New Year's Eve in Athens

It's almost time to bid adieu to our good friend 2013. We've had some good times, but we're moving on to something bigger and better... 2014! New Year's Eve plans are of the utmost importance because how you spend that night is said to be how you'll spend the rest of the next year. No one knows how to party better than Athens, Georgia, and with so many parties to choose from, they've got you covered for December 31st. So pop open that bottle of champagne, start belting out the lines of "Auld Lang Syne," and get on down to Athens to ring in the New Year in style!

Forget about stressing over your New Year's Eve plans! Spend your night dancing away at The Melting Point, and you won't have to worry about a thing because Foundry Park Inn & Spa has it all covered with New Year's Eve's biggest bash. They're offering two special packages, beginning at just $199! Enjoy a night of live music with The Swingin' Medallions, including dinner package options, champagne at midnight, and the area's largest balloon drop. 

If you're looking for a good time this New Year's Eve, look no further than Hotel Indigo's party in the the Rialto Room. The Hotel Indigo will be offering a special NYE package including a one-night stay in a luxurious room, two tickets to the exclusive party in the Rialto Room, and champagne at midnight! Athens' own band, The Highballs, will be rocking the stage all night to make sure no one forgets their last moments of 2013!


There can be no more exciting place to count down those last seconds of the old year, than at Athens' famous Georgia Theatre. Make it a night to remember when you toast to the new year with all your friends among the backdrop of some fabulous live music. New Madrid takes the stage at 9 p.m., followed by Velveteen Pink at 10 p.m. and then The Whigs take over at 11:15 p.m. to rock the house for the last time in 2013.


If you're considering celebrating 2014 in Athens, then a trip to the internationally-renowned 40 Watt Club should definitely make your list. No party in Athens would be complete without some great live music, and 40 Watt does it up right this New Year's Eve with Radiolucent. Doors at 9 p.m., show at 10 p.m.

Athens This Weekend: December 6 - 8

The holiday season is upon us in Athens, Georgia! No other city can help get you into the spirit better than the Classic City. With music, theatre, and food, there are so many different ways to have a good time while still being able to spread a little holiday cheer.  Plan your Georgia holiday getaway to Athens, GA today!

If you're a fan of the book that's been flying off the shelves, you're going to love what's coming to The Classic Center Friday December 6th at 8 p.m. 50 Shades! The Musical is a hilarious parody of the 50 Shades of Grey phenomenon. A sexy and hysterical musical romp, this is the show everyone is going to be talking about so grab your tickets now! It's going to be a night of music, dancing, and lots of laughs... what more could you possibly want?!

Now that the holidays are here, holiday shopping is sure to be on your mind. It's a tough task to find something unique for all the people in your life, but Indie South Fair's Holiday Hooray! is here to save the day! This Saturday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday noon - 5 p.m., come on out to the Boulevard Historic District (660 Chase Street) to see a diverse selection of handcrafted items that make perfect gifts for those people who are so hard to shop for. Home.made catering will be providing food, and there will also be live music to accompany you while you get a head start on all your holiday shopping.  This is just one of many, many artists markets occurring in Athens this December-- check out more at www.VisitAthensGA.com/holiday

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia's Annual Holiday Open House is here and it's sure to kick start your holiday season into high gear! Come on out to the Botanical Garden on Sunday from 2 - 5 p.m. and experience the tropical conservatory all decked out in festival decorations. Great family Christmas photo opp!  Live music will be performed by the Georgia Children's Chorus, Solstice Sisters, and Classic City Band. There will be three puppet shows in the Children's Classroom. And that's all not even mentioning that Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be there to take pictures with the children and chat about their Christmas wishes. It's going to be a very special day, one that you and your family are sure to add to your holiday traditions!

Come celebrate everyone's favorite time of year in the greatest city in the world! Nobody can do holidays better than Athens, Georgia. These aren't the only events going on this weekend, either. For a complete look at everything going on in the Classic City this season, and to see great overnight packages for The Nutcracker and New Year's Eve, check out www.VisitAthensGA.com/holiday. 

Holiday Season in Athens

It's time to deck the halls of the Classic City because everyone's favorite time of year is fast approaching... the holiday season! Nobody does winter holidays better than Athens, Georgia. The reason for the season is family and with SO much going on in December, you are certain to find something festive and fun that you and all your loved ones can enjoy. With "The Nutcracker" and ice skating in addition to returning favorites such as the parade and holiday markets, this year is the perfect opportunity to take a break and make a Georgia getaway to Athens this Christmas season.

For the first time ever in The Classic Center Theatre, audiences will be able to celebrate the season with a very special version of the Second Thursday Concert Series. The University of Georgia's Holiday Concert brings together the UGA Symphony Orchestra, Hodgson Singers, and University Chorus for a night of holiday music magic. Come and enjoy this unique community tradition on December 3 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. More information can be found here!

