Here's a day-by-day guide to the 2008 Cherry Blossom Festival:
FRIDAY, MARCH 28
Cherry Blossom Festival Ribbon-Cutting and Opening Ceremony Noon, Miller Lite Central City Park, Coca Cola Entertainment Stage. Celebrate the opening of the 26th annual Cherry Blossom Festival. The ceremony will include local and visiting dignitaries. Free.
Uniform Appreciation Day Noon-6 p.m. Miller Lite Central City Park. All military, firefighters, police and sheriff personnel wear your uniform to the park and participate in chances to win tickets to select Cherry Blossom Festival events. Register at the table in front of the Coca Cola Entertainment Stage for the prize drawings that will be held at 2:30, 4:30 and 6 p.m.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. 30 minute shows. 8 p.m. feeding. Miller Lite Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. The tigers will be present between shows for public viewing during park hours for 10 days. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Cherry Pink Welcome Luncheon at Central Fellowship 12:30 p.m. pickup at Central City Park Round Building. 1 p.m. luncheon at Central Fellowship Baptist Church, 8460 Hawkinsville Road. Free transportation, luncheon and entertainment provided by the students of Central Fellowship Christian Academy. Limited to the first 24 callers to 788-6909 or 747-8391. Free.
Mr. Masaji, Candy Master 2-6 p.m. Miller Lite Central City Park. Masaji Terasawa performs amesaiku, the 2,000-year-old art form of candy making in front of Cherry Market.
Gospel Concert 7 p.m. Grand Opera House, 651 Mulberry St. This concert features the best of the Middle Georgia gospel groups and choirs with a program of praise and admiration. Call 751-7429 for more information. Buses welcome. Free with a 2008 Festival pin. Presented by Lewis Engineering Consultancy.
Ocmulgee National Monument Lantern Light Tours 7 and 8:30 p.m. 1207 Emery Highway. Experience a ranger-led, one-mile walk among the ancient Ocmulgee Mounds, ending with a view of downtown Macon at night. 752-8257. $5 adults, children free. Presented by the Ocmulgee National Monument. Cherry Blossom Gala Ball 8 p.m.-midnight, Macon City Auditorium. Dancing, dining and heavy hors d’ oeuvres, provided by Macon’s finest restaurants, will accompany complimentary cocktails. Music by Macon favorites The Grapevine. Reservations can be made by phone, 751-7415, or online at www.cherryblossom.com. $50 per person with tables for 10 available. Balcony seating, $10 per person. Presented by Bank of America and Spa Medical/Vein Specialist of the South LLC.
Allman Brothers Tribute Band: Midnight Riders 8-11 p.m. Miller Lite Central City Park. Taking their name from an Allman Brothers song, the Midnight Riders have the same sound as the classic ’70s rock band. Free.
SATURDAY, MARCH 29
Pink Pancake Breakfast 7:30-10:30 a.m., food tent at Central City Park. All-you-can-eat breakfast where local firefighters serve visitors pink pancakes, sausage, coffee and juice. $5 per plate, all proceeds from this event benefit the American Cancer Society. Free parking. Presented by the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department and Kroger.
Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascension 7:30 a.m. Macon Downtown Airport, Herbert Smart Field.
Cherry Blossom Balloon Fest and Airshow Gates open at noon, airshow starts at 3 p.m. Macon Downtown Airport, Herbert Smart Field. Balloon Glow at dusk. Bring blankets, chairs, etc. No coolers or pets. Hot air balloon tether rides, airplane rides, military fly-bys, special appearances by 2007 Red Bull Air Racing champion Mike Mangold, the Japanese drummers and Budweiser Clydesdales. Food and merchandise vendors. $5, children under 12 free. Presented by Atlanta Gas Light and Day Jet.
Kids Cherrydazzle Noon-6 p.m. throughout Central City Park. A day of free fun in the park just for the kids featuring Home Depot how-to-build kits and aprons, Petals the Poodle and many other mascots and characters, Mike Fuller the Magician (11:30-12:30 p.m.), activities such as cookie decorating and poodle coloring and prize drawings.
