Guide to Georgia Summer 2012 by cyberguy1976

GGEORGIA uide To

Events Attractions Fairs & Festivals

Summer 2012

Kingsland Catfish Festival

GGEORGIA uide To

Volume 52 Summer

Number 2 June/July/August 2012

CONTENTS Labor Day Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Garden & Nature Events . . . . . . . .5 Metro Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-9 Atlanta Attractions . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Sporting Events . . . . . . . . . . . .10-12 Entertainment Venues . . . . . .13-15 Summer Events in Georgia . . .16-25 July 4th Events . . . . . . . . . . . .26-28 Theatre & Music . . . . . . . . . . .29-30

ON THE COVER ingsland, located in the scenic coastal section of Georgia, is the home of the famous Catfish Festival which is held on Labor Day weekend every year. The festival, on September 1-3, will feature arts and crafts, antiques, collectibles, an antique classic car, truck, and tractor exhibition, live musical entertainment, and a variety of food including succulent Southern fried catfish, grits, coleslaw, hushpuppies, and catfish nuggets. See page 4 for more details. Information on many of the other exciting festivals in Georgia can be found throughout this issue.

GUIDE

GEORGIA

801 Nebula Rd., Manchester, GA 31816 Phone 706-846-2620 E-mail guidetogeorgia@windstream.net Patty Proctor . . . . . . . . .Publisher/Editor Hayley Yawn . . . . . .Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Assistant Debi Richardson . . . . . . .Graphics Editor 803-259-1990, debi@guidetogeorgia.com The GUIDE TO GEORGIA, founded in 1960, is the premiere publication for information on activities and entertainment in Georgia. Four issues are published each year, and the magazines are distributed in all 11 Georgia Welcome Centers, in local visitor bureaus, in hotels, and numerous other outlets as well as to subscribers. Subscription is $10 per year. Contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without permission.

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

HHLABOR DAY EVENTSHH Labor Day Catfish Festival in Kingsland The 30th Annual Labor Day Catfish Festival will be held in downtown Kingsland September 1-3. The festival will kick off Saturday at 7 am with a 5K run sponsored by the Camden Miracle League (www.camdenmiracleleague.com). More than 75 booths featuring handmade original arts & crafts, antiques, and collectibles will be open Saturday and Sunday from 12-6pm and Monday from 9am-6pm. There will also be an antique classic car, truck, and tractor exhibition by the Southeast Georgia Car and Truck Club. Free outdoor performances on Saturday through Monday will feature many bands and entertainers, and the full schedule can be found on the festival website. Visitors are encouraged to take lawn chairs and beach blankets. Reserved seating for the elderly and disabled will be available under a canopy adjacent to the stage. The weekend menu will include succulent Southern fried catfish, grits, coleslaw, hushpuppies, and iced tea. Catfish nuggets and fries will also be offered a la carte. Serving time will begin at 12pm each day. A variety of other festival foods will be available; and the Kingsland Lions Club will serve a pancake breakfast on Labor Day. The Labor Day parade at 10am will feature Kingsley the Lion, Cecil the Catfish, and the Camden County High School Marching Band. The amusement area, open from Saturday noon through Monday evening, will feature pony rides, kiddie train, inflatables, bungee jump, and a mining attraction. For information, call 912-729-4382 or visit www.kingslandcatfishfestival.com.

August 26-Sept. 2 – SAVANNAH – Savannah Craft Brew Festival, Trade Center. 877-savannah. 31-Sept. 2 – DECATUR – AJC Decatur Book Festival, Downtown. 404-471-5769. 31-Sept. 2 – PINE MOUNTAIN – Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival, Callaway Gardens. 800callaway. 31-Sept. 2 – TYBEE ISLAND – Tybee Arts Association Show & Sale. 912-786-5920. 31-Sept. 3 – ATLANTA – DragonCon, Downtown. 770-909-0115.

September 1 – ATLANTA – Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game (Auburn/Clemson, UT/N.C. State), Georgia Dome. 404-223-9200. 1 – JONESBORO – South Metro Caribbean Festival, Clayton Int’l. Park. 678-464-0680. 1 – MARIETTA – Art in the Park, Glover Park. 770-429-1115. 1 – RICHMOND HILL – Labor Day at Fort McAllister. 912-727-2339. 1 – ROSWELL – Riverside Park Concert, 7-9pm. 770-640-3253. 1 – THOMASVILLE – Lighthouse Gospel Concert, Auditorium. 229-227-4050.

1-2 – ATLANTA – Music Makers Trade Show & Conference, Georgia World Congress Center. 404-223-4000. 1-2 – NEWNAN – Powers Festival. 770-2542627. 1-3 – KINGSLAND – Labor Day Weekend Catfish Festival, Downtown. 912-729-4382. 1-3 – SAVANNAH – Tools & Skills That Built a Colony, Wormsloe, 912-353-3923. 1-3 – STONE MOUNTAIN PARK – Lasershow Spectacular, 8:30pm. 770-498-5690. 1-3 – WARM SPRINGS – Swim the Historic Pools, FDR’s Little White House. 706-655-5870. 2 – ATLANTA – Fall Back into Style Fashion Show, Ga. World Congress Ctr. 404-223-4000. 2-5 – CALHOUN – Labor Day Weekend Celebration, KOA. 706-629-7511. 3 – MIDWAY – Labor Day Commemoration, Fort Morris. 912-884-5999. 3 – WARM SPRINGS – Labor Day Celebration, Village. 800-337-1927. 3-4 – SAVANNAH – River Street Labor Day Celebration. 912-234-0295. 3-5 – SAVANNAH – Ft. Pulaski Nat’l. Monument End of Season Celebration. 912-786-5787. 4 – TYBEE ISLAND – Labor Day Beach Bash. 912-786-5444.7

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

Garden and Nature Events Throughout Summer June 1-July 6 – Okefenokee Swamp Programs, Stephen C. Foster St. Pk., Fridays. 912-637-5274. June 1-Aug. 31 – Independent Visions: Sculpture in the Atlanta Botanical Garden. June 4-Sept. 3 – Interpretive Kayak Tour, Crooked River State Park, St. Marys, Mondays. 912-882-5256. June 5, 12,19, July 3,10,17, Aug. 7,14,21 – The Well-Seasoned Chef Series, Atlanta Botanical Garden, 6:30pm. June 7-Aug. 23 – Cocktails in the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Thursdays, 6-10pm. June 9, July 14, Aug. 11 – Lost Person Prevention, Panola Mountain State Park, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. June 23, July 28, Aug. 18 – Georgia State Astronomy Observatory Open House, Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge. 706-557-3001.

MASSEE LANE GARDENS. The Hot Cocoa Rose is in the Scheibert Rose Garden which was installed in 1985 by Dr. C. David Scheibert and dedicated to his wife Jean and mother Luella. More than 150 roses fill the area. Massee Lane, a 100+ acre botanical garden, is located in Fort Valley. 877-422-6355.

June 2 – Alligator Day, Florence Marina State Park, Omaha. 229-838-4706. 2 – Frog Slog, Panola Mountain State Park, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. 2 – Pond & Garden Tour, Cartersville. 770386-6767. 5,16 – Hydrangeas, Atlanta Botanical Garden. 9 – Roswell Lavender Festival, Barrington Hall, Roswell. 770-640-3855. 9 – Beekeeping, State Botanical Garden. 9 – Geology Hike, Sweetwater Creek State Park, Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871. 9 – Snakes Alive, Tugaloo State Park, Lavonia. 706-356-4362. 16 – Coca-Cola Space Science Center Observation Night, FDR State Park, Pine Mt. 706-663-4858. 19 – Gardens Around the World Lecture, State Botanical Garden. 23 – Summer Sky Observation, Tugaloo State Park, Lavonia. 706-356-4362. 26 – Weed ID & Control, Atlanta Botanical Garden, 10am. 28 – Reptile Day, Fernbank Museum, Atlanta. 404-929-6300.

July 6 – Songwriters Tour Concert, Chattahoochee Nature Center, 8pm. 14 – Flying Colors Butterfly Festival, Chattahoochee Nature Center. (See July 4th section for more events.)

August 3 – Songwriters Tour Concert, Chattahoochee Nature Center, 8pm. 6 – Gardening in Season, Atlanta Botanical Garden, 6pm.

7 – Shade Gardening, Atlanta Botanical Garden, 6:30pm. 11 – Astronomy Night, Georgia Veterans State Park, Cordele. 229-276-2371. 11 – Field Trip to Ossabaw Island, Coffee Bluff Marina, Savannah. 912-925-7474. 11 – Botanical Preparations, Smithgall Woods, Helen. 706-878-3087. 16,18 – Planning & Starting Your Autumn Veggie Garden, Atlanta Botanical Garden. 18 – Butterfly Festival, Dunwoody Nature Center. 770-394-3322. 18 – Freshwater Wetland Workshop, Smithgall Woods, Helen. 706-878-3087.

Garden & Nature Centers in Georgia • Ashantilly Center, Darien . . . . . . . . . . . .912-437-4473 • Atlanta Botanical Garden . . . . . . . . . . .404-876-5859 • Bamboo/Coastal Gdns., Savannah . . .912-921-5460 • Barrington Hall, Roswell . . . . . . . . . . . .770-640-3855 • Birdsong Nature Ctr., Thomasville . . . .800-953-bird • Callaway Gardens, Pine Mt. . . . . . . . . .800-Callaway • Chattahoochee Nat. Ctr., Roswell . . . . .770-992-2055 • Columbus Botanical Garden . . . . . . . .706-327-8400 • Elachee Nature Center, Gainesville . . .770-535-1976 • Flint RiverQuarium, Albany . . . . . . . . . .229-639-2650 • Ga. Mt. Research Ctr., Blairsville . . . . .706-745-2655 • GSU Botanical Gdn., Statesboro . . . . .912-871-1149 • Hills & Dales Estate, LaGrange . . . . . .706-882-3242 • Massee Lane, Fort Valley . . . . . . . . . . . .478-967-2358 • Oakland Island, Savannah . . . . . . . . . . .912-898-3980 • Oxbow Meadows, Columbus . . . . . . . .706-687-4090 • Phinizy Swamp, Augusta . . . . . . . . . . . .706-828-2109 • Smithgall Woods, Helen . . . . . . . . . . . . .706-878-3087 • State Botanical Garden, Athens . . . . . .706-542-1244 • Tybee Island Marine Center . . . . . . . . .912-786-5917

