2011 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

Feb 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

Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run
Credit: Southeast Georgia Health System

Feb 19     Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run - Georgia's toughest 5K run traverses the Sidney Lanier Bridge. USTFA certified event. Other events include 5K walk and various family activities. Information: 912-258-8220 or www.active.com/running/brunswick-ga/southeast-georgia-health-system-bridge-run-ninth-annual-2011

Living history at Fort Frederica

Feb 19-20     Living History Encampment at Fort Frederica - Celebrate the 275th anniversary of the founding of Fort Frederica, 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 or www.nps.gov/fofr

Feb 20     9th Annual UGA 4H Tidelands Art Sale - Local artists display their artwork for sale to benefit UGA 4-H Tidelands Nature Center. Items for sale will include pottery, metalwork, paintings, photography, jewelry, stained glass and more. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Magnolia Hall on Jekyll Island's Historic Convention Campus. 912-635-3636 or www.jekyllisland.com

MARCH

First Friday, downtown Brunswick

Mar 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


Mar 11-13      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 or www.jekyllisland.com

Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale

Mar 11-12     Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale - A 220+ -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 19     58th Annual Christ Church Tour of Homes - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, St. Simons Island. For tickets and information, call 912-638-8683 or visit www.christchurchtourofhomes.org

Arts and Crafts Show, St. Simons Island

Mar 19-20      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 25-27     US Kids Golf Jekyll Island Cup - Young golfers, ages 6 to 14, compete for individual honors on Jekyll Island's beautiful golf courses. This tournament is one of several regional tournaments produced by the US Kids Golf Foundation. 912-635-3636 or www.jekyllisland.com

APRIL

Apr 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

Antique Show and Sale, St. Simons Island

Apr 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


Apr 9-10     18th Annual Glynn Art in the Park Spring Fine 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

Easter Egg Stroll
Credit: Jekyll Island Auth.

Apr 23     Easter Egg Stroll - A family-friendly Easter gathering in the Jekyll Island Historic District. Search and find Easter Eggs hidden along Pier Road, get pictures with Easter Bunny, and enjoy pony rides and other activities. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Eggs will be hidden and re-hidden throughout the festival. Special section for kids 3 and under. 912-635-3636 or www.jekyllisland.com

MAY

May 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

Cassina Garden Club slave cabin.
Credit: Cassina Garden Club

May 7-8     Tabby & Tillandsia Garden Walk, Garden Market & Photographic Exhibition - St. Simons Island. Information: www.cassinagardenclub.org

May 8     Annual Blessing of the Fleet - Mary Ross Waterfront Park, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-265-4032 or visit www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Scribblers Retreat Writers Workshop
Credit: Scribblers Retreat

May 12-14      Scribblers Retreat Writers Workshop - Multi-day writers workshop features regional and nationally known writers, discussing a range of topics and genres. King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, St. Simons Island. 800-996-2904 or www.scribblersretreatwritersconference.com


May 15     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

Turtle Crawl Triathlon
Credit: Jekyll Island Authority

May 21     Turtle Crawl Triathlon and Nest Fest - The Jekyll Island Turtle Crawl & Nest Fest is a USAT sanctioned Olympic and Sprint Distance Triathlon produced by DRC Sports and 5K Fun Run produced by Milestone Race Authority. Events culminate with the Saturday afternoon release of a rehabilitated sea turtle from the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Events benefit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island. 912-635-3636 or www.jekyllisland.com

May 28-29     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 28-29     Annual Memorial Day Invitational Arts & Crafts Show - Pier Village Parks, St. Simons Island. Pier Village Association. Information: 912-262-0628 or www.artdowntowngallery209.com

JUNE

'Mr. Wiggles' at Hattie's Books
Downtown Brunswick

June 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

June 12     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 18-19     Georgia Sea Islands Festival - Information: www.ssiheritagecoalition.org/festivals.html

June 25-26      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

JULY

July 4 Fireworks
St. Simons Island

Jul 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

July 2-4     Sunshine Festival Arts & Crafts Show - Postell Park, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. Pier Village Association. Information: 912-262-0628 or www.artdowntowngallery209.com

July 3     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

Brunswick Fourth of July celebration

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

AUGUST

Aug 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

A Little Light Music
St. Simons Island

Aug 7     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


Aug 11-13     Scribblers Retreat Writers Workshop - Multi-day writers workshop features regional and nationally known writers, discussing a range of topics and genres. King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, St. Simons Island. 800-996-2904 or www.scribblersretreatwritersconference.com

