Guide to Georgia Spring 2015 by Johnny Craven

Guide GEORGIA To

Events Attractions Fairs & Festivals

Spring 2015

BLIND WILLIE MCTELL BLUES FESTIVAL In Thomson, Georgia on May 9

PLAID TO THE BONE Come join us for a wee bit of Scotland here in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains!

12th Annual

BLAIRSVILLE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES June 13-14 Meeks Park FRIDAY, JUNE 12 • Ceilidh On The Square FESTIVAL and GAMES Saturday & Sunday 9am-5pm • Athletic Games • Workshops • Kid Stuff • Scottish Dance • Live Music • Great Food • Seven Nations Celtic Band • Clans • Genealogy • Demos • Animals • and more! • Kilted Golf Classic, May 1st

www.BlairsvilleScottishFestival.org

GGEORGIA uide To

Volume 55 Spring

Number 1 March/April/May 2015

CONTENTS Metro Atlanta Events . . . . . . . . .4-7 Garden & Nature Events . . . . . . .8-9 Entertainment Venues . . . . . .10-12 Memorial Day Weekend Events . .13 Theatre Directory . . . . . . . . . .14-15 Georgia Events . . . . . . . . . . . .16-28 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29-30

ON THE COVER he Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival near Thomson pays homage to country blues music and specifically the talent of Georgia Music Hall of Famer and McDuffie County native, Blind Willie McTell. The festival will be held May 9. For more information, see the article on page 16. The art for the front cover was done by JJ Purvis from Eatonton, Georgia. Information on other festivals and events around the State are featured throughout the magazine.

“T

GUIDE

GEORGIA

Warner Robins Convention & Visitors Bureau

99 Armed Forces Blvd., N Warner Robins, GA 31093

801 Nebula Rd., Manchester, GA 31816 Phone 706-846-2620 E-mail guidetogeorgia@windstream.net See our Facebook page at “guidetoga”

478-922-5100 • 888-288-9742 90 Minutes South of Atlanta I-75 Exits 144 & 146

Patty Proctor . . . . . . . . . . .Publisher/Editor Debi Richardson . . . . . . . . .Graphics Editor 803-259-1990, debi@guidetogeorgia.com Hayley Yawn . . . . . . .Publisher’s Assistant Johnny Craven . . .Information Technologist Mike Norkus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Distribution

Visit the Museum of Aviation, Open Daily — Free Admission!

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.

www.facebook.com/ welcometowarnerrobins visit at http://www.warnerrobins visitorscenter.com/attractions.html

UPCOMING EVENTS: EVERY THURSDAY!! The International City Farmer’s Market Event takes place on the corner of Watson Blvd. and Maple St. – 1pm to Dusk Mar. 13-14 – 2015 Annual 200 Mile “Peaches to Beaches” Antiques & Yard Sale, from Barnesville to the Coast Apr. 4 – Claxton Road Race, Landing Pointe Plaza, Bonaire, GA Apr. 17 & 18 – 99 Bottles of Art on the Wall, the Painted Door Art Gallery & Localicious Event, Creating Awareness of Local Food, Local Art, and Local Music!

March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

METRO ATLANTA Snellville Days Festival The Snellville Days Festival will kick off with the parade on Saturday, May 2, beginning at 10am at Wisteria Village and ending at City Hall. The 42th Annual Snellville Days Festival will be held in T. W. Briscoe Park on Saturday, May 2, from 10am to 6pm and Sunday, May 3, from noon-5pm. There will be free admission, free parking, and free live entertainment. The festival will have something for everyone with over 200 vendors, great food, unique arts and crafts, and lots of giveaways. The kid’s field will be packed with rides and games. There will be continuous free live entertainment including Hero the Band on Saturday and Red Roots on Sunday. Performing both days will be Robinson’s Racing Pigs, K9’s in Flight, and local wood carver John Martin. For more information, visit www.snellvilledays.com or call 770-985-3535.

Ongoing Spring Events Mar. 28, Apr. 4-11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 2331 – Lasershow, Stone Mt. Pk. 770-498-5690. Ongoing – Anne Frank in the World Exhibit, Parkside Shopping Ctr., Sandy Springs. 770-206-1558. Thru Apr. 1 – The Civil War in Sandy Springs, Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. 404-851-9111. Mar. 5, Apr. 2, May 7 – First Thursday Art Walk, Dntn. Atlanta, 5-8pm. 404-658-1877. Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1 – First Friday Gallery Walks, Roswell Historic District. 770-594-9511. Mar. 6-May 29 – Martinis & IMAX, Fernbank, Fridays, 7-11pm. 404-929-6300. Mar. 19, Apr. 16, May 21 – Alive After Five and Alive at the Square, Roswell, 5-10pm. 770640-3253 Apr. 18-My 10 – Decorator’s Open House, 4701 Northside Drive, Atlanta. 404-733-4935. Apr. 18-June 7 – Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Sat. & Sun. 770-964-8575.

March 6-15 – Great American Cover-Up Quilt Show, Bulloch Hall, Roswell. 770-640-3253. 7-22 – Phoenix Flies–Citywide Celebration of Living Landmarks. 404-688-3353. 12-15 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. 12-23 – Atlanta Jewish Music Festival, various locations. 312-291-9024. 14 – 133rd St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Downtown, noon. 678-754-5834.

14 – Opening Day at Six Flags Over Georgia, Austell. 770-948-9290. 14 – Touch-A-Truck, Kennesaw Depot. 770422-9714. 14-15 – Michael O’Neal Singers/Rachmaninoff Vespers. Sat./Johns Creek UMC, 7:30pm; Sun./Roswell UMC, 3pm. 770-594-7974. 14-22 – College Park Restaurant Week. 404-888-9348. 20 – Friday Night Music Remix, High Museum of Art, 6-10pm. 404-733-high. 20-29 – Atlanta Film Festival, Midtown. 404-352-4425. 27-28 – Tossed Out Treasures, 6334 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs, 10am-6pm. 404-396-1054. 27-29 – Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival, Blackburn Park. 404-637-0516. 28 – Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt/Movie by Moonlight, Tolleson Pk., Smyrna. 678-631-5541. 29 – Frankie Avalon, Anderson Theatre, Marietta. 770-528-8490. 31 – Stone Mountain Village Bluegrass Festival & Artists Market. 770-822-5450.

April 4-11 – Spring Fun Break, Stone Mountain Park. 770-498-5690. 5 – Easter Sunrise Service, Stone Mountain Park, 7am. (Park opens at 4am.) 770-498-5690. 9-12 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000. 10-12 – Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Piedmont Park. 404-876-4024.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

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 also home to buses from MARTA’s historic fleet and predecessor systems, vintage cabs and firefighting equipment, and more. Caboose Days on April 11-12 will offer temporary caboose tattoos, a caboose hunt, food, a kids’ craft corner, caboose slide show, and rides on a restored antique handcar. The Duluth Historical Society will have a plant sale on April 18 from 10am-4pm. A Boy Scout Merit Badge Clinic will be April 25 (ph. 678-873-3770). The museum will have a 5K Fast Track fundraiser on May 16. Located at 3595 Buford Hwy. in Duluth, the Museum follows a seasonal schedule; days and hours of operation are available on the website. With ad on page 4 one free train ride with each paid admission. For more information, visit www.SoutheasternRailwayMuseum.org or phone 770-476-2013.

April 11-12 – Caboose Days, Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013. 11-12 – Repticon Atlanta Reptile/Exotic Animal Show, Gwinnett Fairgnds. 863-268-4273. 11-12 – Festival on Ponce, Parks on Ponce de Leon Avenue. 404-845-0793. 11-12 – Acworth Art Festival. 800-451-3480. 16 – Storytelling Festival, Heritage Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111, x4. 17-19 – Sweetwater 420 Festival, Centennial Olympic Park. 404-223-4412. 18-19 – Alpharetta Arts Street Fest, Milton Ave. & Main St. 678-297-2811. 18-19 – Sandy Springs Artsapalooza. 866511-7742. 18-19 – Big Shanty Festival, Downtown Kennesaw. 770-423-1330. 19 – Art on the Chattahoochee, Jones Bridge Park, Norcross. 678-277-0920. 24-26 – Inman Park Festival & Tour of Homes. 404-577-4212. 24-26 – Civil War Relics & Remembrance, Atlanta History Center. 404-814-4000. 25 – Taste of East Point, Downtown. 494270-7059. 25-26 – Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival, Village Green. 770-434-6600. 26 – Taste of Marietta, Square, 11am-7pm. 770-429-1115.

May 1-3 – Druid Hills Home & Garden Tour & Artist Market. 404-525-tour. 2 – CAC Food ‘n Fun Festival, North Springs H.S., Sandy Springs, 11am-2pm. 770-552-4889. 2 – Derby Day, Chastain Horse Park, 2pm. 404-252-4244.

2 – Fire in the Fourth Festival, Old 4th Ward, 3pm. 404-546-6757. 2 – Taste of East Cobb, Marietta. 678-3032622. 2-3 – Snellville Days Festival, Briscoe Park. 770-985-3535. 2-3 – May-Retta Daze Arts & Crafts Festival, Square. 770-794-5601.

The City of

Smyrna

Spring Jonquil Festival April 25 & 26

Saturday, 10-6 & Sunday, 12-5 • Arts & Crafts Festival with over 175 booths • Food • Book Sale • Live Entertainment • Children’s Area • Puppet Show and the

Jonquil City Jog April 25th

5K Run/Walk begins 8 a.m., Saturday

770-434-6600 www.SmyrnaCity.com

March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

METRO ATLANTA Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival The Spring Jonquil Festival will be held April 25-26 in downtown Smyrna on the Village Green next to Market Village and will feature over 175 handmade arts and crafts booths, festival foods, a book sale, and children’s activities. There will be live music and puppet shows as well as local entertainment on the stage in front of the library. A Crawfish Boil will be held in Market Village on Saturday and Sunday. There will be a variety of fine arts in the Featured Artists’ Market. Other artisans from all over the S.E. will be selling handmade crafts, clothing, furniture, jewelry, and more. A children’s area will feature inflatables, puppets, sand art, and other activities. There will be acoustic music throughout the event; and the featured performer will be J. Scott Thompson, one of the founding members of Peachtree Station. The Jonquil City Jog, a 5K Run/Walk, will be Saturday at 8am at City Hall. There will be a Tot Trot, Fun Run, and Fitness Walk. Registration is at 7am. Register at www.active.com. Festival hours will be Saturday 10-6 and Sunday noon-5. Admission will be free. Take I-75 to Exit 260; go west 3 miles; turn left onto Atlanta Road; festival will be one mile on right. For more information, call 770-434-6600 or visit www.SmyrnaCity.com.

May 3 – Fiesta Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park. 404-223-4412. 7 – Taste of Alpharetta, Downtown. 678297-2811. 7-10 – Scott Antique Market, Atlanta Expo Center. 740-569-2800 or 404-361-2000.

8 – Homeschool Day, Six Flags Over Georgia, 10am-5pm. 770-739-3440. 8-9 – Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival, Cauble Park, Lake Acworth. 770-917-1234. 8-10 – Sweet Auburn Springfest. 404-6814667. 9-10 – Buckhead Spring Arts & Crafts Festival. 404-873-1222. 9-10 – Dunwoody Arts Festival, Dunwoody Farmhouse. 678-244-9800. 9-10 – Barefoot in the Park, Duluth Festival Center. 678-677-0172. 9-10 – Colors Festival of Arts, Historic Roswell Square. 770-640-3253. 15 – Michael O’Neal Singers/Rock, Roll, & Remember, Roswell UMC, 8pm. 770-594-7974.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

METRO ATLANTA Scott Antique Market in Atlanta The Scott Antique Market at the Atlanta Expo Centers, the world’s largest monthly indoor antique show, features two buildings stocked full of pretty much every antique imaginable. With 366,000 square feet to explore, and over 3,500 booths, plus outdoor shopping and even a courtyard of merchandise, it’s almost impossible to leave without finding exactly what you’re looking for, according to the show’s organizers. All things antique wind up at the Scott Antique Market – antique furniture, vintage hardware, rare art, stunning glassware, heirloom silver, incredible jewelry, and so much more. The Scott Antique Market, described as “America’s favorite treasure hunt,” always takes place the second weekend of every month at the Atlanta Expo Centers which straddle I-285 at Exit 55. Parking is free; admission is only $5; and a complimentary shuttle goes between both buildings. Show hours are Thursdays 12:45-6pm, Fridays & Saturdays 9am-6pm, and Sundays 10am-4pm. Upcoming shows will be Mar. 12-15, Apr. 9-12, May 7-10, and June 11-14. For a complete list of show dates and more information on Scott Antique Markets, call 740-569-2800 or visit www.scottantiquemarkets.com. 28-31 – Atlanta Food and Wine Festival. 404-474-7330. 15-17 – Marietta Greek Festival, Holy Trans30 – Dave Matthews Band, Aaron’s Amphifiguration Greek Orthodox Church. 770-924-8080. theatre. 404-627-9704. 15-25 – Yaarab Shrine Circus & Carnival, 30 – Acworth Classic Car Cruise, DownMiller Park, Marietta. 770-528-8875. town. 770-917-1234. 16-17 – Shaky Boots Music Festival, Fifth Third Bank Stadium, Kennesaw. 470-578-7990. (See Memorial Day Weekend events 23-24 – Decatur Arts Festival, Square. 404on page 13.) 371-9583.