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

METRO ATLANTA Sandy Springs – A Diverse Place to Visit Sandy Springs, only 15 miles north of Atlanta, offers not only metropolitan amenities but also many outdoor retreats and one-of-a-kind venues. Stop by the Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism booth at the 10th Annual Chattahoochee River Race & Festival on June 9 at Riverside Park in Roswell, the site of a family-friendly festival from 10am-2pm including music, vendors, and an awards presentation. The competitive race will be 10 miles while recreational paddlers will take the 8-mile course. 404-352-9828, x12. The Hospitality Highway Century Ride on July 8 will include 100M, 60M, 23M, and 9M rides and will be open to anyone 12 years of age or older. The ride will start at 1425 Market Blvd., Roswell at 6am and will wind through Sandy Springs, Milton, Roswell, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, and other scenic areas of North Fulton County. The Heritage Sandy Springs Beer Fest on August 11 from 4-8pm will feature foreign, U.S., and local beers as well as music and food vendors. 404-851-9111, x203. The Young Chefs Academy will present summer classes for preschool through high school children. Wind Down Wednesday Concerts at Heritage Green at 6pm will feature My Favorite Baldwin on June 20, Red Zeppelin on July 18, and Blue Horizon on Aug. 15. Events at theaters and venues can be found in special sections in this issue. For more information, visit www.visitsandysprings.org or call toll-free 866-511-7742. The Sandy Springs Welcome Center is in the Parkside Shopping Center at 5920 Roswell Road. 1-3 – Dixie Hwy. 90 Mile Yard Sale, Marietta to Ringgold. 770-387-1357. 2 – Outdoor Movie / The Muppets, SwiftJune 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – Brown Bag Cantrell Park, Kennesaw, dark. 770-424-8274. Concerts, Gwinnett Courthouse, Lawrenceville, 2 – Georgia Grown Festival, Peachtree Point, 11am. 770-822-5450. Lake Lanier. 770-932-7200. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – First Friday Art 2-3 – Virginia Highland Summerfest. 404Walk, Marietta Square, 5-9pm. 800-451-3480. 874-2084. June 1-Aug. 1, Aug. 11, 18, 25 – Lasershow 3 – Concert by the Springs with Atlanta Spectacular, Stone Mtn. Pk., 9:30pm. 770-498-5690. Pleasure Band, Heritage Green, Sandy Springs, June 1, Aug. 10 – Coffee House Rhythms, 7-8:30pm. 404-851-9111. Courthouse, Lawrenceville, 7-9pm. 770-822-5450. 6, 13, 20, 27 – Movin Groovin’ Mornings June 1-Aug. 31 – Martinis & IMAX, Fernbank for Children, Heritage Green, Sandy Springs, Museum, Fridays, 5:30-10pm. 404-929-6300. 10am. 404-851-9111. June 2, July 7, Aug. 4 – Roswell Riverside 8-10 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Park Concerts, 7-9pm. 770-640-3253. Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. June 5-Aug. 30 – Music at Noon, Centennial 8-10 – BLADE Show & Int’l. Cutlery Fair, Olympic Pk., Tues. & Thurs., 12-1pm. 404-223-4412. Cobb Galleria Centre. 770-989-5095. June 6-Aug. 29 – Wednesday WindDown, 9 – Mustangs Concert, Smyrna Village Green, Centennial Olympic Pk., 5:30-8pm. 404-223-4412. 7-10pm. 770-434-6600. June 7, Aug. 2 – First Thursday Art Walk, 9 – Chattahoochee River Race & Festival, Downtown Atlanta, 5-8pm. 404-658-1877. Sandy Springs/Roswell Area. 404-352-9828. June 21, July 19, Aug. 16 – Alive After 9-10 – Locomotive Celebration, SouthFive, Roswell Historic District. 770-640-3253. eastern Railway Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013. June 23-24, July 28-29, Aug. 25-26 – 10 – Alpharetta City Band Concert, North Alpharetta Art in Milton Park. 678-297-2811. Park, 3pm. 678-297-6140. June 23, July 28, Aug. 25 – 4th Saturday 10 – 144th Session of June Singing, Big Family Fun Day, Centennial Olympic Park, noonCreek Primitive Baptist Church, Alpharetta. 7704pm. 404-223-4412. 490-4232. June 29, July 27, Aug. 24, 25, 28 – Glover Park Concerts, Marietta Sq., 8pm. 770-794-5601. 10 – Bridal Show, Gwinnett Courthouse, Lawrenceville, 1-4pm. 770-822-5450. 13 – “Tales of the 8th Air Force” with Col. 1-3 – Georgia Renaissance Festival, Hap Chandler, Heritage Sandy Springs Museum, Fairburn. 770-964-8575. 7pm. 404-851-9111. 6 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

All Summer Events

June

METRO ATLANTA

Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth “Georgia’s Official Transportation History Museum” has over 90 pieces of retired railway rolling stock: trains from the 1920’s and 1950’s including vintage steam and diesel locomotives, passenger and private cars, WWII troop kitchen, railway post office car, wooden freight cars, baggage cars, cabooses, and maintenance of way equipment. The museum is home to MARTA’s historic bus fleet and busses from many of the predecessor systems to MARTA. The annual Locomotive Celebration on June 9-10 will include temporary caboose tattoos, locomotive hunt, refreshments, kids’ craft corner, and the Jr. Model RR Club layout demonstration. “Trains, Trucks, and Tractors” on August 4-5 will offer refreshments, temporary tattoos, craft corner for children, hayrides, exhibits of tractors and trucks with a mixture of current and antique equipment, and the Jr. Model RR Club layout demonstration. The second Thursday of each month features programs geared towards pre-school children. The railway museum, located at 3595 Buford Highway in Duluth, is open Wednesdays through Saturdays in June, July, and August from 10 am-5 pm. With ad on page 8 one free train ride with each paid admission. For more information, visit www.SoutheasternRailwayMuseum.org or phone 770-476-2013.

June 14-16 – Atlanta Fest (Christian Music Festival), Stone Mountain Park. 800-783-8839. 15 – Atlanta Jazz, High Museum of Art, 5-10pm. 404-733-high. 15 – Rock ‘n Rollin to 80’s Music (roller skates), Bethesda Center, Lawrenceville, 6:308:30pm. 770-417-2200. 15 – Decatur Beach Party, Downtown, 5-11pm. 404-371-8386. 15 – Movie Night Finale, Hapeville Football Stadium. 404-669-8269. 16 – Shirley Jones/Brick/ Ohio Players Concert, Riverdale Town Center. 770-909-5300. 16 – Civil War Living History, Barrington Hall. 770-640-3855. 16 – Great American Road Trip Fueled by Chevrolet, Smyrna Village Green. 770-434-6600. 17 – Swingin’ Medallions, Heritage Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. 17 – Real Men Cook, Georgia World Congress Center. 404-223-4000. 20 – Wind Down Wednesday with My Favorite Baldwin, Sandy Springs Society Entertainment Lawn, 6pm. 404-851-9111. 23 – Summer Break Block Party & 5K Road Race, Dntn. Alpharetta, 7pm. 678-297-2811. 30-July 1 – Peachtree Corners Festival, Corners Parkway. 678-492-6114.

July 8 – Hospitality Hwy. Century Ride (100M, 60M, 23M, 9M), Roswell/Sandy Springs. 866-511-7742.

13-15 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. 14 – Soulhound Concert, Smyrna Village Green, 7-10pm. 770-434-6600. 14 – Atlanta Street Food Festival, Piedmont Park. 404-875-7275. 18 – Wind Down Wednesday with Red Zeppelin, Sandy Springs Society Entertainment Lawn, 6pm. 404-851-9111. 20 – Live Concert, Jess Lucas Park, Downtown Hapeville. 404-669-8269. 27 – Glow Band, Duluth, 7pm. 770-476-3434. 27-28 – Atlanta Gospel Fest Music/ Healthcare Festival, Georgia World Congress Center. 404-223-4000. 28 – 5th Annual Chattahoochee River Summer Splash. 866-511-7742. 28 – Youth Sports Expo, Rhodes Jordan Park, Lawrenceville. 770-822-8886. 28-29 – Collectible Glass Show/Sale, Cobb Civic Center, Marietta. 770-853-5327.

REGENCY SUITES HOTEL 975 West Peachtree Street at 10th Street ATLANTA, GEORGIA All-suite hotel; Elegant kitchenettes; Luxurious continental breakfast; complimentary dinner (Mon.-Thurs.) Located two blocks from I-75/85, next to Midtown MARTA station. 404-876-5003 / 800-642-3629 www.regencysuites.com

10 – “Victory Gardens: Past and Present,” Heritage Sandy Springs Museum, 7pm. 404-851-9111. 13 – Super Hero Night, Hoyt Smith Center Hapeville, 6-8pm. 404-669-2136. June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

METRO ATLANTA Scott Antique Market in Atlanta The Scott Antique Market at the Atlanta Expo Centers, the world’s largest monthly indoor antique show, features two buildings stocked full of pretty much every antique imaginable. With 366,000 square feet to explore, and over 3,300 booths, it’s almost impossible to leave without finding exactly what you’re looking for, according to the show’s organizers. All things antique wind up at the Scott Antique Market–antique furniture, vintage hardware, rare art, stunning glassware, heirloom silver, incredible jewelry, and so much more. The Scott Antique Market, described as “America’s favorite treasure hunt,” always takes place the second weekend of every month at the Atlanta Expo Centers which straddle I-285 at Exit 55. Parking is free; admission is only $5; and a complimentary shuttle goes between both buildings. Upcoming shows will be June 8-10, July 13-15, Aug. 10-12, and Sept. 7-9. For a complete list of show dates and more information on Scott Antique Markets, call 740-569-2800 or visit www.scottantiquemarket.com.

August 4 – Smyrna Birthday Celebration/Banks & Shane / Smokey’s Farmland Band / Fireworks. Village Green, 6-10pm. 770-434-6600. 4 – 60th Annual Old Soldiers Day Parade, Alpharetta, 10am; Races 7am; City Band Concert, 8:45am. 678-297-6000. 4 – Back to School Concert, Six Flags Over Georgia. 770-948-9290. 4-5 – Trains, Trucks, Tractors, Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013. 5 – Concert by the Springs with The GLOW Band, Heritage Green, Sandy Springs, 7-8:30pm. 404-851-9111. 5 – Praise in Centennial Olympic Park. 404-223-4412. 6 – Fun Fair, Hoyt Smith Center, Hapeville, 8am-1pm. 404-669-2136. 10-12 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. 11 – Heritage Sandy Springs Beer Festival, 4-8pm. 404-851-9111. 15 – Wind Down Wednesday with Blue Horizon, Sandy Springs Society Entertainment Lawn, 6pm. 404-851-9111. 17 – Family Campout, Tribble Mill Park, Lawrenceville. 770-418-2331.

17 – Live Concert, Jess Lucas Park, Downtown, Hapeville. 404-669-8269. 18 – BBQ, Blues, Bluegrass Festival, Harmony Park, Decatur, 4-10pm. 404-370-4100. 18 – Triology Trolley Crawl, Bulloch House, Barrington Hall, Smith Plantation, Roswell. 770640-3253. 18-19 – Piedmont Park Summer Arts & Crafts Festival. 404-875-7275. 19 – Michael O’Neal Singers, Roswell UMC, 3pm. 770-594-7974. 24-25 – Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival, Adams Park, Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. 25 – Music Festival, Duluth, 2-11pm. 770476-3434. 25-26 – Grant Park Summer Shade Festival. 404-521-0938. 26 – Miss Mary’s Ice Cream Crankin’, Roswell Town Square. 770-587-4712.

September 7-9 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000.

Events sometimes change, so phone for information before driving long distances.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

METRO ATLANTA ATLANTA ATTRACTIONS Atlanta Cyclorama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-658-7625 Atlanta History Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-814-4000 Atlanta Preservation Walking Tours . . . . . . . . 404-688-3353 Bulloch Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-992-1731 Callanwolde Fine Arts Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-872-5338 Carter Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-865-7100 Centennial Olympic Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-222-PARK Chattahoochee River Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-641-3705 CNN Studio Tour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-827-2300 Fernbank Museum of Natural History . . . . . . . 404-929-6300 Fox Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-881-2100 Georgia Aquarium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-581-4000 Georgia Department of Archives. . . . . . . . . . . 678-364-3700 Georgia Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-223-4636 Georgia State Capitol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-656-2844 Georgia World Congress Center . . . . . . . . . . . 404-223-4000 Gone With The Wind Museum, Marietta . . . . . 770-794-5576 Governor’s Mansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-261-1776 Heritage Green Sandy Springs. . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-851-9111 High Museum of Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-733-4400 Imagine It! Children’s Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-659-kids Kennesaw Mtn. Nat’l Battlefield . . . . . . . . . . . 770-427-4686 Margaret Mitchell House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-249-7015 Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-528-1444 Marietta Museum of History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-794-5710 Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic Site . . . . . . . . 404-331-5190 Medieval Times. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-935-6878 Michael Carlos Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-727-4282 Museum of Civil War/Locomotive History . . . . 770-427-2117 Oakland Cemetery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-688-2107 Piedmont Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-875-7275 Road to Tara Museum, Jonesboro. . . . . . . . . . . 770-478-4800 Scott Antique Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 740-569-2800 Six Flags Over Georgia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-948-9290 Smith Plantation, Roswell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-641-3978 Southeastern Railway Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-476-2013 Stone Mountain Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-498-5690 Underground Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-523-2311 Woodruff Arts Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-733-4750 World of Coca Cola. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-676-5151 Wren’s Nest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-753-7735 Yellow River Game Ranch, Lilburn . . . . . . . . . . 770-972-6643 Zoo Atlanta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-624-9453

Chattahoochee River Summer Splash Near Sandy Springs The 5th Annual Chattahoochee River Summer Splash on July 28 will be one of the coolest events of the summer. Float in a kayak, canoe, or raft, and beat the heat in this six-mile journey of discovery down the Chattahoochee River. There will be live music, food, wildlife programs, exhibits, crafts for kids, and self-guided hikes for the entire family at Power’s Island. Park your vehicle at MEAG Power, 1470 Riveredge Parkway, located near Powers Island, and catch the free shuttle to Morgan Falls Dam to begin the river journey. Overflow parking will be available. The first shuttle is expected to leave MEAG Power at 8am. The river journey may take approximately three hours, depending on the river’s current and how much time is actually spent paddling. The last shuttle to MEAG Power will leave Powers Island at 4pm. Take your own boat, or rent a kayak, canoe, or raft from one of the park’s authorized outfitters who will also provide paddles and U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices. The $3 entrance fee will be waived. The Summer Splash is hosted by Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area and Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism. For more information, contact the Coast Guard station at 678-538-1200, or visit www.visitsandysprings.org, or call toll-free 866-511-7742.