Beach Music Festival
Credit: Jekyll Island Authority

Aug 11-13     Jekyll Island Beach Music Festival - Information: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

Aug 19-21     Sea Islands 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

SEPTEMBER

Color Me Happy,
Downtown Brunswick

Sep 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

Sep 3-4     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

Sept 3-4     Annual Labor Day Invitational Arts & Crafts Show - Postell Park, St. Simons Island. Information: 912-262-0628 or www.artdowntowngallery209.com

Sept 4     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

Shrimp & Grits
Credit: Jekyll Island Authority

Sep 16-18     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

OCTOBER

Oct. 1-2     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 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


Oct. 8     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/

Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee

 Oct 8     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 8-9      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

Seaside Golf Course
Credit: McGladrey Classic

Oct 10-16     McGladrey Classic Golf Tournament - This PGA Fall Tour event is played on the Seaside Course at the Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island. Information: www.mcgladreyclassic.com

NOVEMBER

Nov 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

Brunswick Tree Lighting Festival

Nov 5-6     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

Nov 10-12     Scribblers Retreat Writers Workshop - Multi-day writers workshop features regional and nationally known writers, discussing a range of topics and genres. King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, St. Simons Island. 800-996-2904 or www.scribblersretreatwritersconference.com

Nov 25     Brunswick Tree Lighting Festival - Downtown Brunswick, 6:30 pm. Information: 912-265-4032 or visit www.downtownbrunswickga.com

Community Christmas Tree
Credit: Jekyll Island Authority

TBA     Jekyll Island Community Christmas Tree Lighting Festival - Celebrate the arrival of 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 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

Brunswick Christmas Parade

Dec 2-3     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

Dec 3     Brunswick Christmas Parade - Downtown Brunswick. Parade begins at 10:00 am along Gloucester Street. Contact: 912-265-4032 or visit www.downtownbrunswickga.com

Dec 10     27th 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     20th Annual Glynn Art in the Park Holiday Market Festival - Glynn Art Association, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. Contact: 912-638-8770 or www.glynnart.org

TBA     Holidays in History Programs - From Nov. 25 - 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.


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Georgia's longest yard sale links Brunswick and The Golden Isles to central Georgia

Georgia's longest yard sale, the Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale, takes place March 11 and 12. This 220+ -mile long treasure hunt follows US Highway 341 from Culloden in central Georgia to Brunswick and The Golden Isles on the Georgia coast.

Yard Sale sites will be located in Culloden, Roberta, Fort Valley, Perry, Hawkinsville, Cochran, Eastman, Helena, McRae, Lumber City, Hazlehurst, Graham, Baxley, Surrency, Odum, Screven, Jesup, Brunswick, and the Golden Isles. The Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale will be open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Each community has its own "official" yard sale site, which is identified by Peaches to the Beaches signs and banners. In addition, you'll typically find "unofficial" yard sales at shops, homes, churches and other sites along the way. Offerings are what you would expect for any yard sale or flea market, and run the gamut from antiques and collectibles to arts and crafts, used clothing and household items and, of course, all sorts of food.

The first Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale was held in 2005 and ran from Perry, Georgia to the coast. Highway 341, which is now four lanes all the way from Perry to Brunswick, is a beautiful drive that takes you through at least a dozen small towns and villages.  

Peaches to the Beaches is modeled after the "World's Longest Yard Sale," which covers 654 miles from Ohio to Gadsden Alabama. It was begun by Evelyn Simmons, then interim president of the Golden Isles Parkway Association, which organizes the yearly event.

Held the second weekend in March, the annual sale's popularity has grown and the route has expanded from its original 172 miles to more than 220. Many "early birds" flock to the Friday sales in search of the best treasures, though Saturday seems to be the biggest sale day. 
 
If you're looking for a delightful weekend activity, consider a road trip to the Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale. It's a great way to explore a beautiful segment of Georgia!

Lace up your running shoes and head to Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

Attention, runners! Lace up those shoes and get ready to run amid the beautiful surroundings of Brunswick and The Golden Isles! During February you can participate in two great running events: the annual Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run in Brunswick and the annual Super Dolphin Day Race on St. Simons Island.

SOUTHEAST GA HEALTH SYSTEM BRIDGE RUN - Feb. 19

Georgia's toughest 5K run takes place Saturday, Feb. 19 in Brunswick, GA. The ninth annual Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run will take competitors over the Sidney Lanier Bridge, the state's tallest cable stayed suspension bridge at 480 feet and 7,000 feet long. The U.S. Track and Field Association certified the run in 2006.