May

GREAT GRIFFIN

MAYFLING April 25 & 26

SATURDAY 10 A.M. - 6 P.M. SUNDAY 11 A.M. - 5 P.M.

GRIFFIN CITY PARK

42nd Annual

SNELLVILLE DAYS FESTIVAL Two days of fun for the whole family at T.W. Briscoe Park May 2, 10am to 6pm May 3, noon to 5pm

• Arts & Crafts • Food & Entertainment • Children’s Activities • Robotics hosted by Georgia Tech • 5k sponsored by Griffin Lions Club

FREE ADMISSION • FREE PARKING/SHUTTLE FREE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

770-228-8200

Continuous live entertainment featuring “Hero the Band” on Saturday & “Red Roots” on Sunday Robinson’s Racing Pigs • K9’s in Flight Local wood carver, John Martin performing both days

www.griffinchamber.com

Over 200 Vendors • Food • Large Kids Area Parade May 2, 10am at Wisteria Village

770-985-3535 Visit the Guide to Georgia Facebook page daily for new updates.

www.snellvilledays.com

March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Garden and Nature Events Native Species Blooming at Massee Lane Gardens Massee Lane Gardens is the jewel box of Georgia, where native plants bloom every spring alongside late season camellias. The environmental garden, Japanese garden, and children’s garden are especially vibrant in the spring. Free nature scavenger hunts are available to help children explore the garden’s many surprises. A paved walking trail and mowed paths lead guests around the pond to see all of nature’s springtime beauty. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 to 4:30 and Sunday from 1 to 4:30, the gardens are also open on Mondays in February. An International Garden of Excellence and the headquarters of the American Camellia Society, Massee Lane features a collection of gardens and two galleries showcasing the largest collection of Edward Marshall Boehm porcelains on public display in the United States. Guided tours and field trips are available for groups of ten or more. Visit www.americancamellias.org for directions, or call 877-422-6355 toll-free or 478-967-2358.

Sacred Heart Garden Festival in Augusta The Sacred Heart Garden Festival, scheduled for April 24-26, will be Augusta’s premier Garden Festival and was named as a Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event. The Festival will open on April 19 with a Southern High Tea in a private garden with celebrated lifestyle expert, James Farmer. On Thursday, April 23, patrons will join together for the evening premiere of the Festival featuring fine cuisine, musical entertainment, and the first glimpse of extraordinary exhibits created by garden professionals. The Festival will officially open on Friday, April 24, and will feature floral & landscape exhibits, a Speaker Series with Jeff Ross of the acclaimed Tennessee Blackberry Farm and other experts, and a Vendor Market of unique plants, garden accents, antiques, and home accessories. In addition, extraordinary private gardens will be open for patrons to explore intriguing varieties of foliage, innovative techniques, and mixtures of design. The 2015 Festival will be brimming with new experiences including live music, a beer tasting event, Children’s Day activities, a butterfly experience, artists painting in a tour garden, and more. For information, phone 706-826-4700 or visit www.sacredheartgardenfestival.com.

March 14 – Daffodil Show, Chatt. Nature Center. 14 – Food & Fire, State Botanical Garden, March – Late-season Camellias in Bloom 9am-3pm. at Massee Lane Gardens, Fort Valley. 14 – Reptile Day, Panola Mountain State Mar. 1-Apr. 30 – Azalea Season at Callaway Park, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Gardens. 14 – Reptiles on the Road, Hills & Dales Mar. 1-Apr. 30 – Atlanta Blooms! at Atlanta Estate, 10am. Botanical Garden. 14 – Invite Birds Into Your Yard & Garden, Mar. 1-May 31 – Organ Concerts, Callaway Callaway Gardens. 10am.-12n. Gardens, Sat. & Sun. 2-4pm. 15 – Birdsong Old Timey Plant Sale, Mar. 7, 21, Apr. 4 – Astronomy, Stephen Thomasville, 9am-1pm. 229-227-6964. Foster State Park, Fargo, 9pm. 912-637-5274. 15 – Back Country Geology Hike, Sweetwater Mar. 7-8, Apr. 4-5 – Orchid Market WeekCreek St. Pk., Lithia Spgs. 1pm. 770-732-5871. ends, Atlanta Botanical Garden. 21 – Pine Needle Basketry, Callaway Mar. 28, Apr. 18 – Geology Day, Providence Gardens, 10am-4pm. Canyon St. Pk., Lumpkin, 11am. 229-838-4706. 21 – Tea for Two, Hills & Dales Estate, 2-4pm. April – Late-season Camellias, Native 28 – Azalea Workshop, Callaway Gardens, Azaleas, and Pitcher Plans in Bloom at Massee 9:30am-12:30pm. Lane Gardens, Fort Valley. 28 – Exotic Birds & Reptiles, State Botanical May – Day Lilies, Hydrangeas, Hibiscus, Garden, 10-11:30am. Azaleas, and Native Wildflowers in Bloom at 28 – Women in the Shadow of Yonah, Massee Lane Gardens, Fort Valley. Smithgall Woods, 10am. 8 GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

Ongoing Events

Garden and Nature Events Tour of Hidden Gardens in Savannah Spring will put on its best show during the 40th Annual NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens which will be held in Savannah on April 1718. Discover the secrets of eight private gardens located under a majestic canopy of century old oak trees. The gardens are selected each year for excellence of design, historic interest, architectural features, and overall beauty. The gates will be opened from 10am to 4pm during the tour. Tickets are $40 with a group rate of $35. In addition to touring gardens, there will be an art on foot gallery tour on Friday night. During the garden tours, the Kennedy Pharmacy will feature chocolatier Adam Turoni and designer Nancy Miles. Massie Center will feature the Savannah Bee Company and the Ace Hardware and Garden Center. A Southern Tea will be held at the historic Green Meldrim House from 2-4pm. Participants will be able to enjoy the gardens, porches, and the parlors of the Gothic Revival house. For more information, visit www.gardenclubofsavannah.org or friend them on Facebook.

April 3, 10 – Plant Sale, Chattahoochee Nature Ctr. 4 – Basics of Edible Gardening, Atlanta Botanical Garden, 6:30pm. 4-5 – Easter Weekend Celebration, Callaway Gardens. 11 – Plant Sale, State Botanical Gdn., 8am-2pm. 11 – Master Gardeners’ Plant Sale, Newnan Fairgrounds, 8:30am-2pm. 770-254-2620. 11 – Basket Weaving, Callaway Gardens, 9am-1pm. 11-12 – Herb Sale, Atlanta Botanical Garden. 15 – Medicinal Salves, State Botanical Garden, 9-11am. 17-18 – NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens in Savannah. www.gardenclubofsavannah.org. 18 – Plant Sale, Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth. 770-476-2013. 18 – Practical Beekeeping, Atlanta Botanical Garden, 9:30am-12:30pm. 18 – Ivy Topiary, Hills & Dales Estate, 10am. 24 – Symphony on the Sand with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Callaway Gardens. 24-26 – Sacred Heart Garden Festival, Augusta. 706-826-4700. 24-26 – 94th Annual Flower Show, Thomasville Garden Center. 866-577-3600.

16 – Smyrna Garden Tour. 770-431-2863. 16 – Flower Arranging from the Garden, Hills & Dales Estate, 10am. 16 – Magnolia Garden Club Pond & Garden Tour, Cartersville. 800-733-2280.

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 GSU Botanical Gdn., Statesboro . . . .912-871-1149 Hills & Dales Estate, LaGrange . . . . .706-882-3242 Massee Lane, Fort Valley . . . . . . . . . .478-967-2358 Oakland Island, Savannah . . . . . . . . .912-898-3980 Oxbow Meadows, Columbus . . . . . . .706-687-4090 Smithgall Woods, Helen . . . . . . . . . . .706-878-3087 State Botanical Garden, Athens . . . .706-542-1244 Tybee Island Marine Center . . . . . . . .912-786-5917

May 1-2 – Sapelo Birding Adventure, Reynolds Mansion. 912-485-2299. 1-3 – Wool Fest & Farm Days, North Ga. Zoo, Helen. 706-348-7279. 2 – Make Your Own Garden Trough, Callaway Gardens, 10am-12:30pm. 5 – Vermicomposting Workshop, State Botanical Garden. 9 – Hanging Basket Workshop, Callaway Gardens, 9:30am-12:30pm. 9 – Picnic in the Garden, Hills & Dales Estate, 11am-2pm. 9 – Rockin’ on the River Gala, Chattahoochee Nature Center. March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Entertainment Venues in Georgia AUGUSTA ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX 706-722-3521,www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com

Mar. 6 Mar. 10 Mar. 13 Mar. 14 Mar. 21 Mar. 22 Mar. 27 Apr. 12 Apr. 22 Apr. 27 May 3

Ralphie May Elton John & His Band Harlem Globetrotters Wicked Divas (Pops) Mint Condition & Jagged Edge Stomp Alan Jackson Tyler Perry’s Madea on Run RAIN/Beatles Tribute Paramore/Friends Copeland Celtic Woman

CALLANWOLDE Atlanta, 404-872-5338, www.callanwolde.org Mar. 28 Eggstravaganza Mar. 31 Bees in 3D Workshop Apr. 23 Spring Homeschool Festival Apr. 24 Pottery Show May 14 Book Affair

CENTRE FOR PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS Newnan, 770-254-2787, www.thecentreonline.net Mar. 14 Womanless Beauty Pageant Mar. 15 Blind Boys of Alabama Apr. 19 Charlotte’s Web

CHASTAIN PARK AMPHITHEATRE Atlanta, 888-292-8495, www.chastaintickets.com Apr. 4 Alt-J Apr. 26 Santana May 3 Eric Clapton May 8 Hozier May 9 Ledisi May 10 Il Divo May 17 Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss, Union Station

CLASSIC CENTER Athens, 800-918-6393, www.classiccenter.com Mar. 7 Kids Expo Mar. 29 Athens Symphony Orchestra Apr. 18 Dancing with the Athens Stars Apr. 21 RAIN May 1-2 Atlanta Symphony Pops

COBB ENERGY CENTRE Atlanta, 770-916-2800, www.cobbenergycentre.com Mar. 9 The Sing-Off Live Tour Mar. 12 Peking Acrobats Mar. 13-16 I Love Lucy Live Mar. 23 Let the Church Say Amen Tour Incognito/Maysa Mar. 26 Mar. 28 Ron White Apr. 25 Rodney Carrington Apr. 30 Legend of Zelda May 1 Lewis Black Bill Cosby 77 May 2 May 3 Midtown Men Lisa Lampanelli May 30 May 31 Brit Floyd

COBB GALLERIA CENTRE Atlanta, 770-955-8000, www.cobbgalleria.com Mar. 8 Georgia Bridal Show Mar. 13-15 American Craft Council Mar. 14-15 Nat’l. Model Railroad Train Show Mar. 20-22 Spring Atlanta Home Show Apr. 18 Gluten & Allergen Free Expo Apr. 24-25 Peachtree Sports Festival

COLUMBUS CIVIC CENTER 706-494-8330, www.columbusciviccenter.org Apr. 3-12 Spring Fling Apr. 10 R. Kelly

FERST CENTER FOR THE ARTS Atlanta, 404-894-9600, www.ferstcenter.gatech.edu Mar. 7 Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy Mar. 8 Banff Mountain Film Festival Apr. 2 The Honeycutters Apr. 18 Earl Klugh Apr. 20 Charlotte’s Web

FOX THEATRE Atlanta, 404-881-2100, www.foxtheatre.org Thru Mar. 8 Wicked Mar. 12 K. Michelle Mar. 13 John Mellencamp Mar. 13-15 I Love Lucy Live Mar. 15 Adnan Sami Mar. 24 Neil deGrasse Tyson Mar. 27 Atlanta Blues Festival Mar. 28 Brian Regan Apr. 7-12 Blue Man Group Apr. 18 Jeff Foxworthy Apr. 27 Death Cab for Cutie May 1 Steve Winwood May 2 Celtic Woman May 5-10 Pippin

GEORGIA DOME Atlanta, 404-223-8200, www.gadome.com Mar. 21 Joel Osteen May 10 Nitro Circus Live

GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL HORSE PARK Conyers, 770-860-4190, www.georgiahorsepark.com Mar. 7-14 Tykes, Tots, Teens Consignment Sale Mar. 28-29 RK Gun & Knife Show

GEORGIA NATIONAL FAIRGROUNDS Perry, 478-988-8000, www.perryga.com Mar. 6-7 S. E. Model Aircraft Show Mar. 14-15 Bridal Extravaganza Mar. 17-22 Ga. State Good Sam RV Rally Mar. 27-29 Middle Ga. KOI Society Show & Sale Mar. 28-29 Spring Home & Garden Show Apr. 8-12 Peach Blossom Cluster Dog Show Apr. 17-18 Stryder Arms Antique Gun Auction

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

Entertainment Venues in Georgia GEORGIA WORLD CONGRESS CENTER

MILLER PARK

Atlanta, 404-223-4000, www.gwcc.com Starpower Competition Mar. 6-8 Mar. 6-8 Greater Atlanta RV Show Mar. 25-29 Atlanta Int’l. Auto Show Mar. 26-28 Georgia First Robotics Mar. 28-29 Revolution Talent Competition Apr. 24-26 Hall of Fame Dance Challenge Apr. 30-May 4 Ultimate Women’s Expo May 2-3 ALIVE! Expo

