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Let the Weekend Begin in Columbus, GA!
Not that I'm counting the hours or anything, but there's so much good stuff going on this weekend that it's time to get this thing started. It would take up too much space here to try and give you the rundown on everything going on, so you may want to check out the Community Calendar to get a better look.
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 all day Saturday and Sunday. Tons and tons of vendors with anything from pottery, jewelry, antiques, loads of entertainment, and the reason most of us go...the FOOD. Here's a tip, skip dinner the night before and breakfast the day of so you can eat all the good stuff you want and you won't feel guilty!
There aren’t many places in this world where you can get something for free, but that’s exactly what’s going on this Saturday at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center with their Free Comic Book Day! Not only will you get a free comic book, but they’ve got a day full of fun stuff lined up like a costume contest, quick draw contest, you get to do some gazing at the sun (without damaging your eyes!), door prizes, you can shop for new comic books to add to your collection, and what sounds to me like the absolute coolest activity of the day……Reading with a Super Hero!!!
The Columbus Lions are playing some great arena football this season and it looks like an intense game shaping up at the Civic Center this Sunday at 4:00pm as they take on in-state rivals the Albany Panthers!
Headed back north a bit, chances are you’ll be passing through Warm Springs on your way to the Cotton Pickin’ Fair, so tack on some extra time to stop in and join the celebration at the Little White House! It was in May of 1932 that Franklin Roosevelt celebrated the completion of his cottage with a housewarming. Fast-forward 80 years and check out this reenactment of that celebrationthis Saturday! There will be an actor on hand portraying Pres. Roosevelt, as well as live music from the 30s and 40s, lemonade and cookies, even down to the smallest detail of being able to join in on an old-fashioned game of croquet on the lawn!
It’s no secret that I am obsessed with the Springer Opera House’s annual production of “A Tuna Christmas.” I don’t think I’ve missed a year yet, so when I heard about this brand new production this season, I did the proverbial Happy Dance! How just two actors…in this case Paul Pierce and Ron Anderson…can bring so much personality to so many characters is beyond me. Well, now we get to see the rest of the story and find out what’s been happening in the third smallest town in Texas. In case you haven’t heard, Bertha and that no-good husband of hers, Arles are headed to Las Vegas to renew their wedding vows & it turns out the whole town of Tuna tags along with them! They meet some new friends along the way…a mind-reading mystic named Anna Conda, a mafia thug, and a couple of Elvis impersonators. They actually come home wiser, happier & richer! I've got to see this...
That should get you started trying to figure out what you want to put on your weekend to-do list. Don't forget to breeze through the Community Calendar to find out more.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Friday, May 4, 2012
Get your Play Clothes on because it’s Weekend Time in Columbus, GA!
Just checked the weekend forecast and I'm certainly no meteorologist, but even I can tell this looks like a perfect weekend to get out and have some Springtime fun! And just in case you're wondering if there is anything going on, boy did you come to the right place. I was taking a look at the Community Calendar and there is no shortage of things to get into this weekend. Here are just a couple of things you might want to add to your "To Do" list!
If you love barbeque, great music, games and good times down by the river, you’re going to love this! It’s the “Uptown Bash on the Banks” and it all happening tonight and all day tomorrow on Bay Avenue along the RiverWalk. Everything kicks off Friday night at 6:00pm with the 5th Annual Char-Broil Pig Bowl People’s Choice Awards—that means you get to sample some FINE bbq, wine tasting, music from Mudcat—a great blues band out of Atlanta and a Corn Hole tournament. Then on Saturday, the day kicks off with the Big Cat Quest Fishing Tournament, there’s the Columbus Police Department Car Show, the Kansas City Barbeque Society sanctioned cook-off—hosting many of the top professional BBQ cooing teams in the southeast!—kayak demonstrations, more live music and tons more! It's all taking place on Bay Avenue in Uptown Columbus and admission is free.
It doesn’t get any ‘cooler’ than this! Disney on Ice is bringing a spectacular show to the Civic Center called Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey. This is another great way to kick off the weekend, but it runs through Sunday, so hopefully you can pile up the kids in the car and catch this show before the weekend is over. Looks like all the cool folks will be there—besides Minnie & Mickey, there’s also Ariel and Sebastian from the Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Peter Pan & Tinkerbell, and Lilo & Stitch. Lots of great music, costumes, neat stories and of course, some incredible skating! Admission ranges from $15-$40.
Don't forget Market Days is going on Saturday from 9:00am-12:00pm and you’ll find all sorts of locally grown fruits, veggies and flowers as well as art and handcrafted items! Look for it in the 1000 and 1100 blocks of Broadway in Uptown Columbus.
Looks like a really full day of fun just south of Columbus in Lumpkin, GA with their Spring Celebration! They are packing tons of stuff in on Saturday including arts & crafts, carnival rides like the inflatable slide, the whirly bird, the merry to round, the striker; and a balloon & dart game, not to mention raffles, lots of live entertainment, and there will even be a street dance that night! Back to the music, they are planning on having gospel, country, R&B, and jazz…in fact the Army Jazz Band will be performing in the afternoon and Lou Vallee & Suzanne Swan from the Columbus Jazz Society will also be taking the stage! This is a fundraiser for Lumpkin’s Downtown Development Authority. Believe it or not, admission to all of this is free, but donations are welcome!
With a name like “Spring Chicken Fling,” this has got to be good! This is an annual event put on by Northside High School’s Band. Saturday from 11:00am-3:00pm, they’ll have the Band Shell at Lakebottom Park set up with lots of great live music from bands like The Bob Barr Band, several of the bands from Northside and even schools like Blackmon Road, Midland and Double Churches. They'll entertain us while we pig out on lunch provided by Huckleberry’s BBQ and it’s a great deal! For just $8 bucks you get ½ a chicken, baked beans, potato salad and Texas toast.
I'm hungry just thinking about all the barbeque being cooked up for us this weekend!
And finally, if you’ve ever been curious about what loft living would be like, here’s your chance! Check out the 2nd Annual Uptown Loft Tour this Saturday from 10:00am-5:00pm and get a peek inside these really unique places to call home. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased the day of the tour at Eagle & Phenix Mill or Eleventh Street Lofts. Proceeds benefit UpTown Columbus.
Rest up so you'll be ready for this full weekend...there's something for everyone going on!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, River Fun, Shopping, on Thursday, April 26, 2012
The Weekend is about to get underway in Columbus, GA!
Check the clock on the wall...we aren't that far from the beginning of the weekend, so hang in there because there is plenty to get out and do this weekend. I've got a few ideas for you here, but I'd also suggest checking out the Community Calendar to get a real taste of what's happening.
A great way to kick off this weekend is with the Uptown Friday Night Concert at 7:00pm, so throw your lawn chair in the car and head to the 1000 block of Broadway for a night of great music with Lava Lamp doing some serious throwbacks with cover songs from the 70's…and it’s absolutely free!
Looks like MidTown and UpTown are the places to be this weekend! First up, lace up your running shoes and do your stretching routine to get ready for the 6th Annual MidTown Classic 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run that kicks off Saturday morning at 8:00am. MidTown Columbus is one of the prettiest parts of town so I can’t think of a better place to take a run or a walk…or a bike ride, but more on that in a bit! Not only is this event going to be fun—all runners get to enjoy live music, food and door prizes after the race—but they are doing this for a good cause--raising money for the Wynnton Neighborhood Network, a non-profit organization that provides food and other necessities to families in Midtown Columbus; and Wynnton Neighborhood Housing. It's $10 to join in the Fun Run and $25 for the 5K.
