – BBQ Boogie & Blues, 300 S. Wall St. 706-625-3200.

26-27 – WOODBINE – Crawfish Festi-

val, Downtown. 912-576-3113.

26-28 – AUGUSTA – Sacred Heart Garden Festival. 706-826-4700.

26-28 – BRASELTON – Antique & Arti-​ san Festival, Downtown. 706-824-7204.

27 – BLUE RIDGE – Trout Festival & Outdoor Adventures, City Park, Downtown.

706-632-5680.

27 – BLUE RIDGE – Bowls of Hope (soup, pottery), Willow Creek Falls, 1-4pm.

706-946-1001.

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

29

Chillin’ n’ on the Choo-Choo in St. Marys On the St. Marys Express, the impossible occurs on a surprisingly regular basis.

An authentic diesel 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 2019 season promises to be more exciting than ever with the addition of the Circus Train in May. Get tickets at www.StMarysRailroad.com or call 912-200-5235.

April

27 – GAINESVILLE – Spring Chicken Festival & Chicken Cook-Off, Downtown, 10am-4pm. 770-297-1141/770-531-6598.

27 – HAWKINSVILLE – 4th Annual Hayneville JamFest. Kingsland Farm, 153 Kingsland Rd., Hawkinsville, 4-11pm. Kingsland Farm hosting. Museum of Aviation Foundation will receive profits as a donation. 478-747-5570.

27 – JOHNS CREEK – Int’l Festival, 1930 Bobby Jones Dr. 404-370-2044.

27 – MADISON – Madison Fest. Town Park. 706-342-1251.

27 – PINE MOUNTAIN – Symphony in the Sand/Columbus Symphony, Callaway Gardens, 8pm.

27 – REYNOLDS – Strawberry Festival Music and Dinner in the Park. Downtown.

478-847-5301.

27-28 – CEDARTOWN – Cedar Valley Arts Festival, N. College St., Fri. 5-9pm; Sat. 10am-5pm; Sun. 10am-6pm. 770-748-3220.

27-28 – CLAYTON – Celebrate Clayton Art Festival, N. Main St. 706-212-9958.

27-28 – DAHLONEGA – Bear on the Square Mountain Festival, 13 S. Park St. 706-864-9007.

May

2-4 – LINCOLNTON – Little Roy & Lizzi Music Festival, Elijah Clark State Park. 706-864-7203.

3-4 – MADISON – May Spring Tour of Homes and Gardens. 706-342-4743.

4 – BLUE RIDGE – Taste of Blue Ridge, Willow Creek Falls. 5-8pm. 706-632-5224.

4 – CARROLLTON – Mayfest Arts & Crafts, 115 Rome St. 770-832-6901.

4 – CONYERS – Taste of Conyers & Conyers Car Show. 11am-4pm. 770-602-2606.

4 – LaGRANGE – Roman Army Day. BiblicalHistoryCenter.com.10am-5pm.

706-885-0363.

4 – LAVONIA – Spring Festival. 706356-8202.

4 – THOMASON – Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival. 706-597-1000.

4 – THOMASVILLE – Kentucky Derby Party, Pebble Hill, 5:30-11pm. 229-226-6016.

4 – TOCCOA – Toast of Toccoa.

12n-5pm. www. mainstreettoccoa.com.

4 – TYBEE ISLAND – Tour of Homes, 10am-4pm. 912-786-5444.

4-5 – CARTERSVILLE – May Market at Rose Lawn. 770-387-5162.

Get Tickets Now!

Ride the

Peter Cottontail Express April 13 & 20 Circus Train May 18 & 25

30 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Visit www.StMarysRailroad.com

Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival We are “Tickled Pink!” to welcome guests to the 38th Annual Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival March 23-24. Shop among the arts and craft exhibitors, eat your way through multiple international food courts, enjoy cultural performances, listen to live music and play in our kid’s zone! Be sure not to miss this year’s highlights, Lady Houdini Escape Artist, Peter Hart Puppet Master and a special visit from the Chick-fil-A Cows!