It wouldn't be Christmas in Athens, Georgia without the Parade of Lights. This popular annual event allows spectators the opportunity to view an evening parade and to enjoy the festive atmosphere of Downtown Athens while it is all decorated for the holiday season. This year's theme, the "Sounds of Christmas," will have Christmas cheer ringing through the Classic City on December 5.  The parade begins at 7 p.m. at the corner of Dougherty and Pulaski Street and ends an hour later in front of City Hall. The traditional tree lighting ceremony, hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, will follow. Kick off the 2013 holiday season in classic Athens style and don't miss the chance to see your favorite city lit up like a tree, a Christmas tree that is. 

Athens is well-known for its art scene, making holiday artist markets and special events the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts. This year the Indie South Fair (formerly Athens Indie Craftstravaganzaa) is expanding to a 2-day festival. The Holiday Hooray! on December 7th & 8th brings an eclectic selection of emerging artists and crafters from the South and beyond to downtown Athens. If you're an artist, the fair provides a venue for you to directly connect with the community in a street-fair atmosphere that is always free and open to everyone. So whether you're looking to share your craft or shop for loved ones, the Holiday Hooray! is a seasonal experience everyone should have. More information about the fair is available here.

The holiday season is all about the spirit of giving. Rather than racking your brain for the perfect gift for that special somebody, head on over to Handmade for the Holidays: Athens Artist Market at The Classic Center. With 60 local artists displaying their unique, one-of-a-kind crafts, you're sure to find something for everyone on your shopping list. With everything from pottery and paintings, to jewelry and skincare, no one will be leaving empty-handed! Handmade for the Holidays will be at The Classic Center December 14 from noon - 8 p.m., and December 15 from noon - 6 p.m. There are even more shopping opportunities in Athens, including the Lyndon House Arts Center's Deck the Walls Holiday Shop and Heirloom Café's Holiday Market.

Allow yourself to be transported to Christmases past. On December 14, the Athens Historic House Museum Association will host the Holiday Spirits Museum Mile Tour which will focus on period holiday traditions spanning the 19th century by exploring four unique historic houses from the Federal, Greek Revival, and Victorian periods. The tour will culminate with a glorious Victorian Christmas at the Ware-Lyndon House. The tour begins at 2 p.m. and tickets are $25. Make your reservations today by calling 706-353-1820. 

No holiday season would be complete without the twinkle of Christmas lights. From December 12 - 21st, the Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services Department will host Deck the Hollow Holiday Lights at Bear Hollow Zoo. Everyone is invited to celebrate the holiday in lights from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. nightly. Other festive activities will include live music, animal encounters, and photo opportunities in the zoo illuminated by lights. Admission is $2 per person, free for ages 2 and under. More information can be found here.

From December 14 - 22, Christmas at The Classic Center will transform the Grand Hall into a winter wonderland complete with a series of ongoing events including a festival of trees, ice skating, pictures with Santa, and more. Bring your family and y'all can enjoy a special breakfast with Santa and other holiday characters on Saturday December 14 or December 21 at 9 a.m. In Santa's workshop, the kiddos will be able to decorate cookies and create holiday crafts. Other highlights of the festival include professional gingerbread houses on display, local choral group performances, and holiday story and movie time. Additional information can be found here or by calling 706-357-4444.

For generations, no other holiday activity has represented the spirit of Christmas as memorably as a family outing to see "The Nutcracker." This holiday season, The Classic Center will host State Ballet Theatre of Russia's "The Nutcracker" for three special performances. On December 21-22, the magic of Christmas will come alive as audiences enjoy the spectacular sets, beautiful costumes, and enchanting choreography. You have three chances to catch this holiday classic come to life: Saturday at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. What would Christmas be without "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy?" Don't miss out this year! Ticketing information can be found at here. Overnight packages including tickets to see "The Nutcracker" are available for December 21st.

The year is almost over and 2014 is on its way! Finding the perfect plans for New Year's Eve can be really stressful, so take a load off and come to the Classic City. With tons of live music all around town and several hotels offering special holiday packages, Athens has all you need to ring in the New Year just right! 

The holidays will be over before you know it; try to soak up all the end of the year activities while you still can! Grab some hot cocoa and all your loved ones, and make some lasting memories during the most wonderful time of the year in the most wonderful city of all: Athens, Georgia! The Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau is here to help you while you plan your holiday visit to Athens. Visit them at visitathensga.com or call them at 706-357-4430 for information. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! 

Athens This Weekend: October 25 - 27

The month of October has flown by and its last weekend is already approaching. Athens, Georgia has all you could ever need to soak up the last days before November. Halloween festivities will be in full swing this weekend.  If you're looking to drink at historic pubs, experience all the local arts, or join the wildest Halloween party in all of Georgia, there's no excuse to sit at home this weekend. Come visit the Classic City and experience a weekend you're sure to never forget!

This Friday, the Athens Clarke Heritage Foundation will hold the 4th Annual Historic Pub Crawl.  The Pub Crawl is the perfect opportunity to check out Athens' renowned hot spots. Even club veterans will learn new details and behind the scenes stories from their favorites.  Crawlers will visit several local and historic watering holes. They'll also enjoy a sample of Terrapin beer at each stop, as well as receiving samples of appetizers, a custom Pub Crawl t-shirt, and a downtown parking voucher. The crawl lasts from 6 - 10 p.m. and space is limited so make your reservations now to ensure a spot! 