So if running isn’t your thing, how about filling up the air in your bike tires and set off for the MidTown Historic Bike Around on Sunday afternoon? You don’t even have to be a serious cyclist to enjoy this ride…it’s a 4.6-mile, family-friendly ride that will take you by nine historic stops and there will even be an energizing station just in case you need a breather! Everybody who rides gets a cycling bag and all sorts of goodies. So what if you want to join in but don’t have a bike or helmet? They’ve got you covered there too…you can rent a bike from Ride on Bikes for only $10 and they will also have helmets available. There’s just something about being on a bicycle that gives you a whole different perspective than zipping by in a car. You’ll see great sites and even learn something along the way! If you bring your own bike and helmet, there's no cost to join in.
Now that you’ve walked, ran and biked all through MidTown Columbus, it’s time to kick back and relax with another free event...Party on the Lawn at the Historic Wynnton Arts Academy. Even if you didn’t do any walking, running or biking, everybody is still invited to the party this Sunday beginning at 3:00pm. It’s a great way to get a taste of MidTown Columbus…it’s where I happen to call home and I love it…and they’ll have all sorts of activities, food, fun and live music from the Ft. Benning Jazz Combo and the Genesis Gospel Choir from CSU. This is also a great event for kids. So come prepared to dance or chill out in your lawn chair—a great way to wind down the weekend!
Now if the title of this one doesn’t intrigue you, I don’t know what will! It’s the Wild & Scenic Outdoor Film Festival AND World-Record Picnic Attempt at Oxbow Meadows this Sunday! It’s the 42nd anniversary of Earth Day, so the Chattahoochee RiverWarden, Oxbow Meadows and the Columbus Film Society all got together to bring this film series to Columbus. The film series is incredible enough, but they wanted to make this event even more special, so they are urging everyone to bring a picnic dinner with you to enjoy as you watch the movie under the stars and everyone who does, will be counted as part of this world record picnic attempt that stretches from Columbus, GA to Melbourne, Australia!! All the proceeds will be used for the development of a water quality education program at Oxbow. Admission is only $5 for adults and $2 for students.
And finally, If music is good for the soul, then here’s an event you need to check out! The Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents a performance called “And now the Concerto…” this Saturday at 7:30pm at RiverCenter. Tickets range from $5 to $38.
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, on Friday, April 20, 2012
One Fun-Filled Weekend Coming Up in Columbus, GA!
If you've been waiting for the perfect Spring weekend to get out and have some fun, well, this could be the one! I was just looking at the Community Calendar and it looks like it's going to be one of those weekends where you'll need to build an itinerary to work in all this stuff. Here are some of the one's that really jumped out at me, but believe me, there is something for everyone this weekend.
OK, in the history of the Springer Opera House, there has never been another production with a cooler title—“I Tweeted on my iPad and I ‘Liked’ It!” This is a brand new comedy that takes a look at social networking, how folks are now communicating, how relationships are changing—it pretty much goes places other productions have never gone. What really sets this one apart is that it is full of audience participation—you know when you go to the theatre or any kind of performance, they tell you to turn off your cell phone, but not here—they insist you pull them out and actually tweet and those will be incorporated into the improv scenes! So the audience will actually have a major part in deciding where the team of comics and writers take each show. It's running now through April 21 and admission ranges from $15-$35.
If on your bucket list you have things like: Feed a 50-pound tortoise or Get up close and personal with a 15-foot reticulated python, well you’re in luck this weekend because it’s time for the 11th Annual Reptile Fest at Oxbow Meadows. They have all sorts of cool things going on like animal touch tanks, all sorts of creepy reptiles, face painting, crafts, tons of games, and of course, the highlight of the day at noon—the “Hiss America Pageant!” Here’s how this works: If you have a gorgeous pet lizard, snake or turtle that you want to show the world, sign ‘em up! Guests at the festival will be doing the voting, so the folks at Oxbow say bring on the props and costumes and go all out for this contest. Then at 2:30, you can watch them feed the 4 big adult alligators! Admission is only $5 and things get cranked up this Saturday at 11:00am.
How about browsing among the best in blooms and greens this Saturday at Columbus Botanical Garden as part of their 2012 Plant Sale & Garden Market. They’ll have lots of vendors on hand, displays and the ever-popular Masters Gardner’s Booth—so if you have a problem with one of your plants, take a sample and let the expert tell you how to do it right! Put it on your calendar for Friday: 10:00am- 4:00pm or Saturday: 10:00am-2:00pm
You can tell Spring is really here because this is the time of year when ‘sailors’ and ‘marines’ from both the Union and Confederate sides gather at Port Columbus for RiverBlast! This is one of the coolest and the largest living-history weekends they do all year at Port Columbus and it draws re-enactors from all over the country. These guys will be all decked out in their uniforms and doing weapons demonstrations and drills, skirmishes, event re-enactments and scenes from a typical day in the life of a sailor. There really is something for everyone to enjoy—anything from a naval landing demonstration to Civil War poetry reading, to a performance by the Columbus Brass! It's regular admission and the action will be taking place Saturday and Sunday.
Hold on to your zithers because there’s a really unusual concert happening this Saturday at RiverCenter called “Kaleidoscope Concert.” This features more than 250 students and faculty from CSU’s Schwob School of Music performing a wide range of musical styles. They’ll have large ensembles performing as well as some award-winning soloists and chamber ensembles. So don’t think this is just going to be one guy with a violin on stage (not that there’s anything wrong with that!), because you’ll hear anything from a string orchestra, jazz, musical theatre, even steel drums and of course, zithers! Admission is only $20 for all of this music.
If you need some football action, the Columbus Lions are taking on the Louisiana Swashbucklers this Saturday beginning at 7:30pm at the Columbus Civic Center. And how fun is this? It’s Cancer Awareness Night so watch out for Pink Footballs and Pink Jerseys!
We've got a great list of things to do now we just need to wait a few more hours for this weekend thing to get underway!
Now, go have some fun...
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, on Thursday, April 12, 2012
Easter Weekend Fun Hops into Columbus, GA!
The Easter Weekend is upon us it's chocked full of fun things to do with the family! Here's a sampling of some of the events going on, but to get the full view of all that's happening, head to the Community Calendar for tons of ideas.
OK, maybe this one isn't really Easter-related, but I can't think of a better way to kick off a weekend! It’s quickly becoming one of the best music festivals in the state and that’s because it features all sorts of national recording acts and hometown favorites! It’s the 5th Annual Frogtown Hollow Jam happening this Friday night and just about all day Saturday at Woodruff Park in Uptown Columbus (Bay Ave). If you love amazing music, you are going to be all over this because it’s wall to wall amazing acts including Whiskey Bent, Natalie Stovall and John Popper of Blues Traveler. And you can’t have a real festival without festival food so go hungry and pig out on BBQ, funnel cakes, ice cream, fresh squeezed lemonade and lots more. Since this is a family event, they even have lots for kids to enjoy like inflatables, facepainting, stilt walkers & a puppet band! Admission is $20 a day or you can get a 2-day pass for $30.
More good news and fun stuff coming out of Uptown Columbus as Market Days on Broadway kicks off this Saturday! Believe ir or not, this kicks off the 6th year of Market Days and a lot of folks make this a part of their routine every Saturday (9am-12noon) because you never know what you’re going to see as it’s a little different each time. What you can count on each week is loads of local farmers who sell locally grown fruits, vegetables and flowers & plants and other vendors who have all sorts of handmade treasures for sale like art, photography, jewelry, fresh baked goods (if the lady is there with the cinnamon rolls, you have to one)…all kinds of cool stuff. And something new this year, they’ll have a different activity going on…anything from Oxbow Meadows’ Creature Feature, to musicians, to PAWS Humane. This Saturday, there’ll be live bluegrass music by The Justice Family. Free admission...you just can't beat that!
