WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA—FEBRUARY 2026—Located only 30 minutes northwest of Atlanta, Woodstock offers a vibrant arts scene with music as one of its highlights. On any day of the week, visitors will discover live music at the city’s many performance venues, restaurants and brewery stages. Festivals and musical events occur year-round as well. Come for the vibrant downtown full of boutique shopping, culinary delights, outdoor adventure and other artistic attractions, but don’t miss the exciting music scene that is Woodstock. 

Year-round music and performing art venues

There are numerous music and performance venues to choose from in Woodstock, so there’s constantly something for everyone. For instance, MadLife Stage & Studios brings in live music from local musicians to national touring artists every night of the week—plus some comedy shows too. The venue includes a full restaurant and bar, outdoor patio and a separate indoor music room. And, as the name suggests, recording artists come here to tape their latest creations, which means you’ll never know who might show up in downtown Woodstock.

Pure Taqueria hosts DJ Nights every weekend on their rooftop bar, making it a great venue for dancing under the stars while overlooking the night lights of downtown Woodstock. Almost every weekend, visitors will discover live music—not to mention craft brews—under the city’s landmark elm tree in Reformation Brewery’s expansive backyard.

For a more mellow vibe, Wine Down Wednesdays at Adair Park always features a local singer-songwriter performing on the terrace.

Recurring annual musical events

Woodstock, like most of the Atlanta metropolitan area, enjoys a mild climate. Even at the apex of summer, nights at this elevation can be comfortable and relaxing. So naturally, outdoor music spaces are a must.

The Woodstock Summer Concert Series welcomes a diverse variety of performers each summer, from iconic original artists to energetic tribute acts. The free amphitheater concerts under the summer stars occur every second Saturday from May through September. Parking is available nearby, but free shuttles also run to and from the event from three locations. 

The 2026 concert season promises an extraordinary mix of iconic anthems, award-winning artists and crowd-pleasing tributes set against the heart of downtown Woodstock. On Saturday, May 9th, Black Jacket Symphony returns to the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater to open the 2026 season presenting Bon Jovi’s Slippery When Wet and other hits. On June 13th, Grammy, ACM, CMA and CMT award-winning country star Carly Pearce takes the stage to share her authentic storytelling and powerhouse vocals. At the third concert in the series on July 11th, legendary R&B and funk powerhouse Midnight Star will captivate downtown Woodstock with their signature blend of infectious grooves and soulful melodies. On August 8th, the Pop 2000 Tour with Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC, O-Town and LFO will bring you right back to the early 2000s. For the final show of the season on September 12th, electrifying Elton John and Billy Joel tribute band Face 2 Face will pay homage to the two iconic piano legends. For more information on these shows, click here. 

Another outdoor venue in downtown Woodstock is the Woodstock Arts Event Green, a place to witness outstanding arts performances in a variety of genres, including the organization’s Lantern Series, which consists of different genres, backgrounds and ideologies in hopes of bringing the community together to find a literal and figurative common ground. The organization also engages an extensive theatre program that includes musical theater. 

If you go

Come for the live music and stay to experience the rest of what Woodstock has to offer. Woodstock offers a variety of lodging options, spectacular dining experiences, shopping and more. For information on annual events and year-round happenings such as walking tours, seasonal markets, festivals, concerts and more, visit VisitWoodstockGA.com/events/ or make a stop at the Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store (Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store, 8588 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-924-0406) located in the heart of downtown Woodstock.

The post Woodstock, Georgia: A Cultural City Where Music Thrives appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA–APRIL 2025–Known for its low-rise lifestyle and low-key atmosphere, Gulf County, Florida, isn’t the typical summertime destination. Its beautiful beaches are joined by diverse off-beach activities, fun events and, of course, magical sunsets. Whether celebrating special events, family time or just a fun getaway, this is the place, any time of year. And its central location on the northern Gulf of Mexico, just two hours southwest of Tallahassee and an hour east of Panama City Beach, makes it an easy drive destination. 

Beaches

Beaches are always in season here. With no neon lights and no tall buildings to distract from the natural beauty, Gulf County’s beaches are the main attraction. Throughout the unique communities that comprise this 43-mile stretch of shoreline there is plenty of beach access and a host of ways to enjoy the beaches, waters and activities that keep visitors coming back again and again. From St. Joe Beach, where Gulf County meets the Central Time Zone and sunsets are spectacular, to the inland waters of the Dead Lakes in Wewahitchka, and from Cape San Blas, on St. Joseph peninsula, to the Old Florida vibe of Indian Pass beaches, each area has a personality of its own.