The Cherry Blossom Festival originated as a way to encourage cultural understanding and friendship through international music, dance, games and crafts.

The cherry blossom is a symbol of short-lived beauty in Japan, and the City of Conyers embraces this tradition as well. The blooming of the cherry trees offers a time to reflect upon our lives. Like the blooming of the trees, life is short, so you have to appreciate and embrace it.

The Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival has received many awards over the years for Best Event in the Southeast by the Southeast Festivals and Events Association. It has also been selected multiple times over the years as a Top 20 Event in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society.

Festival hours are Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission is free with $5 one day parking or $8 for weekend parking. Tour buses are an $8 daily fee. No pets please! For festival information or directions to the Georgia International Horse Park, located just off I-20, visit www.conyerscherryblossomfest.com or call 770-860-4190 or 1-800-CONYERS.

May

18 – BUCHANAN – Spring Fair on the Square, Courthouse square. 770-3284614.

18 – CLARKSVILLE – Mountain Laurel Festival, Downtown. 706-754-4216.

18 – KNOXVILLE/ROBERTA – Georgia Jugfest. 478-836-3825.

18 – VILLA RICA – Summer Concert featuring Atlanta Rhythm Section, 106 Temple St. 678-840-1160.

18-19 – CALHOUN – Battle of Resaca Reenactment. 800-887-3811.

4-5 – CLEVELAND – Fiber, Farm & Art Festival, N. Ga. Zoo & Farm, 10am-5pm.

706-348-7279.

4-5 – EAST ELLIJAY – Georgia Apple Blossom Festival. 706-635-7400.

4-5 – GAY – Cotton Pickin’ Fair. 706-5386814. Shady Days in Gay. 706-977-8548.

4-5 – OLD CLINTON – War Days Reenactment & Encampment. 478-986-6383.

9-11 – OCHLOCKNEE – Great Southern Music Festival, Pickers Paradise Park, Th. 5-11pm; Fri. & Sat. 10am-11pm. 229221-5467.

10 – ROSWELL – Michael O’Neal Singers/Broadway Musical, Roswell UMC, 8pm. 770-594-7974.

10-11 – ROME – Roman Roast on the River, Ridge Ferry Park. 800-444-1834.

11 – ABBEVILLE – Ocmulgee Wild Hog Festival, Lions Park. 229-467-2144.

11 – PAVO – Annual Peacock Day, 2061 W McDonald St. 229-785-2111.

11 – WASHINGTON – Cruise in on the Square. Memorylandcruiserga.com.

11-19 – LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN – 2019 CONYERS CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL Southern Blooms Festival, 1400 Patten Rd. 17 – TYBEE ISLAND – Beach Bum Pawww.conyerscherryblossomfest.com Georgia International Horse Park rade. 912-786-5444.

Georgia International Horse Park FreeAdmission Admission with 17-18 – HIWASSEE – Ga. Mountain Egg​ Free with $5 $5 Parking ParkingFee Fee 770-860-4190 fest, 1311 Music Hall Rd. 706-896-4191.

770-860-4190 18 – BLAIRSVILLE – Armed Forces www.conyerscherryblossomfest.com Day, Downtown, 11am. 706-745-5493.

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 31

Georgia Blueberry Festival The 45th Annual Georgia Blueberry Festival will be held May 31 & June 1 in Alma at Goldwasser Park with a Re-enactment at the Recreational Center. The fun will begin Friday at noon with food, arts and crafts, music, a blueberry pie contest, a Senior Beauty Contest, a variety show, and live bands. The festival will feature over 130 vendors, offering something for everyone. The children can enjoy the inflatables while their parents shop for that unique gift for someone special.

Saturday will feature a Blueberry Pancake Breakfast starting at 6am, a 5-K Run/Walk at 8am, and a parade at 9:30am. Events during the day will include live entertainment and a special Tot Spot for kids. There will be lots of fresh blueberries and blueberry plants for sale at the 4-H Booth. For information, call 912-310-7399 or visit www.georgiablueberryfestival.org.