Summer may be long gone, but festival season is ripe for the picking! This Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., come out to Lyndon House Arts Center for the Lickskillet Artists Market. This unique indoor/outdoor festival will host more than 50 artist booths, including hands-on activities perfect for families and performances by several local musicians. There will also be tours of the Ware-Lyndon House, live art demonstrations by area-artists, and food vendors. The market will take place rain or shine; plus it's FREE and open to all ages so there's really no reason not to come check it out! 

It's finally here! The Halloween event of the year, the Wild Rumpus Parade, is this Saturday at 7 p.m. Come express your inner creative spirit by dressing up in costume and marching solo or in a themed brigade. Along with the traditional mayhem in the streets, this year will be bringing all new features such as an outdoor stage from 8 - 9 p.m. and all sorts of daytime activities for the kids i.e. a Monster Mash rock show from 2 - 4 p.m., Halloween crafts, a Haunted House, and more! Athens' craziest Halloween party all ends with a wild bash at the 40 Watt Club at 9 p.m., featuring performances by several local musicians. This event isn't for the faint at heart, so this Saturday be ready to get WILD! For more information, such as the parade route or schedule details, check out www.wildrumpus.org.

With only two more home UGA football games left, there's not a lot of time left to soak up all the magic between the hedges. The Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau has all the assistance you need to plan your football weekend visit to Athens. For all things UGA football related, including tips on where to stay, eat, or park, check out visitathensga.com/football.

There's so much going on this weekend in Athens, Georgia that you're not going to want to miss out on! For a complete list of events and activities, check out the Athens CVB events calendar. Have a fun and safe weekend! 

Wild Rumpus Halloween Parade and Spectacle

Looking for an amazingly interactive Halloween activity in one of America’s most exciting college towns? In the style of Burning Man or the Oregon Country Fair, Athens, Ga hosts their own explosion of creative energy: the Wild Rumpus Parade and Spectacle. On October 26, 2013, thousands of creatively-costumed revelers will march their way through Downtown Athens. Last year saw nearly 3,000 people flood the streets of the Classic City and 2013 aims to see even more. The parade is FREE for both spectators and participants, so start planning your costume and head to Athens to enjoy the festivities!

While last year's Wild Rumpus parade was focused on howling at the moon, this year's theme aims even bigger with "RAWR ~ A Tribute to the Sun." With a focus on Leo and the Sun, downtown Athens will be set ablaze on October 26th as the pinnacle Halloween event to let loose this bubbling stew of artistic self-expression, costuming, and gleeful abandon.

One unique aspect of the Wild Rumpus is that it encourages creativity and group spirit. Attendees can opt to walk alone, in pairs, or small groups. Or even better . . . you can choose to form your own themed brigade with friends, or even join an existing brigade. Examples of past brigades include Leather and Lace, Dead and Famous, Zombies, Belly-dancers, even Disney characters. Basically if you can theme it, you can form it! Let your creativity shine through like the Sun! Floats, banners, performances, and music are all welcome. Those wanting to walk in the parade MUST be dressed in costume, so don't forget to dress up in your Halloween best.

This year’s 5th anniversary of the Wild Rumpus brings with it many exciting new features in addition to those participants have come to relish. A new outdoor stage at the end of the parade route will host even more live, local music. There will also be many new daytime activities aimed at including the younger crowd into the festivities. For the first time ever, kids can look forward to a "Monster Mash" party, complete with musical acts, puppeteers, crafts stations, a haunted house, and all sorts of Wild Things.


Top off the evening with a concert at the world-famous, fabulous 40 Watt Club. The after-party extravaganza, for those 18+, will feature local bands Ghost Owl, Space Trucks, and Wild Rumpus master of ceremonies Timi Conley with Kite to the Moon. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the party starts at 9 p.m.


The 5th incarnation of the Wild Rumpus Parade is sure to be unlike any other. With many new activities for children, this year aims to get the entire family involved. Whether you want to dress up on your own, in a brigade, or just come down and watch, the Wild Rumpus is really a special treat for all of Athens.


Ready to join in?  Head to  www.wildrumpus.org to review the participation guidelines and to register if you plan to enter a float or vehicle.  Then, plan to meet at the corner of Clayton St. and Pulaski St. in downtown Athens at 7:00 p.m. The parade will begin at 7:30.

The Wild Rumpus isn't the only fun event going on in Athens, Georgia this Halloween. For a complete list of events, travel information, and everything else Athens-related, check out VisitAthensGa.com.

Halloween in Athens, Ga

Halloween is always an exciting time of year no matter where you are, but to do Halloween in Athens, Georgia is to do it right. Whether you're looking to party, hear ghost stories, or spend a fun evening with your family, the Classic City has got you covered. Don't wait until the 31st --  this year, Athens has more than enough reasons to celebrate Halloween all month long.

