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

This week in Middle Georgia, you can experience world-class orchestral music in a historic opera house, explore the opulent Hay House after dark, run through wooded trails at a century-old Girl Scout camp, celebrate community diversity at Pride in the Park, enjoy city streets that will be transformed into a giant pedestrian playground, and much, much more. The following are just a few of the interesting, fun, and often free things to do this week in the heart of Georgia.

MONDAY, September 22nd

Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra at The Piedmont Grand Opera House (7:30 p.m.)

The Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra presents classical music for the modern age with an innovative hybrid model that combines rising stars from Mercer's McDuffie Center for Strings with professional mentors from the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. This unique approach makes world-class orchestral music more accessible to Middle Georgia audiences and proves invaluable mentorship opportunities for talented young musicians. Monday evening's program features guest conductor Joseph Young making his Macon-Mercer Symphony debut with a rousing lineup that includes Rossini's spirited Overture to La Gazza Ladra, Stravinsky's iconic Firebird Suite, and more. Tickets to this special orchestral event can be purchased online at this link.

    > The Piedmont Grand Opera House: 617 Mulberry Street, Macon

TUESDAY, September 23rd

In Conversation with Author John T. Edge at the Hay House (5:30 p.m.)

Hay House and Bear's Books present a Jordan Massee Lecture featuring acclaimed author John T. Edge in conversation with Georgia Public Broadcasting's Josephine Bennett this Tuesday at the one-and-only Hay House. Edge will discuss his recently released new memoir "House of Smoke," which chronicles his journey searching for home in a South that has both embraced and challenged him. Edge is the founding director of the Southern Foodways Alliance and an Emmy Award-winning host of TrueSouth on the SEC Network. His memoir takes readers from Georgia to Mississippi as he navigates the complex legacy of growing up in a house where history from the Confederate viewpoint was gospel. Attendees can choose from both event-only tickets ($10) as well as bundle packages ($30) that include a copy of the memoir.

    > Hay House: 934 Georgia Avenue, Macon

Graphic courtesy of the Hay House

WEDNESDAY, September 24th

Big Top Circus with the Zebrini Family Circus at the Jones County Lions Club (9/24-9/25) (6-7:30 p.m.)

The Zebrini Family Circus brings authentic circus magic to Middle Georgia with a 90-minute performance featuring the classic circus acts that delight both young and old. Early online specials are available at this link, though tickets can also be purchased at the entrance while seats last. This old-school circus experience offers a refreshing alternative to another evening of the same old digital entertainment, reminding audiences of the excitement to be found in live performance and exciting physical artistry.

    > Jones County Lions Club: 399 Highway 18 East, Gray

MUSIC: James McMurty at The Capitol Theatre (8 p.m.)

James McMurtry returns to Macon to play music from his eleventh album, "The Black Dog & the Wandering Boy," showcasing the storytelling mastery that has influenced a new generation of songwriters including Sarah Jarosz and Jason Isbell. McMurtry's latest work draws from deeply personal family history, including his father Larry McMurtry's experiences with dementia and hallucinations. His lyrics are richly drawn character studies set to arrangements that blend Americana elements with McMurty's signature wit and intelligence. Working with longtime producer Don Dixon and his trusted backing band - Cornbread on bass, Tim Holt on guitar, Daren Hess on drums, and BettySoo on backing vocals - McMurtry has created an album that deals with the themes of obsolescence, reality, and resilience. General admission tickets to see James McMurtry in concert cost $32.47 online at this link.

    > The Capitol Theatre: 382 Second Street, Macon

THURSDAY, September 25th

Lively Libations Social at Piedmont Brewery (4-6 p.m.)

Lively Libations Social is a popular event that returns to Piedmont Brewery every year during Macon Pride Week. Attendees toast to love and acceptance while trying out a brand new brew from Piedmont Brewery. This unique annual social event is free and open to the public.

    > Piedmont Brewery: 450 3rd Street, Macon

MUSIC: GABBAfest 2025 Opening Reception at Gallery West (4-7 p.m.)

GABBAfest 2025's first event will take place this Thursday with an opening reception at Kirk and Kristin West's Gallery West. Thursday's GABBAfest events will also include a meet and greet at Fresh Produce Records and a performance from Will Gore and Greg Kearney at Capricorn Records from 7 to 10 p.m. While all of Thursday's events will be free and open to the public, Allman Brother Band fans can purchase tickets for the many other events taking during the full weekend of the GABBAfest at this link.

    > Gallery West: 447 3rd Street, Macon

ART: Pop-Up Exhibit with Madeline Dukes at The 567 Center for Renewal (5-7 p.m.)

Madeline Dukes is a traveling artist hailing from South Carolina who will be presenting her art and giving an artist talk on Thursday evening. Dukes will also be hosting a 3-day painting workshop at The 567 Center for Renewal and you can find out more about that at this link. Her soothing artwork focuses on colorful landscapes and organic forms.      

