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Subscribe by EmailThere’s Something Fun for Everyone in Columbus, GA this Weekend!
Arts, Events, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Thursday, June 13, 2013 | Permalink
This is definitely shaping up to be a weekend where everybody will find something fun to get into. I mean, where else can you go from picking blackberries, to running in your pj's, to exploring a cemetery?! Take a look at this quick rundown of things to do, but don't forget to head to the big Event Calendar to get more details and to see all that's happening.
Besides the fact that it’s 902 degrees outside with humidity to match, you know Summer is truly here when it’s time to enjoy some fresh blackberries! So why not head to The Rock Ranch this Saturday for their Blackberry Festival?! They’re marking the beginning of blackberry season with this event and they’ll even have a produce stand set up with freshly picked berries other fresh fruit and veggies, jellies and honey…and in honor of the theme…Blackberry Cobbler!! There’s tons of free stuff for kids to enjoy like corn hole games, bounce house, bluegrass band or you can also purchase a wristband that will get you access to more fun like train and pony rides, petting zoo, giant jumping pillow and more. There’s even a “Cow-a-Bunga” zip lines! If you can’t make it this weekend, similar fun happening next weekend, but instead of blackberries, Sweet Corn is the star!
If you’re looking for a fun way to kick off this weekend, maybe ditch work a little early today and head to Callaway Gardens for their Fabulous Fridays event. They’ve got all sorts of cool things going on like a Farmers Market where you can get fresh produce, baked goods, and more yummy stuff. The fun continues into the evening with great food, drink specials, beach activities and live music. Tonight, you’ll hear the sweet sounds of Randy & Darlene. If you want some high-flying fun, the Florida State University Flying High Circus will have a performance at 8:00pm. And the best part it that this all takes place under the stars at one of the most beautiful spots anywhere in the country and it’s right in our own backyard, just 30 minutes up the road!
Got kids who love to read? Cart them to Oxbow Meadows Saturday morning for their Reading Club! This time, it’s all about the new book “Chinaberry Summer” and the author will even be there to read some excerpts! Program begins at 11:00am and it’s free!
Alright, stay with me on this one because it may sound a little out of the ordinary. If you have never explored one of our local historic treasures, here’s a great opportunity. The Third Thursday of the month (now-Sept) you can take a guided tour of Linwood Cemetery. This thing is not only chocked full of local history—you’ll hear all kinds of cool stories of some of the people who are buried there…like Dr. Pemberton, the guy who invented the formula for Coca-Cola. He’s buried there in a pauper’s grave! Not to mention, there are some great photo ops of beautiful stone and iron work, some really interesting epitaphs. Wear some good walking shoes and bring some water because the tour lasts about an hour and starts at the Lummus Chapel, at the east end of the cemetery.
So if traipsing through a cemetery isn’t “out there” enough for you this weekend, how about running through Uptown in your PJ’s?! The Miss Georgia Pageant is back in town and to kick things off, there really is a Pajama Run this Saturday night. Not only is there the 5K Run & Walk, but there is a Pajama Run Parade to kick things off at 7:00 and a free concert with Big Woody & The Splinters in the median of Broadway at 8:00pm! The run begins at 9:00pm and you’re encouraged to wear your “Most Tastefully” outlandish pajamas! And for those who get really creative, there’s also a “Show us Your Bedroom Slippers” contest. Proceeds benefit the Miss Georgia Scholarship Fun and Children's Miracle Network.
And one more thing that smaller kids...ok, us big kids too! What kid on the face of this earth doesn’t love Dr. Seuss, especially one of his most beloved…The Cat in the Hat!? The book comes to life on the stage at CSU’s Riverside Theatre Complex in Uptown Saturday at 10:00am (6 West 10th St.) The show is action-packed and runs about 40 minutes so it’s good for all ages! Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids 12 & under.
Time's a wasting! Start making some weekend plans asap.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Weekend. Playtime. ‘Nuff Said!
Arts, Events, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Thursday, June 6, 2013 | Permalink
We've made it. Time for fun. What to do, what to do? First thing you should do is take a look at the Event Calendar to get a good look at all that's going on, but in the meantime, here are a couple of things that may strike your fancy.
The only thing better than getting to go on a tour of homes and check out the inside design ideas of houses you normally might not get to see, is to be able to traipse through beautiful, lush gardens of a planned tour! Keep Columbus Beautiful is hosting just such a tour this weekend and they’ve lined up some of the most gorgeous, well manicured, meticulously designed gardens in the city. Not only will you get an up-close look at the Columbus Museum’s Olmsted Garden, but also you’ll get to explore 9 other private gardens and maybe pick up some interesting design or planting ideas to take back home to work in your own outdoor space.
They--whoever "they" are--keep talking about gas prices falling this summer, but I just filled up my tank and I got to be honest, didn’t really see a steep decline in the amount of money I spent! And with vacation season here and folks making plans on what to do with their time off, keeping the drive time down and exploring what our state and region have to offer might just be a good solution to the vacation budget dilemma this year. A great place to find out what there is to get out and do in our state is at the “Georgia on my Mind Day” event at the State Welcome Center on Williams Rd. On Friday (June 7) from 11:00am-2:00pm, attractions, hotels, restaurants, and destinations from all over Georgia will be set up with displays and giveaways to help you make a plan for a family fun getaway in our own backyard. When you think about it, GA has a lot to offer—mountains, coast, big cities, even a big swamp to explore!
Just when you thought the Uptown Concert Series was done, we’ve lucked out and have a couple of more chances to boogie on Broadway! This Saturday night (June 8) should be big fun with the Journey tribute band “Departure” hitting the stage at 7:00pm. These guys put on a phenomenal show! It’s also a fundraiser for one of the nicest people I know…Columbus Police Department Captain Jackey Long to help cover the cost of his medical expenses.
Get out your loud Hawaiian shirts because it’s time for the JunkFest Luau! This sounds like a day of some really eclectic fun and entertainment. If you go for the music, you're in luck because they’ll have more than 10 grassroots bands on the stage—the Bibb City Ramblers, Seanrox Trio, Riley Yielding and others; there’s a ukulele jam, a drum circle, yoga, hula-hooping, dancing, tons of handmade crafts and natural gifts, kids and adult folk art projects, and lots more! It’s all set in the fruit and nut tree-lined pasture behind the world-famous Gina’s Junk Thrift & Antiques—they’ve built a really nice venue for events like this. They’ll have lots of food including Country’s Barbecue and the Ice Cream Girl will be there with what else...Hawaiian Ice! Make sure you bring some non-perishable food items because that will be donated to the Valley Rescue Mission.
So how many hours have kids been out of school and they’re already whining that there’s nothing to do? Got a couple of ideas to get them out of the house and into air conditioned-comfort to enjoy some really great movies, and there’s also a chance for us big kids to go check out some movies as well at some out-of-the-ordinary locations. The Springer Opera House is doing a Cool Summer Films event and the movies really run the gamut from classic, western, comedies, suspense and children’s. In fact, they’re showing “Pulp Fiction” tonight (7pm), ET-The Extraterrestrial (2pm) and Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil tomorrow (7pm). Other upcoming movies include Breakfast at Tiffany’s, The Princess Bride, Rear Window, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and one of my all time favorites...Young Frankenstein! Trivia contests prior to show time & refreshments in the Saloon!
Or you and the kids can head to the National Infantry Museum this summer because they’ve lined up a slate of 16 kid-favorite films for June & July. Every Tuesday and Wednesday now through July 24, you can experience movies in the IMAX theatre and did I mention that admission is free for both children and adults? Sweet! Check their website for the full line-up.
Lots to do--just get out and do it!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Who Needs Some Weekend Fun? We’ve got it in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Thursday, May 30, 2013 | Permalink
It's Friday Eve, so that means it's time to do some quick research to see what's happening this weekend! And to make your life easier, I've done a little digging for you and unearthed a few things you might like to get out and do. Of course, it didn't take much effort on my part because I headed straight to the Event Calendar to take a look at all the happenings, so you might want to do the same.
