October brings festivals, special events to Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

October delivers a wealth of annual festivals and special events to Brunswick and The Golden Isles, from outdoor art and antique shows to nature festivals and a PGA TOUR event. Here's a sampling of things to come:

Oct 2   FIRST FRIDAY - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209 and the Ritz Theatre Gallery. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Oct 2-3   ANTIQUE SHOW AND SALE - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

Oct 2   DEPT. OF NATURAL RESOURCES COASTFEST - A fun family event celebrating Georgia’s coastal environment and wildlife. Georgia Dept of Natural Resources, Brunswick. Contact: 912-264-7218 or visit them online.

Oct 7-10   GEORGIA COAST BIRDING AND NATURE FESTIVAL - This festival brings casual and experienced bird enthusiasts from all over the United States to experience Southeast Georgia’s wide variety of habitats and wildlife. The whole family can enjoy a weekend of activities including nature walks, a showcase of vendors and conservation groups, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, special speakers, and informative seminars. Jekyll Island. Information: 912-635-3636 or visit them online.

Oct 9-10   THE MCGLADREY CLASSIC - The McGladrey Classic, new to the PGA TOUR Fall Series, promises to be a unique and spectacular event as host Davis Love III and his PGA TOUR friends play the beautiful Seaside course at Sea Island Georgia. Showcasing the area’s rich culture, history and extraordinary hospitality, the tournament is sure to become a new Seaside tradition for spectators and players alike. Proceeds from the tournament benefit Special Olympics and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeast Georgia. For information, visit the McGladrey Classic online.
  

Oct 9-10   41ST ANNUAL FINE ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL - More than 120 artists and craftspeople from throughout the Southeast display and sell their works outdoors in Postell Park, Beachview Drive on St. Simons Island. This year's festival includes the Grand Opening of Glynn Art Association's new Visual Art Center. Hours 10 am to 5 pm each day. Sponsored by the Glynn Art Association. Contact: 912-638-8770 or visit www.glynnart.org

These are but a few of the activities taking place during October in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. A complete calendar of events can be found at our website, www.ComeCoastAwhile.com. Just click on the "Calendar of Events" button.

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Celebrate the July 4th holiday in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

INDEPENDENCE WEEK ACTIVITIES IN
BRUNSWICK AND THE GOLDEN ISLES OF GEORGIA

Though Brunswick and the Golden Isles are a year-round destination, summer is a special time for enjoying our abundant natural beauty, sun-drenched beaches and golden sunshine. Independence Day week is even more special, with an array of fun activities for visitors. Here's a roundup of Independence Week activities in Brunswick and The Golden Isles!

JULY 4 FIREWORKS FESTIVITIES AND DISPLAYS

BRUNSWICK - Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration. Enjoy a traditional small-town holiday celebration, complete with games, prizes, free watermelon, music and fireworks at dusk. Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Gloucester and Bay Streets, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-262-6934.

ST. SIMONS ISLAND - Enjoy the annual July 4 fireworks display at Neptune Park on the St. Simons Island waterfront. Parking is available throughout the village area. NOTE: Lighthouse Trolleys offer shuttle service throughout the south end of St. Simons Island. For more information call 912-638-3333 or visit them online.

JEKYLL ISLAND - Jekyll Island Fireworks Extravaganza. Enjoy this annual family fun party and fireworks finale, on the Jekyll Island beach. $5.00 parking fee at gate. 5:00 to 9:00 pm. Information: 912-635-3636.

INDEPENDENCE WEEK ACTIVITIES

FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

July 2 / First Friday. Visit the shops, galleries and restaurants of historic downtown Brunswick. "He said beer, she said wine" tastings at select shops; live music at various locations. This has become a popular way to spend a quiet Friday evening with friends! 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle and Gloucester Streets, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-265-4032.

July 2-4 / Sunshine Festival Arts and Crafts Show. Local and regional artists display pottery, jewelry, painting, sculpture, garden art and more. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Postell Park, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. Information: 912-262-0628.

July 3 / Sunshine Festival 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run. An enjoyable run-walk through the St. Simons Island village area. Proceeds help support the St. Simons Island Land Trust to fund public walking and running trails. Information: 912-634-2514 or visit goldenislestrackclub.com.