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

An example of some of Dukes' impressive artwork (Image courtesy of The 567 Center for Renewal)

FOOD AND MUSIC: Brews & BBQ at Middle Georgia State University (5:30 p.m.)

The MGA Alumni Association kicks off the fall season with their annual Brews & BBQ celebration at Middle Georgia State University's lakeside Macon campus this Thursday. This free event, sponsored by John David "JD" Miller of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company, brings together MGA alumni, friends, and families for an evening of live music, barbecue, and community against the backdrop of spectacular lake views. Guests will get a chance to enjoy Fall Line Brewery beer and wine, s'mores around a fire pit, as well as have and opportunity to support the MGA Alumni Association scholarship fund. The event welcomes all alumni, friends of alumni, and children and, while admission is free, guests are asked to register in advance at this link.

    > Middle Georgia State University: 100 University Parkway, Macon

MUSIC: Stardew Valley: Symphony Of Seasons at the Macon City Auditorium (8 p.m.)

Video game music reaches symphonic heights as the soundtrack of Stardew Valley comes to life through orchestral arrangement at the Macon City Auditorium this Thursday. This concert features the indie farming simulation game's music as a concert hall presentation. Tickets to Stardew Valley: Symphony Of Seasons currently cost $43.53 this link.

    > Middle Georgia State University: 100 University Parkway, Macon

FRIDAY, September 26th

MUSIC: “Refrain from Incursion” at Indian Springs State Park (5 p.m.)

Indian Springs State Park transforms into an immersive fantasy world for "Refrain from Incursion," a weekend-long live action role-playing (LARP) event that combines storytelling, character development, and interactive adventure. This three-day experience at Group Camp McIntosh invites participants to step into an alternate reality where they face epic adventures, difficult choices, and new beginnings as the story's Aetherspire calls for heroes. Visit this website for additional details. The $80 registration fee for "Refrain from Incursion" includes lodging, meals, and park access. 

    > Indian Springs State Park: 678 Lake Clark Road, Flovilla

Graphic courtesy of Legynds:Apotheosis

Legends & Lore at the Hay House (7 p.m.)

Experience the Hay House's in a spine-tingling way during a Legends & Lore tour. This behind-the-scenes exploration of the historic mansion reveals reported unexplained phenomena, mysterious lights, and documented ghost sightings that make the Hay House one of Macon's most paranormal hotspots. The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with complimentary spirits (wine, beer, or soda) and ground floor exploration before the 90-minute guided tour begins promptly at 6 p.m. There are six chances to attend a Legends & Lore event: Friday, September 26th, Friday, October 3rd, Friday, October 10th, Friday, October 17th, Friday, October 24th, and Thursday, October 30th. Tickets to Legends & Lore cost $45 and can be purchased at this link.

    > Hay House: 934 Georgia Avenue, Macon

Macon Pride HAUS Party with Mistress and Daya from Drag Race at The Capitol Theatre (8-11 p.m.)

Macon Pride's annual drag extravaganza brings RuPaul's Drag Race royalty to Middle Georgia with headliners Mistress Isabelle Brooks and Daya Betty as well as local favorites for a night of entertainment. The HAUS Party showcases both national drag talent and Macon's vibrant local drag community, including performances by The Tribe Macon and Haus Of Vidalle, all hosted by Christina Leon. VIP ticket holders enjoy an exclusive 7 p.m. meet and greet with the headliners before general admission doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets to the HAUS Party start at $38.60 online at this link.

    > The Capitol Theatre: 382 Second Street, Macon

SATURDAY, September 27th

Into the Woods Trail Run at Girl Scout Camp Martha Johnston (8:30 a.m.)

Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia's annual Into The Woods Trail Run invites runners of all abilities to experience the natural beauty of Camp Martha Johnston's 165-acre property in Lizella. This trail run through leads through picturesque woods and winding paths and offers participants a chance to connect with nature while helping support Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia's programs for young girls. Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia welcomes businesses, families, military personnel, troops, and friend groups to participate. Registration for the Into the Woods Trail Run is available at this link. 

    > Girl Scout Camp Martha Johnston: 1908 Girl Scout Road, Lizella

Graphic courtesy of Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia

Master Gardeners of Central Georgia Plant Sale at the Macon State Farmers Market (9 a.m.-4 p.m.)

Local gardening enthusiasts can discover locally grown plants at exceptional prices during the Master Gardeners of Central Georgia plant sale on Saturday. This event supports MGCG's educational programs including classes, seed libraries, and teaching gardens that help Middle Georgia residents develop sustainable gardening practices. The sale is open to the public and offers both seasoned gardeners and beginners the chance to acquire quality plants while supporting agricultural education and community beautification efforts. 

    > Macon State Farmers Market: 2055 Eisenhower Parkway, Macon

Dickey Farms 2025 Fall Festival (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)

Dickey Farms celebrates the fall season with their annual Fall Festival this Saturday featuring corn mazes, pumpkin patches, hayrides, local vendors, food trucks, live music, and children's activities including bounce houses. This agricultural festival combines educational opportunities about farming with family entertainment, offering visitors a chance to experience agricultural life firsthand. Events like this help preserve farming culture while creating lasting memories for families seeking alternatives to urban entertainment. For more information about Dickey Farms 2025 Fall Festival, please call 478-836-4362 or email info@dickeyfarms.com.

