Ziplines & Via Ferrata through Trees, a Canyon

Soar with the birds from treetop to treetop. Glide through a canyon over breathtaking waterfalls or climb a sheer rock face. I was first introduced to ziplining and rock climbing, via ferrata by Francois Guy Thivierge, up in Canyon Sainte-Anne, in Quebec, Canada.
Welcome to Parc des Chutes Coulonge Aerial Park, one of Quebec's awesome adventure parcs. Strap on a harness and lock your carabiners onto a steel cable, then hang on as you zip from tree to tree more than 30' off the ground. Take a slow breath as you get a bird's eye view of the parc and river. Enjoy eight ziplines and a 10 meter Himalayan foot bridge before embarking on the giant 805 feet long giant zip across the canyon. Look down at the Coulonge River and rapids, where logs used to float. This site is a tribute to the great log drives and a 3,000 feet wooden log slide. Explore the Coulonge Falls on pedestrian trails and footbridges with lookouts along the interpretation trail. Or, after gliding along the Canyon Zip, work your way back along prehistoric rock face, via ferrata, which is Latin for "iron roads". The Via Ferrata run 500 meters (1,640 ft) up the gorge towards a natural waterfall. Cross on a 46 m cable tightrope over the chasm, then exit through the steepest and sheerest section of the rock wall in a slanted forest. (www.chutescoulonge.ca)
Need another adrenaline rush? Visit Cap Jaseux in the woods along the Saguenay Fjord. (www.capjaseux.com) This is an adult, jungle gym, extreme, multi-sport destination. They offer rustic and developed camping, sea kayaking, sailing, via ferrata course, mountain biking, and you can spend the night in a tree house, 30+ feet above ground!

You may have done ropes courses, but not like these. They have an extreme course with 33 mentally and physically challenging puzzles and eight zip lines, so difficult, that no one has finished without grabbing for a safety rope. There are rope swings, suspension bridges that roll under your feet, trapeze bars and tight ropes. If that's not enough, at one puzzle you unclip from your safety-line belay and trust the net, just like Cirque du Soleil. 

Looking for more adrenaline rushes? Follow this blog for more; white water rafting and bungee jumping!

Take Aim at Breast Cancer, Paintball Tournament

Fantasy of Flight: "Take Aim at Breast Cancer"

                     Oct. 23-24, 2010     10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

During the 2010 Paintball Sports Promotion (PSP) World Cup Paintball Tournament held at Fantasy of Flight, guests can contribute to the fight to find a cure for breast cancer. For a small donation, guests will be able to fire a round of pink paintballs at a canvas that will eventually become a work of art.  A portion of the funds collected will be donated to the Orlando Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Local Winter Haven artist, Tony Trotti, has agreed to donate his talent to creating art out of the paintball splattered canvases which will be donated to the Cassidy Center at Winter Haven Hospital to be auctioned off at their annual gala on Nov. 4th, 2010.  Community partners include Paintball Sports Promotion (PSP), Off the Wall Adventures, Inc., Procaps Direct and Artist Tony Trotti.

Cost:  Spectators receive free entry to the PSP World Cup.  $10 donation for each round.

Camping with the Caribou!

Almost glamping. What an awesome adventure to be camping with Caribou. Come on a safari with me. Don't worry you don't have to go all the way to Africa. We're heading north to Canada, Saguenay in Quebec. Welcome to the Saint Felicien Zoo, they celebrated either 50th anniversary this year! http://www.zoosauvage.org
This probably isn't like other zoos you may have been to. The polar bear exhibit is very popular. Many people gather around to watch these aqua lovers play and eat.  If you can't get away right now, they have live webcams so you can take a creativity or mental health break and just watch as these beautiful creatures roam and play. Their habitats are grande and as much of a natural habitat as possible. 