Fall is finally here ladies and gentlemen, and in Athens, Georgia that means the celebration lasts all season long. If you're looking for some wholesome, fall family fun, then head over to the five-acre Athens Corn Maze which is open Thursday - Sunday through November 2nd. Contrary to its name, the corn maze is more than just that. In addition to the Corn Maze, you and your friends can enjoy a "Hey Hey Heyride," pony rides, and farm animals. There's also the Corn Box filled with freshly shelled corn, which offers a seasonal alternative to a sandbox for children (or adults!) to play in. There's no better way to spend your autumn day than lost in a sea of corn with all your friends. You can come visit Thursday - Friday 5 p.m. - 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. - 10 p.m. Admission to the Corn Maze is $10 per person and free for children under 3 years of age.

Looking for some wholesome fun for the kiddo's this Halloween? Come on out to the famous 40 Watt Club. They'll be hosting a Halloween Kids Dance Party with theatrical kids band Like Totally! on Saturday October 19th. All guests, including parents, are encouraged to dress up as there will be a costume contest during the show. As an added treat, Like Totally! will be debuting their new single and music video "Veggie Wrap." There will be snacks and juice boxes for the kids, as well as a bar for those of age. Doors open at 2 p.m., the show starts at 3 p.m. Tickets are only $5. Check out www.40watt.com for more information.

Those looking for a chance to interact with some creepy-crawlies this Halloween season should look no further than Scary, Oozy, Slimy Day. Sandy Creek Nature Center will be hosting one of their most popular events on October 19th, 4 - 7 p.m., which offers attendees the chance to spend the evening learning about different scary bugs and insects, in addition to participating in a variety of games, activities and crafts. This year there will be delicious food vendors, including Shane's Rib Shack. Admission is $3 for ACC residents, $5 for non-residents, and free for children under the age of 3. For more details, go to www.athensclarkecounty.com.




Lickskillet Artists Market, a unique indoor/outdoor market featuring eclectic wares by countless artists of all ages, returns to Lyndon House Arts Center on Saturday, October 26th from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. In addition to over 50 artist booths, you'll be able to get your hands dirty with many hands-on art activities perfect for families, and then enjoy performances by a variety of local musicians. The event also includes tours of the historic Ware-Lyndon House, live art demonstrations by area artists and some delicious food provided by food vendors.The best part? Admission to the Market is free and open to all ages, however, children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information visit www.athensclarkecounty.com/lyndonhouse.

No talk of Halloween in Athens would be complete without mention of the Wild Rumpus Parade. October 26, 2013 marks the 5th year anniversary of this crazy event where thousands of people dress up and march around downtown Athens, Ga. It's the Classic City's take on similar events like Burning Man or The Oregon Country Fair, except with many of its own unique twists. The Wild Rumpus Parade offers the opportunity to form brigades with friends, all dressed in a themed costume, or you can join an already existing group and make new friends as y'all march through downtown together. The creative energy of Athens is never more evident than during the Wild Rumpus. The night concludes with a wild party at the famous 40 Watt Club featuring local bands Ghost Owl, Space Trucks, and Timi and Kite to the Moon. Those who attended last year will remember howling at the moon, but this year's theme goes in the opposite direction with "RAWR ~ A Tribute to the Sun!" Along with a new theme, the Wild Rumpus will be featuring all new daytime events for families and kids of all ages! Kids can enjoy a brand new "Monster Mash" rock show, haunted house, face painting and more. Additionally, paraders can look forward to new adventures including an outdoor stage at the end of the parade route. This year's deserving non-profit charity recipient is Nuçi's Space. The parade starts at 7:30 p.m. and the after-party starts at 9 p.m. Come on out and make sure to wear your costume! Tickets for the concert can be found at www.40watt.com and parade details can be found at www.wildrumpus.org.

Before you gorge yourself on pounds of Halloween Candy, get a head start on your exercise with the thirteenth annual Jack O' Lantern Jog and Goblin Fun Run. It will take place October 27th at the Sandy Creek Nature Center. This festive four-mile road race and one-mile fun run raises money in support of the Sandy Creek Nature Center. All runners are encouraged to dress up. The costume contest starts at 1:40 p.m., the Fun Run at 2 p.m., and the Jack O' Lantern Jog begins at 2:30. There will be unique trophies for winners, runners medallions for kids 10 and under, and much more. Prizes will be given out in each age division for the four-miler. Visit www.athensclarkecounty.com for more information or www.active.com to register online.

This year on Tuesday October 29th, children ages 2 - 12 will get the chance to take a haunted trick-or-treat tour of the Athens' Bear Hollow Zoo when they hold "Boo at the Zoo." Afterwards, make sure to head on over to Memorial Park's Halloween Carnival for fun and prizes! Kids are encouraged to dress up, as there will be a costume contest every hour. The carnival, which will run from 5 - 8 p.m, will also feature stories, games, and activities. Kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The event is $4 admission for children, and free for parents, guardians and children under the age of 2. Find more information at www.athensclarkecounty.com.

Halloween in Athens is particularly special because all old towns have lots of great ghost stories to tell. This year's Athens-Clarke Heritage Foundation's  "Haunted History Tour" will be held on Wednesday, October 30th and Thursday, October 31st at 7:30 p.m. The two-hour tour will wind through Downtown Athens and UGA's North Campus and explore the spirits, hauntings, superstitions and mysterious legends of the Classic City. Get your tickets now to hear stories of murder, suicide, and many other spooky tales. Tickets are $15 for non-ACHF members, $12 for members. For more information visit www.achfonline.org/heritage-walks.