In addition to the run, there will be a variety of family activities including a 5K walk, an interactive fishing booth provided by the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources, live entertainment, and food vendors.

The event begins at the southern foot of the bridge on Highway 17. To accommodate the anticipated crowd size of approximately 2,000 runners and walkers, there are new start times for the 2011 event:

• 8:30 a.m. Runners (Individuals)
• 9:00 a.m. Fire Fighter Challenge
• 9:10 a.m. Teams (Runners & Walkers)
• 9:30 a.m. Walkers (Individuals)

The awards presentation will take place at approximately 11 a.m. on stage.

Registration is $25 by Feb. 12 and $35 thereafter. For persons joining a team of 10 or more members, are $23 per person. All runners must register prior to the race-there will be no race day registration for runners this year. Walkers, however, will be able to register the day of the race. Because of the steep grade of the bridge, no strollers or inline skates will be allowed.

There will be a pre-run pasta party Friday, Feb. 18 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on the deck of Coastal Kitchen Seafood and Raw Bar at the Morningstar Golden Isles Marina on St. Simons Island. Participants will be able to pick up their pre-registration packets, race numbers and t-shirts at the party.

Proceeds from the run will benefit Southeast Georgia Health System's cancer programs.

Registration forms are available online. For more information, contact Susan Bates at 912-466-5165 or 912-258-8220.

SUPER DOLPHIN DAY RACE - Feb. 26

Photo: www.superdolphinday.com

The 33nd annual Super Dolphin Day Race will take place Saturday, Feb. 26. Events include certified 5K and 10K races and a one mile Fun Run. The 10K run will begin at 7:30 am. The Mile Fun Run will begin at 9:00 am followed by the 5K race at 10:00. The event will take place at the St. Simons Island Casino, 530 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island.

The traditional pre-race pasta party will take place in the St. Simons Island Elementary School cafeteria, Friday Feb. 25 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The Silent Auction starts at the Pasta Party (5:30) and concludes on Race Day at 10:45. Winners announced during awards ceremony.

Super Dolphin Day is the largest fundraiser for St. Simons and Oglethorpe Point Elementary Schools. All donations are tax-deductible and go to support the schools' PTAs. Entrants can register during the pasta party, or on race day up to 30 minutes prior to their event. Registration forms and information are available at the official website, or you may register online at www.active.com.

* * *

The Golden Isles Track Club maintains an online calendar of running events throughout the area. Information can be found online.

Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia -- St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island -- offer more than 6,000 hotel rooms in properties that range from convenient Interstate hotels to bed and breakfast inns, island hotels and resorts, condominium and cottage rentals, and campgrounds. For information about special offers, please visit our Special Offers page.


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St. Simons Island photographer documents 'international' voyage in new exhibit

Imagine taking a trip around the world without ever leaving the country, and without going online to do it. Harlan Hambright did it, without leaving the state of Georgia.

Plains, Geogia

Hambright's "international" journey is documented in a new photo exhibit at the Historic Ritz Theatre in downtown Brunswick. Entitled, "The Idiat and the Odd-yssey: The Adventures of Odyfferus through International Georgia," the exhibit features selected images from Hambright's recently published book of the same name.*

Inspired by Homer's The Odyssey, Hambright's book follows his alter ego, Odyfferus, on a photographic journey through towns in Georgia that are named for or have names similar to places around the globe. His "discoveries" include "pyramids" in Cairo, "temples" in Athens, a "shroud" in Turin, a library in Ephesus and the barber of Seville, among many others.

Many of the places documented in Hambright's book are shadows of their former glory. "As we proceed headlong into the twenty-first century," he writes in the book's introduction, "evidence of previous generations–primarily railroad- and agriculture-oriented communities–are being treated as so many leaves lying on the ground. Bypassed and ignored, once-thriving towns are literally crumbling apart. This project is not a criticism of that process, just an acknowledgment and record of it."

Jamaica, Georgia

Covering more than 60 places through Georgia, Hambright's images are at times ironic, often wistful. Throughout is a deep appreciation for place and architectural detail, honed by more than 30 years of experience as an architect, photographer and artist.

"Georgia obviously has a rich history and heritage," he writes in the afterword. "An admittedly limited, but significant segment of its present condition is documented here and its future is up for grabs. What a shame it would be for an entire state's remaining historically and architecturally significant resources (buildings and whole towns) be allowed to fall into an irreparable state based solely on temporal economic factors."