Pet Fashion Show 1-2:30 p.m. Central City Park, Coca-Cola Entertainment Stage. Registration from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $25 prize to each first place category winner. Categories include Best Dressed, Prettiest in Pink, Pet/Owner Look-a-Like, Most Unusual and Best Trick. 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Pet trivia. Presented by FURever Friends Humane Society.
Motorcycles Display 12:30-2:30 p.m. Central City Park. After a scavenger hunt, motorcycle enthusiasts around the state will be at Central City Park with more than 100 bikes on display. Free. Presented by ABATE of Georgia.
Mr. Masaji, Candy Master 11 a.m-6 p.m. Central City Park. Masaji Terasawa performs amesaiku, the 2,000-year-old art form of candy making in front of Cherry Market.
Macon Amateur Radio Club Special Event Station 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Bibb County Fireman’s Training Center, 5522 Tinker Drive. Join members of the Macon Amateur Radio Club as they promote the Cherry Blossom Festival by contacting ham radios across the United States using shortwave radio. Visitors welcome. Call 474-8619 for more information. Free.
Dixie Disc Dog Championship 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Central City Park. The championships feature world class Frisbee Dogs from around the country vying for the Dixie Disc Dog Championship title and a share of prizes and trophies. A beginner division is available with registration beginning at 9 a.m. for a $5 fee. Free. Presented by the Greater Atlanta Dog and Disc Club in association with WOOF Sports USA.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. 30 minute shows. 8 p.m. feeding, Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. The tigers will be present between shows for public viewing during park hours for 10 days. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Cherry Blossom Bed Race 1 p.m. Corner of Cherry and Third streets. The beds not only compete for the best time, but also will be judged as the fastest, funniest and most original, along with a judge’s choice award. Free. Presented by Walthall Oil Co.
Cherry Blossom Lawnmower Grand Prix 2 p.m. Third Street Park from Mulberry to Poplar streets. Watch professional lawn mower drivers race for a $500 grand prize, enjoy a beer garden and enter your own decorated lawn mower into the Ugly Lawn Mower Pageant for a $100 grand prize. End the day with dinner and a movie during a free screening of “Talladega Nights” at the historic Cox Capitol Theatre. For more information, visit coxcapitoltheatre.com or call 257-6391. Free. Presented by Cox Communications.
Picnic and Pops 5 p.m., atop Coleman Hill, Bond Street. Bring a picnic and blanket and enjoy a free concert overlooking Macon. The Middle Georgia Concert Band will be the entertainment for this family event. Free. Presented by Colonial Bank.
Evening of Worship and Praise 5 p.m. Martha Bowman Church Christian Life Center, 500 Bass Road. Featuring the Martha Bowman choir and orchestra, soloists, multimedia and more. Gourmet coffee service available from Joshua Cup Coffee Co. For more information, call 477-4188, ext 111. Free; call-ahead seating is strongly recommended for groups. Presented by Martha Bowman United Methodist Church.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Birthday Party 6 p.m. Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Wish Nina, Madras, and Tamara a happy birthday. Children are encouraged to bring a birthday card to hang on the fence for the tigers to read. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia, Georgia Farm Bureau and 13-WMAZ.
Country Night Featuring Foxx City Band and Wichita 5:30-11 p.m. Miller Lite Central City Park. Foxx City will start the show at 5:30 p.m. and Wichita will perform at 8 p.m. Free. Presented by Security Bank and Fairfield Financial.
Ocmulgee National Monument Lantern Light Tours 7 and 8:30 p.m. 1207 Emery Hwy. Experience a ranger-led, one-mile walk among the ancient Ocmulgee Mounds, ending with a view of downtown Macon at night. 752-8257. $5 adults, children are free. Presented by the Ocmulgee National Monument.
Evening of Russian Dance 8 p.m. Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College. A special performance featuring two dynamic groups from Macon’s sister city of Ulyanovsk, Russia. The performance will benefit children in Russian orphanages. For more information, call 751-7429.