July 3 / Living History at the Horton House. Hear tales of the Spanish attack on Horton House following the Battle of Bloody Marsh. Sample Major William Horton's "ale" or root "beer" in honor of Georgia's first brewery. Enjoy colonial games, early American crafts and soldier drills. 2:00 pm. Horton House, Riverview Drive, Jekyll Island. Information: 912-635-3636 or visit jekyllisland.com.

July 3 / Brunswick Bazaar and Farmers Market. Open air market with fresh produce, prepared foods, plants, arts & crafts, antiques, flea market finds, etc. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Bay and Gloucester Streets, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-262-6665

July 10 / Art in the Alley. Arts, crafts, food and music. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Grant Street between F and Gloucester Streets, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-262-0628.

RAINY DAY FUN

July 6 / Story Time. Stories and simple craft projects tied to various themes, for younger children. 10:30 am, Brunswick Three Rivers Regional Library, 208 Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-267-1212.

July 7 / Movies for Kids. 2:00 pm, Brunswick Three Rivers Regional Library, 208 Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-267-1212.

July 8 / Scrapbooking for Kids. Workshop for kids ages 9 and up. Pre-register: 912-580-4320. 2:00 pm, Brunswick Three Rivers Regional Library, 208 Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick.

July 8 / Turtle Talk. Staff of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center discuss their work with sea turtles and other animals of the ocean. 7:00 pm, Brunswick Three Rivers Regional Library, 208 Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-267-1212.

Brunswick and the Golden Isles of Georgia offer a variety of recreational activities, fascinating museums and historic sites and more. For more information, click here.

St. Simons Island festival celebrates Gullah-Geechee culture

The Georgia coast boasts a fascinating history that spans hundreds, if not thousands, of years. During its recorded history, the flags of five nations have flown over here, reflecting exploration, settlement and occupation of the Georgia coast.

The coast also became home to another group of people who, while not here by choice, played a vitally important role in the development of our economy and culture. Their history and culture take center stage this weekend during the Georgia-Sea Islands Festival in Postell Park on St. Simons Island.

The festival is sponsored by the St. Simons Island African American Heritage Coalition, which is dedicated to "Educate, Preserve, and Revitalize African American Heritage and Culture." Amy Roberts, executive director of the coalition, has been involved with the festival since the first event was held in 1978.

According to Roberts, the festival is a celebration of the Gullah-Geechee culture and language, a mix of English and West African dialects that was spoken by slaves who were brought to the area. It is still spoken in isolated areas of coastal South Carolina and Georgia, including Sapelo Island in McIntosh County.

The festival will showcase various crafts, art and traditional cooking. Handmade baskets, seine nets, music and dance will be displayed. Local and regional groups will perform, including Frankie Quimby and the Georgia Sea Island singers, the Gullah-Geechee Shouters from Darien, Michael Hulett from Brunswick and many others.

There also will be plenty of food, demonstrations by local crafters and information displays.

The Georgia Sea-Islands Festival takes place Saturday, June 12 from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday, June 13 from noon to 6:00 pm. Admission is free.

Information source: The Brunswick News

2010 Special Events in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

No matter what time of year, you'll find a wonderful array of weekend festivals, concerts and other activities throughout Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. Here are some of the highlights; for a complete listing of exhibits, concerts, theatre performances and more, please visit our comprehensive online Calendar of Events.

FEBRUARY

First Friday, Downtown Brunswick

Feb 5 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Feb 5-27 Georgia Artists with Disabilities Annual Touring Exhibit - Works by disabled artists from throughout the state. Tues-Fri 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St., Brunswick. 912-262-6934 or www.goldenislesarts.org

Feb 12-13 Scribblers’ Retreat Writers Conference - Ten workshops featuring regional and nationally known writers. King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, St. Simons Island. 800-996-2904 or www.scribblersretreatwritersconference.com

Feb 20 Living History Festival - Explore the past and meet people who called Frederica home as they demonstrate life in the 1700s. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Ft. Frederica National Monument, St. Simons Island. 912-638-3639. www.nps.gov/fofr

