Schedule: Cherry Blossom Festival 2013 | Arts & Culture

FRIDAY, MARCH 15

Opening Ceremony and Ribbon Cutting
Celebrate the opening of the 2013 Festival alongside International, State and Local Dignitaries.

Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

Friday, March 15 at 12:00 noon; Free admission

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

Free Nightly Concert Presented by State Bank & Trust

"The King Lives" - Elvis Tribute - 8:00pm - 11:00pm
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

Ocmulgee Latern Light Tours Presented by ONMA

See the Ocmulgee National Monument under the stars. Grab a latern and walk to the Great Temple Mount on your own or join a Ranger for a guided tour.

7:30pm - 9:30pm; Tours every 30 minutes
$5.00 ages 13+; 478-752-8257

Cherry Blossom Gala Presented by Birch Communications & Georgia Power

A Festival favorite, this fun kick-off evening will feature live entertainment by The Swingin' Medallions.

Complimentary heavy hors d'oeuvres / Cash bar; Formal attire 
Macon City Auditorium, 415 First Street
8:00 p.m.
$62.50 per person, Tables of 8 available
Mercer Ticket Sales: 478.301.5470
Purchase Tickets!

Saturday, March 16th

Pink Pancake Breakfast Presented by the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department

Eat this up for a good cause!

Parkview Pavilion at Miller Lite Central City Park
7:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
$5; Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society
Free parking

Macon Mud Run Presented by Hephzibah Ministries

Race through this challenging course of obstacles, pond crossings, hills, tunnel crawls, and oodles of mud pits.

Hepzibah Children's Home
6601 Zebulon Road
9:00am - 4:00pm; Mini Muddler: $15; Regular Race $45-$60
www.maconmudrun.com / 478-477-3383 ext. 168

Cherry Blossom Golf Tournament

Hit one for the festival!

Men’s & Senior Men's Tournament
Bowden Golf Course; 311 Millerfield Road
$180 per team; 8:00am - 4:00pm
Details: 478.256.4101; cityofmacon.net

1st Annual Varsity Cruise In Presented by Sid's Sandwich Shop & Jones County Cruisers

Cruise in and show off your classic car at the old Varsity Drive-In (now Sid's Sandwich Shop). All proceeds benefit local charity.

$10.00 per car
9:00am - 3:00pm
jonescountycrusiers.com / 478-746-2772

Central Georgia’s Strongest Man Presented by Greg Fields for North American Strongman

Strongmen from across the United States battle it out in a competition of pure brutal strength events.

Miller Lite Central City Park, top of the park
10 a.m.; Free admission
Details: nastrongman.com

Pull for the House Presented by Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Georgia

Ronald McDonald House Charities exemplifies the concept of strength in numbers. At the 6th annual Pull for the House, teams of 15 will compete to see who can pull a 60,000 pound truck in the fastest time.

Cherry Street Plaza
10:00am - 12:30pm
Free admission; $1 donation for certain activities
Teams contact: dm@rmhcga.org / 478-746-4090

Kids CherryDazzle

Be dazzled with face painting, games, mascots, and prizes.

Miller Lite Central City Park
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Free admission for kids of all ages

Dixie Disc Dogs Championships Presented by the Greater Atlanta Dog & Disc Club in Association with WOOF

Watch Premier Frisbee Dogs from around the country compete for the championship title.

Miller Lite Central City Park
11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
$5 for competing dogs; Free admission

Pet Fashion Show Presented by FURever Friends Humane Society

$25 prizes for 1st place winners in each category:  Best Dressed, Pet Owner Look-a-like, Most Unusual, Best Looking Leprechaun, and Grand Prize Doggy Dazzle King & Queen.

Coca-Cola Entertainment Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Registration: 11 a.m.; $5; Free admission

Snakes of Georgia Encounter Presented by Southeastern Reptile Rescue

Prepare for more amazement than spooks at this educational experience featuring venomous and non-venomous snakes of Georgia.

