8-18-2025 10:01am

Adventures in the Heart of Georgia: Things to Do this Week in Macon and Greater Middle Georgia

Nate Weeks Editor

Macon Magazine celebrated the latest inductees in the magazine's Five under 40 on Tuesday night at Grant's Lounge (Photographer Nate Weeks)

From the big screen to the concert stage, Middle Georgia residents have an exceptional array of cultural experiences to enjoy this week. The 20th Annual Macon Film Festival takes center stage starting Wednesday with thought-provoking documentaries, short films, cutting-edge immersive screenings, and more. Additionally, music venues across the region will host an eclectic mix of live performances ranging from country and 90s rock tributes to local hip-hop and psychedelic-inspired rock. Whether you're seeking free outdoor entertainment, intimate venue experiences, or educational discussions about emerging therapies, this week's programming demonstrates the vibrant cultural landscape in the heart of Georgia.

MONDAY, August 18th

Cauldron Mug Class at The 567 Center for Renewal (6:30-8:30 p.m.)

Learn to craft your own cauldron-shaped mug complete with decorative feet during this hands-on pottery experience. Instructor Heatherly Day will guide participants through this beginner-friendly two-week class that continues next Monday (August 25th) as well. The Cauldron Mug Class costs $70 for non-members of The 567 and $55 for members and is for creatives 16 and older.

> The 567 Center for Renewal: 456 1st Street, Macon

TUESDAY, August 19th

Tot Tuesday at Rigby’s Water World (9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.)

Little ones three and under can splash and play in Little Surfer's Cove during this weekly summer program at Rigby’s Water World. Every Tuesday in August Rigby’s hosts this special toddler-friendly session that includes drinks and snacks for participants. Tickets cost $10 per person with both children and parents requiring admission, though children under one year old attend free.

> Rigby’s Water World: 2001 Karl Drive, Warner Robins

YOGA: Aerial Vin to Yin Flow for Manifestation at Wellness Hug (7-8:15 p.m.)

Experience a unique 75-minute yoga journey that combines meditation, aerial vinyasa flow in silk hammocks, and a relaxing final Savasana at Wellness Hug on Tuesday. Yoga instructor Amber Pierce leads this beginner-friendly class every Tuesday, leading students through a yoga class using aerial silk to deepen stretches and enhance the yoga practice. Classes cost $20 and can be booked online at this link.

> Wellness Hug: 476 3rd Street, Suite 2, Macon

WEDNESDAY, August 20th

Adaptive Aquatics at Rigby’s Water World (9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.)

This specially designed aquatic program at Rigby’s Water World welcomes children and adults with special needs for therapeutic water activities. Participants can enjoy accessible fun across multiple pool areas, including Hideaway Falls Pool, Little Surfer's Cove, the Entry Fountain, and the Lower Levels of Paradise Island. Tickets cost $10 per person while personal care attendants attend free. Reservations for Adaptive Aquatics can be made online at this link, by calling (478) 287-6701, or at the gate.

> Rigby’s Water World: 2001 Karl Drive, Warner Robins

MOVIES: Community Screening of “Macon Playgrounds More Accessible: Crip Camp” at The Douglass Theatre for the 20th Annual Macon Film Festival (6:15-8:30 p.m.)

Join the 20th Annual Macon Film Festival as it kicks off on Wednesday with a free community screening exploring playground accessibility for differently-abled children. This special presentation is part of Knight Emerging City Champion's micro-grant project led by Jonathan Wetherbee, who investigated the needs and areas of accessibility improvement for Bibb County’s playgrounds. The evening is completely free and includes a question-and-answer session with accessibility expert Natalie McKay of Unlimited Play

> The Douglass Theatre: 355 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Macon

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THURSDAY, August 21st

MOVIES: FireStarters Film Festival Showcase “Tiger/Remaining Native” at The Douglass Theatre (7:15-10 p.m.)

Experience indigenous storytelling through documentary films "Tiger" and "Remaining Native" with special guests Dana Tiger and Delmar Stevens at the FireStarters Film Festival Showcase on Thursday. Following the screening, an exclusive afterparty at McEachern Art Center celebrates the "Ocmulgee to Okmulgee" art exhibition featuring works by indigenous artists Dan Beaver, Carly Treece, and Amanda Rutland. The afterparty requires an all-access pass and is restricted to audiences 21 and up. Purchase tickets for the 2025 Macon Film Festival online at this link.

> The Douglass Theatre: 355 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Macon

FRIDAY, August 22nd

Macon Area Connections: Mingle with Singles at The Overlook on First (6-8 p.m.)

The Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce hosts an evening of icebreaker games, giveaways, and socializing with two complimentary drink tickets included at Mingle with Singles on Friday. Participants wear different colored wristbands to indicate their relationship status, making it easy to connect with like-minded singles. Register for the latest Macon Area Connections for $20 online at this link: note that this event is restricted for those age 21 and up.

> The Overlook on First: 484 1st Street, Macon

MUSIC: Gordon Grooves - The Grapevine Band at Gordon State College (7-9 p.m.)

Georgia's favorite party band brings their signature funk, soul, and groove music to Gordon’s outdoor amphitheater this Friday evening. The Grapevine Band has built a reputation for high-energy performances that keep audiences dancing throughout their sets. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets for this free, family-friendly concert event.

> Gordon State College: 419 College Drive, Barnesville

MOVIES: Fulldome Film Festival Immersive Showcase at the Museum of Arts and Science (7:30-10 p.m.)

Explore art galleries, experience the museum's gyroscope, and watch immersive films projected onto the planetarium's domed ceiling during the Fulldome Film Festival Immersive Showcase this Friday night. The showcase is part of the Macon Film Festival and combines multiple sensory experiences with food, drinks, and cutting-edge filmmaking technology that surrounds viewers in a 360-degree visual environment. An all-access pass or museum membership is required for attendance. You can purchase tickets to the Macon Film Festival online at this link.

> Museum of Arts and Sciences.: 4182 Forsyth Road, Macon

MUSIC: Brian Kelley at The Capitol Theatre (8 p.m.)

Country music fans can catch Brian Kelley, one-half of the popular Nashville duo Florida Georgia Line, performing solo material. Kelley has carved out his own musical identity while maintaining the signature sound that made Florida Georgia Line a chart-topping success. Tickets for this show start at $38.14 online at this link

> The Capitol Theatre: 382 2nd Street, Macon

MUSIC: Rock the 90’s: A Tribute to the Golden Decade of Rock at The Society Garden (8 p.m.)

Relive the alternative rock era with tribute performances featuring music from Foo Fighters, Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, Coolio, and other iconic 90s artists. This Middle Georgia-based tribute band has dedicated countless hours to perfecting the hits that defined a generation of music lovers. Tickets to see Rock the 90’s perform on Friday cost $20 online at this link or at the gate.

> The Society Garden: 2389 Ingleside Avenue, Macon

MUSIC: Ashes at The Hummingbird (9:30 p.m.-1 a.m.)

Local rock band Ashes delivers psychedelic-inspired rock and roll in an intimate venue setting. This Macon-based group brings a unique sound that blends classic rock influences with modern psychedelic elements. There will be $5 cover charge at the door for this show.

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

SATURDAY, August 23rd

YOGA: Yoga + Art: Summer Slow Down at Artspace Macon (10 a.m.)

Combine mindful movement with creative expression through art journaling and yoga instruction led by Laura Sugg. This unique workshop encourages participants to slow down and reconnect with their creative side while practicing gentle yoga poses. The $35 fee includes all art supplies and a personal art journal to take home, though participants should bring their own yoga mat. Tickets for Yoga + Art can be purchased online at this link

> Artspace Macon: 2378 Ingleside Avenue, Macon

C-130 Day Celebration at the Museum of Aviation (10 a.m.-2 p.m.)

Commemorate the anniversary of the C-130 Hercules aircraft's first flight with hands-on activities and special guests at the Museum of Aviation this Saturday. This interactive celebration highlights the aircraft's continuing importance in military and civilian aviation missions worldwide. This family-friendly event is completely free and open to all aviation enthusiasts of all ages.

> Museum of Aviation: 1942 Heritage Boulevard, Warner Robins

SHOPPING: Macon Vintage Market (11 a.m.-5 p.m.)

Browse unique vintage clothing and accessories from 20 vendors at the Lofts of Mercer Landing, representing the best of vintage fashion at the Lofts of Mercer Landing on Saturday. The market features live acoustic music from duo "The Locals" while shoppers explore carefully curated men's and women's vintage pieces. There is no cover charge for this shopping event.

> Lofts at Mercer Landing: 1500 Mercer University Drive, Macon

Rug Tufting at Wanna Tuft Studios (12:30 p.m.)

Try a brand new activity in Downtown Macon by creating custom rug art using professional tufting guns at Middle Georgia's first themed tufting studio. This hands-on experience requires no previous crafting experience and includes all necessary supplies for participants to design their own unique masterpieces. This unique workshop welcomes ages 11 and up, with pricing and scheduling available through Wanna Tuft Studios’ website.