Toast of Toccoa The third annual Toast of Toccoa, Regional Art, Craft Beer and Wine Festival, held Saturday, May 4th from noon until 5pm features dozens of artisans from the Currahee Artists Guild and other regional arts organizations displaying their artwork throughout the downtown area. Visitors can meet with the individual artists and purchase selected pieces of art.

The event also features craft beer from several regional brewers, as well as wine tastings from well-known North Georgia vineyards, including Toccoa’s-own Currahee Vineyards.

Selected local area restaurants will have booths featuring specialty food items for sale.

Live music will be featured throughout the day. Toast of Toccoa takes place along Doyle and Sage Streets in Historic Downtown Toccoa. Admission is free. Tokens will be sold for craft beer and regional vineyard wine tastings. For more information visit www.mainstreettoccoa.com.

Opens at Six Flags Over Georgia. 770May 948-9290.

18-19 – DAHLONEGA – Arts & Wine 25 – HELEN – Bavarianfest, 1074 EdelFestival, 13 S. Park St. 706-867-8059. weiss St. 706-878-1908.

18, 25 – ST. MARYS – Circus Train.

25 – MIDWAY – Memorial Day Comwww.St.MarysRailroad.com. memoration, Fort Morris. 912-884-5999.

24-26 – DECATUR – Arts Fest, 101 E. 25 – PINE MOUNTAIN – Summer Court Square. 404-371-9583.

Splash, FDR St. Pk. Pool. 706-663-4858.

24 – AUSTELL – Hurricane Harbor

45th 3

May 31

Saturday, May 4, 2019

&

June 1

Crafts • Collectibles • Food Vendors • Pie Eating Contest Live Bands • Re-Enactments • Blueberry Pancakes Blueberry Plants • Children’s Entertainment Fun Run • Sr. Beauty Contest • Variety Show Saturday Parade 9:30am • Blueberries Galore

912-310-7399

www.georgiablueberryfestival.org

32 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

Biblical History Center in LaGrange Biblical History Center was founded in LaGrange in 2006 with the mission of helping people experience the ancient biblical world, its history and culture. The first seven years consisted of ceaseless construction, adding more learning opportunities through authentic reconstructions of archaeological excavations. The highlight of this continual construction was in 2013 when the Roman theater, with a specially designed gallery for ancient artifacts, was completed. Due to connections in the fields of archaeology, geography and education, the Israel Antiquities Authority agreed to a long term collection of artifacts to be displayed in the new gallery, making Biblical History Center one of only eight museums worldwide to be so honored.

Biblical History Center is truly a museum like no other, and the most authentic ancient world experience outside of the Middle East. Visitors can enjoy guided Garden Tours, a Biblical Meal, a tour through the daily life artifacts gallery, bread making under the goat haired tents, a simulated archeology dig, and special events throughout the year. Be sure to follow on Facebook and Instagram to learn when events are!

Schedule your visit today at BiblicalHistoryCenter.com!

The Hiwassee 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, TN. For those riders choosing a trip to Copperhill, the route continues beyond Farner through Turtletown and Ducktown to the border towns of Copperhill, TN and McCaysville, GA. The trains feature comfortable coach seating with large viewing windows for standard s ervice. 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.

May

25 – RICHMOND HILL – Memorial Day at Fort McAllister. 912-727-2339.

25 – SENOIA – Camp Marimac Charity Bash. www.facebook.com/CampMarimac CharityBash/ 25-26 – BLAIRSVILLE – Memorial Day Parade. Downtown. 10am. 706-745-6341.

25-26 – BLAIRSVILLE – Spring Arts & Crafts Festival, 3 Town Sq. 706-745-5493.

25-26 – BLUE RIDGE – Arts in the Park Festival City Park. 706-632-2144.

25-27 – ALPHARETTA – Arts Streetfest, Milton Ave & Main St. 678-27-0102.

