AMERICUS, GEORGIA–MARCH 2019–Nowhere will you find more unexpected fun and treasures than in small towns sprinkled across the country. Sumter County, located in west-central Georgia is convenient to I-75, three hours south of Atlanta and only two hours north of I-10, and is one of those proud places brimming with Americana at every turn. Entrepreneurs abound, innovation is apparent and inspiration hangs thick as fog–this is Georgia’s Sumter County: Homegrown. World Renown.
Americus is the county seat of Sumter County and home to industries like agriculture and tourism with a large historical overture seen in iconic landmarks like the Rylander Theatre, the Windsor Hotel and Habitat for Humanity located in the historic Rylander Building. The downtown area beams with history and pride as locals are passionate about renovation and renaissance.
Hot Glass Craft Beer Festival
No matter if you are a local or a visitor, you must mark the second annual Hot Glass Craft Beer Festival on your calendar for April 6, 2019. But, keep in mind some events will actually kick off the evening before (think wine tasting, retail sales, glassblowing demonstrations and live music). Americus Main Street is the host of this extraordinary event attracting folks from all around to experience not only demonstrations of artisan glass blowing true to local culture, but also the growing fascination with craft brewing. Two artisan worlds collide and what a party it will be!
Look for at least 18 regional breweries with three to four unique beers from each place to be featured, as well as various glassblowing demonstrations showcasing Americus and its tradition in this art form. Bet you weren’t expecting such a combination! (NOTE: all alcohol related tastings and samplings are only available to those patrons 21 and older.)
The Friday, April 5, events begin at 5 p.m. and include things like:
- Adult beverage sampling
- Sales and promotions at downtown retailers
- Wine tasting
- Glass artists demonstrations at Lenny’s
- Friday After Dark with Creature Comforts swag and samples with snacks, continued glassblowing demos, live music and fire performers
Saturday holds so much more and premium ticket holders get in one hour earlier than general admission tickets (1 p.m. versus 2 p.m.). Enjoy tap takeovers at participating locations throughout Americus and the Historic Trolley will take you to them all! Live entertainment will round out a fun day in South Georgia and leave you wanting to come back for more.
More, More, More. . .
If the craft beer festival leaves you thirsty for more fun in Americus, check out these additional downtown events later in the year:
- The last Thursday of September from 6-9 p.m. folks flock to Americus to enjoy the Taste of Sumter, which is also the largest annual event for the area. Sumter County restaurants and vendors will line Jackson Street showcasing their culinary skills while guests enjoy the Fall-vibe, complete with live music and small town flair.
- October brings the Downtown Trick or Treat-Kiwanis Pet Parade at 4 p.m. on the last Thursday of October. After the parade, children wearing their costumes may trick-or-treat at participating merchants.
- Christmas Open House is the kick off for the holiday season in Downtown Americus. Come enjoy refreshments, visit with Jolly Ole St. Nick and take a carriage ride through Americus streets. Annually this event occurs from 6-8:30 p.m the Thursday before Thanksgiving.
- The first Thursday in December brings the charming Downtown Christmas Parade welcoming Santa to Americus.
For more information on any of these events, contact the Americus Visitor Center at 229-928-6059 or visit www.VisitAmericusGA.com.