Be introduced to their ecosystem with an interactive movie. Feel, touch, smell; awaken your senses through a marvelous movie that was filmed in the park! 
Take a tram ride through the Nature Trail (natural habitat) where you can get up close and personal with black bears, wolves, Elk and Caribou! Guests can become VIP's, with their own personal guide for more than 24 hours on an adventure inside the park. Go moose hunting (tracking) and camp out with the Caribou. Enjoy a short hike through the Borealie. Paddle on Lake Montagnais and look for caribou and other animals on the islands amist the loggers camp. Partake in lunch at a Colonial Farm. Dine on a meal cooked over an open fire. Marvel as the caribou meander through your camp. Be sure and take your flashlight if you have to go anywhere at night, you don't want to accidentally bump into a caribou on your way to the outhouse, and you definitely don't want to step in any scat).
Kids and adults can even get a behind the scenes look at the large animal veterinary clinic as well as other educational opportunities, camps and water games. 

They're friendly. Really they are! They are almost domesticated. 

Wanna hear a secret? There's a rumor going around that in the near future, you may be able to run with the wolves! Okay, maybe not run with them, but.. something similar to Camping with the Caribou. sshhhh!

Fastest Indian and wheels through history

I have a love/hate relationship with motorcycles. When I was younger I was in a minor motorcycle accident. Naturally, I tended to shy away from them after that. However, I still love to look at them and even ride as a passenger, with someone I trust, on the back of a Harley or Triumph.
I had the pleasure of visiting a wonderful garage, well actually its a museum. In Maggie Valley, NC, is an awesome place where there are more than 300 rare, classic and working motorcycles and a few vehicles. The founder, Dale, of Wheels Through Time (www.wheelsthroughtime.com) is very passionate about his motorcycles and the other vehicles in the collection. "Every motorcycle has a story. I didn't just go out and buy them," explains Dale. No matter where you stop on the floor, or the second floor, Dale or his son, are happy to explain the history behind the motorcycle.
Dale was recently featured in an interview with Jay Leno at Pebble Beach. http://www.jaylenosgarage.com/at-the-garage/motorcycles/motorcycles-of-pebble-beach-2010/#comments

Gulf Beaches, Mental Health Day, Sandpiper

Life is busy. But it doesn't mean we can't escape for a day or two. In fact, it's imperative that you schedule regular mental-health days, or a creativity break. We need to debrief our brain and body from the organized chaos we live and breath from day to day.
    Walk out your door, from the Sandpiper Inn (www.sandpiperinn.com) on Longboat Key, and you'll be stepping onto one of Florida's best kept secrets. A beach where the tide gently rolls in, proffering her treasures. Beachcomb, walk along the beach, jog or bring your beloved pet too. A beautiful sunset, calming breeze and fresh air beckon you to come back regularly. Sip cocktails on your private beach and make new friends, walk among the mangroves, bays or go birding with local resident egrets and more than 200 species of birds. A wonderful park is across the street for biking and walking, Joan M. Durante Community Park.
    Rent or bring a bike to explore bike paths along Longboat Key and St. Armands Circle. (www.sarasotafl.org) Browse the unique stores and boutiques for the hard to shop for family and friends, or just for yourself! Hop aboard a fishing charter, enjoy eco-touring in local wild life habitats and reel in some fun (and memories) with your mackeral, grouper  or giant flounder.

    Stroll through Motes Aquarium (www.mote.org), great for one, two, or the family! Learn about sharks and Florida's native species. There are touch pools for adults and kids. Kids can get a bucket of sand and pan for sharks tooth and more! Marvel at John & Mable's Ringling Museum of Art (www.ringling.org) and the Ca d'Zan mansion. A must see and experience from the private art collection to the beautifully maintained home to the International Arts Festival coming in October.
    The evening wouldn't be complete without a decadent meal in a relaxing atmosphere. Our personal favorites include: Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub. This charming, weathered beach house dates back to 1912 and is accessible by land or sea. The manager told me that most of his clients don't know how to come by land, they all arrive in their boats. The Sandbar, on Anna Maria Island is also a legend dating back to 1913, offers tropical music and fresh seafood. The website for these two and a third restaurant on the beach, is www.groupersandwich.com. We ate at mar Vista and the view as well as our meal was superb and our waitress did a wonderful job making sure my scallops were just right!
    We also enjoy Harry's. A very charming restaurant where you can get a delicious german pancake with apples and bananas. They are open for breakfast and lunch with a varied schedule during off seasons. They also offer catering.
    Revisit old Florida. Leave your cell phones, blackberries and laptops at home. Bring your camera and a pair of sandals as you will be swept away in Longboat Key's peaceful respite.

