All I can say is that it's a good thing we have a nice, long 3-day weekend ahead because we're going to need that extra bit of time to get in all the fun things happening! Believe me when I tell you this quick list below is just enough to whet your appetite, but if you want to get the full scoop on all the weekend activities, check out the Community Calendar for a complete listing…then you can make your plans.
Since it is the unofficial beginning of Summer, let’s kick it off at Callaway Gardens this Friday through Monday and watch the world’s best water skiers and wakeboarders compete for the coveted title of “Masters Champion!” About 14 countries are represented in this 52nd annual competition and they are going after a purse of $110,000! And there’s more action off the water with live music, a low country boil, beach Olympics, and new activities like Light Striker Laser Tag, Blaster Boats, and Aqua Island. Something else new you need to check out is TreeTop Adventure, which features 24 aerial challenges and zip lines! Or you can just take your beach towel, lots of sunscreen, and find your perfect spot on the beach and just relax! Admission is $25 for adults and $12.50 for ages 6-12…and something really cool Callaway is doing for active military—you get in FREE! (800.callaway)
If you do head to Callaway this weekend, you should really schedule in a little extra time to scoot over the Warm Springs and head to the Little White House. They are doing something this weekend that happens only a couple of times a year. They’re filling up the swimming pools that were built by Pres. Roosevelt and used by him and others that suffered from polio in the hope that it would help alleviate some of their symptoms. The water does come from a nearby spring and it’s exactly 88 degrees and is very buoyant and relaxing. Normally, the pools are kept drained to preserve them for historical reasons, but this is one of two weekends a year they do this. They limit the number of swimmers each session, so you need to make reservations! Sessions will be held at 10:00am, 12:30pm and 2:30pm and the cost is $20 for adults and $12.50 for ages 6-17. (706.655.5870)
A little south of Columbus, there’s lots going on at Florence Marina State Park this Friday through Sunday with boat rides, games and activities at the Educational Center. Take a picnic and make a day of it! Parking Pass: $5. (229.838.4706)
Let’s face it…we’re all excited about this weekend being the start of the Summer fun season, but let’s not forget the reason for this special day! While you’re out and about this weekend, if you see someone who’s in the military…tell them how much you appreciate their service to this country. One way you can do that is by heading out to the National Infantry Museum because they’ll have several special events going on. Saturday, they’re launching the Memorial Tree Program with the dedication of a tree on the museum’s Memorial Walk of Honor. Then on Monday, they’ll hold a paver dedication ceremony at 10:00am, and in the IMAX theatre, there will be free screenings of a film produced by Ft. Benning soldiers serving in Iraq. All the activities are free, but donations will be accepted at the IMAX theater if you'd like to watch the film. (706.685.5800)
The crew at the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus (Victory Drive) are planning a day of commemoration on Monday (beginning at 10:00am) to recognize the sacrifices of all those who’ve fought and died for their country. There will be a brief service on the grounds and then a cannon salute from the Museum’s original Civil War naval cannon, crewed by uniform sailors and marine reenactors. No charge for this one! (706.327.9798)
And finally, I can't think of a better way to kick off this party weekend than with the last of the Spring concerts in Uptown Columbus. Not only will be have some great music with the Loft All-Stars & Friends, but the city of Columbus is welcoming home the Miracle Riders who have been on the road on their Harley's visiting all of the lower 48 states to raise funds and awareness of the Children's Miracle Network. This is going to be a HUGE party that the entire family will enjoy!! It's free and it'll all be happening in the 1000 block of Broadway from 7:00-10:00pm.
Wow…what a weekend coming up! Whatever you plan to do, just make it a safe one.
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Arts / Events / History / Military