It’s summertime and that means it’s getting hot outside! But you can stay cool inside the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus as they kick off their Cool History Summer Series Program! This Saturday you’ll hear the compelling story of the ironclad, Atlanta. The program starts at 12:30pm where 12 lucky winners and fans of the museum’s Facebook page will have a boat tour of the Chattahoochee Riverfront, followed by a guided tour of the museum at 1:30pm, then at 2:30pm Dr. Maurice Melton will present the story of the Capture of the CSS Atlanta. Finally at 3:30pm it ends with a bang with a naval weapons demonstration and cannon firing! It’s a great way to see and hear history brought to life.
Looks like yet another big weekend in Uptown Columbus. The Concert Series has been extended! Friday night (May 31), you can come out to the 1000 block of Broadway to see Peggy Jenkins & the Bizness as they rock the streets. It’s a free show! Just bring your chairs, blankets and dancing shoes! Then come back down to Uptown on Saturday because in the 1100 black you can watch and even participate in the Uptown Drum Circle. It starts at 6pm. You can bring your own drums or if you don’t have any, they’ll provide one for you. There will also be a kid’s corner with face painting, crazy hair and more, a yoga demonstration by Art of Yoga Studio and a Belly & Fire Dance demo! Make sure you check out the re-purposed art exhibition and auction by local artists. This a great, FREE family friendly event!
The Coca-Cola Space Science Center will help you navigate the night sky this Monday at Callaway Garden’s Overlook Pavilion beginning at 9:00pm. See and learn about stars, planets, satellites and more. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the evening.
Not to mention there's an open house at Pasaquan, home of folk artist Eddie Owens Martin, in Buena Vista on Saturday---which is only open the first Saturday of every month from April thru November. Or there's Fabulous Fridays at Callaway Gardens where you can get fresh produce, baked goods, and more yummy stuff. The fun continues into the evening with great food, drink specials, beach activities and live music! Each week, various bands will take the stage at 7pm for the Summer Music Series. If you need a little comedy in your life, then you MUST check out No Shame Theatre at the Springer Opera House. Every Friday night at 10:30pm, you’ll see improve, poetry, dance, comedy and more. Anybody can perform, you just have to be one of the first 15 to sign up when the doors open at 10pm and acts must be original, less than 5 minutes and not break any laws. This is for an 18 and older audience. Admission to watch is $5.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
big, Big, BIG Weekend in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, River Fun, Shopping, on Friday, May 24, 2013 | Permalink
Hold onto your hats folks because it's going to be a weekend in Columbus, GA that we won't soon forget! All the right components are coming together...great weather, the unofficial beginning of Summer, tons of old favorite and new things to do...for an epic holiday weekend.
Memorial Day Weekend is always jam-packed but this Memorial Day weekend is going to be something extra special because there is an event this Saturday morning that kicks off something brand new to Columbus and it’s something that’s been several decadesin the making! Whitewater Columbus, GA will officially be up and running this Saturday and there is a grand opening celebration at 10:00am on the RiverWalk Island (by the Powerhouse at Eagle & Phenix) so you can see what all the hoopla is about. And if you’re ready to take the plunge, there are still a few spaces left on Saturday and Sunday to take a raft trip with the guides from Whitewater Express. If you haven't been down to see the whitewater course, I think you'll be really impressed!
Something else happening along the river for the first time ever is an event called a Dragon Boat Festival. There will be all the usual fun festival stuff, but what sets this apart are the dragon boats! These are long, skinny boats that contain a team of 20 paddlers and one drummer. Teams consist of local folks (corporations, family, friends) who have practiced & are ready to race! What’s cool about this is that part of the proceeds will be given to the Children’s Miracle Network at Cols Regional Children’s Hospital. Each team will race in three heats to establish the champion. Dragon boat races are held in about 70 communities in the US and more than 60 million people worldwide have participated. This being the first year, organizers had a goal of 20 teams to race but they’ve been blown away with the enthusiasm of Columbus as they have 32 teams ready to race! Everything kicks off on the river behind the Coca-Cola Space Science Center at 11:00am. Free to watch!
A great way to kick off this long weekend is heading to Uptown for Classic Addict in concert tonight on Broadway. Scott Ressmeyer and his gang of motorcycle buddies will make their return to Columbus tonight at the concert after traveling thru all 48 lower states on their fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network. Great music and fun and it’s all FREE!
If you want to do a quick road trip, load the car and head to Callaway Gardens for the 54th Masters Water Ski and Wake Board Tournament--they've got wall-to-wall activities going on thru Monday; or head over the the Little White House and get ready to relax because they are filling up the historic pools with that 88-degree mineral water...talk about making you feel good all over; and if you want to head south, the 1850's Village of Westville is doing a reenactment of a couple of the battles from the Creek Indian War--plus they'll have other activities like story telling, dancing and handicrafts to enjoy.
Hope you have a safe and happy Memorial Day Weekend!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Looking for Stuff to do this Weekend? Boy, are you in the Right Place!
Arts, Events, Good Eats!, River Fun, Shopping, on Friday, May 17, 2013 | Permalink
Driving into work this morning through Uptown Columbus there is definitely a festival-feeling in the air! Several stages are being set up, food vendors staking out their plot of land (oh please, let there be a funnel cake maestro somewhere in the mix), and organizers taking care of last minute details all in preparation for tonight's (May 17) kick off of the new CutBait Music Festival! This thing looks like it's going to be huge...and a whole lot of fun. Over 40 national and Southern artists, 9 stages, and just about every music genre you can imagine. This two-day event cranks up tonight at 6:30pm. Keni Thomas, Sister Hazel, Shooter Jennings and Bronze Radio Return are just a few of the artists you can see tonight. Then it starts all over again on Saturday (May 18) at 2pm. With both outdoor and indoor stages, and a mix of unique venues this is truly going to be an awesome festival. Some venues have as few seats as 75 so if there’s an artist you really want to see, get there early! For a full schedule you can check out www.cutbaitmusic.com. The best deal for admission is the Weekend Pass for $35, or you can get a $15 pass for Friday night, and a $25 ticket for Saturday. This is the ultimate music experience right on the banks of the Chattahoochee River.
Once you’ve rested up after CutBait Music Festival, head to Lakebottom Park in MidTown Columbus for the Annual Arts in the Park event at Lakebottom Park. Arts in the Park as been around for a while and is always a good time for the whole family. The event features the works of area artists, lots of children’s activities, including face painting, arts and crafts and pony rides and petting zoo, and musical performances by the Justice Family Bluegrass Band, Bob Barr Community Band and Jennifer Duncan. If you’re in the market to buy some art, you’re in luck because the art is for sale…it’s not just a show. This event is FREE and attendees are invited to bring a picnic basket, spread out on a blanket and enjoy the afternoon. There will be vendors on site selling food and drinks as well. Again, a great way to spend a Sunday with the family!
Or how about taking the kids to the Safe Kids Bike Rodeo at Hollywood Connection on Saturday? From 10:00am-2:00pm, there will be free bike helmets for kids under 14 years old, speed skating race, mascots, a safety obstacle course, door prizes, games and more!
Make sure you put this one on your list because this weekend is your last chance to see Lakebottom Prime at the Springer Opera House. Written by Georgia playwright, Topher Payne, Lakebottom Prime is the prequel to the 2011 hit, Lakebottom Proper. Before Lakebottom was a lake bottom there was actually a lake! The wedding of the century is being planned by Priscilla Tuttle and nothing will stop her from having the perfect lakeside ceremony attended by all of Columbus’ elite. But of course there are problems…the bride’s mother might be evil, the bridesmaids come down with malaria and the city begins to drain the lake. And as the water level gets lower, the anxiety rises because there’s a secret at the bottom and the Tuttle family will do anything to keep it hidden. I got a chance to see it last week and it is a hilarious show!
When people start thinking about fun things to do on the weekend, I’m quite sure going to a cemetery isn’t one of the first things that pops in your head, but this might change your mind! Linwood Cemetery is a beautiful historic cemetery with some pretty fascinating people buried there. On the third Saturday of the month (tomorrow) they have a guided tour. The walking tour lasts about an hour and is free and open to the public. You’ll start at the beautiful Lummus Chapel and hear stories of some of the more interesting people buried in Linwood, the history of Columbus, the beautiful stone and iron works, unique epitaphs and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own water. No reservations are required!