    More photos and places to stay and visit in Longboat Key and Sarasota at www.newtraveladventures.com
  Another one of my favorite places to stay ad I hope will be yours, is the Cypress Bed & Breakfast  (www.cypressbb.com) in Sarasota, overlooking the bay! Their rooms are spacious, elegant, comfortable and the innkeepers will make sure you have everything you need, including a welcome glass of wine and light snacks before dinner on the town. You can walk to the historic art and theatre village only one block over. Only minutes from Sarasota's wonderful attractions including Selby Botanical Gardens, to boating and water sports, right from the marina across the street.

Myakka River State Park

Step onto the trail. Do you hear it? The stillness in the air. It's relatively quiet. An occasional car might drive along the winding road, but it's you and nature. The rustle of leaves on the ground or maybe a few treetops waving a gentle breeze. Listen to the Pied-billed Grebe, Red-headed woodpecker and the Pileated woodpecker. Keep an eye out for the Snowy or Great Egret, the Great Blue Heron and a White ibis, among dozens of other species that are permanent residents at Myakka River State Park.
Myakka River State Park offers a beautiful Canopy Walkway that is suspended 25 feet above ground and is 100 feet long through the hammock. A tower is located at one end which reaches 74 feet high. A great observation deck with a coin-operated viewfinder to observe treetops, wetlands and the prairie among other wildlife.
The fresh pine smell is relaxing and refreshing. The Myakka River flows through 5 square miles of wetlands, prairies and woodlands. Go for a hike along part of the  39 miles of trails. Rent a bike or kayak and ride along the scenic drive through shady hammocks, grassy marshes and around the lake. The park also offers a guided, narrated airboat and tram ride for visitors to relax and learn about the parks special inhabitants and history.
Myakka River State Park offers trails, campsites, boating, kayaking, birdwatching and other fun, outdoor activities for individuals, families or couples.

Labor Day Events in Florida

American Music Festival – (Daytona Beach, Sept. 1-5) Celebrate Labor Day with the stars! Legendary jazz crooner Tony Bennett, five-time Grammy award winner Usher and teen pop sensations the Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato will all be performing during Daytona Beach’s American Music Festival. Other musical acts performing during the weekend includeBuddy Guy, Taj Mahal and the Phantom Blues Band, Huey Lewis and the News, and Blake Shelton with special guest Jerrod Niemann. For ticket information or more details, visitwww.amf2010.com. As a Daytona Beach tradition, the seaside city will celebrate the end of summer with a festive Labor Day Block Party on Main Street and a spectacular fireworks show from the nearby historic /b>Daytona Beach Pier. Visit www.daytonabeach.com or call toll-free 1(800) 854-1234 for further details.
Read more here:  www.NewTravelAdventures.com

Ringling, Baryshnikov Art at its' finest

Five artistic, beautiful days and nights of music, theatre and dance will be presented at the Ringling International Arts Festival (RIAF) in partnership with Baryshnikov Arts Center for community enjoyment. This is the second year for this festival and demand for tickets and performances has been very demanding with early ticket sales and some performances already sold out. Baryshnikov himself will be offering a limited number of performances, however, I'm told they may already be sold out. But don't worry there are numerous other beautiful performances to come see and to bring your family out for. Tim Fain will be performing the world premiere of a Philip Glass composition commissioned expressly for the Festival. There will be 44 performances of 11 stage productions presented Oct. 13-17 in three theaters of the Ringling Center for the Arts in Sarasota.