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

33

Ocmulgee lueberry Festival Wild Hog Festival in Abbeville

Thebe28th annual WildatHog Festival will be held Saturday, Festival will held June 1Ocmulgee & 2 in Alma GoldMay 11, in Abbeville Lions Park Hwy.at280. Among the events will Recreational Center.

The funonwill begin Friday be anpie exciting Hog Baying contest and a children’s pig chase. Browse a blueberry through iety show, andover 100 arts and crafts booths and over 25 food booths. Enjoy all kinds of good music and other entertainment including line dancing, clogr 130 vendors, ging,can bands, and singing. There will be kiddie rides, ponies, an antique children show, and more. s shop tractor for that To participate in the Poker Run, contact David Cummings at 478-262-5536. Gates will open 9am. Admission will be $2 for all ages. Parking will be free. ancakeatBreakAbbeville, the Wild Hog Capital of Georgia, is located 30 miles east of Cordele at at 8am, and a intersection of US 280 and 129. From I-75 take exit 101. For more information, ay will the include visit There www.hogfestival.com. ot for kids. will be lots of fresh blueberries Booth. For information, call 912-310-7399 or visit

Putnam County Dairy Festival, Eatonton The 60th Annual Putnam County Dairy Festival will be held in Eatonton on Sat., June 1.

Everyone’s forata8amDay ActivitiesIrish will begin with the 41st annual 10K Torture Trail Road Race & One Mile Fun

(706-485-9941).

The parade will begin at 10am and will ’s Fastest Growing St. Patrick’s DayRun. Parade will feature Queen of the Dairy Festival and her court, Junior t 4:30pm in Olde Town Conyers. This is a the twoMiss Putnam walking parade and everybody is encouraged to County and her court, floats, antique tractors, antiqueprior cars, Shriners, dignitaries, clowns, and horses. A program at the corner of Main and Center streets to m to join in this annual tradition. at 11am will recognize the Putnam County Dairy Farm Family of theSt. year. here is an annual crowning of children’s Pat-The festival will pay tribute to the county’s dairy and will be held on the streets surrounding the courtDay Parade king and queen, a industry Leprechaun house.contest An Arts and Crafts Fair will be open from 9am-4pm alike Contest for adults and a pet costume and will feature arts,Prizes crafts,will food, children’s activities. BBQ will be available from 11amconclusion of the parade. beand awarded!

Free ice andAnnual milk along with an educational dairy exhibit will be provided on llowing1:30pm. the parade is cream the 9th World’s the Square.Run Entertainment artists will be held there from 12:30-4pm. In honor est Endurance sponsoredfeaturing by the local Rotary of the 60th anniversary of the festival the theme will be retro incorporating music and events .1 of the 50’s. me 28th Annual For booth space, contact Cindy Willis at 706eet, 473-0987 or cgwillis0810@yahoo.com. For arfestival information or to down​load applications . to participate, phone 706- 473-0763 or visit eat www.putnamcountydairyfestival.com. nd You May 60th Annual ers.

esies, nd tly hey his es,

May 11th

SATURDAY, 9AM-6PM Hog-Dog Baying Contest • Children’s Pig Chase Over 100 Arts & Crafts booths • 25 Food Vendors Kiddie Rides • Ponies • Tractors • Much More

ve.

Relax in the shade on the grass and enjoy all kinds of good music and other entertainment including line dancing, clogging, bands, and singing.

he 2. es er.

Admission $2 • LIONS PARK • I-75 Exit 101 The Wild Hog Capital of Georgia

Putnam County Dairy Festival Sat.