Halloween is a time to spend with friends, rediscover your youth, don a costume, and share in the abundance of spooky stories and candy. If you're looking to do all that, and more, then Athens is where you need to be. Make sure not to miss out on all this great city has to offer, whether it be the rich and haunted history, or thousands of wild Athenians parading downtown in full costume. More information on these events, along with complete travel information, is available from the Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau at VisitAthensGA.com, 706-357-4430.

Athens This Weekend: September 27 - 29

It's the first weekend in Autumn and this weekend in Athens, Georgia is going to be a wild one! There are so many different ways to experience the joys of the Classic City: food, football, history and music! With ESPN's College Gameday here, there's no better time than the present to celebrate this great city and all it has to offer!

If you love to eat then this weekend is perfect for you! Supper Club is a private dining experience held in the beautiful converted storefront of the award winning home.made catering in Athens, Georgia. Created by chef Mimi Maumus, each Supper Club menu is individually crafted, seasonally relevant, and distinctively Southern. Supper Club is once a month on Friday evenings from 7 - 9:30 pm but they are now offering a second night of supper on Saturday to accommodate more people! The menu for this weekend is already posted so make sure to reserve your spot! The seats are $50 and they go fast so purchase them now!

The LSU Tigers are coming to fight the Dawgs between the hedges this Saturday at 3:30 p.m. It's a big game for the SEC rivals, one that's sure to be fought until the very end. It's such a highly anticipated game that ESPN's College Gameday is going to be tagging along, covering all the action. They're setting up in Myers Quad and will begin broadcasting live Saturday morning at 10 a.m. Dawg fans are split on if this will mean good things for the game or not, College Gameday's attendance hasn't always boasted well for UGA. But if we're ever going to overcome the curse, and show Lee Corso once and for all that we're worth the hype, then us dawg fans need to show up early and stay late! UGA vs LSU is always an exciting game and you're not going to want to miss out so make sure you have all your plans set for Saturday in Athens!

Another way to celebrate all things Athens, is to join the Athens Clarke Heritage Foundation on Sunday for an Athens Heritage Walks tour through the Boulevard National Heritage District. Boulevard, the first "streetcar suburb" of Athens, has a rich history that extends all the way back to 1890. The diversity that characterized Boulevard's development continues today as eclectic and creative types of homes abound. Join Pratt Cassity, the director of The Center for Community Design and Preservation, at 2 p.m. for a walking tour that will enhance your appreciation for this great city. It will last around 2 hours and is $12 for ACHF members, $15 for non-members. 

Athens is fortunate in many ways, including being home to the accoustically-superior UGA Performing Arts center to draw acclaimed acts such as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra this Sunday. Pianist André Watts will join Maestro Robert Spano for an innovative program that features three "No. 3s" by the immortal "Three Bs" of classical music...Bach's Suite No. 3 for Orchestra, the Symphony No. 3 of Brahms, and Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3. Sunday is the perfect day to enjoy some beautiful music from your favorite composers so come on out to Hodgson Concert Hall in the UGA Performing Arts Center. The performance begins at 3 p.m. but there's a special pre-concert lecture that will take place 45 minutes prior. 

This weekend will be HUGE for UGA football. LSU and ESPN's College Gameday are coming and it's time we show them both what Saturday in Athens is all about! So, head out early -- and bring your signs! -- to join Kirk Herbstreit, Lee Corso, and the rest of the ESPN College Gameday crew at Myers quad, starting at 9 a.m. Don't wait to make plans! Check out www.visitathensga.com/football for all things UGA football-related!

Don't stay inside and miss out on all the amazingly fun things there are going on in Athens, Georgia this weekend! With good food, good music, and UGA football, it's the perfect opportunity to soak up the beautiful weather in our beautiful city! Have a great weekend and GO DAWGS! 

Athens 2013 Fall Festivals and Events

Fall in Athens, Georgia is arguably the greatest time of year. The weather finally takes a dip below scorching which makes the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy the MANY fall events and festivals going on around the Classic City. Coinciding with UGA football, there is also music, arts, other fantastic athletic events and so much more! So step outside, feel the slight chill creeping into the air, and enjoy all fun things to do in Athens GA. 

Kicking off this year's fall festivals is the 29th Annual North Georgia Folk Festival which will be returning to Sandy Creek Park on Saturday, October 5. This year folk legend John McCutcheon will be headlining this exciting event featuring live folk and Americana music, plus unique arts and crafts workshops and activities for festival-goers of all ages. Kids will get to experience demonstrations of wood working, quilt making, folk paintings just to name a few! This year's schedule also includes performances by The Darnell Boys, String Theory, Emerald Road and so many others! All additional North Georgia Folk Festival information is on the Athens Folk Music and Dance website at http://athensfolk.org/.