Miller Lite Central City Park, Coca-Cola Entertainment Stage
Look-and-learn display next to the Round Building; live demonstrations: 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Free admission

Motorcycle Galore Presented by ABATE of Georgia

Why pedal when you can ride? See over 250 bikes on display from motorcycle enthusiasts from around the state.

Miller Lite Central City Park
12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.
Free admission

Children's Sidewalk Chalk

Draw on this extra large art board, held in conjunction with the Bed Race. Fun for all kids and the occasional adult!

Third Street Park
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Free admission and chalk

Bed Race Presented by Georgia College and State University Macon Graduate Center & Walthall Oil Company 

Laugh if you will. But these wild and wacky speed machines are serious. Bed race teams zoom through historic Downtown Macon in hopes of hoisting the “Fastest Bed” trophy.  Can anyone knock off the reigning champs the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department? New for 2013 - Two divisions: "Wild n' Wacky" & "Fast & Furious".

Cherry Street
1 p.m.
$50 per five-member team; Click to register!
Free admission
Heat timing by: Clark Nexsen

Media: NewsCentral

High Heels for the Cure Presented by Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Get pumped. Men and women will run through downtown Macon in high heels to raise money for a cure to end breast cancer. Heels must be at least 2".

Cherry Street
2 p.m., immediately following Bed Race
$10 donation to run
Registration: komencentralga.org; Questions: 478.390.4828

Macon-Bibb Firefighter Competition Events

Adding yet another reason to love everyday hero firefighters, this is a competition sure to entertain the entire family. See their skill, agility and teamwork live in downtown Macon!

Cherry Street; Free admission; 478.751.9180 / shane.edwards@macon.ga.us

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

Ocmulgee Latern Light Tours Presented by ONMA

See the Ocmulgee National Monument under the stars. Grab a latern and walk to the Great Temple Mount on your own or join a Ranger for a guided tour.

7:30pm - 9:30pm; Tours every 30 minutes
$5.00 ages 13+; 478-752-8257

Tunes & Balloons Presented by American Pride Bank, Burgess Pigment, Cox Communications, and Georgia Power. Supported by Atlanta Gas Light

Marvel at hot air balloon tether rides and the balloon glow at this picnic-style event. Get into children’s activities and live music. Tour Middle Georgia State College's Waddell Barnes Botanical Gardens. Heykid! and Travis Denning Band on stage!

Middle Georgia State College (Formerly Macon State); 100 College Station Drive
Gates open at 4 p.m.; Balloons glow at dusk, weather permitting
$5; children under 6 are free
Free parking; Blankets and lawn chairs encouraged; Food/beverages for purchase
Purchase Tickets

Suessical the Musical Co-presented by The Grand Opera House

Join in for one of the most popular Broadway hits of all time! Suessical the Musical stops in Macon just in time for the Cherry  Blossom  Festival, so you can sing and dance with your favorite characters from classic stories. This play offers entertainment for people of  all ages, but is especially geared to excite a younger audience.

The Grand Opera House - 651 Mulberry St
Saturday, March 16th – 2:30pm & Monday
March 18th – 9:30am & 11:30am

Free Nightly Concert Presented By State Bank & Trust

A2Z Band: 9:00 - 11:00 p.m.
Opener: 7:30 - 9 p.m.
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

A Festival of Music for Organ and Brass Presented by St. Joseph Catholic Church

Blending organ, brass and timpani in the beautiful historic St. Joseph Catholic Church, this concert is one for classical music lovers! Colony IV Brass with timpanist Rob Sumowski and organist Nelda Chapman.

830 Poplar Street
7:30 p.m.; Free admission
Details: 478.745.1631; stjosephmacon.com

Sunday, March 17th

Cherry Blossom Golf Tournament

Hit one for the festival!