June 1

2019

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

EATONTON, GA

ABBEVILLE

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

www.hogfestival.com

www.putnamcountydairyfestival.com

30 miles East of Cordele on Hwy. 280

arch, April, May 2018 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 35 34 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

706-473-0763

Great Adventure onGreensboro the Peter Cottontail Express Southland Jubilee in therichRock ‘n Roll Celebrate GreeneAnd County’s and varied cultural Express

On the St. Marys Express, the impossible on a surprisingly regular basis. history at the 21st Annual Southland Jubileeoccurs on Saturday, Offering great fun for all ages, the 2017 St. Marys Express season will be highlighted in the April 20, from 9am-4pm in historic downtown Greensboro. spring by the Peter Cottontail Express on April 8 and 15 Admission will be free. andSouthland the new and exciting Rock ‘n’ Roll Express on May Jubilee is the “Everything Festival,” offering 20 and 27. There will be Easter egg hunts after each something for every age and is fun for the whole family. As Peter Cottontail Express ride. On the Rock ‘n’ Roll the event you continues to grow eachwith year,legends it has developed Express come face to face like Elvis, the reputation as a quality heritage arts and family festival, drawing visitors from all across the state. At this year’s festival, you can Johnny Cash, Marvin Gaye, and others. The St. Marys expect live entertainment throughout theofday, Expresstoisfind all about history, adventure, and most all arts and crafts vendors, a children’s activity exhibits, a classic car show, and your favorite festival foods. fun-fun area, for allagricultural ages. Riding the rails into scenic woodlands and over picturesque marshlands is justoff a small Greensboro is located east of Atlanta of I-20 at the Lake Oconee exit #130. slice of what the captivating train ride Lodging is available at local hotels, bedentails. and breakfasts, and campgrounds. For information, visit The 2017 season is destined be another record breaking year. Go ride the rails. Visit www.southlandjubilee.com or call to 706-453-7674. www.stmarysrailroad.com for the entire schedule or call 912-200-5235.

Blessing of the FleetRiver Festival in Darien The Hiwassee Railroad The 51st annual Blessing of the Fleet Festival in historic Darien April 5-7 will kick off

the historic Hiwassee River Railroad scenic rail excursion through the unspoiled Fri.Ride at 5pm with arts, crafts, dancing, and live music by the Grains of Sand Band. Sat. events Cherokee National Forest, along the beautiful Hiwassee River, and through the secluded will include a 5KRiver run/walk at All 8am, a street with U.S. Hiwassee Gorge. trips featureparade the engineering militarymarvel, and Scottish color guardsLoop. at 10am, live the Great Hiwassee At thecontinuous top you’ll pass entertainment, Kids’ 62 Zone, booths, a classic car over a bridge feet vendor above the tracksand on which you’ve show. Live music Sat. evening at 7pm bya the Tams,formation. followed just traveled as the rails negotiate spiraling All trips begin by a fireworks display at with dark.a short bus trip from the restored L&N Museum Etowah, TN. For those riders Art in theDepot Park, &a juried fineinart show, will be held Sat. and choosing aunder trip stately to Copperhill, theinroute continues Sun. (10am-5pm) Live Oaks Vernon Square, Turtletown and Ducktown to the just a short stroll from the waterfront.beyond It will Farmer feature through entertainment, paintings, photography, border towns of Copperhill, TN and McCaysville, GA. sculpture, pottery, stained glass, jewelry, and textiles.

The trains feature comfortable coach seating with Sunday events will feature vendor booths,Dome Art inseating the Park, andpassengers religious rock and soul music large viewing windows for standard service. allows a panoramic view from 11am.above Thenthe Sunday’s magnificent parade of shrimp trawlers, each view approaching from high car. Observation lounge seating provides a unique from thethe carDarien at the Bridge a blessing for theWhile coming year rear of to theobtain train in one direction. travelof begin at 2pm.the Awards willbe be ingfishing, in the will other direction, car will March directly behind the locomotive. announced at 4pm.

11-12 – PINE MOUNTAIN – American Special rates are and available forbe groups Admission on Fri. Sat. will $5 forof 13 Frontier Days, FDR State Park. 706-663-4858.

25 or charter trips can be arranged for and upmore; and free for 12 and under with paying 11-18 – CONYERS – Tykes, Tots, Teens CongroupsNo of admission 80 or more.charge For information, adult. on Sunday.phone www. signment Sale, Ga. Int’l Horse Park. 770-483-4411.

