Cannot Miss Summer Events in Milledgeville

As summer sunshine warms Milledgeville, the town bursts to life with a vibrant calendar of events. Whether you are indulging in local cuisine, enjoying time with the family on the water, or exploring Milledgeville’s history, this summer offers something for everyone. In addition to the summer activities, make sure to check out the regular tours as well. As always, you can see the full list of upcoming events here, but below are some can’t-miss events of the season. 

May Signature Events

May 1st - American Portraits Tour 

Milledgeville-Baldwin County Allied Arts and Lockerly Arboretum have partnered to present a special evening of music and storytelling as the American Portraits Tour comes to town on May 1st from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Pianist Jonathan Levin and vocalist Tyrone Chambers will blend classical, folk, spirituals, jazz, and more, highlighting themes of peace, unity, and heritage. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic baskets, lawn chairs, or blankets and enjoy an interactive, heartfelt performance under the stars.

May 2nd - First Friday: Hometown Celebration

Milledgeville Main Street’s First Friday: Hometown Celebration promises an unforgettable evening in downtown Milledgeville on Friday, May 2nd, from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The event will feature live music, an artisan market, and a family fun zone. Residents and visitors alike are invited to take part in the festivities and enjoy the vibrant energy of downtown Milledgeville.

May 3rd - Meet Lockerly’s Reptiles

Take an up-close look at the reptiles that reside in the Woods Museum at Lockerly Arboretum with Meet Lockerly’s Reptiles. This engaging half-hour program offers a fascinating look into the lives of these unique creatures and is held on Tuesdays at 4:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. It’s an educational experience perfect for those curious about the natural world.

May 8th - May 29th - Oconee Artist Exhibit                                 

The Oconee Artist Exhibition celebrates the creativity of Central Georgia artists through a vibrant display of original works. On view at the John Marlor Art Center, the exhibit features a diverse range of mediums including Drawing, Mixed Media, Painting, Sculpture/Pottery, and Digital Art. The exhibit will be open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

May 9th - Full Moon Float

Oconee Outfitters offers a memorable evening of kayaking under the glow of moonlight with the Full Moon Float. This popular nighttime paddle along the Oconee River includes rental options starting at $55 for a single kayak and $85 for a tandem kayak or canoe. Shuttle service is also available for personal boats. To reserve a spot, call Oconee Outfitters and get ready for a moonlit adventure on the water.

May 10th - Central State Hospital Campus Trolley Tour

The Central State Hospital Campus Trolley Tour offers a two-hour guided look at one of Milledgeville’s most storied sites. Led by a former hospital employee, the tour explores the hospital’s history, current use, and future plans, with stops that may include Cedar Lane Cemetery and the Chapel of All Faiths. Tours are held on select Saturdays at 11:30 a.m., departing from the Milledgeville Visitor Information Center, rain or shine.

May 16th - Ghosts of Milledgeville Walking Tour 

The Ghosts of Milledgeville Walking Tour offers a guided evening stroll through downtown Milledgeville, sharing stories of the city’s storied and mysterious past. Tours depart from the Visitor Information Center at 5:30 p.m. on select Friday evenings. Tickets are $12 and must be reserved in advance by calling 478-452-4687 or visiting the Milledgeville Visitor’s Center in person.

May 16th - 25th - Milledgeville Burger Week

Over 10 eateries in Milledgeville will each be offering an off-menu, mouthwatering special $10 burger à la carte during Burger Week 2025, May 16th- May 25th. The restaurants will offer one flavor-packed, specialty burger during the week for only $10 hoping to earn the title of the Milledgeville People’s Choice Award Winner! Burgers will be available during regular lunch and dinner hours during Burger Week.

May 17th - Heritage Hustle 5k & Fun Run

The Heritage Hustle 5K & Fun Run invites participants to enjoy a morning of music, prizes, and exercise on Saturday, May 17th. Hosted by Georgia's Old Capital Heritage Center at The Depot, the race begins and ends at the GOCHC Depot Building, winding through the historic Central State Hospital grounds.

May 24th - Statehouse Square Walking Tour

The Statehouse Square Walking Tour offers a one-hour guided journey through Milledgeville’s historic heart. Explore Georgia’s Old Capitol Building, including exclusive access to the House Chamber and Legislative Lobby. Reservations can be made by calling the Milledgeville Visitor Center at (478) 452-4687.

May 30th - Music at The Mill

Music at The Mill offers a free, family-friendly evening of live performances and local talent on the last Friday of each month. The event begins with Spotlight Artist showcases, featuring a variety of musical styles, followed by an open jam session where musicians and singers of all levels are invited to take the stage and share their sound.