A shame indeed.

A farmer's roadside stand at Corinth, Georgia

In closing, Hambright suggests that readers (and viewers) consider "allowing an extra hour or two and take the 'blue highways' instead of the Interstate and experience the real Georgia, its real people, and its real history. Slow down a little. Stop at a family-owned BBQ joint instead of a fast food franchise. Get a snack at a farmer's roadside stand instead of a convenient store. (They tend to have good boiled p-nuts.)  Meet and experience the real, if disappearing, Georgia and help keep it alive."

___________________________________

"The Idiat and the Odd-yssey: The Adventures of Odyfferus through International Georgia" runs Jan. 7-29 in the gallery space of the Historic Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle Street in downtown Brunswick. The exhibit opens with a free public reception during First Friday, Jan. 7, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. Copies of Hambright's book will be available at The Ritz on opening night and throughout the run of the show.

In addition to the opening night reception, the exhibit is available for viewing during regular Ritz hours, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, or by appointment. For more information call Golden Isles Arts and Humanities (GIAHA) at 912-262-6934 or visit them online.

* The Idiat and the Odd-yssey: The adventures of Odyfferus through International Georgia. Published 2010 by Crawdad Studio and Gallery, St. Simons Island, Georgia. ISBN 9-780974-406312


Images © 2010 by Harlan Hambright

A Christmas Wonderland in Brunswick and the Golden Isles

A band of merry cherubs hails the arrival of guests.

In spite of all the foot-dragging and complaining I do, I actually like decorating the house for Christmas once I've gotten into it. Bringing out ornaments collected over 30 years of marriage and marveling at the various events that have taken place during our family life is probably one of my favorite parts of the holidays.

Stacy Bass and his partner, Jay Anderson,
operate Brunswick Manor, a bed and
breakfast inn in Old Town Brunswick.

Over time I've had the pleasure and privilege of meeting people who really get into the Christmas season, turning their homes into Christmas wonderlands and sharing their enthusiasm with friends and family. Among them are Stacy Bass who, along with his partner Jay Anderson, operates Brunswick Manor in Old Town Brunswick.

Brunswick Manor is housed in the 1886 home of Maj. Columbia Downing, a Brunswick businessman. This beautifully restored mansion features a large central hall, parlor, library, dining and guest suite on the first floor and three large guest suites on the second floor. Each, along with the veranda and orchid room, has been transformed for the season with its own Christmas tree and other holiday touches.

A 12-foot Christmas tree, illuminated by 10,000 lights and
adorned by 2,000 Christopher Radko ornaments, dominates
the inn's Main Parlor.

The centerpiece of this Christmas wonderland is the Main Parlor, which is dominated by a 12-foot Christmas tree adorned with 10,000 lights and 2,000 ornaments created by designer Christopher Radko. Bass acquired his first Christopher Radko ornaments in 1986, the year they were introduced, and has been collecting them ever since. Produced using European glassblowing techniques, Radko ornaments are highly prized for their color, quality and designs.

Produced using European glassblowing
techniques, Radko ornaments are highly
prized for their color, quality and designs.

Normally, it takes Stacy and a four-person crew three to four days to decorate the mansion, beginning the day after Thanksgiving. This year, however, they had an unexpected surprise.

"I was contacted in June by a representative of the Discovery Channel," he explains. "They wanted to come and videotape an episode of 'Extreme Christmas Trees,' showing everything from start to finish." To prepare for the taping, Stacy and his colleagues had to begin decorating early, having everything ready for the crew's arrival. Everything, that is, except for the tree itself.

"The plan was to shoot the room without the tree, the tree installation, and then the decorating and tree lighting -- all in one day."

The shoot began at 8:00 am the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. There were some tense moments, including when the tree and the extra lights for videotaping began blowing the circuit breakers. An emergency call was made to a local electrician, who installed a new circuit and saved the day. Shooting finally ended shortly after midnight, making for a very long day.

A crew of eight set up, illuminated and decorated the tree
for the "Extreme Christmas Trees" videotaping, which
began at 8:00 am and wrapped up after midnight.

"It was indeed a long day for all of us, but we are thrilled and honored to be featured on the program," Bass says. "It will be great exposure for Brunswick Manor, and for the city. We can't wait to see it."

According to producer Shayne Shnapier, the program is scheduled to appear on the TLC network during the 2011 Christmas season. To learn more about Brunswick Manor, visit them online.

