12-23-2024 5:35pm

Things to Do this Week in the Heart of Georgia

Nate Weeks Editor

There are many unique ways to celebrate this week in Middle Georgia (Photograph courtesy of Nubia Navarro (nubikini) on Pexel.com)

As the holiday season arrives and the end of the year is fast approaching, Middle Georgia offers a delightful array of festive activities to brighten your days and nights. From family-friendly gatherings with Santa to elegant Christmas feasts, lively music, and thought-provoking cultural forums, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this week. Whether you’re looking to sing your heart out at karaoke, explore historical landmarks, or even dance to celebrate the New Year, this week’s events promise unforgettable memories and plenty of holiday spirit to make the most of this magical time in the heart of Georgia.

MONDAY, December 23rd

Santa Claus at Buffington’s in Milledgeville (6-8 p.m.)

Buffington’s in Milledgeville will host an evening of family-friendly magic as Santa Claus makes a special appearance. This free event offers kids the chance to meet the big man in red, share their Christmas wishes, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to start the Christmas week with joy and holiday cheer.

> Buffington’s: 120 West Hancock Street, Milledgeville

TUESDAY, December 24th

Christmas Eve Nativity Pageant at St. Joseph Catholic Church (6:30 p.m.)

Celebrate Christmas with the Christmas Eve Nativity Pageant at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Macon. Held immediately before the 6:30 p.m. Mass, this beloved tradition invites children from grades 3K through 9th to participate as key figures in the nativity story, from Mary and Joseph to the Angel Gabriel and even the donkey. Families are encouraged to sign up their little ones and volunteer for roles in this community event.

> St. Joseph Catholic Church: 830 Poplar Street, Macon

Ugly Sweater Christmas Karaoke at Billy’s Clubhouse (9:30 p.m.)

Get into the festive spirit with Ugly Sweater Christmas Karaoke at Billy’s Clubhouse. Guests are invited to don their tackiest holiday attire and belt out their favorite holiday tunes in this lively and cheerful event hosted by Canipe. Enjoy drink specials, including $2 Fireball shots and $3 margaritas, while celebrating Christmas Eve with music and camaraderie.

> Billy's Clubhouse: 1580 Forest Hill Road, Macon

WEDNESDAY, December 25th

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE MIDDLE GEORGIA TIMES!

Christmas Dinner at Hotel Forty Five (4-9 p.m.)

Hotel Forty Five's Loom is offering a Christmas feast this year. Chef Jayson Reynolds, a James Beard nominee, has crafted a holiday menu that blends traditional favorites with a Southern flair. From baked brie appetizers to decadent desserts, this curated dining experience is the perfect way to enjoy the holiday in style. You'll need reservations, so please be sure to secure your spot for this culinary celebration. Call (478) 216-9910 to reserve a spot or visit this link.

> Hotel Forty Five: 401 Cotton Avenue, Macon

THURSDAY, December 26th

HAPPY KWANZA FROM THE MIDDLE GEORGIA TIMES!

ROAD TRIP: Magical Flight to the North Pole at Stone Mountain Park (6-8:45 p.m.)

Embark on a magical journey to the North Pole at Stone Mountain Park. Park guests can take an Enchanted Sleigh Ride, a unique Skyride experience that whisks them through the Northern Lights to Santa’s Workshop atop the mountain. Tickets to a Magical Flight to the North Pole start at $19.99 (for the flight only) online at this link.

> Stone Mountain Park: 1000 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, Stone Mountain

FRIDAY, December 27th

Disney Night at the Macon Mayhem Game in the Macon Coliseum (7 p.m.)

Join the Macon Mayhem for a night of hockey and Disney magic. The Pensacola Ice Flyers will be facing off against the Macon Mayhem and fans will enjoy a game surrounded by the sights and sounds of their favorite Disney characters. Bring the family and experience a night of fun, nostalgia, and hockey action. Tickets for the game start at $13 online at this link.

> Macon Coliseum: 200 Coliseum Drive, Macon

ROAD TRIP: Asian Night Market at Pratt Pullman District in Atlanta (6-11 p.m.)

Celebrate culture and cuisine at the Asian Night Market at Pratt Pullman District in Atlanta. This vibrant event features AAPI artists, crafters, food vendors, and organizations. Guests can indulge in delicious dishes, explore unique arts and crafts, and even roller skate. With free entry and hourly parking, this family-friendly event is a unique way to spend some time making memories together.

> Pratt Pullman District: 156 Rogers Street NE, Atlanta

Free Lance Ruckus at Grant's Lounge (9 p.m.)

Free Lance Ruckus is an alternative Americana rock band from Middle Georgia that stays busy entertaining fans of live music all over Middle Georgia. They will perform on the historic Grant's Lounge stage on Friday evening. Tickets cost $10 online at this link or at the door.

