It's the Southeast's best good time!

In just two weeks one of the Southeast's finest festivals kicks off with an event under a tent that includes food, drink, music, a silent auction and a live auction.

Can you feel it?  The last attempts by Mother Nature to thwart the inevitable arrival of Spring is in the air. Trees around Dahlonega are beginning to bud and the daffodils are out in force. As our neighbors to the north still contend with snow and cold, we in Lumpkin County  turn our attention to getting outdoors.  The warmer weather brings not only a sigh of relief from the months of wearing extra layers of clothing, but also a variety of activities which brings people together.

It's crossover time -- the vernal equinox -- when days are finally longer than nights in the North Georgia Mountains. That means this is the perfect time to be viewing 50-mile scenic vistas through trees not quite leafed out, and visiting wineries whose vineyard managers are hoping that "bud break" is not too soon.

The first thing I noticed as I drove into the town square was the magnificent North Georgia Mountains. I found Dahlonega, the small town nestled in these mountains, to be delightful at every turn. As I explored Dahlonega, it proved itself to be jovial, festive, and full of activity. I had assumed there would be a town square with nice places to eat, but I soon dismissed my expectations as I stumbled upon art galleries, wine tastings, and so much more.