Spotlight on the Arts at UGA, Nov. 7-15

It's time to celebrate the arts! Starting next week, the UGA Arts Council will host a special event at the University of Georgia. The 2013 Spotlight on the Arts Festival is bringing over 50 events to the Athens area from November 7 - 15. Each day of the nine-day festival will feature a wide selection of performances, exhibitions, literary events, films, discussions on the arts and so much more! Events will be going on continuously throughout the festival, and with so many different arts on display there is sure to be something to suit every taste! Check out the festival schedule for a complete list of events, times, and additional information.

Kicking off the Spotlight on the Arts Festival on November 7th, audiences are in for quite a treat when the comedy show, Two Man Group, comes to The Classic Center. Fans of the Emmy-nominated improvisational comedy show Whose Line Is It Anyway? will be able to witness first-hand the amazing improv abilities of two of its stars, Colin Mocherie and Brad Sherwood. Seize the opportunity to enjoy the hilarity of the acclaimed comedy duo! The show begins at 8 p.m. and is a ticketed event. 

The University Theatre's production of Pride and Prejudice was first performed at the University in 1941, when the Fine Arts Building hosted a five-day festival. Spotlight on the Arts, almost twice that long, is offering several additional performances of Jane Austen's famous novel. Opening night of the play is November 7th at 8 p.m., and then additional performances will take place on November 8th, 10th, and 13-15th. Don't miss out on seeing this beautiful take on the literary masterpiece in the UGA Fine Arts Theatre! Check the Spotlight on the Arts schedule for times and information on how to get tickets. 

Come watch as UGA Opera Theatre joins forces with the Symphony Orchestra led by Mark Cedel to catch the beautiful concert version of Carmen. Under the direction of Frederick Burchinal, audiences will have two nights to watch as Bizet's masterpiece is brought to vibrant life. An open dress rehearsal will be hosted, for a discounted price, on November 13th, with the full concert version performance on November 14th. Both nights are ticketed events and prices and times can be found here. 

On November 15th, audiences are in for a treat as Emmy- and Tony-award winning actor Hal Holbrook brings his long-running one-man show Mark Twain Tonight! to the stage at the UGA Performing Arts Center. For nearly 50 years, the Oscar-nominee has been highlighting the unique humor and wit of the American icon Mark Twain, and is now gracing the stage and closing out the last night of the festival. This special performance begins at 8 p.m. and is a ticketed event.  

Tickets for the ticketed events are available through the UGA Performing Arts Center and can by found at pac.uga.edu, or through calling the box office at 706-542-4400. UGA students receive discounts for most ticketed events, and many free events and activities will be offered throughout the festival. 

The Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau is your source for all events going on in the Athens area. For more information on the Spotlight on the Arts Festival, or any other fall events, check out visitathensga.com. 

Rock the Vote for Athens and UGA!

Every week in the fall, the luckiest people on Earth travel to Athens, GA and enjoy a marvolous weekend full of football, food and festivity. We all know that Athens is the best college football town in the county through our own experiences and visits to other college towns. Now, it's our turn to speak up!  There are several contests taking places through the next few weeks, giving Athens and UGA fans the opportunity to share how much we love our town with the world! With your help, we can land atop "Best of" lists at USA Today, Southern Living, and get Kathie Lee and Hoda to come for a visit! Take a few minutes and vote/tweet support for the three contests below!!

1. USA Today's "Best College Football Town"

 From the official website:
"Cast your vote by Sept. 20 in the survey window (click "done" when you've made your choice). You also can vote via Twitter: Make sure your tweet includes the town you're voting for, plus @usatodaytravel and #bestcftown (e.g. I vote for Athens! @usatodaytravel #bestcftown). Please also leave a comment below telling readers why your favorite deserves the crown."

VOTE NOW!

2. Katie Lee and Hoda's College Challenge

From the official website:
"Submit a tweet that includes your college’s name and a description of why your college has the most school spirit and deserves a visit from The TODAY Show. You will also need to include the hashtag “#KLGandHodaU”. You may include photos or videos with your Tweet. Your Tweet and any attached videos or photos will be referred to herein as a “Statement”. Your Statement should include #KLGandHodaU"
They'll choose about six finalists based on the reponses and the voting will then be open to the public!

See more details!

3. Southern Living's "The South's Best Tailgate"

Georgia's steadily climbing the charts in Southern Living's contest! Just click the University of Georgia helmet. The next page will ask you to submit your email and a security code. You can vote once a day until October 1st, so keep going back!!! Plus, you have the chance to win $2,500. Sounds like a great tailgate!!

VOTE NOW!

Comment on this post and let us know which contests you participated in! It's the least we can do with all the happiness the Bulldogs give loyal fans throughout the year.

GO DAWGS!

Athens This Weekend Aug 24-26

Every weekend is a great weekend in Athens, GA and this one is no exception! If you want to explore the great outdoors, you can do it. Want to see some of the best bluegrass, soul and country bands in the area? Look no further than the Classic City for amazing events, attractions, and things to do. 

1. Concerts at the Georgia Theatre

The Drive-By Truckers will take stage at the Georgia Theatre on Thursday and Friday night at 8 p.m. Since their last show in Athens, DBT released their newest album "Go-Go Boots" and have received acclaim all over the country! We're so happy to have them back home! Tickets are sold out for Friday night, but you still have a chance for Thursday night. This is one you won't want to miss.