Men’s & Senior Men's Tournament
Bowden Golf Course; 311 Millerfield Road
$180 per team; $90 per person
Details: 478.256.4101; cityofmacon.net

Lantern Lighting Presented by Wesleyan College

Ignite the festival and join festival dignitaries to light the ceremonial lantern in Third Street Park.

Third Street Park at Mulberry Street
10:00 a.m.; Free admission

Dixie Disc Dogs Championships Presented by the Greater Atlanta Dog & Disc Club in Association with WOOF

Watch Premier Frisbee Dogs from around the country compete for the championship title.

Miller Lite Central City Park
11 - 5 p.m.
$5 for competing dogs; Free admission

Opening Worship Service

Gather for this Sunday church service honoring the Cherry Blossom Festival.

St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 830 Poplar Street
12:10 p.m.; Free admission

Saint Patrick's Day at the Park

Shamrocks and Cherry Blossoms! Free rides from Drew Expositions from 12:30pm - 1:30pm with current church bulletin. Green margaritas, Leprechaun contest, Applesauce eating contest, and more!

Miller Lite Central City Park

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

2nd Annual Cherry Blossom Concert Presented by Sisterhood of Temple Beth Israel

Georgia College & State University Chamber Quartet will present a unique and exciting educational program.

1:00pm; Free admission
Temple Beth Israel - 892 Cherry St. 
478-745-6727

Joyous Music for the Organ Presented by Saint Joseph's Catholic Church

Dr. Joby Bell, with his sparkling performance, brings to both the trained musician and the average listener a new appreciate for the wonders of the pipe organ. Presented on the 53-rank Schlicker Pipe Organ in the beautiful, historic Saint Joseph's Catholic Church.

2:00pm; Free admission
Saint Joseph's Catholic Church - 830 Poplar St. 
478-745-1631

It's a Pink, Pink, Pink World Parade Presented by Geico

It’s all here: colorful floats, military units, marching bands, costumed performers, international dignitaries and much more!

Cherry and Mulberry Streets
3:30 p.m.; Free admission
Click for Parade Application!

Dinner and a Jazz Band Presented by Riverside United Methodist Church & First Presbyterian Day School

Listen to FPD's jazz ensemble; bring your own brown bag dinner, and enjoy homemade desserts available for purchase.

Riverside United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall; 735 Pierce Avenue
6 p.m.; Free admission

Details: 478.746.9688 x120; rumcmacon.org

Free Nightly Concert Presented by State Bank & Trust

Kenny Mann & the Liquid Pleasure Band: 9:00 p.m. - 11:00pm
The Fabulous Boomers: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

What a Wonderful World

Feast your ears on the international language - music! Prepare to hear Middle Georgia Concert Band's variety music inspired by the Festival's featured nations and produced by Middle Georgia Community Musicians.

Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College
7:30 pm; Free admission ; 478-751-7426

Ocmulgee Latern Light Tours Presented by ONMA

See the Ocmulgee National Monument under the stars. Grab a latern and walk to the Great Temple Mount on your own or join a Ranger for a guided tour.

7:30pm - 9:30pm; Tours every 30 minutes
$5.00 ages 13+; 478-752-8257

Monday, March 18th

Free Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Presented by Amanda's Cakery

Free cupcakes! Need we say more? Enjoy almond pound cake with pink buttercream icing. While supplies last. 

Amanda's Cakery; 321 Cotton Avenue
11 a.m. - 12 p.m. while supplies last
Details: 478.738.9504; amandascakery.net

The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Check out the unique museum dedicated to the Allman Brothers Band. Museum tours by appointment only.

478-741-5551; $8.00 or $6.00 for groups (10+), military, seniors, and students
2321 Vineville Avenue; 11:00am - 6:00pm

Third Street Park Festivities Presented by Atlanta Postal Credit Union

Yum! Yum! Free ice cream and donuts while supplies last, plus live entertainment. Carriage rides courtesy of Jackson Automotive.