And you thought it was just going to be a quiet, restful weekend.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Weekend + Spring = Fun Weekend in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Thursday, May 2, 2013 | Permalink
The above is all the math you need to know for the weekend...which is a good thing for me! And yep, the deeper into Spring we get, the more packed the weekends are with fun stuff to do. In fact, just in Uptown Columbus alone this weekend, there's something going on almost the entire time. Of course, everything kicks off with Big Woody & The Splinters headlining the free concert tonight in the 1000 block, but on Saturday, there's also Junkin' on Broadway, Market Days on Broadway, A Feathered Affair, which is a birdhouse auction benefiting Columbus Area Habitat, a Cinco de Mayo Celebration, and a Comic Book Show at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center.
Oh, but wait...there's more! Don't forget that the Uptown Drum Circle that kicks off at 6:00pm Saturday night. It’s your chance to take part in or just watch something you may never have seen before-a Community Drum Circle. A drum circle is not a drum class, it’s a fun, family friendly event where people celebrate through rhythm and music. You don’t even have to have any musical expertise and you can bring whatever type of drum or percussion instrument you have. You can even make your own! Even if you decide not to participate, it should be really cool to watch!
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect Spring festival, well, this is your weekend! It’s “The Cotton Pickin’ Fair” just up the road a bit in Gay, GA. What sets this festival apart has got to be the setting…it isn’t just a few tents pitched in an empty lot…it’s set on the grounds of a 1910 farmhouse, complete with a Cotton Warehouse, which makes this the absolute best setting for all the skilled artisans and antique specialists with booths filled with pottery, weaving, sculpture, woodcarving, painting, jewelry, wearable art, blacksmithing, and glass blowing—plus there’s live entertainment, and without a doubt, some of the best food in this entire state. In fact, I know folks who go just for the food because you’ll find anything from pimento cheese sandwiches, onion rings, and sweet potato fries! Don't even eat today-bank those calories for the weekend.
And finally, if you’ve got kids in the household because they are going to love this…or even if you’re just a fan of Roald Dahl, then you’re going to love this one too! It’s The Big Friendly Giant at the Springer Opera House and it’s all about a little girl named Sophie who is snatched from her orphanage bedroom, hauled off across the landscape to Giant Country and kept in a cave by a huge creature who talks squiff-squiddly…I don’t know what that means but now I’m really intrigued! Well, the giant promises not to gobble her up like an hors d’oeuvres, so of course, they become the best of friends and then go on all sorts of adventures together. This is the last weekend for it, so squeeze it in your weekend plans if you can. Good for any ages kindergarten & up!
Hopefully, some of that info will get you thinking about weekend plans...and let's face it, most of us have been making weekend plans since Monday morning!
Now, go have some fun,
shelby
A Wonderful Weekend Awaits in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, Good Eats!, River Fun, on Friday, April 26, 2013 | Permalink
Ah, Springtime in the South! The temperature is perfect, humidty hasn't reared its ugly head yet and there's plenty of events to get out and enjoy. You should go take a look at the Event Calendar to get a taste of what's going on this weekend...there's a lot to choose from.
Speaking of 'getting a taste,' that's just what you can do tonight and tomorrow at this year's Bash on the Banks. Barbecue. Beer. Live Music. Need I say more?! If you want to sample some of the best barbecue in the south, head down to Woodruff Park (Uptown) tonight (Apr 26) for the People's Choice competition...mmm, mmm, good! There’s live music from The Relics, a big car show on Saturday that benefits the Special Olympics, a best burger competition, Kansas City Barbecue Society-sanctioned events on Saturday… in fact, the winner gets to go to Las Vegas to compete in the World Food Championships! Remember, admission is free but food and drinks will be sold separately.
Forget about lions, tigers and bears because this Saturday (10am-3pm) at Oxbow Meadows, it’s all about reptiles with their annual Reptile Fest! It’s a day dedicated to the awesome world of reptiles and they’ve got some really cool things planned like a reptile show hosted by Jason Clark of SnakesRUs, kid-friendly crafts, tortoise bingo, inflatables, games food, and two things that really sound worth the visit…an alligator feeding and the “Hiss America Pageant!” So this alligator feeding, which they’re calling “Brunch with the Gators” happens at 11:00am and this should be something to see because these gators only get fed a couple of times a year! And this “Hiss America Pageant?” First of all, it gets the prize for the most clever name ever, but it’s tons of fun and is just like a real beauty pageant…only with reptiles! Human participants will walk the runway with their dressed up pets and I guess answer for their pets during the Q & A portion!
If you’re in the mood for something cultural, like maybe some ballet…you’re in luck because the Columbus Ballet is having their Spring Performance this Saturday and Sunday at CSU’s Fine Arts Hall. The dancers will be performing all sorts of dance from classic ballet, contemporary ballet, to jazz! Tickets only $10 for adults and $5 for children under the age of 10.
If you’re looking for something a little different to kick off your weekend, you might want to make the short drive to Callaway Gardens tonight (Apr 26) for “Symphony on the Sand” that features the award-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra! They’ll be performing under the stars on Robin Lake Beach and end the evening with a bang with a sky full of fireworks! You can either order a VIP Table on the Sand or you can opt for a ticket for a space on the lawn. I say pack up a picnic basket, throw a couple of lawn chairs and blankets in the car, put on your flip flops and enjoy this Friday night. And can I just say that this one has great date-night written all over it?!
It’s high-time to get your bicycle out of winter storage and on the road! Check out the Wheels to Heal Bike Ride to benefit the John B. Amos Cancer Center this Sunday beginning at 7:00am with check-in and breakfast. Rides, which begin at the Columbus Civic Center and range from 40-100 miles and the Family Ride, begin at 9:00am. Remember, it’s a ride not a race, so choose a route that matches your endurance and helmets are required! On top of all the other cook stuff you get for participating, there’s even a post-ride barbecue by Country’s!
The 3rd Annual Party on the Lawn is happening this Sunday on the lawn at the Wynnton Arts Academy!! You don’t have to live or work in MidTown to enjoy all the festivities…just bring yourself, your kids, lawn chairs and dancing shoes because the afternoon will be filled with music with Jan Hyatt and The Usual Suspects, lots of activities for kids, food samples for MidTown restaurants. What a great way to wind down the weekend!
Want to find out more? Just head to the Event Calendar to all the details!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Listen! Hear That? That’s the Sound of Weekend Fun Calling in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, on Thursday, April 18, 2013 | Permalink
Check the calendar...like you haven't already done that everyday this week to see if it was Friday yet...because the weekend is finally here! Looks like a beautiful weekend on tap with plenty of great things to get out and do. Like what, you ask? Well, check this out...
Frogtown Hollow Jam is back in Woodruff Park in Uptown Columbus with a packed two-day music festival for the whole family. There will be nonstop live music on stage of all genres, tons of food, arts and crafts vendors, a big kids area with inflatables, face painters, stilt-walkers and more! You can also catch a ride in a hot-air balloon. As for the music, it’s really going to rock. Friday (April 19), the doors open at 6:30 and the music starts at 7. And what I’m really looking forward to…Departure, the Journey Tribute Band, will start at 8:45. Then the fun kicks off on Saturday at noon with an awesome line-up of music, including the Neal Lucas Band at 6pm, everybody’s favorite Peggy Jenkins and the Bizness at 7:45pm, and Roonie G will close it out at 10pm. It’s going to be a busy 2 days!
If you’re looking for something different to do on Saturday (April 20), this is for you! The National Civil War Naval Museum presents History Now!, a living history and museum theatre festival. Firs, they will be at Market Days Saturday morning at 10am in the 1000 block of Broadway with an interpreter in period uniform showing what daily life was like aboard ship. Then head to the museum for the rest of the afternoon where you’ll enjoy performances interpreting the 11th to 20th centuries through performing arts. Programming will include participants from The Knights of Pendragon who will be jousting, The Smithsonian, Colonial Williamsburg, The Liberty Theatre, CSU and Mercury Studios in Los Angeles. A great history lesson for kids!
Ready to get dirty? The Highland Mudder, a 5K Mud and Obstacle Race, is taking place at North Highland Church tomorrow at 8am. The course includes 13+obstacles including a mud pit, 80ft water slide and a barbed wire crawl. Even if you don’t want to enter, this will be a blast to watch! It’s $65 to enter.
