Learn about the history of gold mining in Georgia at Smithgall Woods in Helen, Georgia on August 6, 2011 from 9 AM to 2 PM. A presentation on cultural influences that led up to the “Gold Rush” in Georgia in 1828 will begin the day. There will be a hike on Martin Mine Trail to educate you on the effects gold mining left on the land. Local historians will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for parking. Please register in advance. For more information, call 706-878-3087.

Smithgall Woods is located at:
61 Tsalaki Trail
Helen, GA

What is the 4th of July without fireworks? They make the perfect end to any 4th of July celebration. The annual fireworks display in Helen, Georgia will be held behind the Alpine Village Shoppes and the Helen Welcome Center at dusk (approximately between 9 PM and 9:30 PM) on July 4, 2011.

The whole weekend will offer entertainment. Unicoi State Park is having July 4th, Mountain Style on July 2 – 4, 2011 with fun for the whole family. Enjoy music, a hoedown, watermelon eatin’ and seed spitting contests, and sack races. Several artists and crafts people from around Georgia will be at the park demonstrating their skills. For more information on festivities at Unicoi State Park, call 800-573-9659.

You can always come to Helen, GA early in the day on the 4th and enjoy walking around and visiting the shops and art exhibits in town. Grab some barbecue at the Helen Festhalle from 4 PM to 9 PM, listen to some music and get settled in to watch the fireworks show! It is going to be a very festive Independence Day weekend!

Have a safe and Happy 4th of July!

Saturday, May 28, 2011 is going to be a busy day at the Sautee Nacoochee Community Association (SNCA) in Sautee Nacoochee, Georgia.

The Folk Pottery Museum will be having a Folk Pottery Demonstration from 10 AM to 2 PM. Come on out to see how folk pottery is created.

The Center Gallery will be hosting an artists’ reception from 6:30 PM to 8 PM for “The Art of Wood” art exhibit that will be on display from May 27 through July 10. You will get a chance to meet the artists whose work will be part of the exhibit. All works on display in the exhibit will be available for purchase.

Sautee Nacoochee Volunteer Fire Department is holding their 22nd annual Pig Out Barbecue from 12 PM to 5 PM. Stop by for some tasty barbecue. All proceeds will go towards building the fire station’s technical rescue training tower and improvements to the fire station.

From 6:30 PM to 11 PM is the Community Contra Dance in the Historic Gym. There will be a pot luck dinner beginning at 6:30 PM. If you wish to take part, bring a dish to share. A short contra dance lesson will begin at 7:30 PM for those who want to learn. The dance will begin at 8 PM. Tickets are $7 for SNCA members, $8 for non-members, and $4 for students.

For more information and details, call 706-878-3300.

The Sautee Nacoochee Community Association is located at:
283 Highway 255 N.
Sautee Nacoochee, GA

Warmer weather is just around the corner and it’s about time for spring fishing. Smithgall Woods Conservation Park in Helen, GA is having a day of helpful hints, show and tell, learning to cast, tie flies, read streams and more on March 19, 2011 from 9:30 AM to 12 Noon. Wildlife Interpretive Specialist, Sheila Humphrey, will be offering a presentation on stream entomology aka stream critters.

Register in advance. Admission price is $5 per person and $5 parking. For more information and details, call 706-878-3087.

Smithgall Woods Conservation Park is located at:
61 Tsalaki Trail
Helen, Georgia

Help keep our state parks beautiful by volunteering a few hours of your time to help spruce up Unicoi State Park in Helen, Georgia on March 12, 2011 from 9 AM to 1 PM. Lunch will be provided to all of those who come out to help. Register in advance to volunteer. There is a $5 parking fee. For more information and details, call 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Unicoi State Park offers many great programs throughout the year and has many scenic mountain trails which are wonderful for those hiking and biking enthusiasts. The park also has many picnic tables available to enjoy an afternoon picnic. Visit the lodge gift shop to see a nice selection of handmade quilts and locally crafted pottery.

Unicoi State Park is located at:
1788 Highway 356
Helen, GA