SUNDAY, MARCH 30
Cherry Blossom Opening Worship Service 10:45 a.m. Riverside United Methodist Church. Join us for a Sunday church service in honor of the Cherry Blossom Festival with festival dignitaries and international visitors. Free.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show Noon, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. 30 minute shows. 8 p.m. feeding, Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. The tigers will be present between shows for public viewing during park hours for 10 days. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Mr. Masaji, Candy Master Noon-6 p.m. Miller Lite Central City Park. Masaji Terasawa performs amesaiku, the 2,000-year-old art form of candy making in front of Cherry Market.
Amazing Animal Athlete Dog Shows 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Central City Park. Some of the best Disc Dog talent in the world will perform several freestyle demonstrations. Featuring former World Champions Melissa Heeter and Ariel Asah and her state champion dog Ariel Ally. Free. Presented by the Greater Atlanta Dog and Disc Club in association with WOOF Sports USA.
Cherry Blossom Lantern Lighting Ceremony 2 p.m. Third and Mulberry streets. Celebrate international friendship as dignitaries of the festival’s featured countries light the ceremonial lantern located in Third Street Park. Free. Presented by Wesleyan College.
Geico’s Cherry Blossom Festival Parade 3 p.m. Cherry and Mulberry streets. Colorful floats, military units, marching bands, costumed performers and celebrity grand marshals. Take a seat on Cherry or Mulberry streets to see the excitement from the front row. Free.
Mercer/Macon Symphony Youth Orchestra Concert 5 p.m. First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 682 Mulberry St. Forty area high school students under the direction of Kei Harada and Adrian Gnam, artistic director. Call 746-3223 for more information. Free.
Evening of Worship and Praise 5 p.m. Martha Bowman Church Christian Life Center, 500 Bass Road. Featuring the Martha Bowman choir and orchestra, soloists, multimedia and more. Gourmet coffee service available from Joshua Cup Coffee Co. For more information, call 477-4188, ext 111. Free; call-ahead seating is strongly recommended for groups. Presented by Martha Bowman United Methodist Church.
Cherry Blossom Kaleidoscope of Cultures 7:30 p.m. Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College. The festival’s honored countries, Sweden, Japan, Republic of China (Taiwan), Russia and the United Kingdom, will take the stage to share performances unique to their culture. Free with a 2008 Festival pin.
Oldies Night Featuring Bone and Holmes 6-9 p.m. Central City Park. Come jam in the park to soul act Bone and Holmes. Free.
Ocmulgee National Monument Lantern Light Tours 7 and 8:30 p.m. 1207 Emery Highway. Experience a ranger-led, one-mile walk among the ancient Ocmulgee Mounds, ending with a view of downtown Macon at night. 752-8257. $5 adults, children free. Presented by the Ocmulgee National Monument.
MONDAY, MARCH 31
Grandparents Day in the Park 4-6 p.m. Miller Lite Central City Park. Grandparents bring your grandkids for a special afternoon. Enjoy Cherry Blossom Bingo from 4-5 in the food tent, and check out the specials from the food vendors that were created especially for grandparents and their grandchildren.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. 30 minute shows. 8 p.m. feeding, Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. The tigers will be present between shows for public viewing during park hours for 10 days. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Third Street Park Festivities Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Third Street Park. Visitors can enjoy concerts and performances, free soft drinks from Coca-Cola and Cherries and Cream ice cream from Dairyland Inc. Also, enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides. Free. Presented by Wachovia Bank.
Cherry Blossom Organ Concerts Noon, Mulberry Street United Methodist Church. The Macon Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will present a 30-minute organ concert especially for guests of the Cherry Blossom Festival. Steve Godowns, organist from Houston, Texas, will be featured. Call 745-8601 for more information. Free.
Apron Decorating Contest 2-4 p.m. Central City Park. $100 prizes for the category winners which include Most Unique, Judges Choice and Best Theme. $5 per entry, register at the park from 2-3 p.m. in front of the food tent.
Blues Night Featuring Big Mike and the Booty Papas 6-9 p.m. Central City Park. Don’t miss local favorite Big Mike and the Booty Papas for a fun-filled evening of live blues music. Free.
Cherry Blossom American Ballroom Classic 7:30 p.m. Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College. Presentation features all of the popular ballroom and Latin dances as seen on “Dancing with the Stars.” 743-9392. $10 per person or $8 for groups of 10 or more. Presented by American Ballroom Classic.
