Forsyth’s ‘biggest festival in history’ is this weekend. What to know about parking, vendors
The Forsythias are in bloom and that means spring is in the air.
And what better way to kick off the sunny season than with the Forsythia Festival this weekend?
“This is the 36th year for the Forsythia Festival and our entire town is not only excited, but buzzing with activity,” said Rebecca Stone, president of Forsyth-Monroe County Chamber of Commerce.
The festival kicks off this Saturday, March 11 and continues until Sunday, March 12.
Stone said she is impressed with how much the festival has grown in the last few years and is eager for this year’s event.
“This year, we have a record number of new vendors while still being able to maintain all of the classic vendors that folks have come to see for so many years. 2023 is our biggest festival in history,” she said.
Here’s what to expect at this year’s Forsythia Festival:
Location, festival hours and rules
The festival will be held in the historic streets of the downtown Forsyth Square. On Saturday, March 11, the festival will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday, March 12, the hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Some things to remember:
The event is free and open to the public, but there are admission fees for some activities
The festival has a strict no pet policy
Where to park
Parking is available off of the square, in various lots. Some suggestions are parking lots at Forsyth United Methodist Church, Forsyth First Baptist Church, the county administration building, United Bank, City of Forsyth City Hall, Robins Financial Credit Union.
There will also be signs directing drivers to available parking.
Special events
Country Fest
The festival kicks off with a special concert featuring local country artists such as Logan Winkles, Eli Gambling, Caleb Walston and Caleb Dunn. It all starts Friday, March 10, from 7-10 p.m. The concert is free and open to the public. Attendees are urged to bring their own chairs, blankets and coolers, but nearby restaurants will be open as well.
Boy Scout Troop 51 Pancake Breakfast
On Saturday, March 11, begin your day with a delicious, homemade breakfast cooked by local Boy Scouts. The $8 all-you-can-eat breakfast will start at 7 a.m. at the Forsyth United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.
Forsythia Tailgate Toss
This family-fun activity will be held at Cannon Roofing (126 N. Jackson St.) on March 11 from 12-4 p.m. Call (478) 994-9239 to register today or register online.
Community Stage
Back by popular demand, this event will showcase individual and group performances. So, just sit back and watch or listen to Forsyth’s local talent as you stroll through the festival.
Arts and Craft Vendors
This year, the festival will celebrate its 30th year hosting an Arts and Craft Show with more than 100 vendors. You’ll see home décor, candles, jewelry and pottery.
Here are just a few vendors you can expect to see:
Beyond the Stars Boutique
Born Again Vintage
Datso Good Candles
Ember Moon & Co.
Ladybug Crafts
Macon Bubbles & More
Poured with a Purpose
Southern Roots Designs
Two Chicks & A Trailer LLC
Food Vendors
Local favorites such as Little Crumbsnatchers, Tara’s Poundcakes & Bakery, Wild Caught Seafood and Lisa’s Creperie will be in attendance, ready to satisfy your appetite.
Food Trucks and Stands
Because it wouldn’t be a festival without food trucks and other delicious food stands, here are some returning favorites and new faces:
Two Moo’s Coffee & Creamery
GA Jerk
Ginny’s Fudge And Nuts
Hobie Pop Kettle Corn
Queens Pretzel Palace
Rio’s Italian Ice
Sweet Mama’s Fresh Squeezed Lemonade
Activities for the Kids
There will be several options for the little ones, such as face painting, games and more. There’s also a “kid zone” complete with huge bounce houses and slides.
Will you be in attendance? Comment below or email us at cmadden@mcclatchy.com.
This story was originally published March 9, 2023 at 11:51 AM.