Marietta, 770-528-8875, www.cobbcountyga.gov Mar. 5-7 All 4 Kids Consignment Sale Apr. 24-25 Garden Fair & Plant Sale May 15-25 Yaarab Shrine Circus & Carnival May 30-31 Eastman Gun Show NORTH ATLANTA TRADE CENTER Norcross 770-279-9899, www.northatlantatradecenter.com Mar. 6-8 Woodworking Show Mar. 7 Atlanta Midget Wrestling Apr. 11-12 Eastman Gun Show Apr. 25 Atlanta Exotic Bird Fair May 8-10 Ga. Mineral Society Gem Show

GRAND OPERA HOUSE Macon, 478-301-5460, www.thegrandmacon.com Mar. 7 Macon Symphony Orchestra Mar. 11-12 I Love Lucy Live Mar. 22 Buddy Greene Mar. 28 The Lettermen Apr. 25 Macon Symphony Orchestra

PHILIPS ARENA

GWINNETT CENTER Duluth, 800-224-6422, www.gwinnettcenter.com Mar. 6-7 Frozen: A Tale of the Ice Queen Mar. 12-14 Original Sewing & Quilt Expo Mar. 15 Cinderella/Live Orchestra Mar. 21 SEC Gymnastics Championship Mar. 25-26 Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus Mar. 28 Journey Apr. 4 Ren & Shen Apr. 10 Wailing Waters Apr. 11 LFL: Atlanta Steam Apr. 23 The Who Hits 50! May 2 LFL: Atlanta Steam May 13-17 Disney on Ice/Worlds of Fantasy

IMPERIAL THEATRE Augusta, 706-722-8341, www.imperialtheatre.com Mar. 20 Heritage Blues Orchestra May 8-10 Shrek the Musical

MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER Madison, 706-342-4743, www.mmcc-arts.org Mar. 12 This Ain’t No Mouse Music Mar. 15 Philip Lee Williams Mar. 28 Ailey II Apr. 11 Storytelling Festival Apr. 13 Curious George Apr. 30-May 2 Madison in May Tour of Homes & Gardens May 8, 29 Madison Chamber Music Festival

Atlanta, 404-878-3000, www.philipsarena.com Mar. 7 Harlem Globetrotters Mar. 24 Ariana Grande Mar. 25 Fleetwood Mac May 13 Bitte Midler May 19 Izzy Azalea

PUNCHLINE COMEDY THEATRE Atlanta, 404-252-5233, www.punchline.com Mar. 3 Tom Segura Mar. 13-14 Colin Quinn Mar. 20-21 Billy Gardell/Mike & Molly Mar. 27-29 Demetri Martin Apr. 2-5 Alingon Mira

RIALTO CENTER Atlanta, 404-413-9tix, www.rialtocenter.org Mar. 14 Cirque Alfonse/Timber Mar. 28 Kodo-Taiko Drums of Japan Apr. 10-12 La Boheme Apr. 17 Michael Abene/Jazz Apr. 26 Joe Alterman/Houston Person/Hot Sardines

RIVERCENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS Columbus, 706-256-3612, www.rivercenter.org Mar. 17 One Night of Queen Mar. 21 Columbus Symphony Orchestra Mar. 26 Flashdance Mar. 28 Rickey Smiley Apr. 11 Celtic Woman Apr. 18 Gatsby Apr. 21 Curious George Apr. 25 Columbus Symphony Orchestra May 8 Complexions Contemporary Ballet

Join us for our 25th Annual

Tree Festival!! April 17 & 18

Featuring: Miss Tree Fest Pageant • Pet Parade Cake Bake Competition • Fun Run & 5K Car/Motorcycle/Antique Tractor Show Arts & Crafts • And Much More . . .

Performances by: Friday Night Street Dance: 912-367-7731 Tiger Creek Band & Hatton Still email: chamber@baxley.org On Stage: Dance Teams, Local Entertainment www.Baxley.org & More! Street Dance Admission: $2 March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 11 For information

Entertainment Venues in Georgia SPIVEY HALL

ROCK RANCH The Rock, 706-647-6374, www.therockranch.com Mar. 28 Easter Eggstravaganza Apr. 25 Strawberry Festival

ROSWELL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER 770-594-6232, www.roswellgov.com Mar. 9, Apr. 13 Joe Gransden Roswell Dance Theatre: Frozen Mar. 20-22 Dirty Bourbon River Show May 9

SAUTEE-NACOOCHEE CENTER 706-878-3300, www.snca.org Mar. 28, Apr. 25, May 30 Community Contra Dances Apr. 26 Shubert Alley in the Valley

Morrow, 678-466-4200, www.spiveyhall.org Mar. 4 Capitol City Opera Co. Mar. 7, May 1 Southern Crescent Chorale Mar. 8 Pianist Shai Wosner Mar. 14 Chris Potter Mar. 15 Finckel/Wu Han/Selzer Trio Mar. 21 Stephanie Blythe/Warren Jones Mar. 28 VIDA Guitar Quartet Mar. 29 Pianist Stephen Hough Apr. 12 Australian Chamber Orchestra Apr. 19 Dorothea Roschmann/Mitsuko Uchide Apr. 25 Ian Bostridge/Wenwen Du Apr. 26 Pianist Benjamin Grosvenor

THOMASVILLE CENTER FOR THE ARTS

SAVANNAH CIVIC CENTER 800-351-7469, www.savannahcivic.com Mar. 1 Willie Nelson & Family Mar. 5 Little Big Town Mar. 7 Cinderella Mar. 12 Harlem Globetrotters Mar. 13 Lewis Black Mar. 13 Savannah Comedy Festival Apr. 14 Bob Dylan Apr. 17 David Feherty Apr. 25 Chris Tucker

SCHWARTZ CENTER Atlanta, 404-727-5050, www.arts.emory.edu Mar. 14 Atlanta Master Chorale Mar. 17 Guitarist Luther Enloe Mar. 20 Daniel Roumain Apr. 2 Argentine Tango Music Concert Apr. 4 Isabel Leonard/Sharon Isbin Apr. 9 Jazz on the Green Apr. 11 Musical Auction

SOUTHERN GROUND AMPHITHEATER Fayetteville, 770-719-4173, www.southerngroundamp.com May 3 Gospel on Green Concert/Talent Showcase May 10 Southern Crescent Chorale May 31 Collective Soul

229-226-0588, www.thomasvillearts.org Mar. 5 Music of George Gershwin Apr. 14 Australian Chamber Orchestra

THOMASVILLE MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM 229-228-7977, www.thomasvillega.com Mar. 28 Another Night of Bluegrass May 8-9 Thomasville Music & Drama Troupe

UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Athens, 888-289-8497, www.uga.edu/pac Mar. 5 Celtic Family Celebration Mar. 22 Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Mar. 24 Pianist Andrew Tyson Mar. 29 Kodo/Taido drums Mar. 31 Pianist Vadym Kholodenko Apr. 7 Duo Piano/Christina & Michelle Naughton Apr. 25-26 Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center

VARIETY PLAYHOUSE Atlanta, 404-524-7354, www.variety-playhouse.com Mar. 21 Atlanta Jewish Music Festival Mar. 22 George Winston Mar. 28 Martin Sexton Apr. 14 California Guitar Trio/Montreal Guitar Trio May 2 Robert Cray Band

VERIZON WIRELESS AMPHITHEATRE

STRAND THEATRE Marietta, 770-293-0080, www.earlsmithstrand.org May 7 Roger “Hurricane” Wilson

APRIL 10 1pm -11pm &

APRIL 11 9am -5pm

DOUGLAS MUNICIPAL GENE CHAMBERS AIRPORT •NAPA/Brooks Auto Parts Car Show •Motorcycle Show/Poker Run •BBQ Competition •LIVE Blues Music Concerts •Food Vendors •General & Arts/Crafts Vendors •Warbirds Aviation Display • WWII Flight Training Museum Tours•Family Activities! Gate Fees: $5 per person/$3 military ID/12 & Under FREE

www.cityofdouglas.com/bbbfest 912-383-0277

Atlanta, 404-733-5010, www.vzwamp.com May 10 ZZ Top & Jeff Beck May 21 Darius Rucker/Brett Eldredge/ Bros. Osborne/100 Horses May 26 Rush

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

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Friday Evening, April 24

An evening in the park with dinner and gospel music Saturday, April 25

5K Run •Children’s Parade •Grand Parade •Arts & Crafts Car & Truck Show •Weiner Dog Race •Lawn Mower Races Berry Blast Softball Tournament •Cook-Off •Entertainment Farmers’ Market •Carnival Rides •Old Book Sale Free Admission & Parking 478-847-5301 • www.ga-strawberry.org

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND EVENTS Arts in the Park in Blue Ridge The 39th Annual Arts in the Park Festival in Blue Ridge on May 23-24 will feature over 175 booths of juried fine art and handmade crafts, artists’ demonstrations, and a variety of food. Some of the finest artists in the Southeast will be exhibiting paintings, photography, jewelry, glass, pottery, woodworking, sculpture, folk art, basketry, metal work, and more. Inside of The Art Center, home to the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, there will be several exhibits on display including the Southern Appalachian Artist’s Guild “Celebration of Artisans” Member Show and a photography exhibit by Artist-InResidence Terry Barnes. The festival will be held under the oaks in the beautiful City Park in historic Downtown Blue Ridge in the North Georgia Mountains. Festival hours will be Saturday and Sunday from 10am5pm. Admission will be $5 with children 12 and under admitted free for the entire weekend. The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, a non-profit arts council and host of the festival, boasts over 600+ artist members and is housed in the historic County Courthouse. Located only 90 minutes north of Atlanta, Blue Ridge offers shops, galleries, restaurants, craft breweries, a community theater, Scenic Railway, Drive-In Theater, and national forests with a variety of outdoor activities. For information, e-mail blueridgearts@gmail.com, visit www.blueridgearts.net, or phone 706632-2144. For area information, visit www.blueridgemountains.com or call 706-632-5680.

MAY 16 – BLAIRSVILLE – Armed Forces Day, Downtown, 11am. 706-745-5493. 22-24 – ATLANTA – Atlanta Jazz Festival. 404-546-7246. 22-24 – CARTERSVILLE – CounterPoint Music/ Arts Festival, Kingstown Down. 800-733-2280. 22-24 – RUTLEDGE – Night Paddles, Hard Labor Creek State Park. 706-557-3001. 22-25 – CLEVELAND – Memorial Day Weekend, North Georgia Zoo. 706-348-7279. 22-25 – PINE MOUNTAIN – Memorial Day Weekend, Callaway Gardens. 800-callaway. 23 – ATLANTA – Atlanta Caribbean Festival. 23 – BLAIRSVILLE – Memorial Day Parade, Downtown, 10am. 706-745-6341. 23 – FLOVILLA – Miniature Golf Tournament, Indian Springs State Park. 770-504-2277. 23 – HELEN – Bavarianfest, Festhalle, 6-11pm. 706-878-1908. 23 – HELEN – Concert, Unicoi State Park, 8pm. 706-878-2201. 23 – JULIETTE – Family Farm Day at Jarrell Plantation. 478-986-5172. 23 – RUTLEDGE – Country Fair. 706-474-2290. 23 – ST. MARYS – Hello Summer Festival, Waterfront Park. 912-882-4000. 23-24 – BLAIRSVILLE – Spring Arts & Crafts Festival, Downtown. 706-745-5493. 23-24 – BLUE RIDGE – 39th Annual Arts in the Park, Downtown City Park. 706-632-5680. 23-24 – DECATUR – Decatur Arts Festival, Square. 404-371-9583. 23-24 – HELEN – Visiting Artist Series, Unicoi State Park. 706-878-2201.

23-24 – TALLULAH FALLS – Holiday Gorge Floor Hike, 10:30-2:30. 706-754-7981. 23-25 – OMAHA – Memorial Day Weekend Celebration, Florence Marina St. Pk. 229-838-4706. 23-25 – RICHMOND HILL – Memorial Day at Fort McAllister. 912-727-2339. 23-25 – STONE MOUNTAIN – M.D. Weekend/ Salute the Troops, Stone Mt. Park. 770-498-5690. 23-24 – LUMPKIN – 1836 Creek War & Cultural Event, Westville Village. 888-733-1850. 25 – CALHOUN – Fairmount United Memorial Day Festival. 800-887-3811. 25 – DARIEN – Memorial Day Commemoration, Fort King George. 912-437-4770. 25 – MADISON – Memorial Day Ceremony, Town Park. 706-474-1199. 25 – MANCHESTER – Memorial Day Program, The Old Mill, 11am. 706-977-9004.

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

March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

P Theatre DIRECTORY directory P ACT 1 THEATER

BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER

Alpharetta, 770-663-8989, www.act1theater.com Mar. 6-29 Jerry Finnegan’s Sister

706,632-9223, www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com Mar. 27-28 Roxie Watson Concert Apr. 9-26 The Moving of Lilla Barton May 2 Gretchen Peters Concert May 14-31 Breakfast with Les & Bess

ACT 3 PRODUCTIONS Sandy Springs, 770-241-1905, www.act3productions.org Apr. 17-May 9 Curtains

ACTOR’S EXPRESS Atlanta, 404-607-show, www.actors-express.com Mar. 26-Apr. 27 Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet May 14-June 14 The Whale

AGATHA’S Atlanta, 404-584-2211, www.agathas.com Thru Apr. 15 How to Almost Get Away with 50 Shades of Murder!