If you’re ready to put out some plants for Spring, you might also want to check out Oxbow Meadows’ Native Plant Sale this Sunday cranking up at 2:00pm. It makes a lot of sense to buy plants that are native to this area, so you know there’s a good chance they’ll be happy and thrive! Free admission.
Alright, now we'll get into some of the 'egg-citing' (come on, you know it had to be said) Easter activities happening in the area.
Heading back to Uptown Columbus, this Saturday morning there will be an Easter Egg Hunt starting at 10:30am in the green space on the side of the RiverCenter at 10th Street and Broadway. They'll have the hunt divided into two age groups and they do suggest you get there a little before 10:30 so your kids won't miss any of the fun. No admission for this one.
If you want to take your Easter celebration on the road, here are a couple of ideas: Up at Callaway Gardens in the Overlook Azalea Garden, the Easter Bunny assistants have divided this Saturday afternoon hunt for all different age categories…starting off with toddlers and even giving parents and seniors a chance to look for eggs later in the afternoon! How cool is that?! Be on the lookout for the Easter Bunny—he could be anywhere in the Gardens, so have your camera ready!
Then on Easter Sunday, Roosevelt’s Little White House will be hosting an authentic “Easter Egg Roll” similar to that held on the lawn of the White House in Washington! Kids will push an egg through the grass with a long-handled spoon and they’ll divide everything into 3 age groups to keep things fair! Bring your Easter baskets! This all kicks off Sunday (Apr. 8) at 1:00pm and admission ranges from $8-$12 and does include admission to the museum, the Little White House and the pool comlex, so you can really make a day out of this.
And how much fun does this sound? If you’ve hidden and hunted all the eggs you can, why not hang out with the Easter Bunny, have brunch with him and even take a ride on the SAM Shortline Train! Talk about making some memories. You'll need to meet the train at the Georgia Veterans State Park this Saturday at 11:00am (near Cordele on US Hwy 280). It's a bit more of a drive, but it sure sounds worth it! All tickets to ride the train and have brunch are $22.50.
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, River Fun, Shopping, on Thursday, April 5, 2012
It’s Spring! Time for Weekend Fun in Columbus, GA!
I know…we didn't have much of a winter around here, but this is officially the first full weekend of Spring, so I say that's reason enough to celebrate and get out and have some fun! More good news—there's plenty of things going on the choose from, so you might want to visit the Community Calendar to get the full list of events. But let's get you started off making your weekend plans by taking a look at a few of the happenings you'll find in Columbus, GA this weekend.
Kicking things off this Friday (March 23) is the 3rd Annual Toast of the Town: A Symphony of Food and Wine...celebrating fine foods, fine wine and classical music, three pleasures which are often underappreciated in today’s fast-paced world. Food tastings will feature local and regional chefs, restaurants and artisans. The wine tastings will have selections from vintners around the world, familiar favorites and others that are new to the Columbus area. A new aspect of the event this year is the southern hand-crafted beer offerings for the hops enthusiasts. Toast of Columbus is a truly special and unique event by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. The event is a fundraiser which supports guest artists, young musicians and educational programs throughout the year. It's all taking place at the RiverMill Event Center beginning at 7:00pm. Cost to attend is $85 per person, but that sounds like a great deal considering all you get for that…plus you're helping out an incredible organization.
Over at the RiverCenter, it's the Tony award winning musical, Fiddler on the Roof, which has won the hearts of people all over the world and critics have praised it over and over. And we have the chance to see it live on the RiverCenter stage Friday night (March 23) only! Its heartwarming score includes “Tradition,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” and “Sunrise, Sunset.” The audience will be singing along in their seats. No other musical has so wonderfully woven music, dance, and laugher into such an unforgettable experience. Their was a showing last night and I heard it was fantastic. So if you’ve never seen the show, it’s a must and if you have, then it’s time to relive this fantastic tradition of musical theatre.
Here's a great reason to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. The Columbus, GA MS Walk will be this Saturday (March 24) at Golden Park. Registration starts at 9am and the walk starts at 10am. It’s a great event to bring people together to raise funds and celebrate hope for the future.
I'm th first to admit it…if it has to do with animals—I'm all about it. So I'm happy to let you know it’s time for one the best events around…The 4th Annual Bark for Life! Put on by the American Cancer Society, this event is fun and for a great cause. Dog owners can bring the furry members of the family out to Britt David on Saturday for a morning of frolicking and fun. There will be a 1-mile walk at 9am, then the opening ceremonies at 10:15am which include the calendar dog lap and survivor lap. After that there will be games, agility dog demonstrations, and PAWS Humane will put on Pooch Pageants for Best Dressed, Heavyweight, Lightweight and Owner Look-Alike. If the promise of all that isn’t enough, there will also be yummy food such as hotdogs, popcorn, ice cream, funnel cakes and more. Humans are free, $20 for dogs, and ALL dogs must have their rabies vaccine paperwork.
How about a fantastic show for kids of ALL ages at the Springer Opera House! Amazing Grace is geared towards kids age 1st grade and up but even the adults will love this heartwarming production. The start of the show, Grace, loves stories. She loves to hear them, read them and tell them, but most of all she loves to act them out. She and her neighborhood friends create wonderful backyard adventures with Peter Pan, Joan of Arc, Mowgli, Hiawatha and Cinderella. This play is a roller coaster of imagination and a fabulous tale of creative fantasy, self-confidence and the importance of standing up for yourself. Kids will be entertained and will come away with some great life lessons. Tickets are only $10 for adults and $5 for students.
And to round things out, the Columbus Museum has a very special event happening Sunday (March 25) with their "Let there be Art: Sunday Lunch and Gospel Choir." It's a great family affair with delicious Southern cuisine, live gospel performances, ats and crafts for kids and one last look and opportunity to purchase the art on display. Adults are $22, kids $8.
What a way to kick off Spring!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Spring Fever Weekend in Columbus, GA!
OK, maybe I'm rushing it a bit…Spring doesn't officially start for a few more days, but this warm weather and sunshine have me in the mood to get out and have some fun! Who cares if the air is full of pollen…that's what they make allergy medicine for…it's just too pretty to sit at home and do nothing! So here's a few suggestions of things you might want to do this weekend. It's shaping up to be a full one, so you may want to head to the Community Calendar to get a complete listing of happenings or to get more scoop on the events listed here.
No doubt you're going to see and hear things buzzing overhead this weekend, but don't be alarmed…it's all part of the Thunder in the Valley Airshow at the Columbus Airport this Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am-5:00pm each day. If you've been before, you know how awesome this is…if this will be your first time there, prepare to be amazed! There will be aerobatics, vintage war birds, US Army Infantry vehicles, airplane and helicopter rides, a kid's carnival, tons of great food…and if it flies or has ever flown, chances are it will be on display or in the air. Admission is only $10 for adults, $8 for military and free for Scouts in uniform and also for ages 6 and under.
Art lovers—check this one out! The second annual Let There Be Art! at the Columbus Museum once again celebrates the brightest and most talented artists from the East Coast, across the South, and stretching across to Europe in a tremendous show and sale. We truly feel fortunate to have such a magnificent display of paintings, pottery, and porcelain in one venue—our own Columbus Museum! To learn more about the featured artists and view the fabulous art that will be on display, visit columbusmuseum.com/lettherebeart.