Feb 22 American Soul - Hon. Orion L. Douglass narrates Copeland's "Lincoln Portrait." Community chorus, accompanied by the Coastal Symphony, sings "Gospel Mass for Choir and Orchestra" by Ray. Symphony performs "Afro-American Symphony" by Still and "Lift Every Voice and Sing." 8:00 pm, Glynn Academy Auditorium, downtown Brunswick. 912-634-2006 or www.coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org

MARCH

Mar 5 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Mar 5-27 The Art of Music II - Fine art photography of musicians and their work. Tues-Fri 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St., Brunswick. 912-262-6934 or www.goldenislesarts.org

Mar 12-28 Come Blow Your Horn - Performance of Neil Simon's comedy by the Island Players. Fri and Sat at 8:00 pm, Sun at 3:00 pm. Casino Theatre, St. Simons Island. 912-638-0338 or www.theislandplayers.com

Mar 12-14 Jekyll Island Arts Festival - Exhibits, juried show, food, music, demonstrations, members’ art in all mediums for sale. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Goodyear Cottage, Jekyll Island Historic District. Jekyll Island Arts Association. 912-635-3920.

Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale, Downtown Brunswick

Mar 12-13 Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale - A 211-mile yard sale linking communities along US Highway 341 – the Golden Isles Parkway – from Brunswick & The Golden Isles to Culloden, GA. Vendors will offer antiques, local crafts and traditional yard sale fare. Information: 912-265-0620 or www.peachestothebeaches.com

Mar 20 57th Annual Christ Church Tour of Homes - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, St. Simons Island. For tickets and information, call 912-267-9952 or visit www.christchurchtourofhomes.org

Mar 20-21 Annual Spring Invitational Arts & Crafts Show - Local and regional artists in all media. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Postell Park, St. Simons Island. 912-262-0628 or www.artdowntowngallery209.com

Mar 27-28 17^th Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Festival - Artists and craftspeople in all media. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Postell Park, St. Simons Island. 912-638-8770 or www.glynnart.org

APRIL

April 2 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

St. Simons Island Antique Show and Sale, St. Simons Island

Apr 10-11 Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

Apr 18 A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music.html

MAY

May 1-2 Tabby & Tillandsia Garden Walk,Garden Market & Photographic Exhibition - St. Simons Island. Information: www.cassinagardenclub.org/gardenwalk.htm

May 7 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

May 9 Annual Blessing of the Fleet - Mary Ross Waterfront Park, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-265-4032 or visit www.downtownbrunswickga.com

A Little Light Music, St. Simons Island

May 16 A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music.html

May 29 Jazz in the Park - Enjoy an evening of live jazz music under the stars on the lawn of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Bring a chair or blanket and picnic. Sponsored by Golden Isles Arts & Humanities Association. Information: 912-262-6934 or www.goldenislesarts.org

May 29-30 Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

May 29-30 Annual Memorial Day Invitational Arts & Crafts Show - Pier Village Parks, St. Simons Island. Pier Village Association. Information: 912-262-0628.

JUNE

June 4 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

June 6 A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music.html

June 13 Jazz in the Park - Enjoy an evening of live jazz music under the stars on the lawn of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Bring a chair or blanket and picnic. Sponsored by Golden Isles Arts & Humanities Association. Information: 912-262-6934 or www.goldenislesarts.org

June 26-27 Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

June 27 Jazz in the Park - Enjoy an evening of live jazz music under the stars on the lawn of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Bring a chair or blanket and picnic. Sponsored by Golden Isles Arts & Humanities Association. Information: 912-262-6934 or www.goldenislesarts.org

JULY

Jul 2 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

July 2-4 Sunshine Festival - Annual family festival features carnival, live entertainment and food, with fireworks July 4. July 3-5Sunshine Festival Arts & Crafts Show. Pier Village Parks, St. Simons Island. Pier Village Association. Information: 912-262-0628.

