Top 5 To Do List in Athens, Ga on Football Weekends

This fall when you and thousands of others head to Athens, Georgia to cheer on the Dawgs in the Sanford Stadium, be sure to check out all that the Classic City has to offer beyond the hedges. With so many available activities, the Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau has decided to compile a "Top 5 Things To Do in Athens on Football Weekends" list!

1: Explore VIBRANT DOWNTOWN

Just a short walk from Sanford Stadium, downtown Athens is bursting at its seams with stylish and quirky shops, a variety of bars and music venues, unbeatable dining, and more. The Victoria-era architecture creates an inviting atmosphere for both visitors and locals to take a leisurely stroll and explore the local shops. Athens nightlife is one of a kind- especially on game days. You'll have to experience it for yourself! While you're checking out the town, keep a look out for the world's only Double-Barreled Cannon on the corner of College Ave. and Hancock Ave and the Tree That Owns Itself, which is a few blocks away on the corner of Dearing St. and Finley St. Bordering downtown, the University of Georgia's beautiful North Campus, which also makes for a beautiful walk, begins at The Arch on Broad Street.

2: Catch a LIVE MUSIC show

Named the "Number One College Music Scene in America" by Rolling Stone Magazine, Athens is gushing with awesome music!  The local venues attract rising stars, old favorites, and everything in between. Not only have world-renowned bands such as R.E.M., the B-52's, and Widespread Panic originated from the Classic City, but hundreds of new and upcoming bands make their debut in Athens each year. Between famous Athens venues such as the Georgia Theatre, The Melting Point, and 40 Watt Club, and intimate venues such as Caledonia Lounge, Little Kings Shuffle Club, and the Green Room, there is always a great show to be seen. Check out the performance schedule here!

3: Indulge in LOCAL FOOD

No football fan will be underfed this season with dozens of delectable restaurants lining the streets of downtown Athens. The Classic City's food scene is booming and has recently caught the attention of national media. Among the most recognized eateries are Five and Ten, Top Chef Hugh Acheson's restaurant, and The Last Resort Grill on Clayton St., which is always a family favorite. Mama's Boy, Heirloom Cafe, The Grit, Porterhouse Grill, and East-West Bistro are also popular choices for weekend brunch. There is no shortage of traditional "tailgating food" such as pizza, burgers, and wings, which can be found downtown at Amici Italian Cafe, The Volstead, and Dirty Birds. A complete list of Athens restaurants can be found here.

4: Taste and tour TERRAPIN BREWERY

While in Athens, fans will want to try local Athens beer. Known for its unsurpassed flavor and character, Terrapin beer is quickly winning over the nation. Adding to their collection of awards, Terrapin Beer Co. recently claimed a spot on The Best 25 Craft Breweries in the U.S. list, and visitors will understand why. The whole family, including leashed four-legged friends, is invited to tour the brewery on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Live outdoor music, free tastings, lawn games, and brewery tours every half-hour make for a pleasant, relaxing environment for all. A $10 souvenir beer glass secures eight four-ounce tasting tickets for visitors ages 21+.

5: Enjoy ATHENS ATTRACTIONS & TOURS

Did you know? Athens is home to Georgia's official state museum of art and the official state botanical garden. The Georgia Museum of Art, located on UGA's East Campus, is home to a permanent collection of more than 9,000 works of art as well as a variety of traveling exhibitions and is open to the public every day except Mondays. The 313-acre State Botanical Garden of Georgia is open seven days a week and is the perfect place to have a picnic, take a walk on miles of nature trails, or participate in an interesting lecture, class, or hike. Neither of these attractions  have an admission fee but do accept donations.

For visitors interested in learning about the historical components of Athens, guided tours are available. The Classic City Tour of Athens is offered daily through the Athens Welcome Center, along with free self-guided brochures/maps, audio tours, and pod tours. Details can be found at here.
 

Athens Food Tours are a delicious and exciting option for those wanting to learn about and taste local and regional cuisine. Lastly, the self-guided Athens Music History Walking Tour focuses on the history of Athens music and the locations that made the music scene into such a success. The tour brochure is available at the Athens Welcome Center or online.

