Athens Area Weekend Roundup! November 22nd – 24th

Georgia Bulldogs vs. UMass Minutemen Game Day Weekend

It’s another sunny and beautiful weekend here in Athens, there will be another home game this Saturday as the Georgia Bulldogs face off against the UMass Minutemen at 12:45pm. There is lots of live music going this weekend, from Holiday Concerts to rock music, be sure to checkout events at Georgia Theater, Hendershots, and Buvez! If you wont be watching the game in Sanford Stadium be sure to check out all of our recommendations for places to watch the game in the Athens Area. We hope you enjoy the weekend!

To stay up to date on weekend events in Athens, make sure to check our blog and instagram every Friday for current Weekend Events.

Events in Athens…

Friday Events!

Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay and Taylor Swift: On November 22, 2024, the Morton Theatre will glow with the magic of Candlelight concerts, featuring live tributes to Coldplay and Taylor Swift. Experience Coldplay’s iconic melodies from 6:30 PM to 7:00 AM ($20–$75), followed by Taylor Swift’s greatest hits from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM ($15–$65). Enjoy a multi-sensory musical experience in a breathtaking candlelit setting. Don’t miss this unforgettable night!

Hairy Dog Meet and Greet: Head over to Creature Comforts this Friday for the opportunity to meet and take photos with Hairy Dog. He visits Creature Comforts every Friday for home game weekends, so get a freshly poured beer and a photo with the Georgia mascot. 

Hugh Hodgson Annual Holiday Concert: Kick off the holiday season with the Hugh Hodgson School of Music’s beloved Annual Holiday Concert! Taking place November 21–22, 2024, at Hodgson Concert Hall, this cherished tradition promises an evening of festive music and community spirit. From 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM, enjoy performances that will warm your heart and set the perfect tone for the season. Tickets are $10 for children and students, and $25 for adults. Underwritten by Bill Barstow in loving memory of Dolly Barstow, this concert is part of the Thursday Scholarship Performance series. Don’t miss this Thanksgiving week treat!

The Stews Live at Georgia Theatre: Don’t miss Athens’ own The Stews as they take the stage at the Georgia Theatre on November 22, 2024, at 8:00 PM. Known for their unique blend of indie rock, soulful melodies, and electrifying live performances, The Stews deliver catchy hooks, driving rhythms, and heartfelt lyrics that captivate every audience. Tickets are $31—secure your spot for a night of unforgettable music and energy from this rising local favorite!

Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation Holiday Market: Get into the holiday spirit at the OCAF Holiday Market in Watkinsville! Running from November 22–24, 2024, this festive market features locally made pottery, paintings, fiber art, jewelry, glasswork, woodwork, and more. Market hours are Friday (4–8 PM), Saturday (10 AM–5 PM), and Sunday (10 AM–3 PM). Admission is just $7, offering a perfect opportunity to shop unique, handcrafted gifts and support local artists.

Saturday Events!

Pet Treat Tasting:  Want to include your dog on your Saturday plans, bring your furry friend over to sample tasty treats at the Tractor Supply on Lexington Road at 12:30pm!

UGA vs. UMass: Come watch the Georgia Bulldogs face off the UMass Minutemen at Sanford Stadium at 12:45pm. If youre not watching the game at the Stadium, check out these places to watch it: Wire Park in Watkinsville has a large outdoor screen, with restaurants and a brewery, providing a great space to watch the game (with fun activities to keep the kids busy!). Creature Comforts is always a good go-to for finding game day fun, with large screens, beer on tap, and food trucks, its a good place to head to if you want to be near the stadium while watching the game. Georgia Theater Rooftop is also a good place to watch the game, there are great views of the downtown area, and lots of fun drinks! Paloma Park is an outdoor bar and restaurant with a jumbotron in a fun and lively setting.

Oak House Gala: An Evening for a Cause: Join the Oak House Distillery for a memorable evening of cocktails, light bites, and live music at the Oak House Gala, benefiting the Hurricane Helene Relief Fund. This special event takes place on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Tickets are $75, offering an opportunity to enjoy great company and entertainment while supporting an important cause.

Sunday Events!

Athens Lindy Night – Swing the Night Away: Step back in time and learn the classic swing dance, Lindy Hop, at Athens Lindy Night! Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a total beginner, this event is for everyone—no experience or partner needed. Start with a beginner lesson from 7 to 8 p.m., then enjoy social dancing from 8 to 10 p.m. It’s a perfect way to end your weekend with great music, fun vibes, and a touch of vintage charm!


Pop-Up Exhibition: Food and Community Through Art: Explore how food brings us together at this unique Pop-Up Exhibition, curated by Dr. Callan Steinmann’s Introduction to Museum Studies class. Featuring objects from the Georgia Museum of Art’s collection, this exhibit delves into the relationship between food and community. Stop by this Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. for a thought-provoking experience that’s both free and inspiring.