Due to our early deadlines, some events are not posted yet. Therefore, you might want to check websites for more information.

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Sporting Events National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus Explore naval operations for the North and South through displays of uniforms, artillery, firearms, personal effects, flags, murals, a timeline exhibit, ships and ship replicas, and a battle simulator theater. Open daily 9am-5pm. See coupon in ad on page 20. 1002 Victory Drive, Columbus. 706-327-9798. www.portcolumbus.org. The Cool History programs are living history events that depict daily life in the Civil War sea services. They will begin June 2 with “Two Navies, One Ship: The USS/CSS Water Witch.” Imagine it’s a stormy night in June 1864, and Confederate naval forces are launching a raid to capture the ship sitting at anchor near Savannah as part of the Union blockade. This program will tell the compelling story of the ship, the sailors, and the brief but incredibly bloody battle. “Medical Mysteries” on July 7 will focus on Civil War surgery and medicine at sea through living history, reenactment, and multimedia programs. “Inventing a New Navy” on Aug. 4 will tell about Civil War ships with hybrid technology, composite armor, and stealth design; look at inventions and technological advancements in both Civil War navies; and look at the Navy Yard in Columbus and the engineering practiced there by Horace King and others.

BIKING

WATERSPORTS

June 2-9 . . . . . BRAG–Bike Ride Across Georgia 770-498-5153 June 9 . . . . . . Muddy Buddy Ride & Run Series Ga. Int’l. Horse Park, Conyers, 888-860-4224 June 30 . . . . . . . Cartersville Century Bike Ride (15, 30, 55, 100), 770-382-5500 July 8. . . . . . . . . Hospitality Hwy. Century Ride (100M, 60M, 23M, 9M), Sandy Springs/ Roswell Area, 866-511-7742

June 2, 21, Aug. 4, 25. Paddle the Flint (6-8 hrs) Flint RiverQuarium, Albany, 229-639-2650 June 2-30 . . . River Canoe Trips, Chattahoochee Nature Ctr., Sat. & Sun., 6pm, 770-992-2055 June 7, 28, July 12, 26, Aug. 9, 23 . . . . . Twilight Paddle, Flint RiverQuarium Albany, 229-639-2650 June 8, 15, 22 . . . . . Twilight Paddle, Sweetwater Creek St. Pk., Lithia Springs, 770-732-5871 June 9 . . Chattahoochee River Race & Festival Sandy Springs/Roswell, 404-352-9828 June 18, July 9, 23 . . . . . . . . NERA Paddle Trips Calhoun, 800-887-3811 July 28 . Chattahoochee River Summer Splash (6M), Sandy Springs, 678-538-1200

HIKES & RUNS June 2. . Toccoa, D-Day Run, 10K, 706-282-5055 June 16. . . . . . . . . . Roswell, 10K, 770-992-2055 Aug. 4 . . . . . . . . . . Kennesaw, Run for Wounded Warriors, 7am, 770-365-9871 Sept. 1. . . . . . . . . . Kingsland, 5K, 912-729-4382 (See www.atlantatrackclub.org for more races)

FISHING June 9 . . . . . . . . Fly Fishing, Mistletoe State Park Appling, 706-541-0321 June 9, July 14, Aug. 11 . . . . . Fly Fishing, Panola Mt. St. Pk., Stockbridge, 770-389-7801 July 6-7 . . . . . . St. Marys Kingfish Tournament Downtown, 912-729-7216 July 21, Aug. 18 . . . . . . . Fly Fishing, Sweetwater Creek St. Pk., Lithia Springs, 770-732-5871 Aug. 3-5 . . . . . . . . Atlanta Buckarama Hunting/ Fishing Expo, Expo Center, 770-787-7887 Aug. 17-18. . Perry Buckarama Hunting/Fishing Expo, Ga. Nat’l. Faigrounds, 770-787-7887 Aug. 17-18 . . . . . . . . . . . King Fish Tournament Fort McAllister Road, 912-312-0097 Events sometimes change, so phone for information before driving long distances.

GOLFING June 3-4 . . . . . Warrick Dunn Atlanta Celebrity Golf Classic, Golf Club of Ga., 770-664-8644 June 25-30. . . . . . . Dogwood Invitational, Druid Hills Golf Club, Atlanta, 404-377-1766 Aug. 30 . . . . . . . . Powell Memorial Golf Tourny Fields Ferry Club, Calhoun, 706-764-3810

RACING ROAD ATLANTA Braselton, 800-849-race, www.roadatlanta.com June 7-10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WERA June 15-17, Aug. 4-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NASA July 14-15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SCCA Regional Atlanta Motor Speedway . . . . . . . . . . Hampton 770-946-4211, atlantamotorspeedway.com Atlanta Dragway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Commerce 770-682-3782, www.atlantadragway.com Oglethorpe Speedway Park . . . . . . . . . . . Pooler 912-964-8200, www.ospracing.net Silver Dollar Raceway . . . . . . . . . . . Reynolds 478-847-4414, www.silverdollarraceway.com

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

Sporting Events MISCELLANEOUS

EQUESTRIAN SHOWS

June 2 . . . . . . . Trail Challenge/Adventure Race Fort Yargo St. Pk., Winder, 770-867-3489 June 16. . . . . . . Tree Top Excursions, Panola Mt. State Park, Stockbridge, 770-389-7801 June 17 . . . . . . . Fitness Series–Spring Triathlon Callaway Gardens, Pine Mt., 800-callaway June 21 . . . . . Tri the Parks Triathlon/Duathlon Mistletoe St. Pk., Appling, 800-864-7275 June 23. . . . . Creative Camp Cooking, Mistletoe State Park, Appling, 706-541-0321 June 30-Sept. 3 . . . . . Tallulah Gorge State Park Floor Hikes, selected dates, 706-754-7981 July 13-20 . Little League State Championship Richmond Hill, 912-756-4075 July 21-22, Aug. 11-12 . . . . Wilderness Survival Weekends, Amicalola Falls St. Pk. Dawsonville, 706-265-1969 July 26-30 . . . . . . . . S.E. Regional Little League Softball, Warner Robins, 888-288-wrga Aug. 3-10. . . . . . . . . S.E. Regional Little League Baseball, Warner Robins, 888-288-wrga Aug. 11 . . . . . Ga. Veterans Memorial Triathlon & Duathlon, Cordele, 229-273-1668 Aug. 24-26. . . . . . . . . Georgia Special Olympics Warner Robins, 888-288-wrga Sept. 19-22 . . . . . . . . Georgia Golden Olympics Warner Robins, 888-288-wrga

June 22-23 . . . . . . . . . . . .Mountain Top Rodeo Dahlonega, 706-864-6444 July 13-14 . . . . .Bartow Co. Saddle Club Rodeo Booth Museum, Cartersville, 706-218-0382 Aug. 13-14 . . . .Larry Phillips Memorial Rodeo Calhoun, 706-218-0382

GEORGIA INT’L HORSE PARK Conyers, 888-860-4224, www.conyersga.com June 1-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Arabian Summer Classic June 2, 30, Aug. 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Trail Rides June 13-17 . . . . . . . . . . . .Atlanta Summer Classic I June 20-24 . . . . . . . . . . . .Atlanta Summer Classic II June 29-July 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . .Stars & Stripes Circuit July 2-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .GQHA Big A Circuit July 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Arabian & All Breed Show Aug. 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gridiron Trail Rush

WILLS PARK Alpharetta, 404-518-9198, www.alpharetta.ga.us June 16-17 . .Good Old Summertime Horse Show June 23-24, July 28-29, Aug. 31-Sept. 1 . . . .Elite Horse Jumping June 30-July 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cheryl & Co. July 7-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Horseshoe Ventures July 14, Aug. 11 . . . . . . .Rolling Hills Saddle Club July 20-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ticket to Ride Benefit July 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .National Night Out Aug. 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Old Milton Saddle Club Aug. 18-19 . . . . . . . . .Jump Ahead Benefit Show Aug. 25-26 . . . . . .Brownwood Farm Horse Show

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Sporting Events BASEBALL Home Schedules

ROLLER DERBY

ATLANTA BRAVES

ROME BRAVES

Home Schedules

June 8-10 . . . . . . . .BLUE JAYS June 11-13 . . . . . . . .YANKEES June 15-17 . . . . . . . .ORIOLES June 26-28 . . . . . . . .D-BACKS June 29-July 1 . . .NATIONALS July 2-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . .CUBS July 13-15 . . . . . . . . . . . .METS July 17-19 . . . . . . . . . .GIANTS July 27-29 . . . . . . . . .PHILLIES July 30-Aug. 2 . . . . .MARLINS Aug. 3-5 . . . . . . . . . . .ASTROS Aug. 13-16 . . . . . . . . .PADRES Aug. 17-19 . . . . . . .DODGERS Aug. 31-Sept. 2 . . . . .PHILLIES 404-577-9100 www.atlantabraves.com

June 5-7 . . . . . . .GREENVILLE June 8-10 . . . . . . . .AUGUSTA June 14-17 . . . . .SAVANNAH June 25-28 . . . . .GREENVILLE June 29-July 3 .KANNAPOLIS July 10-13 . . .WEST VIRGINIA July 14-17 . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE July 27-29 . . . . . .SAVANNAH July 30-Aug. 2 . . . .AUGUSTA Aug. 8-11 . . . . .GREENSBORO Aug. 16-19 . . . . .LEXINGTON Aug. 28-30 . . . . . . .AUGUSTA 706-378-5144 www.romebraves.com

COLUMBUS ROLLER DERBY LEAGUE

AUGUSTA GREENJACKETS June 5-7 . . . . . .GREENSBORO June 11-13 . . . . . . . . . .ROME June 14-17 . . . . .GREENVILLE June 25-28 . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE June 29-July 3 . . .SAVANNAH July 10-13 . . . . . .GREENVILLE July 14-17 . . .WEST VIRGINIA July 27-29 . . . . . . . .HICKORY Aug. 3-6 . . . . . .CHARLESTON Aug. 13-15 . . . . .LAKEWOOD Aug. 23-26 . . . .GREENSBORO Aug. 31-Sept. 3 CHARLESTON 706-736-7889 greenjacketsbaseball.com

othing is so strong as gentleness. Nothing is so gentle as real strength.

SAVANNAH SAND GNATS June 1-3 . . . . . . . .GREENSBORO June 5-7 . . . . . . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE June 11-13 . . . . . .CHARLESTON June 21-24 . . . . . . . . . .AUGUSTA July 4-8 . . . . . . . . .CHARLESTON July 19-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ROME July 23-26 . . . . . . .KANNAPOLIS July 30-Aug. 2 . . .GREENSBORO Aug. 8-11 . . . . . . . . .GREENVILLE Aug. 13-15 . . . . . . . .LEXINGTON Aug. 20-22 . . . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE Aug. 23-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . .ROME 912-351-9150 www.sandgnats.com

Events sometimes change, so phone for information before driving long distances.