This fall, visitors should expect much more from Athens, Georgia than just a good football game. With the beautiful downtown, award-winning food, beer, and music, and interesting cultural elements, the Top Five Things To Do in Athens on a football weekend may require a second trip! For information on last-minute hotel availability, parking, tailgating, plus an event calendar and special deals, click here or call the Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau at 706-357-4430.

Athens This Weekend: March 15 - 17

St. Patrick's Day weekend is upon us, and if you're lucky enough to be in Athens, GA, you're lucky enough. With marvelous art exhibits, a puppy costume contest and the annual Athens Jewish Film Festival, this is one weekend you won't want to miss!

Exhibits at the Georgia Museum of Art

Unleash your inner artist this weekend as you explore the expansive galleries at the Georgia Museum of Art! With more than 9,000 works of art and a variety of traveling exhibits, there's something for everyone right here at the modern facility. See the beauty for yourself on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Can't make it this weekend? No worries! The Museum is open during the week as well. Be sure to visit the GMOA website for full gallery hours.

Recyla-Bull Terriers Egghead Easter

Terrapin Brewery is helping raise money for the Recycla-Bull Terrier Rescue Shelter! Your puppies will love it as they are offering Canine Good Citizen testing, an Easter Egg Hunt, a doggie costume contest and more! Pint glasses will start at $10 and donations are encouraged. We hope to see you and your furry friends there!

Athens Jewish Film Festival

The Athens Jewish Film Festival is proud to present quality Jewish films to the community while facilitating in-depth cultural discussions. This year's festival will kick off Saturday night at 7 p.m. with a Gala at the Georgia Museum of Art followed by four days of unique films presented at Cine in downtown Athens.

More events...

• Lyndon House Arts Center 38th Juried Exhibition, Every Thurs. - Sat. through May 4
• Sandy Creek Park Monthly Fishing Contest, recurring daily 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.
• Zoo Exhibit at Bear Hollow Zoo, Sat. 1 - 4 p.m.  

Want a complete list of all upcoming activities going on in Athens? Explore our event calendar at Visit Athens, Georgia. Join the mailing list to stay in the loop about exciting events going on in the Classic City!

Spend Valentine's Day in Athens, Georgia

Athens' unique and charming culture provides the perfect romantic setting for you and your Valentine! Witness the Classic City come to life through an array of entertainment, fine dining and first-rate accommodations. Athens, Georgia will provide you and your loved one with unforgettable memories and a one-of-a-time Valentine's Day experience. We're not only one of the most exciting Valentine's getaway in Georgia, but also one of the best values around!

A Night on the Town

For those looking to make one call to take care of every romantic detail, the Foundry Park Inn and Spa has again come through for a Dinner and Evening with Jazz Legend Francine Reed.  Guests will enjoy a three-course dinner prepared by award-winning chef Steve Vining followed by a soothing jazz performance at The Melting Point. Couples seeking a luxurious getaway may even select an overnight deluxe package. Several ticket options range from the show-only price of $25 to the all-inclusive overnight package for $245 per couple. 

The Colonels Bed and Breakfast is one of Athens' finest overnight retreats. The grand antebellum mansion is offering a romantic two-day getaway package that includes champagne or Belgian beer, fresh flowers and snacks in a lovely candlelight setting. Couples may start their morning with a "Tete a Tete Breakfast" with the Colonel's finest Wedgwood china, Bohemian crystal and French Chateau silverware. The romantic getaway package is $500 per couple for the weekend of February 14 - 17.  

Check into bliss for a romantic "Day after Valentine's Day" retreat at Hotel Indigo. The luxury hotel is offering a special holiday package, which includes one night of accommodations and two general admission tickets to the exclusive Songwriters in the Round concert. The show will feature Nashville Hall of Fame Songwriters Mike Dekle, Pat Alger, Byron Hill and Wayland Holyfield. This special Valentine's package is $199 per couple and will begin on Friday, February 15 as early as 3 p.m. 

Couples seeking a luxurious getaway may enjoy the Valentine's Romance Package at the Hilton Garden Inn. Upon arrival, guests will enjoy in-room sparkling wine or cider and access to the hotel's fitness center, pool and whirlpool. Couples will also enjoy a full breakfast for two in the hotel's designated restaurant. If dinner is preferred, couples may even exchange their breakfast for a special dinner discount. Late check-out is also available upon request. 