Speaking of things that the artistic ones among us will enjoy, here are a couple of things you might like to explore. First up, the Joseph House and Columbus Artist Guild will have artists painting outside as part of the Plein Air Painting of Uptown 2012. The paintings that are finished will be exhibited at the Joseph House Art Gallery from April 1, 2012 through April 27, 2012. These paintings will be watercolor, acrylic, and oils done by local artists. You can catch these artists at work between Saturday and next Friday (Mar 17-23)
This sounds pretty cool—The first public exhibit of Octogenarian and master cross stitcher, Jinny Reed, shows a lifetime of work, to benefit the Sally DeMuth Scholarship Fund, in memory of her daughter Sally. This event is open to the public and admission is free. The Sally DeMuth Scholarship fund was established In May 2011, to honor beloved educator, librarian and teacher Sally Reed DeMuth, who lost a valiant 5 year battle with ovarian cancer on March 17th, 2011. The event takes place at Vintage 222, located at 222 7th Street this Saturday (Mar 17) from 4:00 - 8:00pm.
And what sort of red-headed, green-eyed Irish girl would I be if we didn't mention a couple of things going on in honor of St. Patrick's Day? Let's start off Saturday with a little history at the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus and their event called "Paddy Goes to Sea: Irishmen in the Civil War Navies." It will focus on the part played by Irish immigrants and Irish Americans in the Navies of the American Civil War.
Of course, you've got to have a party to crash this Saturday, so head to Uptown Columbus for the St. Patrick's Day Concert featuring The Boneheadz. It all starts at 7:00pm in the 1000 block of Broadway and…here's the best part…wait for it…it's absolutely free!!! Bring your lawn chair…
So, it's only fitting this week that I close with my favorite Irish toast—"May you be in heaven a half hour before the devil knows you're dead!" I just love that one…
Have a great weekend!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Friday, March 16, 2012
Spring Ahead with Weekend Fun in Columbus, GA!
It's hard to believe it's already time to do this, but this is the weekend we set the clocks ahead—which is great because that means we'll have more daylight to have more fun, but we do lose an hour so that means you'll have to work extra hard to get in all the fun stuff happening this weekend! To help you figure out what you want to do, we've got a peek at a couple of things going on, but don't forget to check out the Community Calendar to find out more.
Don't know about you, but I've got azaleas and dogwoods already blooming in my yard so that means Spring is just about here. I'll bet I'm not the only one who's ready to get outside and do some planting and filling up pots with brightly colored plants, so this is the perfect weekend to head to the Columbus Museum for the Chattahoochee Valley Camellia Society's Camellia Show. The show, sanctioned by the American Camellia Society, will have 30 judges, led by well known Camellia enthusiast John Newsome. There will be many categories for growers of all levels, including novice, and many cash awards. Maybe if I learn from the masters, I won't kill my plants before Spring is over…maybe. If you want to go, it's happening Saturday and Sunday and it's absolutely free to attend.
While you're at the museum for the Camellia Show on Sunday, take the whole family with you and check out the Family Art Affair, which starts at 2:00pm. Set your creativity free as you learn how to make a wax resist landscape in the Studio. Everybody in the family will enjoy this one and it's also absolutely free!
How about a little musical theatre this weekend? The Springer Opera House is running a production of "Damn Yankees" now through March 17. Great plot and music—Joe Boyd, a real estate agent and fan of the pathetic Washington Senators baseball team, hates the New York Yankees. "I'd sell my soul for one good long-ball hitter!" he shouts. Suddenly, the Devil shows up and turns Joe into a 22-year-old superstar who leads the Senators to the pennant game against the Yankees. To stack the deck, Satan sends his assistant, the sultry Lola, to help Joe forget his beloved wife Meg. But Joe is a salesman and has other plans. Includes "You Gotta Have Heart" and "Whatever Lola Wants." Tickets range from $15-$38.
If you're more in the mood for some jazz music this weekend, you're in luck! The Columbus Jazz Society presents their monthly Jazz Concert and Jam Session at the Historic Liberty Theatre this Sunday night beginning at 6:00pm. Special guest is pianist Lenore Raphael…a top jazz pianist whose style is elegant yet energetic.
It's shaping up to be a beautiful weekend and it looks like you'll have plenty of fun stuff to choose from to get out and enjoy it. Make sure you hit up the Community Calendar to take a look at more events going on.
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
The Weekend Awaits in Columbus, GA!
Another work week is about the bite the dust…and that's ok with us because that means it's time to start the weekend! If you're looking for some ideas for fun stuff to do, you've come to the right place. We've got just a couple of ideas for you on things to see and do, but make sure you also check out the Community Calendar where you'll find more details on these and lots of other events.
I don't know about you, but this weather has been so warm that I already have azaleas blooming in my yard, so that means Spring can't be far behind and that of course means…time to start thinking about Spring cleaning and home projects! This weekend at the Trade Center is the Home and Garden Show that will feature local and regional vendors with products for the home, garden and landscaping—all under one roof. Take the kids with you because they will have special activties just for them, door prizes, workshops, food demonstrations and more. The first 500 adults receive a free tote bag, courtesey of the Ledger-Enquirer and other sponsors. Admission is only $2.
Here's a cool event where you'll get great food, a piece of art and you're helping out a wonderful organization. It's the Empty Bowl Brunch at the Northside Recreation and it's put on by Columbus Parks and Recreation as the main charity fundraiser for the Kids Cafe, a local program of the Feeding the Valley Food Bank. This program provides free meals and snacks to low-income children through a variety of community locations, as well as offering them supervised social and recreational activities. Here's how it works: you get to pick out a bowl to keep from among hundreds of uniquely made pieces and enjoy all-you-can-eat homemade-style soups, breads, desserts and drinks…and 100% of the proceeds fo to the Kids Cafe. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for ages 12 & under.
And if you're in the mood for a little music this weekend, you're in luck because there are a couple of really good events to choose from! first up is the 2012 Men's Gospel Fest at the Liberty Theatre. Several Men's Choirs from the area will be performing and one will be crowned the best choir in the Chattahoochee Valley! The singing gets started at 5:00pm. Or, you may want to check out a concert by the Vienna Boys Choir at RiverCenter's Heard Theatre this Sunday at 7:30pm. No group of child musicians has won more renown than the incomparable Vienna Boys Choir. Founded in 1498 (I can't even wrap my head around that!), the famed choir continues to delight music lovers around the world with their purity of tone, distinctive charm and diverse crowd pleasing repertoire.
So maybe those ideas will get you started on making your weekend plans. Don't forget to zip through the Community Calendar to see what else is going on that might be right up your alley!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Another Full Weekend of Fun in Columbus, GA!
I think I know the answer, but are you ready for the weekend? Yeah, that's what I thought! So how about we take a look at a handful of things going on this weekend and even stretching into next week…because you might need some ideas for Valentine's Day fun. One quick tip is to check the Community Calendar often because events are always being added to keep it up to date. So let's get this show on the road…literally!
It’s been four long years, but they’re finally back….The Follies! This year, the Junior League of Columbus proudly presents “Ballroom Blitz” at CSU's University Hall. This awesome musical variety show promises singing, dancing, and comedy acts by many familiar faces from our community. It’s a great way to spend this Friday (Feb 10) or Saturday (Feb 11) night….being highly entertained while supporting a good cause. Proceeds form the Follies benefit the operations, activities, and programs of the Junior League. Two that have been really successful are Kids in the Kitchen and Project Prom. You can get your tickets online or give the Junior League office a call. This could also make a great early Valentine’s present. Hint hint.