ALLIANCE THEATRE Atlanta, 404-733-5000, www.alliancetheatre.org Thru Mar. 8 The C. A. Lyons Project Mar. 9-28 Roob & Noob Mar. 14-29 James & the Giant Peach Mar. 27-Apr. 19 Edward Foote Apr. 15-May 10 Blues for an Alabama Sky

CALHOUN LITTLE THEATRE 706-629-2599, www.harrisartscenter.com May 8-17 Spring Production

CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS Atlanta, 404-873-3391, www.puppet.org Thru Mar 8 Anne Frank: With & Without Thru Mar. 15 Rainforest Adventures Mar. 17-22 The Joshua Show Mar. 24-Apr. 4 Stellaluna Apr. 9-May 24 Paul Bunyan & Tall Tale Medicine Show May 20-22 D-Generation

DALTON LITTLE THEATRE 706-226-6618, www.daltonlittletheatre.com Apr. 24-May 9 Happily Ever After/Wedding Comedy

ELBERT THEATRE

706-548-3854, www.townandgownplayers.org Apr. 10-19 One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

Elberton, 706-283-1049, www.elberttheatre.org Thru Mar. 8 The Mousetrap FORT GORDON PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE 706-793-8552, www.fortgordon.com Mar. 6-21 Rumors Apr. 14-18 Jungle Book May 1-16 Shear Madness

ATLANTA BALLET

GAINESVILLE THEATRE ALLIANCE

404-873-5811, www.atlantaballet.com Mar. 20-22 Camino Real Apr. 17-19 Modern Choreographic Voices May 15-17 MAYhem

678-717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org Apr. 7-18 The Great Gatsby

ART STATION Stone Mountain, 770-469-1105, www.artstation.org Apr. 16-May 3 The Hound of the Baskervilles

ATHENS COMMUNITY THEATRE

ATLANTA LYRIC THEATRE

GEORGIA ENSEMBLE THEATRE Roswell, 770-641-1260, www.get.org Thru Mar. 15 Homers Apr. 9-26 My Fair Lady

Marietta, 404-377-9948, www.atlantalyrictheatre.com Mar. 21-29 Alexander & the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Apr. 10-26 Damn Yankees!

Clarkesville, 706-839-1315, www.habershamtheater.org Apr. 17-26 A Biddy Full Day

ATLANTA OPERA

HISTORIC HOLLY THEATER

HABERSHAM COMMUNITY THEATRE

404-881-8801, www.atlantaopera.org Mar. 3, 6, 8 Rigoletto Apr. 4, 7, 10, 12 Marriage of Figaro May 29-31 Three Decembers

Dahlonega, 706-864-3759, www.hollytheater.com Thru Mar. 8 The Nerd Mar. 20-28 My Son Pinocchio Jr. Apr. 17-May 3 Smoke on the Mountain

ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Brunswick, 912-262-6934, www.goldenislesarts.org Mar. 8 U. S. Navy Concert Band Mar. 28 Tribute to Hank Williams May 8-17 Ritz Radio Theatre: Wizard of Oz

HISTORIC RITZ THEATER

404-733-4900, www.atlantasymphony.org Mar. 5 Mahler’s Fifth Mar. 7 Jason Alexander Mar. 12, 14 Pianist Ingrid Fliter Mar. 19, 21 Guitarist Milos Karadaglic Mar. 26, 27 Cellist Lynn Harrell Mar. 28 Savannah Music Festival Apr. 9,11 Pianist Emanuel Ax Apr. 17, 18 Classic Soul Apr. 23, 25 Premiere/Theofanidis’s Creation Apr. 30, May 2 Jean-Yves Thibauet May 7, 9 Leila Josefowicz & John Adams May 14, 16 Roberto Abbado/Italian Night May 22, 23 Music of Mad Men Era May 28, 30 Spano/Bronfman

478-471-play, www.maconlittletheatre.org Mar. 20-29 Smokey Joe’s Café May 8-17 Importance of Being Earnest

AUGUSTA PLAYERS

MAIN STREET PLAYERS

706-826-4704, www.augustaplayers.org May 8-10 Shrek the Musical

AURORA THEATRE

Griffin, 770-229-9916, www.mainstreetplayers.org Apr. 9-19 The Civil War May 28-June 7 Crimes of the Heart

Lawrenceville, 678-226-6222, www.auroratheatre.com Mar. 26-Apr. 19 The Explorers Club May 7-31 Hands on a Hardbody BACK LOT PLAYERS Forsyth 478-994-0443, www.thebacklotplayers.org Mar. 20-29 Annie Get Your Gun May 15-24 Southern Hospitality

Athens, 706-613-3771, www.mortontheatre.com Mar. 5 Jack & the Beanstalk Mar. 6 Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour Mar. 21 Caribbean Apr. 16-19 Willy Wonka Apr. 18 Accidentals Concert May 18 Treasure Island

ISLAND PLAYERS St. Simons Island, 912-638-0338, theislandplayers.com Mar. 13-29 Proof May 15-31 Bye Bye Birdie

LEGACY THEATRE Tyrone, 770-306-3343, www.thelegacytheatre.org Apr. 17-May 10 Rocket Boys

MACON LITTLE THEATRE

MORTON THEATRE

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

P Theatre DIRECTORY directory P Tales from the Altamaha 2015 in Lyons Listen… can you hear it? The rustle of the wind in the trees, birds chirping in flight, and the waters of the Altamaha? It’s calling, and once again you will have the opportunity to be transported back to a time when Southern traditions were just being forged. This award-winning Georgia folk-like play is drawn from the writings of Colonel T. Ross Sharpe, a local attorney born and raised on the Altamaha River, who wrote a series of essays in the local newspaper during the 1950’s and 60’s about the settlers of the area around the river. Since 2005, Tales from the Altamaha has entertained audiences from all over the Southeast with a different selection of Colonel Ross’ stories interwoven with bluegrass music performed by the River Rat Review Band. Tales from the Altamaha takes the stage for its 11th annual production April 9-18, 2015. A project of Lyons Main Street, Tales from the Altamaha continues to be a cultural celebration steeped in the Southern traditions unique to rural South Georgia. Make plans now to embark on the ride of a lifetime as you experience the lives, loves, losses, scandals, and just plain ol’ gossip that are Tales from the Altamaha. Tickets range in price from $10-$20. Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more. Call 912-526-6445 or go to www.talesfromthealtamaha.com for more information. NEW DEPOT PLAYERS

SOUTHSIDE THEATRE GUILD

Conyers, 678-374-3224, www.thenewdepotplayers.com Thru Mar. 7 The Diviners Apr. 23-May 3 Sugar Bean Sisters

Fairburn, 770-969-0956, www.stgplays.com Apr. 30-May 17 Fences SPRINGER THEATRE Columbus 706-324-5714, www.springeroperahouse.org Thru Mar. 14 The Producers Mar. 13-22 The Borrowers Apr. 16-25 Why, Baby, Why Apr. 30-May 16 Born Yesterday

NEW AMERICAN

SHAKESPEARE THEATRE TAVERN

Atlanta, 404-874-5299, www.shakespearetavern.com Mar. 7-22 The Winter’s Tale Mar. 27-Apr. 4 Taming of the Shrew Apr. 10-26 Our Town May 1-24 Merchant of Venice May 29-June 14 Coriolanus

NEWNAN THEATER COMPANY 770-683-6282, www.newnantheatre.org Thru Mar. 8 Twelve Angry Men Mar. 19-29 Into the Woods Apr. 16-26 American Buffalo

NORTH GEORGIA COMMUNITY PLAYERS

ST. MARYS LITTLE THEATRE 912-729-1103, www.stmaryslittletheatre.com Mar. 13-15 Oliver Apr. 17-26 Crippin

SWAMP GRAVY Colquitt, 229-758-5450, www.swampgravy.com Mar. 4-26 Lost and Found

SYNCHRONICITY THEATRE

Dillard, 706-212-2500, www.ngcommunityplayers.com Mar. 6-15 Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes Apr. 17-26 Last Round-Up of the Guacamole Queens

Atlanta, 404-484-8636, www.synchrotheatre.com Thru Mar. 8 Stinky Kids/The Musical Mar. 21 Beyond Reasonable Doubt

PERRY PLAYERS

TALES FROM THE ALTAMAHA

478-987-5354, www.perryplayers.org Apr. 10-25 Room Service PUMPHOUSE PLAYERS Cartersville 770-387-2610, www.pumphouseplayers.com Apr. 24-May 2 Exit the Body

Lyons, 912-526-6445, www.talesfromthealtamaha.com Apr. 9-18 Tales from the Altamaha 2015

TATER PATCH PRODUCTIONS Jasper, 770-547-1096, www.taterpatchplayers.org Apr. 10-26 Sylvia

ROME LITTLE THEATRE

THEATRE ALBANY

706-295-7171, www.romelittletheatre.com May 29-June 7 Bleacher Bums

229-439-7193, www.theatrealbany.com Apr. 17-26 Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds

SAVANNAH THEATRE 912-233-7764, www.savannahtheatre.com Thru Nov. 21 Savannah Live! Thru Nov. 22 Jukebox!

SERENBE PLAYHOUSE Palmetto, 770-463-1110, www.serenbeplayhouse.com Mar. 26-Apr. 11 Man of La Mancha

SHERLOCK’S MYSTERY DINNER THEATRE Columbus, 706-604-5634, www.sherlocksdinnertheatre.com Thru Mar. 21 Monster Mash Murders

STAGE DOOR PLAYERS Dunwoody, 770-396-1726, www.stagedoorplayers.net Mar. 20-Apr. 12 Rounding Third May 15-June 7 Sylvia

THEATRE MACON 478-746-9485, www.theatremacon.com Thru Mar. 8 Lion, Witch, & Wardrobe Apr. 3-18 The Civil War May 22-30 Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike

THEATRICAL OUTFIT Atlanta, 678-528-1500, www.theatricaloutfit.org Apr. 9-26 Storefront Church

THOMASVILLE ON STAGE & COMPANY 229-226-0863, www.tosac.com Apr. 17-May 3 Anne of Green Gables

WARNER ROBINS LITTLE THEATRE 478-929-4579, www.wrlt.org Apr. 17-May 2 God of Carnage

March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Georgia is Spectacula Celebrating a Legend in McDuffie With the Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival The Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival on May 9 is held annually in Thomson-McDuffie, Ga., just outside of Augusta and a little over an hour’s drive from Atlanta and Athens. The festival will pay homage to the twangy tunes of country blues music and specifically, the talent of Georgia Music Hall of Famer and McDuffie County native, Blind Willie McTell. The festival has been going strong since 1993 and is still staged in the same grassy field it debuted in. Several folks who attended and even performers from that first year make the festival an annual pilgrimage; it’s a “can’t miss” experience. The event is more than just a blues festival. From the beginning, it was more a celebration of roots music. It is the kind of musical event Blind Willie himself would have really enjoyed. This year’s lineup will include Marcia Ball, John Hammond, Golden State-Lone Star Revue, Chris Smither, Mingo Fishtrap, and the Bruce Katz Band. While there, you can visit the gravesite of McTell on Happy Valley Road adjoining Jones Grove Baptist Church. Phone 706-597-1000 for tickets on sale in April. For more information, visit www.ExploreMcDuffieCounty.com.

Blairsville Scottis Festival & Highland Games The Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games on June 13-14 at Meeks Park will celebrate Scottish heritage by showcasing Scottish clans, athletic competitions, music, dance, foods, and merchandise. Festival hours will be 9am-5pm both days with an opening ceremony on Saturday at noon. The Kirkin’o’th Tartans will be held Sunday morning at 9am. Other events will include the Scottish Ceilidh (party) on Friday evening, June 12, from 6-9pm on the Square in historic downtown Blairsville and the Kilted Golf Classic on Friday, May 1. Visitors to the festival will enjoy music from the Pipe and Drum Bands, bagpipes all around the park, other musical groups, demonstrations of traditional Scottish athletic competitions, Falconry, Highland Cattle, Border Collies and sheep, Gordon Setters, axe throw and archery, Clann Nan Con historical reenactors, and children’s games. Scheduled performers will be the Seven Nations celtic rock band, Colin Grant-Adams, The Blarney Girls, Raven and Red, The Oatcakes, humorist Robert Valentine, Royal Scottish Country Dancers, and the Glencoe Highland Dancers. Pipe & Drum bands to appear are Atholl Highlanders, Alhambra Highlanders, Appalachian St. Andrews, North Atlanta, and John Mohr MacKintosh P&D. Admission will be $10/day or $15/two days with children 12 and under free. For information, call Chamber of Commerce at 706-745-5789, see us on Facebook and other social media, or visit www.BlairsvilleScottishFestival.org.

