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

Love is in the air as Middle Georgians celebrate Valentine's Day a little early with a weekend full of art, music, and community connections. Downtown Macon's First Friday will feature a romantic lineup of events, including an art crawl at many galleries opening new exhibits, date-night specials at local restaurants, and Valentine-themed cocktails at drinking establishments. Whether you are celebrating with your sweetheart, your galentines, or with family or friends, this weekend offers many ways to show your love. The following are just a few of the creative, fun, and often free things to do this weekend in the heart of Georgia.

FRIDAY, February 6th

  >> First Friday Art Crawl in Downtown Macon (4-9 p.m.)

Downtown Macon's art scene comes alive during the First Friday Art Crawl, featuring seven gallery openings this Friday showcasing diverse artistic visions of Middle Georgia. Art enthusiasts can explore multimedia works from Mary-Frances Burt at Macon Arts Alliance's "Poured Out" exhibition (4 to 7 p.m.), celebrate creativity at The 567 Center for Renewal's beloved annual "Pink Poodle Parade" featuring imaginatively painted poodles and artwork from talented local artists, and witness the powerful "Echoes of Resilience" exhibition at Wesleyan Leadership Lab (5 to 8 p.m.), which explores Black and brown identities through photography and mixed media shaped by memory, migration, and cultural reclamation. Gallery West marks 11 years in business with an anniversary celebration featuring Kirk West's photography alongside artwork from nine other artists, complete with live music and refreshments (5 to 9 p.m.). Sheridan Studios embraces the Valentine's Day spirit with pop-up vendors offering florals, sweet treats, and a complimentary Valentine's cocktail (5 to 8 p.m.). McEachern Art Center presents Brittany Coburn's "Guilty Pleasures," exploring the comforts and coping mechanisms we carry through life's complexities (6 to 8 p.m. for mature audiences), and The Bohemian Den showcases artist Queso's artwork, while The Basement Club performs live music throughout the evening.

    > Varies Locations in Downtown Macon

  >> February First Friday in Downtown Macon (5-11:45 p.m.)

First Friday in Macon is always a celebration of life, with special events and special deals for visitors to enjoy, including the following:

 - Love birds can enjoy date night specials this Friday at Just Tap'd ($20 charcuterie and beer deal), Longleaf Distillery ($30 combo with homemade tomato soup and grilled cheese with 2 cocktails), and Switch Macon, which is decorated to the nines for Valentine's Day, is a perfect place to make some romance happen. 

 - Live music will help set the mood with Zach Butler performing at both Bear's Books and Rabbit Hole between 5 and 8 p.m., and The Basement Club putting on a show at The Bohemian Den from 6 to 8 p.m., as part of Bragg Jam's Soul Spots. Finally, Hotel Forty Five's patio will be filled with the lovely sounds of live music from 7 to 9 p.m.

- Buy some sweet treats for your sweetie at Shuster's Candy and Creamery with their "Eat Your Heart Out Specials," or show your love with Sweet Eleanor's chocolate-covered strawberries and strawberry shortcake frappes.

- The Rose Rome will celebrate alongside Macon Magazine for the magazine's Food Edition launch party, which will include a guest florist offering wrapped bouquets.

- The Bibb Theatre was a movie theater from 1938 to 1978, but has been empty since then. Visitors to Downtown Macon will get a chance to see the inside of the historic building before construction begins inside the NewTown Macon-owned building. The first floor will soon be home to Visit Macon's The Creek 100.9 and Rock Candy Tours, a gift shop, and a conference room. 10 residential lofts will fill the second floor. NewTown Macon will allow the curious to walk through the Bibb Theatre from 5 to 7 p.m.

The Bibb Theatre's marquee was lit during a special ceremony in October 2023 (Photographer Nate Weeks)

    > Various Locations in Downtown Macon

  >> MUSIC: Jimmy L. Mills Jr. Heritage Concert at the Douglass Theatre (6 p.m.)

The Douglass Theatre will host the annual Jimmy L. Mills Jr. Heritage Concert on Friday, celebrating the legacy of African American composers with energetic choral performances. Four local high school choirs (Central, Howard, Northeast, and Rutland) will entertain attendees. The Fort Valley State University Choir, led by Alicia Carner-McDonald, will also give a special performance during this special event. The Jimmy L. Mills Jr. Heritage Concert is free to attend.

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

  >> HEALTH: First Friday Xtreme Hip Hop Step Aerobics with Marquita (6:30 p.m.)