Old Fashioned July 4 Celebration, Downtown Brunswick

July 4 Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration - Downtown Brunswick. Contact 912-265-4032 or visit www.downtownbrunswickga.com

July 4 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza - Jekyll Island. Contact: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

July 11 A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music.html

July 25 Jazz in the Park - Enjoy an evening of live jazz music under the stars on the lawn of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Bring a chair or blanket and picnic. Sponsored by Golden Isles Arts & Humanities Association. Information: 912-262-6934 or www.goldenislesarts.org

AUGUST

Aug 6 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Aug 8 A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music.html

Aug 20-22 Sea Island Black Heritage Festival - Celebrate African American heritage and culture through live entertainment, craft demonstrations, food and a marketplace. St Simons Island. Information: 912-230-2834 or www.seaislandsblackheritagefestival.com

Aug 20-21 Jekyll Island Beach Music Festival and Barbecue Bash - Information: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

Aug 22 Jazz in the Park - Enjoy an evening of live jazz music under the Aug 30stars on the lawn of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Bring a chair or blanket and picnic. Sponsored by Golden Isles Arts & Humanities Association. Information: 912-262-6934 or www.goldenislesarts.org

SEPTEMBER

Sep 3 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Sep 4-5 Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

Labor Day Invitational Arts & Crafts Show, St. Simons Island

Sept 4-5 Annual Labor Day Invitational Arts & Crafts Show - Postell Park, St. Simons Island. Information: 912-262-0628.

Sept 5 A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music.html

Sep 17-19 Shrimp & Grits: The Wild Georgia Shrimp Festival - A signature cook-off event with participation from amateur and professional chefs throughout the region. The event also features live entertainment throughout the weekend, shrimp-eating contests, a Family Fun Zone, and vendor area complete with an antique and collectables market. Information: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

Sept 19 Jazz in the Park - Enjoy an evening of live jazz music under the stars on the lawn of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Bring a chair or blanket and picnic. Sponsored by Golden Isles Arts & Humanities Association. Information: 912-262-6934 or www.goldenislesarts.org

OCTOBER

Oct 1 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Oct. 2-3 Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

DNR CoastFest, Brunswick

Oct. 2 Dept. of Natural Resources CoastFest - A fun family event celebrating Georgia’s coastal environment and wildlife. Georgia Dept of Natural Resources, Brunswick. Contact: 912-264-7218 or visit www.crd.dnr.state.ga.us

Oct 9 Brunswick Rockin’ Stewbilee - Enjoy a taste of the Georgia Coast during this traditional celebration in historic downtown Brunswick. The day begins with a road race, pet parade and antique car show. Later, local teams compete to see who can prepare the “Best Brunswick Stew.” Contact 912-265-4032 or visit www.brunswickstewbilee.com

Oct 7-10 Colonial Coast Nature and Birding Festival - This festival brings casual and experienced bird enthusiasts from all over the United States to experience Southeast Georgia’s wide variety of habitats and wildlife. The whole family can enjoy a weekend of activities including nature walks, a showcase of vendors and conservation groups, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, special speakers, and informative seminars. Jekyll Island. Information: 912-635-3636 or visit www.coastalgeorgiabirding.org

TBA 41^st Annual Fine Arts and Crafts Festival - Pier Village area, St. Simons Island. Sponsored by the Glynn Art Association. Contact: 912-638-8770 or visit www.glynnart.org

NOVEMBER

Nov 5 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Nov 6-7 Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

Tree Lighting Festival, Downtown Brunswick

Nov 26 Brunswick Tree Lighting Festival - Downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-265-4032 or visit www.downtownbrunswickga.com

TBA Community Christmas Tree Lighting Festival - Celebrate the holiday season with live entertainment, children’s activities, food and fun for the entire family, including a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Contact: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

DECEMBER

Dec 3 First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Dec 4 Brunswick Christmas Parade - Downtown Brunswick. Contact: 912-265-4032 or visit www.downtownbrunswickga.com

Holiday wreath, Maritime Museum, St. Simons Island

Dec 11 Annual Holiday Tour of Homes and Gardens - St. Simons Island and Sea Island. Sponsored by the Cassina Garden Club of St. Simons Island. Tickets are available at local outlets or online at www.cassinagardenclub.org

TBA Annual Plantation Candlelight Tour at Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation - 5556 US Hwy 17 N , Brunswick. Contact: 912-264-7333 or visit www.gastateparks.org/info/hofwyl

TBA Holiday Island Programs - From Nov. 26 - Jan. 1 enjoy a variety of special holiday programs and activities from Historic District light tours to special dinners, musical programs and more. Contact: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

NOTE: All programs are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm. For an up to date listing of local events and activities, please visit our online calendar.