Entertainment

What could be more romantic than an evening movie with your sweetheart? This Valentine's Day, the Georgia Museum of Art will screen the classic 1953 film, Roman Holiday. The film follows an American reporter as he escorts a runaway princess through Rome. Before and after the film, couples can decorate valentines and place them by their favorite works of art in the museum's collection. The most popular valentines will be shared via the museum's social media channels. The event will begin at 7 p.m. and admission is free. Parking is also free after 5 p.m. 

Couples can let loose and  enjoy live music while experiencing a great meal at Buffalo's Cafe. On Thursday, February 14, David Prince returns to perform couples' favorite love songs. There will be a Prix Fixe menu available featuring 3 courses for $30 per couple, as well as Buffalo's full menu and beverage services. The event will be from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and admission is $8 per person. On Friday, February 15, couples can enjoy the annual Elvis Valentine's Day Show, starring Chris Shuppe as Elvis. Both Prix Fixe menu and full menus will be available, along with a full bar service in the Big Back Room. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. 

  

Merle Haggard will perform at The Classic Center Theatre on February 14. Known as the godfather of country music, Haggard is sure to put on a fun show for Athens couples. Admission is $52 for pit seats and $45 for all other seats. Show begins at 7:30 p.m.

Couples can dance the night away on February 14 with the revolutionary sounds of Papadosio at the Georgia Theatre. Melding progressive rock with psychedelia, folk with electronica, and dance music with jam, Papadosio has amassed a dedicated following of thousands of individuals. Doors open at 8 p.m., and the band will perform at 10:15 p.m. Tickets are $10. 

For a special day-after-Valentine's-Day event, couples may enjoy the music of Jonathan Richman at the 40 Watt. Featuring Tommy Larkins on the drums, this performance includes guileless honesty and playfully catchy compositions. Doors open at 8 p.m. on February 15, and the show will begin at 9:00 p.m. Tickets are $12. 

Fine Dining

  

Athens is definitely making a name for itself on the dining scene. Talented chefs take pride in locally-sourced ingredients to craft amazing plates and they'll be bringing out all the stops for Valentine's.

Heirloom Cafe is offering a variety of romantic dining options the week of Valentine's Day. For an early celebration. couples can attend the Heirloom Tuesday Tasting on February 12 at 6 p.m. The tasting will feature five "Romantic Red" wines for only $15. On Valentine's Day itself, Heirloom will offer an intimate Prix Fixe dinner with a la carte options available at the bar. 

Couples can enjoy a romantic evening dinner at Athens famous Five & Ten. Owned by award-winning author and Top Chef judge Hugh Acheson, the restaurant will feature a variety of delicious dinner options, ranging from poached Maine lobster to dry-aged ribeye. The Valentine's special will cost $75 for food and $35 for wine pairings. 

The National will be serving an elegant three-course Prix Fixe meal on Thursday, February 14. The National is known for its Mediterranean inspired food and wine, while providing a casual neighborhood gathering spot reminiscent of European bars and cafés. A variety of choices will be offered for each course, including a decadent dessert. Tickets will be $50 per person.  

Why pick just one Athens restaurant, when you can taste over 50?  True foodies won't want to miss Taste of Athens, on Sunday, February 17, makes for a wonderful way to round out Valentine's weekend. Over 50 local restaurants will have food samples and wine and beer tastings; the event also features live music and a silent auction. Taste of Athens weekend benefits Community Connection of Northeast Georgia. Admission is $50 presale/$60 day of event for general admission and VIP tickets are $80 presale/$90 day of event. More details are provided at www.tasteofathens.com.

Local Gifts  

     

Athens' artisans make it easy to find unique and one-of-a-kind gifts. Bee Natural is offering special Honeypot luminaries featuring a plethora of flowers and carvings. To sweeten the deal for Valentine's Day, customers will receive a free 12 ounce bottle of North Georgia wildflower honey and an extra tealight candle refill with every order between now and February 14. To place a Honeypot order, visit www.beenatural.com and enter "FREE HONEY" in the comments section on the shopping cart check-out page. Orders may also be placed at 706-354-0645.

Travel Information

The Athens Welcome Center is open daily to provide maps, brochures, self-guided tours, and visitor information. Guided bus tours of historic Athens depart daily from the Welcome Center at 2 p.m. For more information on a Valentine's Day getaway to Athens, Georgia, contact the Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau at 706-357-4430, or visit www.visitathensga.com/valentine. 