Port St. Joe is the hub of Gulf County’s beach communities. Convenient bay access points, like Frank Pate Park (502 Monument Ave, Port Saint Joe, Florida 32456), make launching a boat or joining a fishing charter easy. Port South Marina (340 Marina Drive, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-797-3489), located on the eastern shore of St. Joseph Bay, is also a hub for fishing charters and pontoon rentals.

Downtown fun

For some retail adventure, Port St. Joe’s popular Reid Avenue is the place to find local specialties and one-of-a-kind deals all year long. The locally owned markets and restaurants make this quaint downtown a unique destination for shopping and dining and the options offer plenty of variety. From the organic coffees, teas and baked goods at The Joe (220 Reid Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-8065) to the inventive drinks and coastal specialties at Krazyfish Grille (113 Monument Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-7878) to the upscale fare at Provisions (222 Reid Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-9200), the local flavor is outstanding. Shoppers love the variety of the one-of-a-kind items at Going Coastal (103 Reid Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-899-9129) and nautical and beach-inspired finds at Bay Breeze Antiques (219 Reid Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-7774). And these are only the beginning in a shopping district filled with personality and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Live music venues also dot the landscape in Port St. Joe and beyond. Those who enjoy exploring the local music scene have plenty of options here. Spots like The Mill Mercantile and Social (105 Goodmorning Street, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456, 850-899-9149), the Haughty Heron (117 Sailors Cove, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-3463) and the Tap Root (212 Monument Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-387-1290) are fun spots for live entertainment and casual dining.

Family adventures

Parks, playgrounds and walking trails are year-round ways to enjoy the outdoors in Gulf County. The William J. “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area (6773 Cape San Blas Road, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-227-1876) is popular for its white-sand beaches and blue Gulf waters. For those who want to get away from it all, T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park (8899 Cape San Blas Road, Port St. Joe Florida 32456; 850-227-1327, Reservations: 800-326-3521), on Cape San Blas, has 20 miles of pristine beaches, including dunes along the waters of the Gulf of Mexico to one side and marshes along St. Joseph Bay. St. Joseph Bay is a prime spot for family fun all year. From shelling and snorkeling in the spring to scalloping in the fall, these calm, shallow waters are the perfect year-round playground. 

Horseback beach rides are a special treat in Gulf County and offer the perfect way to take in an autumn sunset. Experienced guides with Broke-A-Toe Horseback Riding (Port St Joe, Florida 32456; 850-899-RIDE) or the Rockin’ M Ranch (240 Cape San Blas Road, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-227-6117) make the ride easy and the setting makes it unforgettable.

Of course, documenting the fun is crucial and a trip to the Time-Zone Chair (corner of CR 386 and Highway 98), on the spot where the time zone changes, is the perfect way to do that. In fact, there are quite a few selfie spots throughout the county for those looking for photo opportunities to share.

Events all year

Special events add to the fun in Gulf County all year, also. The Tupelo Honey Festival each May celebrates the golden nectar found in the stands of tupelo trees the Dead Lakes are known for. 

September brings family fun at the two-day Florida Scallop Music & Arts Festival in Port St. Joe.

In February (and again in the fall) the St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve (3915 State Road #30-A, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-1787) celebrates Bay Day, which combines education about the preserve’s amazing biodiversity with tasty shrimp and live music. 

Music lovers can’t miss Blues on Reid in April and the Forgotten Music Festival in October. October also brings the Blast on the Bay songwriters’ festival which features more than 30 prolific songwriters performing at numerous venues throughout the destination during the four-day event.

Where to stay

Gulf County’s lodging choices offer a range of ways to spend time just the way you want. Vacation rental homes, from small to large, rustic to modern, are popular and offer the perfect options for any getaway–or get together. Camping, both primitive beach camping and full hook-up RV sites, is a popular way to enjoy this coastal area, as well.

The post Celebrate Your Favorite Season in Gulf County  appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

CAPITAL CITY/LAKE MURRAY COUNTRY, SOUTH CAROLINA—APRIL 2024—Long seasons of great weather draw visitors to outdoor pursuits in Capital City/Lake Murray Country, where the azure waters of Lake Murray and the swampy ecosystem of South Carolina’s only national park provide bucket-list opportunities to experience one-of-a-kind natural marvels. This four-county region anchored by Lake Murray and the surrounding counties of Lexington, Newberry, Richland and Saluda is the perfect setting for discovering hidden gems. Conveniently located off Interstates I-77, I-20, and I-26 in the central part of South Carolina, it’s a destination for boaters, fishing aficionados and wildlife watchers. 