> Wanna Tuft Studios: 1080 3rd Street, Macon

ROAD TRIP: The Cabinet of Curiosities at The Winery at Moon Light Manor (3-9 p.m.)

Step into a world of mystery and wonder featuring oddity artists Andréa Hurley of Bones N Boujee and Bee Mayo of Petrichor Art & Oddities at The Cabinet of Curiosities on Saturday. This unique evening celebrates the strange and curious through artfully macabre displays and extraordinary vendor offerings. Further details about this event will be released soon, according to the organizer.

> The Winery at Moon Light Manor: 373 Cook Road, Macon

Hands for Hearts 2nd Annual Community Care Day at Central City Park (3 p.m.)

Support homeless and less fortunate families through this charitable distribution of clothing, shoes, toiletries, and other essential items at Macon’s Central City Park on Saturday afternoon. This grassroots community effort brings neighbors together to provide direct assistance to those in need. Community Care Day is free to attend.

> Central City Park: 150 Willie Smokie Glover Drive, Macon

MUSIC: Demun Jones Album Release Party at The Society Garden (8 p.m.)

Celebrate the latest release from Jones County-based rapper and singer-songwriter Demun Jones. This musician has accumulated over 1 billion streams and 400 million YouTube views across his eight-album career. Jones blends hip-hop fundamentals with rustic instrumentals and exceptional lyricism that reflects his Middle Georgia roots. VIP ticket options include $100 meet-and-greet packages and $500 reserved stadium seating for eight guests. General admission tickets to this musical event cost $25 online at this link.

> The Society Garden: 2389 Ingleside Avenue, Macon

Puppets & Poppycock - A Feral Fever Production at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6605 (6:30-10:30 p.m.)

Experience an anarchic blend of Muppets-style absurdity and Monty Python-inspired chaos in this dinner theater celebrating Anita Boner's 40th birthday. The evening combines live music, dancing, and tapas-style dining with dietary restriction accommodations in what promises to be an unhinged theatrical experience. Tickets to Puppets & Poppycock start at $25 on eventbrite.com.

> Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6605: 1011 Corder Road, Warner Robins

MUSIC: Sugar Virus 33rd Anniversary Show with Dragon Sleeper, Megalaplat, Low Frequency Messiah, Sister Sandoz,and Bible Belt Massacre at The Capitol Theatre (7-11 p.m.)

Local metal legends Sugar Virus host an evening of heavy metal music featuring Dragon Sleeper, Megalaplat, Low Frequency Messiah, Sister Sandoz, and Bible Belt Massacre this Saturday. The celebration includes pre-release vinyl and CD sales by Sugar Virus alongside powerful live performances from the local metal scene. Tickets for this all-ages show cost $26.55 online at this link.

> The Capitol Theatre: 382 2nd Street, Macon

MOVIES: Screening of “40 Acres” at The Douglass Theatre (7:15-10 p.m.)

The Macon Film Festival continues on Saturday and includes a screening of “40 Acres,” a post-apocalyptic thriller film from director R.T. Thorne. You can purchase tickets to the Macon Film Festival online at this link.

> The Douglass Theatre: 355 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., Macon

VIEWER DISCRETION (VIOLENCE): The dramatic trailer for "40 Acres" was released earlier this year

SUNDAY, August 24th

The Healing Trip - A Community Conversation about Psychedelic Therapy at The Society Garden (12 p.m.)

Explore the emerging field of psychedelic therapy through a panel discussion led by Dr. Courtney Stavely of Middle Georgia State University alongside Dr. Roman Palitsky and Dr. Deanna Kaplan from Emory University's Center for Psychedelics and Spirituality. The educational panel will discuss how substances like psilocybin, MDMA, and ayahuasca are being researched for treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, and trauma. The Healing Trip is recommended for audience members 21 and up due to the discussion of mature subject matter. Admission to this special event costs $5 online at this link or at the gate.

> The Society Garden: 2380 Ingleside Avenue, Macon

SHOPPING: Fall Line Brewing Co.’s Clothing Exchange (2 p.m.)

Participate in sustainable fashion by swapping gently used clothing items for new-to-you wardrobe pieces during this eco-friendly community event on Sunday. Participants earn "Swap Dollars" by bringing donations between July 22nd and August 22nd, which can then be used to shop the exchange, with additional items available for just $1 each. The Clothing Exchange also will feature a popup shop from The Vintage Thread, with remaining items donated to the Brookdale Resource Center. This family-friendly event welcomes all ages and is free to attend.

> Fall Line Brewing Co.: 567 Plum Street, Macon