On Saturday at 8 p.m., bluegrass group The Packway Handle Band will headline another night showcasing Athens' musical prowess. Packway Handle is known for their performance style of "gather around the mic" coupled with powerful 4-part harmonies. Folk/Americana bands The Corduroy Road and Cicada Rhythm will open on Saturday night.

These shows will make for a great weekend on the corner of Lumpkin & Clayton!

2. Nighttime Paddle 

Ever spent an evening on the lake during a full moon? You'll get your chance this weekend at Sandy Creek Park! One of Sandy Creek's best attractions, Lake Chapman will be open from 9-11 p.m. for visitors and residents alike to canoe or kayak on the lake. 

Registration is required, so call 706-613-3631 and reserve your spot on the lake! This program is designed for ages 12+. Can't make it this Friday? Don't worry! The Park will host  more Nighttime Paddles every two weeks through the end of October.  

 3. UGA Women's Volleyball Benson Hospitality Bulldog Invitational

A lot of you out there are experiencing post-Olympic depression. It's tough, but you may not have to wait until 2016 to feel that gut-wrenching, heart-stopping excitement from London. This weekend, the best women's volleyball players in the region from UGA, Georgia State, Georgia Southern and Troy University will compete international play against each other and Slovenian National Team at the Ramsey Center. Games start at 1 p.m. on Friday (UGA plays at 7 p.m.) and continue through Sunday afternoon. There may not be a gold medal ceremony at the end of the weekend, but we promise you'll have fun!



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: February 24-26

There is so much to do this weekend in Athens! Whether you want to get outdoors and enjoy the weather with the family, attend musical events, or get ideas at the home and garden show, Athens, GA has it all!

1. Athens Home and Garden Show

With Spring approaching,  the spring cleaning and remodeling will soon begin! The Athens Area Home Builders Association's annual Home & Garden Show is the premier event for anyone considering remodeling their home, landscaping their yard or even building or buying their dream home. This event will take place at the Classic Center this Saturday from 10-5 p.m., and Sunday from Noon-5 p.m.

2. Menopause the Musical

Join Our Sisterhood! Four women at a lingerie sale with nothing in common but a black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, and more! This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the '60s, '70s and '80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! See what millions of women worldwide have been laughing about for over 10 years! The show will take place at the Classic Center Theatre at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday; and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets range from only $29-$45. You can purchase your ticket online at: http://www.classiccenter.com/theatre/theatre/theatre.html.

3. The 8th Annual Foundry Park Inn & Spa Bridal Show and Tasting

Planning a wedding? Help those wedding bells ring a little easier with this exciting event taking place in Athens,Georgia! Over 20 of northeast Georgia’s premium wedding vendors will be on hand to plan your big day including: photographers, florists, formal wear, wedding planners, pastry chefs, entertainment, transportation companies and more! Sample the cuisine of our award winning culinary team while perusing the latest bridal fashions & decor for the entire wedding party. This event will take place on Sunday from 2-5 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance, and $12 at the door.

These are only a few of the exciting events taking place in Athens,GA this weekend. Here are a few more ideas that you can hopefully squeeze into your weekend plans! 

• Friday- Sunday: UGA Men's Baseball vs. Winthrop. Come support the Diamond Dogs as they take on the visiting team at Foley Field, in the heart of UGA's South Campus in Athens,GA. The game will be at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, and 1:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
• Friday:  The Chieftains at the Classic Center Theatre.The Chieftans are the best known traditional Irish band in the world. The show will be at 8:00 p.m. 
• Saturday: Journey Through the Stars for Families at Sandy Creek Nature Center.Come see the planetarium program in the new Sky Center. We will journey through the night sky, exploring the great beyond.This event will be from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. and will be $7 for ACC families, and $10 for non- residents. This will be a fascinating experience for the entire family!

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

To stay in the know about what's coming up in Athens, join our mailing list!

What are your plans this weekend in Athens,GA?

Athens This Weekend: February 10-12

It's finally the weekend! After a long week, I know I am ready for an exciting and eventful weekend, and I'm sure you are too! Luckily, there are so many exciting events taking place this weekend in Athens,GA. Get your planners ready, because the Classic City will guarantee you a great time!

1. Original Tribute to the Blues Brothers 

The Classic Center Theatre presents the legendary Original Tribute to the Blues Brothers! Jake and Elwood Blues will be accompanied by the sassy Bluettes to perform all of your favorite songs including, "Everybody," "Shake Ya Tail Feather," "Sweet Home Chicago," "Think," "Respect," "Gimme Some Loving," along with so many more. So don the sunglasses, dig out your best pork pie hat, and buff up those dancing shows for a night of the best music, moves, and comedy! The show will be Friday, February 10, at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale now, and prices range from $9-$65.