Since it looks like we're headed in the direction of romance this weekend, another option is a CSU vocal concert called "The True Story of Cinderella," with words and music by Warren Martin, featuring 12 Schwob School of Music voice students. The familiar tale takes some unexpected turns but ends happily ever after. It's happening Saturday (Feb 11) at 7:30 pm in Legacy Hall. And you've got to love this…admission is free!
OK, one more lovey-dovey mention! It’s not too late to pull off a romantic Valentine’s evening that will score you major brownie points! On Valentine’s Day, which if you don’t know is February 14th-next Tuesday-the Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents their annual Valentine’s concert. This year it’s My Jazzy Valentine featuring Joe Gransden and his Trio. Come hear why he’s been compared to Chet Baker and Frank Sinatra. Some songs you might recognize and will enjoy are “My Funny Valentine,” “I Wish You Love,” and “A Portrait of Jenny.” Grab dinner beforehand at one of several close-by restaurants and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember. Tickets range from $5-$36.
Switching gears completely…
Want to rock out this weekend? Well as crazy as it sounds, the Columbus Museum is the place to do just that! In conjunction with the Sound and Vision: Monumental Rock & Roll Photography exhibit they have on display right now, the Museum will host it’s first ever local teen Battle of the Bands concert (Saturday, Feb 11 from 6:00-9:00pm). Six bands will play in the Patrick Theatre as they compete for the title of the best band. A teen advisory board selected the bands that will perform and the winners will be chosen by a panel of judges in the music industry. Prizes will be given to the top three bands. This event is free and open to the public! While you’re their make sure to check out the photography exhibit with photos of some very notable figures of the past five decades including Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, Janis Joplin, Tupac Shakur & many more.
Well it’s not quite time for outdoor produce markets, but Callaway Gardens is having a winter market this Saturday (Feb. 11) with lots of seasonal products like baked goods, soaps, sauces and other specialty items. It might be a little chilly this weekend so the market will be inside the big circus tent at Robin Lake Beach so you don’t have to work about braving the elements. There will be a wide variety of regional vendors selling organic breads, brownies, sweets, and other yummy goodies, local honey, freshly squeezed lemonade, and even grass-fed beef. If you’re looking for something other than food, there will be handmade soaps, lotions and lip balms, handcrafted woodwork, birdhouses baskets and more. There is no admission to this event so there’s nothing to stop you from going!
And, if you need a reason to get outside for some fresh air (and who doesn't need that!), join the staff at Oxbow Meadows this Sunday (2:00pm) as they welcome Auburn University’s Southeastern Raptor Center for a program on birds of prey followed by a release of a rehabilitated raptor into the wetlands. Sounds pretty cool! Admission is only $3.
With all these activities going on this weekend, you'll find something to make your weekend special. Don't forget to take a glance at the Community Calendar to find out more about these and tons of other events.
Now, go have some fun…
Ready for Weekend Fun in Columbus, GA!!
Looking for stuff to do this weekend in Columbus, GA? You've come to the right place to get a taste of just a few of the things going on. Make sure you also check the Community Calendar to find out more.
We’re going to kick off the weekend tonight with something extra special for the younger members of the household! Tonight (Feb 3) at the RiverCenter is a production called “Ramona Quimby!” Now, if you have kids in your household, you’re probably familiar with Ramona, because according to her website, “there has never been anyone quite like Ramona Geraldine Quimby!” Ramona is in elementary school and her favorite activities include playing in the park, fairy tales, adventures, which all sound nice enough…but along with her big sister, and all their friends on Klickitat Street, they find all sorts of madcap adventures to get into! Based on the award-winning books by noted author Beverly Cleary. Kids…and I’ll bet even parents…will love this one! Admission is only $5-$15.
A lot of us made those dreaded New Year’s resolutions a few weeks back…so how’s that going for you?! If you haven’t quite gotten kicked those “I’m going to take care of myself and get healthy” resolutions into high gear or you don’t even know where and how to start…this is perfect. This Saturday (Feb 4 9:00am-2:00pm) at the Trade Center is the 2012 Columbus Health Expo and there will be a wealth of information at your fingertips and it’s absolutely free! There will be over 40 free health screenings given by health providers and the results will be reviewed by a doctor or a nurse. These tests include checking your cholesterol, blood pressure, bone density, sleep issues, and something we can all relate to…stress! Admission is FREE.
So maybe you’re as healthy as you’re gonna get and you have other types of resolutions on your mind! If you’ve been thinking about getting in touch with your inner-artist, here’s something perfect to check into. CSU’s Continuing Ed is having a Watercolor Crash Course this Saturday and the great thing about this…you don’t even have to know which end of a paintbrush to hold! This one-day workshop is for beginners and you absolutely don’t have to have any drawing or painting skills, so don’t be intimidated that other folks in the class will be better than you! You’ll get right to work mixing colors and learning a few of the basic painting techniques on an original drawing created just for this class. You may discover hidden talents you didn’t even know you had and find yourself a whole new hobby!
This one may not be happening this weekend, but sometimes you need something to look forward to on a Tuesday night and it’s worth stepping out on a weeknight to catch this one. The Soweto Gospel Choir is coming to the RiverCenter for one show only Tuesday night. They are celebrating their 10th Anniversary with a tour of the United States and Columbus is lucky enough to be one of the stops on this tour. They perform African gospel, spiritual songs, reggae and American popular music, as well as traditional South African songs. How good are these guys? They have performed on the Academy Awards show last year, they have performed for presidents and world leaders, and they’ve won Grammy Awards. What’s really impressive is that a portion of each concert’s proceeds goes to various charities. Admission ranges from $10-$59.
So far we havent had much of a Winter so it looks like Spring will be here before you know it. That means it’s time to start thinking about getting things ready for Spring planting. If you love to garden or want to find out how to do it right, check out this Getting Ready for Spring Gardening class at the Columbus Botanical Garden this Saturday at 10:00am or 2:00pm.
Quitting time will be here before you know it and the weekend will be well underway…hope some of these ideas will help you make some plans to enjoy your free time. One last reminder to visit the Community Calendar often because new events and details are always being added.
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Weekend Fun Anyone? Yes, Please!
The end of another long week is in sight so that means it's time to start thinking about the important and meaningful things in life…like what sort of fun can we line up!? There are always plenty of things to get out and do in and around Columbus and to make planning your fun-time even easier, bookmark the Community Calendar and take a peek at it often because events are always being added or updated. To get you started, here's a quick look at a few things you might want to add to your wish-list.
If you hear roars of laughter coming from inside RiverCenter Friday night (1.27), don’t be alarmed….it’s because Jerry Seinfeld is back in town! I believe this is the 3rd time he’s been to Columbus, so it’s obviously a good show if we keep bringing him back. I saw him a few years ago and I can tell you that whether or not you watched his show when it was on television, you will love his stand-up routine. Seinfeld’s so good at making the little, ordinary, mundane things in life seem so hilarious and because he is joking about these ordinary happenings, everyone can relate to him and his stories. If you haven’t seen him live, and even if you have, I can’t think of a better way to spend a Friday night. Count it as your ab workout for the week!