Connecting the four counties is Lake Murray, a sparkling jewel and South Carolina’s biggest best-kept vacation secret, with 650 miles of shoreline and plenty of amenities and attractions for lazy and lively aquatic adventures. Boating Magazine calls Lake Murray one of the country’s “Top 10 Boating Destinations and Places to Live,” yet it’s relatively uncrowded. Forested coves provide shelter for fauna year-round and staying at a vacation home rental might provide you with an up-close glimpse of some of Lake Murray’s natural residents.

Explore Astonishing Biodiversity 

South Carolina’s only federally designated park, Congaree National Park, is just a half hour from Columbia. Astonishing biodiversity exists in the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern U.S. Waters from the Congaree and Wateree Rivers carry nutrients and sediments that nourish and rejuvenate this ecosystem and support not only wildlife, but the growth of national and state champion trees.

Timing is everything for bucket-list phenomenon

Any season is perfect for a vacation, but dazzling nature displays are available for limited times only. Plan ahead to experience these unique events in the Capital City/Lake Murray Country region:

Mid-May to Mid-June

Witness the magical, mesmerizing sight of synchronous fireflies only found in a handful of U.S. habitats, including Congaree National Park, southeast of the Capital City of Columbia. Unlike familiar sporadic backyard blinking, thousands of lightning bugs flash in a spectacular choreographed mating display. Guidelines have been set up to ensure the sustainability of this unique natural wonder. Check the timing, view lottery, and learn more at the Capital City/Lake Murray Country firefly page, which is updated annually.

Late June to early August

From late June to early August, the skies over Lake Murray come to life as a million Purple Martins arrive to roost on Bomb Island, exploding up and out to greet the sunrise and swooping and wheeling at sunset. This sanctuary provides the ideal layover before the birds make the long journey south to their winter home in South America. Rent a boat or take a Purple Martin cruise to the middle of the lake near the largest sanctuary in North America to see this bucket-list phenomenon. 

October

Take a guided kayak/canoe swamp tour of the Congaree National Park in cooler weather. Guided tours provide wilderness and shoreline views of river otters, bobcats, deer, owls, and wild boar in this preserve of some of the oldest, tallest hard-growth trees in eastern North America. Weave in and out of oxbows, discover labyrinthian channels, and paddle past cypress knees.

More to do on Lake Murray

From delightful dining spots to marinas and landings, visitors will fall in love with Lake Murray’s many recreational and dining opportunities. A wide array of watercraft is available for rent from local outfitters or visitors can bring their own. Some guests combine a Lake Murray vacation with visits to picturesque small towns, farmers markets, antiquing and agri-tours. Others love its close proximity to entertainment, concerts, museums, and dining just 30 minutes away in Columbia.

One of the many intriguing features of Lake Murray is Dreher Island State Park, a three-island outdoor wonderland covering 12 miles of shoreline. Visitors will find picnicking, camping, lakeside villas, recreational water activities, nature trails and prized fishing spots for striped and large-mouth bass. A tackle and gear loaner program is even available.

Fish a Tournament Lake 

Professional fishing league competitors and those who just love lake fishing are drawn to South Carolina’s Lake Murray for more than 12 species of fish, including crappie and the superstar, largemouth bass. In 2023, Bassmaster named Lake Murray the “Top Lake in the Southeast” and the #4 Lake in the Country for Best Bass Fishing. Some visitors plan their vacation to coincide with top-tier regional and national fishing tournaments; others make plans to visit during less busy times. Expert and entertaining guides and outfitters are ready to help both novice and experienced anglers reel in a big catch, and there are plenty of marinas and landings providing access to the water, picnic areas, waterfront dining, and live entertainment.

Explore More in Congaree National Park

Paddle through the swamp-like ecosystem along Cedar Creek. Self-guided or outfitter-guided tours are available of this 15-mile-long waterway. Opportunities are plentiful for viewing wildlife, such as river otters, deer, turtles, wading birds, and even an occasional alligator. Glide through intriguing wooded waters on marked canoe paths and pass through a forest containing some of the tallest trees in eastern North America. The trees average more than 100 feet; the tallest is about 17 stories high. 