Athens This Weekend: January 25 - 27

Another weekend is upon us, and boy is it a cold one! Stay warm and entertained this weekend as you explore all that Athens, Georgia has to offer. With a variety of art exhibits and thrilling aerial dance performances, there's something for everyone here in the Classic City!

Exhibits at the Georgia Museum of Art

Unleash your inner artist this weekend as you explore the expansive galleries at the Georgia Museum of Art! These exhibits highlight a variety of countries, ranging from sub-Saharan Africa to the Soviet Union. See the beauty for yourself on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Can't make it this weekend? No worries! The Museum is open during the week as well. Be sure to visit the GMOA website for full gallery hours.
 

Canopy Aerial Dance 

Canopy Dance Studios presents an aerial performance that's both thrilling and family-friendly. Featuring dancers from right here in Athens, Georgia, this annual performance incorporates trapeze, fabrics and other invented flying apparatus that are sure to impress! And the best part? There are four shows over the weekend to fit even the busiest of schedules: 8 p.m. Friday, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, 4 p.m. Sunday. Don't miss out on this exciting local performance!

Venice Baroque Orchestra 

Europe has officiatelly made its way to Athens, Georgia! The Venice Baroque Orchestra is one of Europe’s premier ensembles devoted to to period instrument performance--and trust us, you don't want to miss this rare Classic City show! In fact, after an appearance at the National Gallery of Art, the Washington Post praised the group’s “percolating energy and lithe, silvery tone.” Enjoy the music for yourself this Sunday at 3 p.m.

More events...

Terrapin Brewery Tours- every Wed. - Sat., 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Bear Hollow Zoo Open House, Sat., 1-4 p.m.

Meet a Veteran Food Journalist, book signing at Avid Bookshop, Sat. 4 - 5 p.m.

Want a complete list of all upcoming activites going on in Athens? Explore our event calendar at Visit Athens, Georgia. Join the mailing list to stay in the loop about exciting events going on in the Classic City!

Spotlight on the Arts at UGA

Dance. Music. Literature. Painting. Poetry. Cinema.

You'll find it all during the the "Spotlight on the Arts" festival, hosted by the University of Georgia! Over a nine-day period, more than fifty performing and visual arts events will take place in Athens, Georgia to showcase the wide variety of creative talent from inside and outside our community!

Here's a rundown of the "don't miss" events of the series!

Monday, November 5th:

• The large-scale mural, Doors, tracing the modern political history of Georgia is now on display in the Richard B. Russell Special Collection Library. The program at 5:30 p.m. will feature presentations by library curators and the artist, retired UGA Art professor Art Rosenbaum. 

Tuesday, November 6th:

• In honor of Election Day, members of Demosthenian Literary Society will re-enact classic campaign speeches in the lobby of the Russell Library at noon. 

• At 12:30 p.m., head to Memorial Hall Ballroom for an open Waltz and Swing class, sponsored by the UGA Dance Department. 
• Tuesday night at 8:00 p.m., Athens welcomes world-renowned musical phenomenon Blue Man Group as part of the Classic Center's Broadway Entertainment Series. The Blue Men use the stage to entertain with a combination of theatrics and performance art! Acclaimed by the New York Times as "one of the most delightful performance pieces ever staged," this is one you certainly don't want to miss!

Wednesday, November 7th

• UGA Trombone Ensemble and Choir perform at 6 p.m. in Ramsey Hall at the Performing Arts Center on UGA's East Campus.
• Somebodies, a locally produced feature film will be premiered with a Q and A to follow by writer/director Hadjii and co-star Kaira Akita. The film begins at 7 p.m. at Cine on W. Hancock Street. 
• The Blue Man Group concludes their two-night run in Athens with an 8 p.m. show!

Thursday, November 8th

•  Class of 1989 UGA alumnus, U.S. Poet Laureate and Pulitzer Prize winner Natasha Trethewey will present readings and remarks at UGA Chapel. The Charter Lecture begins at 2 p.m. with a reception to follow at Demosthenian Hall.
• Chakaia Booker will present a lecture in conjunction with the exhibition of her work Defiant Beauty, currently on display in the Jane and Harry Wilson Sculpture Garden at the Georgia Museum of Art. 5:30 reception, 6:30 lecture in the Griffith Auditorium at the Georgia Museum of Art.
• Student Night at the Georgia Museum of Art with tours, food and DIY projects from 8-11 p.m.