June Signature Events

June 2nd - 8th -  Lake Country Classic Pickleball Tournament

The Lake Country Classic Pickleball Tournament, hosted by the Milledgeville Pickleball Club, kicks off a full week of pickleball events at Walter B. Williams Park from June 2nd to June 8th. Celebrating the park’s new courts, the week includes free community mixers, family night, doubles play, and inter-city challenges. The main event runs Friday through Sunday with competitive singles, gender doubles, and mixed doubles brackets.

June 4th - Deep Dive Book Talk: Seeking Eden

Join Lockerly Director of Education Kensey Amerson for a Deep Dive Book Talk on Seeking Eden by Staci L. Catron and Mary Ann Eaddy, exploring the historic gardens featured in the book. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, this event offers a chance to connect with others who share your passion. The discussion will take place on Wednesday, June 4th, at 5:30 p.m. at Lockerly Arboretum.

June 6th & 20th - The Milly Farmer’s Market

Join The Milly Market for Friday evening Farmer's Markets every first and third Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The market features a variety of locally sourced products, including fresh produce, meats, baked goods, handmade cleaning supplies, and natural skincare items. Enjoy live music while you shop and support local vendors.

June 6th - First Friday: Beach Bash

Milledgeville Main Street's First Friday: Beach Bash on June 6th will bring the beach to Milledgeville! Sand will be spread in the Deep Roots parking lot for a fun beach party. Bring your beach chair to relax while the kids enjoy beach toys, games, and family fun. 

June 12th - Deep Dive Speaker Series: An Evening with Staci Catron

Lockerly Arboretum’s Deep Dive Speaker Series will feature Staci Catron, Director of the Cherokee Garden Library in Atlanta, for an engaging evening on Georgia’s historic landscapes. Catron will discuss her book Seeking Eden: A Collection of Georgia’s Historic Gardens, which explores the stories of nearly 30 historic gardens through captivating photographs and research.

June 21st - Family Paddle

Join Oconee Outfitters for Family Paddle, a fun afternoon on the water! Perfect for young or new paddlers, this gentle route from the Greenway to Central State Boat Ramp offers scenic sandbars and plenty of wildlife to observe. Pack snacks, sunscreen, and extra drinks to stay refreshed as you enjoy this family-friendly adventure on the water.

July Signature Events

July 12th - Christmas in July

Milledgeville Main Street’s Christmas in July is bringing festive fun to downtown on July 12th. Browse a holiday market filled with vendors offering unique gifts to kickstart your seasonal shopping. Enjoy great specials from downtown restaurants and shops while you explore this cheerful summer celebration.

July 19th - Ladies’ Paddle

Join Oconee Outfitters for Ladies' Paddle, a relaxed afternoon on the river perfect for both new and experienced paddlers. This scenic float from the Oconee River Greenway to the Central State boat ramp offers gentle waters and a great way to unwind with friends. Equipment rentals and shuttle service are available—just be sure to reserve your spot!

August Signature Events

August 1st - First Friday: Car Show

First Friday: Car Show, hosted by Milledgeville Main Street, brings a lively evening of vintage and modern cars, live music, and tasty eats to downtown. With face painting for kids and fun for all ages, it’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Don’t miss this festive night of engines, entertainment, and family fun.

August 1st & 15th - The Milly Farmer’s Market

Join The Milly Market for Friday evening Farmer's Markets every first and third Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The market features a variety of locally sourced products, including fresh produce, meats, baked goods, handmade cleaning supplies, and natural skincare items. Enjoy live music while you shop and support local vendors.

August 5th - Deep Dive Book Talk: Blood Ties & Brown Liquor

Deep Dive Book Talk invites readers to join Lockerly Director of Education, Kensey Amerson, for an engaging conversation on the works of Sean Hill and Latria Graham. Explore Blood Ties & Brown Liquor, set in Milledgeville, along with selected essays by Graham, as the discussion dives into themes of local history, nature, and our relationship with the land—no poetry background required, just curiosity and a love for storytelling.

August 9th - Full Moon Float

Oconee Outfitters offers a memorable evening of kayaking under the glow of moonlight with the Full Moon Float. This popular nighttime paddle along the Oconee River includes rental options starting at $55 for a single kayak and $85 for a tandem kayak or canoe. Shuttle service is also available for personal boats. To reserve a spot, call Oconee Outfitters and get ready for a moonlit adventure on the water.

August 14th - Deep Dive Speaker Series: An Evening with Sean Hill & Latria Graham

Lockerly Arboretum’s Deep Dive Speaker Series will welcome poet Sean Hill and journalist Latria Graham for a thoughtful conversation on the relationship between writing and the natural world. Hill, a Milledgeville native and author of Dangerous Goods and Blood Ties & Brown Liquor, joins Graham, a South Carolina-based writer and recipient of The American Mosaic Journalism Prize, to share personal insights, creative journeys, and how nature influences their work and lives

Looking for more events? See our full events calendar here.