Spring ushers in warm temperatures as well as a season of fun festivals throughout the state. They celebrate everything from different cultures to books to cherry trees, and Georgia spring festivals offer something for people of all ages.
AJC Atlanta Calendar: Atlanta festivals
Check out the following seven Georgia springtime festivals that are worth the drive from Atlanta:
Savannah Music Festival
Dates: March 29-April 14
Distance from Atlanta: approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes
What's offered: For the 29th year, the Savannah Music Festival will bring a broad variety of music to the city, including country, folk, jazz and chamber. It features more than 100 productions over 17 days and brings around 500 musical artists to Savannah each year.
Tickets:Prices vary according to the artist featured. Ticket bundles are available and allow you to see several artists for a lower price. Bundle themes include Guitar Heroes and Female Focus.
Credit: Glenn Grossman/cherryblossom.com
Credit: Glenn Grossman/cherryblossom.com
International Cherry Blossom Festival – Macon
Dates: March 16-25
Distance from Atlanta: approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
What's offered: Macon celebrates its status as Cherry Blossom Capital of the World since the city has over 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees. Take a self-guided tour of The Cherry Blossom Trail, or take part in a street party with Chaka Khan. Other events, including concerts and pageants, are also held.
Tickets: Prices vary according to the specific event. Admission to Central City Park, which includes 10 days of rides, exhibits, shows and food, costs $5, and children under 10 are free.
Credit: nowhabersham.com
Credit: nowhabersham.com
Bavarianfest – Helen
Dates: 6-11 p.m. March 26
Distance from Atlanta: approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes
What's offered: Enjoy a festive Bavarian atmosphere with a live Oompa Band, dancing and more, plus drinks and snacks such as beer, wine, wursts on a bun, sauerkraut and pretzels.
Tickets: $8 per person, with active and retired military free plus one free guest
Strawberry Festival at The Rock Ranch
Dates: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 21
Distance from Atlanta: approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
What's offered: Pick your own strawberries, buy them already picked, or try some homemade strawberry ice cream. You can also participate in activities such as zip lining, fishing with a cane pole and mining for gemstones.
Tickets: $13 per person, plus tax, for guests over the age of 2. Some activities cost extra.
Credit: news.uga.edu
Credit: news.uga.edu
UGA International Street Festival – Athens
Dates: noon to 5 p.m. April 7
Distance from Atlanta: approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
What's offered: In a family-friendly event that's open to the general public, The University of Georgia's more than 20 international and multicultural student organizations sponsor interactive displays as well as music and dance performances. Foods from different cultures will also be offered.
Tickets: No tickets needed
Dahlonega Literary Festival
Dates: March 24-25
Distance from Atlanta: approximately one hour and 10 minutes
What's offered: Book lovers can attend programs, workshops, book signings, author lunches and other events featuring a variety of writers, including legendary former Georgia football coach Vince Dooley.
Tickets: Admission is free.
St. Patrick's Day Festival - Savannah
Dates: 10 a.m. to midnight each day March 16-17
What's offered: Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at River Street and City Market with live entertainment and activities. You'll also be able to interact with artists, get a souvenir at a photo booth and sample food and beverages including traditional green beer.
Tickets: $10 per day
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