Explore the Congaree Wilderness on land via 25 miles of hiking trails and 2.4 miles of wheelchair-accessible boardwalk. The boardwalk loop trail provides access to Weston Lake and other trails that wind through the Congaree floodplain. Ranger and volunteer guided programs are led on Saturdays year-round. Free wheelchairs are available to loan from the Harry Hampton Visitor Center during operating hours. Can’t get it all in one day? Pitch a tent under the stars at one of the park’s many campsites. Make a camping reservation by calling 1-877-444-6777, NPS.gov. (100 National Park Road | Hopkins, SC 29061, 803-776-4396; nps.gov/cong/index)

If You Go

Lodging includes name brand hotels. popular boutique hotels and charming bed and breakfasts throughout the region. Lake Murray rental homes can accommodate various group sizes, and some offer docks and water recreation amenities, outdoor kitchens and entertaining areas. For the perfect camping or RV’ing adventure in the great outdoors, there are elaborate and simple campgrounds on or near the water, including Dreher Island State Park and Sesquicentennial State Park, on Lake and closer to Columbia. Follow this link to find the perfect accommodations: https://accommodations.lakemurraycountry.com/search/?Checkin=2024-03-21&Checkout=2024-03-23.

Stop by the Lake Murray Country Visitors Center in the historic Lorick Plantation House (2184 North Lake Drive, Columbia, South Carolina 29212; 803-781-5940) to discover more hidden gems and trip ideas. Online, visit LakeMurrayCountry.com.

The post Capital City/Lake Murray Country: Explore Bucket-List Phenomena in South Carolina’s Midlands appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

Dawsonville is only an hour’s drive from bustling Atlanta, but visitors will feel a world away, nestled in a natural mountain oasis.

Take a hike

Dawsonville’s known worldwide as a hiking destination with its Appalachian Approach Trail (418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville Georgia 30534, 706-265-8888) to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. It’s conveniently located at Amicalola Falls State Park (418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; 800-573-9656) where ambitious hikers may learn about the Appalachian Trail, prepare for the 2000-plus mile trek to Maine and start their journey at the famous stone archway marking its pre-trail beginnings. (Visitors might recognize the arch from the film “A Walk in the Woods” with Robert Redford and Nick Nolte.) The Appalachian Approach Trail travels along Little Amicalola Creek to Springer Mountain where the Appalachian Trail officially begins. 

For those who would rather take a shorter hike, the state park offers several trails, including a guided hike up the dramatic cascading waterfall at 729 feet high. 

Amicalola Falls State Park offers a cozy lodge situated on top of a mountain with breathtaking views as well as cabins and campsites, but visitors may choose to hike the five miles to the backcountry Len Foote Hike Inn (280 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534). Friendly staff greet you at trail’s end and provide a room, meals served family style and one of the best sunrise views in Georgia. And it’s all sustainable. Ask the staff and they’re happy to show off their ecotourism ventures. Backpacker magazine named the trail to Len Foote as one of 36 “Best American Hikes” and the inn was included on National Geographic Traveler’s “Stay List.”

There’s so much more to enjoy in Dawson County, including hikes to Bearden and Cochran Creek Falls, trails along the Etowah and Amicalola Rivers and the 39,000 acres of nearby Lake Lanier. And because it’s Georgia, the temperate climate allows visitors to enjoy the outdoors all year long.

Get on the water

There’s numerous ways to paddle, raft, tube or fish the Amicalola and Etowah rivers within Dawson County. Possibilities range from a quiet paddle down placid waters to white-knuckle adventure. Fishing is available at several seasonal and year-round trout streams and at four lake parks within the county. Fish for bass and other species at nearby Lake Lanier, one of the largest lakes in Georgia with its 690 miles of shoreline, and more than 100 small islands.

One of the most accessible fishing and canoe launch areas is the Edge of the World riverside nature trail (7000 GA-53, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534). The trail follows a 2.5-mile loop through the woods but most people use the half-mile (one way) boardwalk trail (ADA compliant) to enjoy one of the most picturesque and challenging stretches of whitewater in the region. Visitors must possess a valid hunting license, fishing license or Georgia Lands Pass to enter this property, any of which may be purchased online. Note: There is no kiosk to pay onsite and no restrooms.