Third Street Park
11:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Free admission

Spotlight Featured Nation: France
 

Cherry Blossom Organ Concert

Hear the 30-minute organ concert in historic Mulberry Street United Methodist Church.

Mulberry Street United Methodist Church, 719 Mulberry Street
12 noon; Free admission; mulberrymethodist.org

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Media Partners 13 WMAZ & Cumulus Broadcasting

Free Nightly Concert Presented by State Bank &Trust

Big Mike & the Booty Papas: 6 - 9 p.m.
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park
 

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

An Evening of Music Presented by Bibb County School District

Delight in an evening of fine music from The Department of Fine Arts featuring the Bibb County Honor Choir and instrumental music.

Performing Arts Center, Central High School; 2155 Napier Avenue
7 p.m.; Free admission
Details: 478.765.8595

Broadway in Bloom Presented by Medical Center of Central Georgia

Drink, dine, sing along, and tap your toes to Broadway favorites in the beautiful, historic Armory Ballroom. Showtunes performed live by local artist JJ Hobbs & friends.

$40.00 per person; 6:30pm Cash Bar Cocktail; 7:00pm showtime. 
Armory Ballroom - 484 First Street
Purchase Tickets

Tuesday, March 19th

Authors Luncheon Presented by AARP

Enjoy the company of Bill Cummings Jr, renowned author and decorator, Deborah Ford, author of GRITS, and Karen White, New York Times Best Selling Author.

Idle Hour Country Club, 251 Idle Hour Drive
11:30 am; $35 per person
478-751-7429
Purchase Tickets

Third Street Park Festivities Presented by Atlanta Postal Credit Union

Yum! Yum! Free ice cream and donuts while supplies last, plus live entertainment. Carriage rides courtesy of Jackson Automotive.

Third Street Park
11:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Free admission

Spotlight Featured Nation: Great Britain

The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Check out the unique museum dedicated to the Allman Brothers Band. Museum tours by appointment only.

478-741-5551; $8.00 or $6.00 for groups (10+), military, seniors, and students
2321 Vineville Avenue; 11:00am - 6:00pm

Cherry Blossom Organ Concert

Hear the 30-minute organ concert in historic Mulberry Street United Methodist Church.

Mulberry Street United Methodist Church, 719 Mulberry Street
12 noon; Free admission

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Cherry Blossom Tea Presented by The Mentor's Project

The Mentor's Project and the American Red Cross' Tea is set at the American Red Cross House at 195 Holt Avenue. Join the Mentor's Project proteges as they are introduced to guests from around the world in the comfort of the historic American Red Cross Office.

American Red Cross Office - 195 Holt Ave
3:00pm - 4:30pm; Free
June O'Neal - 478-765-8624

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

Free Nightly Concert Presented by State Bank & Trust

Hollywood Band: 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

Military Concert Presented by OSAN Petroleum
Middle Georgia Concert Band

Join the Cherry Blossom Festival in musical celebration of the armed forces that keep us safe and allow us the freedom to celebrate the Pinkest Party on Earth!

Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College, 4760 Forsyth Road

7:30 pm; Free admission

Tuesday, March 19th

Authors Luncheon Presented by AARP

Enjoy the company of Bill Cummings Jr, renowned author and decorator, Deborah Ford, author of GRITS, and Karen White, New York Times Best Selling Author.

Idle Hour Country Club, 251 Idle Hour Drive
11:30 am; $35 per person
478-751-7429
Purchase Tickets

Third Street Park Festivities Presented by Atlanta Postal Credit Union

Yum! Yum! Free ice cream and donuts while supplies last, plus live entertainment. Carriage rides courtesy of Jackson Automotive.

Third Street Park
11:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Free admission

Spotlight Featured Nation: Great Britain

The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Check out the unique museum dedicated to the Allman Brothers Band. Museum tours by appointment only.

478-741-5551; $8.00 or $6.00 for groups (10+), military, seniors, and students
2321 Vineville Avenue; 11:00am - 6:00pm

Cherry Blossom Organ Concert

Hear the 30-minute organ concert in historic Mulberry Street United Methodist Church.