2. Athens Kids Expo

Athens Kids Expo is a fundraising event benefiting the Wee Read Program of United Way of Northeast Georgia. This event is perfect for a family-fun day! Your children will be beyond excited when they hear what this event has to offer. The Athens Kids Expo will feature fabulous entertainment, face painting, bounce houses, balloon artists, a petting zoo, and more! There will be products and services for the entire family including educational products, toys and hobbies, health care services and products, cosmetics, jewelry, apparel, music and entertainment, arts and crafts, safety products and services, schools and daycare services, summer camps, and much more. Whew! This exciting event will be taking place Saturday, February 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. So bring out the entire family and enjoy a fun-filled day! 

3.UGA Women's Softball Red & Black Showcase

The University of Georgia's Softball Team will open its 2012 season by hosting the Fifth-Annual Red & Black Showcase this weekend at Jack Turner Stadium! The first game will be against Army on Friday, February 10, at 7:00 p.m. You can enjoy additional games throughout the weekend as well vs. Utah State, St. John's, Campbell, and North Carolina State. So come out and support Georgia Softball for another exciting season! 

Additional Events taking place in Athens,GA:

• Bring the family out to the "Owl Prowl" Friday, February 10 from 6:30-8:00 a.m., for an evening hike. You will search for the owl that inhabit the woods of Athens, GA, while learning about these fascinating feathered nocturnal animals. This event will take place at the Sandy Creek Nature Center.
• Grains of Sand will be performing at The Melting Point Friday, February 10, at 8:00 p.m. This band's desire is to keep the great music of the 60's and 70's around for everyone to enjoy-the young and old! Tickets are $10 in advance and will be $12 the day of the show. You can also reserve seating on the mezzanine level on a first-come first-serve basis. There will be tables of two available for $30 and tables of four available for $60. Come out and enjoy a night of fun, great music, and dancing! 
• Let the King romance you on Saturday, February 11, at 7:00 p.m. Buffalo's Southwest Cafe in Athens, GA,  will be featuring the Elvis-Burning Love Valentine's Show. Enjoy a romantic evening with delicious food from their full menu.
• The Senior Adults Sweetheart Prom will be Sunday, February 12, at 4:00 p.m. This romantic event will be held at Lay Park. Come and enjoy an evening of dancing, listening to soft music, socializing and light refreshments.This is guaranteed to be a good time!
These were just a few of the many exciting events happening in Athens,GA. Hopefully you've read something that will be of interest to you! Be sure to check out our Visit Athens, GA calendar for a full list of even more events and activities! 

To stay in the know about what's coming up in Athens, join our mailing list!

What are you looking forward to doing this weekend in Athens,GA?

A Scavenger Hunt from the Runway

Today's blog entry comes from guest contributor Macy Sirmans, who is preparing for a fun and potentially rewarding scavenger hunt on the UGA campus in Athens, Georgia on Tuesday, January 24th.  Though taking place on campus, this event is not only for students. If a non-student finds a gift before a student does, more power to 'em!
Rule #1:  You can't win if you don't play! 

Macy tells us all about it:

Last September, Vince Camuto at UGA made a name for itself on UGA's campus by engaging the student body in an extremely fashionable game of hide-and-go-seek by combining coveted designer merchandise with clues via social media.

Beginning on January 24th, the Vince Camuto at UGA team is excited to announce that the Campus Hunt is returning to Athens, GA! Prepare to scout and scrimmage for 30 delightful gifts that will be placed throughout academic buildings, lecture halls and on-campus parks. Hints and photos detailing gifts and their whereabouts will be posted on the Vince Camuto at UGA Facebook page immediately after they are hidden.If luck allows, you may just happen upon a bottle of perfume, pair of shoes or to-die-for leather handbag right outside of class.

Vince Camuto events scheduled for the rest of the Spring 2012 semester include opportunities to score job interview worthy attire, bridge the gap between fashion and dance, attend a runway show and, as always, snag numerous glamorous giveaways.

"Like" and monitor www.facebook.com/vincecamutouga to emerge victorious from the Campus Hunt and remain in-the-know about a designer's Athens, Georgia impact.

A recap of last semester's Campus Hunt: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoxR6nvho_U

Gamedays in Athens, GA!

Bulldawg Nation -- are you looking forward to this weekend's big SEC matchup against Auburn?

 

For those of you who haven't yet experienced Gameday in Athens, or want to get geared up to return, we've put together a short video. Get a little taste of the fun, festivity, and Bulldog Nation pride when the Dawgs play at home.

 

It's a great experience, complete with

• hours of tailgating
• the actual game,
• post-game eating, and
• plenty of events and live music afterwards (as people celebrate either the team's victory or its great effort)

Keep your eyes out; you might just see a celebrity come out to join the fun! Athens is already a vibrant city, but on Gamedays, it seems like the Classic City is an explosion of excitement and enthusiasm. Check out the video, and make sure to make it out to Athens, GA for the real thing!

 

 

For more ideas and information on planning your football weekend in Athens, check out http://www.visitathensga.com/things-to-do/football-weekends/.

Looking Forward to a Fantastic Summer in Athens!

Dearest Athens, GA,

For the last 3 years, I have been happily wandering through your glorious streets and parks, excitedly immersing myself in your own unique culture of Southern charm, and well frankly, just generally falling in love with your every quirk. And during that time, we’ve gotten to know each other pretty well, but now that I’ll be taking on the P.R. and Social Media internship position for the Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau this summer, I think it’s time I properly introduce myself.