Look who's turning the Big 6-0!! The Columbus Museum has a big party happening this weekend while celebrating their 60th birthday. Let There Be Art and Bloom is a beautiful event with many different components going through Sunday. Events include an Art Show and Sale (April 19-25) with artists from the East Coast, all over the South and from Europe, a Botanical Tent (April 19-21) where one can not only buy plants but also see demonstrations and consult with Master Gardeners, a Café (April 19-20 from 11:30am – 2pm) where you can come enjoy the view, terrific speakers and more demonstrations along with a boxed lunch for $12. Tomorrow, from 10am-5pm, there is a James Farmer Party. Farmer is a Southern author, gardener, floral and interior designer, and cook. Several events revolve around him including a lecture, meet & greet and book signing, culinary art demonstration and more. Om Sunday, enjoy a Southern Picnic in the garden with live Bluegrass music, arts and crafts and kids activities.
Talk about a great event to take that special little girl to!!! Family Theatre presents Twelve Dancing Princesses this Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30pm. This is a production you can take the whole family to and everyone will enjoy! Admission is only $10 for adults and $6 for students.
That's just a quick sample of what's going on this weekend, but to get a complete listing, make sure you take a look at the Event Calendar.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
We Have the Cure for Spring Fever in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, Shopping, on Thursday, April 11, 2013 | Permalink
With days of perfect temperatures, light breezes, and...enjoy it while it lasts...very little humidity, it's awfully hard to stay indoors working under florescent lights and gazing out the windows just wishing you could be outside...playing. Thankfully the weekend is upon us and there is a tremendous amount of things to get out and enjoy. If you want to get a head start in making some weekend plans, head to the Event Calendar and take a look. Or, you can read on to get a quick look of a few things going on.
We might as well start this weekend off with a bang Friday night (4.12) so throw your beach chairs in the car and head to the 1000 block of Broadway for another in this series of the Uptown Columbus Concert series. On stage tonight is the band Satin Finish and the show starts at 7:00pm. And did I mention this concert is free?!
Just a heads-up if you're headed to Market Days in Uptown Columbus tomorrow…don’t be alarmed if you see caped crusaders, masked men and other various superheroes roaming the streets! It’s all part of Superhero Day on Broadway, which is an event to celebrate the Child Abuse Awareness Blue Ribbon Campaign and the kid in all of us. Lots of cool things going on with Oxbow Meadows’ Creature Feature, puppet shows, child-friendly vendors, face painting, child ID kits, sidewalk chalk contest & Safe Kids car seat demos. And what sounds like the highlights to me…a 5K and 1K Fun Run where costumes are encouraged…so much so that there will be a superhero costume contest for all ages!
Stick around in Uptown for more Fun stuff in Woodruff Park this Saturday with an event called “Go Green for Girls, Inc.!” This is one of those events that you can bring the whole family and everyone is going to have a good time! There’ll be a volleyball and Backyard Bocce Ball tournaments and even a Family Bocce Ball tournament for the younger set and the less-competitive players. And speaking of kids, there will be a Kid’s Zone for those between the ages of 3-8 with all sorts of fun like giant inflatable toys from Monkey Joe’s, crafts, sidewalk chalk, jump rope and snacks! Plus there will be prizes and live music. No matter your age, you don’t have to have any experience in volleyball or Bocce ball…just come to have fun and help support the work of Girls, Inc.
It’s no secret that I’ve never had much of a green thumb, but I’m learning and thanks to my buddy Chris Harman, I now have actual, living, green plants and flowers in my yard and it’s amazing the difference in the way your house and yard look. That’s why I’m so excited about the Plant Sale & Garden Market at the Columbus Botanical Garden Friday and Saturday! If you are ready to get some plants growing for the Spring and Summer, you’ve got to check this out because they’ll have so much more than just an azalea or two to offer you…all sorts of greenery and flowers, vegetables, herbs, bulbs, garden art, books, and even guest speakers and the first table I’m headed to—the “Ask-A-Master-Gardener” table! And it's free!
How about heading to one of the prettiest places on earth…that just happens to be in Columbus’ backyard…for a great day outdoors flying a kite? Let’s head to Providence Canyon State Outdoor Recreation Area this Saturday (1:00-4:00pm) for a Kite Rally where you’ll be able to fly kites over the canyon! You can take your own kite with you, but I spoke with the park ranger Trena and she says that the folks who bring their own kites usually wind up putting them back in the car because they’ll have all the materials on hand for you to not only make your own kite, but they’ll show you the right way to make it! She says that kids especially have a ball getting creative making their own kites. And how cool will it be to see all of these kites flying over the canyons in the park?!
And, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra is back in action at the RiverCenter this Saturday night at 7:30pm with a performance called “Warner Plays Shostakovich,” featuring world-renowned cellist Wendy Warner! They’ll be playing all sorts of delicious works from Beethoven and Shostakovich…the kind of music that will give you chill bumps it’s so good! Tickets range from $28-$36 for adults.
Not a bad lineup for the weekend!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Whew! It’s Finally the Weekend-Time for Fun in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Thursday, April 4, 2013 | Permalink
Is it just me or does this feel like the week that would never end? Well, thankfully the end is so close you can almost taste it, so this is probably the perfect time to get a sample of what to do this weekend. You can always zip through the Event Calendar for lots of ideas or read on for a smattering of examples of things to do. P.S. I've been wanting to use the word smattering in a sentence all week. I now feel complete.
OK, let's take a look at stuff...
Spring has definitely sprung in Uptown Columbus and all the fun events we look forward to all year long are back! On Fri night, Peggy Jenkins and the Bizness will rock the streets in the return of Uptown Columbus’ FREE Friday night concerts. Bring your chairs, blankets and dancing shoes. The music starts at 7pm. On Saturday morning, from 9am to noon, Market Days on Broadway kicks back up with approximately 100 vendors! Wow! Get fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, art, jewelry and so much more. This will continue every Saturday through November. Then come back to Uptown Saturday evening at 6pm for the Uptown Drum Circle. All percussion instruments are welcome. Come celebrate life and a weekend full of fun, food, and music!
If you haven’t been to Oxbow Meadows in a while or if you’ve never been, Friday (Apr 5) is the day to go for their special program, Alligators & Agriculture. Spend the morning visiting with their resident alligators while exploring the amazing world of gardening and farming. Visit with several exhibitors through a series of stations that will feature lessons on seeds, plants, gardens, earthworms, pollinating bees, farming and more! It’s a full day of southern style educational entertainment. Some of the exhibitors include GA Farm Bureau, Masters Gardeners, 4-H clubs, and so many more. When the program is over, stay for a little while, meet the huge turtles (my favorite), and walk among the trees in their tree top canopy!
Treat yourself to some fantastic music this Sunday (4:00pm) in Legacy Hall at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. This "Surrond Sound: 360 Degrees of Music" concert features the CSU Choral Union with the Trumpet and Trombone Ensembles in music composed for multiple choirs. The audience is surrounded by the sounds of instruments and voices as the performers use Legacy Hall to its spatial potential. And it’s FREE!
Don’t miss this year’s Spring Fling at the Columbus Civic Center. The biggest and best yet, this is the last weekend for the exciting carnival! There’s heart-pumping, adrenaline boosting rides for the adults and tame, gentle rides for the kiddos. Lots of games on every corner and what carnival is complete without FAIR FOOD! Funnel cakes, corn dogs, hot dogs, french fries, cotton candy and so much more! My mouth is watering just thinking about. Even if you don’t like the rides, go for the food. Admission into the gates is free so you can go just to sample all the yummy concoctions. If you are the thrill seeker, an unlimited rides wristband is only $25, plus on Saturday from 11am – noon, all rides are free! Pack up the family and go!
In the powerful production of "The Women," the Liberty Theatre sets out to celebrate and educate audiences on the many contributions, struggles, and triumphs women have made throughout history. The Women features scenes and songs from classics like Sophisticated Ladies, Dreamgirls, Ain’t Misbehaving and Doubt as well as original works. Each production will have a post-show discussion with local women who are making a difference in our community each day. These women will offer pearls of wisdom, feedback on the production and insights from their own personal life journeys. Both inspiring and motivational, this would be a great girls night out.
And for a little something to look forward to on Monday (Apr 8 at 5:00 pm), you can join CSU Schwob School of Music students in a unique experience of collaboration under the direction of distinguished faculty. Show takes place in Studio Theatre at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. You gotta love this part...admission is free!