> Grant's Lounge: 576 Poplar Street, Macon

A Sugar Virus Christmas at The Hummingbird (9 p.m.-1 a.m.)

Experience a different kind of holiday concert with Sugar Virus, a local Horror Punk Doom Metal band, performing live at The Hummingbird. Tombstone Blue will be the openers for the concert, fans of high-energy rock won’t want to miss this show. There’s a $5 cover charge at the door for this show.

> The Hummingbird Stage and Taproom: 430 Cherry Street, Macon

The Chryslers at 20’s Pub (9 p.m.-2 a.m.)

Dance the night away with The Chryslers at 20’s Pub this Friday. This band brings your favorite rock & roll dance hits to life in an evening of nonstop entertainment. With no cover charge, it’s the perfect way to spend a Friday night with friends and great music.

> 20’s Pub: 3076 Riverside Drive, Macon

SATURDAY, December 28th

Free Tai Chi Classes at St. Francis Episcopal Church (9-10 a.m.)

Start your weekend with relaxation and mindfulness at free Tai Chi classes hosted by Jeff Hobaugh at St. Francis Episcopal Church. This gentle form of exercise promotes wellness, balance, and stress relief, making it perfect for participants of all ages and fitness levels. No experience is necessary, so bring a friend and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

> St. Francis Episcopal Church: 432 Forest Hill Road, Macon

Tree Planting Day at Amerson River Park (1-3 p.m.)

Join the community for a Tree Planting Day at Amerson River Park. Volunteers will plant native trees near the playground in Amerson River Park to enhance the park’s natural beauty and ecosystem. Participants should dress for gardening and bring tools if possible. This is a wonderful opportunity to give back to the environment and the community while enjoying the natural beauty found at Amerson River Park.

> Amerson River Park: 2551 North Pierce Circle, Macon

Ranger Talk at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park (2 p.m.)

Discover the fascinating world of alligators with a Ranger Talk at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. This educational session in the outdoor classroom delves into the vital role these creatures play in the ecosystem. Although no live alligators will be present, guests will gain a deeper appreciation for these remarkable reptiles.

> Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park: 1207 Emery Highway, Macon

Ashley Sillay at The Society Garden (8 p.m.)

Enjoy an evening of soulful music with Ashley Sillay at The Society Garden. Born in Macon, Sillay blends Southern soul with classic country influences, delivering a performance that resonates with heartfelt emotion and nostalgia. Don’t miss this chance to hear a hometown talent perform live.

> The Society Garden: 2389 Ingleside Avenue, Macon

Comedy Night at Buffington’s in Milledgeville (9-11 p.m.)

Get ready to laugh out loud at Comedy Night at Buffington’s. Headlined by Joe Pettis with opening act Zo Sutton, this show promises an evening of sharp wit and hilarious humor. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $15 for VIP seating. Reserve your spot for a night of side-splitting fun.

> Buffington’s: 120 West Hancock Street, Milledgeville

Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) at the Booker T. Washington Center (6:30 p.m.)

Celebrate the principle of Ujima, the third principle from the seven principles of Kwanza, with a forum on collective work and responsibility at the Booker T. Washington Center. This free event includes a discussion on building generational and economic wealth in Black Macon, followed by refreshments and community engagement.

> Booker T. Washington Center: 391 Monroe Street, Macon

Blue at Billy’s Clubhouse (9:30 p.m.-1 a.m.)

Sing along to your favorite Emo and Pop Punk hits as Milledgeville band Blue performs live at Billy’s Clubhouse. With no cover charge, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a night of music and fun with friends.

> Billy Clubhouse: 1580 Forest Hill Road, Macon

ROAD TRIP: Tambor “New Year” Party at Future Atlanta (10 p.m.-3 a.m.)

Dance into the New Year at the Tambor “New Year” Party at Future Atlanta. Featuring Deep Afro House music, live musicians, and a welcoming atmosphere, this event is all about embracing the future. Dress in your most futuristic outfit and connect with a vibrant community as you celebrate the start of 2025. Tickets cost $25 and are available online at this link.

> Future Atlanta: 50 Lower Alabama Street, Atlanta

SUNDAY, December 29th

Dunlap Guided Ranger Talk at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park (2-2:30 p.m.)

Learn about the history of the land after the Muscogee (Creek) removal during the Dunlap Guided Ranger Talk at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. This engaging session includes a talk in the outdoor classroom followed by a short walk to the historic Dunlap house. It’s a great way to explore the hidden history of this iconic site.

> Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park: 1207 Emery Highway, Macon

Sunday Nite Jam Session at Grant's Lounge (9 p.m.)

Every Sunday night, Grant's Lounge invites musicians to get together for a Sunday Nite Jam Session. Middle Georgia has a lot of talent and attendees are likely to hear some impressive musicians perform at these weekly events. There is a $10 cover at the door for Sunday Nite Jam Sessions.

> Grant's Lounge: 576 Poplar Street, Macon