Friday, November 9th

• World-renowned banjo player Bela Fleck and the Marcus Roberts Trio perform at the Hodgson Hall in the Performing Arts Center on East Campus.
• University Theatre: The Darker Face of Earth by former Poet Laureate Rita Dove at the Fine Arts Theatre combines the Greek Oedipus myth with the reality of slavery. See it Thursday, Friday, or Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Saturday, November 10th

• Spend the morning at GMOA; It's Family Day!
• Young Choreographers Series Senior Concert at 8 p.m. features senior Dance majors culmination of choreographic works

Sunday, November 11th

• Don't miss the final performance of The Darker Face of Earth at the Theatre in the Fine Arts Building at 2 p.m.!
• Guests are invited to the Georgia Museum of Art for a Spotlight Tour of the permanent collections from 3-4 p.m.; meet in the GMOA lobby!

Enjoy the Spotlight!!!

All tickets for events requiring admission are available at www.pac.uga.edu. 

For a complete look at times, dates and more information about Spotlight on the Arts, http://arts.uga.edu/about/schedule.

Museum Mix @ GMOA

Wednesday night October 24, The Georgia Museum of Art hosted Museum Mix, a spectacular event designed to celebrate the arts in a casual setting. From 8 to midnight, guests danced, mingled, and explored the exhibits currently featured in the galleries.

One of my closest friends is a volunteer docent at the Museum and I always enjoy attending their events. The University and Athens are lucky to have such a widely respected institution to celebrate and enjoy!

Guests were welcomed with complimentary beverages and hors d’ouvres from Earth Fare. The dips were a hit! Outside, people danced surrounded by the Defiant Beauty: The Work of Chakaia Booker sculptures created from recycled materials.  It was unlike any event I’d ever attended. The idea of laughing and dancing at a museum may seem strange, but art is about enjoying life in all its forms! GMOA definitely understands that idea.

My favorite exhibit on display were the polyester resin sculptures in the De Wain Valentine: Human Scale. These huge rounded pieces were an incredible feat of artistic creation; some measured eight feet tall! I just stood in the gallery for about fifteen minutes in awe.The next Museum Mix is scheduled for April 25, but do yourself a favor and visit GMOA soon! 

Check out our website for more information about the Georgia Museum of Art, including event listings and visiting hours. 

Athens This Weekend: September 7-9

As the Bulldogs head to Missouri for their first game in SEC play, things are getting really exciting in Athens, GA!! There won't be any big crowds and football traffic this weekend, so make sure you get out and explore the Classic City! There are tons of great art events taking place, including the Athens Aerial Arts Weekend, Family Day at the Georgia Museum of Art and the final weekend of ATHICA Emerges V: The Synthetic Mind.

             1. Athens Aerial Arts Weekend

 

Athens has incredibly advanced programs involving aerial arts like Leap Flying Trapeze, Canopy Studio AerialDance, and Athens Vertical Pole Dance Academy. We’re so fortunate to have such great attractions enriching our arts scene and now, they’re turning to you! This weekend, you have the chance to test your ability on the trapeze and much more! The workshops and classes this weekend are designed specifically for beginners, so there’s no reason to stay on the ground! Events begin Friday evening and continue through Saturday afternoon. Sign up for a weekend in the air!

2. ATHICA Emerges V: The Synthetic Mind

The Athens Institute for Contemporary Art will be exhibiting ATHICA Emerges V: The Synthetic Mind for the last time on Sunday. The collection opened earlier this summer to high acclaim and praise for nine artists participating and their works, which synthesize perception and awareness from a variety of approaches. On Saturday and the final day Sunday, they’ll be open from 1-6 p.m. Admission is free!
 

3. Family Day at Georgia Museum of Art

 In addition to Athens’ residents, students and visitors, the Georgia Museum of Art works diligently to support children’s creativity. They host so many great events for kids and this Saturday will be another to add to the list!! Inspired by the work of renowned artist Chakaia Booker, whose work is currently on display at GMOA, kids will be creating sculptures out of recycled materials. It's the perfect example of turning trash into treasure! The activities start at 10 a.m. but make sure you see all the other exhibits in the museum, too!