Monthly Events in Georgia Mar. 1-31 – DUBLIN – 30th Annual St. Patrick’s Festival of Dublin-Laurens County. 478-272-5546. Mar. 2-May 30 – BLAIRSVILLE – Misty Mountain RR Tours, Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat., 2pm. 706-745-9819. Mar. 5, Apr. 2, May 8 – AUGUSTA – First Thursday, Shops Along Kings Way, 5:20pm. 706-733-1788. Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1 – AUGUSTA – First Friday, Downtown, 5-9pm. 706-826-4702. Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1 – BRUNSWICK – First Friday, Downtown, 5-8pm. 912-265-4032. Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1 – CARTERSVILLE – First Friday, Downtown, 5-8pm. 770-607-3480. Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1 – SAVANNAH – First Friday/Folk Music, 1st Presbyterian, 7:30pm. 877-savannah. Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1 – SAVANNAH – First Friday Fireworks, River Street. 912-234-0295. Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1 – THOMASVILLE – First Friday, Downtown, 6-9pm. 229-227-7020. Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1 – VALDOSTA – First Friday, Downtown, 6:30-9:30pm. 229-259-3577.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

ar in the Springtime! The Vidalia Onion Festival Vidalia will celebrate the harvest of Georgia’s Official State Vegetable, the famous Vidalia Onion, April 23-26. This four-day festival has been featured on The Food Network and recognized as one of the Five Don’t-Miss Festivals across the U.S. by MSNBC. The festival officially will kick off on Thursday with a children’s parade and opening ceremonies that include a Movie Under the Stars. Other festival activities include the Friday night Street Dance with the 1st Generation Band, arts & crafts show, sidewalk sales, and famous onion-eating contest. The excitement will build at the Vidalia Regional Airport with a fantastic airshow Saturday and Sunday featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, an F4U-4 Corsair, Lucas Oil Air Show, a Yak 52, a Pitts and a P51 Mustang. There will also be a Kiwanis Onion Run, carnival, and the Saturday night concert featuring Lonestar. For those who wish to celebrate the Vidalia® Onion in all its culinary glory, don’t miss the Golden Onion professional chef competition, the Culinary Extravaganza, and the Vidalia Onion Recipe Contest and Public Tasting. This is only a taste! You’ll have to come to Vidalia to experience the “whole onion.” Visit www.vidaliaonionfestival.com or call 912-538-8687 for more information.

Merritt Pecan Company in Weston Merritt Pecan Company, located on Hwy. 520 in Weston, specializes in farm-fresh pecans and offers a large selection of items including pecans, pecan candies, brittle, divinity, jams, jellies, sauces, souvenirs, homemade pies and cakes, t-shirts, cookbooks, and gift baskets. The pecans are grown and harvested on their farms and processed at their plant. The company, in business since 1980, is halfway between Albany and Columbus. It has a Chevron Foodmart and offers convenience store items, BBQ sandwiches, hot wings, hot dogs, cheeseburger dogs, sausage biscuits, and other food items. The store also offers a picnic area with tables for customers, an inside ATM, clean restrooms, walking area for dogs, and bus and camper parking. Local produce items, ranging from peas to peaches, are available when in season. Football fans will find souvenir items for Georgia, Auburn, and other local teams ranging from books to back scratchers. Merritt Pecan Company, reminiscent of a general store, is decorated with memorabilia, has a display of John Deere toys inside, and an antique tractor barn with John Deere tractors and other antique tools. The store is open from 7am-7pm daily except for Christmas Day. Phone 800-762-9152 or visit www.merritt-pecan.com.

Monthly Events in Georgia Mar. 6-May 30 – CORDELE – SAM Shortline Excursion Train, various dates. Call for schedule. 877-ga-rails. Mar. 6-May 30 – WOODBINE – Opry, Fridays & Saturdays, 7-10pm. 912-576-3027. Mar. 7, 21, Apr. 4, 18, May 2, 16 – NEWNAN – Pickin’ on the Square, 11am. 770-253-8287. Mar. 7-May 30 – ELLIJAY – Live Music, Cartecay Vineyards, Saturdays, 1:30-5:30pm. 706-698-9463. Mar. 12, Apr. 9, May 14 – ELLIJAY – Cherry Log Pickin,’ Gilmer Senior Center. 706-635-3786. Mar. 13-May 31 – BLUE RIDGE – Scenic Railway (Easter Eggspress on Apr. 4). 877-413-8724. Mar. 14, Apr. 11, 18, 26, 30 – SAVANNAH – Philharmonic Orchestra. 912-525-5050. Mar. 14, Apr. 11, May 9 – ALBANY – Freedom Singers, Civil Rights Institute, 1pm. 229-432-1698. Mar. 14, Apr. 25, May 16 – CARTERSVILLE – Heritage Programs, Etowah Indian Mounds. 770-387-3747. Mar. 19-Apr. 4 – SAVANNAH – Music Festival, Downtown. 912-234-3378. Mar. 21, 22, 28, 29 – N. GEORGIA – Spring Wine Highway Weekend, various wineries. 706-878-9463. Mar. 21, 22. 28, 29, Apr. 18, May 16 – SAUTEE-NACOOCHEE – Concerts, S.N. Vineyards. 706-878-1056. Mar. 27, Apr. 24, May 29 – BLUE RIDGE – Classic Cars Cruise-In, Dairy Queen, 6pm. 706-838-4701. March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

The 33rd Fitzgerald Wild Chicken Festival The exotic and beautiful Burmese chickens with brilliant orange and yellow ruffs and gleaming black tail feathers are a familiar part of downtown Fitzgerald. The Burmese chickens were released in Ben Hill County in the 1960’s by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources as an additional game bird but somehow made their way to downtown Fitzgerald. There they have a love-hate relationship with residents, some of whom feed them while others chase them out of gardens with a broom! The chickens wake up folks, create minor traffic problems, and, some claim, even keep the bugs away. In celebration of these chickens, Fitzgerald will hold its annual Wild Chicken Festival on Friday & Saturday, March 20 & 21, in the historic downtown with arts & crafts, food, fun, and more. There will be a pancake breakfast at 6am, a 5K Wild Chicken Sprint at 8am, a chicken crowing contest at noon, a wing eating contest at 2pm, a group chicken dance at 4pm, and entertainment all day. A Sesquicentennial Celebration on May 7-8 will feature a blues concert, parade, tours, a 5k and 1 mile run, Chasing Jefferson Davis Marathon, Civil War encampments, a theatre production, and more. For more information, visit www.fitzgeraldga.org, e-mail fitztourism@mchsi.com, or phone 800-386-4642. May 9-June 13 – BLUE RIDGE – Celebration Monthly Events in Georgia of Artisans: SAAG Member Show. 706-632-2144. Mar. 28, Apr. 4, May 16 & 23 – ST. MARYS – May 29-July 31 – PINE MOUNTAIN – FSU Railroad Company Train Excursions. 912-729-1103. Flying High Circus, Callaway Gdns. 800-callaway. Mar. 28, May 23 – AUGUSTA – Choral Society, Sacred Heart Cultural Ctr., 7:30pm. 706-826-4713. March Mar. 28, May 30 – AUGUSTA – Soiree: Jazz & 6 – HELEN – Taste of the Town Masquerade Wine, Norman School for Arts, 5pm. 800-726-0243. Ball, Lodge at Unicoi, 6:30pm. 706-865-5356. Apr. 3-May 1 – BLUE RIDGE – Women 6-7 – AUGUSTA – Junior League Attic Sale, Painters of the Southeast Exhibit. 706-632-2144. Fairgrounds. 706-736-0033. Apr. 4, May 1 – RICHMOND HILL – Cars & 6-7 – TIFTON – Rhythm & Ribs BBQ Festival, Coffee, History Museum, 9-11am. 912-756-3697. Fulwood Park. 229-382-8700. Apr. 11, 18 – LYONS – Native American 6-8 – SAVANNAH – GnomCon, Downtown. Paintings by in-house artists Dee & Shelia Sturgis, 912-713-2473. Altamaha Heritage Ctr., 4-7pm. 912-245-0449. 7 – CARTERSVILLE – Dances with the Stars, Apr. 18-19, May 23-24 – ST. SIMONS Brown Conference Center. 770-607-0610. ComeISLAND – Antique Show, Postell Pk. 912-264-3254. dian Jon Reep, Grand Theatre, 7pm. 770-386-7343. May 7, 14, 28 – McCAYSVILLE – Pickin’ in 7 – CORNELIA – Gatsby Gala (Roaring 20’s Horseshoe Bend Park, 6pm. 706-632-7696. Fundraiser), 7-10pm. 706-778-8585. 7 – DAHLONEGA – Roaring 20th Gala, The venue, 6-10pm. 706-864-3513. 7 – DUBLIN – Balloon Fest and Dine in the Pines, Southern Pines Park. 478-272-5548. 7 – NEWNAN – Friends of Wadsworth Concert, Wadsworth Aud., 7:30pm. 770-254-2627. 7 – RICHMOND HILL – Coastal Bryan Tree Foundation Oyster Roast, Gregory Park, 6-9pm. 912-756-2676. 8 – JEKYLL ISLAND – U. S. Navy Band, Convention Center, 3pm. 912-262-6934. 8 – SAVANNAH – Celtic Cross Ceremony, Emmet Park, 1pm. 912-233-4804. 8 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Jewish Food/ Culture Festival, Morningstar Marina, 12-4pm. 912-265-7575. 8 – TOCCOA – Symphony Orchestra, Georgia Hwy. 520 Baptist Conference Center, 4pm. 706-297-7121. 8 – WARNER ROBINS – Atlanta Mandolin Weston Orchestra, 1st UMC, 3pm. 478-929-1111. 1-800-762-9152 12 – BRUNSWICK – Simply Sinatra/Steve Lippia, Glynn Academy Aud. 912-265-4032. www.merritt-pecan.com

QUALITY

Products. . .

Fresh From Our Orchards

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

Bikes, Blues, & BBQ Festival in Douglas Get ready, Southeast Georgia, for the 2nd Annual Bikes, Blues, & BBQ Festival which will be held in Douglas on Friday, April 10, from 1-11pm and on Saturday, April 11, from 9am-5pm at the Douglas Municipal Gene Chambers Airport on 441 South. This outdoor event will feature all types of vendors including arts and crafts, food, and more. Activities will include a BBQ Competition sanctioned by the Georgia BBQ Association; NAPA/Brooks Auto Car Show, Motorcycle Show, & Poker Run; Vintage Warbirds Show Planes Exhibit by the WWII Flight Training Museum; and quality entertainment by various bands. Headlining the entertainment will be Albert Castiglia on Friday night and The Victor Wainwright Band on Saturday. There will be chances to win great prizes. General gate admission will be $5 per person, $3 with military ID, and 12 & under free. Additional fees will apply to participate in the car show, poker run, and BBQ competition. Event sponsors are the City of Douglas, NAPA/Brooks Auto Parts, Moore Than Graphics, OnMedia, McRae Coca Cola, Southern Eagle Distributing LLC, Aniston Restaurant, Georgia BBQ Assn., Broadcast South LLC, Southwire, Premium Waters, and Douglas National Bank. For more information, call 912-383-0277 or visit www.CityofDouglas.com/bbbfest.

The Hiawassee River Railroad Ride the historic Hiwassee River Railroad scenic rail excursion through the unspoiled Cherokee National Forest, along the beautiful Hiwassee River, and through the secluded Hiwassee River Gorge. All trips feature the engineering marvel, the Great Hiwassee Loop. At the top you’ll pass over a bridge 62 feet above the tracks on which you’ve just traveled as the rails negotiate a spiraling formation. All trips begin with a short bus trip from the restored L&N Depot & Museum in Etowah, Tennessee. For those riders choosing a trip to Copperhill, the route continues beyond Farmer through Turtletown and Ducktown to the border towns of Copperhill, Tennessee and McCaysville, Georgia. The trains feature comfortable coach seating with large viewing windows for standard service. Dome seating allows passengers a panoramic view from high above the car. Observation lounge seating provides a unique view from the car at the rear of the train in one direction. While traveling in the other direction, the car will be directly behind the locomotive. Special rates are available for groups of 25 or more; charter trips can be arranged for groups of 80 or more. For information, phone 423-894-8028, x0 or visit www.tvrail.com.

Each Season Something

March 12-14 – CARTERSVILLE – S.E. Cowboy Gathering, Booth Museum. 770-387-1300. 12-15 – BRUNSWICK – Georgia Elvis Festival, Ritz Theatre (13-14), Mary Ross Park (12,15). 888-406-5885. 13 – SAVANNAH – Greening of Forsyth Park Fountain, Noon. 912-234-4804. 13-14 – CALHOUN – Dancing with the Stars, GEM Theatre. 706-625-3132. 13-14 – PERRY TO JEKYLL ISLAND – Peaches to Beaches Antiques & Yard Sale (200M). 478-988-8000. 13-14 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Art & Antiques Festival, Goodyear Cottage. 912-635-3920. 14 – ALBANY – Isley Bros. & Fantasia, Civic Center, 7pm. 229-430-5200.

New

Spring comes alive in the mountains of North Georgia. Enjoy waterfalls, hiking, and plenty of fun festivals to cure your spring fever. Call 877-745-5789 for a free vacation package!

www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com 877-745-5789

March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Blairsville the Place to Visit in the Spring Blairsville has your cure for Spring Fever. From the crystal clear 18-acre Lake Winfield Scott in Suches to the 4,180-acre Lake Nottely, Blairsville’s lakes beckon families. Each lake offers boating, swimming, fishing, picnicking, hiking, and camping. Lake Nottely has 106 miles of shoreline, two marinas, and public boat ramps. Vogel State Park, one of Georgia’s oldest and most popular state parks, has a 20-acre lake, a swimming beach, picnic shelters, children’s playground, and miles of hiking trails. Families can trek the 300-yard trail to Helton Creek Falls to see twin cascades set in a deep hardwood forest and head to nearby Brasstown Bald Mountain, Georgia’s highest elevation and one that offers a view of four states. Family-friendly attractions include the Misty Mountain Railroad, America’s largest 0-gauge train display; Mountain Life Museum; Sleepy Hollow with its fairytale dwellings; and a miniature collection of castles and palaces at the Old Courthouse Museum. Arts and Crafts festivals begin gearing up for the year with the kickoff Spring Arts & Crafts Festival on May 23-24. For more information about Blairsville-Union County, call 877-745-5789 or visit www. VisitBlairsvilleGa.com.