Mulberry Street United Methodist Church, 719 Mulberry Street
12 noon; Free admission

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Cherry Blossom Tea Presented by The Mentor's Project

The Mentor's Project and the American Red Cross' Tea is set at the American Red Cross House at 195 Holt Avenue. Join the Mentor's Project proteges as they are introduced to guests from around the world in the comfort of the historic American Red Cross Office.

American Red Cross Office - 195 Holt Ave
3:00pm - 4:30pm; Free
June O'Neal - 478-765-8624

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

Free Nightly Concert Presented by State Bank & Trust

Hollywood Band: 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

Military Concert Presented by OSAN Petroleum
Middle Georgia Concert Band

Join the Cherry Blossom Festival in musical celebration of the armed forces that keep us safe and allow us the freedom to celebrate the Pinkest Party on Earth!

Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College, 4760 Forsyth Road

7:30 pm; Free admission

Wednesday, March 20th

Third Street Park Festivities Presented by Atlanta Postal Credit Union

Yum! Yum! Free ice cream and donuts while supplies last, plus live entertainment. Carriage rides courtesy of Jackson Automotive.

Third Street Park
11:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Free admission

Spotlight Featured Nation: Taiwan

The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Check out the unique museum dedicated to the Allman Brothers Band. Museum tours by appointment only.

478-741-5551; $8.00 or $6.00 for groups (10+), military, seniors, and students
2321 Vineville Avenue; 11:00am - 6:00pm

Cherry Blossom Organ Concert

Hear the 30-minute organ concert in historic Mulberry Street United Methodist Church.

Mulberry Street United Methodist Church, 719 Mulberry Street
12 noon; Free admission

First Presbyterian Church Historic & Architectural Interpretation

Experience the colorful history of First Presbyterian Church; learn the connection to Sidney Lanier, John Gresham, Elam Alexander, and many other Macon notables, as well as the numerous active ministries as shared by church members

First Presbyterian Church - 682 Mulberry St
1:00pm - 3:00pm; Free
478-746-3223

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

Free Nightly Concert Presented by State Bank & Trust

The Loose Screws: 6 - 9 p.m.
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

Thursday, March 21st

Cherry Blossom Golf Tournament

Hit one for the festival!

Women’s Tournament
Bowden Golf Course; 311 Millerfield Road
$75 per team; 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Details: 478.256.4101; cityofmacon.net

Cherry Blossom Grand Rounds -"Phillip Franz von Siebold & Rangaku in Medieval Japan" Presented by the Department of Surgery - The Medical Center of Central Georgia & Don Nakayama, MD

Enjoy this presentation focusing on the historic relationship of the Dutch & Japanese medical culture.

Eversole Auditorium, Medical Center of Central Georgia; 822 Hemlock Street
7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Free admission
478.633.6952

First Presbyterian Church Historic & Architectural Interpretation

An architectural perspective on beautiful First Presbyterian Church constructed in 1858 during Macon's antebellum prosperity days with seating capacity of 600 and beautiful Casavant Freres organ with 2,892 pipes. Optional facility tour following program.

First Presbyterian Church - 682 Mulberry St
10:00am - 12:00pm; Free
478-746-3223

45th Annual Old Book Sale Presented by Friends of the Library

Sale of over 100,000 books to benefit the Bibb County libraries and support the literacy effort in the Middle Georgia community.

10:00am - 7:00pm; Macon Centerplex - 240 Coliseum Drive
Free admission; 478-745-2422

The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Check out the unique museum dedicated to the Allman Brothers Band.

478-741-5551; $8.00 or $6.00 for groups (10+), military, seniors, and students
2321 Vineville Avenue; 11:00am - 6:00pm

Third Street Park Festivities Presented by Atlanta Postal Credit Union

Yum! Yum! Free ice cream and donuts while supplies last, plus live entertainment. Carriage rides courtesy of Jackson Automotive.