Celebrate your inner child and skate your way across Georgia with the oldest and most famous road skate in America, the Athens-to-Atlanta Road Skate, which will be held on Sunday, October 6. This year marks the 32nd anniversary of this Georgia road skate, which covers a fun, but challenging, 87-mile course through beautiful country roads and bustling city streets, ending in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward Skate Park. For those skaters who aren't prepared to take on 87 miles, alternative 38-mile and 52-mile course options are also available. The Athens-to-Atlanta Road Skate allows participants to push themselves physically while bonding with fellow skaters. The Athens-to-Atlanta Road Skate's website has specific race information, including prices, times and the skate route, at http://www.a2a.net/.

After gorging yourself on all the yummy fall foods, you and your friends can run it off at the Athens Half! This year marks the fourth year of the AthFest Half Marathon, taking place October 20. Runners will enjoy the 13.1-mile course stretching all through the beautiful and historic Classic City. Kick off race weekend with the AthHalf Fitness Expo on Saturday, October 19, at The Classic Center in downtown Athens, Georgia. Lasting from 12-6 p.m., the Expo will provide individuals with discounted running and exercise merchandise, free samples of fitness products and several fitness- and wellness-related demonstrations and exhibits. The race itself takes place Sunday morning, October 20, beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Clayton Street in Athens and winding through the historic streets of the Classic City, past major area landmarks, through the University of Georgia's campus and ending with a victory lap of Sanford Stadium. Additional race weekend information can be found at http://athhalf.com/.

Once October comes, the countdown to Halloween begins and that can only mean one thing... Wild Rumpus! The streets of Athens come alive during Halloween's Wild Rumpus parade and spectacle on Saturday, October 26, when the downtown area transforms into a land of the undead, complete with a parade of unique costumes and fantastic live music. This year's theme is RAWR ~ Tribute to the Sun. Everyone is encouraged to get extremely creative with their Halloween costumes and you can dress independently or come as part of an already-existing, or newly created, costume brigade. You and your friends can follow the parade through the streets of the Classic City, which will end with a live concert at one of Athens' famous music venues, the 40 Watt Club. Concert doors open at 8 p.m., with the show starting at 9 p.m. Wild Rumpus's website has complete information about the night's events here!

Closing out this year's fall events this November, the UGA Arts council will host the Spotlight on the Arts Festival. This nine day festival will bring over 50 performing arts events to the Athens area. From Thursday, November 7 to Friday, November 15, you will be able to experience events and activities that include concerts, theater and dance performances, art exhibitions, poetry readings, author panels and book signings, lectures and discussions on the arts and creativity, and more. This festival has something for everybody who is interested in the arts! Visitors can catch the improvisational comedy show the Two Man Group featuring Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood, UGA Opera Theatre's performance of Carmen, Hal Holbrook in Mark Twain Tonight!, or the University Theatre production of Pride and Prejudice...and that is just the tip of the iceberg! A schedule of specific events and ticket information is available at arts.uga.edu.

There is no reason to be sitting inside this fall, get out and explore all that this city can offer you! Athens, Georgia has anything you could ever want to do to celebrate the season. The weather is right and the festivals are hopping so make sure to plan your fall events in the Classic City! For a list of all events going on in Athens, Ga check out visitathensga.com/events.

 

Athens This Weekend: September 13 - 15

While the UGA football team is taking a well-deserved break after beating down on the Gamecocks last Saturday, this weekend offers plenty of other fun things to do in Athens, Georgia! We are already half-way through September and that means that there are an abundance of cool events to keep boredom at bay! With so much going on, take the opportunity to grab your friends and family and try something new in the Classic City!

Last year's UGA team went undefeated in this two-day tournament and is back to defend their title in this year's Benson's Hospitality Group two day Invitational! Catch the UGA Volleyball team in their games against North Florida, Louisiana-Lafayette, and UNC Greensboro. All dedicated fans will be rewarded for their promptness, with prizes being given out each day to the first couple hundred fans to arrive at each game. Bring the whole family because the tournament with also be featuring a Carnival Day! Kids can enjoy carnival games, balloon animals, face painting and a bounce house on the concourses. Sports, carnival games, prizes, and halftime performances...what more could you ask for? The games are free so get there early and show your support!

 

If you're looking to see some good music this weekend, look no further than the Dirty Dozen Brass Band! They were once asked to play the main stage at the VERY FIRST Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival back in 2002, and I think that says all you need to know about this unique musical experience. Come witness the magic of this captivating act as they spread their authentic New Orleans sound and preach their brass blend up and down the country to the delight of audiences young and old. Head over to The Melting Point on Sunday night for a chance to breath in the rich sounds of the French Quarter! Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.! Get your tickets here!

 

From the Beginning: The Art of Jack Davis is an all-new exhibit opening Thursday at the Gallery @ Hotel Indigo, with works by acclaimed illustrator Jack Davis, known for his masterful pen and ink work for MAD Magazine, EC Comics, TIME, Newsweek, TV Guide, and Esquire magazines, dozens of movie posters, hundreds of album covers, and of course beloved sports caricatures.