14 – BRASELTON – Milling Around Downtown. 706-684-0369. 14 – CLEVELAND – St. Patrick’s Celebration, Babyland General Hospital. 706-865-2171. 14 – DALLAS – Soldier’s Life, Pickett’s Mill Battlefield. 770-443-7850. 14 – ELLIJAY – St. PETrick’s Day Pet Parade, 1-5pm. 706-324-0243. 14 – FORT VALLEY – Peach Blossom Festival, Lane Southern Orchards, 10am-5pm. 800-27peach. 14 – GOLDEN ISLES – Great Georgia Yard Sale. 912-617-7578. 14 – ROME – Taste of Northwest Georgia, The Forum, 11am-6pm. 800-444-1834. 14 – SAVANNAH – Tara Feis Irish Celebration, Emmet Pk. 912-651-6417. St. Patrick’s Firefighters’ Ball, Savannah Station, 6-11pm. 877-savannah.

14 – TYBEE ISLAND – Irish Heritage Celebration Parade, 3pm. 912-786-5444. 14-17 – SAVANNAH – St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on River St. 877-savannah. Tara Feis Irish Celebration, Emmet Park. 912-651-6417. 15 – SAVANNAH – Irish Heritage Celebration Parade, 3pm. 877-savannah. 16 – SAVANNAH – Sgt. William Jasper Green Ceremony, Madison Sq. 912-233-4804. 17 – SAVANNAH – St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 10:15am. 877-savannah. 17 – YOUNG HARRIS – Evening of Irish Music, Glenn Auditorium. 706-379-5182. 19 – TOCCOA – The Celtic Tenors, Shaefer Center, 7pm. 706-297-7121. 20 – ALBANY – Dueling Pianos, Doublegate Country Club, 6:30pm. 866-750-0840. 20-21 – DALTON – Spring Open House, Downtown. 706-278-3332.

THE GARDEN CLUB OF SAVANNAH PRESENTS

56th Annual

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

Putnam County Dairy Festival

March

*NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens April 17 & 18, 2015

Tour: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Tickets: $40 or or $35 group rate (10 or more)

The walking tour includes eight private gardens, the Massie School gardens in Savannah’s Landmark Historic District (*North of Gwinnett Street), Art on Foot, and other special events. Southern Tea will be held at the elegant Historic Green Meldrim House from 2:00-4:00 p.m. www.gardenclubofsavannah.org

Sat.

June 6

2015

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

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

www.putnamcountydairyfestival.com

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

Baxley Tree Fest The 25th Annual Baxley Tree Fest will be held April 17-18 in Downtown Baxley. Pre-festival fun will begin with the Pet Parade Contest and a Cake and Cupcake baking competition. Festivities will begin Friday with the official Baxley Tree Fest T-Shirt Day. T-shirts can be purchased at the Chamber of Commerce in Baxley for $10 each. The Friday night street dance will feature two local bands, Hatton Still & the Tiger Creek Band. These two bands are sure to get attendees dancing in the streets. On Saturday, the day will kick off with the Tree Trek 1 mile fun run and 5k followed by various events including a turtle race, pedal cart race, arts and crafts, great food, entertainment, and the Tree Cruizen Car Show. For more information about the event, contact the Chamber of Commerce at 912-367-7731 or e-mail chamber@baxley.org, or visit www.Baxley.org.

Much to See and Do in Warner Robins From historical and cultural landmarks to outdoor recreation, there’s much to see and do in Warner Robins. The city is best known as the home of Robins Air Force Base, the Museum of Aviation (2nd largest in the country), and the Southeast Regional Little League Headquarters. For railroad enthusiasts, visit “depot row” where you’ll find the historic 1944 train depot which is now the E. L. Greenway Welcome Center, designated a National Historic Site. Mildred’s Country Store is full of local antiques offering a glimpse of “the way things used to be” from the days when Warner Robins was known as Wellston. The Southern Railroad caboose X556 from 1971 houses a railroad display. The Elberta Train Depot will soon be a heritage center highlighting the intertwined history of the local community, the railroad, and the growth of Wellston Army Depot to Robins Field and now to Robins Air Force Base. The moderate climate in Warner Robins will lure you to enjoy four championship golf courses, twelve parks, the Wellston Walking Trail, Little League Ball, soccer, championship football, March swimming, and Georgia Golden Olympics for 20-21 – FITZGERALD – Wild Chicken the kids over 50. For more information, phone Festival, Downtown. 800-386-4642. 478-922-5100 or 888-288-9742, or visit 20-21 – YOUNG HARRIS – Evening at USO/ www.warnerrobinsvisitorscenter.com. 40’s & 50’s Show, Y. H. College. 706-379-5182. 20-22 – DARIEN – Scottish Heritage Days, h Fort King George. 912-437-4770. 24ntual 20-29 – MACON – International Cherry An Blossom Festival. 478-330-7050. 21 – ALBANY – Ga. Wing Festival, Fairgrounds. 229-869-0364. Disney Jr. Live/Pirate & Princess Adventure, Civic Center. 229-430-5200. Albany Symphony Orchestra, Museum of Art, 4pm. 229-430-8933. 21 – BLUE RIDGE – Bowls of Hope (soup, pottery), Willow Creek Falls Pavilion, 12-4pm. 706-946-1001. 21 – DARIEN – St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 1pm. 912-266-0538. 21 – DUBLIN – Super Saturday for St. SATURDAY, 9AM-6 PM Patrick’s Festival. 478-383-0277. 21 – NEWNAN – Southside Steam Expo, The Wild Hog Capital of Georgia Fairgrounds. 770-254-2627. ABBEVILLE 21 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Christ Church, Admission $2 • LIONS PARK • I-75 Exit 101 Frederica 62nd Tour of Homes. 912-638-8683. 30 miles East of Cordele on Hwy. 280 21-22 – CONYERS – 34th Cherry Blossom www.hog festival.com Festival, Ga. Int’l. Horse Park. 770-602-2606.

May 9

March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Chilin’ on the Choo-Choo in St. Marys On the St. Marys Express, the impossible occurs on a surprisingly regular basis. An authentic steam locomotive puts you in the middle of the action at the shootout at the Ok Corral. The Tooth Fairy and Jack Frost rescue Peter Cottontail from bumbling kidnappers who are after his magic eggs. George Washington and Robert E. Lee come alive to remind us of what a real American hero looks like. Clearly, time travel is an everyday occurrence on the rails of St. Marys, Georgia. Whether taking a journey into yesteryear or tomorrow, a ride on the St. Marys Express is always filled with smiles and laughter and sometimes even tears when the heart strings are tugged by inspirational performances or patriotic songs. The St. Marys Express is all about history, adventure, and most of all fun—fun for all ages. Riding the rails into scenic woodlands and over picturesque marshlands is just a small slice of what the captivating train ride entails. The 2015 season is destined to be another record breaking year with new excursions added including the Pirates Express. Visit www.stmarysrailroad.com for the entire schedule or call 912-200-5235 for more information.

Blessing of the Fleet Festival in Darien The 47th annual Blessing of the Fleet Festival in historic Darien April 17-19 will kick off Friday at 5pm with arts, crafts, and food including sweet Georgia Shrimp. The Sensational Sounds of Motown will perform at the Waterfront Park stage at 7pm. Saturday events will include a 5K run/walk at 8am, a street parade with U.S. military and Scottish color guards at 10am, continuous live entertainment, Kids’ Zone, and classic car show. Evening performances will feature Courson Saunds, 3rd Class Citizens, and McKenzies. Art in the Park, a juried fine art show, will be held Saturday and Sunday in Vernon Square with entertainment, paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry, and textiles. There will be a fireworks display at 9pm. Sunday events will include a gospel singing at noon, the Shrimp Boat Marine Parade at 2pm with a blessing ceremony by representatives of the Darien-McIntosh Ministerial Assn., and an awards ceremony at 4pm. Admission on Friday and Saturday will be $5/13 and up and free/12 and under with paying adult. There will be no admission charge on Sunday. For information, phone 912-437-6684, visit www.blessingofthefleet.com, or e-mail info@BlessingoftheFleet.com.

WAR DAYS

RE-ENACTMENT and ENCAMPMENT May 2 & 3 • Old Clinton Arts & Crafts of the Era Suttler’s Row • Demonstrations • Food Self-Guided Tours Available • Guided Tours By Appointment Old Clinton is located 12 miles N.E. of Macon and 11/2 miles S.W. of Gray, just off Hwy. 129

478-986-6383 22

March 22 – ROME – Rome Symphony Orchestra, Berry College, 3pm. 706-291-7967. 26-28 – LUMPKIN – Sisters in Science/19th Century Women in Science, Westville Village. 888-733-1850. 26-29 – SAVANNAH – Tour of Homes and Gardens. 912-234-8054. 28 – ADEL – Little River Festival, Reed Bingham State Park. 229-896-3551. 28 – CARTERSVILLE – N. W. Georgia Women’s Expo, Brown Conference Center. 770-606-5763. 28 – CLEVELAND – Easter Eggstravaganza, Babyland General Hospital. Parade Downtown. 706-865-5356. 28 – HAZLEHURST – Ga. Great Steak Cook-Off & Young Chef Hamburger Cook-Off. 912-375-4543. 28 – HELEN – Fashion Show & Luncheon, Arts & Heritage Center, 12N. 706-878-3933. 28 – LAWRENCEVILLE – Spring Green Festival, Fairgrounds. 770-623-3600.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

Georgia Strawberry Festival in Reynolds “Going Green at 17” will be the theme of the 17th Annual Georgia Strawberry Festival which will be held April 24-25 in Reynolds, located approximately 22 miles west of I-75 at the intersection of GA 96 and GA 128. Admission and parking will be free. For information, phone 478-847-5301 or visit www.ga-strawberry.org. The fun will begin Friday evening in the park with a BBQ pork dinner, hot dogs, hamburgers, strawberry shortcake, children’s activities, and a performance in the park gazebo by the gospel groups, The Ward Family, Living Waters, Trinity Southern Gospel Trio, and Mandy Harrell. Saturday’s events will begin with a 5K run and a Berry Blast Softball Tournament at 8am, a Children’s Parade at 10am with all youth invited to participate, and the Grand Parade with antique and classic cars, trucks, bands, and more. There will be over 100 artists and craftsmen from around the S.E., a car and truck show, farmers’ market, strawberries for sale, food, entertainment by area talent all day including a special performance by the Up All Nite Band, carnival rides, old book sale by the Reynolds Woman’s Club, the Georgia Strawberry Cook-Off at the Flint Energies Headquarters Building at 1pm (with samples), the weiner dog race at 4pm, and the lawn mower races at 5pm. Admission and parking will be free; the event is handicap accessible.

March 28-29 – MACON – Mulbery Street Arts Festival. 478-744-9557.

April 3-4 – SAVANNAH – River Street Art Festival. 912-234-0295. 3-5 – CLEVELAND – Easter Festival at North Georgia Zoo. 706-348-7279. 4 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Easter Egg Roll, Historic District. 877-4jekyll. 4 – OMAHA – Festival by the Lake, Florence Marina. 229-838-4706. 6-10 – CLEVELAND – Springtime Festival at North Georgia Zoo. 706-348-7279. 7 – EVANS – Rock Fore! Dough Concert, Lady Antebellum Amphitheater, 4pm. 706-364-4653.

Georgia JugFest

8 – DOUGLAS – Munch & Music, Emma Ward Park, 12 noon. 912-383-7347. 9 – AUGUSTA – The Major Rager, Common, 7pm. 800-726-0243. 9 – TOCCOA – Fernando Varela, Shaefer Center, 7pm. 706-297-7121. 10 – BRUNSWICK – Fernando Varela, Brunswick High School. 912-638-4111. 10-11 – BLUE RIDGE – Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference. 706-632-2144. 10-11 – DOUGLAS – Bikes, Blues, & BBQ Festival, Municipal Airport. 912-383-0277. 11 – ALBANY – “Earth” Native American Flute, Municipal Auditorium. 229-430-8933. 11 – ATHENS – UGA International Street Festival, Downtown. 706-542-5867. 11 – HELEN – Springfest, Festhalle, 6-11pm. 706-878-1908.

41st Annual

Blueberry Festival July 5

May 16

ALMA, GEORGIA

for the love of mud. . .

