Watkinsville, GA's wonderful 4th

The 4th of July celebration in Watkinsville, GA kicks off on Friday evening with First Friday on Main featuring a free art tour from 6:00-9:00 p.m. The Art Tour includes OCAF (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) on School St., Art Masters Gallery & Framing on N. Main, Sunshine Village, Main Street Gallery, C. Allee Studio & Gallery, Chappelle Gallery on S. Main, Emma Laura, Weber Photography & Design and Side Street Beads. There will be a shuttle to ease your trip around town, just park at Rocket Field a couple of blocks behind the Eagle Tavern. Restaurants that will be open are Chicken Express, Jittery Joe's coffee, Girasole's, Mirko Pasta and Barberitos.

Children won't be left out as there is Kid's Zone at the Courthouse Annex downtown where they'll be entertained with a sing-a-long with Happy Sam, Sidewalk Chalk, Bubbles and free rickshaw rides.

But get ready for the 4th!

From 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Eagle Tavern will be an Old Fashioned Fourth of July!

There will be free watermelon, popcorn, lemonade and cotton candy. Also available will be bar-b-cue and ice cream.

Kids can enjoy sidewalk chalk, a petting zoo, bubble blowing, dress up, coloring contest, hay rides, city police car and a fire truck.

If you're feeling a bit brave, sign up for the watermelon eating contest at high noon! Just how much can you eat?

Just to keep you from being bored, the James Hunter band will provide music.

And, to top it all off, is the Van Morrison Tribute Concert at Ashford Manor. Sorry, this one's not free, but adult tickets are only $15.00. Bring your blankets & chairs, a picnic and enjoy a summer concert on the lawn. For more concert information contact Ashford Manor at (706)769-2633 or amconcerts.com.

Have a safe and happy Fourth!