Lots to do, so start making your plans!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
It’s a Happy Easter Weekend in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, on Friday, March 29, 2013 | Permalink
Wishing everyone a Happy Easter this weekend and if you're looking for stuff to do with family, there's plenty going on! We'll give you a few ideas here, but don't forget to check the Event Calendar to find out more.
Don’t miss the last weekend of Cotton Patch Gospel at the Springer Opera House! This fun musical that tells the “Gospel of Matthew” but the gospel is set in modern day times in rural Georgia. Jesus is born the son of a carpenter in Gainesville, meets a country preacher named John the Baptizer on the banks of the Chattahoochee River and delivers the Sermon on the Mount at Stone Mountain Park. Featuring Ron Anderson as Matthew and the Justice Bluegrass Band, and with music by the late, great Harry Chapin, you will definitely be entertained. This show delivers a feeling of childlike belief, wonder and reverence. A great way to spend some time with the family on Easter weekend!
Well, the Easter Bunny is definitely earning his paycheck this weekend. He’ll be very busy as all the Easter activities and egg hunts get underway. On Saturday, March 30, Florence Marina will host their Annual Easter Egg Hunt from 1-3pm. They’ll have both candy eggs and prize eggs for three age groups ranging from 1 – 10 years old. Bring the kids and their baskets and enjoy the day! If you’re headed north, Callaway Gardens also has an Egg Hunt on Saturday from 2pm-4pm at Robin Lake Beach. The Easter Bunny will be there to pose for pictures. And on Sunday, in Uptown Columbus in Woodruff Park, it’s a HUGE Easter Celebration! Starting at 12:30pm, there will be a helicopter egg drop delivering over 15,000 Easter Eggs. With a special visit from the Easter Bunny, music and games for the whole family and food vendors on site, it’s a great way to spend the day!
Beautiful music is good for the soul. And there will be an abundance of it this Saturday night at RiverCenter as the Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents This Precious Stone, This England. This concert features renowned violinist Jennifer Frautschi. The audience will enjoy Elgar’s Violin Concerto in B Minor and Vaughan Williams Symphony No. 2, “A London Symphony.” These two works are both by English composers and both were written in the early part of the 20th century. Vaughan Williams’ symphony brings to mind London in the early 19000’s including references to Big Ben and a chilly town square on a November afternoon. To learn more about the music, be there early for Know the Score with conductor George Del Gobbo.
The Southern Literary Festival is an organization of colleges and schools founded to promote southern literature. Every year a different school hosts the event, which is an undergraduate writing conference with workshops and a writing. But if you’re not a student, don’t worry! There are some public readings and events you can attend. Tonight (3.29), there will be a public reading by acclaimed American novelist, Tim O’Brien, of his novel, “The Things They Carried” at the Springer Opera House at 7:30pm. On Saturday, March 30, Pulitzer Prize winning poet Natasha Tretheway, also the current poet laureate of the U.S. and award-winning poet, Dan Albergotti, will conduct a poetry discussion panel and reading at the CSU Riverside Theatre Complex. These public events are FREE!
On Saturday, March 30, from 10am to noon, join Oxbow Meadows for their latest animal and art program, Colorful Creations! This time there will be a 30-minute program about butterflies followed by an hour-long art class. It’s open to kids age 6 and up and the cost is $15 per child.
Looks like there is plenty to do this holiday weekend...make it a safe and happy one!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Spring has Sprung in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Thursday, March 21, 2013 | Permalink
It's the first weekend of Spring so that means it's time to get out and enjoy! What's going on this weekend? Glad you asked. Here's a short list of some of the things I've heard about, but you also need to check the Event Calendar to see all the things to choose from.
We have lots of organized runs and walks in Columbus, but this is unlike anything I’ve ever heard of! It’s called “Color Me Rad” and it’s a 5k run taking place in Uptown Columbus. What sets this run apart is the word ‘color’ in the title. Runners take off at 8:00 Saturday morning and that’s when the color bombs start flying! Waves of runners will get plastered with colorful cornstarch every 5 minutes so by the time they are done running, they’ll look like a kindergarten art class gone wrong! This is the first time this type of race has ever been held here and there’s a lot of buzz…in fact, estimates are there will be about 4,000 runners! If you want to run, you can still sign up the morning of, but with that many folks, go early! Even if you aren’t a runner, this is going to be fun to watch! Children’s Miracle Network is the benefiting charity.
Don’t leave your 4-legged buddies out of the fun this weekend! In fact, there is an event just for them! Bark for Life is coming up this Sunday at Britt David Park and it is a big party and doggie play date with food, fun, games contests and demonstrations. The day starts off with a non-competitive walk for dogs and their owners, followed by all the other fun. This is kind of a canine version of the Relay for Life and even though it will be a lot of fun for the pup-dogs and us humans, we can’t forget that this is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. You can still pre-register today or sign up on site on Sunday. This is also a really nice thing to do if you want to walk in honor of someone who is fighting…and hopefully winning…the battle against cancer!
Here’s another ArtBeat of Columbus event going on this weekend. It’s the Howard Ave Art Festival this Sunday from 1:00-5:00pm and they’ll have all sorts of musicians and artists from this area with handmade crafts, face painting & children’s area, interactive art activities for folks of all ages. Sounds like a pretty cool lineup of rockabilly, groove and jazz music on tap, too! Free and open to the public.
With Spring busting out all over, you know it’s festival time, so here is another one you might want to check out! Florence Marina State Park is having their annual Festival by the Lake Craft Day this Saturday. Now, when they say crafts, it may not be exactly what you’re thinking because they’ll have craftsmen showing off their skills in blacksmithing, flint-napping, knife making, wood carvers, rug makers, story-tellers, quilts, and candle dipping. They’ll even have info on bee keeping and all sorts of crafts on sale, not to mention a fishing booth, face-painting, and even a ride-the-bull game! And no festival is complete without live entertainment and some good eats. Or you can pack your own picnic basket and have a spread on one of their lakeside picnic tables!
There's also the annual Kaleidoscope Concert this Saturday night at RiverCenter. This performance is pretty unique because it showcases all 240 student musicians from CSU's Schwob School of Music and they’ll be performing a really fast-paced, high energy 70-minute concert that will include all sorts of musical styles. And this is pretty cool…they are dedicating the performance to our military troops! By the way, this is another ArtBeat of Columbus event.
And, if you’re looking for one more reason to get outside this weekend or maybe you have a love for horses, then head to Poplar Place Farms because beginning today and going through Sunday, it’s the largest event they have all year! Look for more than 450 horses in events that include show jumping, dressage and cross-country. The farm is located just off Highway 27, just before you get to Hamilton.
Yep, looks like Spring has Sprung!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Goodbye Winter! Time for Spring Fun in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, on Thursday, March 14, 2013 | Permalink
Finally. It's the last weekend of winter but if you check the Event Calendar, you'd think it was already spring with all of the events happening this weekend! Take a look at just a few of the things going on...there is a huge selection of things to do, so get busy making some weekend plans.
First up, Friday night (3.15) brings us one the biggets and most fun fundraisers all year. It's Toast of the Town at RiverMill Event Center and it's all to benefit the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. By attending, you'll be helping to support a great organization...not to mention the fact that you'll get to sample tastings from some of the finest chefs in our region, quench your thirst with samplings from vineyards, breweries and distilleries---you know, adult libations--there's live music, silent auction and just a whole lot of fun!
Another big annual event you don’t want to miss this Saturday (3.16) is the big RiverBlast event at Port Columbus! This is a really cool interactive living history event and each year they have a different theme about the Civil War. Ladies…you’re going to really appreciate this one! It’s all about the Columbus Women’s Riot of April 11, 1863. A bunch of women got together to demonstrate how ticked off they were about high prices and scarcity of goods and they armed themselves with knives and pistols and marched on Broadway! Find out more about that and you can also check out the symposium that will talk about how all Columbus citizens dealt with the hardship of war, plus they’ll be have lots happening on the grounds of the museum with drills, encampments, programs on the Water Witch, and of course, cannon firings!