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

Goldwasser Park

Knoxville/Roberta (Crawford County)

Folk Pottery • Arts & Crafts • Pottery Auction 5k & 1 mile Fun Run • Food • Entertainment Old Time Craft Demonstrations Hit & Miss Engines, Classic Car Show Large Quilt Exhibit • Lawn Mower Races

EARLY EVENTS MAY 14 & 15 Join us at Georgia JugFest Facebook &

gajugfestival.com • 478-836-3825 20 miles west of Macon

912-310-7399 www.georgiablueberryfestival.org

March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival The 34th Annual Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival presented by Superior Plumbing will be held at the Georgia International Horse Park (GIHP) on March 21-22 from 10am-5pm. This contemporary art festival will feature 300 art and craft booths; food booths; an interactive children’s area with over 30,000 square feet of rides, games, and activities; and multiple stages with entertainment by diverse cultures, local bands, and clogging groups. Experience Japanese Culture with the art of Japanese Swordsmanship and a variety of dance and karate demonstrations. Join the festival’s “Pink Out” by wearing pink and green; secret judges will award prizes to the best dressed individuals. There will be a scavenger hunt with a prize; and the first 100 shoppers to visit the festival’s merchandise booth each day will have the chance to win Blossom Bucks which can be used to shop at the exhibit booths. Festival admission will be free with a $5 parking fee per vehicle. For festival information or directions to the GIHP, located just off I-20, call 770-602-2606 or 1-800-CONYERS or visit www.conyerscherryblossomfest.com.

April 11 – JULIETTE – Story of Wool, Jarrell Plantation. 478-986-5172. 11 – MACON – Beards, Bourbon, & Bacon, Cannonball House, 7-9pm. 478-745-5982. 11 – PEACHTREE CORNERS – Art on the Chattahoochee, Jones Bridge Pk. 678-277-0920. 11 – WARM SPRINGS – Music & Dancing on Mountain, FDR State Pk., 7-9pm. 706-663-4858. 11-12 – PERRY – Dogwood Festival. 478988-8000. 11-12 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Glynn Art in the Park Festival, Postell Park. 912-638-8770. 11-12 – WARM SPRINGS – Spring Fling, Downtown. 800-337-1927. 11-19 – MACON – Fired Works: Regional Ceramics Exhibit & Sale. 478-743-6940. 12 – JEKYLL ISLAND – Doo Wop & Rock Concert, Convention Center. 912-635-6400. 12 – WARM SPRINGS – 70th Commemorative FDR Ceremony, Little White House, 1pm. 706-655-5870.

12 – WARNER ROBINS – Miguel Castro, Percussionist, First UMC, 3pm. 478-929-1111. 14-15 – PINE MOUNTAIN – American Frontier Days, FDR State Park. 706-663-4858. 14-18 – BLUE RIDGE – Kiwanis Spring Fair. 706-258-3247. 16 – NEWNAN – Taste of Newnan, Downtown, 5-8:30pm. 770-254-2627. 17 – MADISON – Country Road Cruisers Cruise-In, Downtown. 706-474-1575. 17 – WARNER ROBINS – 99 Bottles of Art on the Wall, Painted Door Art Gallery, 6-8pm. 478-225-7626. 17-18 – BAXLEY – Tree Fest, Downtown. 912-367-7731. 17-18 – CORNELIA – Apple Blossom BBQ Festival, City Park. 706-778-8585. 17-18 – SAVANNAH – NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens. www.gardenclubofsavanna.org. 17-19 – DAHLONEGA – Bear on the Square Mountain Festival. 706-864-9007. 17-19 – DARIEN – Blessing of the Fleet Festival. 912-437-6684.

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

Southland Jubilee in Greensboro Celebrate Greene County’s rich and varied cultural history at the 17th annual Southland Jubilee on Saturday, April 18, from 9am-5pm in downtown Greensboro. Admission will be free. Southland Jubilee is the “Everything Festival,” offering something for every age and is fun for the whole family. As the event continues to grow each year, it has developed the reputation as a quality heritage arts and family festival, drawing visitors from all across the state. At this year’s festival, you can expect to find live entertainment throughout the day, juried arts and crafts vendors, heritage crafters and demonstrations, antique tractors, living history interpreters, a children’s activity area, agricultural exhibits, a classic car show, and your favorite festival foods. Greensboro is located east of Atlanta off I-20 at the Lake Oconee exit #130. Lodging is available at local hotels, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds. For more information, visit www.southlandjubilee.com or call 706-453-7674.

Georgia Blueberry Festival in Alma The 41st Annual Georgia Blueberry Festival will be held July 5-6 in Alma at Goldwasser Park with Re-enactments and an Indian Campsite at the Recreational Center. The fun will begin Friday at noon with food, arts and crafts, music, a blueberry pie contest, a Senior Beauty Contest, a variety show, and live bands. Saturday will feature a Blueberry Pancake Breakfast starting at 6am, a 5-K Run/Walk at 8am, and a parade at 9:30am. Events during the day will include the Fort Stuart Military Band, live entertainment, a softball tournament, a tennis tournament, and a special Tot Spot for kids, plus a horse show at the Saddle Club. There will be lots of fresh blueberries and blueberry plants for sale at the 4-H Booth. For more information, call 912-310-7399 or visit www.georgiablueberryfestival.org.

April 18 – BLUE RIDGE – Taste of Blue Ridge, Willow Creek Falls, 5-8pm. 706-632-5224. 18 – BUFORD – Rockin’ BBQ Blast, The Bowl@Sugar Hill. 770-945-6716. 18 – CARTERSVILLE – Doug Stone Concert, Grand Theatre, 7pm. 770-386-7343. 18 – DALLAS – Cabin Life at Pickett’s Mill Battlefield. 770-443-7850. 18 – GREENSBORO – Southland Jubilee, Downtown. 706-453-7674. 18 – MINERAL BLUFF – Tri-State Model Railroaders Open House, Depot. 423-496-5006. 18 – PLAINS – Night with Pres./Mrs. Jimmy Carter @ Plains Presidential Auction, Community Center, 7pm. 229-824-5373. 18 – WARNER ROBINS – Localicious Event, Culinary Adventures Local Food, Art, Music, 124pm. 478-225-7626. 21 – HELEN – Preserving the Old Mountain Ways, Arts & Heritage Ctr., 6pm. 706-878-3933. 22-26 – BLAIRSVILLE – Kiwanis Fair, Airport Industrial Park. 706-781-6552. 23-25 – THOMASVILLE – 94th Annual Rose Show & Festival, various locations. 229-227-7020. 23-26 – VIDALIA – Vidalia Onion Festival and Airshow. 912-538-8687. 24 – AUGUSTA – Horszowski Piano Trio, Maxwell Theatre, 7:30pm. 706-790-9274. March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Mayfling Arts & Crafts Festival in Griffin The Great Griffin Mayfling will celebrate its 32nd year of arts and crafts, food by local vendors, entertainment, children’s activities, and more in City Park on April 25-26. Applications are available at the Griffin-Spalding Chamber of Commerce at 770-228-8200 or www.griffinchamber.com. Griffin’s City Park will come alive with activity on Saturday, April 25, from 10am-6pm. The Griffin Lions Club will host a 5K Strides for Sight Run; and a new feature, a Youth Vocal Competition, will be held. On Sunday, a Fun Dog show will take place a 2pm. Georgia Tech will return, offering robotic activities for children on both days.

April 24 – BRUNSWICK – International Festival, College of Coastal Ga., 2-7pm. 912-269-5942. 24 – CALHOUN – Baxter-Dean Runway Show, GEM Theatre. 706-625-3132. 24 – ROME – Firefly Fling (food, jazz, art) Benefit. 800-444-1834. 24-25 – BLAIRSVILLE – Mountain Home Show, North Ga. Technical College. 706-439-6300. 24-25 – CALHOUN – BBQ, Boogie, & Blues, Downtown. 706-625-3200. 24-25 – CARTERSVILLE – N. Ga. Flint Knappers & Primitive Arts Festival. 770-304-8760. 24-25 – LUMPKIN – Pay Days/Kids Work 19th Century Jobs, Westville Village. 888-733-1850. 24-25 – REYNOLDS – Georgia Strawberry Festival, Downtown. 478-847-5301. 24-26 – AUGUSTA – Sacred Heart Garden Festival. 706-826-4700. 24-26 – BRASELTON – Art & Holiday Festival, Braselton Park. 706-824-7204. 25 – BUFORD – Classic Rock & Car Show, The Bowl@Sugar Hill. 770-945-6716. 25 – GRAYSON – Grayson Day Festival. 770963-8017.

25 – MADISON – Madison Fest, Town Park. 706-342-1251. 25 – NEWNAN – Kiwanis Praise Band Festival, Fairgrounds, 12-6pm. 770-254-2627. 25 – NICHOLLS – Spring Fling, General Coffee State Park, 10am-2pm. 912-384-7082. 25 – RICHMOND HILL – Woodland Spring Fest, Fort McAllister. 912-727-2339. 25-26 – BLUE RIDGE – Spring Festival Arts & Crafts Sale. 423-761-9985. 25-26 – GRIFFIN – Mayfling Arts & Crafts Festival, City Park. 770-228-8200. 25-27 – CLAYTON – Celebrate Clayton, Main Street. 706-782-4812. 26 – KINGSTON – 151st Confederate Memorial Day Service, UMC, 2:30pm. 770-336-5234. 26 – SAVANNAH – Coastal Jazz/Duke Ellington Birthday Concert, Fine Arts Aud., 5-7pm. 877-savannah. 28 – TOCCOA – Della’s Diner, Shaefer Center, 7pm. 706-297-7121.

May 1 – CLAYTON – First Friday Fest, Rock House. 706-782-4812. 1 – TYBEE ISLAND – Tour of Homes; SCAD Sand arts Festival. 912-786-5444.

Fitzgerald Wild Chicken Festival Friday & Saturday

March 20 & 21 HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

The Fun Starts Friday Night . . . FREE Street Dance 7-10pm •White Swan Parking Lot

Saturday Events include, but not limited to . . . Family Fun •Arts & Crafts •Chicken Shows at the Coop Clifford The Big Red Dog & Others Great Food •Pancake Breakfast (6 a.m.) 5K Sprint •1 mi. Fun Run •Children’s Activities Pine Wood Derby Race •Chicken Crowing Contest Souvenirs •Arts & Crafts

Entertainment Throughout the Day 800-386-4642 • www.fitzgeraldga.org

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

Georgia JugFest in Knoxville/Roberta Knoxville and Roberta, located about 20 miles west of Macon, will celebrate the Georgia JugFest and Old Knoxville Days Festival on May 16. During the 1800’s and early 1900’s, making decorative and functional pottery was a large part of the area’s economy. Now it is celebrated for its historical value and as collectible folk art. The Knoxville community woodburning kiln will be fired up early in the week in preparation for the pottery sale on Saturday at 9am. Early events will begin with a pottery show (opening May 14), quilt exhibit, Hall of Fame induction ceremony, preview party, and a Lunch & Learn. The main festival day will be Saturday, May 16, and will feature a 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run, the sale of pottery fired from the community kiln, pottery vendors, demonstrations of old time crafts, pottery show, quilt show, classic car show, and antique tractor display. There will be entertainment with the afternoon show featuring the Chris Hick’s Band (of the Marshall Tucker band). Festivities will end with the lawn mower races at 5pm. Parking and most events will be free. For details, call 478-836-3825 or visit www.gajugfestival.com and the Georgia JugFest Facebook page. This festival is sponsored by the Roberta/Crawford County Chamber of Commerce and the Crawford County Historical Society.

May 1-3 – SAVANNAH – Riverfront Seafood Festival. 877-savannah. 2 – LYONS – 24th Annual Southeast Georgia Soapbox Derby, N. Victory Dr. 912-245-5685. 2 – CONYERS – Taste of Conyers, Olde Town, 11am-4pm. 770-602-2606. 2 – THOMASVILLE – Kentucky Derby Party, Pebble Hill, 5:30-11pm. 229-226-6016. 2 – WARNER ROBINS – Earthfest, W. R. Nature Ctr. & Botanical Gardens. 478-929-7259. 2-3 – ATHENS – Indie South Fairs Springtacular, Downtown. 770-713-3815. 2-3 – CARTERSVILLE – May Market at Rose Lawn Museum. 770-387-5162. 2-3 – EAST ELLIJAY – Georgia Apple Blossom Festival. 706-635-7400. 2-3 – GAY – Cotton Pickin’ Fair. 706-5386814, Shady Days in Gay. 706-977-8548. 2-3 – OLD CLINTON – War Days Re-enactment & Encampment. 478-986-6383. 5 – YOUNG HARRIS – Pops on Plaza, Young Harris College, 7pm. 706-379-5182. 7-8 – FITZGERALD – Sesquicentennial Celebration. 800-386-4642. 8-10 – JASPER – Bluegrass Charity Festival. 706-692-1164. 9 – ABBEVILLE – Ocmulgee Wild Hog Festival, Lions Park. 229-467-2144.

9 – BLUE RIDGE – Georgia Mountain Classic Car Show, City Park. 706-838-4701. 9 – DALTON – Bill Gregory Healthcare Classic; Wine Festival. 706-278-3332. 9 – THOMSON – Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival, Stagecoach Road. 706-597-1000. 9-10 – BRUNSWICK – Blessing of the Fleet, Sidney Lanier Park. 912-265-4032. 9-10 – ST. SIMONS ISLAND – Arts & Crafts Show, Postell Park. 912-230-1042. 11-15 – VALDOSTA – Brown Bag Lunch Concerts, Courthouse Lawn, 11:30am. 229-242-2600. 15 – TYBEE ISLAND – Beach Bum Parade. 912-786-5444. 15-17 – HELEN – Southern Worthersee VW/ Audi Car Show, Helendorf River Inn. 706-878-2271. 16 – BLUE RIDGE – Blue Ridge Mountains Wine & Jazz Festival. 678-570-5342. 16 – CRAWFORDVILLE – 150th Anniv./ Arrest of A. H. Stephens, Stephens State Park. 706-456-2602. 16 – HIAWASSEE – Ga. Mountain Big Green Eggfestival, Ga. Mt. Fairgrounds. 706-896-4191. 16 – KNOXVILLE/ROBERTA – Georgia JugFest. 478-836-3825. 16 – JASPER – Mountain Laurel Festival, Downtown. 706-754-4216. 16-17 – CALHOUN – Battle of Resaca Reenactment. 800-887-3811.