How about something really intriguing at the Springer Opera House? Richard Nixon was maybe one of the most polarizing public figures of the last century. Disgraced as president and forced to leave the White House, Nixon was the first president to resign from office. Three years after leaving the White House, Nixon, who had not done a television interview since, decided he needed to remake his image and get some much-needed money. So he seeks out Frost, a lightweight British entertainment reporter figuring he wouldn’t ask any hard questions. However, Frost sees this as the opportunity of a lifetime. So you have Nixon that wants to save his image and Frost, who wants to save his career and the result was an electrifying event that shook the nation. A little known fact is that all the television networks turned down the interview and Frost had to personally call them and beg for the airtime. Even those youngsters that may not be aware of these infamous interviews will enjoy this show and hopefully learn a little bit about American history.
If you’re an antique lover and need some new pieces for your home, this event is for you. Starting Friday and running through Sunday, the Uptown Columbus Antique Show will be at the Convention & Trade Center. The show features dealers from the Atlanta area and you’ll be able to find furniture, sterling silver, fine estate jewelry, Persian rugs, fine French antiques and much more. It’s a shopper’s paradise of unique and beautiful items! Admission is only $3!
Commemorate FDR’s birthday one day early, this Sunday at FDR State Park in Pine Mountain. Author David M. Burke Jr. will be there to sign copies of “Images of America Warm Springs.” And what birthday celebration would be complete without cake?! Join staff on this Sunday at 11:00am and have a piece of cake, cool drink and learn a little bit about an important person in American history.
To kick-off the 60th anniversary of Callaway Gardens in 2012, they are offering free admission to all guests for 60 days. This began January 1 and will run through February 29, 2012. What a great deal! It may technically be winter but these mild temperatures we’ve been having are perfect to enjoy the bike and walking trails and other outdoor activities and if it does turn cold, you can still enjoy the indoor butterfly center and the gorgeous floral displays at the Sibley Horticultural Center.
See? There's a little something for everyone this weekend…you just have to decide which one you want to do first! Don't forget to check the Community Calendar to see what else is going on.
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Shopping, on Thursday, January 26, 2012
Winter Weekend Fun in Columbus, GA!
It may be winter time in Columbus, GA, but there are still plenty of fun things to get out and do. If you're looking for things going on this weekend, you've come to the right place! Here's a quick rundown of just a couple of things going on, but make sure you take a look at the Community Calendar to get a complete listing of all that's happening…it's a really great resource to keep up with all the events in town.
When the weather gets cold like this, sometimes there’s nothing better than a fire in the fireplace, fuzzy socks on your feet and a big bowl of something hot and delicious…something like macaroni & cheese, mashed potatoes, or chili! This time of year, comfort food is just what the doctor ordered, but if you don’t know how to make comfort food or think it will take too much time, check out this cooking demo at RiverMill Event Centre (Friday, Jan 13) called “Comfort Food Made Easy.” Chef Jamie Keating will teach you some quick and easy ways to satisfy those comfort food cravings during these cold winter nights. For one price ($44 & that includes taxes and gratuity), you get the cooking demo, two drink vouchers, a delicious dinner, and the know-how to do it yourself! That's a great deal.
Let’s set the stage for this one. Place a wiry 150-pound cowboy on the back of a hulking, snorting, temperamental 2,000 pound bull and see if he can ride the beast for an eternal eight seconds…with one hand strapped to the bull's massive back. And you think you have a tough job! It’s all part of the Professional Bull Riders Invitational taking place at the Columbus Civic Center this weekend (Jan 13 & 14). It's kind of cool how the PBR got started: It was created in 1992 when a group of bull riders broke away from the traditional rodeo scene because they believed that, as the most popular event at a rodeo, bull riding deserved to be in the limelight and could easily stand alone. And with names like Smack Down, Bushwacker, Back Bender, and Super Freak, these bulls are going to put on a show!
How about some music this weekend? Now, you might be a fan of Country, Rock, Classical, or Rap music, but there is a handful of artists that transcends those boundaries and, no matter your musical taste, you just can’t help being in awe of their talents. One such performer is none other than B.B. King! He'll be in concert at RiverCenter this Sunday (Jan 15). For more than half a century, he has defined the blues for a worldwide audience. No body plays and sings the blues like B. B. King! Since he started recording in the 1940s, he has released over fifty albums, many of them classics. And this guy may be 76, but he is still light on his feet, singing and playing the blues with relentless passion. It’s almost like time has no apparent effect on B.B., other than to make him more popular, more cherished, more relevant than ever. It’s not often you have a chance to see a legend, so get tickets before they are gone for this Sunday’s performance!!!
If you’re looking for something hands-on you and the kids can do together this weekend, then check out the “Family Art Affair” at the Columbus Museum the Sunday. This is especially cool if you have kids that are interested in music because you can drop in the Studio and create a CD case cover! This is perfect for kids ages 5 and up and they’ll have all the materials there for you and your kids to create your CD case masterpiece! You don’t even have to make reservations for this one…you can just drop in. And believe it or not…it’s absolutely free! Take a few minutes while you’re there to visit a couple of the galleries with your kids…a great way to introduce them to different kinds of art in one of the best art and history museums in the South!
This one may not be happening this weekend, but it's sure worth a mention here. You only have one chance to catch it, so make reservations now for “The Color Purple,” which will be at RiverCenter next Wednesday (Jan 18) at 7:30pm. This musical has been nominated for multiple Grammy and Tony Awards…so you know it’s going to be incredible! Tickets range from $39.50-$49.50.
And that's just for starters!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
The Year just Started but there’s lots to do in Columbus, GA this Weekend!
Hope everyone had a happy and safe holiday season and let's cross our fingers that 2012 will be the best year yet for us all! The holidays may be over, but If you're still in the mood to get together with family and friends this weekend, you're in luck because there's plenty of fun things to get out and do. Before we take a quick look at a couple of things happening, just a quick reminder to check the Community Calendar often because that is a great spot to find out more details on these and tons of other events.
OK, I know the title says Gospel Brunch, but stay with me on this one. If you are a fan of rock ‘n roll music, you are going to love this! The Columbus Museum has a brand new exhibit on display called “Sound and Vision: Monumental Rock & Roll Photography” and it is incredible! There are amazing photos of the Beatles, David Bowie, the Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, Kurt Cobain, Little Richard—and more of the most notable and memorable figures in rock ‘n roll of the last 50 years. But this Sunday, not only can you take a look at these photos, but plan to attend the brunch where they will be serving New Orleans-style cuisine and have live music by the Genesis Gospel Choir. Cost to attend is $25 for Museum members and $30 for non-members.
So you can spend the earlier part of Sunday at the Columbus Museum and then head out to Oxbow Meadows for the special Second Sunday program they’ll have going on (2:00pm). The program is all about bees and the fact they seem to be disappearing—a topic that’s been in the news a lot lately. Oxbow and the Chattahoochee Valley Beekeepers Association are screening the film “Vanishing of the Bees,” which was filmed across the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia. It takes a look at the alarming disappearance of honeybees and the greater meaning it holds about the relationship between mankind and earth. When the film is over, the Beekeepers president will lead a question and answer session. Plus, you can take a look at the hive on site. Can’t imagine life without biscuits and honey!!!! Admission is only $3.
Well, here we are in the middle of winter, but it’ll be time for June weddings before you know it! Actually, weddings aren’t so much of a summer tradition anymore because you can have it any season and put your own twist on it. If you’ve got a wedding coming up in the near future, you need to head to the Convention & Trade Center this Sunday for the big Wedding Extravaganza. So if you’re drowning in a sea of choices and ideas or don’t even know how to start planning, here’s a good way to speak with tons of vendors in person, check out a spectacular fashion show, find out trends on entertainment, receptions, honeymoon locales, cake designs…you name it and they’ll have info on it to make your planning a whole lot easier! They’ll also have demos, samples and they’ll be giving away some great prizes! It'll only cost you $6 to get in and enjoy the show.