Xtreme Hip Hop Step Aerobics is an energetic, but beginner-friendly class at Downtown Macon's Wellness Hug, which offers the first class for free. Online reviews for this class rave about Marquita's classes. Register for the Xtreme Hip Hop Step Aerobics online at this link.

    > Wellness Hug: 476 Third Street, Suite 2, Macon

  >> HOCKEY: Olympics Night as the Macon Mayhem vs. Evansville Thunderbolts Game in the Macon Coliseum (7 p.m.)

The Macon Mayhem brings Olympic spirit to the ice this Friday as they face the Evansville Thunderbolts on Olympics Night at the Macon Coliseum. Fans are encouraged to represent their country's colors and cheer on their favorite team as the spirit of international competition energizes the arena. The exciting matchup provides family-friendly entertainment with doors opening at 6 p.m. and puck drop at 7 p.m., and the teams face off again Saturday for Superhero Night, offering two consecutive evenings of thrilling hockey action. Tickets for either game start at $17.35 online at this link.

    > Macon Coliseum: 200 Coliseum Drive, Macon

Graphic courtesy of the Macon Mayhem

  >> MUSIC: Collectively: All About Collaborative Piano in Fickling Hall (7:30 p.m.)

This Friday evening, the Townsend School of Music presents "All About Collaborative Piano," continuing Kyung-A Yoo's Collectively Collaborative Piano Series with an evening of masterworks by Mozart, Schubert, Strauss, Myaskovsky, and Dukas. Students and faculty from the Collaborative Piano studios showcase the art of musical partnership through performances demonstrating the skill and artistry required when multiple musicians create music together. The Joan Stockstill Godsey Concert Series presentation features eight talented performers including Aaron Henderson, Cameron Wood, Cynthia Smith, Richard Kosowski, Seth Watson, Benjamin Gilbert, Nicole Ying, and Timothy McReynolds in this free community concert celebrating collaborative artistry. This concert is free and open to the public.

    > McCorkle Music Building’s Fickling Hall: 1433 Adams Street, Macon

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

The Hummingbird celebrates First Friday with local rock band Ashes delivering an evening of rock n' roll energy. The popular Middle Georgia band brings its dynamic sound to the stage for a night of high-energy performance starting at 9:30 p.m. It's the perfect way to cap off First Friday festivities with live music, cold drinks, and the party atmosphere that makes The Hummingbird a downtown favorite. The Hummingbird charges a $5 cover for entry.

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

SATURDAY, February 7th

  >> HEALTH: Healthy Heart Walk to the Great Temple Mound at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park (9:30 a.m.)

Piedmont Macon and Bike Walk Macon join forces to celebrate American Heart Month with a Healthy Heart Walk combining health education and scenic exercise. The morning begins at 9:30 a.m. with free blood pressure checks and heart health conversations led by Piedmont Macon Residents, empowering participants with knowledge about cardiovascular wellness. At 9:45 a.m., Bike Walk Macon guides a beautiful three-mile walk from the hospital through the new Bicentennial Park to the historic Great Temple Mound at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, connecting health, history, and community in one uplifting experience. Participants should bring water and wear comfortable walking shoes for this free event.

    > Piedmont Macon Medical Center, Building D: 707 Piedmont Avenue, Macon

  >> “Healthcare for Both Ends of the Leash” One Health Clinic (10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.)

The "Healthcare for Both Ends of the Leash" One Health Clinic recognizes that family wellness includes every member—whether they walk on two legs or four. This free clinic provides veterinary wellness checks, vaccinations, and microchips for cats and dogs while also offering healthcare screenings for people. Pet owners can also schedule affordable future spay or neuter appointments ($25 for cats/$35 for dogs), making responsible pet ownership accessible to all families. The One Health Clinic is free to attend with complimentary services for both pets and the people they love.

    > Houston County Health Department: 98 Cohen Walker Drive, Warner Robins

  >> Middle GA Lit Fest at the North Houston Sports Complex (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)

Middle GA Lit Fest returns to Warner Robins on Saturday with an inspiring celebration of "Stories That Carry Us," bringing hundreds of authors, vendors, and book lovers together for a free, family-friendly literary conference. According to organizers, this event offers the energy of "a Scholastic Book Fair on steroids" with free classes and workshops for readers, writers, and families, live podcasts, panels, meet-and-greets, giveaways, book signings, and exclusive merchandise throughout the day. Food trucks and family activities ensure entertainment for all ages while celebrating one of the South's premier literary gatherings. The Middle GA Lit Fest is free and open to the public.