423-894-8028, x0 or visit www.tvrail.com. blessingofthefleet.com or 912-437-6684.

11-18 – SAVANNAH – St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on River St. 877-savannah.

12 – SAVANNAH – Celtic Cross Ceremony, Emmet Park, 1pm. 912-233-4804.

12 – TYBEE ISLAND – Irish Heritage FridayCelebration Parade, 3pm. 912-786-5444.

Sunday 16 – FITZGERALD – Street Party w/Megan Fowler, White Swan Parking Lot. 6pm. 229-426-5035.

17 – SAVANNAH – St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 10:15am. 877-savannah.

17-18 – FITZGERALD – Wild Chicken Festival. 800-386-4642.

17-18 – WAYCROSS – Swamptown Getdown Music & Arts Festival, Fairgnds. 912-288-3712.

18 – BLUE RIDGE – Bowls of Hope (soup, pottery), Willow Creek Falls, 1-4pm. 706-946-1001.

18 – BLUE RIDGE – St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Marine Parade • Classic Car Show Downtown. 706-455-7686. Concert of Choral Art In The Park • Street Parade Music, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. 706-632-8245.

Arts & Crafts • Music • Food 18 – DUBLIN – Super Saturday for St. Patrick’s Festival. 478-272-5546.

View Event Schedule & Times at: 18 – DUBLIN – St. Patrick’s Parade, 10amwww.blessingofthefleet.com 11:30am. 478-272-4002.

20 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / 2019 April //May 2017TO GEORGIA 35 March/April/May GUIDE

51st

Annual

HISTORIC DARIEN April

5-7

Fitzgerald Wild Chicken Festival Discover small-town charm at its best in Fitzgerald, Georgia – a unique and charming town with quirky wild chickens in the streets. The exotic and beautiful Burmese chickens with brilliant orange and yellow ruffs and gleaming black tail feathers are a familiar part of downtown Fitzgerald. The Burmese chickens were released in Ben Hill County in the 1960’s by the Ga. Dept. of Natural Resources as an additional game bird but somehow made their way to downtown Fitzgerald. There they have a love-hate relationship with the locals. Soon, Fitzgerald will be known as “The Small Town with the Big Chicken!”

Coming in 2019: A Big Chicken! Seriously, world-renowned living-sculpture artist Topiary Joe is in the process of building the world’s largest chicken topiary in Fitzgerald, as homage to the town’s fowl residents. Celebrate these feathered friends at Fitzgerald’s annual Wild Chicken Festival March 14,15 & 16. On Thurs., the weekend event will be kicked off with the Thunderstruck concert at the historic Grand Theatre at 7:30pm. Fri., the Bushmen street dance will be held at the White Swan Parking Lot from 7-10pm. On Sat., there will be an artisans market, craft vendors, food, children’s activities, entertainment, the Michael Buras Memorial 5K, an art exhibit, and the Creative Flame Carnival will be back again this year.

Step back in time with a visit to the Blue and Gray Museum, where you will learn the story of how Yankee and Confederate veterans came together to build a town in harmony – one of Georgia’s few planned cities. Immerse yourself in the art world at the beautifully renovated Carnegie Center, where you can view exhibits or create your own works of art.

Enjoy a first-run movie, concert, or live theatrical performance at the breathtaking Art Deco-style Grand Theatre.

With so much to see and do, make a weekend of it with a stay at one of Fitzgerald’s unique accommodations. Choose from downtown lofts to historic homes, AirBNBs to traditional B&Bs, and inns to hotels. Enjoy a wide selection of dining choices at our local restaurants, a sumptuous country buffet, a New Yorkstyle pizza and even international flavors at a Caribbean restaurant or the Hungarian restaurant.

Fitzgerald is Small Town U.S.A. at its best! So, pack your bags and come for a visit.

1-800-386-4642, www.fitzgeraldga.org.

