Hundreds of county residents and visitors will swarm to Bowen Center for the Arts this weekend for the Art in the Garden Spring Fling festival.

Last year the weather was close to perfect for the event and organizers are hoping for plenty of sunshine and easy breezes to find their way back.

Hosted by the Dawson County Arts Council, the two-day Spring Fling on May 5 and 6 will feature dozens of vendors and artists from across the Southeast.

Booths and tables will offer made-in-America arts and crafts and a large selection of gardening supplies. Blacksmith and woodworker demonstrations will be displayed. There will also be food, music and activities.

"The event is a great show if you are looking for gardening plants, great yard ideas and craft inspirations," said Marcia Chelf, executive director for the center.

"There is great music and festivities for people throughout the weekend too. There is really something for everyone," she said.

Organizers are expecting an even greater turn out for this year's event.

It will all kick-off at 7 p.m. on Friday with a street dance featuring the Remember When Band, playing rock hits from the '50s, '60s and '70s.

Jeanne Tompkins, arts council president, encourages the community to bring a picnic and enjoy the evening of live music at the center's amphitheater.

"We have a few tables, but they can bring a blanket and a basket and have a fun evening with their family," she said.

The street dance will be followed by activities such as a bike ride, motorcycle rally, children's games and seminars for the entire family from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Tompkins believes it's a time for making family memories and traditions.
"Last year was wonderful because I took my granddaughter who was almost 4 years old. She got to ride a horse and do all types of things. She still talks about it," Tompkins said.

The event raises money for the Dawson County Arts Council and its community initiatives.

For more information, call (706) 216-2787.

Bowen Center for the Arts is located in The Old Rock School building at 334 Hwy. 9 North in Dawsonville.

The center features art galleries year-round and is open Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m.-4p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.