Get Ready for Holiday Fun in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

The weather outside may be frightful (or not), but things are definitely delightful in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia -- St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. The holiday season is rich with sights, sounds and activities that are designed to fill you with good cheer and create lasting memories. Here's a rundown:

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 25 (Thanksgiving)

Holiday Party at Color Me Happy – After a day of feasting and football, gather up the family for an evening of old-fashioned fun. This is a great chance to create some unique Christmas gifts and save money at the same time! 6:00 to 9:00 pm. (912) 554-1900. www.colormehappypottery.com

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 26

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Downtown Brunswick – Live music, Santa Claus, and a reading of Dickens' "The Night Before Christmas" add up for a magical evening that is sure to warm your heart and get you into the holiday spirit. 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Jekyll Square on Newcastle Street. (912) 265-4032. www.brunswickgeorgia.net

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 28

Christmas Tree Lighting Festival – Ring in the holiday season with holiday crafts, games, kids activities, Santa Claus and the lighting of the Jekyll Island Community Christmas Tree. 4:00 to 7:00 pm, National Historic Landmark District, Jekyll Island. (912) 635-3636.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 4

First Friday – Visit the shops, galleries and restaurants of downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations. 5:00 to 8:00 pm along Newcastle Street in downtown Brunswick. (912) 635-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net.

First Friday Fun – Make an ornament or a bookmark for the holidays. 6:00 to 7:30 pm at the Brunswick Library, 208 Gloucester Street, Brunswick. (912) 267-1212. www.trrl.org.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 5

Annual Christmas Parade – Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. 10:00 am. (912) 265-4032. www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Annual Holiday Bazaar – Dozens of vendors offer holiday gifts, arts and crafts, antiques, yard sale items, food and more. 8:00 am to 5:00. Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Bay Street, Brunswick. (912) 262-6934.

Gingerbread House-Making Workshop – Pastry chefs lead this 2-hour, family-friendly workshop. 10:00 am, Jekyll Island Club. Reservations: (912) 625-2600. www.jekyllclub.com.

Christmas Tour of Homes – Visit nine homes and a church in Old Town Brunswick. 1:00 to 6:00 pm. For information and tickets: (912) 280-0650 or (912) 275-7054.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 6

Handel's Messiah – 25th performance by 100-member community chorus representing more than two dozen area churches. 4:00 pm. Strickland Auditorium, Epworth by the Sea, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-5956 or (912) 554-1873.

DECEMBER 6 - 31

The Holidays in History – Tour cottages decorated for the season in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. 11:00 am, 1:00 and 3:00 pm daily except Dec. 24 and 25. Admission. (912) 625-3636. www.jekyllisland.com.

MONDAY DECEMBER 7

Holiday Intermezzo – The Coastal Symphony of Georgia performs orchestral works by Tchaikovsky, Szewczyk and Brahms. 8:00 pm, Glynn Academy Auditorium, Brunswick. (912) 634-2006. www.coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org

SATURDAY DECEMBER 12

The Grand Victorian Tradition – Learn how to make traditional Victorian Christmas cards during this two-hour workshop. 10:00 am, Jekyll Island Club, Jekyll Island. Reservations: (912) 625-2600. www.jekyllclub.com.



Open House at the Lighthouse – Enjoy the lighthouse and keeper's dwelling, decked out in holiday splendor. Be sure to stop by Santa's Shop for unique holiday gifts. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, St. Simons Lighthouse and A.W. Jones Heritage Center, 12th and Beachview, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-4666. www.saintsimonslighthouse.org.