If you thought all of the great after Christmas-sales were over, get ready for one more because this is a good one! The Columbus Museum is holding their annual Winter Sale this Saturday and Sunday, so if you’re planning to go to the Gospel Brunch this Sunday, tack on a few extra minutes to explore some of the cool things they have in the Gift Shop and you’ll get really good deals…like 30-75% off. That’s my kind of sale!! And since it’s at the Museum, you know they’ll have cool artsy stuff for sale but also unique handcrafted jewelry, giftware, handbags, scarves, books about local history, historic and art-related children’s toys, and much more! So not only will you rack up on cool stuff but remember, all sales benefit the Columbus Museum’s educational programs and exhibitions. Free admission!
Just a couple of ideas to get you started making your weekend plans. Don't forget to visit the Community Calendar!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Friday, January 6, 2012
It’s a Happy New Year in Columbus, GA!
Goodbye 2011 and Hello 2012! Wow, where did this year go? They always say that time flies when you're having fun, so maybe that's the reason 2011 seemed to have come and gone in a flash! It was a year full of events and happenings from Pirates at Port Columbus, to a Seafood Festival, Concert Series, Parades and Snow in Uptown, Ice Hockey, Football, Ice Skating, and Softball at South Commons, knockout shows at the Springer Opera House and RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, tons of exhibits and activities at the Columbus Museum and the National Infantry Museum, and all sorts of festivals and fairs…what a jam-packed year.
And the good news? 2012 is looking just as fun-filled as 2011..with maybe even more on the horizon. The best way to find out and keep up with all that's going on is by regularly checking out the Community Calendar. You can search the calendar to find out what's happening on specific dates, by event type, or even the venue. Make sure you check it often, as events are always being added and updated.
Wishing you and your family the best in this new year!
Now, go have some "New Year's Fun,"
shelby
It’s Going to be a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in Columbus, GA!
After weeks, and in the case of some people, months of preparation, the holidays are finally here! It's definitely a time to spend with family and friends and celebrate the season. But if you need to get your family and friends out of the house for a bit, you can always head to the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus (they are closed only on Christmas Day), the National Infantry Museum (closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), or the Civic Center for action on the ice with the Columbus Cottonmouths (Dec. 27), or enjoy Wonderful Wednesday at the Columbus Museum.
And don't forget to always check the Community Calendar...events are always being added!
Now, go have some Holiday Fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, on Thursday, December 22, 2011
Even More Weekend Holiday Fun in Columbus, GA!
And you thought last weekend was busy with fun stuff! We'll you're right, but this weekend ain't too shabby either. Here's a quick look at a few of the things going on, but remember to always check the Community Calendar...it's THE best place to go when you're looking for things to do in and around Columbus.
One of my personal favorite traditions and definitely a local must see during the holiday season, A Tuna Christmas is now showing in Foley Hall at the Springer Opera House. Set in Texas’ third smallest town, Paul Pierce and Ron Anderson play a variety of hilarious characters. The Christmas season has descended upon the town of Tuna and everyone in town is in a tizzy about the annual yard display contest. Competition is fierce! Of course, the Christmas Phantom makes his appearance once again to threaten several of the entries. From the beginning to the end, you’ll be holding your stomach while laughing in the aisles as A Tuna Christmas celebrates its 10th anniversary!
Everyone needs to hear the Christmas story at least once during the season and hearing it through music makes it that much better. A regularly sold out tradition, Cantus Christmas, does just this through musical masterpieces and audience carols. The professional chorus, Cantus Columbus, presents the 12th installment of Message of the Season – Music of the Masters in Legacy Hall at RiverCenter this Monday night. This year’s concert will feature the Organ and Woodwind Quartet. If you haven’t been feeling the Christmas spirit yet or maybe you’re just looking for that special holiday event to make this year memorable, you need to get tickets to this today! It’s always a fantastic show and as I mentioned before, has been known to sell out…
Cinderella is still playing at the Springer Opera House until December 23! It’s an awesome show that kids of all ages will really enjoy. Full of comedy, dancing, music and romance, you don’t want to miss it.
What kid, of any age, doesn’t love a pajama party? The only thing better would be a Christmas themed pajama party! And this Sunday, you’re all invited to a Polar Express Pajama Party at the Imax Theater inside the National Infantry Museum. Guests will get to meet Santa and the Conductor, make holiday crafts and much on delicious holiday cookie. Then you’ll get to see The Polar Express in 3D on the gigantic screen inside the theatre. All of this while wearing your comfy pajamas, which is my kind of party! I honestly can’t think of a better way to spend the Sunday before Christmas than hanging out with my family, watching a great Christmas movie in my Rudolph pajamas.
Callaway Gardens has a new, must see event this season called “A Diva’s Christmas presented by Serenbe Playhouse.” It’s a jazzy holiday cabaret and dinner act that will knock your socks off. The evening begins with a delicious gourmet dinner, followed by lively Christmas entertainment. These three beautiful divas will sing an eclectic mix of Christmas standards and contemporary favorites, with lots of audience interaction and some rip-roaring sing-a-longs. Tickets are only $60 per person and that includes the show and dinner, and I can tell you that I saw the menu and my mouth started watering. Check it out on Callaway’s website if you’re ready to be hungry! Call today to make your reservation.
And if you just need a break from all the holiday fun, check out the new exhibit that just opened at the Columbus Museum called "Sound & Vision: Monumental Rock & Roll Photography Exhibit, which captures some of rock & roll’s most notable and memorable figures of the last five decades with startling and remarkable images. It will run through April 1, 2012. Free admission!
There's plenty of good stuff out there to do, so get your family and friends together to make a plan for the weekend!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, on Thursday, December 15, 2011
More Weekend Holiday Fun in Columbus, GA
If you're looking for holiday fun the whole family can enjoy, then you're in the right place! Columbus, GA offers all sorts of activities this weekend, so make your list..and with all of the events going on this weekend, you may have to check it twice! I'll tell you, a great place to check is the Community Calendar...it has details about the following happenings and lots more. So let's take a quick look at a few of the things going on.
It’s one of the most magical musical comedies ever, in my personal opinion, and the Springer Opera House is bringing it to life. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella will grace the stage this holiday season making girls of all ages wish they could be a fairy-tale princess. But remember, this is a comedy about fairy godmothers, evil stepsisters, magic wands, beautiful dresses and of course…glass shoes. And when things get crazy as the clock strikes midnight, it’ll be a good thing those glass slippers made an appearance. There will be comedy, music, dancing and romance…everything a great date night should have! TIckets range from $15-$38.
Two local events that are a must during the Christmas season are Country’s Reindeer Run & the Bi-City Annual Christmas Parade. The Reindeer Run is for the kiddies & is held every year at Country’s on Broad. It’s a brisk 1-mile, kids-only run, through Uptown. After the run, there’s a visit from Santa, free hot dogs for the runners, cotton candy, games & awards. Online registration is available today through 2 pm & is $20 or you can register on-site tomorrow morning for $25. All proceeds benefit the Children’s Miracle Network. Immediately following the race, at 10am, is the Christmas Parade. There are over 100 entries including floats, cars, youth groups & more & of course, Santa with his sleigh and reindeer. It begins in Phenix City at Broad St & Dillingham, will travel north on Broad St to 13th St, then over the 13th St Bridge to Columbus & south on Broadway to 9th St where it ends.