BASKETBALL Home Schedule ATLANTA DREAM

June 30 . . . . . . . .PENSACOLA July 22 . . . . . . . .SCENIC CITY Aug. 18 . . . . . . . . .MARIETTA www.columbusrollerderby league.com

MARIETTA DERBY DARLINS June 2 . . . . . . . . .PENSACOLA Aug. 11 . . .WEST KENTUCKY www.mariettaderby darlins.com

ATLANTA ROLLERGIRLS June 16 . . . . . . . . .Bout 1 & 2 July 21 . . . . . . . . . .Bout 1 & 2 Aug. 18 . . . . . . . . .Bout 1 & 2 www.atlantarollergirls.com

SAVANNAH DERBY DEVILS June 16 . . . . . .MYRTLE BEACH July 14 . . . . . .JACKSONVILLE Aug. 8 . . . . . . . . .GREENVILLE www.savannahderby.com

ARENA FOOTBALL Home Schedules GEORGIA FORCE June 2 . . . . . .NEW ORLEANS June 9 . . . . . . .JACKSONVILLE July 1 . . . . . . . . . . .ORLANDO July 14 . . . . . . . .PITTSBURGH 770-609-1300 www.georgiaforce.com

June 2 . . . . . . . . . . .CHICAGO COLUMBUS LIONS June 8 . . . . . .SAN ANTONIO June 9 . . . . . . . . . . . .ALBANY June 15 . . . . . . .LOS ANGELES June 16 . . . . . . . . .KNOXVILLE June 17 . . . . . .CONNECTICUT 706-653-4460 June 19 . . . . . . . . .NEW YORK Thou hast also given www.columbuslions.net June 26 . . . . . . . . . .INDIANA me the shield Aug. 22 . . . . . . . . . .CHICAGO of Thy salvation, Aug. 25 . . . . . . . .MINNESOTA And Thy right hand Aug. 28 . . . . . . . . . . . .TULSA upholds me; Aug. 30 . . . . . .WASHINGTON and Thy gentleness Home Schedule Sept. 2 . . . . . .CONNECTICUT makes me great. Sept. 5 . . . . . . . . . . .INDIANA ATLANTA FALCONS PSALM 18:35 Sept. 9 . . . . . .WASHINGTON Aug. 9 . . . . . . . . .BALTIMORE NASB Sept. 11 . . . . . . . . . . .SEATTLE Aug. 16 . . . . . . . .CINCINNATI GOD’S LITTLE 404-604-2626 404-223-8444 INSTRUCTION BOOK Honor Books, Inc., Tulsa, OK www.AtlantaDream.net www.atlantafalcons.com 12 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

FOOTBALL

Entertainment Venues in Georgia AARON’S AMPHITHEATRE at Lakewood

Atlanta, 404-627-9704, www.aaronsamphitheater.com

June 9 June 23 June 29 July 10 July 13 July 14 July 21 July 24 July 25 July 26 Aug. 2 Aug. 11 Aug. 18 Aug. 25

Jimmy Buffett Iron Maiden & Alice Cooper Def Leppard & Poison Big Time Rush Miranda Lambert Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival 311 & Slightly Stooped KISS & Motley Crue Wiz Khalifa & Mac Miller Vans Warped Tour Identity Festival Kiss 104.1 Flashback Festival Toby Keith & Brantley Gilbert Phish

ASHFORD MANOR

Athens, 706-769-2633, www.ambedandbreakfast.com

July 3 Aug. 4 Sept. 3

Sons of Sailors Randall Bramblett Sensational Sounds of Motown

ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN

404-876-5859, www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org

June 1 June 22 July 20 Aug. 10 Aug. 11 Aug. 24 Sept. 7

K.D. Lang, Jane Sieberry Vince Gill, Sarah Jarosz Neko Case Merle Haggard, Chris Janson Keb Mo/Aaron Neville Mary Chapin Carpenter Chris Isaak

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

June 1 June 2 June 5-6 June 8 June 16 June 29

Yanni WWE Smackdown World Tour Sesame Street Live/Elmo’s Super Heroes Dancing Stars of Augusta Gospel Explosion/Shirley Caesar Fresh Music Festival

CALLANWOLDE

Atlanta, 404-872-5338, www.callanwolde.org

June 15 Serenata Latin Jazz June 22, Aug. 24 Tango Night June 29 Joe Gransden & Maria Howell Classic Jazz July 13 Bernard Linnette Interactive Jazz July 29 Faith Electric Blend Jazz Aug. 10 Scott Glazier’s Mojo Dojo– Southern Soul Jazz

CLASSIC CHASTAIN

Atlanta, 404-733-5000, www.classicchastain.org

June 13 June 16 June 22 July 11 July 13 July 14 July 21 July 25 July 27 July 28 Aug. 4 Aug. 8 Aug. 18 Aug. 31

Colbie Caillat, Gavin DeGraw, Andy Grammer Anita Baker Music of the Night Diana Krall Summerland Kenny Rogers & Glen Campbell Temptations & Four Tops Joe Crocker, Huey Lewis, The News Brandi Carlile, Josh Ritter, Royal City Band Seal, Macy Gray ASO & Arrival ASO & John Williams Sunset Jazz Foreigner, Night Ranger

COBB CIVIC CENTER

Marietta, 770-528-8450, www.cobbcountyga.gov

July 6-8 July 13-14

Cox Gem/Jewelry Show/Sale Antique Gun & Military Collectibles Show/Sale July 21-22 Gun & Knife Show July 28-29 Collectible Glass Show/Sale Aug. 3-4 Children’s Consignment Sale Aug. 11-12 S.E. Civil War Show/Sale Aug. 18-19 Eastman Gun & Knife Show Aug. 24-25 Lutador Grappling Tournament Sept. 1-2 Gun & Knife Show

COBB ENERGY CENTRE

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

June 6-7 June 8-9 June 22 July 14 July 27

Tyler Perry’s Madea Gets a Job Tyler Perry’s Haves & Have Nots Kristin Chenoweth Son by 4 & EMA Super Why

COLUMBUS CIVIC CENTER

706-494-8330, www.columbusciviccenter.org

CHASTAIN PARK

June 12-13

June 7 June 15 June 27 June 29 July 3 July 8 July 24

June 22 July 28 Aug. 3

Atlanta, 404-233-2227, www.chastainseries.com

Sting Willie Nelson Earth Wind & Fire Al Green Sarah McLachlan Super Group Reunites Chicago & Doobie Bros.

Sesame Street Live: Elmo’s Super Heroes Diggy Simmons Beatdown in C-Town Fresh Music Festival

Due to our early deadlines, some events are not posted yet. Therefore, you might want to check websites for more information.

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Entertainment Venues in Georgia IMPERIAL THEATRE

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

June 16 June 27

I’ll Be My Brother’s Keeper Robert Earl Keen

MABLE HOUSE AMPHITHEATER

Mableton, 770-819-7765, www.mablehouse.org

FOX THEATRE

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

June 1-10 June 16 June 23 July 6 July 21 July 22 July 24-29 July 31 Aug. 7-12 Aug. 14-19 Aug. 26

Jersey Boys Kathy Griffin Norah Jones Ringo Starr & His All Star Band The B-52’s Nicki Minaj The Producers The Wiggles Live Cathy Rigby is Peter Pan The Addams Family Fresh Best Band

FREDERICK BROWN, JR. AMPHITHEATER Peachtree City, 770-631-0630, www.amphitheater.org

June 1 June 9 June 23 July 3 July 7 July 14 July 21 Aug. 11

George Benson Golden Dragon Acrobats Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack Fayette Pops Symphony Orchestra Swingin’ Medallions Richard Marx Solo with 20 Strings Glenn Miller Orchestra Billy Ocean

GEORGIA DOME

Atlanta, 404-223-8200, www.gadome.com

June 3

Kenny Chesney & Tim McGraw

June 8 June 16 June 23 June 29 July 7 July 27 July 28 Aug. 11 Aug. 18 Aug. 24

Golden Dragon Acrobats Randall Bramblett Band Jazz Flavors Steel Magnolia TBA Lorrie Morgan TBA Marty Stuart Blair Crimmins & the Hookers Little Texas & Restless Heart

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

June 15 June 18 June 21 June 23 June 28 July 1 July 7 July 13

ASO Brass Quintet Hotlanta Dixieland Jazz Band Pianist Natasha Paremski Violinist Rachel Barton Pine Linden Quartet Linden Quartet Fiddler April Verch Two Pianos/Julie Coucheron/ Elizabeth Pridgen

MILLER PARK

Marietta, 770-528-8875, www.cobbcountyga.gov

June 2 Atlanta Radio Club Hamfest June 9 Praise in the Park June 15-16, Aug. 24-25 Cobb Classic Rodeo June 23 Georgia Dachshund Races July 26-28 Kids Consignment Sale Aug. 17-18 Shrine Car Show Aug. 25-26 Home/Personal Protection Expo

GEORGIA WORLD CONGRESS CENTER

NORTH ATLANTA TRADE CENTER

June 6 June 17 July 2-3 July 7

June 22-24 June 23-24 July 14-15 Aug. 11 Aug. 17-19 Aug. 25-26

Atlanta, 404-223-4000, www.gwcc.com

July 27-28 July 28 Sept. 1-2

V103 Car & Bike Show Real Men Cook Peachtree Health & Fitness Expo Georgia Bodybuilding/Figure/ Bikini Championship Atlanta Gospel & Healthcare Festival Drum Corp International Music Makers Trade Show/Conf.

770-279-9899, www.northatlantatradecenter.com

Atlanta Coin & Currency Expo Eastman’s Gun Show Atlanta Exotic Bird Fair Golden Spike Train Show Folk Fest 2012 Eastman’s Gun Show

PHILIPS ARENA

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

Neil Diamond Roger Waters June 9-10 Baby Shower Expo Hot 107.9 Birthday Bash 17 June 22 Lady Antebellum LMFAO & Guests June 24 Georgia Bridal Show Apassionata June 26 One Direction Cirque du Soleil/Michael July 6-7 Scrapbook Expo Jackson Immortal World Aug. 3-5 GON Outdoor Blast July 2 Coldplay Aug. 5 American Idol Live! Tour 2012 July 26 Aerosmith Aug. 9-12 Forrest Wood Cup/ July 27-28 Maxwell FLW Outdoors Expo Aug. 29 Enrique Iglesias, Jennifer Aug. 18-19 Intergalactic Bead/Jewelry Show Lopez, Wisin & Yandel 14 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

GWINNETT CENTER

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

June 6 June 13 June 16 June 20 June 23 June 29-July 1

Entertainment Venues in Georgia PUNCHLINE COMEDY THEATRE

STRAND THEATRE

June 8-9 June 14-17 June 22-24 June 25-27 Aug. 17-19

June 1 June 15-July 1 July 4-8 July 14 Aug. 26

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

Christopher Titus Dom Irrera Christian Finnegan Pauly Shore John Pinette

Marietta, 770-293-0080, www.earlsmithstrand.org

Half Dozen Brass Band Gypsy Mo’ Motown Jazz on the Square Silent Comedy Shorts

RIVERCENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

TABERNACLE

June 8 June 10

June 10 June 14 June 17 June 20 June 25 July 7 July 12

Columbus, 706-256-3600, www.rivercenter.org

The Happy Together Tour Night to Honor Israel

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

June 4-9 June 11-16 June 18-23 June 25-30 July 2-7 July 9-14 July 16-21 Aug. 12

Rapunzel Puppet Show Wiley & the Hairy Man Puppet Show Sleeping Beauty Puppet Show Arabian Adventure Puppet Show Zany Zoo Puppet Show Rumplestiltskin Puppet Show Hansel & Gretel Puppet Show Atlanta Concert Band

SAUTEE-NACOOCHEE CENTER 706-878-3300, www.snca.org

June 9 12 Rivers Arts Festival June 16 Outdoor Concert June 22-24 Community Chorale Concerts June 23, July 28 Folk Pottery Demos June 23, July 28, Aug. 25 Contra Dance/ Potluck Dinner July 5-22 Headwaters–Didja’ Hear?

Atlanta, 404-659-9022, www.tabernacleatl.com

Childish Gambino Afrojack, Shermanology The Cult with Against Me! Aziz Ansari Tenacious D Collective Soul Kaskade

TASTE OF THE LAKE CONCERT SERIES Lake Lanier Islands, 770-932-7200 www.lakelanierislands.com

July 7 Aug. 11 Aug. 18

Gloriana A1A Banks & Shane

TERRACE AMPHITHEATER Big Canoe Chapel 706-579-5099, www.bigcanoechapel.org

June 2 June 30 July 28 Aug. 25

100 Years of Broadway U.S. Army Jazz Guardians Band Banks & Shane Kurt Thomas

VERIZON WIRELESS AMPHITHEATRE Atlanta, 404-733-5010, www.vzwamp.com

SAVANNAH CIVIC CENTER

800-351-7469, www.savannahcivic.com

June 3 June 17 June 23 June 19-20 July 27 Aug. 10 Aug. 17 Aug. 18

WWE Smackdown World Tour Father’s Day Gospel Explosion Asian Festival Sesame Street Live: Elmo’s Super Heroes Fresh Music Festival Jim Gaffigan George Jones Eddie Griffin

June 3 June 7 June 8 June 10 July 4 July 10 July 14 July 16 July 20 July 21 July 31 Aug. 12 Aug. 19 Aug. 24

Jackie Evancho & ASO The Kooks & Kimbra Bon Iver with the Staves ZZ Top, 3 Doors Down, Gretchen Wilson ASO All-American Celebration Further Crosby, Stills, & Nash Barenaked Ladies, Blues Traveler, Big Head Todd, The Monsters, Cracker Dukes of September ASO–Celebrate Beatles Yes, Procol Harum ASO//II Divo Linkin Park & Incubus My Morning Jacket, Band of Horses

WILD ADVENTURES

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

June 2 Styx SOUTHERN GROUND AMPHITHEATER June 16 Sanctus Real Fayetteville, 770-461-6029, June 23 Charlie Wilson, Chrisette Michele www.villagesamphitheater.com June 30 Boston June 9 Travis Tritt July 7 Mandisa June 30 5th Dimension July 21 World Classic Rockers July 21 Kingston Trio July 28 Sugarland, Lauren Alaina, Canaan Smith July 28 The Zombies Aug. 11 Skillet Aug. 18 The Grass Roots June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 15

Stay and See Geo Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

This 26-mile round trip from Blue Ridge to McCaysville offers spectacular views of scenic valleys, forests, rolling hills, and the beautiful Toccoa River. This three to four hour round trip is over tracks built over 100 years ago and recently upgraded. Most stops include a trip to McCaysville. The train is diesel-powered and includes climate-controlled vintage coach cars, an open-air car, and a concession car with snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. The ticket office is in the 100 year old depot in Blue Ridge, only 95 miles north of Atlanta. Reservations are strongly encouraged. For schedules, ticket prices, and more information, visit www.brscenic.com or e-mail info-brscenic.com or call 877-413-8724 or 706-632-8724. (See article on page 28.)