Holiday Family Fun Day – Healthy eating storytime by The Links at 10:45 am, ornament decorating by Color Me Happy at 11:00 am, and a holiday puppet show by Evy Wright of Curious Moon at 11:45 am. Brunswick Library, 208 Gloucester Street, Brunswick. (912) 267-1212 or www.trrl.org.

18th Annual Christmas Craft Festival – featuring works by craftspeople and artists from throughout the southeast. Sponsored by Glynn Art Association. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Postell Park, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-8770 or www.glynnart.org.

25th Annual Christmas Tour of Homes – Visit seven homes with unique holiday decorating ideas. 1:00 to 5:00 pm. Tours begin at the historic tabby cabins at Gascoigne Bluff, St. Simons Island. Holiday bake sale at the cabins from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. For tickets and information: (912) 638-1527. www.cassinagardenclub.org

Especially for Children – An old-fashioned holiday get-together and festival. 1:00 to 5:00 pm, Mildred Huie Museum at Mediterranean House, 1819 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-3017 or www.leftbankgallery.com

Winter Farm Fest – Come play in the snow, ride the sleigh and run our holiday obstacle course. Three Oaks Stables, 332 Oyster Road, Brunswick. (912) 269-0623.

A Dickens Feast – Toast in the Boar's Head Lobby, holiday feast and musical dinner based on Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Jekyll Island Club Hotel, Jekyll Island. Reservations: (912) 635-2600 or www.jekyllclub.com.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 13

18th Annual Christmas Craft Festival – featuring works by craftspeople and artists from throughout the southeast. Sponsored by Glynn Art Association. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Postell Park, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-8770 or www.glynnart.org.

Santa at Crane Cottage – St. Nick welcomes children to Crane Cottage in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. Photographer available for fee. 11:30 am to 2:00 pm. (912) 635-2600 or www.jekyllclub.com

Winter Concert – Coastal Youth Symphony of Georgia. 3:00 pm, Glynn Academy Auditorium, Brunswick. www.coastalgeorgiayouthsymphony.org


DECEMBER 18 - 20

A Christmas Carol – Annual community production of Dickens' holiday classic, starring Brunswick Mayor Bryan Thompson as Scrooge. Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm; Sunday at 3:00 pm. Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle Street, Brunswick. (912) 262-6934. www.goldenislesarts.org


DECEMBER 19-24

Christmas Bagpiper – Scottish bagpiper Tim Akins heralds the season by the Jekyll Island Club, in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. 4:00 pm. (912) 635-2600 or www.jekyllclub.com.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 23

Family Carol Sing – Join on the riverfront veranda of the Jekyll Island Club, to sing carols in Jekyll Island's National Historic Landmark District. Cookies and punch served afterward. 5:00 pm. Reservations: (912) 635-2600 or www.jekyllclub.com.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 25 – CHRISTMAS

TUESDAY DECEMBER 29

Tuesday Tea at Two – Meet and engage in casual conversation with Gallery 209's featured artists, while enjoying tea and delicacies prepared by Suzanne Scaglione. 2:00 to 4:00 pm, Art Downtown / Gallery 209, 209 Gloucester Street, Brunswick. Reservations: (912) 265-0628. www.artdowntowngallery209.com.

HOLIDAY ART EXHIBITS

A Holiday Feast for the Eyes – Selected paintings by gallery artists. Anderson Fine Art Gallery, 3309 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island. (912) 634-8414 www.andersonfineartgallery.com

Holiday Festival of the Arts – Exhibits of plantation personalities by sculptor Mary Whitty, paintings of the 13 original plantations of St. Simons Island, and holiday cards and paintings by Glenda Cason. Left Bank Art Gallery, 3600 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island. (912) 638-3017. www.leftbankartgallery.com

Letters to Santa – Southeast Georgia Health System Outpatient Care Art Gallery, Starling Road in Brunswick. Monday - Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Event details are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm time, place and admission.

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No matter the season, there are endless reasons to visit Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. Discover fascinating museums and historic sites, take a cruise aboard a working shrimp boat, dolphin watch boat or our casino-cruise ship. Play a round of golf, stroll our beautiful beaches or enjoy a leisurely bike ride. You'll also find a wonderful array of shops, boutiques and galleries filled with unique gifts perfect that special someone on your holiday list. Plus, great restaurants wherever you go, and accommodations to fit every taste and budget.