My name is Morgan Capps and I will be a senior at The University of Georgia in the fall, soon completing my studies in Psychology, Geography, and New Media. My unusual combination of studies allows me to explore a wide range of interests, a personal tendency that extends to my non-academic life as well. From hosting my own show on UGA’s student radio station, WUOG 90.5 fm, to acting in a production with Town & Gown Players, the local community theater, I am certainly no stranger to taking advantage of the awesome opportunities you have to offer, Athens. But even after 3 years here, I still constantly find myself discovering new places, people, and events existing throughout town.

I can think of no better way to spend the summer than by assisting Athens CVB in diligently seeking out and sharing information on the who, what, and where that combine to make life here so uniquely interesting. I genuinely cannot wait to provide information on your many wonderful restaurants, attractions, special events, and festivals. I promise to blog and otherwise report my many adventures, observations, and ideas, but I’ll need your help, Athens community- I want your feedback and suggestions. So don’t be shy, send me somewhere new and let me know what’s on your mind so we can make the most of this beautiful summer in Athens, GA.

Sincerely Yours,

Morgan Capps

The NEW Georgia Museum of Art

One of the most relaxing and enjoyable activities that I love is one that also makes me more cultured and appreciative of my world: strolling around museums. I love that it's laid back, quiet and a year-round experience that is always changing! For years, the Georgia Museum of Art has been top-notch, but the new addition makes a visit to the museum so much more of an event! Take a look at what Jenny Williams from the GMOA has to say about everything new:

The Georgia Museum of Art, located on the East Campus of the University of Georgia in Athens, Ga., has long offered its audiences a world-class art experience. As both an academic museum and the state’s official art museum, this treasure in Georgia's Historic Heartland serves not only the University of Georgia population, but also the owners of its permanent collection and the citizens of Georgia, through award-winning exhibitions, publications and programming.

A newly designed 16,000-square-foot expansion of the museum’s galleries by Gluckman Mayner Architects (New York) allows for continual display of works from the museum’s permanent collection. Visitors to the Georgia Museum of Art can now come back time after time not only to see temporary special exhibitions, but to visit old favorites from the permanent collection. Teachers can take advantage of the long-term display of important historical works and corresponding educational materials from the Louis T. Griffith Teacher Resource Center and development curricula that will remain pertinent year after year.

The experience continues in the new Jane and Harry Willson Sculpture Garden, which is dedicated to the display of works by women artists and provides visitors with a quiet spot to visit, eat lunch or meditate. Children and families will soon be able to unleash their creativity in a new interactive classroom, and scholars and students will have access to the Louis T. Griffith Library and the new Study Centers in the Humanities.

Experience the new Georgia Museum of Art!

Discussing Innovation in Athens

New Media: How Technology Influences America Politics

Yesterday I wandered over to The Chapel on the campus of The University of Georgia to check out another great program. It's always impressed me how many great speakers, panels, and conferences come through Athens, Georgia. The university hosted panelists Senator Saxby Chambliss, Senator Ben Nelson, talk show host Neal Boortz, and Grady School Dean Dr. Cully Clark. University of Georgia President Dr. Michael Adams introduced the speakers to a crowd of local business leaders, faculty, and students. Senator Chambliss (R-GA), who heads up the Committee on Agriculture, cited a study that ranked him among the worst in the Senate for the adoption of media and technology. He thought that extensive "emailing and blackberry-ing" should have been taken into consideration.

All of the panelists agreed that the media revolution that we are experiencing is here to stay and that privacy is no longer a luxury afforded to anyone. "There is no space that I'm in that is not subject to digital representation...[the audience] is there, it won't go away." explains Clark. He, as well as other teachers at UGA, have noticed a significant uptick in the number of students using multimedia tools in the classroom such as laptops, smart phones, and tablets. Students can instantly post classroom comments to online platforms for hundreds of their friends to read. Boortz tells the audience that "There are no personal conversations anymore". However, this "live-tweeting" does have positives. The ability to communicate instantaneously allows everyone to be a reporter, fact-checking to keep teachers and politicians honest.

In Athens, we're lucky to be able to draw such distinguished speakers and generate tons of public interest that keeps them coming back. Athens, Georgia is a city that is dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation. I hope that the city and the university will continue to invite speakers here, opening up the lines of communication between residents.

Want to dive into discussion or hear some great speakers around town? Check out the Athens-Clarke County Library for weekly lectures and workshops or check out the UGA Master Calendar for upcoming events.

Athens This Weekend: April 16 - 18

Friday, April 16:

• Abbey West Apartments presents Reality Tour 2010! Stop by for lots of free food, prizes, music, games, contests and a celebrity meet and greet. There will be a swimwear fashion show sponsored by b.swin and baskit as well as your chance to try out to become a reality TV celebrity! RSVP online to win prizes.

Saturday, April 17:

• The 21st Annual Boybutante Ball is a Broadway-style event at the 40 Watt featuring the talents of approximately 20 local and imported drag queens and kings. All performances and costumes will be set around the central theme of "Fairy Tales," and guests are encouraged to dress to the theme. All proceeds benefit AIDS Athens.