ComSouth Hambone Jam in Fort Valley The 8th annual ComSouth Hambone Jam will be held in Downtown Fort Valley on Friday, September 7, and Saturday, September 8. Thirty-five plus teams from around the Southern U.S. will square off in a BBQ burn, and it will be a finger-lickinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; good time. Teams will be competing for Georgia Barbecue bragging rights and $$$. Cash prizes, trophies, and plaques will be awarded for Grand Champion, Reserve Grand Champion, and First, Second, Third Place for Pork Loin, Pork Ribs, and Pulled Pork. The ComSouth Hambone Jam is recognized by the Georgia Barbecue Association as the Georgia State BBQ Championship. The Georgia Barbecue Association is the Southâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest up and coming barbecue competition sanctioning organization. Some of the best barbecue cooks are right here in the State of Georgia! Just a short time ago, the GBA was conceived by a handful of individuals who thought it was time to let the rest of the nation know that the best barbecue comes out of the South. Since that time, the Georgia Barbecue Association has grown to over 200 members, 100+ certified judges, coupled with 80+ competition cook teams, and those numbers are steadily growing with each new month. For more information, visit www.comsouthhambonejam.com or call Kathie Lambert at 478-825-5986.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

orgia this Summer Butternut Creek Festival in Blairsville

The 14th Annual Butternut Creek Festival Arts & Crafts Show on July 21-22 in Blairsville will offer a wonderful summer weekend getaway to the beautiful North Georgia mountains. The scenery is exceptional at this time of the year, the driving is easy and non-congested, and at the Butternut Creek Festival shopping opportunities are beyond description. Seventy of the finest artists, artisans, and craftsmen will be assembled in Meeks Park at the Union County Recreation Department Complex which is located on the south side of Highway 76/515, just 0.7 mile west of Blairsville. Festival hours will be 10am-5pm both days. Festival parking, admission, and shuttle will be free. The Festival is a juried show, limited to 70 of the finest artists and hand craftsmen from throughout the mountain area and the Southeast. For the third consecutive year this Festival has been named a TOP 20 Event in the Southeast. Through the jurying process, the show strives to feature a balanced presentation of unique and original art and hand crafted works. In addition to these exhibitors there will be live mountain arts demonstrators and 4 community service booths: bake sale by the Union Hospital Auxiliary, quilting demo and quilt raffle by the Misty Mountain Quilt Guild, the Friends of the Union County Library, and the Artists of the Union County Senior Center. For information, phone 706-781-1221 or visit www.butternutcreekfestival.com.

A Summer of Festivals in Blairsville The Green Bean Festival will be held on the Blairsville Square on July 27-28. There will be a craft fair and demonstrations, live entertainment, festival foods, storytelling, a green bean pizza eating contest, canning classes and a tour of a canning plant, a green bean recipe contest, children’s activities, a 4-H talent show, antique tractor and old tool displays, a pageant, a dance, and more. Many other summer events are scheduled for Blairsville. The Scottish Festival & Highland Games will be held on June 9-10 at Meeks Park, the Mountain Fling Arts & Crafts Show at N. Ga. Tech. College on June 30July 1, and the Butternut Creek Festival at Meeks Park on July 21-22 (see article above). Other summer events will include Friday concerts at the Courthouse at 7pm; Cruise-ins on the Square on June 16, July 21, and Aug. 18; the Blairsville Cruisers at the Walmart parking lot on June 1, July 6, and Aug. 3 from 5pm-dusk; several horse shows; fireworks at Meeks Park on July 4th; an Independence Day Celebration at Vogel State Park on July 4; and more. For information, phone 877-745-5789 or visit www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com.

Monthly Events in Georgia June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – AUGUSTA – 1st Friday, Downtown, 5-10pm. 706-826-4702. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – BLAIRSVILLE – Cruisers, Walmart Parking Lot, 5pm. 706-745-5789. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – BRUNSWICK – First Friday, Downtown, 5-8pm. 912-265-4032. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – DAHLONEGA – 1st Friday Night Concerts, Downtown. 706-864-3513. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – ELLIJAY – First Fridays, Downtown, 5-8pm. 706-635-7400. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – LAWRENCEVILLE – Brown Bag Concerts, Courthouse, 11am. 770-822-5450.

June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – ROME – First Friday Concerts, 7-10pm. 800-444-1834. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – SAVANNAH – Oyster Roast/Fireworks, Westin. 912-201-2000. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 – THOMASVILLE – First Friday, Downtown, 5-9pm. 229-227-7020. June 1-July 27 – WINDER – Fun at Fort Yargo, Fridays, 7-8pm. 706-867-3489. June 1-30 (except Wed.), July 1-31 (except Wed.), Aug. 2-31 (various dates) – BLUE RIDGE – Scenic Railway. 877-413-8724. June 1-Aug. 31 – BLAIRSVILLE – Misty Mt. RR Tours, Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat., 2pm. 706-745-9819. (Continued on the next page)

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Merritt Pecan Company in Weston Merritt Pecan Company, located on Hwy. 520 in Weston, specializes in farm-fresh pecans and offers a large selection of items including pecans, pecan candies, brittle, divinity, jams, jellies, sauces, souvenirs, homemade pies and cakes, t-shirts, and cookbooks. Gift baskets are available and can be customized for you. 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 ATM located inside, clean, automated restrooms, a walking area for dogs, and plenty of room for bus and camper parking. Local produce items, ranging from peas to peaches, are available when in season. Football fans will find souvenir items for Georgia, Auburn, and other local teams ranging from books to back scratchers! Merritt Pecan Company, offering a “step back in time” to the days of the general store, is decorated with interesting memorabilia of interest to young and old. The coffee is always ready, the employees are friendly and helpful, and the southern hospitality is unsurpassed. The store is open from 7am-7pm daily except for Christmas Day. For information, phone 800-762-9152 or visit www.merritt-pecan.com.

Monthly Events in Georgia June 1-Aug. 31 – BLAIRSVILLE – Friday Night Concerts, Courthouse, 7pm. 706-745-5493. June 1-Aug. 31 – SAUTEE NACOOCHEE – Pickin’ on the Porch, Fri., 6-9pm. 706-878-0144. June 1-Aug. 31 – WOODBINE – Opry, Fri. & Sat., 7-10pm. 912-576-3027. June 2, 9, 10 – ELLIJAY – Live Music at Cartecay Vineyards, 1:30-5:30pm. 706-698-9463. June 2, July 7, Aug. 4 – COLUMBUS – Cool History Programs, Port Columbus Civil War Naval Museum. 706-327-9798. June 2, July 7, Aug. 4 – DARIEN – 1st Saturday at Waterfront/1st Saturday at Ft. King

George. 10am-2pm. 912-437-4837. June 2-Aug. 3 – PINE MOUNTAIN – Flying High Circus, Callaway Gardens. 800-callaway. June 2, Aug. 4 – SAVANNAH – First Saturday on the River. 912-234-0295. June 2-Aug. 25 – DAHLONEGA – Appalachian Jam, Gold Museum, Sat. 2-5pm. 706-864-2257. June 2-Aug. 25 – HELEN – Saturday Music Concerts, Unicoi St. Pk., 8-10pm. 800-573-9659. June 2-Aug. 25 – NEWNAN – Pickin’ on the Square, Sat. 11am. 770-254-2627. June 2-Aug. 26 – HELEN – Visiting Artists, Unicoi Sate Park, Sat. & Sun. 800-573-9659. June 2-Aug. 30 – JASPER – Village Festival at Big Canoe, Sat. 912. 706-268-6392. June 2-Aug. 31 – SENOIA – Southern Living Idea House. 770-254-2627. June 3-Aug. 26 – AUGUSTA – Candlelight Jazz, Riverwalk, Sundays, 7pm. 706-495-6238. June 5,12,19,26 – AUGUSTA – Music in Appleby Garden, 8pm. 706-736-6244. June 7-Aug. 30 – McCAYSVILLE – Pickin’ in Horseshoe Bend, Thurs., 6pm. 706-632-7696. June 9-July 6 – BLUE RIDGE – Community Quilt Expo, Art Center. 706-632-2144. June 9, July 14, Aug. 11 – ALBANY – Freedom Singers Concert, Civil Rights Inst. 229-432-1698. June 9, July 14, Aug. 11 – NACOOCHEE – Second Saturday, Habersham Winery, 12-6pm. 706-878-9463. June 9, July 14, Aug. 18 – ST. MARYS – Starry Nights Music/Dance, Waterfront Park 800-433-0225. June 9,23, July 14,28, Aug. 11,25 – SAUTEE – Tour de la Cave/Barrel Tasting, Yonah Mt. Vineyards, Sat. 706-878-5522. June 10, July 8, Aug. 12 – MACON – Concerts, Washington Park, 7-9pm. 478-301-2008.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

Apple Pickin’ Jubilee in Ellijay The 17th annual Apple Pickin’ Jubilee will be held on weekends from Sept. 8- Oct. 28 from 9am-6pm at Hillcrest Orchards, nine miles east of Ellijay on Hwy. 52. Pick your own apples. Milk Buttercup the cow. Jump for joy on the Giant Jumping Pillow. Get lost in the “Corny Kid’s Maze.” Enjoy the giant slides. Ride the pedal cart track. There will be pig races, pony rides, tricycle rides, honey bee demonstrations, clogging, country bands, and wagon rides. Visit the Moonshine and Farm House Museums, the petting farm, the Children’s Play Area with a giant slide, and the Enchanted Forest and Nature Trail with scenes from nursery rhymes and fairy tales. An operating gristmill will be grinding cornmeal and grits. Grandma’s Bakery will serve fried apple pies, apple cider, apple fritters, apple cider donuts, fudge, and homemade ice cream. There will also be mountain barbecue and other vittles. All activities will be included for a $6 admission fee except for the petting farm which will have a separate $3 admission fee. For more information, visit www.hillcrestorchards.net or phone 706273-3838 or e-mail applelan@ellijay.com.

Monthly Events in Georgia June 10, July 8, Aug. 12 – NICHOLLS – Second Sundays on the Farm, General Coffee State Park. 912-384-7082. June 14, July 12, Aug. 9 – ELLIJAY – Cherry Log Pickin, Gilmer Sr. Ctr., Dntn. 706-635-3786. June 15, 17, 22, 24 – DAHLONEGA – North Georgia Chamber Music Festival Performances, North Georgia College. 706-864-3513. June 16, July 21, Aug. 18 – BLAIRSVILLE – Cruise-In on the Square, 4-8pm. 706-994-6643. June 16, July 21, Aug. 18 – CONYERS – Olde Town Summer Music Festival, 7-11pm. 770602-2606. June 16, July 21, Aug. 18 – SAUTEE – Music Series, Sautee Nacoochee Vineyards. 706878-1056. June 21, July 7, Aug. 16 – BLAIRSVILLE – Shape Note Singing, Courthouse, 6:30pm. 706745-5493. June 22, 23, 30, July 13, 14, 21, 28, Aug. 18, 25 – CORDELE – SAM Shortline Excursion Train. 877-427-2457. June 22, July 27, Aug. 24 – BLUE RIDGE – Classic Car Cruise-In, D.Q., 6pm. 706-838-4901. June 23, July 28, Aug. 25 – JASPER – JMA Cruise-In, Downtown, 4-8pm. 706-692-1164. June 24, July 29, Aug. 26 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Dinner Dance, J. I. Club Hotel. 912-635-5155. June 28, July 26, Aug. 30 – COLUMBUS – Tours of Haunted Port Columbus, Civil War Naval Museum. 706-327-9798. Aug. 2-30 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Brunswick Bazaar/Farmers Market, Waterfront Park, Tues., Thurs., Sat. 912-262-6934.

