By: Cayce Lee
Sweet, Sweet Fun…
Hope you weren’t waiting to purchase your tickets for the annual Athens Main Street Chocolate Walk as they sold out in record time this year. But don’t despair, you can still treat your sweetheart to a day out with several events on our calendar at VisitAthensAL.com where you’ll find all the details about times, tickets, and more.
Want to escape to Hogwarts for a magical evening with your darling? Harry Potter Book Night comes to the Athens-Limestone County Public Library on February 7. February 8 is the Empty Bowls Luncheon at the Revival Center where attendees can enjoy a bowl of soup and take home a beautiful hand-crafted bowl while fighting hunger in the community. Or how being a little creative and signing yourself and your sweetie up for Cookie Decorating for Beginners with the Center for Lifelong Learning on February 9? There are still seats left for the Silvery Moon Big Band Valentine Show at Yesterday’s Event Center on February 15.
Don’t forget to enjoy some chocolates from U.G. White’s in downtown Athens, Russell Stover’s Outlet at Exit 351 and U.S. Highway 72, or J.T. Coffee Shop in Ardmore. Plus there are over 100 dining options to choose from in Limestone County to treat your sweetheart to a meal. Take in a movie at Cinemagic in Athens or check out one of our many music venues. You can explore these ideas at VisitAthensAL.com.
Let the Good Times Roll…
Mardi Gras is upon us and it’s a great time to have some fun. Joe Wheeler State Park is bringing the beads and party to the lodge with special room packages for two for their annual Mardi Gras Party on February 23. This 18-and-up-only party is booking fast and includes standard room, party and party favors, and breakfast for two the next morning. Book your room by calling 256-247-5461 .
Black History Month…
The Athens-Limestone Community Association will be hosting their annual Black History Program at 6:00 p.m. in the Beasley Center on February 2. Athens State University Library and Archives and the Athens State University Black Student Alliance will be hosting a 6-week long art exhibit in tribute to Black History Month, the Alabama Bicentennial, and the forthcoming Athens State University Bicentennial featuring local artists’ work with an opening reception on February 26 from 4:30-5:45 p.m. followed by the screening of “Cracking the Codes: The System of Racial Inequity” in McCandless Theatre from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Nature Calls…
February 2 is the statewide Alabama Special Youth Waterfowl Day when licensed adults can help youths 16 and under for a special day of waterfowl hunting. The Great Backyard Bird Count returns and asks citizen-scientists to help count and identify birds in their backyards, in their parks, or along the trails from February 15 through 18. Learn more about these events on the calendar at VisitAthensAL.com
Governor Houston Attraction Re-Opens
The Governor George S. Houston Library and Museum (101 North Houston Street in Athens) has finished its present round of renovations and is open to the public from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Visitors to the homesite will enjoy the original architecture, history of two-time Governor and Senator George S. Houston and his family, and a collection of family, as well as an occasional book sale to benefit the home.
Coming soon…
Panera Bread is coming to Athens in the 1300-block of U.S. Highway 72, adjacent to the Super 8 hotel. Panera Bread is known for its in-house made fresh baked breads and healthy offerings.
You’ll find even more events on the calendars at VisitAthensAL.com or you can stop into the Athens-Limestone Visitors Center 100 North Beaty Street in Athens from 8:00 a.m.-5: 00 p.m. Monday-Friday for events, brochures, and more.
By: Cayce Lee
Social Media Specialist, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association