Hay House Behind the Scenes Tour 5:30-7 p.m. Hay House. In-depth tour of all seven levels of the Hay House including the cupola and its catwalk. For more information on the tours, call 742-8155. $20, ages 8 and up, reservations required.
Festival of Music for Organ and Brass 7:30 p.m. St. Joseph Catholic Church, 830 Poplar St. Celebrate the Feast of St. Joseph, patron saint of the church, with the Colony IV Brass along with Nelda Chapman as the organist and Robert Sumowski on timpani. For more information, call 745-1631. Free.
TUESDAY, APRIL 1
Pink in the Park Central City Park. The best-dressed person in pink also will win prizes so be sure to dress the part. The Pink-a-riffic contests will take place at 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the stage. Vendors also will be competing for pinkest prizes and festival guests can cast their vote.
Shoe Decorating Contest 2 p.m. adults, 4:30 p.m. children. As part of Pink in the Park day, bring your Crocs, flip flops or tennis shoes to be judged in front of the food tent. Categories include most original, judge’s choice and the most pink-a-riffic pair. $5 per category. Presented by Taylor Trophy Company.
Jack Golden Environmental Education Show 10:30 a.m. Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College. Using juggling, slapstick, jokes, song and audience participation, the performers teach students facts about litter as well as rewarding and important ways they can directly contribute to their home, school and community environments. For more information, call 751-7427. Free. Presented by Georgia Power.
A Taste of the South 10-11 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. general tours; 11:15 a.m. and 1 p.m. lunch sittings, Garden Clubs Center, 730 College St. Enjoy a traditional Southern lunch and old-fashioned Southern hospitality in the gracious surroundings designed in 1910 by Neel Reid, a renowned architect who started his distinguished career in Macon. Please call 742-0921 for more information or reservations. $15 lunch tour; $5 general tour.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. 30 minute shows. 8 p.m. feeding, Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. The tigers will be present between shows for public viewing during park hours for 10 days. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Third Street Park Festivities 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Third Street Park. Visitors can enjoy concerts and performances, free soft drinks from Coca-Cola and Cherries and Cream ice cream from Dairyland Inc. Also, enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides. Free. Presented by Wachovia Bank.
Cherry Blossom Organ Concerts Noon, Mulberry Street United Methodist Church. The Macon Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will present a 30-minute organ concert especially for guests of the Cherry Blossom Festival. Nicholas Bowden, organist from Atlanta, will be featured. Please call 745-8601 for more information. Free.
Hay House Behind the Scenes Tour 5:30-7 p.m. Hay House. In-depth tour of all seven levels of the Hay House including the cupola and its catwalk. For more information on the tours, call 742-8155. $20, ages 8 and up, reservations required.
The Circle Unbroken: Gullah, Gospel and Jonathan Green 7 p.m. Emmanuel Church, 621 Foster Road. Vineville Academy and community choirs present a musical drama based on the Sea Island Gullah culture. For more information, please call 751-6723. $2. Presented by Vineville Academy.
Margaritaville Night Featuring A1A 6-10 p.m. Central City Park. Visitors will feel as though they are on an island with Jimmy Buffet as they are entertained by the music of A1A. Enjoy the music as well as the frozen pink margaritas. Free.
Army Grounds Forces Band Concert 7:30 p.m. Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College. Join us for a dynamic performance of rousing patriotic and popular music performed by the Army Ground Forces Band. Free.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2
Twins Day in the Park 4:30-6 p.m. Central City Park. Prizes will be given away in several categories including Oldest, Youngest, Look Most Alike, Look Least Alike, Pink-a-licious, Largest Set of Multiples, and a category open to everyone for people who are Dressed Most Alike. Free; register at the Coca Cola Entertainment Stage by 4 p.m. Presented by Park Community Federal Credit Union with special thanks to Taylor Trophy Company.
A Taste of the South 10-11 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. general tours; 11:15 a.m. and 1 p.m. lunch sittings, Garden Clubs Center, 730 College St. Enjoy a traditional Southern lunch and old-fashioned Southern hospitality in the gracious surroundings designed in 1910 by Neel Reid, a renowned architect who started his distinguished career in Macon. Please call 742-0921 for more information or reservations. $15 lunch tour; $5 general tour.