For more information: www.ringlingartsfestival.org

Also, more will be posted on our website: www.NewTravelAdventures.com

Oklahoma Honors Military

State Park says Thank You with 25 percent discount.

Oklahoma State Parks are kicking off a special promotion to say "thank you" to U.S. troops both past and present. Now through February 28, 2011, active or retired military, as well as veterans are eligible for a 25 percent discount off of lodge rooms and cabin stays at any Oklahoma state park.

This discount is valid any day of the week, including weekends, based on availability and is redeemable at all five state park lodges, plus more than 300 newly renovated cabins statewide.

"This is a small way we can say thank you and show our support of the men, women and their families who give so much to our country," said Hardy Watkins, executive director, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. "We hope it provides an opportunity for well-deserved rest and relaxation to people who give us all so much.  At the same time, we hope they can create some wonderful, lifelong memories at our state parks." www.TravelOK.com/state_parks

Read more here: www.NewTravelAdventures.com

Alaska Cruises

Looking for an affordable cruises in Alaska? Whether you are looking for a 7 day, 10 day or 14 day adventure to see the beautiful glaciers and then some, visit our website, www.NewTravelAdventures.com
Travel from Vancouver to Ketchikan to Juneau, Skagway, then go sightseeing along Glacier Bay and College Fjord. After this breathtaking experience, hop onboard a luxury rail for a scenic trip of Denali and Mt. McKinley.

Summer, Fall Adventures in Big Bear

Reward yourself with a weekend getaway or vacation where you can let the rod and reel do the work or a boat or bike! Immerse yourself in one of Earth's Garden of Edens at Big Bear Lake in California. Explore with soft or extreme adventure in the Rocky Mountains in the San Bernardino National Forest on mountain bike trails or on horseback.
Explore the back country hiking the alpine trails or birding for downtime or get some extreme adventure ziplining, water skiing, kayaking, parasailing and more. Allow the thrilling adventures get your feet off the ground and take your breath away.
Feed your inner soul, re-energize with a spa treatment and revitalize your energy.
Enjoy Big Bear in any season; from sparkling summers, to crisp autumn colors and the magic of winter on the slopes.
Find out more here, www.NewTravelAdventures.com or here, www.Bigbear.com
From romantic getaways to family vacations, Big Bear is just a short drive away and offers lodging packages with free pre-paid Visa card deals. Travel to Big Bear this spring, summer or fall and we'll help pay for your trip. Those who stay at a participating lodge one or two nights get a $25 Visa card three or four night stays are good for $50 and five or more nights receive a $100 Visa card. Guests can spend the pre-paid Visa cards freely at any place that accepts Visa, such as dinner at a nice restaurant, a pontoon boat rental, tickets to an event or a shopping spree in the Big Bear Village. The free pre-paid Visa card promotion ends November 22, 2010. Restrictions may apply.

Ghosts? Paranormal? at Fantasy of Flight?

Fantasy of Flight's night Flight Paranormal Investigation

Back by popular demand, Fantasy of Flight invites guests to embark on this active, professional paranormal investigation led by Apollo Paranormal Investigations. Visitors will learn of the world's largest private aircraft collection’s haunted history, explore the unexplained occurrences throughout the halls and hangars of Fantasy of Flight, visit locations where encounters have been recorded and engage in the hands-on use of the tools of the ghost hunting trade. The event is Oct. 16th and 30th from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m..  Tickets are $75.00 (plus tax) per person. Guests must be 16 years of age or older and minors must be accompanied by an adult (parent or guardian).  Reservations required. For more information please visit www.fantasyofflight.com/nightFlight or call  863-984-3500.

Albuquerque, NM Summer FUN Heats Up!