• Enjoy a picturesque tour of five lovely private homes and gardens at the 17th Annual Garden Tour of Athens! The tour features the private gardens of Magdalena Williams, Mary and Charlie Weiland, Patti and Charlie Burch, John Knowlton and Lee Epting. Your ticket is a brochure that includes a map and directions.

• The Classic Center presents The All-Star Comedy Jam featuring "Martin" sitcom star "Bruh Man from the 5th Floor (Reginald Ballard)," the amazingly funny Steve Brown (HBO Def Comedy Jam, Showtime at the Apollo,) and pharmacist by day and comedian by night, Lavar (Jamie Foxx's Laffapalooza, BET Comic View.) All hosted by Miss Sophia from Atlanta's V-103.

• Celebrate Terrapin's 8th Anniversary with a cask ale tent, live music and special beers. Expect an exciting cask ale tent with almost ten special Terrapin fixkins and live music from Timmi Conley, Kite to the Moon and Jango Monkey. Terrapin also just released the newest member of their Monster Beer Tour, Monk's Revenge.

Ongoing Events:

• Throw on your boots, grab your hat and head down to the Livestock Instructional Arena this weekend! UGA's Block and Bridle Club organizes the Great Southland Stampede Rodeo each year. Steeped in tradition as the ONLY all student-run PRCA rodeo in the country, it is a guaranteed two-and-a-half hours of slam-packed action.

• SpringSing Weekend 2010 is the second-annual two-day a cappalla music festival for cancer research and awareness. SpringSing uses the power of human voice to bring people together for one common cause, gathering nearly a dozen of the best college and professional a cappella groups, who donate their time and talents to charity.

• UGA Sports: Watch Georgia Softball take on Auburn, Women's Tennis take on Tennessee and cheer on UGA Track at the Spec Towns Invitational track and field home meet.

For a full calendar of spring events, please click here.

Athens this Weekend: April 9 - 11

This weekend in Athens is filled with art, athletics, culture, music and wine! Don't miss out on the great events and annual festivals the Classic City has to offer.

Friday, April 9:

• It's time to Celebrate the Arts! The Athens Area Arts Council presents the biggest fundraising event of the year, where material-world art meets the runway to support the artist-designed bus shelters. The celebration will be held at Hotel Indigo and will include a runway of wearable art featuring exotic creations from local and emerging artists. The event is free and open to the public, but VIP runway seats are on sale for $40.

Saturday, April 10:

• Georgia Football is back in action! Come get a preview of the great things that lay ahead for the 2010 Bulldogs at the G-day Spring Football Game! The game annually features the Bulldog team split into the Red and Black squads. Tickets can be ordered at 12:30 p.m. on the day of the game at Sanford Stadium Gates 2, 4, 6 and the Main Gate located below the Sanford Drive Bridge. Kick-off benefits Hope Haven and starts at 2 p.m.

• The 12th Annual International Street Festival, presented by UGA's International Student Organizations, will feature colorful cultural displays from around the world, traditional costumes, dances and international bands. Collect "Passport" Stamps, watch musical and dance performances, and participate in hands-on activities with your children. Door prizes and giveaways will be available from local businesses.

• Enjoy a cold one after the 2nd Annual Terrapin Beer 5K Plus One More Mile. The race begins at 3:30 p.m. and will end at the brewery with a tour. Only $25 to compete!

Sunday, April 11:

• The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra heads to Athens! The UGA Performing Arts Center presents this program which features two of Tchaikovsky's great masterpieces. Russian guest conductor Vasily Petrenko, pianist Barry Douglas, and the ASO will bring excitement to these melodic treats.

Ongoing Events:

• Calling all aficionados and novice wine lover alike! Athens Wine Weekend will be a treat for the senses featuring seminars with wine experts including Master Sommelier Brett Zimmerman, a Grand Tasting showcasing wines from around the world, and a gourmet seven-course meal with multiple wine pairings. The event benefits The Classic Center Cultural Foundation.

• This weekend presents the newest addition to the Bike MS cycling series in Georgia! Bike MS: Deloitte. Atlanta to Athens Ride is a two-day, fully-supported bicycle ride that will raise money to fight multiple sclerosis and help the Georgia Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

• Fashion, music, arts and fun - what else do you need for the perfect weekend in Athens? Don't miss blvd. Magazine's three-day fashion extravaganza, A Weekend Fashion Affair, showcasing local art and fashion with runway shows, music events and dance parties!

A Weekend Fashion Affair

Fashion, music, arts and fun - what else do you need for the perfect weekend in Athens? Don't miss blvd. Magazine's three-day fashion extravaganza this weekend, showcasing local art and fashion with runway shows, music events and dance parties!


Thursday: Start off your fashionable weekend with an evening of fashion, food, drinks, live music and beautiful scenery. The 2nd annual "blvd.'s House of Fashion" is a fashion show showcasing summer looks from local boutiques such as Rouge, George Gibson, Flaunt and Agora. Food and beverages will be provided as well as music by The Big Fundamentals and DJ Winston Parker. Festivities will begin at 6 p.m. at the Stan Mullins Garden located on 650 Pulaski St. Admission is only $8, and all proceeds benefit the Athens-Clarke Heritage Foundation.