Start your holiday tradition this year, in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. For information, visit our website. While you're there, be sure to check out our Special Offers page, with discounts and other special offers from local hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions. Come Coast Awhile!

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Celebrate coastal history, culture at Glynn Art Fall Festival

Celebrate coastal Georgia history and culture, and enjoy contemporary works by many of the region's best artists and craftspeople, at the 40th Annual Golden Isles Fine Arts and Crafts Festival, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 10 and 11, in Postell Park on Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island.

In addition to featuring works by more than 15o artists, the Association will present a program of Gullah-Geechee performances, workshops, demonstrations and storytelling. The McIntosh County Shouters, Gospel Messengers, Georgia Sea Island Singers, Youth Praise Group and storyteller Cornelia Bailey will entertain and educate during performances Saturday.

Yvonne Grovner, Master Basket Weaver, and Stanley Walker, Master Net Maker, will conduct workshops and demonstrations throughout the day. There also will be a special presentation by Denise White Fields of the African American Museum. Participating artists will exhibit in one of two categories:

• FINE ARTS/GRAPHICS: Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor, Pastel, Charcoal, Pencil, Pen & Ink, Printmaking, Mixed Media, Photography

• FINE CRAFTS: Glass, Jewelry (be specific), Leather, Metal, Pottery/Sculpture, Wood, Textiles, Fiber, Baskets, Wearable Art

This show is a juried event with cash awards for Best of Show, first, second, and third in each category.

Show hours are from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm each day. For more information, call Glynn Art Association at 912-638-8770 or visit them online.

Stewbilee Rocks Downtown Brunswick Saturday Oct. 10

October is Festival Month in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia, with festivals, art shows and special events nearly every weekend this month. This coming weekend is no exception, as downtown Brunswick gears up for the fifth annual Brunswick Stewbilee at Mary Ross Waterfront Park.

This traditional small-town festival brings together a lot of big-town talent to compete in the annual Brunswick Stew cookoff. More than 60 teams, representing local and regional corporations, government agencies, civic groups and other organizations, will face off in "Peoples' Choice" and professionally judged competition, for the honor of having their concoctions named "Best Brunswick Stew." Teams also will be judged for having the most creative presentation in their booths.


Saturday’s events begin at 8:00 am with the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Georgia 5K Freedom Run. This is the first year for the Club to handle the logistics of the Run. Interested runners and walkers can register online at www.brunswickstewbilee.com. Proceeds from the Run benefit local programs for the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia.

The Pooch Parade is being organized by the Brunswick Women’s Club. All area pooches are invited to put on their finest dogwear and enter their owners in the parade. Prizes are awarded for the best costumes, and all registration money for the parade goes to local animal control and the Humane Society.

The Brunswick Stew Tasting Contest begins at 11:30 a.m. as more than 60 teams vie for top honors of the tastiest stew. Brunswick, Ga. "The Brunswick Kiwanis Club is again excited to work with many other community groups and businesses to bring a world-class event to Brunswick," said Shaw McVeigh, of the Brunswick Kiwanis Club, which organizes the stew tasting contest. “If you have a Brunswick stew that always receives praise, then we encourage you to come to our area and size it up against some stiff competition.”

Festival goers will have many activities from which to choose as they enjoy the Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee, including a classic car and motorcycle show, arts and crafts, and the ever popular "Junior Stewbie" fun zone for kids. Local and regional bands, including Malarkey, Marshgrass Bluegrass, WharfRatz, StringRays, OSKAR Rockhammer, and Dennis and the Menace, will perform in a free open-air concert throughout the day.

The Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee is sponsored by Southeast Georgia Health System, The Brunswick News, Golden Isles Broadcasting, Comcast, H20 Creative Group, Brunswick Kiwanis Club and the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds from the event support local charities including Boys & Girls Club of the Golden Isles, animal control, the Humane Society, and the United Way of Coastal Georgia. For more information on the Stewbilee, visit www.brunswickstewbilee.com.