Third Street Park
11:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Free admission

Spotlight Featured Nation: Japan

Media Partners: NewsCentral & Cumulus Broadcasting

Beauty Blossoming: A Spring Fashion Journey Presented by Carlyle Place and Georgia Heart Center of the Medical Center of Central GA

In the name of fashion, this posh annual favorite runway is for you! Local tastemaker Mark Ballard will coordinate and emcee this stylish show, including celebrity guest models, pink champagne and catered brunch by Edgar’s Bistro!

Anderson Conference Center; 5171 Eisenhower Parkway
Doors open: 11:00 a.m.
$35; tables of ten available
Mercer Ticket Sales: 478.301.5470
Purchase Tickets

Media Partners 13 WMAZ, The Telegraph, Macon Magazine & Cumulus Broadcasting

Cherry Blossom Organ Concert

Hear the 30-minute organ concert in historic Mulberry Street United Methodist Church.

Mulberry Street United Methodist Church, 719 Mulberry Street
12 noon; Free admission

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Media Partners 13 WMAZ & Cumulus Broadcasting

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

Free Nightly Concert Presented by State Bank & Trust

The Grapevine - 8:00pm - 11:00pm
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

A Celebration of Gospel
Jay Terrell featuring Essence of Worship and Friends with special guest Beulahland Bible Church Mass Choir and other TBA artists.
Porter Auditorium - Wesleyan College
Thursday, March 21st - 7:00pm
Free Admission!

GRITS The Musical Co-presented by Amanda Jane, The Grand Opera House, and Vein Specialists of the South

Based on the book Friends are Forever by Deborah Ford, GRITS: The Musical is a full production journey that will take you to and through the heart of the South. It’s four women, four generations and four different views. It’s your mother, your sister, your Grandma, your best friend. It’s sweet tea, collard greens, fresh tomatoes and banana puddin’.

The Grand Opera House
Thursday, March 21st – 7:30pm & Friday, March 22nd – 2:30pm & 7:30pm
Tickets Available at TheGrandMacon.com

Friday, March 22nd

45th Annual Old Book Sale Presented by Friends of the Library

Sale of over 100,000 books to benefit the Bibb County libraries and support the literacy effort in the Middle Georgia community.

10:00am - 7:00pm; Macon Centerplex - 240 Coliseum Drive
Free admission; 478-745-2422

The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Check out the unique museum dedicated to the Allman Brothers Band.

478-741-5551; $8.00 or $6.00 for groups (10+), military, seniors, and students
2321 Vineville Avenue; 11:00am - 6:00pm

Third Street Park Festivities Presented by Atlanta Postal Credit Union

Yum! Yum! Free ice cream and donuts while supplies last, plus live entertainment. Carriage rides courtesy of Jackson Automotive.

Third Street Park
11:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Free admission

Founder's Day

Media Partners: NewsCentral & Cumulus Broadcasting

Cherry Blossom Organ Concert

Hear the 30-minute organ concert in historic Mulberry Street United Methodist Church.

Mulberry Street United Methodist Church, 719 Mulberry Street
12 noon; Free admission

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Media Partners 13 WMAZ & Cumulus Broadcasting

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

Coleman Hill Jazz Concert

Presented by Jones, Cork & Miller

Come early, with blanket and picnic ready for a fantastic evening of music from the Joey Stuckey Band overlooking one of the most beautiful views of Macon, Georgia at night!

6-8 p.m.; Free admission

Ocmulgee Latern Light Tours Presented by ONMA

See the Ocmulgee National Monument under the stars. Grab a latern and walk to the Great Temple Mount on your own or join a Ranger for a guided tour.