    > North Houston Sports Complex: 900 North Houston Road, Warner Robins

  >> Valentine’s Party with Charlie Horse (11 a.m-2 p.m.)

Charlie Horse hosts a unique Valentine's Party combining horse-related fun with creative activities designed for families this Saturday. The three-hour celebration features a charming horsey kissing booth, a refreshing lemonade stand, and DIY stations where children can craft valentine cards and cootie catchers. Pony rides add extra excitement to this heartwarming event that celebrates both Valentine's Day and the special bond between children and horses in a welcoming farm setting. Entry to the Valentine's Party with Charlie Horse cost $15 per vehicle, while pony rides are available for $5.

    > Charlie Horse: 3580 Valley Drive, Perry

  >> 5th Annual Macon Chili Showdown at The Society Garden (1 p.m.)

The Society Garden's 5th Annual Macon Chili Showdown invites both competitors and judges for an afternoon of delicious rivalry and live music. Home cooks and chili enthusiasts can enter the competition by emailing The Society Garden at societygardenmacon@gmail.com with their team name and chili type, then arriving with a crockpot of their best recipe ready to serve. The Society Garden will provide tables, tasting cups, and event supplies while participants bring their secret recipes and garnishes for judging at 1 p.m. and People's Choice tallying at 3 p.m. For just $10, attendees receive a tasting card to sample all competing chilis while enjoying live music throughout the three-hour celebration of this beloved comfort food. The 5th Annual Macon Chili Showdown is free to attend, with a $10 tasting card to try the chilis.

    > The Society Garden: 2389 Ingleside Avenue, Macon

Graphic courtesy of The Society Garden

  >> Galentine’s Day with Jarvis Willis (3-5:30 p.m.)

Skilled floral designer Jarvis Willis invites guests to a unique Galentine's Day experience on Saturday that combines creativity, friendship, and beautiful blooms. According to organizers, this fun, hands-on floral design class encourages participants to gather their best friends for an afternoon of designing, sipping complimentary drinks, laughing, and creating something beautiful together. Attendees will leave with both a stunning floral creation and enjoyable memories. Limited spots are available. Tickets to Galentine's Day with Jarvis Willis cost $200 at this link.

    > 524 Mulberry Street, Macon

  >> SHOPPING: The Macon Market at stARTup Studios (2/7-2/8) (11 a.m.-4 p.m.)

The Macon Market is back and will once again transform stARTup Studios into a vibrant, climate-controlled marketplace celebrating creativity and community on the first weekend of every month. Patrons will find curated vendor booths offering one-of-a-kind treasures ranging from handmade art and boutique clothing to vintage collectibles, jewelry, skincare products, home décor, and seasonal plants, all from local makers and small business owners. The Macon Market will also be open on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vendors can apply to take part in March's Macon Market at this link. The Macon Market is free to visit.

    > stARTup Studios: 1055 Riverside Drive, Macon

  >> Hearts of Gold Benefit at St. Joseph Catholic School (5-8 p.m.)

This Saturday, the Kolbe Center hosts the Hearts of Gold Benefit, an auction event featuring quality prizes including a one-carat diamond pendant, an Apple iPad, a kayak, and a stay at beautiful Folly Beach, South Carolina, plus surprises, at St. Joseph Catholic School. The Hearts of Gold Benefit combines silent auction baskets, raffle items, and heavy hors d'oeuvres for an evening of community support and celebration. According to organizers, the enthusiasm is palpable as they invite the community to enjoy wonderful food, competitive bidding, and the joy of supporting Catholic education in Middle Georgia. Tickets for the Hearts of Gold Benefit cost $40+

    > St. Joseph's Catholic School Gymnasium: 830 Poplar Street, Macon

  >> MUSIC: Love Is All You Need: Macon Pops Annual Fundraiser at Fall Line Station (6:30 p.m.)

Macon Pops invites the community to "Love Is All You Need," their annual fundraiser celebrating the groovy spirit of the 1960s at Fall Line Station this Saturday evening. Attendees should expect timeless tunes performed live by Macon Pops, delicious bites, two free drink tickets per guest, glowing lights, and a dance floor welcoming everyone, "whether you're a flower child or just here for the fun." Signature cocktails, wine, and beer are available for purchase throughout the evening, while easy, free onsite parking ensures stress-free arrival. This festive fundraiser supports Macon Pops' mission of bringing beautiful music to Middle Georgia, combining good vibes, community connection, and the joy of dancing for a great cause. Tickets to Love Is All You Need cost $150 per person (or $1,500 for a table of 10).

