1. Run with pride in the Firecracker 5k/10k
Start your 4th of July off with a bang by donning your red, white, and blue attire and racing through the streets of Dahlonega in our Firecracker 5k and 10k races. Cost is $30. Register online at www.active.com.
2. Paws for Celebration with us at Hancock Park
Do you think you have the cutest, most obedient, or most talented pet around? Show us what you’ve got during the Pet Show & Expo at Hancock Park from 8am – 12pm. The talent show, fashion show, and obedience class is open to all. Registration for the Pet Show begins at 8 am. There is a $5 entry fee for each competition. If you don’t want to participate in the shows, we encourage you to bask in the cuteness and cheer on your favorite pets.
3. Raise Your Flags High during the Patriotic Ceremony
Surrounded by the incredible sight of memorial crosses and American flags lining Dahlonega’s Historic Public Square, the Patriotic Ceremony promises a moving tribute to love of country, honor, service and patriotism. At 10am, we will honor the rich military history of our community and celebrate America’s independence. The ceremony will include inspiring musical performances by the Silver Singers, the presentation of colors, a rousing rendition of the national anthem and a speech from our keynote speaker.
4. Enjoy Jams with the Fam
We decided that we cannot have a 4th of July Celebration without music! This year we have added a full lineup of talented musicians that will have you dancing around town. The Chestatee Ford Stage will be located on the Visitors Center Plaza with live music kicking off after the Patriotic Ceremony.
5. Support American Businesses
While taking in rock, jazz, and Americana jams, stroll through the All American Market. New to the festival this year, the market features traditional crafts and one-of-a-kind, handmade items available for purchase directly from regional artists and craftspeople. With all of the products made right here in the U.S.A., we encourage you to support these hard-working entrepreneurs. You can also learn more about all of the wonderful organizations in Dahlonega and Lumpkin County at the Community Outreach Corner.
6. Try Not to Fall in Love at the Classic Car Show
With an entire lot full of beautiful, lovingly restored and maintained cars, we understand what a tall order this is. Jaws will drop and jealousy may arise as you peer inside these classic beauties. More than 150 restored classic cars will be on display at the Gold City Classic Car Show from 10am to 4pm at the Lumpkin County Library parking lot on East Main Street.
7. Get a Little Messy
Every year we have a blast watching kids, ages 7 to 16, chomp away at giant quarter slices of watermelon in our annual Watermelon Eating Contest. This year, we decided to let the adults, 18 and over, get a little messy too with our first ever Pie Eating Contest. If you think you have what it takes to beat your competitors to the bottom of the pie dish, head over to Hancock Park to register on the 4th of July for just $5.00. There is only room for 20 competitors, so be sure to sign up early – before 1 pm -- at the Merchandise Booth located outside of the Visitors Center.
8. Hop on the Sparkler Express
Bring your conductor hats and get ready for a ride on Dahlonega’s Sparkler Express! For only $5 per rider, adults and children can hop aboard the track-less train and chug through downtown Dahlonega. Pre-purchase your tickets online and avoid the lines: click here to purchase tickets.
9. Line the Square and Cheer on the Parade
A crowd favorite, Dahlonega’s Patriotic Parade will start at 5pm and make its way around the Square. Make way for an exciting lineup of parade participants who will make you smile, laugh, and cheer.
10. Climb, jump, slide, and bounce around at the Adventure Zone
There is no better way to burn off summertime energy than by spending time in our Adventure Zone! Cool off with a trip down our water slide, bounce around in our inflatables, make your way through the obstacle course, and show off your sports skills at the Homerun Derby and Mini All-Star Basketball challenges. But wait, there’s more! This Adventure Zone isn’t just for the little ones. Throw on a harness and climb your way to the top of the 24-foot rock climbing wall and reach for the sky on the Power Jump Bungee Trampoline. All day passes and single ride tickets are available. Pre-purchase them online to skip the long purchasing line: click here to purchase tickets.
11. Grab a Bite & Enjoy the Best Fireworks Show in North Georgia!
Dahlonega is known for having some of the best regional dining experiences, and we encourage you to enjoy them while you are here. If you are in the mood for something on the go, consider placing a to-go order or grab a snack or meal from one of our food vendors, located next to the Adventure Zone. Then grab your blankets and chairs and scope out the perfect viewing spot for the spectacular fireworks display that will kick off at dusk.