Enjoy an old-fashioned 1850s Christmas Celebration at Westville this Saturday (Dec 10) from 10am to 6pm. Visit with Father Christmas, make your own tree candle, enjoy a reading of The Night Before Christmas, see the Lighting of the Lanterns and so much more! Admission is $10 per person.
Ever drive down the road and see those beautiful homes all decorated on for Christmas on the outside and think, “Hmmm, I really wish I could see the inside of that house. I bet it’s gorgeous!” Well, this Sunday (12-6pm) you can! Historic Columbus is doing their Holiday Tour of Homes in the fantastic Averett Woods and Hilton Heights neighborhoods this year. 7 mid-century homes will be open to the public and decorated to the nines. Carolers and refreshments will be at the Mistletoe Market at Clubview Elementary Gym, where you can also purchase handmade and homemade holiday treats, décor, and other items. You can buy advance tickets ($20) at several locations around town or the day of at each residence ($25).
The Nutcracker, that classic, must see during the Christmas season is coming to RiverCenter this weekend. On Saturday & Sunday, The Columbus Ballet will wow the audience and make them see visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads. This is a show for kids of all ages and a great way to celebrate the holidays with your family. Tickets range from $18-$20.
Make your tree even more special with a one-of-a-kind, made-from-your-hands holiday ornament. Local potter, Irene Pate, will be on hand at Oxbow Meadows (Sunday, 2:00pm) to help attendees design their own special ornament to take home and place front and center on the tree. These are the kind of ornaments that have a story and make you smile as you hang them year after year. Admission is only $3 but supplies are limited so make your reservation today!
So jingle all the way and enjoy some holiday cheer with your family and friends this weekend!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Thursday, December 8, 2011
Santa, Singing and SNOW in Columbus, GA!
It's time for some serious weekend holiday fun in Columbus, GA so we've put together a quick list of some of the things you really should take time for. It's a BUSY weekend, so here's a quick peek at just of a few of the happenings, but make sure you check the Community Calendar for all the details.
And yes, we said SNOW in Columbus, GA! Tonight (Dec. 2), it's the 5th Annual Broadway Holiday in Uptown Columbus—complete with a parade, lots of Christmas carols being sung by area school choirs, the Coca-Cola Bear, the lighting of the huge Christmas tree, hot chocolate, hot chestnuts, Santa in the gazebo (kids, bring your wish list!) and lots and lots of 'snow!' Something new this year, PAWS Humane will be there with a trailer full of furry, four-legged friends looking for their forever home. That would make the best present ever. It all takes place in Uptown Columbus in the 1100 block of Broadway from 6:00-8:00pm and it's all absolutely free! If you've got kids…you have to bring them to this one!
I started putting up my Christmas last night & I’m proud to say I’ve gotten all the lights strung & a total of 7 ornaments on it. There was a point while stringing the lights that I thought to myself that I’m getting one of those real-looking trees, already strung with lights. What about a tree that not only has all the lights on it, but if also professionally decorated?! I’m loving this idea! That’s exactly what’s gong on with the first-ever River City Festival of Trees at RiverCenter. It’s sponsored by & is a fundraiser for Keep Columbus Beautiful. Designers have decked out these 7-1/2’ trees & they are available for silent auction & they’ll be raffling off two trees. They’ll announce the winners at the Finale Party Monday at 5:30. Can you imagine? A tree already decorated and you can just store it in a bag and you’re set for next Christmas! Raffle tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25.
If you need a little music to get you in the holiday spirit, the Ft. Benning’s Maneuver Center of Excellence Band is holding their annual concert this Sunday at RiverCenter. There are performances at 2:00pm and 7:00pm. Admission is free, but tickets are required…available on post at Omega Travel or at RiverCenter’s box office.
Something that’s become a real tradition around here is the Annual Victorian Open House that Port Columbus puts on every Christmas. In fact, it’s gotten so popular that they expanded it to two weekends this year. If you missed it last weekend, not to worry, Santa will be there all decked out in his fancy, Victorian Christmas suit—red and white striped pants and a dark blue jacket with big with stars! So here’s another chance kids have to get their list together and go talk to the big guy himself. This is also a great place to have professional photos taken (they’ll have photo packages available). You might even see Victorian-era carolers performing traditional Christmas songs, Victorian Vaudeville performers, and you can even knock out some holiday shopping in the Museum’s gift shop! Santa is even going to fire the cannon at the end of the day!!!
How about a little Christmas music the whole family will enjoy?! The Columbus Symphony Orchestra is having “A Christmas Family Concert” this Friday at RiverCenter. Santa is a busy guy this weekend because he’ll be there too, so bring your camera! They’ll also have Carmike Cinema popcorn, hot cocoa and cookies, candy canes, Christmas games, and of course, lots of festive Christmas music designed especially with kids.
Enjoy breakfast this Saturday (Dec 3) with Santa and then stay for one of the best Christmas movies ever…The Polar Express in 3-D at the IMAX Theatre at the National Infantry Museum. Tickets are $10 for all ages and that includes breakfast and the movie. It all starts at 9:00am.
You have to take a break from shopping at some point, so include some of this fun in your 'to-do' this weekend!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Ft. Benning-Military, Shopping, on Friday, December 2, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving from Columbus, GA!
It's a time for family, friends, and lots of good food! But once all of the turkey has been gobbled and your family and friends are itching to get out of the house (or maybe you're the one ready for them to scoot!), there are a few things you can get out and do for fun…after all, you can only shop so much before you get overloaded!
Here's a great one everyone will enjoy and this has been so popular over the past few years that Port Columbus has added an additional weekend to their Victorian Christmas Open House! Normally it's held the first weekend of December, but thanks to an opening in Santa's schedule, he's able to make it a little earlier for this weekend, too! And when Santa visits Port Columbus, he gets all decked out in his special period outfit and really sets the stage for a unique celebration. This weekend will feature first-person museum theatre performances showing life in the Civle War Navies and how Christmas was celebrated at sea. Also, Victorian-era carolers will perform traditional Christmas songs, there will be a Victorian Vaudeville performances and the Museum Gift Store will be open to provide a perfect place to find really cool gifts!
If you really want to boot everyone from the house so you can start on your Christmas decorating, they might like to head south for "Christmas in Plains" to be held on Saturday, November 6 beginning at 5:30pm. President Carter will light up downtown Plains for the Christmas season! Or, you can head north when the sun goes down and experience the other-worldly beauty of Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens. Believe it or not, this is the 20th anniversary for this spectacular event! See the magic of Christmas come alive with the brilliance of eight million lights in one of the world's largest outdoor light and sound shows. This is another great place to find gifts that are totally unique! If you can't make it this weekend, make sure you put it on your calendar to do something between now and December 30…you don't want to miss this.
There's plenty of stuff to get out and enjoy and the best place to find all the details is the Columbus Community Calendar.
Whatever you do this weekend, we wish you the happiest of holidays!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, on Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Does anything beat the smell of bbq wafting through the summer air? - link details
Protect your eyes with new sunglasses from Columbus Eye Associates! - link details
Come to the Infantry Museum on Sat. for the Ft. Benning Sergeants Major Association Armed Forces Day Celebration! link details
Have you noticed all the new sculptures in Uptown Columbus? details
Fort Benning will hold it's annual Memorial Day Observance at the NIM parade field on May 24th at 9 a.m. link details