Other Events

Fit Family Fun Fest , Sat., 10 a.m. - 12 noon, Bishop Park 3rd Annual Keepin' It Clean Dirty Dance Party, Sat. 5:30 - 9 p.m., Little Kings Shuffle Club Galactic at Georgia Theatre, Sat. doors 8 p.m., show 10:30 p.m.; Georgia Theatre

 

Other Athens Events

Fit Family Fun Fest , Sat., 10 a.m. - 12 noon, Bishop Park 3rd Annual Keepin' It Clean Dirty Dance Party, Sat. 5:30 - 9 p.m., Little Kings Shuffle Club Galactic at Georgia Theatre, Sat. doors 8 p.m., show 10:30 p.m.; Georgia Theatre

There's so much going on this weekend so make sure not to miss out on the many things you can do around the Classic City! Take advantage of the UGA football bye week and check out all that Athens has to offer before North Texas comes to town next Saturday! Have a great weekend and GO DAWGS!

Athens This Weekend: September 6 - 8

Another weekend is fast approaching and with so many fun things to do you need to make your plans now to ensure you won't be missing out! With an abundance of live music and the first UGA football home game, there's no shortage of fun things to do in the Classic City! There is something for everyone so grab your friends, get out and explore all that Athens, Georgia has to offer!

If you haven't heard of Corey Smith, you need to make your way over to the Classic Center on Friday night to see what all the fuss is about! His 2011 single, "Twenty-One", put him on the country music map and led him straight into the hearts of all Athenians. Growing up right outside of Athens, his love for UGA and the Classic City is at the forefront of his music and to see him live in the city where he grew up is really an experience you don't want to miss! The show starts at 8 p.m. and there are still some tickets left but don't wait too long because it's sure to be a sell-out! Find tickets and more information here!

You can also head over to Lyndon House Arts Center this Friday night 7 - 10 p.m. to pair some tasty new beer with some inspiring short films! New Belgium Brewing, the maker of Fat Tire Amber Ale and many other award-winning brews, is bringing the Clips Beer and Film Tour to Athens once again and if you haven't experienced it before, you're not going to want to miss out on this! It is a national beer and film festival where guests can try beers from New Belgium's Lips of Faith series, along with some popular classics, and screen short films made by New Belgium fans. This year you can see films on mastering the technique of dice rolling, the quest for the ultimate full moon shot, a duel to be the hippest hipster, and home brewing in a small New York City apartment. Admission is free so if you're looking for something new to do with friends that doesn't break the bank, you can find more information on this exciting opportunity here!

It's hereeee! It's finally here! Football has finally made its way to Athens, Georgia! For everyone who bleeds red and black, this is the greatest time of year. Saturday at 4:30 p.m., the Georgia Bulldogs will be teeing it up between the hedges against our hated rivals, the South Carolina Gamecocks! Last weekend against Clemson didn't fare too well for our dawgs, which makes this weekend against USC that much more important. It's been a few years since we last beat the Gamecocks and every dawg fan would love nothing more than to redeem ourselves. Don't miss this opportunity to be with all your closest friends and make sure to watch this heated match-up between SEC East rivals!

Still unsure of your plans for UGA gamedays? Don't worry! Check out visitathensga.com/football for all things UGA football. You can see what hotels are still available, information on parking, and many more fun ideas for how to maximize your UGA football experience!

If any of these don't tickle your fancy, no worries! There's plenty more opportunities to have a good time in Athens, Georgia this weekend! Take a look at the event calendar for a complete look at events! Have a great weekend and GO DAWGS!

Athens This Weekend: July 19 - 21

Another weekend is upon us in the Classic City, and like always, there's plenty of activities to keep the family occupied! Take advantage of one of the last weekends that Athens, Georgia has plenty of room to move around before all of the students return. Head to Athens for live music, free tours of Terrapin Brewery, a real-life "Where's Waldo?" hunt, a pool party, and more! 

Kick off your weekend on the Georgia Theatre Rooftop with an energetic performance by Jubee and the Morning After, a local Athens band full of soul and spunk, followed by the headlining band, Stokeswood, who got together in Atlanta, GA and coined the phrase "Low-Endie" rock to describe their layered mixture of pumping synths, powerful vocals, and irresistible dance vibe. Best of all, the whole show is free of charge, and if you get hungry, The Branded Butcher serves their food on the Rooftop! Music starts at 11 p.m., and this is a 21+ show.

This Saturday from 7 - 8:30 p.m., Bishop Park is celebrating the 43rd anniversary of Neil Armstrong landing on the moon with a night of swimming and fun activities at the Bishop Park Pool. This free event is open to all ages, and everyone will enjoy the nights arts, crafts, music, and astronomy activities! Wrap up the night's festivities with a free Moonpie dessert and Tang (the beverage of astronauts). Splashdown at Bishop Park Pool is going to be a blast for the whole family, so plan your weekend accordingly!

Fulfill a childhood dream by making the "Where's Waldo?" game come to life this month. Where's Waldo in ATH? is a month-long competition to find the 25 Waldos hiding in 25 local Athens businesses. Avid Bookshop is hosting this game and is offering coupons when you find 8 Waldos, and even better prizes when you find 16 of them! The winners will be drawn at the party on July 31st at Avid Bookshop. Additionally, you'll be supporting your local Athens businesses and local economy, so download you Waldo 'passport' from Avid Bookshop's website today!