Other events in Athens, GA: 

• "The Board Room" Skateboard Auction @ The Gallery at Hotel Indigo, Sunday 4 p.m. 
• Ready, Set, Vote! Film Screening: "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" @ the Special Collections Library 
• Murder at the Howard Johnson's Play @ the Morton Theatre
• Classic City Roller Girls vs. Charlotte @ Athens Arena
• UGA Heroes Bulldog Brawl @ Georgia Theatre

Want a complete list of all upcoming activities and goings-on in Athens? Check out our event calendar at Visit Athens, Georgia.
  
Join the mailing list to stay in the loop about exciting events going on in the Classic City!

Athens This Weekend: August 10-12

This weekend in Athens, Georgia is shaping up to be an exciting one! Head out to the Classic City with family and friends to enjoy great concerts, art exhibits, and much more. Take a look at these upcoming events to get a jump start on planning your weekend activities!

1. Willie Nelson & Family

Willie Nelson is coming to the Classic City Theatre, Friday, August 10, at 8 p.m. As a songwriter and performer, Nelson has playhttp://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9071717791675781078#editor/target=post;postID=9120733963713209492ed a vital role in country music with his cross-over style. He has been an American popular culture fixture since rising to fame in the '70s, and in more recent years, has reached iconic status. This is sure to be a fantastic show, and a wonderful evening spent in Athens!

2. We Miss You, Mikey

The Georgia Theatre will host We Miss You, Mikey, an evening celebration of the life of Michael Houser, the founder and original lead guitarist of Athens' own, Widespread Panic. The event will be held Friday, August 10 at 8 p.m. A number of Athens bands and special friends will grace the Georgia Theatre stage as they celebrate the 10th anniversary of his death by honoring the life and musician of this extraordinary musician. Admission is $38.50, and all proceeds will benefit The Michael Houser Music Fun at Athens Academy.

3. Spotlight Tour at GMOA
This Sunday, August 13, the Georgia Museum of Art will host a Spotlight Tour from 3 to 4 p.m. Docents will meet participants in the lobby of the museum, and take them on a guided tour of highlights from the museum's permanent collection. Spend a Sunday afternoon enjoying beautiful art at GMOA!




Be sure to check out our event calendar at Visit Athens, Georgia for a complete list of exciting events and activities going on in the Classic City!

Join our mailing list to stay up-to-date on all that's going on in Athens, Georgia!

What do you have planned for this weekend in Athens, Georgia?

Athens This Weekend: June 1-3

The weekend is almost here! Come spend a relaxing weekend with friends and family in Athens, Georgia. With so many great activities and events to attend, we're sure your weekend in the Classic City will be more than enjoyable! Here are a few events that are taking place this weekend. 

1. Weekend Exhibits at the Georgia Museum of Art 

Take an afternoon this weekend to head out to The Georgia Museum of Art to experience the great variety exhibits on display! Ranging from traditional Southern folk art, to brilliant pieces inspired by paintings from the Northern Renaissance era, viewing the many exhibits offered right now is a great way to spend a quiet summer afternoon. The GMOA is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 1-5 p.m. General admission is free, with a suggested donation of $3.  

2. Zoo Open Exhibit Hall at Bear Hollow Zoo

Bring the family out to the Bear Hollow Zoo at Memorial Park on Saturday afternoon from 1-4 p.m., when Bear Hollow opens it exhibit hall to the public. Come out for free to experience the various reptiles, amphibians, and fish used in the zoo's programs!

3. Beer Bingo Craft Beer Night

Aromas Craft Beer & Wine Bar, located in Five Points, is hosting two bingo sessions on Sunday afternoon, from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Taste 12 craft beers and try and match each beer to a styles list. Great prizes from t-shirts to brewery tour passes, to tickets to the Atlanta Cask Ale Tasting and classic City Brew Fest will be given to the top scorers of the evening! Admission is $18.50 a person, and limited to 20 participants per session.Come spend an afternoon tasting great beer in Aroma's relaxed and romantic setting!

These are just a few of the many exciting events happening in Athens,GA. Hopefully you've found something that strikes your fancy! Be sure to check out our Visit Athens, GA calendar for a full list of even more events and activities!

