Things To Do
Events
Food & Drink
Hotels & Lodging
Plan Your Trip
Every year in late October, Milledgeville, Georgia, celebrates Deep Roots Festival. This lively celebration brings music, art, food, and small-town fun to the heart of downtown. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic retreat, or a trip with friends, this weekend is filled with experiences that showcase Milledgeville’s vibrant culture and welcoming spirit. From thought-provoking events and historic tours to live entertainment and unforgettable dining, there is plenty to keep you exploring all weekend long.
Friday, October 16
Kick off your weekend with unique local experiences, delicious dining, and a glimpse into Milledgeville’s storied past. Arrive early to settle into your hotel or vacation rental, leaving plenty of time to explore before the festivities begin.
As evening falls, the Ghosts of Milledgeville Walking Tour begins at 7:00 p.m., offering a guided stroll through historic streets and a closer look at some of the city’s most fascinating legends. Looking for a little faster-paced fun? The Thriller 5k at Central State Hospital is an opportunity to see the historic campus at dusk while going for a run. Afterward, enjoy the pre-festival calm with dinner downtown at a locally owned restaurant or choose to dine just beyond the city center. Restaurants like Kai Thai, Aubri Lanes, and The Front Porch on Sinclair provide perfect atmospheres and amazing menus for a laid-back evening, whether you’re planning a date night or a night out with friends.
Saturday, October 17
At 10:00 a.m., the Deep Roots Festival officially opens, filling downtown Milledgeville with artisan vendors, a kids’ area, an antique car show, and live local music. The morning offers a slower pace with fewer crowds, making it a great time for families to enjoy the festival. If you missed the evening ghost tour, you can start your Saturday morning with the Ghosts of Milledgeville Morning Walking Tour at 10:30 a.m. before jumping into the festival happenings. Once the sun begins to set, the afternoon and evening bring a livelier atmosphere as the streets fill with visitors watching college football games, enjoying live local music, and restaurants and food trucks serving a variety of bar food and sweet treats.
Headlining the festival is Clayton Nile Young, a West Virginia native whose blend of alternative country, bluegrass, and folk creates his signature sound, “Holler Poetry.” Joining him are The Psycodelics, bringing a mix of funk, rock, and pop from South Carolina; Athens-based Sweet Tea Pedigree, known for their soulful blues rock; Middle Georgia’s The BlaqBerry Band, serving up Southern soul; and the Tropical Breeze Steel Band, bringing Calypso, Soca, Pop, Beach, Reggae, and Latin sounds to the stage. Jazz fans can enjoy performances by talented Georgia College & State University musicians, while local favorites, including the Oak Hill Middle Chorus and John Milledgeville Academy Chorus, round out the lineup.
For football fans, games will be broadcast on a large projector screen on Hancock Street, right in the heart of the festival, so no one has to pick between game day excitement and Deep Roots fun. Cheer on your team alongside fellow fans, then keep the celebration going as the headlining concert takes over the main stage, businesses stay open late, and food and drinks continue to flow.
In addition to the festival, visitors can enjoy a few seasonal activities happening around Milledgeville. Just a short drive from downtown, Comfort Farms, a veteran-owned and operated farm, will host its bi-monthly market from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., featuring seasonal produce, eggs, meat and pantry goods. Just outside the festival area, catch some college football as Georgia Military College takes on Community Christian College at 1:00 p.m. on GMC’s Davenport Field.
Sunday, October 18
After two exciting days, Sunday is the perfect opportunity to slow down and savor the final moments of your weekend in Milledgeville. Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely brunch at one of the city’s beloved local restaurants. Local Yolkal Cafe is a staple for classic breakfast dishes like eggs Benedict, omelets, and breakfast sandwiches. For something a little different, Bollywood Tacos combines Mexican and Indian influences with creative dishes like huevos rancheros, chilaquiles verdes, and naan carnitas.
Once brunch is complete, grab a cup of freshly roasted coffee at Blackbird Coffee and take your time browsing the locally owned boutiques in downtown Milledgeville. If you prefer the outdoors, the Oconee River Greenway provides a scenic and refreshing place to unwind before heading home.
Plan Your Deep Roots Weekend
Deep Roots is one of Milledgeville’s most popular weekends of the year, and lodging fills up quickly. Hotels and vacation rentals often sell out in advance, so booking early is essential to secure your stay. With live music, delicious dining, family-friendly activities, and historic experiences, the Deep Roots Festival is the perfect time to experience Milledgeville in the fall.