Jack Golden Environmental Education Show 10:30 a.m. Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College. Using juggling, slapstick, jokes, song and audience participation, the performers teach students facts about litter as well as rewarding and important ways they can directly contribute to their home, school and community environments. For more information, call 751-7427. Free. Presented by Georgia Power.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. 30 minute shows. 8 p.m. feeding, Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. The tigers will be present between shows for public viewing during park hours for 10 days. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Third Street Park Festivities 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Third Street Park. Visitors can enjoy concerts and performances, free soft drinks from Coca-Cola and Cherries and Cream ice cream from Dairyland Inc. Also, enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides. Free. Presented by Wachovia Bank.
Cherry Blossom Organ Concerts Noon, Mulberry Street United Methodist Church. The Macon Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will present a 30-minute organ concert especially for guests of the Cherry Blossom Festival. Charles Higgs, organist from Macon, will be featured. Please call 745-8601 for more information. Free.
Tour of Historic First Presbyterian Church 1-3 p.m. 682 Mulberry St. Continuous tours leave every 15 minutes. For more information call 746-3223. Free.
A Bit of Macon’s Own 5:30-9:00 p.m. Central City Park. Experience the sounds of classic rock during this new concert for 2008. Interference will get everyone on their feet until Mainline takes the stage to entertain with original music and classic covers. Free.
The Circle Unbroken: Gullah, Gospel and Jonathan Green 7 p.m. Emmanuel Church, 621 Foster Road. Vineville Academy and community choirs present a musical drama based on the Sea Island Gullah culture. For more information, please call 751-6723. $2. Presented by Vineville Academy.
Rodrigo Rodrigez in Concert 7 p.m. Vineville Baptist Church, 2591 Vineville Ave. Christian guitarist Rodrigo Rodrigez will delight and inspire with music that touches the heart and the soul. For more information, call 743-9366. Free.
THURSDAY, APRIL 3
Discount Day in the Park 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Central City Park. If you are looking for specials on food and drinks don’t miss this day in the park. Look out for the pink shopping bags throughout the park with the listings of the specials created just for the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Jack Golden Environmental Education Show 10:30 a.m. Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College. Using juggling, slapstick, jokes, song and audience participation, the performers teach students facts about litter as well as rewarding and important ways they can directly contribute to their home, school and community environments. For more information, call 751-7427. Free. Presented by Georgia Power.
A Taste of the South 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Garden Clubs Center, 730 College St. Enjoy old-fashioned Southern hospitality in the gracious surroundings designed in 1910 by Neel Reid, a renowned architect who started his distinguished career in Macon. The Federated Garden Clubs of Macon holds exhibits that include flower arrangements, antique linens and artwork. Call 742-0921 for more information. $5.
Tour of Historic First Presbyterian Church 10 a.m.-noon. 682 Mulberry St. Continuous tours leave every 15 minutes. For more information call 746-3223. Free.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. 30 minute shows. 8 p.m. feeding, Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. The tigers will be present between shows for public viewing during park hours for 10 days. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Third Street Park Festivities 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Third Street Park. Visitors can enjoy concerts and performances, free soft drinks from Coca-Cola and Cherries and Cream ice cream from Dairyland Inc. Also, enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides. Free. Presented by Wachovia Bank.
Cherry Blossom Organ Concerts Noon, Mulberry Street United Methodist Church. The Macon Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will present a 30-minute organ concert especially for guests of the Cherry Blossom Festival. Timothy Hall, organist from Savannah, will be featured. Please call 745-8601 for more information. Free.
Cherry Blossom Festival Fashion Show and Luncheon Noon, Anderson Conference Center at Goodwill. Enjoy a delicious meal from Catering by Edgar’s as you catch up on the latest fashions. Mark Ballard will emcee the show, and the celebrity models will be coordinated by Tosha Walden in clothing provided by the Macon Mall. $30; tickets can be purchased at the Cherry Blossom Festival’s gift shop, 577 Mulberry St. or visit www.cherryblossom.com. Presented by Macon Mall.