Here’s a great way to help out a wonderful organization…PAWS Humane…wet your whistle with some cold brew, and maybe even find your four-legged forever-friend with the pet adoptions at the Stage on Broadway this Friday night! It’s the Pints for PAWS Bar Crawl Fundraiser where $1 from each wristband purchased for the Downtown Nightlife Association’s Bar Crawl will go to PAWS Humane. Starts at 7:30pm.
Disney on Ice is back at the Columbus Civic Center and it looks like this show is bigger and better than ever! It’s called “Worlds of Fantasy” and it features four of everybody’s favorite Disney stories. You’ve got high-speed stunts with Lightning McQueen, Mater and the crew from Cars; the Little Mermaid will be there with her undersea kingdom; then we’ll head to Pixie Hollow with Tinker Bell and all of her friends; then finally, the whole gang from Toy Story decides to bust out of Sunnyside Daycare and head for home! Shows run Friday through Sunday.
No matter who you are, it seems we all claim to be a little Irish on St. Patrick’s, so that means we’ll all enjoy this “Luck of the Irish Pops Concert” at the Trade Center this Sunday (3.17)! But it gets even better…you don’t just get to hear some toe-tapping Irish music as performed buy the incomparable Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus, but you even get to enjoy an elegant lunch buffet…that means you don’t have to cook Sunday lunch! So if you love traditional Irish music, or some of the more contemporary pieces you might hear on Lord of the Dance, or just love some good, old-fashioned Irish fiddling, you’ll love this!
And finally, well, I can attest to this one firsthand! It’s one of the most fun productions the Springer Opera House has ever done and if you are the slightest bit of a Beatles fan, you MUST go see this show!! It's called "Yesterday & Today: An Interactive Beatles Experience" and you only have two more opportunities to see it…tonight and Saturday night. By the time they sang the last song, everyone in the theatre was on their feet dancing and singing! Tickets range from $15-$35.
I'm off to kiss winter goodbye and get ready for all of the events happening here this spring.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
What to do this Weekend in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, Shopping, on Friday, March 8, 2013 | Permalink
Check the clock, the weekend is staring us in the face so it's time we start making some plans for fun. And speaking of clocks, don't forget this is the weekend to "spring forward," so set your clocks one hour ahead before you go to bed Saturday night. That means we've got even less time to cram in all this weekend fun! Here's a look at a couple of things you might want to do.
You only have two more weekends to see the show that Sherlock’s Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre is putting on at the Columbus Marriott and tickets are going fast…in fact, performances keep selling out! In this show, it's a celebration of the 100th birthday of the Godfather, Don Cannoli Tortellini Pimento Clamato and the time has come to name his successor. Who will he choose? Or will the ruthless Ravioli family make their mover to take over before the old man has a chance to make his decision. Everybody will love this hilarious spoof on your favorite mafia movies! Remember, it’s only showing this weekend and next and I’m really not exaggerating…shows have been selling out really fast!
Besides checking the clock, you might also want to check the calendar because Spring is only 12 days away! And you can also tell it's on the way because it’s time for the Chattahoochee Valley Camellia Society’s 2013 Camellia Show at the Columbus Museum. All the gorgeous blooms will be on display this weekend (Mar 9 & 10) and spectators as well as competitors are welcome. It’s open to the public and free of charge! In addition to viewing the breathtaking blooms entered in the show, you can take advantage of the many exciting exhibits at the Columbus Museum, such as Homer in America and Parasols, Purses, and Petticoats, as well as take a stroll through the lovely Olmstead Garden. The 2012 show brought over 1,000 patrons and more than 850 spectacular blooms and this year should be even bigger. County Line Nursery will be on sit on Saturday with Camellia plants for sale! No admission on this one.
I can tell you from first hand experience that if you have not yet seen Yesterday and Today: The Beatles Interactive Experience at the Springer Opera House, you must go! You will not regret it! And if you’ve already seen and you’re like me, you are trying to get a babysitter so you can go again. It is a fantastic show! The McGuigan Brothers were phenomenal. The storytelling was great, the music was awesome. People were up dancing in the aisles. These brothers spent years perfecting every song in the Beatles catalogue and they did a great job. The show is built on audience requests so every performance is different. When I went, there were people in the audience from 10 years to 85 years old, which really tells you that this music reaches across all generations. GO SEE THIS ONE!!
Other things you might want to put on your list to do this weekend include a performance with The Family Theatre called "The Mousetrap," great music with the Columbus Jazz Society's Jazz Jam this Sunday night at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, and a cool wildlife crafts class at FDR State Park.
Don't forget to take a look at the Event Calendar to get the big picture of all the events going on this weekend.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Who Else is in Need of Some Weekend Fun?
Arts, Events, Good Eats!, Ft. Benning-Military, Shopping, on Thursday, February 28, 2013 | Permalink
Anyone? Anyone? Yep, that's what I thought...we all are in need of a little fun this weekend. How about a couple of ideas of things you might like to check out? Oh, and don't forget to take a look at the Event Calendar because there's a lot of good info there.
Wednesday afternoon I was walking back to my office from a meeting and when I turned the corner to walk past the Springer Opera House, how excited was I to hear Beatles tunes being blasted from the balcony!? They are getting us all in the mood for the show that opened last night called “Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience.” Now, this isn’t just another bunch of guys who dress up and sort of sound like the Beatles…these guys are being called America’s foremost Beatles virtuosos. They don’t dress up or look like John, Paul, George (my first love), or Ringo, but they have spent years perfecting the entire Beatles catalogue note for note and producing a harmony that just won’t wait! And something really cool about this performance, the audience helps create the playlist every night so each show is different!
If you check the calendar, Spring is only 19 days away! That means of course some serious Spring cleaning and sprucing up around the house. If you’ve got some ideas of things you’d like to do around your house or need some ideas, head to the 2013 Home and Garden Show at the Trade Center this weekend. They’ll have tons of local and regional vendors set up with products for the home and lawn and garden all under one big roof. Plus, they’ll have a big selection of plants and flowers and other merchandise you might just have to take home with you. The cool thing about this show is that they aren’t there just to sell you some product, but they’ll have plenty of seminars and demonstrations to show you just how to complete your projects. You can even bring the kids to this one because they’ll have lots of activities for them. You’ll even have a chance to win some door prizes!
I know this is one that guys just won’t get, but ladies are going to love it! The Columbus Museum is having a really unique shopping experience going on today only called the Accessories Boutique. See, we ladies know that you can go out and buy a pair of black pants and a white shirt and keep it in your wardrobe forever because the trick is to accessorize! Finding the perfect piece or pieces of jewelry, a vintage handbag, a wrap, a hat or shoes can completely transform any outfit, so really…you’re saving yourself lots of money not buying new clothes! Hey, when it comes to shopping, I can come up with any story to rationalize a new handbag! They'll even have an expert stylist on hand to help you pick out the perfect pieces. This ties in nicely with the exhibit going on called “Parasols, Purses, and Petticoats” so take some time and check it out while you’re there. A portion of all proceeds benefit the Museum.
Also put on your radar to head to Oxbow Meadows for their Saturday Reading Club for Kids, the Benning Bazaar at Ft. Benning's Building 4, or Gilbert & Sullivan's "The Mikado" at RiverCenter for one show only Saturday night.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
It’s the Weekend! Got Fun?
Arts, Events, History, on Friday, February 22, 2013 | Permalink
So, if you haven't already started making your weekend plans, what are you waiting for?! You can get a headstart by checking out the Event Calendar--it's full of all sorts of details about things happening in and around Columbus. And maybe I can tease you with a couple of things I've heard about that's happening this weekend.
If you want to see good theatre, go see Clybourne Park at the Liberty Theatre this weekend. A spin-off of A Raisin in the Sun, this sharp production takes a jab at race and real estate in a Chicago neighborhood. The play begins in 1959 as a black family moves into a white neighborhood and Act 2 brings you back to the same house in 2009 as gentrification sets in and the roles are reversed. (There is some strong language that’s not suitable for kids!) It's being performed this Friday, Saturday (2 shows) and Sunday (Feb 22-24) and admission is only $15.
Jeff Dunham launches his all new Disorderly Conduct tour in Columbus this Saturday (Feb. 23) at the Civic Center. Get ready to laugh, laugh and laugh some more as you meet his cast of characters, Walter the Grumpy Retiree, Achmed the Dead Terrorist, the beer-fueled redneck Bubba J, the manic purple creature Peanut, the spicy pepper from south of the border Jose Jalapeno, and Peanut’s own ventriloquist dummy, Little Jeff, a mini version of the ring leader himself. New York Times Magazine recently declared Jeff Dunham “the most successful comedian working in America.” With his all-star lineup of characters, you are sure to get your ab workout in for the weekend!