Brunswick Golden Isles CVB hires Scott McQuade as new CEO

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 15, 2010

Brunswick Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau
names Scott McQuade as CEO

Watch Newspapers

BRUNSWICK, GEORGIA – The Brunswick Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau (BGICVB) has hired Scott McQuade as its new chief executive officer to lead the region’s marketing efforts, beginning in mid-January. His primary charge will be to increase the volume of visitors to the region and will focus on elevating the overall importance of the tourist economy.

The Brunswick Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau engaged Searchwide, the industry’s premier recruiting firm, to assist in the duty of finding a new executive to guide the organization. 

"The board of directors has understood that hiring a CEO would be a crucial decision in the organization’s future,” said Joel Meyer, BGICVB chairman of the board. “We have been fortunate to have had a solid foundation established by Bill Tipton and his staff. We are extremely confident that Scott will be able to lead the Convention and Visitors Bureau through a period of some exciting changes in the future and beyond.”  

McQuade comes to the Golden Isles from Telluride, Colorado where he has led the resort area through an impressive transformation during the past five years. Telluride, like many resorts, has seen its best tourism days in recent years but more significantly it has weathered the recession far better than many of its impressive list of competitors.

McQuade’s experience also includes serving as Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Sugarloaf USA in Maine and has extensive experience in global corporate advertising. He has a proven track record in marketing and taking organizations to the next level.

"I look forward to starting this new role in the Golden Isles as I see great potential for the region,” said McQuade. “We will be working hard to ensure we provide the best tools in the industry to engage and attract the visitors.”  

The Brunswick Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau is a non-profit destination marketing organization.  The CVB’s purpose is to create and coordinate the promotion of tourism in Brunswick and The Golden Isles–St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island.

The CVB oversees the operation of three Visitors Centers in Glynn County.

# # #

MEDIA CONTACT:

Patrick Saylor, Public Relations Director

Faulkenberry Certain Advertising

Ph: 912-638-7770

Cell: 912-230-5030

Email: psaylor@ComeCoastAwhile.com

Enjoy the holidays 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:

DECEMBER 1 - 31

The Holidays in History – Tour Jekyll Island's National Historic Landmark District, decorated for the holidays and reflecting traditions from the Victorian era to the Jazz Age. Tours at 11:00 am, 1:00 and 3:00 pm daily except Dec. 24 and 25. Admission. (912) 635-3636 or jekyllisland.com.

Christmas Nativity Exhibit – Enjoy displays of nativity scenes from around the world. Arthur J. Moore Methodist Museum, St. Simons Island. Hours 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Tuesday - Saturday. Closed Sundays, Mondays and holidays. (912) 638-4050 or mooremethodistmuseum.org.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 3

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 brunswickgeorgia.net.

29th Annual Christmas on the Old Plantation – Learn how Christmas was celebrated on a Southern rice plantation during the 1850s. Take a candlelit stroll down the old carriage road and enjoy tours of the antebellum plantation house, hot wassail and cookies, Civil War reenactors, Christmas carols and a special appearance by Santa Claus. 6:00 to 9:00 pm, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, US Hwy. 17 North, Brunswick. Admission. (912) 264-7333 or gastateparks.org/HofwylBroadfield.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 4

Annual Christmas Parade – Gloucester Street, downtown Brunswick. 10:00 am. (912) 265-4032. 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 pm. Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Bay Street, Brunswick. (912) 262-6934.

19th 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 glynnart.org.

Gingerbread House Making Workshop – Assemble and decorate your own gingerbread house using materials prepared ahead of time by the Jekyll Island Club Hotel's pastry chefs. 10:00 am, Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Reservations required. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

Christmas Tour of Homes – Tour historic Old Town Brunswick homes decorated for the holidays. Holiday bake sale. Portion of the proceeds benefits restoration and maintenance of Oak Grove Cemetery. 1:00 to 6:00 pm. Admission. Tickets and tour booklets available at First United Methodist Church, 1400 Norwich St., Brunswick. (912) 265-4313.

Silver Screen Saturday: "Miracle on 34th Street" – Enjoy a Christmas classic for the whole family. 3:00 pm, Historic Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St., Brunswick. Admission. (912) 262-6934 or goldenislesarts.org.