Friday: The Athens Area Arts Council (AAAC) will host "Material World: Art Meets the Runway" from 7 to 11 p.m. at Hotel Indigo. This fashion show will feature textiles and wearable art from local designers as well as complimentary hors d'oeuvres from Athens area restaurants. Following the show, Sonny Got Blue will play in the Rialto Room. 50 percent of all bar sales benefits the AAAC. RSVP on Facebook!

Saturday: To wrap up the weekend, you are invited to dance the night away! UGA Style will host "Spring Scene," a FREE fashion party at Max Canada from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. with music provided by DJ Graverobbers. Don't forget - dress to impress!


For more information on "A Weekend Fashion Affair," go to athensblvd.com.

Athens this Weekend: April 2 - 4

Spring is in the air, and the warm weather is here! Start enjoying the month of April with the great events that Athens has to offer this weekend.

Friday, April 2:

• A parade of dog breeds, farrier and horseback riding demonstrations, hospital tours and exhibits- these are just some of the activities available to the young and old alike at the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine Open House! Guided tours of the College and Teaching Hospital facilities will be available throughout the day, and interesting exhibits will focus on topics such as animal behavior, equine reproduction and herd health.

Saturday, April 3:

• Great exercise, great fun and a great cause! Join the Athens' Habitat for Humanity and the Athens' Homeless Shelter for the 17th Annual Run/Walk for Home 5K! The race will start at the Classic Center in downtown Athens, run through the downtown area, the North Oconee Greenway and finish behind the Classic Center on Foundry Street. The race will start at 8:00 a.m., rain or shine, and is an event for walkers and runners alike. Proceeds benefits Athens Area Habitat for Humanity and the Athens Area Homeless Shelter.

• The Athens Symphony will present its FREE Spring Concert this Saturday at 8 p.m. at the Classic Center! The Symphony will perform movements from famous fifth symphonies and will feature a former UGA professor and a Monroe band teacher as soloists.

Sunday, April 4: Happy Easter!

• You're invited to celebrate Easter at The Georgia Center, with Easter Lunch served in the Magnolia Ballroom. Reservations required. Entree selections include leg of lamb, honey-glazed ham, sirloin of beef, chicken Key Largo and pecan crusted tilapia. Call 706.542.6341 to reserve today! Only $19.95 for adults, $6.95 for children and children under 6 are free!

Ongoing Events:

• Happy 30th birthday, R.E.M.! April 5, 1980 marked the very first time Bill, Peter, Mike and Michael took the stage together in Athens, GA. It has been 30 years since R.E.M. made its debut, and the Classic City is ready to celebrate with a weekend full of very special events! Take a music heritage tour with scenster Paul Butchart, celebrate at a very special party at The Melting Point, view a 90-minute retropective at Cine and listen to WUOG 90.5 fm for 5 STRAIGHT HOURS of R.E.M. music!

• Now is your chance to see Athens on the big screen! Produced by Athens native Ashley Epting, Not Since You is the story of a group of once tight-knit college friends coming back together for a wedding. This movie was filmed and set in Athens! One screening per day brought to you by Epting Events and Harry's Pig Shop. Monday through Thursday, each night will have a charity designation for which patrons can elect for one dollar from each ticket to go to the designated charity of the day.

• UGA Sports: UGA Tennis has two home matches this weekend and Top Ten-Ranked UGA Softball takes on Arkansas.

DON'T FORGET! Spring means festivals, and Athens has over 10 annual events/festivals just this month! We are offering 18 web coupons and 5 great getaway packages to make your planning easier! We also have a calendar of events with a list of all music, festivals, etc. Click here to see what we have to offer.

Stadion Athens Classic at UGA

Only 36 more days until one of the most anticipated events of the year- the Stadion Athens Classic at UGA! The tournament, known in the previous four years as the Athens Regional Foundation Classic, well be held April 26 - May 2 at the UGA golf course. It will be the only PGA TOUR-sanctioned event that is owned and operated by an institution of higher education-go UGA!

All net proceeds from the tournament will fund need-based scholarships for UGA students through the Arch Foundation. In addition, local nonprofits will have the opportunity to add thousands of dollars to their bottom line through the TICKETS Fore CHARITY program. Tournament related events will be conducted all week, including multiple pro-ams, clinics and various other opportunities for fans to participate and interact with players.

Watkinsville-based Stadion Money Management, Inc. will serve as the title sponsor for the event. Since 1991, Stadion Money Management has been managing investors' money for long-term goals like retirement, education and future family legacy.

For more information about the event including how to purchase tickets and/or volunteer, click here.

Athens This Weekend: March 19 - 21

Friday, March 19:

• One person's trash is another person's treasure at Northeast Georgia's largest thrift sale Bargainza! Head to Old Farmers Hardware on Lexington Road to shop from an eclectic mix of merchandise including furniture, lawn and garden equipment, children's toys and clothing. This sale is a major fundraiser for the Junior League of Athens, and a percentage of the proceeds will benefit P.A.L.S. (Friday - Saturday event.)

• The UGA Observatory will be open for public viewing this Friday for 60 to 90 minutes. If the night is clear, those attending will look through the telescope at the stars. If cloudy, there will be a brief talk on astronomy that is of current interest. Everyone is welcome!