Speaking of a different type of comic…It’s time for the Annual Columbus Comic Book Show at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center. Shop for comics, toys, collector items and more! Admission is $4. Time is from 11am to 4pm on Sunday, February 24.
We’ll celebrate Arbor Day here in Columbus this Saturday (Feb 23)! Arbor Day is nationally observed as a day to encourage tree planting and tree care and since we’re celebrating 35 years as Georgia’s first Tree City USA, a big bash is appropriate. Bring the family out to Lakebottom Park tomorrow from 11am – 1pm. There will be fun hands-on activities, animals from Oxbow Meadows, bucket truck rides, environmental exhibits, and Country’s Barbecue will be on site selling lunch. The Urban Forest and Beautification Department will be giving out free tree seedlings so you can take them home and plant your own tree! It’s a great way to spend the day with the kids and teach them the importance of taking care of nature!
As we get closer and closer to wedding season, it’s time for all those bride-to-be’s to get serious about planning! This Sunday, the National Infantry Museum invites you to enjoy a spectacular evening of magic and romance as you prepare for your big day. Their event staff and dozens of the Southeast’s top wedding professionals will have transformed the museum into a world of fantastic color, elegant couture and succulent cuisine. You’ll meet photographers, caterers, planners, florists, and more..all who will help you to make your dream wedding come true! And earlier that day, from 1-5pm, (which works out perfectly) you can attend the Ultimate Bridal Expo at Rivermill Event Centre. $3-$5 to get in and you’ll meet more wedding professionals and enjoy free samples, food, door prizes and more!
And hopefully the weather will cooperate so we can join the staff at Providence Canyon this Saturday, February 23 from 11am to 1pm for Geology Day in the canyons. Learn how the canyons were formed as well as other history. Make sure you wear good hiking shoes and bring some water!
Don't forget to check out the Event Calendar to find more info on these events and plenty of others.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Rain, Rain Stay Away! We need some time to get out and Play!
Arts, Events, History, History, Ft. Benning-Military, on Thursday, February 14, 2013 | Permalink
Maybe it's because we're in the dead of winter. Or because it's been sooooo cloudy this week. Or maybe because we've had enough rain to get us all thinking about ark-building. Whatever the reason, it's felt like an awfully long week! Anybody else feel a desperate need to get out and have some fun this weekend? I thought as much, so here's a quick look at a few of the happenings, but make sure you take a peek at the Event Calendar to get an idea of everything that's going on this weekend.
As you know, February is Black History Month and the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus will have special programming called "Black in Blue" this Saturday at the museum to celebrate. You’ll hear stories of African Americans who served or were affected by the Navies during the Civil War, both Union and Confederate, of slaves and former slaves who fought on opposing sides in the Civil War Navies. The program kicks off this Saturday (Feb 16) at 1:30pm.
The Columbus Museum just opened a new exhibit and I can’t wait to go see it! It's called "Parasols, Purses and Petticoats" and apparently, accessories aren’t just beautiful but can serve other functions as well. Who knew! This exhibit draws from the Museum’s extensive costume collection and is the first-ever installation devoted completely to accessories. It features fans, parasols, purses, jewelry, bonnets, shawls, capes, even foundation garments and of course, shoes! There will even be examples that visitors can try on. Remember, admission to the Columbus Museum is always free!
There are a couple of cool things going on at Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center this weekend. First up is Oxbow Meadows Saturday Reading Club that takes place every Saturday for story time at 11am. A $1 donation earns your child a show with pictures, puppets or skits plus a membership card. After 10 visits, you child’s card can be redeemed for a gift from the gift shop!
Also at Oxbow this Saturday, it’s all about the birds with their Great Backyard Bird Count. With a full day of programming it’s perfect for the entire family. All attendees will receive a free binocular rental so you can help conduct an official count of birds at Oxbow Meadows. You’ll also receive a free copy of Bird Watching for Dummies. You've already read about kids can participating in Oxbow’s Reading Club ($1) from 11am-11:30am, but also from 1pm to 2pm, kids of all ages are invited to make peanut butter bird feeders to hang around Oxbow or take home and put in your own backyard ($2) and from 2-4pm, Glenda Merrill will give a special presentation for beginning birders ($3).
And speaking of kids, don’t let them lie around on the couch all day and drive you crazy when they’re off for President’s Day! Take them to the National Infantry Museum for the Presidents Day Birthday Bash Mini Camp. Kids aged 6-11 will learn fun facts about our nation’s Presidents, enjoy hands-on activities, refreshments and a tour. Space is limited so register your kid today!
The Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus is putting on a show for us this Saturday night beginning at 7:30. The youth symphony orchestra students will work with professional musicians from the Columbus Symphony Orchestra in all-day master classes and rehearsals. It’s pretty intense! Afterwards they will put on a concert featuring the combined orchestras conducted by George Del Gobbo and Jim Palmer. The concert, called "Side by Side” is free and open to the public!
Let's cross our fingers for nice sunny weather this weekend so we can get out and enjoy all of this!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
It’s Time for “Sweet” Weekend Fun in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Friday, February 8, 2013 | Permalink
I took a look at the Event Calendar and can't believe (OK, yes I can believe it!) all the good stuff going on this weekend and next week for Valentine's Day! If you haven't made any weekend plans or need some ideas for something special to do with your hun-bun on Valentine's Day, maybe this will help.
Now, before I get all carried away with what a fun event this one is, more importantly, it’s a tremendous fundraiser for the Columbus Hospice Pet Piece of Mind Program. It provides veterinary & grooming services, and pet food for their patient’s needs. So the event itself is called Purse Party for Pets and it is one big party! I went with my buddy Helen last year and we giggled from the time it started until it was all over. Not only did I come home with a vintage Chanel handbag that was in my price range, but we were thoroughly entertained be the local male celebrities who modeled the handbags! If you’ve never seen Councilor Pops Barnes strut his stuff on the catwalk slinging a leather clutch bag—you just haven’t lived! Plus, there’re all sorts of great party food and champagne, as well as a silent auction. It's all happening at the Green Island Country Club beginning at 11:00am on Saturday (Feb 9).
Here’s something else that if you haven’t done yet, well you’re really missing out! Sherlock’s Mystery Dinner Theatre is kicking off another season with a killer (get it?!) performance called “The Godfather Murders.” Seems it’s the 100th birthday celebration of the Godfather, Don Cannoli Tortellini Pimento Clamato and the time has come for him to name a successor. Who’s he going to choose? Or will the ruthless Ravioli family make their move before he has a chance to make a move? Everybody in the audience (that's you!) wants a piece of the action and gets to be a part of the fun. This is great date-night potential because not only will you be entertained, but you get to have a delicious meal with fancy salad, steak and all the fixins for the main course, and dessert. Word of warning, tickets are going really quickly for this—tonight’s show is full and there are only a handful of seats left for Saturday. There’s also next weekend and a special show on Valentine's night!
Here’s a nice way to wind down the weekend! The Columbus Jazz Society presents the Lou Vallee Four with Suzanne Swann this Sunday at St. Thomas Episcopal Church from 6:00-9:00pm. Admission is only $10.
Ok, normally we talk about things happening over the weekend, but I have to tell you about a couple of events coming up next week for Valentine’s Day! If you’ve got a special someone, celebrate it! So here are a couple of ideas for you to start planning for...and yes, guys, I'm talking to you! First up, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra has a performance called “A Charlie Chaplin Valentine’s” where they are going to show the classic black & white film “The Circus” and the CSO will play live in the orchestra pit to accompany the movie. I went to one of these a few years ago and it was really cool…you get completely caught up in the movie and the music!
How about seeing the classic film, Casablanca? The Springer Opera House is having one of their special movie screenings on Valentine's Day and this is another great idea for a special date night…or if you just love the movie and want to see it on the big screen. If you’ve never seen it before, a real quick synopsis: Set in unoccupied Africa during the early days of World War II: An American expatriate meets a former lover, with unforeseen complications. All we need now is a piano playing to really set the mood! Get there a little early for concessions because the Saloon opens at 6:30pm.