SATURDAY

APRIL 6

10 AM - 3 PM

119 East Washington Street SUMMERVILLE, GA

FAMILY FUN FOR ALL AGES Friday, March 15 & Saturday, March 16 Thursday-Saturday, March 14, 15 & 16 Historic Downtown Fitzgerald, GA

The Fun Starts Night . .in.concert at Grand Theatre 7:30PM Thursday Night Friday . . . Thunderstruck FREE Street - White7-10PM Swan Parking Friday NightDance FREE7-10PM Street Dance - White Lot Swan Parking Lot On Saturday . . . there will be an artisans market, craft vendors, food, children’s activities, entertainment, the Michael Buras Memorial 5K, an art exhibit, the Creative Flame Carnival and more . . . Take a look at the community calendar for additional events and information.

Live Entertainment Arrival of TVRM Passenger Train Kids Miniature Train Rides & Kids Zone Tons of Art, Crafts & Retail Vendors Steam Engine Turning On Summerville Turntable BBQ • Lots of Food • Free Admission

www.fitzgeraldga.org

36 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019

706-859-0900, ext. 1337

www.summervillega.org

Summerville Spring Market At The Depot Come celebrate the arrival of spring at the Annual Spring Market At The Depot in downtown Summerville, GA on Saturday, April 6. Tons of vendors will be on site with a wide variety of merchandise and goods.

Enjoy live entertainment, and the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Passenger Train. The Summerville Turntable is always a big hit for train fans, as it turns the majestic steam engine, following the train arrival. A miniature train will be boarding at the depot, offering rides to young and young at heart throughout the day. Specialty, retail, craft, and food vendors from Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama will be on hand. Market hours are 10am3pm. Admission and parking is free.

For more information contact Summerville Main Street at 706-859-0900 ext. 1337 or visit www.summervillega.org.

Celebrate Spring at Lane Orchards

Come celebrate Georgia’s sweetest season and the arrival of the first peach blossoms at Lane Southern Orchards in Fort Valley, GA. Their 7th annual Peach Blossom Festival is on Saturday, March 16th from 10am-5pm. Kids can play all day in the kids play zone with six huge attractions (3 and under are FREE). A $12 armband gets unlimited access all day.

Stroll through rows of local arts & crafts vendors selling their wares. Fill up on BBQ, Brunswickstew, Philly cheese steak, sausage dogs, shrimp and grits, cotton candy and more. Live entertainment all day will feature Southern Cut, a Country/ Rock/Blues Band from Macon performing from 11am-1pm, Kaleigh Courson and Dixon Road hit the stage at 3:00!

The you-pick strawberry patch opens on April 1st from 10am-5pm. Teachers call and book your fun and educational tours now. Book your child’s next Birthday Party on the Farm and the birthday child picks for free and gets a t-shirt. Take I-75 to exit 142 in Fort Valley, GA. For more information call 800-277-3224 or visit www.LaneSouthernOrchards.com.

May

27 – DARIEN – Colonial Memorial Celebrations, Fort King George. 912-4374770.

31-Jun. 1 – ALMA – Georgia Blueberry Festival, Goldwasser Park. 912-310-7399.

27 – MADISON – Memorial Day Ceremony, Town Park. 706-474-1199.

June

1 – EATONTON – Putnam County Dairy Festival, Courthouse Sq. 706-473-0763.

8 – WOODBURY – Peaches in the Pines Arts & Music Festival & Meriwether Miles (Bike 15M, 35M, 63M), Lake Meriwether. 770-927-2847.

8-9 – BLAIRSVILLE – Scottish Festival, Highland Games & Music Festival.

Meeks Park. www.BlairsvilleScottish Festival.org.

21-22 – COLUMBUS – Frogtown Crawfish Festival, Woodruff Park, Fri. 5-11pm; Sat. 8:30am-11pm. 706-905-2614.

March/April/May 2019 / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

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GEORGIA It’s all about

YOU 38 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / March/April/May 2019