1-2 – GRAY – Gray Station Better Hometown Daylily Festival. 478-986-5199. 1-2 – HELEN – Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race, Helendorf Inn. 706-878-2271. 1-3 – MARIETTA-RINGGOLD – Dixie Hwy. 90-Mile Yard Sale. 770-387-1357. 1-23 – CORDELE – Watermelon Days Festival, various venues. 229-273-1668. 2 – ALTO – Spring Fling Parade & Festival, 11am-4pm. 706-778-8035. 2 – EATONTON – Putnam County Dairy Festival, downtown. 706-473-0336. 2 – GRIFFIN – June Jam, Downtown, 6:3011pm. 770-228-5356. 2 – MADISON – Peach State Blues, Town Park. 678-698-8753. 2 – NEWNAN – CVPA Car, Tractor, Motorcycle Show, Fairgrounds. 678-850-1755.

June 1 – NEWNAN – Masterworks Chorale Concert, Centre for Performing Arts. 770-254-2787. 1-2 – BYRON – Georgia Peach Festival. 478420-0072. June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Watermelon Days Festival in Cordele Visit the Cordele-Crisp County area June 1-23 for the 63rd Annual Watermelon Days Festival, and celebrate the crop that has made the area famous. The main day of the festival will be Saturday, June 23, and will feature a parade, arts & crafts, entertainment, free slices of watermelon, truck and car display, antique tractor and equipment display, and watermelon related competitions such as seed spitting, fast eating, etc. A dance will be held that evening with entertainment presented by Renegade. Events planned from June 1-23 will include a dog show, pageant, road races, photo contest, puppet show, watermelon decoration contest, gospel singing, fishing rodeo, quilt display, worship service, horseshoe tournament, and more. Also, enjoy a ride on the famous SAM Shortline Excursion Train. Known for its melons, Cordele-Crisp County was designated the “Watermelon Capital of the World” for having the sweetest and most abundant watermelons. More than 200 million pounds of watermelons each year are shipped through the Cordele State Farmer Market. For more information and a schedule of activities, visit www.cordelecrispga.com or phone 229-273-1668.

June 5 – FORT VALLEY – Spaghetti & Jazz, Austin Theater, 5-8pm. 478-420-0072. 5 – ROME – Patriotic Concert/3 Rivers Singers/ New Horizons Band, City Auditorium, 7:30pm. 800-234-3154. 5-9 – FORT VALLEY – Georgia Peach Festival. 478-420-0072. 7 – ALBANY – Shades of Gold Art Show, Albany Museum of Arts, 12-2pm. 229-435-6789.

9 – CALHOUN – Mustang/Ford Show & Swap Meet, High School. 706-625-2677. 9 – CARTERSVILLE – Great Locomotive Chase Bus Tour. 770-382-3818. 9 – JASPER – Car & Truck Show, County Line Baptist Church. 706-253-2694. 9 – MADISON – Roots of Gospel Music Concert, African American Museum. 706-3429191. Mad Hatter Tea Party, Steffen Thomas Museum of Art, 2-4pm. 706-342-7557. 9 – McDONOUGH – Corvette, Car, Bike, Truck Show/Festival, Heritage Park. 678-860-8806. 9 – NORTHEAST GEORGIA – Arts Tour. 800-835-2559. 9 – ROME – Symphony Orchestra/Clock Tower Jazz Ensemble, Darlington, 7pm. 706-291-7967. 9 – SAUTEE-NACOOCHEE – 12 Rivers Art Festival, Art Center. 706-878-3300. 9 – ST. MARYS – Fun in the Sun Expo, Downtown, 912-882-4927. Sand Gnat BBQ Challenge, Downtown, 912-882-4000. 9 – TYBEE ISLAND – Tour of Homes. 912786-9386. 9 – WARM SPRINGS – Rosie the Riveter/DDay Remembrance, FDR’s Little White House. 706-655-5870. 9-10 – BLAIRSVILLE – Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Meeks Park. 706-745-5789. 9-10 – CAVE SPRINGS – Arts Festival. 800234-3154. 10 – LAWRENCEVILLE – Bridal Show, Gwinnett Courthouse, 1-4pm. 770-822-5450. 14-16 – DEARING – McCorkle’s Giant Plant Sale, Neals Mill Farm. 706-595-6052. 15 – LAWRENCEVILLE – Rock ‘n Rollin to 80’s Music (roller skates), Bethesda Center, 6:308:30pm. 770-417-2200. 15 – NEWNAN – Wine Walk, Downtown, 5-9pm. 770-254-2627. 15-16 – DAHLONEGA – Christian Music Nights, New River Park. 706-864-2082.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

Big Haynes Creek Wildlife Festival in Conyers The Big Haynes Wildlife Festival gives a “hoot” about wildlife. The 6th Annual Big Haynes Creek Wildlife Festival will be filled with reptile shows, animal exhibits, living history, storytelling, and live entertainment. Don’t miss the new Parrot interactive show, and let your taste buds come alive with primitive cooking demonstrations. Meet the star owls of the event, Boo, Czar, Nadia and Banshee, as they take flight during the Birds of Prey Show. Keep a look out for “Hoot” the owl to win fun prizes! Shop among unique gifts within the Artist Market, and become a part of the festival by participating in one of the many hands-on activities. The event will take place on the Grand Prix Plaza at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers on August 25-26. The festival will be open to the public from 10am-5pm. Parking will be free, and admission will be only $5 with children 4 and under free. For information, phone the Georgia International Horse Park at 770-860-4190 or visit www.bighaynescreekwildlifefestival.com.

June

July

16 – BLUE RIDGE – Maxwell Taylor Concert, Downtown, 7-9pm. 706-632-2144. 16 – EUHARLEE – Covered Bridge Que. 404277-9268. 16 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Horton House Living History Reenactment. 912-635-4036. 16 – MADISON – On the Porch Musical Concert, African American Museum. 706-342-9191. 16 – ROME – Iraq Veterans Parade, 11am. 800-234-3154. 16-17 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Georgia Sea Island Festival, Gascoigne Park, Epworth. 912634-0330. 17 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Julie Wilde & Bohemian Dream Band, Neptune Park, 7-9pm. 912-262-6934. 18 – HIAWASSEE – Happy Together Tour, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. 706-896-4191. 20-24 – ATHENS – AthFest Music & Arts Festival, Downtown. 800-653-0603. 23 – APPLING – Mountain Dulcimer Workshop, Mistletoe St. Pk., 10:30am. 706-541-0321. 23 – CORDELE – Watermelon Days Festival’s Main Day, Downtown. 229-273-1668. 23 – HIAWASSEE – Vince Gill, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. 706-896-4191. 23 – McDONOUGH – Atlanta Caribbean Spring Festival, Square. 770-898-3196. 23-24 – JASPER – Texaco Country Showdown, Rocco’s Pub. 706-692-4100. 30 – PLAINS – Pig Pickin’. 229-824-5373. 30 – WASHINGTON – Robert Toombs 202nd Birthday, Toombs House. 706-678-2226. 30-31 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Ga. Coastal Artists Guild Weekend Show, Glynn Art Gallery. 912-638-8770. 30-July 1 – BLAIRSVILLE – Mountain Fling Arts & Crafts Show, N. Ga. Tech. 706-896-0932. 30-July 1 – RUTLEDGE – Sunflower Farm Festival. 404-433-5646.

(See pages 26-28 for Independence Day events.) 6-8 – TYBEE ISLAND – Tybee Arts Associaton Show & Sale. 912-786-5920. 7 – LAVONIA – Cherokees in the Tugaloo Valley, Tugaloo State Park. 706-356-4362. 7 – PINE MOUNTAIN – 1950’s Dance, FDR State Park Amphitheater, 6-9pm. 706-663-4858. 7 – WARM SPRINGS – FDR Look-A-Like Contest, FDR’s Little White House. 706-655-5870. 7-8 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Sunshine Festival Arts & Crafts Show, Pier Village. 912-2800023. 20-29 – HIAWASSEE – Georgia Mountain Fair, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. 706-896-4191. 21 – CHATSWORTH – Vann House Days, Chief Vann House. 706-695-2598.

APPLE PICKIN’ JUBILEE Sept. 8-Oct. 28 (Weekends)

our y k c i P ples. p a n ow

17tuhal

Ann

Pony Rides - Playground - Cow Milking - Pig Races Wagon Rides - Music - Petting Farm - Pedal Karts Food - Giant Jumping Pillow - Kids Maze Giant Slides - Fair Food - Grist Mill 9 a.m.-6 p.m. • $6 per person (Petting Farm admission add $3 per person)

HILLCREST ORCHARDS Hwy. 52, 9 miles east of Ellijay

706-273-3838

www.hillcrestorchards.net • applelan@ellijay.com

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Perspectives Georgia Pottery Invitational in Watkinsville The 10th Annual Perspectives 2012: Georgia Pottery Invitational from August 31-September 19 will showcase the work of 50 potters from all corners of the state and will exemplify the finest ceramicists in Georgia. Held from 10am to 5pm daily, a portion of the proceeds will benefit CERF, Craft Emergency Relief Fund. Featuring over 5000 pieces of pottery for sale, an Opening Reception and Gala, a Preview Sale, educational exhibitions, gallery talks, workshops, free weekend pottery demonstrations, and studio tours, the Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation will be hosting this three-week event at the OCAF Art Center in Watkinsville. A new addition this year will be an exhibition of Ikebana Flower Arrangements where several members of the School of Ikebana Atlanta Chapter will display floral arrangements created using the ikebana concept. This is a disciplined art form in which nature and humanity are brought together to create a rhythm of color, line and form. Perspectives 2012: Georgia Pottery Invitational is an annual event established by volunteers to recognize and promote quality utilitarian pottery produced by established Georgia potters and promote pottery as a craft and art form consistent with the OCAF mission. It is Georgia’s largest annual pottery exhibition and sale and highlights a wide collection of styles, forms, colors, and price range in contemporary functional pottery. For more information, visit www.ocaf.com or call 706-769-4565.

July 21 – MADISON – Jazz Concert at Town Park, African American Museum. 706-342-9191. 21-22 – BLAIRSVILLE – Butternut Creek Festival, Meeks Park. 706-781-1221. 23, 30, Aug. 6 – CALHOUN – Calhoun’s Got Talent, Harris Arts Center. 706-629-2599. 27 – MADISON – Firefly Festival Frolic, Town Park, 7-9pm. 706-342-1251. 27-28 – BLAIRSVILLE – Georgia Green Bean Festival, Civic Center. 877-745-5789. 27-28 – HELEN – Folk Life Traditions, Unicoi State Park. 800-573-9659. Open Car Show, Edelweiss Strasse . 706-795-2264.

28 – LAWRENCEVILLE – Youth Sports Expo, Rhodes Jordan Park. 770-822-8886. 28 – MACON – Bragg Jam. 478-743-1074. 28 – MADISON – Firefly Festival Twilight Picnic, Town Park. 8-11pm. 706-342-1251. 28-29 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Franklin Pond String Quartet, Mistletoe Cottage, 7pm. 8774jekyll. 29 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Terry “Doc” Handy, Neptune Park, 7-9pm. 912-262-6934. 30 – CALHOUN – New Echota CelebrationTime of Ripe Corn Moon. 706-624-1321.