7:30pm - 9:30pm; Tours every 30 minutes
$5.00 ages 13+; 478-752-8257

GRITS The Musical Co-presented with Amanda Jane, The Grand Opera House, and Vein Specialists of the South

Based on the book Friends are Forever by Deborah Ford, GRITS: The Musical is a full production journey that will take you to and through the heart of the South. It’s four women, four generations and four different views. It’s your mother, your sister, your Grandma, your best friend. It’s sweet tea, collard greens, fresh tomatoes and banana puddin’.

Co-presented with Amanda Jane, The Grand Opera House, and Vein Specialists of the South

The Grand Opera House

Friday, March 22nd – 2:30pm & 7:30pm

Tickets Available at TheGrandMacon.com

Lundy Chapel Cherry Blossom Gospel Gala

An elegant evening of dining and gospel music at the Lundy Chapel Events Center.

$50.00 per person; 478-474-3400
7:30pm; www.lcmbc.com

Free Nightly Concert Presented by State Bank & Trust

Big Daddy & Company 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

Saturday, March 23rd

Pink Pancake Breakfast Presented by the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department

Eat this up for a good cause!

Parkview Pavilion at Central City Park
7:00 - 10:00 a.m.
$5; Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society
Free parking

Cherry Blossom Road Race Presented by Wesley Glen Ministries

Run among the cherry blossoms, and bring the kids for the carnival in this road race to benefit the services Wesley Glen Ministries provides to developmentally disabled adults.

Howard Middle School
8:00 - 11 a.m.
Options: 5k & 10K - $20.00 / 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk - $12.00
Register: 478.471.3711; cherryblossomroadrace.com

Cherry Blossom Festival Car Show Presented by Flag City Mustangs

17th annual Cherry Blossom Festival Mustang & Ford car show at Miller Lite Central City Park.

8:00am - 5:00pm; Free admission; $25.00 per car entry fee
478-960-4240; http://www.freewebs.com/flagcitymc/home.htm

Cherry Blossom Golf Tournament

Hit one for the festival!

Junior's Tournament
Bowden Golf Course; 311 Millerfield Road
8:00am - 12:00pm; $25.00 per person
Details: 478.256.4101; cityofmacon.net

45th Annual Old Book Sale Presented by Friends of the Library

Sale of over 100,000 books to benefit the Bibb County libraries and support the literacy effort in the Middle Georgia community.

10:00am - 5:00pm; Macon Centerplex - 240 Coliseum Drive
Free admission; 478-745-2422

The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Check out the unique museum dedicated to the Allman Brothers Band.

478-741-5551; $8.00 or $6.00 for groups (10+), military, seniors, and students
2321 Vineville Avenue; 11:00am - 6:00pm

Food Truck Frenzy

Savor the delights from gourmet food trucks from around the South! This new event features the latest trends in culinary culture. Live entertainment provided by Ernest Rogers under the Cherry Tree canopy.

Third Street Park between Mulberry and Walnut Streets
11 – 6 p.m.; Free admission; On-site beer sales

Mulberry Street Arts & Crafts Festival Presented by the Middle Georgia Art Association

A staple in Macon's arts scene, the city's oldest and finest outdoor arts and crafts show is back with over 200 vendors. Mulberry Street from 2nd - 3rd Street.

10:00am - 5:00pm; Free admission
Middlegeorgiaart.org

PAWS for a Cause Presented by FURever Friends

Make good on your promise to your pooch with agility training demos, obedience 101, micro-chipping and vaccine clinic.

11 - 3 p.m.
Miller Lite Central City Park, top of the Park

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

Ocmulgee Latern Light Tours Presented by ONMA

See the Ocmulgee National Monument under the stars. Grab a latern and walk to the Great Temple Mount on your own or join a Ranger for a guided tour.

7:30pm - 9:30pm; Tours every 30 minutes
$5.00 ages 13+; 478-752-8257

Free Nightly Concert Presented by State Bank & Trust

Whiskey Bent - 8:00pm - 11:00pm
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

Street Party

Macon, Georgia's International Cherry Blossom Festival is proud to welcome multi-platinum selling artist 38 SPECIAL back to the "Birthplace of Southern Rock" as the headlining act for the 2013 STREET PARTY - MARCH, 23RD. Best known for their #1 hit singles - including  "Hold on Loosely", "Caught Up in You", "If I'd Been the One", and many more - the group has sold over 20 million records to date. In October of 2012, the band was inducted  into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, alongside Sugarland and many more.

