Doubters that spring is actually here can take heart. The 13th annual Spring Fling hosted by the Bowen Center for the Arts is a harbinger of all things green and artistic.
This Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., residents and guests can visit more than 30 vendors displaying one-of-a-kind works of art, pottery, jewelry, handmade soaps and lotions, garden art, plants and more.
The goal of our festival is to promote and cultivate an appreciation for the arts and the artistic spirit of Dawson County, Ginny Greenwood, executive director of the Bowen Center for the Arts said. This is the premier arts, crafts and garden event.
On Saturday, upwards of 60 musicians will entertain guests at the centers outdoor amphitheater. Big Band music reminiscent of the 1930s swing era will be featured Saturday, 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. with a more contemporary concert playlist, 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
One of the featured barbecue vendors is Williamson Brothers from Marietta. Their journey to find the perfect location started in Talladega, Ala., and ended in Cobb County. Traveling in a 1988 Chevy Blazer the owners had won with a $100 raffle ticket, they went looking for empty restaurant space. After weeks of hammering and nailing and spending their life savings, the brothers had just $167 to their names when they opened in 1990. Today, they have three Georgia locations and lots of sauces sold online.
To cool off your mouth after the barbecue, Johnnys homemade ice cream, root beer floats and apple pie are available.
DCHS Juniorettes, a civic club for community minded young women, will be on hand to assist vendors and guests.
The young ladies are absolutely fabulous, Bowen Center for the Arts Board Member Pat Martin said. They are a group of high achieving gals that want to participate and learn more about what its like to be a community service organization.
Admission is free to all events. Food and vendor items may be purchased. Weekend weather is expected to be mostly sunny, 70 - 75 degrees.
The Bowen Center for the Arts is located at 334 Hwy. 9 North, approximately one-half mile north of downtown Dawsonville. The building is affectionately known by locals as the Old Rock Schoolhouse.