    > Dickey Farms: 3440 Musella Road, Macon

Historic Macon Cemetery Tour: Allman Brothers Sites at Rose Hill Cemetery (9/27-9/28) (10-11:30 a.m.)

Local historians Kathleen O'Neal and Liz Riley lead a special walking tour of Rose Hill Cemetery focusing on sites made famous by the Allman Brothers Band this weekend, timed to coincide with GABBAFEST celebrations. This tour demonstrates how Rose Hill Cemetery serves as not only a burial ground but also a living testament to Macon's cultural history as the final resting place for members of one of rock music's most influential bands. Check-in for the tour begins at 9:30 a.m. at the front gate, with special discounts available for Historic Macon Foundation members (email membership@historicmacon.org to get your discount code). Tickets to this Historic Macon Cemetery Tour can be purchased online at this link.

    > Rose Hill Cemetery: 1091 Riverside Drive, Macon

Graphic courtesy of the Historic Macon Foundation

Macon Pride Week Pride in the Park in Third Street Park (2-8 p.m.)

Third Street Park transforms into a celebration of diversity and community with Pride in the Park this Saturday. Live entertainment will take place on the Tangerine Summers Memorial Stage including music from DJ B3 and drag performances, which begin at 4 p.m. The festival includes local vendors offering unique finds, free yoga sessions courtesy of Sparks Yoga, art installations, and a dedicated kids zone for family-friendly activities. Brand new sensory sanctuaries at The Bohemian Den and Hello Boba Cafe provide quiet spaces for those needing a recharge during the festivities. This annual Macon Pride Week event is free and open to the public.

    > Third Street Park: 456 Oglethorpe Street, Macon

COMEDY: John Crist: Jokes for Humans at the Macon City Auditorium (7 p.m.)

John Crist will bring his "Jokes for Humans" tour to the Macon City Auditorium this Saturday. Crist's latest material builds on the success of previous specials including "What Are We Doing?" which garnered more than 100 million views across platforms. Tickets to see John Crist perform currently start at $41.55 on ticketmaster.com.

    > Macon City Auditorium: 415 1st Street, Macon

Macon Pride Week Afterparty at JBA (9 p.m.)

JBA will host the official Macon Pride Week Afterparty late into the night this Saturday. Entertainment from the evening will include LaLa Ri from Drag Race as well as Akasha Giselle Vidalle, Christina Leon, Coco Iman Starr, Hazel Moon, Valtorin Dynasty, and Yutoya Avazé Leon. The talented DJ B3 will be on hand to spin just the right music to keep the crowd dancing.

    > JBA: 425 Cherry Street, Macon

SUNDAY, September 28th

Open Streets Macon: Pleasant Hill to Beall’s Hill (2-6 p.m.)

Monroe Street, Tattnall Street, and Oglethorpe Street transform into a giant paved park as Open Streets Macon invites Middle Georgia to joing the global Open Streets movement. The Open Streets movement temporarily closes roads to motorized traffic so residents can experience their city streets as public space. Open Streets Macon is a free, car-free celebration brings people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds together to walk, skate, bike, play, and reimagine urban public spaces. 

    > Monroe Street, Tattnall Street, and Oglethorpe Street, Macon

Graphic courtesy of Open Streets Macon

Macon Pride Interfaith Worship and Family Picnic at Coleman Hill Park (4-6 p.m.)

Macon Pride Week concludes on Sunday with an interfaith service and family picnic that brings together community members for reflection, unity, and celebration in Downtown Macon's Coleman Hill park. The multi-faith service is followed by a family-friendly picnic featuring food trucks, music, games, and fellowship. The Macon Pride Interfaith Worship and Family Picnic is free and open to the public.

    > Coleman Hill Park: 285 Spring Street, Macon

MUSIC: 26th Annual Rhythm N Jazz Concert Series in Tattnall Square Park (6-9 p.m.)

The longest-running concert series in Middle Georgia history continues its 26th season with an evening of rhythm and jazz from Blue Print Productions with Kenny Pratt and Revue at Tattnall Square Park this Sunday evening. Since beginning as Rhythm N Jazz on the Dock at Gateway Park in 1999, this free, age-friendly concert series has become a Macon tradition that brings the community together for outdoor music in a beautiful park setting. The Rhythm N Jazz Concert Series is co-hosted by Steve Duval of the Stevie Show and supported by NewTown, MaconBibb, Age Friendly (AARP), HoodFessional, and DJPHI. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and friends for an evening that celebrates both music and Middle Georgia's spirit of togetherness.

    > Tattnall Square Park: 1263 College Street, Macon

Did we miss an event you are excited about? Leave a comment below to let others know about other fun and interesting events taking place this week in Middle Georgia.