• The 40 Watt Club presents Athens' first ever Athens Music Collective (AMC) Showcase Concert. All proceeds from the night's ticket sales will benefit GoARTS!, a local organization that brings opportunities to under-served children in the Athens area. During the show, Classic City Promotions draw a winner of the R.E.M. autographed guitar, live on stage. Show starts at 9 p.m.

Saturday, March 20:

• Save the Ta Ta's! This year's BreastFest event at the Terrapin Beer Company will feature live music by some of Athens' finest musicians, food, beer tasting, brewery tours and a silent auction - fun for the whole family! All proceeds from BreastFest will benefit the St. Mary's Women's Diagnostic Center to support local women and families affected by breast cancer. Tickets are $20.00 in advance/$25.00 at the door. Children are free!!!

• The UGA Performing Arts Center is proud to present I Musici de Montreal, a Canadian chamber ensemble that has performed in many of the world's greatest halls under the dynamic direction of Yuli Turovsky. Their vast repertoire extends from the Baroque to the contemporary and their many recordings have garnered numerous awards. Show starts at 8 p.m.

• Grab the family and head over to the Lamar Dodd School of Art to learn about animals in art at Family Day: Spring Festival. Look at images of works from the museum's collection and then create your own real or imaginary animal to take home. The event will feature live animals including an owl, a snake, frogs and turtles, courtesy of Memorial Park's Bear Hollow. Snacks will be provided.

Sunday, March 21:

• Dancing with the Athens Stars returns this Sunday to the Classic Center! The event puts a spotlight on some of the Classic City's better-known faces and names, pairing them with an instructor and setting them loose on the Classic Center's stage to show off their moves. Routines will be representative of various dance syles such as ballroom, salsa and hip hop. All proceeds benefit Project Safe. Tickets are only $15!

Athens This Weekend: February 19 - 21

Friday, February 19:

• Join us for the 2010 Southern Garden Heritage Conference at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia! Robin Salmon will open the conference with a lecture about garden sculpture and close the conference with a lecture about garden sculpture and close the conference with a presentation about Brookgreen Gardens, one of America's finest sculpture gardens. Amateurs and professionals alike are sure to find this conference interesting and informative. Preregistration is required- call 706.542.6359 today! $95 for members, $110 for non-members.

• Great event for all ages! Sandy Creek Park and the Athens Astronomical Association will host Starwatch: Winter Night Skies tomorrow from 7- 9 p.m. Starwatch is a unique event where participants can enjoy views of the winter constellations, Mars, and the crescent moon. Pre-registration is recommended. Only $2 for ACC residents and $3 for non-residents!

Saturday, February 20:

• Take a trip to Kingpins Bowl and Brew this Saturday from 2 - 5 p.m. for Bowling for the Bard and great prizes! They will be raffling off a framed, autographed poster from REM! Season tickets, restaurant gift certificates and more are also up for grabs. All proceeds help produce this summer's free production of The Taming of the Shrew. Only $5 to participate!

• In celebration of Black History Month, Classic City Tours is offering a special 2-hour bus tour at 2 p.m. of Athens' most significant African-American heritage sites. Stops include the Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery and Morton Theatre.

Sunday, February 21:

• "Eat, Drink, and Help Many" by attending the 17th annual A Taste of Athens! Over 50 restaurants and beverage distributors are participating for your chance to sample local cuisine, sip on wine & beer from regional distributors, bid on amazing silent auction items, and mix & mingle with other community supporters. This event benefits Community Connection of Northeast Georgia, who empowers our community to GET HELP, GIVE HELP, and GROW HELP.

• Support Sandy Creek Nature Center by walking or running in the Frog Hop 5K! The one-mile Tadpole Fun Run starts at 2 p.m. with the 5K race set for 2:30 p.m. Race entry forms are available around town, at Sandy Creek Nature Center or at the nature center's Web site. You can also register here. Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome!

Ongoing Events:

• SEC Swim & Dive Championships: The Georgia swimming and diving teams are proud to host the 2010 Southeastern Conference Championships at Gabrielsen Natatorium. The four-day competition features seven men's teams and six women's squads that are ranked in the Top 25 by the College Swimming Coaches Association of America! See schedule here.

• Town and Gown presents Mame: Town and Gown presents Mame, a Tony-Award winning musical, at the Athens Community Theater! From mountain climbing related deaths to Massachusetts boarding schools, Mame is a musical that has it all. The musical, based on Patrick Dennis' novel Auntie Mame, chronicles the tumultuous and often hilarious life of the titular character. Mame made its broadway Theatre debut in 1969, and it features Georgia as a prominent setting. 8 p.m. Thursday - Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday.

• UGA Sports: UGA tennis has two home matches this weekend, taking on Southern Cal. on Friday and Arkansas on Sunday. Also, cheer on the Hoop Dawgs as they take on Alabama!

• Not Since You Movie Premiere and Screening: This film was shot in large part in Athens! Not Since You is an ensemble film about a tight-knit group of college friends who graduated from NYU just prior to 9/11 and reunite years later for a weekend wedding in Georgia. It premieres this Friday, and screening for only one week at Beechwood Cinemas.