Take aim

Etowah Valley Sporting Clays (619 Sporting Hill Drive, Dawsonville, Georgia, 30534, 706-265-1611) offers beginners to serious sport shooting enthusiasts numerous ways for clay, skeet, trap and five-stand shoot within the beautiful setting of Dawson County’s Appalachian Mountains. Learn how to shoot safely with Etowah’s shooting veterans, who teach classes to both individuals and groups. The Etowah Valley Mambas, a Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) youth shotgun team, one of only 57 teams nationwide, teaches ages sixth through 12th grades how to develop shooting skills and compete in clay shooting sports. In addition, Etowah sponsors charity events, sporting clay tournaments and clay shooting fundraisers year-round. Staff are veterans clay shooters, so you’re in good hands. Etowah Valley Sporting Clays is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Sunday. 

The post Dawsonville and the Georgia Mountains Offer Year-round Adventures appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA— FEBRUARY 2024—Located just 30 minutes northwest of the Atlanta perimeter on I-75/575, Woodstock is an unexpected destination offering visitors authentic and organic experiences all year round. From interesting dining experiences and unique shopping options to cooking classes, wine tastings, family friendly events and more, there’s always a reason to visit Woodstock, no matter the season. Here’s a taste of what there is to experience in Woodstock throughout the year. 

Unique experiences

Create something delicious! Join the team at Leaning Ladder Olive Oil for an unforgettable cooking class experience. Perfect for a couple’s date night or a fun outing with friends, classes showcase accomplished chefs from the greater Atlanta area. From themed classes like “I Love Italy” and monthly wine tastings to classes centered around specific ingredients, participants are sure to enjoy an evening full of food, drinks and laughter. Leaning Ladder Olive Oil, 105 East Main Street, Suite 126, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 678-401-2609

Hone your craft or take up a new hobby. Organize a group outing and attend a class at Made Mercantile. Learn more about candle making, create one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry or create spa-like bath goodies. A variety of classes are offered by local makers monthly. Try one or try several. Made Mercantile, 8636 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 678-444-9134

Embrace the drama at Woodstock Arts Classes and Workshops. Taught by trained instructors, these classes and workshops introduce children, teens and adults to the exciting world of the arts, both performing and visual. Through a varied curriculum, students explore the craft of acting, singing, dancing, improvisation, drawing and/or portfolio development and learn the discipline of the arts as they develop their unique creative voices. Classes and workshops are designed to meet students where they are, regardless of prior experience or skill level. 734 Reeves St, Woodstock, GA 30188; (678) 494-4251

Shop locally for a souvenir to remember the visit. Delight in local, independently owned shops in downtown Woodstock. Discover antiques, browse two independent bookstores, peruse local art and jewelry, find home décor, clothing and more while taking in the charm of downtown Woodstock. Additionally, Woodstock is home to Atlanta’s closest and newest outlet shopping experience. The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta offers a walkable, attractive landscaped outdoor environment. Shop such brands as Coach, Columbia Sportswear, Kate Spade, Michael Kors and Nike, among many others. A food court and two full-service restaurants round out this shopping mecca. Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, 915 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 678-540-7040

Savor the season

No matter when you visit Woodstock, mouth-watering experiences await. Celebrate a special occasion or make an ordinary evening extraordinary with tasting events at The Stout Brothers Woodstock Beer Market. Located in the heart of downtown Woodstock, The Stout Brothers offers outstanding brews in a fun atmosphere while also providing a boutique grocery with grab-and-go food options. From sake tastings to beer and pretzel tastings to trivia nights and cider tastings, there’s always something fun happening at this local favorite. The Stout Brothers, 240 Chambers Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 678-909-5678. 

Finish the day at one of downtown Woodstock’s dining establishments like TENKU Sushi Lounge which creates a memorable moment with innovative cuisine set against a complementary ambiance. 380 Chambers Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-672-6334

Save the date

It’s always a good time to visit Woodstock. Save the date for these year-round special events. Celebrate the spring holidays (think Mardi Gras, Saint Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo and more continuing throughout the year) with the Woodstock Pub Crawl Series. These Saturday pub crawls feature food and drink specials at downtown Woodstock establishments, giving businesses an opportunity to showcase their offerings.

Round up your shopping crew and check out  Sip + Shop happening in March and again in November. This late evening ticketed event allows participants the opportunity to take advantage of specials and goodies offered by retailers in Downtown Woodstock. Shoppers will also enjoy live music along the sidewalks, dining specials at downtown restaurants and more. The 2024 dates for this fun event are March 21 and November 21.