United States Air Force Band of the Reserve Porter Auditorium, Wesleyan College. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show begins at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy an evening of magnificent stirring jazz and patriotic music. For more information, call 751-7429. Free. Presented by Osan-Petroleum Company.
The Circle Unbroken: Gullah, Gospel and Jonathan Green 7 p.m. Emmanuel Church, 621 Foster Road. Vineville Academy and community choirs present a musical drama based on the Sea Island Gullah culture. For more information, please call 751-6723. $2. Presented by Vineville Academy.
College Night Featuring Mighty McFly 5-11 p.m. Central City Park. College students from all over Middle Georgia can party ’80s style with a $2 beer special. Local bands will start the party until 9 p.m. when Mighty McFly takes the stage. Free.
Bob Lee Smith/Susan McDuffie Concert and Dinner 6:30 p.m. City Club of Macon, 355 First St. Enjoy dinner and an evening of music with Bob Lee Smith as vocalist and Susan McDuffie on the piano. Non-club members are welcome to attend. Please contact the City Club of Macon for reservations, 738-9000. Reservation only.
FRIDAY, APRIL 4
Volunteer Appreciation Day 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Central City Park. All Cherry Blossom Festival volunteers come to the park and enjoy a day especially for you. Prize drawings will take place at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the stage.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. 30 minute shows. 8 p.m. feeding, Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. The tigers will be present between shows for public viewing during park hours for 10 days. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Founders Day Celebration and Third Street Park Festivities 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Third Street Park. Take your place in Downtown Macon for a grand celebration under a canopy of cherry blossom trees in honor of William A. Fickling Sr., the man who discovered the first Yoshino cherry tree in Macon, and Carolyn Crayton, the founder of the Cherry Blossom Festival. A Wal-Mart cake will be served at 11:30 and visitors can enjoy concerts and performances, free soft drinks from Coca-Cola and Cherries and Cream ice cream from Dairyland Inc. Also, enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides. Free. Presented by Wachovia Bank.
Cherry Blossom Organ Concerts Noon, Mulberry Street United Methodist Church. The Macon Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will present a 30-minute organ concert especially for guests of the Cherry Blossom Festival. Jolene Davis, organist from Athens, will be featured. Please call 745-8601 for more information. Free.
Party with a Purpose Featuring KJ-52 and Sevenglory 7 p.m. Ingleside Baptist Church. The night of fun and fellowship will be highlighted with performances by KJ-52 and Sevenglory. Youth groups from around Middle Georgia can experience the hottest Contemporary Christian groups live during this fantastic concert event. Visit www.cherryblossom.com for tickets or more information. $12 advance, $15 at the door. Presented by Ingram Entities.
Boot Scootin’ Boogies and Casino Night 8 p.m. Edgar B Wilson Convention Center at the Centreplex. Music by Terry Lee and the GT’s. Partygoers will enjoy black jack, craps, roulette, Caribbean stud, three card poker, and Texas hold ’em. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for guests to bring picnic baskets and their own beverages. The casino will open and the band will take the stage at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online, at the Cherry Blossom Festival Gift Shop, 577 Cherry Street, or at the door. $35 per person or tables of ten.
Motown in the Park Featuring Papa Sol 8-11 p.m. Miller Lite Central City Park. Papa-Sol plays hits from the vintage years of the 1950s to now and will keep old-time rock and rollers dancing all night. Free.
Georgia Music Hall of Fame Live at Five 5-8 p.m. 200 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. The popular happy hour concert series takes on Macon’s First Friday, a downtown community and business event collaboration sponsored by NewTown Macon. Live at Five showcases a diverse offering of artists from across the state. 751-3334. $5 members, $7 general public.
Ocmulgee National Monument Lantern Light Tours 7 and 8:30 p.m. 1207 Emery Highway. Experience a ranger-led, one-mile walk among the ancient Ocmulgee Mounds, ending with a view of downtown Macon at night. 752-8257. $5 adults, children are free. Presented by the Ocmulgee National Monument.