THE DIRTY GUV'NAHS, a Knoxville-based group whose critical success following the 2012 release of Under These Southern Skies propelled  them to sold out shows around the country will offer support. Since 2010, The Guvs have shared the stage with Zac Brown Band, Grace Potter,  Easton Corbin, and many more - including an appearance at the 2012 Bonnaroo Music Festival.

Closing out the Street Party lineup will be the ATLANTA FUNK SOCIETY, whose '70s and '80s inspired brass grooves are responsible for parties  around the country, as well as an opening performance from THE WILD FEATHERS, a down-home rock act who've spent time of the road with the  legendary Paul Simon.

Cherry St. Plaza - Downtown Macon
Saturday, March 23rd - 5:00pm-11:00pm
Tickets on sale February 26th

Party on the pavement in Downtown Macon!

Gates open: 5 pm
Tickets: $12 in advance; $20 day of show
Purchase Tickets

Sunday, March 24th

45th Annual Old Book Sale Presented by Friends of the Library

Sale of over 100,000 books to benefit the Bibb County libraries and support the literacy effort in the Middle Georgia community. All books half price.

11:00am - 5:00pm; Macon Centerplex - 240 Coliseum Drive
Free admission; 478-745-2422

The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Check out the unique museum dedicated to the Allman Brothers Band.

478-741-5551; $8.00 or $6.00 for groups (10+), military, seniors, and students
2321 Vineville Avenue; 11:00am - 6:00pm

Reverend Jimmy Waters Closing Worship Service

New Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church; 475 Church Street
11 a.m.; Free admission

Food Truck Frenzy

Savor the delights from gourmet food trucks from around the South! This new event features the latest trends in culinary culture. Live entertainment provided by Ernest Rogers under the Cherry Tree canopy.

Third Street Park between Mulberry and Walnut Streets
11 – 6 p.m.; Free admission; On-site beer sales

Mulberry Street Arts & Crafts Festival Presented by the Middle Georgia Art Association

A staple in Macon's arts scene, the city's oldest and finest outdoor arts and crafts show is back with over 200 vendors. Mulberry Street from 2nd - 3rd Street.

10:00am - 5:00pm; Free admission
Middlegeorgiaart.org

Free Concert Presented by State Bank & Trust

Live Bluegrass Music 11:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Coca-Cola Stage, Miller Lite Central City Park

Bengal Tiger Show Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

The excitement, education, fun and safe factors of the this show cannot be overstated. The cats are treated with respect and care and are not harmed in any manner.

Miller Lite Central City Park
Two Shows Daily - Times TBA Free admission

Grand Finale Presented by Heritage Bank of the South & Wilson-Bryant HVAC

Supported by Cheddar's

A favorite finale fit for all, featuring fireworks at dusk, children’s activities, food vendors and live entertainment from Gringo Grande. Picnics and blankets are encouraged at this closing event of the 31st annual festival. 

Wesleyan College; 4760 Forsyth Road
5 p.m.; Free admission

Spring Spirit Stroll Presented by Riverside Cemetery

Stroll back in time on a one-hour guided walking tour of Riverside Cemetery. Call for group information and scheduling.

$10.00 ages 12+; 478-742-5328
5:30pm - 6:30pm
riversidecemeteryconservancy.org

Ocmulgee Lantern Light Tours Presented by ONMA

See the Ocmulgee National Monument under the stars. Grab a latern and walk to the Great Temple Mount on your own or join a Ranger for a guided tour.

7:30pm - 9:30pm; Tours every 30 minutes
$5.00 ages 13+; 478-752-8257