Join our mailing list to stay in the know about what's upcoming in Athens!

What events are you planning to attend with your family this weekend?

Athens This Weekend: July 15-17

The summer heat has been a huge and steady companion to all venturing outdoors in Athens, GA these last couple of weeks- greeting all who exit the relief of air conditioning with an enthusiastic, all-consuming hug of humidity. But our good friend, Sweltering Heat, will be giving us some much needed space this weekend in Athens, GA, so let's make the most of it! With a varied calendar of options for all ages, plan on getting out and about for multiple weekend events!

1) Spend your Saturday morning in the midst of renewed classical antiquity and in the company of the little ones you love most at the Georgia Museum of Art Family Day event running from 10:00 a.m. to noon. The Family Day of July 16th will feature the Kress Collection, which includes 12 Italian Renaissance paintings donated in 1961 by the Samuel H. Kress Foundation. The valued collection, which includes pieces from as far back as the 14th and 17th century, has been integral to the museum's educational function as university students, faculty, and art historians from all over the world come to study the works. The Family Day activities will include refreshments and the crafting of Renaissance-inspired picture frames in the first-floor classroom following an educational tour of the Kress Collection. This highly informative and engaging Family Day event at the Georgia Museum of Art will entertain parents and kids alike, so come out and see how you and your family will be inspired! For more information on this event, visit out calendar listing.

2) The museum isn't the only place to enjoy displays of inspired cultural expression in Athens, Ga this weekend- The Rialto Room will feature the latest segment of their "Go Green" Series benefitting the Oconee River Land Trust- A Songwriters in the Round event is set to take place this Friday night, July 15, beginning at 8:00 p.m. The evening will feature songwriters of a Southern persuasion as all musicians fall under the country genre. Some past credits of the performers include: Mike Dekle, writer of hits "Scarlett Fever" and "Someone Must Feel Like a Fool Tonight" by Kenny Rogers;  Will Nance, writer of #1 Billboard hit "She's Everything" for Brad Paisley; John Ford Coley, writer and performer of hits "Love is the Answer," "Gone Too Far," and "Sad To Belong"; Byron Hill, writer of classics such as "Fool Hearted Money" by George Strait and many others. This unique and intimate event could only be made better by making it last all night- reserve a room for the night at Hotel Indigo- offering a special deal of one standard room and 2 concert tickets for $145.00. Single tickets are on sale for $15 here. Come escape for a unique evening at the Rialto Room this Friday night! For more information on this event, visit our calendar listing.

3) Connect with the Athens community through the delicious shared experience of enjoying some local food at events sponsored by the Taste Your Place Local Food Extravaganza, a couple of which will take place this Saturday and Sunday. This two week event, running from July 9 - 21, is sponsored by P.L.A.C.E., an Athens non-profit committed to maintaining and fostering the growth of a healthy, well-connected local food culture, seeking to unite the Athens community in an appreciation of good food from local vendors.  The Taste Your Pie Contest event will take place this Saturday at the Athens Farmers Market around 10:00 a.m. Contest entry is open to all who provide $5, a pie and the recipe, contest tasting of all pies costs only $5 as well. Prizes will be awarded to the most delectable pies. On Sunday from 1:00 - 8:00 p.m., a driving tour of 3 local farms will take place around Athens, seats can be reserved for $30 each- contact Amanda Tedrow (atedrow@uga.edu) to save your spot. For more information about past and upcoming Taste Your Place events, visit our event listing.

These three fantastic events are just the start of your fantastic weekend in Athens, GA- check out some other notable events taking place:

• View and partake in the creation of fairy homes in a Fairy House Workshop, Friday 6:00 - 8:30 p.m., at the State Botanical Garden.  

• Hear Native American Folk Tales at the ACC Library, Friday at 2:30 p.m., in a storytelling concert of Cherokee legends.

• Kayak or Canoe through Lake Chapman by the moonlight during Full Moon Paddles at Sandy Creek Park, Friday or Saturday from 9:00- 11:00 p.m.

Don't stop here--visit our weekend calendar for an even more comprehensive guide to this weekends events! Take advantage of the brief relief from the heat this weekend, get out and enjoy summer in Athens, GA!