And to conteract all the chocolate hearts and Kisses we'll be consuming this holiday, we might need/want to check this one out! You don’t have to wait until Valentine’s Day to start the fun…you can compete with your special someone in the Big Dog Valentine’s Couples 5-K Relay! There are 8 divisions…husband/wife, dads/daughters, mothers/sons, etc. Cost to join in the fun is $50 and that includes 2 race shirts and a post-race spread at Iron Bank Coffee Company! Race kicks off this Saturday (Feb 9) at 5:00pm.
Well, there's a quick tease with a few of the events this weekend...time to make some choices!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Time for a Dose of Winter Fun in Columbus, GA!
Arts, Events, History, on Friday, February 1, 2013 | Permalink
It may have gotten a little cooler outside...hey, it is February...but that's not going to stop us from having some fun this weekend! If you want a good look at what's happening, head to the Event Calendar for a complete listing or read on for a quick look at a couple of things going on in and around Columbus.
The other morning I saw the commercial for the performance coming up at the RiverCenter tonight called MOMIX: Botanica and became absolutely mesmerized by the images of the performers! And then I thought…how do you describe something so unusual? So I went on the MOMIX website and they summed it up really well by explaining that it’s a company of dancer-illusionists who present a work of exceptional inventiveness and physical beauty. It isn’t ballet or modern dance or mime...it’s something totally unique and one of those things you just have to see and experience in person to really get a feel for the unbelievable talent these performers possess. In this performance, it’s all about nature’s ever-changing spectacle. Great for the whole family! Show starts at 7:30pm.
I finally took the plunge and treated myself to a real digital camera for Christmas and I’ve gotten as far as getting it out of the box and attaching the neck strap! If you’re new to the world of digital SLR cameras and want to find out what all those buttons and dials mean, they're having a great class at Callaway Gardens this Saturday (Feb 2) all about Foundations in Digital Photography and what to do once you get brave enough to take it out of the auto mode! Reservations required, make sure you take your camera, owner’s manual, charged batteries and storage media. And also plan to dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes because you aren’t going to be stuck in a classroom…you’re registration includes admission into the Gardens and your instructor will have you out in the real world so you can learn by doing. You even get lunch with your registration!
It’s the last in the series of Drop-In Tours at the Columbus Museum. This Saturday starting at 2:00pm, you can take a one-hour tour of the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions with a weekend gallery guide. It's really cool to hear some of the back stories on these works of art. Best of all…it’s free and no registration is required!
If you haven’t had a chance to catch a performance “Steel Magnolias” at the Springer Opera House, better call and get tickets now because the last shows are this Friday (Feb 1) and Saturday (Feb 2) nights at 7:30pm! The movie was great, but it’s even better to watch this story come alive on stage!
Here’s an event that is especially for girls ages 6-12 who love softball. There’s a free softball clinic this Saturday at the South Commons Softball Complex, but this isn’t just any clinic…this one features two-time Olympic gold medalist and ESPN softball announcer Michele Smith! She is an absolute legend in the world of fast-pitch softball and if your daughter has ever wanted to learn more and improve her game, here’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn from one of the best ever in the sport. She played on the gold medal teams from the 1996 (held here in Columbus!) and the 2000 Olympics and she was inducted into the ASA Softball Hall of Fame in 2006. Just make sure your girls bring a bat, a glove and be ready to learn and have fun! Clinic kicks off at 9:00am.
Admittedly, I don’t know that much about Clifford The Big Red Dog, but I do know that he turned 50 in 2012 and he is still celebrating! And we all have a chance to celebrate with him and all of his friends at RiverCenter with the big live show they’ve been doing all over the country. It’s actually an Emmy-Award nominate show and it’s full of all sorts of new music and the whole gang is there including his best buddy Emily Elizabeth. They go on a journey to Birdwell Island for all sorts of adventures with their friends Cleo, T-Bone, Charley, Jetta and Mac. And they’ll also share some of Clifford’s BE BIG Ideas like Help Others, Work Together, Believe in Yourself and Share…something adults might need to hear just as much as the kids in the audience! Be prepared for all sorts of laughter, music and dancing everyone in the family will enjoy!
Well, that should be enough info to get you started making some weekend plans. Don't forget to take a look at the Event Calendar to get even more ideas.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Time to Start the Weekend in Columbus, GA…Now!!
Arts, Events, Shopping, on Thursday, January 24, 2013 | Permalink
There's no time like the present, so I vote we go ahead and get this weekend started. There's lots to get out and do...if you want to see so yourself, just head to the Event Calendar and take a look!
“I’m not crazy…I’ve just been in a bad mood for 40 years.” Now this movie has a lot of great lines, but that may be one of the best. Of course, I'm also partial to "Drink your juice, Shelby!" Steel Magnolias will be brought to life on stage at the Springer Opera House and I don’t care how many times you’ve seen the movie, it won’t compare to seeing it on stage. And if you’ve got a case of the winter blues, this will definitely cure it! Talk about an ab workout! You’ll be hurting the next day from all the laughing you’ll be doing. I wouldn’t wait to get tickets…I bought mine this week and I can tell you, they are going fast! They even extended the show dates to keep up with the demand. I can’t think of a better girl's night out!
Talk about a great weekend for theatre! Based on the hit film and the true story that inspired it, Catch Me If You Can is a high-flying, splashy new Broadway musical and it’s coming to Columbus at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. This very entertaining performance tells the story of Frank W. Abagnale, Jr., a teenager who runs away from home in search of the glamorous life. With nothing more than his charm, imagination and millions of dollars in forged checks, Frank poses as a pilot, doctor and lawyer, living the life and winning the girl of his dreams. But his lies catch the attention of FBI agent Carl Hanratty who chases Frank to the end. It’s a big-hearted story about being young, in love and in deep, deep trouble!
Like a good deal? Then you need to stop by the Columbus Museum Gift Shop Friday (Jan 25) because until 4:30 pm it's their Winter Book Sale and all of their books are 30% off and you’ll receive a FREE book with any book purchase. They have some very interesting and beautiful books as well as all kinds of other unique items, Call 706.748.2562 for more information.
We’re 4 weeks into the new year and I hope everyone’s been good about keeping those resolutions to stay healthy. If you need a little motivation, listen up! This SAT is the 2013 Columbus Health Expo at the Columbus Convention & Trade Center. This is a great opportunity to have certain screenings done…at no charge. This is for adults only and no screenings are provided for children. The most popular are Bone Density, Body Fat Analysis, Hearing and Vision Screening, Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Checks. On average over $1,000 in medical screenings are provided at no charge. Lines are usually long so get there early to have time to get in all the screenings you want. Admissions for screenings ends at 1:30pm and the event ends at 2pm.
Warm Up America is a knitting and crocheting charity that provides afghans to the homeless. They meet every 4th Saturday of the month at Hobby Lobby and ask volunteers to donate their time, talent and materials to crochet or knit 7 X 9 squares and then 4 times a year they put the squares together to make afghans. The afghans must be donated to an organization that serves the homeless, for example Valley Rescue Mission, Hope Harbor, American Red Cross, just to name a few. They have donated over 2,500 afghans since 2002! If you can’t make one of their scheduled meetings, you can donate the squares or yarn, but the meetings themselves are fun with refreshments and door prizes.
And don't forget about “The Lab Open Mic and Poetry Slam” at the Liberty Theatre. Local talent (ages 18+) of all genres (spoken word, music, theatre, etc…) are invited to come out and express themselves at the Liberty Theatre this Saturday at 6:30pm. Poets should have 2 original poems no longer than 3 minutes each prepared. Only the first 10 poets signed up will be allowed to compete. The top 2 will advance to the April 27th finals. Cost is $5 to watch or $3 to perform.
Pretty cool stuff, huh? You just need to figure out which one you want to do first!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
New overwatch mission @ nim sim. Grand reopening is THIS FRIDAY! Read more: link details
Come to Columbus, GA this weekend for an urban whitewater experience! link details
Philly cheesesteak anyone? Meet me at Philly-Osophy for lunch! link details
Springer Opera House is showing classic movies Thur - Sat. link details
Get out and raft the longest urban whitewater course in the world in Columbus, GA. details