This is a great weekend to check out Bear Hollow Zoo and Exhibit Hall! Located in Memorial Park in Athens, Bear Hollow Zoo invites you and the family to observe some unique wildlife such as black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, owls, and more along the wildlife trail seven days a week between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Saturdays are special at the zoo because the exhibit hall is open, which features projects for you and the kids and live animals that you can see and even touch from 1 - 4 p.m.! You'll also get to learn about the zoo animals' stories and how the staff take care of them. It's fun and educational for visitors of all ages! 

Terrapin Beer Co. Free Tastings & Tours is always a great idea on any Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday. This weekend, though, the deal has been sweetened, and you'll get to try Athens' first food truck, Street Cafe Food Truck, at Terrapin's tours on Friday and Saturday evenings! The truck serves food full of flavors from around the world. As usual, a $10 beer souvenir glass grants you eight tickets that are each redeemable for a 4 oz. pour of your choice of Terrapin's fine beers (for those ages 21+). Bring your family, friends, and/or four-legged leashed companion and enjoy outdoor live music, good beer, lawn games, and a delicious meal this Friday and Saturday from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.!

Athenians and visitors have been loving Summer Water Rentals and Friday Night Paddles at Sandy Creek Park lately; if you haven't tried it, this weekend is your chance! Visitors ages 12+ who complete registration and payment by calling 706-613-3631 before 5 p.m. on Friday will get to enjoy Sandy Creek Park's Lake Chapman under the moonlight atop a canoe, kayak, or paddle board from 8:30 - 10:30 p.m. during Friday Night Paddles! The equipment can also be rented from 1 - 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays with Sandy Creek Park's Summer Water Rentals program. Make this weekend fun, healthy, and full of beautiful outdoor scenery at Lake Chapman!

This weekend, Athens, Georgia has lots of activities for people of all ages. Take advantage of the free music and wildlife, water activities, and local beer, food, and games! For more ideas and event listings, check out our event calendar. Have a wonderful weekend!

Fun & Free Family Destinations: Athens, GA

Looking for free family summer activities? Search no further, because the current issue of Georgia Magazine features a great article titled "North Georgia on a Dime: 10 Fun and Free Places to Take Your Family," and Athens, Georgia was thrilled to land not one, but two spots on the list!  The two selected Classic City attractions are the Georgia Museum of Natural History and Bear Hollow Zoo and Memorial Park.  We agree that these are indeed great, free spots for the family, as the Georgia Museum of Natural History contains a wealth of unique items, and Bear Hollow Zoo offers a quaint home to a wide array of wildlife.  For more ideas for the family in Athens, Georgia this summer, see our family blog post and website page!  The following information is directly from the Georgia Magazine article, which was written by Jacqueline Rosser.

#7: Georgia Museum of Natural History

"You'll find everything from bugs to birds to mammals and more in the large collections at the Georgia Museum of Natural History on the University of Georgia campus in Athens. The University's many specimens comprise the most comprehensive selection in the state. With so much to see at the museum, you'll find there is something for everyone. Tours are available by appointment, or you can stop by the Exhibit Gallery free of charge at any time the museum is open. 101 Cedar St., University of Georgia Campus, Athens. naturalhistory.uga.edu. (706) 542-1663."

If You Go:  The museum is open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday 12 p.m.-3 p.m. For visits less than 45 minutes, park in the green-marked spaces in lot S06, which is accessible from East Campus Road and Cedar Street. For guests wishing to visit for longer than 45 minutes, please see the museum's front desk attendant to purchase a $2.00 parking pass for the day.

#10: Bear Hollow Zoo and Memorial Park

"Before leaving Athens, head on over to Bear Hollow Zoo and Memorial Park to see Georgia's native wildlife up close. The zoo and wildlife preserve are home to many animals, including the bald eagle, great horned owl, wild turkey, black bear, white-tailed deer, American alligator and more.

      'Bear Hollow Zoo is one of the most popular places in Athens for families and a great deal because it is free of charge and open seven days a week. Everyone loves the shaded paths that lead them from one area of the zoo to the next. It is a particularly special place because all of the zoo residents have been deem unreleasable, so they couldn't survive in the wild, including two of our bears who were orphaned as cubs' says Cathy Padgett, public information coordinator, Athens Clarke County Leisure Services.

      The zoo itself is open daily, and the Exhibit Hall, complete with projects for younger visitors and animals to touch, is open on select weekend days. 293 Gran Ellen Dr., Athens. athensclarkecounty.com/bearhollow. (706) 613-3616."

If You Go:  The park is open 8:00 a.m. to sunset on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. to sunset on weekends and holidays, and the zoo 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

Thanks again to Jaqueline Rosser, who wrote the original article in Georgia Magazine. Plan your family visits to Athens' Georgia Museum of Natural History and Bear Hollow Zoo and Memorial Park along with North Georgia's eight other featured destinations! For other family fun activities in the Classic City, see our Family Fun in Athens this Summer blog post.