August 2 – RICHMOND HILL – National Night Out, Gregory Park, 6-9pm. 912-756-2837. 2-5 – ALABAMA to MICHIGAN and THROUGH GEORGIA – World’s Longest Yard Sale (127 Corridor Sale). 800-327-3945. 4 – ATHENS – Maternity & Baby Fair. Classic Center. 800-918-6393. 4 – WARM SPRINGS – Roosevelt’s Antique Roadshow, FDR’s Little White House. 706-6555870. 4-5 – CARTERSVILLE – Gun Show of the South, Brown Conference Ctr. 563-927-8176. 6 – CALHOUN – Calhoun’s Got Talent, Harris Arts Center. 706-629-2599. 6 – SAVANNAH – Rockin’ Cigar Box Guitar Concert, Sea Maritime Museum. 912-232-1511. 7 – DEARING – National Night Out, Old Dearing School. 706-986-4900. 10-11 – CARTERSVILLE – N.W. Ga. Big Boys Toys Expo, Brown Conf. Center. 706-291-9496. 14 – WARNER ROBINS – Auction, Raffle, Taste of Local Cuisine, Museum of Aviation, 6:30pm. 478-926-6870.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

Georgia Golden Olympics, Museum of Aviaion in Warner Robins The Georgia Golden Olympics will be held in Warner Robins on September 19-22 and will be open to adults ages 50 and older. Events will include tennis, golf, swimming, track and field, cycling, bowling, table tennis, horseshoes, billiards, and more. Events will be divided into age categories, and medals will be awarded for each. Reservations must be received by Aug. 1. For more information, rules, and registration, visit www.georgiagoldenolympics.org. The Museum of Aviation, one of the largest aviation museums in the U.S., has more than 90 aircraft on public display and an award-winning exhibit on WWII D-Day. Admission is free. For more information, phone 478-9266870 or visit www.museumofaviation.org. The Museum will host an Auction, Raffle, and Taste of Local Cuisine on July 14 at 6:30pm. More than 400 items will be offered in silent and live auctions, and 30 or more restaurants and caterers will offer samples of their signature dishes from 7-8pm. Admission will be $100 per couple which will include the auction, cuisine, and a chance to win big prizes. Other upcoming events will include the Georgia Special Olympics on Aug. 24-26, the S.E. Regional Little League Softball Tournament on July 26-30, the S.E. Regional Little League Baseball Tournament on Aug. 3-10, and the Mossy Creek Barnyard Festival Oct. 20-21. For more information, phone 888-288-wrga or visit www.wrga.gov.

August 16-18 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Beach Music Festival. 877-4jekyll. 17 – LAWRENCEVILLE – Family Campout, Tribble Mill Park. 770-418-2331. 17-19 – CLARKESVILLE – Antique Car & Truck Show. 706-754-3987. 18 – ROME – Celebrity Dance, City Auditorium, 7pm. 800-444-1834. 25 – CARTERSVILLE – Flintknapping, Etowah Indian Mounds. 770-387-3747. 25 – HELEN – Gold Fever, Smithgall Woods. 706-878-3087. 25 – PLAINS – Supper/Night to Fight Cancer with Pres. Jimmy Carter & Paula Deen, Community Center. 229-312-1700. 25-26 – CONYERS – Big Haynes Creek Wildlife Festival, Ga. Int’l. Horse Park. 770-860-4190. 26 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Just Jazz Quartet, Neptune Park, 7-9pm. 912-262-6934. 26-Sept. 2 – RICHMOND HILL – Savannah

Craft Brew Festival, Trade Center. 877-4savannah. 27 – CALHOUN – James Gregory, GEM Theater. 706-296-7103. 27 – SAVANNAH – Old Fort Jackson Auction. 912-232-3945. 31-Sept. 19 – WATKINSVILLE – Perspectives 2012: Georgia Pottery Invitational, OCAF. 706769-4565.

63rd Annual

Watermelon Days Festival June 1-23, 2012

“Watermelon Capital of the World”

Cordele, GA

Main Day of Festival June 23rd Arts & Crafts •Parade •Train Ride •Dance Car & Truck and Tractor Display •Entertainment Watermelon Slice Give-away •Fireworks •Pageant Watermelon Eating Contest •Seed Spitting Contest Gospel Music •Photo Contest •Taste of Melon 5K, 10K and Fun Run •Quilt Display •Puppet Show Fishing Rodeo •Horseshoe Tournament Chunking Contest •and much more!

229-273-1668 info@cordele-crisp-chamber.com List of events on web page:

www.cordelecrispga.com

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

PHOTO

GA DEPT.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Peach Blossom Trail Peaches are one of the most popular fruits in the United States and have always been symbolic of something good as indicated by the saying “pretty as a peach.” The State of Georgia is indeed fortunate to be so well known for such a wonderful commodity (although anyone who has ever been whipped by a Georgia peach twig may not think so.) Georgia was named the Peach State because it was the birthplace of the commercial peach industry. When traveling in Georgia from mid-May through August, the Peach Blossom Trail offers several roadside stands where visitors can find sweet Georgia peaches! During their travels down the trail, they can see thousands of acres of peach orchards. There are several farms that offer tours into the orchards, providing a close look at the peach trees and information on the history of how this fruit from China made its way to Georgia. The Peach Blossom Trail runs parallel to I-75. Get off the beaten path, and travel the Trail. But hurry! Peaches will be gone by the first of August, and these sweet fruits won’t be available again until next year. For more information, visit www.peachblossomtrail.com.

Peach County Puts the Peach in Georgia It has long been known that in Peach County, located almost in the Middle of Georgia, that there are four seasons – Fall, Winter, Spring, and Peach Season! Ask just about anyone who grew up in Peach County about their childhood memories and they will tell you, “I worked in peaches.” For well over a century, the peach packing center of Georgia has been known for the biggest, sweetest, and best of the summer fruit. In 2010, Peach County shipped close to 20 million pounds of peaches around the nation and around the world. From Lane Southern Orchards to Masse Lanes, home of the American Camellia Society, to Jolly Nut and Pearson Farms, south Peach County is a place to visit and enjoy. In north Peach County, visit the Cow and Calf Art Gallery, Georgia Bob’s Cain River Vineyards, and the Peach Shops at Byron. Peach County is located on the west side of I-75 at exits 149, 146, and 142. Peach County is a great place to visit, a wonderful place to live, and the best of places to call home! For more information, phone 478-825-3733 or visit www.peachchamber.com.

BusinessWeek’s Best Place to Raise a Family • S.E. Regional Little League Softball July 26-30/Baseball Aug. 3-10 • Georgia Special Olympics Aug.24-26 • Georgia Golden Olympics Sept.19-22 • Mossy Creek Barnyard Festival October 20-21 www.mossycreekfestival.com

Experience the Museum of Aviation

Vogel State Park Two Hours North of Atlanta

Hiking Trails •Lake Swimming Pedal Boats •Fishing •Picnicking Mini Golf •Trahlyta Falls Cottages & Campsites

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

www.museumofaviation.org

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

888-288-WRGA www.wrga.gov 24

For Blairsville-Union County Travel Information:

www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com 877-745-5789

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

The Real Squeal 2012: Lyons Barbeque & Music Festival Lyons Better Hometown is preparing for their third annual barbeque festival, The Real Squeal 2012. Held every October in Lyons, The Real Squeal is a Kansas City Barbeque Society sanctioned event with both professional and backyard barbeque competitions. The amateur contest will kick off the festival on Friday, October 12, in downtown Lyons with music, great barbeque, festival food, and The Squeal-In Cruise In. On Saturday, October 13, visit the Car Show in downtown Lyons and then go to Partin Park for the professional barbeque competition, music, kid’s activities, a professional chainsaw competition, primitive skills demonstrations, and a variety of artisans. Many of the professional barbeque teams will compete in the People’s Choice competition, in which patrons can purchase tickets to taste and judge pork shoulder entries. See www.therealsqueal.com for more details and additional events, or call 912-526-6445, or e-mail bhtlyons@nctv.com.

SAM Shortline Train in Cordele When the SAM Shortline Excursion Train pulls out of the Georgia Veterans State Park in Cordele, passengers ride in air-conditioned, vintage cars and stop at little-known museums and quaint towns for shopping and exploration. On each excursion the train crosses Lake Blackshear on a wooden trestle. In Americus passengers can visit Habitat for Humanity’s Global Village, shop in boutiques, or tour the historic Rylander Theater and Windsor Hotel. The next stop is Plains, the home of President Jimmy Carter. A bit further down the tracks is the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site, a country farm where the president spent his boyhood. Walking through houses and barns, visitors can hear recordings of the president talking about his upbringing. In Leslie the Rural Telephone Museum is filled with antique cars, clocks, switchboards, and telephones. During four days In October, children can take a 25-minute train ride pulled by storybook character Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt, play with Mega Bloks, and listen to storytellers. The SAM Shortline Excursion Train runs only a few days each month, and the schedule and layovers vary from day to day. For information and tickets, phone 877-427-2457 or visit www.SamShortline.com.

each P e t Th rgia! u P We In Geo

September 1-19 – WATKINSVILLE – Perspectives 2012: Georgia Pottery Invitational, OCAF. 706-7694565. 7-8 – FORT VALLEY – ComSouth Hambone Jam, Downtown. 478-825-5986. 8-Oct. 28 – ELLIJAY – Apple Pickin’ Jubilee, Hillcrest Orchards. 706-273-3838. 19-22 – WARNER ROBINS – Georgia Golden Olympics. 888-288-wrga.

October 12-13 – LYONS – The Real Squeal 2012/BBQ & Music Festival. 912-526-6445.

Lane Masse Lane Gardens Jolly Nut •Pearson Farms Cow and Calf Art Gallery Byron CVB •Georgia Bob’s Cain River Vineyard

I-75 Exits 142, 146, and 149 478-825-3733 www.peachchamber.com

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

4th of July Fitzgerald’s Independence Day Celebration Enjoy a fun-filled Independence Day Celebration on Wednesday, July 4, beginning at 4 pm at Paulk Park in Fitzgerald. There will be old-fashioned contests and free hotdogs and soft drinks for children and adults. There will be a watermelon eating contest and a greased pole contest for both children and adults with prize money for the winners; also a treasure hunt will be held for the children. Entertainment will begin at 6pm when a live band will entertain intermittently until dark; then a spectacular fireworks show will be held at dusk over the lake at Paulk Park. Take chairs and blankets, and pack your coolers for a picnic. Make a weekend of it and enjoy some of the other interesting points in Fitzgerald. The Blue & Gray Museum has more than 1200 artifacts and tells the story of Fitzgerald and its Civil War roots. Visit the Fire Engine Museum and walk through Evergreen Cemetery where Yanks and Rebs rest side by side. Maps for the drive-by historic home tour will be available at the park. Tour booklets are also available at www.fitzgeraldga.org. For more information, call 800-386-4642 or visit www.fitzgeraldga.org.

JUNE 29, July 1 – ROSWELL – UMC Patriotic Celebration Concerts, Fri. 7:30pm, Sun. 4pm. 770-594-0512. 30 – BLUE RIDGE – Parade, Downtown. Fireworks, Blue Ridge Lake Marina, Dusk. 800899-6867. 30 – MORROW – Freedom Fest & Fireworks, behind WalMart, 5-10pm. 770-961-4002. 30 – RICHMOND HILL – Richmond Hill Salutes Red, White, & Blue, Gregory Park, 4pm. 912-756-2676. 30 – THOMSON – July 4th Celebration &

WA R N

BIN E R RO

J ULY 2ND

6PM F REE EVENT 888-288-WRGA • www.wrga.gov

Fireworks, Downtown. 706-597-1000. 30-July 1 – BLAIRSVILLE – Mountain Fling Arts & Crafts Show, N. Ga. Tech. 706-896-0932. 30-July 1 – RUTLEDGE – Sunflower Farm Festival. 404-433-5646.

JULY 1 – ATHENS – Classic City American Music Festival, Melting Point. 706-254-6909. 1 – SAVANNAH – Savannah Winds Patriotic Concert, Armstrong Aud., 3pm. 912-344-2556. 2 – WARNER ROBINS – Independence Day Concert, McConnell-Talbert Stadium, 7pm. 888288-9742. 2-3 – ATLANTA – Peachtree Health & Fitness Expo, Ga. World Congress Ctr. 404-223-4000. 3 – BLUE RIDGE – Firecracker Special Train Ride, 7pm. 800-934-1898. 3 – KENNESAW – Salute to America, 6-11pm. 770-424-8274. 3 – MADISON – Independence Day Concert & Picnic, Cultural Center, 7pm. 877-233-0598. Fireworks, Heritage Park, Dusk. 706-342-1251. 3 – McCAYSVILLE – Celebration & Fireworks, Tater Hill. 800-899-6867. 3 – ROME – Cave Springs Fireworks. 800444-1834. 3 – SANDY SPRINGS – Concert by the Springs with Smokey’s Farmland Band, Heritage Green, 7-8:30pm. 404-851-9111. 3 – TYBEE ISLAND – Independence Day Fireworks. 800-868-2322. 3 – WOODBURY – Lake Meriwether July 3rd Celebration, 5:30pm. 800-337-1927. 4 – ALPHARETTA – Festival and Fireworks, Wills Park. 4-10pm. 678-297-6133.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

Celebrations July 4th Freedom Fest in Douglas The Douglas Exchange Club and City of Douglas are proud to announce that the 2012 Freedom Fest Celebration is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, July 4, at JC Adams Municipal Park. The gates will open at 5pm. Admission and parking will be free. Events will include live entertainment, food vendors, and fireworks after dark. “Freedom Fest is a popular traditional community celebration of our nation’s freedom,” says Georgia Henderson, Central Services Director. “We appreciate how the Douglas Exchange Club leads this celebration by providing fun activities, entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display for spectators. We welcome anyone to attend this all-American holiday event.” For more information about the 4th of July Freedom Fest in Douglas, call 912-381-2441, or visit www.cityofdouglas.com.