29th Annual Christmas on the Old Plantation – Learn how Christmas was celebrated on a Southern rice plantation during the 1850s. Take a candlelit stroll down the old carriage road and enjoy candlelit tours of the antebellum plantation house, hot wassail and cookies, Civil War reenactors, Christmas carols and a special appearance by Santa Claus. 6:00 to 9:00 pm, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, US Hwy. 17 North, Brunswick. Admission. (912) 264-7333 or gastateparks.org/HofwylBroadfield.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 5

19th 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 glynnart.org.

MONDAY DECEMBER 6

A Downing Christmas – Brunswick Manor welcomes you to tour this historic mansion, decorated in its holiday splendor, enjoy signature cocktails and live music and holiday dinner featuring recipes from the Downing family who lived in the grand home from 1886 to 1955. 6:30 pm, Brunswick Manor, 825 Egmont St., Brunswick. Reservations required. (912) 265-6889 or BrunswickManor.com.

Christmas Around the World – The Coastal Symphony of Georgia performs holiday favorites by Britten, Corelli and Rimsky-Korsakov. 7:30 pm Glynn Academy Auditorium, 1001 Mansfield St., Brunswick. Admission. (912) 634-2006 or coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8

Holiday High Tea – Enjoy one of the highlights of the holiday season, high tea in the Grand Dining Room of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel. The chefs have prepared a special menu of tea sandwiches, savories and petite pastries. 4:00 pm. Reservations required. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

DECEMBER 10-12

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. Historic Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle Street, Brunswick. Admission. (912) 262-6934. goldenislesarts.org.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 11

Pier Village Holiday Celebration – Celebrate the holidays with a maritime flavor, as St. Simons Island welcomes Santa's arrival by boat. Live music, refreshments. Mallery Street Plaza at the Pier, St. Simons Island. 1:00 to 5:00 pm.

26th Annual Christmas Tour of Homes – Visit five homes with unique holiday decorating ideas. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Tours begin at the historic tabby cabins at Gascoigne Bluff, St. Simons Island. Holiday bake sale at the cabins from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. For tickets and information: (912) 638-2880. cassinagardenclub.org.

Dickens Feast – Gather in the Boar's Head Lobby of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel for a toast to Christmas Present. Follow the merrymakers into the Grand Dining Room for a holiday feast and theatre production based on Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," featuring the Atlanta Acting Company. 7:30 pm. Reservations required. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

Satchel and Sadie's Best Friends Bash – A fund-raiser beneath the stars to benefit the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia, featuring live music, holiday hors d'oeuvres by Straton Hall Catering and a cash bar. Halifax Square, Egmont and Prince Streets, Brunswick. Admission. (912) 264-1191 or BrunswickManor.com.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 12

Santa at Crane Cottage – Visit with Santa in historic Crane Cottage in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. Photographer available. 11:30 am to 2:00 pm. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

Coastal Youth Symphony of Georgia – 3:00 pm, Glynn Academy Auditorium, 1001 Mansfield St., Brunswick. Admission. (912) 634-2006 or coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org.

MONDAY DECEMBER 13

A Downing Christmas – Brunswick Manor welcomes you to tour this historic mansion, decorated in its holiday splendor, enjoy signature cocktails and live music and holiday dinner featuring recipes from the Downing family who lived in the grand home from 1886 to 1955. 6:30 pm, Brunswick Manor, 825 Egmont St., Brunswick. Reservations required. (912) 265-6889 or BrunswickManor.com.

DECEMBER 17 - 19

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. Historic Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle Street, Brunswick. (912) 262-6934 or goldenislesarts.org.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 18

Sea-sons Greetings – Meet Santa, make a recycled ornament and visit sea turtle patients. Noon. Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Jekyll Island. (912) 635-4444 or jekyllisland.com.

DECEMBER 20-24

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 jekyllclub.com.

MONDAY DECEMBER 20

A Downing Christmas – Brunswick Manor welcomes you to tour this historic mansion, decorated in its holiday splendor, enjoy signature cocktails and live music and holiday dinner featuring recipes from the Downing family who lived in the grand home from 1886 to 1955. 6:30 pm, Brunswick Manor, 825 Egmont St., Brunswick. Reservations required. (912) 265-6889 or BrunswickManor.com.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 23

Christmas Caroling – Meet at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel for caroling in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. 5:00 pm. (912) 635-2600 or jekyllclub.com.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 25 – CHRISTMAS

HOLIDAY ART EXHIBITS

The Holiday Show – A selection of small paintings by gallery artists. 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, Anderson Fine Art Gallery, St. Simons Island. (912) 634-8414 or AndersonFineArtGallery.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. (912) 262-0628 or ArtDowntownGallery209.com.

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!