RIDE THE WILD WEST STEAM EXPRESS Train Rides in St. Marys, GA Mar. 28, Apr. 4, May 16 & 23 FOR A 2015 SCHEDULE AND TO GET TICKETS, VISIT

www.stmarysrailroad.com Or call 912-200-5235 March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA

Dairy Festival in Eatonton The 56th Annual Putnam County Dairy Festival will be held in Eatonton on Saturday, June 6. Activities will begin at 8am with the 37th annual 10K Torture Trail Road Race & One Mile Fun Run (706-485-9941). The parade will begin at 10am and will feature the Queen of the Dairy Festival and her court, Junior Miss Putnam County and her court, floats, antique tractors, antique cars, Shriners, dignitaries, clowns, and horses. A program at 11am will recognize the Putnam County Dairy Farm Family of the year. An antique tractor exhibition will begin at 12:30pm. The festival will pay tribute to the county’s dairy industry and will be held on the streets surrounding the courthouse. An Arts and Crafts Fair will be open from 9am4pm and will feature arts, crafts, food, and children’s activities. Georgia Butts BBQ will sell BBQ from 11am-1:30pm. Free ice cream and milk along with an educational dairy exhibit will be provided on the Square. Entertainment featuring local artists will be held there from 12:30-4pm. For booth space, contact Cindy Willis at 706-473-0987 or cgwillis0810@yahoo.com. For more festival information or to download applications to participate, visit www.putnamcounty dairyfestival.com or phone 706-473-0763.

May

47th

Annual FridaySunday

HISTORIC DARIEN April 17-19

17 – CLAYTON – Fur Ball (dance/dinner/auction) Benefitting Rabun Paws for Life. 706-782-4812. 19 – HELEN – Pottery History/Demos/Local Potters, Arts & Heritage Ctr., 6pm. 706-878-3933. 21 – ELLIJAY – Taste of Ellijay, Downtown, 5-7:30pm. 706-635-7400. 23-24 – BLAIRSVILLE – Spring Arts & Crafts Festival. 877-745-5789. 23-24 – BLUE RIDGE – Arts in the Park Festival, City Park. 706-632-2144. 29 – CORNELIA – Gina Gailey Concert. 706778-8585.

June

Marine Parade • Classic Car Show Art In The Park • Street Parade Arts & Crafts • Music • Food View Event Schedule & Times at:

www.blessingofthefleet.com

6 – EATONTON – Putnam County Dairy Festival, Courthouse Square. 706-473-0763. 13-14 – BLAIRSVILLE – 12th Annual Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Meeks Park. 706-745-5789.

July 5-6 – ALMA – Georgia Blueberry Festival, Goldwasser Park. 912-310-7399.

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 28

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015

Sporting Events Ocmulgee Wild Hog Festival in Abbeville See real wild hogs taken from the Ocmulgee Swamp during the 24th Annual Ocmulgee Wild Hog Festival which will be held Saturday, May 9, in Abbeville on Lions Park Hwy. 280. Among the events will be an exciting Hog Baying contest and a children’s pig chase. Browse through over 100 arts and crafts booths and over 25 food booths. Enjoy all kinds of good music and other entertainment including line dancing, clogging, bands, and singing. There will be kiddie rides, ponies, an antique tractor show, and more. To participate in the Poker Run, contact David Cummings at 478-262-5536. Gates will open at 9am. Admission will be $2 for all ages. Parking will be free. Abbeville, the Wild Hog Capital of Georgia, is located 30 miles east of Cordele at the intersection of US 280 and 129. From I-75 take exit 101. For more information, phone 229-467-2144 or visit www.hogfestival.com.

BIKING

RACING

Apr. 4. . . . . . . . . Italian Road Bike Festival Ride Downtown Ellijay, 706-635-2453 Apr. 17-19 . . . . . . . . . BRAG Tune-Up Bike Ride 770-498-5153 Apr. 18 . . . . . . . . . Vineyards to Vista Bike Ride Helen, 706-878-1619 Apr. 24-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Twilight Criterium Downtown, Athens, 800-653-0603

Braselton, 800-849-race, www.roadatlanta.com Mar. 13-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NASA Mar. 20-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SCCA National Apr. 24-26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Mitty May 8-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Drift Atlanta Atlanta Motor Speedway . . . . . . . . . . . Hampton

MISCELLANEOUS Apr. 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Claxton Road Race (5K, 10.5K), Bonaire, 478-922-6556 Apr. 25 . . . . . . Benderdinker Paddlin’ & Pickin’ Festival, Riverview Park, Evans, 800-726-0243 May 16. . . Jekyll Island Turtle Crawl Triathlon/ Nestfest, Great Dunes Park, 877-jekyll

EQUESTRIAN/LIVESTOCK

ROAD ATLANTA

770-946-4211, atlantamotorspeedway.com

Atlanta Dragway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Commerce

770-682-3782, www.atlantadragway.com

Oglethorpe Speedway Park . . . . . . . . . . . Pooler

912-964-8200, www.ospracing.net

Silver Dollar Raceway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reynolds

478-847-4414, silverdollarraceway.com Toccoa Motor Speedway (thru Oct.) . . . . . Toccoa 706-491-4493, www.toccoaraceway.com

GOLF Mar. 30 . . . . . Sandy Springs Police Benevolent Fund Golf Tournament, Cherokee Town & Country Club, 770-993-4401 Apr. 6-8 . . . Masters Golf Tournament, Augusta National Golf Club, 800-726-0243

Mar. 13-15 . . . . . . . . Pine Top Farm Horse Trials Thomson, 706-449-2029 Mar. 24 . . . Lou Thompson Memorial Trail Ride Chehaw Park, Albany, 229-430-3966 Mar. 27-29 . . . . . . . . . Trail Fest, Hancock Park & Town Square, Dahlonega, 706-864-3513 The Summer Issue of the Apr. 9-11 . . . . UGA Great Southland Stampede Rodeo, Athens, 800-653-0603 Apr. 18 . . . . 50th Annual Atlanta Steeplechase Kingstown Downs, 770-387-1357 May 15-16 . . . . Coweta Co. Cattlemen’s Assn. Rodeo, Fairgrounds, 6pm, 770-254-2627 Georgia International Horse Park Conyers, 888-860-4224, www.conyersga.com Mar. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S.E.Hunter/Jumper Series will feature Mar. 7-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fox Classics I & II RAIN IDES USEUMS Mar. 8-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spartan Race Spring GA Mar. 14-15 . . . . . . . Open Horse Show & Dressage EPOTS IN EORGIA Mar. 18-22 & 22-29 . . . . . Atlanta Spring Classic I Apr. 4-5 . . . . Greater Atl. Dressage Southern I & II Apr. 11-12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Open Horse Show To have your Apr. 18-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fox Classics I & II site listed, e-mail Apr. 30-May 2 . . . . . . . . . Dixie Cup Spring Classic May 13-17 . . . . . . . . . . . Atlanta Spring Challenge guidetogeorgia@windstream.net May 23-24 . . . . . . . . . . . S.E.Hunter/Jumper Series March / April / May 2015 / www.guidetogeorgia.com / GUIDE TO GEORGIA 29

Guide To GEORGIA

T R &D

,M G

Sporting Events War Days in Old Clinton War Days at Old Clinton will be held May 2-3 when re-enactors recreate the Battles of Sunshine Church and Griswoldville, both of which took place during Sherman’s 1864 March to the Sea. Tents will spring up, blue and gray soldiers will gather, and the rattle of musketry and the thunder of cannons will shake windows in old homes. The 16th Georgia Volunteer Infantry, Co. G, “The Jackson Rifles,” will sponsor rapid fire, U.S. & C.S. authenticity contests, and Unit Drill Competition. The McCarthy-Pope House (1809), the oldest house in Clinton, furnished in the war era by the Ladies of the Confederacy, will be open for tour. Miss Annie’s Store will display war relics and weapons, a prize-winning exhibit of Griswold pistol parts, a finished Griswold pistol, a Burnside carbine, and authentic Confederate currency. The Historic District, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, can be enjoyed with self-guided walking tours or guided by pre-reseravtion. Saturday concludes at 8:05pm with the 16th Ga., Co. G, Jackson Rifles, CSA conducting a Memorial Service in the Old Clinton Cemetery to honor Clinton’s Confederate dead. Home Schedule Gates will open at 9am. ATLANTA BRAVES Home Schedule Admission will be $5/adults; Apr. 10-13 . . . . . . . . . . .METS COLUMBUS LIONS $3/students 18 and under; Apr. 14-15 . . . . . . . .MARLINS Mar. 29 . . . . . . . .RICHMOND free/kids under 6. The MemApr. 27-29 . . . . . .NAIONALS Apr. 18 . . . . . . . . .NASHVILLE orial Service will be free. For Apr. 30-May 3 . . . . . . . .REDS Apr. 25 . . . . . . . . .ALABAMA information, phone 478-986May 4-6 . . . . . . . . . . .PHILLIES May 9 . . . . . . .LEHIGH VALLEY 6383 or 478-986-1123. May 19-20 . . . . . . . . . . .RAYS May 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ERIE May 21-24 . . . . . . .BREWERS 706-322-3336 404-577-9100 www.columbuslions.net www.atlantabraves.com

INDOOR FOOTBALL

BASEBALL

HOCKEY

Home Schedules COLUMBUS COTTONMOUTHS

Mar. 5 . . . . . . . .FAYETTEVILLE Mar. 7 . . . . . . . . .PENSACOLA Mar. 12 . . . . . . . .PENSACOLA Mar. 27 . . . . . . . .HUNTSVILLE Mar. 28 . . . . . . . . . . .Fireworks 706-571-0086 www.cottonmouths.com

GWINNETT GLADIATORS Mar. 7 . . .SOUTH CAROLINA Mar. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . .FLORIDA Mar. 13 . .SOUTH CAROLINA Mar. 27 . . . . . . . . .ORLANDO Mar. 28 . . . . . . . .GREENVILLE Mar. 29 . . . . . . . . .ORLANDO Apr. 4 . . . . . . . . .GREENVILLE Apr. 8 . . . . . . . . .EVANSVILLE 770-497-5100 www.gwinnettgladiators.com

he greatest T pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do. For with God nothing is ever impossible. L UKE 1:37

GOD’S LITTLE INSTRUCTION BOOK

Honor Books, Inc., Tulsa, OK

AUGUSTA GREENJACKETS

SOCCER Home Schedule ATLANTA SILVERBACKS Mar. 7 . . . . . . .SO. POLYTECH Mar. 14 . . . . . . . .CHARLOTTE Mar. 20 . . . . . .U. OF ALA-BIR. Mar. 28 . . . . . . . . . .CLEMSON Mar. 30 . . . . .YOUNG HARRIS Apr. 4 . . . . . . .INDIANAPOLIS Apr. 11 . . . . . . . . . . .OTTAWA Apr. 25 . . . . . . . . .NEW YORK May 16 . . . . . .JACKSONVILLE 678-608-0627 www.atlantasilverbacksfc.com

BASKETBALL Home Schedule ATLANTA HAWKS Mar. 3 . . . . . . . . . .HOUSTON Mar. 6 . . . . . . . . .CLEVELAND Mar. 9 . . . . . . .SACRAMENTO Mar. 22 . . . . .SAN ANTONIO Mar. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . .MIAMI Mar. 30 . . . . . . . . . . .DETROIT Apr. 4 . . . . . . . . . .BROOKLYN Apr. 7 . . . . . . . . . . . .PHOENIX Apr. 10 . . . . . . . .CHARLOTTE Apr. 13 . . . . . . . . .NEW YORK 404-249-6400 www.nba.com/hawks

Apr. 16-19 . . . . . . . . . .ROME Apr. 20-22 . . . .CHARLESTON Apr. 28-30 . . . . .LAKEWOOD May 1-4 . . . . . . . . . .DELMAR May 14-17 . . . . . . . .HICKORY May 21-24 . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE May 25-27 . . . . .GREENVILLE 706-736-7889 greenjacketsbaseball.com

ROME BRAVES Apr. 9-12 . . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE Apr. 13-15 . . . . .SAVANNAH Apr. 23-26 . . . . . . .AUGUSTA May 6-8 . . . . .HAGERSTOWN May 9-12 . . . . .GREENSBORO May 18-20 . . . .CHARLESTON May 21-24 . . . . .SAVANNAH 706-368-9388 www.romebraves.com

SAVANNAH SANDGNATS Apr. 16-19 . . . .CHARLESTON Apr. 21-22 . . . . . . . . . .ROME Apr. 28-30 . . . . . .DELMARVA May 1-4 . . . . . . .LAKEWOOD May 14-17 . . . . . .LEXINGTON May 18-20 . . . . . . .AUGUSTA May 25-27 . . . . . . .ASHEVILLE May 28-31 . . . .CHARLESTON 912-351-9150 www.sandgnats.com

GUIDE TO GEORGIA / www.guidetogeorgia.com / March / April / May 2015