SATURDAY, APRIL 5
Annual Cherry Blossom 15K and 5K 8 a.m. 15K, 8:30 a.m. 5K, April 5. The races begin and end at Wesleyan College and run through some of the most notable Cherry Blossom neighborhoods in Macon. Additional information and registration available at www.cherryblossom.com or call 751-7429. Presented by Capital City Bank.
Pink Pancake Breakfast 7:30-10:30 a.m., food tent at Central City Park. All-you-can-eat breakfast where local firefighters serve visitors pink pancakes, sausage, coffee and juice. $5 per plate, all proceeds from this event benefit the American Cancer Society. Free parking. Presented by the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department and Kroger.
12th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival Mustang & Ford Show 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Central City Park. Enjoy classic mustangs and a Ford car show, open to all Mustangs and Ford vehicles. For registration costs and information, please call 390-2986. Free. Presented by the Flag City Mustang Club.
Cherry Blossom Tour of Homes “Beds, Baths and Blossoms” 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Come tour some of Macon’s finest bedroom suites during this one day event. Visitors can get a sneak peek into beautifully decorated residences in the Barrington Hall subdivision. For more information call 751-7429. $20; tickets can be purchased online or at the Cherry Blossom Festival Gift Shop, 577 Mulberry St.
Cherry Blossom International Food Fair 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Third Street at Mulberry Street. Enjoy an international and American food court as well as entertainment provided by Ernest Rogers. This event is held in conjunction with the Mulberry Street Festival. Free. Presented by Piggly Wiggly.
Mulberry Street Festival 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mulberry Street. Enjoy Macon’s oldest and finest outdoor arts and crafts show. Take part in a gathering of more than 200 artists, artisans and crafters displaying and selling some of the finest arts and crafts from around the country. For more information, call the Middle Georgia Art Association, 744-9557. Free.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. 30 minute shows. 8 p.m. feeding, Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. The tigers will be present between shows for public viewing during park hours for 10 days. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Paws for a Cause 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Central City Park in the Pet Plaza. Bring your furry friend and enjoy obedience training, canine CPR and agility demonstrations. There also will be activities for the kids including a coloring corner, face painting and barking contests. Humane society groups will have on-site adoption centers. Free. Presented by FURever Friends.
Jerry Brown, the Traveling Showman, and his Monkey, DJango 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Miller Lite Central City Park. Fire-eating, stilt-walking and juggling are performed by the fantastic Jerry Brown as his pal Django assists him. Free.
Macon Music Player Autograph Session Noon-3 p.m. Miller Lite Central City, Long Long Building. Kick off the upcoming baseball season by meeting several of the Macon Music professional baseball players and get them to sign your memorabilia. Free.
Ice Cream Eating Contest 2 p.m. Miller Lite Central City, Coca Cola Entertainment Stage. Children 12 and under are invited to participate in this fun-filled ice cream eating contest provided by Becky and Van Penn. Free.
Sparks Will Fly 7:30 p.m. Wesleyan Porter Auditorium. Sparks do fly as the alumni chorus gathers for a homecoming reunion. Three generations meet head-to-head to endure teenage testing, parental limits, romance, a reunion of old friends all surrounded by the delightful, harmonious music of Sweet Georgia Sound Show Chorus. Please call 746-1221 for more information. $10. Presented by Sweet Adelines International, Sweet Georgia Sound Show Chorus.
'Diamonds to Denim' Benefit Concert 6 p.m., concert at 7:30 p.m. The Grand Opera House, 651 Mulberry St. Featuring Ronnie Milsap, Edward Eikner and Shane Bridges. All proceeds benefit the ARC. Please call 471-7336 for more information. $50, general admission; $100 preview party. Presented by the Advocacy Resource Center and the Middle Georgia Association of Realtors.
Coleman Hill Concert 9 p.m. Bond Street. Bring your blankets and picnic baskets for stirring patriotic music by the Middle Georgia Concert Band. Join us atop Coleman Hill as the concert is a counterpart to a dazzling fireworks display. Free.
Fireworks over Macon 9:30 p.m. Coleman Hill or the Annual Street Party. Spectacular fireworks, designed and choreographed by Zambelli Fireworks, light up the evening sky and celebrate the glory of Macon’s Cherry Blossom Festival. Presented by The Medical Center of Central Georgia.