    > Fall Line Station: 567 Plum Street, Macon

  >> MUSIC: Age of Aquarius Rave Hosted by Lunar Lighthouse at T & Jay’s Bar (9 p.m.)

Lunar Lighthouse hosts Court of Miracles' Age of Aquarius Rave on Saturday night, celebrating the Water Bearer's spirit of innovation, vision, and community. The free celebration of those born under the sign of Aquarius features open decks inviting DJs to spin, sets by Lunar Lighthouse, karaoke in the Aquarius Lounge, flow space, and a bright and inviting bonfire. Whether you're an Aquarius or simply appreciate the sign's innovative, community-minded energy, this eclectic gathering welcomes all to celebrate creativity and connection. Age of Aquarius Rave is free to attend.

    > T and Jay’s Bar: 6371 Zebulon Road, Macon

SUNDAY, February 8th

  >> SHOPPING: Fall Line’s Valentine Market (1-5 p.m.)

Fall Line Brewing Co. hosts a delightful Valentine's Market on Sunday where visitors can "fall head over heels" while browsing Middle Georgia's best local vendors and checking everyone off their Valentine's list. The four-hour celebration features a make-your-own flower bouquet and chocolate bar station, Valentine's candles, handmade cards, permanent jewelry, vintage clothing, baked goods, jams, jellies, and much more from talented local makers. Fall Line's Valentine Market is free to attend.

    > Fall Line Brewing Co.: 565 2nd Street Lane, Macon

  >> MOVIES: Macon Film Guild’s Screening of “Skategoat” at The Douglass Theatre (2, 5 p.m.)

Macon Film Guild presents "Skategoat," a powerful documentary following Leandre Sanders' decade-long journey from the gang-filled streets of Venice Beach to skateboarding fame. Director Van Alpert discovered the talented 11-year-old nicknamed "Skategoat" at Venice Beach skatepark and spent ten years documenting his struggle to perfect his craft while surviving a challenging environment where his older brothers followed the family tradition of gang involvement. Two screening times accommodate different schedules, with closed captions available (if provided) at the 2 p.m. showing, ensuring accessibility for all who want to experience this inspiring story of determination, talent, and hope. Macon Film Guild's screening of "Skategoat" cost $5 (or $4 for The Douglas Theatre members).

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

Leandre Sanders has impressed and inspired many with his positivity and love of skateboarding

  >> FOOTBALL: The Big Game Watch Party at The Social Duck/Bearfoot Tavern (5:30-11 p.m.)

Bearfoot Tavern and The Social Duck join forces for the ultimate Big Game watch party on Saturday, offering football fans the use of the internal doors between the businesses to bounce between the classic tavern atmosphere and high-energy bowling lanes. Wall-to-wall big screens ensure perfect viewing from every angle. Bearfoot Pizzas can be delivered directly to your bowling lane for the ultimate convenience. Game day bundles include a $60 Pizza, Wing, and Beer Bundle (one large specialty pizza, 20 jumbo wings, and five domestic beers), the "Strike" Wing Bucket ($24.99 for 20 wings), the Touchdown Pizza Deal ($24 for two large one-topping pizzas), and domestic beer buckets ($18 for five bottles). This Super Bowl watching event is free to attend.

    > The Social Duck: 476 2nd Street, Macon

  >> FOOTBALL: Super Bowl Party at Envision Events (5:30 p.m.)

Envision Events will host a Super Bowl Sunday party where the game will be on the big screen and DJ Ville Beats will provide an energetic vibe before kickoff. Sweet Sips by Semaj will serve drinks throughout the celebration. According to organizers, fans should bring their crew, wear their team colors, and get ready to cheer. The $30 ticket includes entry, food, and one drink ticket.

    > Envision Events: 719 SR-96 W. Suite 500, Bonaire

NOTABLE EVENTS NEXT WEEK:

 - Friday, 7 p.m. - The Black Hearts Ball: An Anti-Valentine's Day Assembly - This unique event for the “unromantic, the heartbroken, [and] the complicated” will include Collaboration Speed Dating, Emo and Singles Karaoke, and more.

Graphic courtesy of The Belltower

 - Saturday, 5 p.m.- 9 p.m. - Valentine's Dinner for Two at Her Majesty, Inc. - Her Majesty, Inc. will present an elegant Valentine's Dinner for Two featuring a plated three-course meal paired with complimentary champagne next Saturday, with 90-minute reservation windows at 5 p.m., 7 p.m., and 9 p.m.

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.