Valentine's Weekend in the Classic City

Enjoy a perfect Valentine's weekend getaway in Athens! Take advantage of fabulous rates and the first-class hospitality of this Classic City. Whether or not you have a lot of money to spend, Athens offers great opportunities for you and your sweetheart!

Go Big!

Fall in love all over again in the Classic City as you celebrate Valentine's all weekend! Several weekend romance packages are available which include overnight accommodations in Athens, romantic dinners by candlelight and tickets to amazing concerts at the most unique music venues or great UGA sports. Visit our packages page for complete information and options for the most romantic Valentine's weekend!

Budget-friendly!

On Valentine's Eve, the Melting Point offers an evening of Cool Jazz and Hot Romance. Eat, drink and listen closely as jazz legend Francine Reed performs. Tickets are $25.00 in advance and $30.00 the day of the show.

The Georgia Club hosts a Valentine's Dinner Dance on Sunday, featuring a one-man tribute to Sinatra by Adam Komesar. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. in the Dawgwood Ballrooms. Admission is $40 for members and $44 for guests. Price will increase after February 12!! Call the clubhouse at 770.725.8100 to make reservations.

If you and your partner are looking for something adventurous to do on Valentine's Day, head over to Canopy Studio for a Beginner Partner Trapeze Workshop! Learn basic partnering skills on the dance trapeze in this workshop designed for friends or couples. Wear breathable clothing that will cover the backs of knees and arms. Advance registration and payment required. Send an e-mail to info@canopystudio.com. $40 per couple.

Get Creative!

So you are going to be in Athens on Valentine's weekend, but are on a tight budget. Don't panic- you can still find things to do that are free!

Star-gaze through a 24-inch telescope! The UGA Observatory (atop the Physics and Astronomy building) will be open for public viewing this Friday at 8 p.m. for 60 to 90 minutes. If cloudy, there will be a brief talk on astronomy that is of current interest.

Join the Georgia Museum of Art at the Lyndon House Arts Center for an early Valentine's Celebration on Saturday from 10 a.m. - noon. Use the works of arts you see in the galleries to inspire your own pop-up Valentines. Heart-shaped treats will be provided.

On Valentine's Day, Lay Park hosts the annual Senior Sweetheart Prom in the park's gymnasium. Activities include dancing, music, refreshments and socializing! The Senior Sweetheart Prom is open to citizens 55-years and older.

Don't forget! Our Twitter contest runs until Wednesday at midnight! Retweet my Twitter post to win a certificate for you and a loved one for $50 credit at The National and admission to Tituss Burgess' performance at the Morton Theatre.

RT to Win the Tituss Burgess Dinner Package

Broadway star Tituss Burgess returns to Athens on February 13 to kick-off Morton Theatre's Centennial Celebration with Tituss Burgess...One Night Only! Burgess will grace the stage with Showtunes, Jazz Standards and backstage stories.

One lucky winner and a friend will receive a certificate which includes two admissions to the Tituss Burgess performance plus $50 credit at The National, a downtown Athens restaurant with Meditteranean-inspired food. The winner can pick up the certificate at the Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau any time from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 11.

The contest only runs until Wednesday, February 10 at midnight so hurry, and start retweeting!

About Tituss Burgess:

Burgess, a graduate of local Cedar Shoals High School and UGA, has appeared in four Broadway musicals. He recently starred as Nicely-Nice Johnson in the new Broadway revival of Guys and Dolls. He originated the role of Sebastian the Crab in Disney's The Little Mermaid, as well as original Broadway cast roles in Jersey Boys and Good Vibrations.

How to participate in the Twitter contest:

Simply retweet my Twitter post about the event. After midnight on Wednesday a random number generator will select the winner.

New to Twitter or our contests? Not sure how to retweet? Click here or here for examples.

For official contest rules, click here.

Pulitzer Prize-Winning Author Douglas Blackmon to Speak at UGA

The Richard B. Russell Library and partners present two special opportunities to meet and hear Atlanta Bureau Chief of the Wall Street Journal and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Douglas Blackmon this Thursday, January 28. Blackmon is a passionate advocate of history and research as a tool for social justice.

2:00 - 3:00 p.m (Russell Library Auditorium):

Blackmon will discuss his approach to research as a journalist and scholar working to reconstruct a fragmentary history of forced labor of African Americans in years between the Civil War and World War II for his award-winning book, Slavery by Another Name, The Re-Enslavement of Black People in America from the Civil War to World War II. He will also entertain questions and ideas from those in attendance. This program will be a great chance for the campus community to compare notes and share ideas with one of the country's preeminent journalists and authors. This program is free, but seating is limited. To reserve a space for the program, please contact Jill Severn at 706.542.5766 or jsevern@uga.edu.

4:30 - 6:30 p.m. (Reading Room- 3rd Floor, Miller Learning Center):

Blackmon will also present a more formal free lecture entitled, A Persistent Past: Reckoning with Racial History in the Era of Obama. No RSVP necessary! Following this program, there will be a light reception and Blackmon will be available to sign copies of his book.

The Miller Learning Center is located on the northeast corner of Baxter Street and South Lumpkin Street. Parking is available in the adjacent Tate Center Parking Deck (entrance via South Lumpkin Street.) University of Georgia and Athens-Clarke County City buses stop in front of the Tate Center, which is next to the Miller center. See a map here.