Cherry Blossom Festival Street Party 6-11 p.m. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Mulberry to Poplar and Cherry streets, 5th Street to Cotton Avenue. Featuring Chris Cagle, Clarence Carter and Confunkshun. $5 advance, $10 day of event. Presented by Budweiser and Hooters.
Party in the Park Featuring Grason Hill and The Grapevine 5:30-11 p.m. Central City, Coca Cola Entertainment Stage. Come party in the park with Grayson Hill starting the show at 5:30 and local favorites the Grapevine taking the stage at 7:30. Free.
SUNDAY, APRIL 6
The Rev. Jimmy Waters Interdenominational Worship Service 9 a.m. Third Street Park. Join us for a special worship service under the cherry trees. Rain location is New Fellowship Baptist Church, 475 Church St. Free.
Closing Worship Service 11 a.m. Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, 957 Oglethorpe St. 745-0314 .
Mulberry Street Festival 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mulberry Street. Enjoy Macon’s oldest and finest outdoor arts and crafts show. Take part in a gathering of more than 200 artists, artisans and crafters displaying and selling some of the finest arts and crafts from around the country. For more information, call the Middle Georgia Art Association, 744-9557. Free.
Cherry Blossom International Food Fair 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Third Street at Mulberry Street. Enjoy an international and American food court as well as entertainment provided by Ernest Rogers. This event is held in conjunction with the Mulberry Street Festival. Free. Presented by Piggly Wiggly.
Tigers of India Bengal Tiger Family Show Noon, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. 30 minute shows, Central City Park, next to Levee Road. Witness the beauty and antics of the endangered Bengal tiger. Free. Presented by Central Bank of Georgia and Georgia Farm Bureau.
Jerry Brown, the Traveling Showman, and his Monkey, DJango 12:30-5:30 p.m. Miller Lite Central City Park. Fire-eating, stilt-walking and juggling are performed by the fantastic Jerry Brown as his pal Django assists him. Free.
Children’s Sidewalk Chalk 1 p.m. Third Street Park. Budding artists create colorful masterpieces among the cherry trees in Third Street Park. Plenty of chalk and other goodies will be provided for children of all ages. Free. Presented by McDonalds of Macon and Polka Dots on Forsyth.
Cherry Blossom Festival Children’s Parade 3 p.m. Cherry Street. A half-mile children’s parade featuring floats, music and walking units. The Children’s Parade runs from Cherry Plaza to the Cherry Blossom Festival headquarters on the corner of Cherry and New streets. Get your neighborhood, church or any group of children together to participate. Applications are online or may be picked up at 794 Cherry St., McDonalds, and Polka Dots on Forsyth. For more information call 751-7414. Free. Presented by McDonalds of Macon and Polka Dots on Forsyth.
Buddy Green in Concert 4 p.m. Vineville Methodist Church, 2045 Vineville Ave. Call 745-3331 for more information. Free. Presented by Music and the Arts at Vineville Methodist Church.
Ocmulgee National Monument Lantern Light Tours 7 and 8:30 p.m. 1207 Emery Highway. Experience a ranger-led, one-mile walk among the ancient Ocmulgee Mounds, ending with a view of downtown Macon at night. 752-8257. $5 adults, children are free. Presented by the Ocmulgee National Monument.
Bluegrass in the Park 2-6 p.m. Central City Park. Free.
Cherry Blossom Festival Grand Finale 5 p.m. Wesleyan College. Spread your picnic baskets and lawn chairs for an evening of family entertainment. Events will include live music, children’s activities, food vendors, and more! A grand fireworks show sends the festival out with a bang. The fireworks will culminate the event at 8:15 p.m. Free. Presented by Atlantic Southern Bank and Butler Automotive.
MONDAY, APRIL 7
Cherry Blossom Children’s Concert 7 p.m. Macon City Auditorium. The auditorium will be filled with children from the Bibb County public schools as they present music and dance featuring a 450 voice chorus, as well as instrumental specialty groups. Call 765-8595 for more information. Free. Presented by the Department of Fine Arts of the Bibb County Public Schools.