Every Saturday, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, April 20 – December 28, 2024, the Woodstock Farm Fresh Market, located on Market Street in Downtown Woodstock, showcases a variety of locally grown products spanning various cultures. It’s a can’t-miss celebration of fresh food and local love.

Move to the rhythm of the music. April through July, the Lantern Series takes place on the Woodstock Arts Event Green in Downtown Woodstock and features world-renowned artists. The series consists of different genres, backgrounds and ideologies in hopes of bringing the community together to find a literal and figurative common ground.

For a fun evening with the family, check out Woodstock’s Family Fun Night Series. This Thursday evening theme night is all about family fun, costumes, shopping, dining out and experiencing the family friendly atmosphere of the city–with activities for children happening throughout downtown, including a free movie to top off the evening on the event green. The kids are sure to be talking about this night for months! With dates on the third Thursday of May, June, July and August, be sure to catch one or all.

Set your tastebuds for a real treat come fall. Mark your calendar for Taste of Woodstock happening every September at the Woodstock Arts Event Green. This popular annual event is the perfect opportunity to experience Woodstock’s thriving dining scene. Area restaurants will serve delicious tastes of their best dishes in a variety of categories. Admission is free.

Get in the holiday spirit with the Christmas Jubilee and Parade of Lights the first weekend of December each year. An evening parade on December 7,2024 rings in the holiday season with impressive lighted floats, local bands and an appearance from Santa Claus himself.  Quickly becoming one of the region’s most popular Christmas parades, the Parade of Lights is truly spectacular.  After the parade, guests enjoy more fun at the Jubilee Festival where they can visit with Santa, participate in holiday crafts, readings of The Polar Express and food and drink for all ages. Christmas Jubilee and Parade of Lights

For a quick view of annual events, click HERE. For updated weekly events throughout the year, go to VisitWoodstockGA.com/events. Viewers can filter by map area, date/month and event categories.

The post Woodstock, Georgia, Offers Year Round Events and Authentic Experiences for All Ages appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

Located just east of Augusta, Georgia, and west of Columbia, South Carolina, is Thoroughbred Country, an area of sprawling countryside, wide open greenspaces and endless opportunities to explore nature. Bordered by Interstates 20, 26 and 95, this region offers a plethora of unique experiences including equestrian events, historical sites, picturesque downtowns with unique shops, restaurants, museums and one-of-a-kind lodging options.

Sometimes referred to as “Undiscovered South Carolina,” Thoroughbred Country consists of Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg and Barnwell counties. It’s no secret horses take the top prize in Thoroughbred Country. From polo matches to harness races and steeplechases, there is ample opportunity to see the horses in action, no matter the season.

Take in a match most any day of the week at Aiken Polo Club. Matches are held on historic Whitney Field, in the heart of Aiken’s historic horse district. Games are open to the public and typically last an hour and a half to two hours. Sunday matches start at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The spring season runs from April through mid-June while the fall season runs from September to mid-November. Spectators are encouraged to call the hotline before heading to the field, especially if conditions are wet or the weather is threatening. Whether tailgating or enjoying the games at the Pavilion (separate charge), there’s no doubt you will find yourself immersed in history and tradition at Whitney Field. Aiken Polo Club, 420 Mead Avenue, Aiken, South Carolina, 29801, 803-643-3611.

Don’t miss the thrilling Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field, March 1-2.  An Eventing “Showcase” is a unique version of eventing competition that condenses the traditional country-side eventing environment into a spectator friendly venue. The showcase format allows the general public the chance to be up close and personal, right next to the galloping lanes and massive fences, and experience the thrilling sport of eventing in a whole new way. This equestrian triathlon held in March presents a prime opportunity for top eventing riders to kick start their competition season, and to welcome the public to an exciting fast-paced equestrian event. Bruce’s Field at Aiken Horse Park. 931 Powderhouse Road, Southeast, Aiken, South Carolina 29803; 803-830-7077

Looking for more adrenaline pumping events? Mark your calendar for the Aiken Trials. Established in 1942, this time-honored tradition is the first leg of Aiken’s Triple Crown. This fun, family friendly event draws upwards of 10,000 spectators each year for tailgating, vendors and competitive racing. This year’s event will be held March 16 at the Aiken Training Track. Aiken Trials, 538 Two Notch Road, Southeast, Aiken, South Carolina, 29801; 803-648-4631