JULY 4 – ATLANTA – Atlanta Symphony All American Celebration, Verizon Wireless, 404-7335010. July 4th Celebration, Centennial Olympic Park, 404-223-4412. Lenox Square Legendary 4th of July, 404-233-6767. Peachtree Road Race. 404875-7275. 4 – BLAIRSVILLE – Fireworks Celebration, Meeks Park, 9:30pm. 706-745-5789. Independence Day at Vogel St. Park. 706-745-2628. 4 – BRUNSWICK – Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration, Waterfront Pk., 7pm. 912-265-4032. 4 – BUFORD – Fabulous Fourth of July, Mall of Georgia. 770-271-9458. 4 – CALHOUN – Fireworks Hike, Pine Mountain Recreation Area, 8:15pm. 770-387-5625. 4 – CAVE SPRINGS – Parade, Downtown, 9am. 800-444-1834. 4 – CLEVELAND – 4th of July at Babyland General. 706-865-2171, 4 – COLQUITT – Fabulous Fourth of July. 229-758-2400. 4 – CORDELE – Fireworks at Georgia Veterans State Park, 9:30pm. 229-276-2371. 4 – DAHLONEGA – Family Celebration & Firecracker 5K/10K, Square. 706-864-3513. 4 – DARIEN – Cannons Across the Marsh, Fort King George. 912-437-4770. 4 – DAWSONVILLE – Independence Day Celebration, Amicalola Falls St. Pk. 706-265-1969. 4 – DECATUR – Pied Piper Parade, Concert, Fireworks, Downtown, 5:30pm. 404-371-8386. 4 – DOUGLAS – Freedom Fest, J.C. Adams Municipal Park, 5pm. 912-383-0277. 4 – DUNWOODY – 4th of July Parade, Dunwoody Village, 9:30am. 678-244-9800. 4 – EAST POINT – Hometown Celebration, Commons Area. 404-270-7016. 4 – FITZGERALD – Independence Day Celebration, Paulk Park. 800-386-4642.

4 – GRIFFIN –Fourth of July Parade.770-2296400. 4 – HELEN – July 4th Mountain Style, Unicoi State Park. 800-573-9659. Fireworks at Dusk, Downtown. 706-878-2181. 4 – HIAWASSEE – Lake Chatuge Boat Parade, 11am. 706-896-4191. 4 – JASPER – 4th of July Celebration, Lee Newton Park. 706-692-1164. 4 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Fireworks, Great Dunes Golf Course, 9pm. 912-635-3636. 4 – JULIETTE – Ol’ Time Independence Day at Jarrell Plantation. 478-986-5172. 4 – LAVONIA – Old Fashioned Independence Day Celebration, Tugaloo St. Pk. 706-356-4362. 4 – LUMPKIN – Old Fashioned July 4th, Westville Village. 888-733-1850.

4TH OF JULY

CELEBRATION PAULK PARK IN FITZGERALD, GA JULY 4, Starting at 4 p.m. Free Hotdogs & Softdrinks For Children & Adults . . . Watermelon Eating Contest Greased Pole Contest • Prizes Treasure Hunt for Kids Starting at 6 p.m. Live Entertainment Starting at Dusk Fireworks

FITZGERALD 1-800-386-4642 • www.fitzgeraldga.org

June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Independence Day Concert in Warner Robins The annual Independence Day Concert will be held Monday, July 2, in Warner Robins at the McConnell-Talbert Stadium on North Davis Drive (I-75, exit #146). The program will include the Band of the Air Force Reserve Command performing with Country Music Superstar Josh Turner, a Hannah, S.C. native who has sold more than four million albums. Six years after his Grand Ole Opry debut, he was inducted into this prestigious organization, becoming one of the youngest artists to receive such an honor. Also performing will be Air Force vocalist SSGT Angie Johnson who served one active duty term in the U. S. Air Force and then joined the Air National Guard as a band vocalist and performed for troops in the Middle East. The event will be free. Take the family for a night of patriotic festivities as the Warner Robins community celebrates our nation’s birthday with music and spectacular fireworks. Visitors are invited to take blankets, chairs, and picnics. No glass containers or alcohol will be allowed. Gates will open at 6pm, and entertainment will begin at 7pm. For further information, call the Warner Robins Convention & Visitors’ Bureau at 888-288-WRGA or visit www.wrga.gov. Josh Turner

Firecracker Special on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway The Firecracker Special will depart the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Depot on Tuesday, July 3, at 7:30pm for a four hour round trip. There will be a two hour lay-over in McCaysville where the train riders can enjoy the great Copper Basin Fireworks display. They are encouraged to take lawn chairs, and sit outside the train to view the fireworks. For more information on the railway, see the article on page 16. For information and reservations, visit www.brscenic.com or call 877-413-8724 or 706-632-8724.

JULY 4 – MARIETTA – Freedom Parade, 10am; Fireworks, 9pm. 770-794-5601. 4 – MIDWAY – Independence Day Colonial Faire, Fort Morris. 912-884-5999.

Wednesday, July 4, 2012 JC ADAMS MUNICIPAL PARK

DOUGLAS Gates Open at 5pm! Free Admission & Parking • Food Vendors Live Entertainment • Fireworks After Dark!

912-381-2441 • 912-384-4555 www.cityofdouglas.com

4 – MORELAND – Independence Day Celebration. 770-254-2627. 4 – NEWNAN – Independence Day Celebration, Parade, Fireworks. 770-254-2627. 4 – OMAHA – July 4th Celebration on the Lake, Florence Marina St. Pk. 229-838-4706. 4 – PINE MOUNTAIN – Star-Spangled Beach Party, Callaway Gardens. 800-callaway. 4 – RICHMOND HILL – July 4th Celebration at Fort McAllister. 912-727-2339. 4 – SAVANNAH – 4th of July Fireworks Cruise, Riverboat Company, 8pm. 912-232-6404. 4 – ST. MARYS – Independence Day Festival & Fireworks. 912-882-4000. 4 – STONE MOUNTAIN PARK – Fantastic Fourth Celebration. 770-498-5690. 4 – YOUNG HARRIS – Star Spangles Spectacular, Brasstown Valley Resort, 6:30-10pm. 706-379-4606. 4-5 – ATLANTA – 4th of July, Centennial Olympic Park. 404-223-4412. 7-8 – SAVANNAH – Great American Weekend, River Street. 912-234-0295.

AUGUST 11-12 – SAVANNAH – Georgia’s First Fourth (first read in Savannah in August 1776), Wormsloe. 912-353-3023.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

P Theatre P Music P Dance P ACTOR’S EXPRESS Atlanta, 404-607-show, www.actors-express.com

Thru June 16

Xanadu

ACT 3 PRODUCTIONS

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

June 21-July 7

By Wheel & By Wing

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

Thru July 25

America’s Got Murder

ALPHARETTA CHRISTIAN THEATER Alpharetta, 678-371-3079, www.act1theater.com

July 13-Aug. 5

The Wind in the Willows

BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER

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

June 7-17 Aug. 2-19

Southern Voices I Ought To Be in Pictures

ATLANTA LYRIC THEATRE Marietta, 404-377-9948, www.atlantalyrictheatre.com

June 15-July 1 July 27-Aug. 12

Gypsy Legally Blonde the Musical

ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 404-733-4900, www.atlantasymphony.org

June 1-2 June 7, 9 July 4 July 14 July 21 Aug. 12

ASO All American Celebration July 4th at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

David Coucheron, Violinist John Adams Opera–Flowering Tree All American Celebration The Matrix Live Celebrate the Beatles II Divo

706,632-9223, www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com

June 9 June 30 July 5-22 July 28 Aug. 16-Sept. 2

Jonathan Byrd Gabriel Russo TBA/Viewers Choice Cowboy Envy Contest The Fox on the Fairway

BRUNSWICK ACTORS’ THEATRE 912-262-0628, www.artdowntowngallery209.com

June 2-3 July 14-Aug. 12

Belles Cowgirls

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

June 1-10 June 14-July 15 July 17-29 Aug. 2-Sept. 9

Cinderella Little Pirate Mermaid Dinosaur Show Five Aesop’s Fables

BACK LOT PLAYERS

DALTON LITTLE THEATRE

July 27-Aug. 5

June 14-23

Forsyth 478-994-0443, www.thebacklotplayers.tripod.org

Godspell (youth)

706-226-6618, www.daltonlittletheatre.com

Nunsense A-Men!

MERRITT PECAN CO. ✩ HWY. 520 ✩ WESTON, GA

HOURS:

7 A.M. TO 7 P.M.

1-800-762-9152 • www.merritt-pecan.com June / July / August 2012 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

P Theatre P Music P Dance P ELBERT THEATRE Elberton, 706-283-1049, www.elberttheatre.org

June 1-10 June 20-30 Aug. 17-26

Bad Year for Tomatoes Beauty & the Beast, Jr. Cotton Patch Gospel

ROME LITTLE THEATRE 706-295-7171, www.romelittletheatre.com

June 1-10 July 13-22

Sound of Music Broadway Spectacular IV

SAVANNAH THEATRE FORT GORDON DINNER THEATRE 706-793-8552, www.fortgordon.com

July 13-28

912-233-7764, www.savannahtheatre.com

June 7-Aug. 25

Savannah Live! Variety Show

Almost, Maine

SOUTHSIDE THEATRE GUILD GEORGIA SHAKESPEARE THEATRE Atlanta, 404-264-0020, www.gashakespeare.org

June 6-Aug. 5 June 21-Aug. 4 July 5-Aug. 3 July 14-Aug. 3

Illyria: a Twelfth Night Musical Much Ado About Nothing Importance of Being Earnest Emperor & the Nightingale

Fairburn, 770-969-0956, www.stgplays.com

Aug. 2-12

Forever Plaid

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

Thru June 10 July 13-Aug. 5

Lend Me a Tenor High Society

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

June 8-16 July 26-Aug. 5

Dearly Beloved Closer Walk With Patsy Cline

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

June 28-July 1

The Never-Ending Story

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

July 20-29

The Wizard of Oz

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

Thru July 1 July 5-29

As You Like It Twelfth Night

NEW DEPOT PLAYERS Conyers, 678-374-3224, www.thenewdepotplayers.com

July 12-29

Great American Trailer Park Musical

PUMPHOUSE PLAYERS

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

June 15-23 Aug. 16-25

Moon Over Buffalo Radio TBS

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

June 22-30

Seussical Jr., the Musical

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

July 13-28

Gypsy

THEATRE ON MAIN

(formerly Cobb Playhouse) Acworth, 770-565-3995, www.theatreonmain.org

July 12-29

Rent

THEATRICAL OUTFIT Atlanta, 678-528-1500, www.theatricaloutfit.org

June 7-10

C.S. Lewis on Stage

THOMASVILLE ON STAGE www.tosac.com

June 1-10

The Nerd

Due to our early deadlines, some events are not posted yet. Therefore, you might want to check websites for more information.

Enjoy the convenience of having the “Guide To Georgia” mailed directly to you 4 issues for $10 per year – Spring • Summer • Fall • Holiday Name ______________________________________________ Phone________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ City ______________________________________ State_______ Zip________________

Mail to: Guide To Georgia, 801 Nebula Road, Manchester, GA 31816 30

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / June / July / August 2012

30th Catfish

Festival

Kingsland,

Georgia

September 1-3 • Downtown Families receive the “Royal Treatment” in Kingsland this Labor Day weekend Saturday & Sunday •5K Run (Saturday, 7:00 a.m.) •75+ Arts, Crafts, Antiques & Collectibles Vendors (12 n.-6 p.m.) •Catfish Dinners (begins 12 n.) •Free Entertainment on Main Stage •Family Amusement Area (begins 12 n.) (featuring pony rides, kiddie train, inflatables, bungee jump, mining attraction)

Monday •Pancake Breakfast (7 a.m.) • Parade (10 a.m.) •Paks Karate Demonstration (11:30 a.m.) •Antique Car & Truck Show (11:30 a.m.) •75+ Arts, Crafts, Antiques & Collectibles Vendors (9 a.m.-6 p.m.) •Catfish Dinners •Free Entertainment on Main Stage (begins 11:15 p.m.)

•Family Amusement Area (begins 12 n.) Sponsored by the Kingsland Community Betterment Program

912-729-4382 www.kingslandcatfishfestival.com Sponsors