It’s not springtime without a steeplechase! The tradition of steeplechasing continues in Aiken at the Aiken Spring Steeplechase. Don’t miss this long-standing and beloved Aiken tradition featuring five exhilarating horse jumping races, a village of shops, live music and much more. The event takes place on March 23 at the Aiken Steeplechase Racecourse. This event, along with the Aiken Trials and the Pacers and Polo event, make up Aiken’s Triple Crown. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information on tickets, click here. Aiken Steeplechase Racecourse, 2020 Richland Avenue East, Aiken, South Carolina, 29801, 803-648-9641

The Annual Aiken Horse Show brings more equestrian experiences for all to enjoy. Whether you are an equestrian, an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff or simply looking for a new experience, you are sure to enjoy this long-running horse show. Started in 1916, the Aiken Horse Show remains one of the most prominent equestrian competitions in Aiken. Held on the grounds of Hitchcock Woods, the largest privately owned urban forest in the country, nature lovers will delight in this spectacular setting. The 2,100 acres and 70 miles of sandy trails at Hitchcock Woods have been a haven for pedestrian and equestrian users since the early 1800s. Happening March 29-31, this year marks the 108th Annual show.

While there are many equestrian events in the area, Thoroughbred Country is so much more than horses. Home to a thriving arts scene, Aiken has a longstanding tradition of nurturing excellence in the arts. One event doing just that is Joye in Aiken. Founded in 2008, Joye in Aiken is named after Joye Cottage, a grand Gilded Age mansion that once hosted performances of some of the world’s greatest artists, attended by some of America’s wealthiest arts patrons. This week-long festival brings over 100 artists to the area performing at various venues throughout Aiken, offering world class musical experiences for all who attend. For schedule and ticket information, click here.

Fall brings more beloved events to Thoroughbred Country, one of which is the Blessing of the Hounds. The long-running tradition of the Blessing of the Hounds is held on the grounds of Hitchcock Woods each November. Organized by Aiken Hounds, the annual ceremony pays homage to the traditions of foxhunting, the history and heritage of Aiken’s hunting culture and the beloved and skilled hounds that make the sport so exciting. Local clergy members officiate, providing the blessing each year. This year will mark the 110th annual event. Open to the public. For dates, times and more, click here.

If you go

Visitors to the area will be pleased to find one-of-a-kind lodging options from bed and breakfasts and inns housed in historic homes to suites and cabins. With a wide range of dining options, there’s something for every palate. From seafood and barbecue to Southern-style cooking and international cuisine, the options are plentiful. Round out your stay by shopping at some of the best antique shops and galleries around.

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Each winter, the manatees take center stage at Blue Spring State Park, home of the largest spring on the river. The park is a designated manatee refuge and from mid-November through March, hundreds of them can be viewed from atop its spring overlook. The spring waters are closed to swimming and other water activities during this season, giving the beautiful marine mammals full access to relax and recharge for the winter.

Each year the Manatee Festival is highlighted by two days of entertainment, including music, children’s activities and more than 100 arts and crafts booths. Shuttles run to Blue Spring State Park for manatee viewing.

The park comprises more than 2,600 acres and swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving in the 73-degree spring waters is allowed throughout other times of the year. Canoeing, kayaking and boating are popular ways to enjoy the river, as are river boat tours. There are a number of boat rentals for those who want to explore on their own and guided trips are available, too. Time on the river offers views of turtles, gators, more than 200 species of birds and a lush, natural Florida landscape.

One of only 14 American Heritage Rivers in the country, the St. Johns River and the series of lakes it connects, make up the St. Johns River Blueway and the River of Lakes Heritage Corridor. Whether by canoe or kayak, river boat or house boat, exploring the river gives visitors access to the heartbeat of this central Florida region. And reasons to return again and again.

In addition to the Manatee festival, a full slate of events is set each year, many centered around West Volusia’s waters, wildlife and culture, offering even more reasons to celebrate!

The waterways are just one reason to visit the West Volusia region, a destination with stories to tell, history to share and fun to have. Nestled between Orlando and Daytona, West Volusia encompasses fourteen communities with an eclectic collection of accommodations and attractions. The authenticity travelers are looking for is here. From top-rated downtown DeLand to the scenic St. Johns River, this is real Florida. And what variety it offers! Start your journey at www.VisitWestVolusia.com.

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