Escape your everyday - plan your visit to Albuquerque today 

Sign up to win a customized vacation to Albuquerque
Four people will win a three-night customized vacation to Albuquerque. Immerse yourself in all that Albuquerque has to offer with the help of a local Albuquerque expert to make your trip even more memorable.

Plan your summer getaway to AlbuquerqueAlbuquerque is blessed with a mild, dry climate, which makes summertime very comfortable. Enjoy an array of summer concerts, festivals and markets. Save with our lodging specials.

Southwest Airlines New Mexico Specials: June 8 - 14
Albuquerque is Southwest Airline's Featured Destination. Get great deals this week on Southwest Airlines flights, hotels and packages. See the link on ItsATrip.org or visit Southwest.com

Upcoming Events:Turner to Cezanne: Masterpieces from the Davies Collection, National Museum of Wales Now - August 8Features approximately 55 paintings and five important Impressionist works at the Albuquerque Museum of Art & History. Organized by the American Federation of Arts and The National Museum of Wales.
Summer Fun Now - September

Summertime offers an array of concerts, festivals, markets and fun. Experience Albuquerque's diverse and unique music scene on almost any given night of the week with: Zoo Music, Salsa, Jazz and Blues Under the Stars, Summerfest, Concert Band Summer series, Summer Nights concert series and much more.

Mariachi Spectacular July 7 - 11

Featuring the world's finest and most accomplished mariachi musicians.

"Hot Time in Old Town" Salsa Fiesta August 14

Salsa music and dance, a salsa tasting competition, and live entertainment throughout Old Town.

Albuquerque Film Festival August 25 - 29

Celebrating writers, filmmakers, musicians and artists from around the globe whose unique visions break rules and startle the imagination. 

New Mexico Wine Festival September 4 - 6

Wine tastings, live entertainment, food, and arts and crafts in Bernalillo.

¡Globalquerque! World Music Festival September 24 - 25

A celebration that includes international performers, local artists, food and crafts from around the world, and more.

22nd Annual Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival October 1 - 3 & 8 - 10

Over 250 fine artists and craftsmen, entertaiment, artist demonstrations, food and fun.

Fall Indian Art Market October 2 - 3

Buy direct from Native American artists at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® October 2 - 10

More than 600 balloons participate in Mass Ascensions, eveningBalloon Glows, a Special Shape Rodeo and more.  

Taste of New Mexico October 7 - 9

20-50 booths offering food in taste portion size, live performances, a wine and brew gallery, New Mexico cigars, New Mexico chile and desserts! 

Georgia State Park July Calendar of Events

Below is the July 2010 Calendar from Georgia's State Parks & Historic Sites.  More information on events, including accommodations and facilities, can be found at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org or 1-800-864-7275.  For an online calendar listing, visitwww.GeorgiaStateParks.org/events.  You can also become a fan on Facebook  and follow us on Twitter. Thank you for helping promote Georgia’s natural and historic resources!

July 2010 Events – Divided By Region

NORTHERN GEORGIA

Independence Day Celebration

Friday, July 2 through Sunday, July 4, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge – Dawsonville

A weekend of family fun to celebrate the nation’s independence! Join us for relay races, patriotic crafts, and the famous watermelon seed-spitting contest! $5 parking. (706) 265-1969.

July 4^th Mountain Style

Friday, July 2 through Sunday, July 4

Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen

The weekend will include fun such as a watermelon eatin’ seed spittin contest, sack races, music concert, hoedown, and fun for the entire family. This event starts at 8 PM on Friday and ends at 9 PM on Sunday. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Appalachian Jam

Saturdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 2 p.m.  – 5 p.m.

Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site – Dahlonega

Every Saturday starting April 17 until October 9, come listen to the sounds and songs of yesteryear. North Georgia's mountain music singers and pickers will appear on the grounds of the historic Dahlonega Gold Museum. Enjoy acoustic and old-time strings as the sounds of yesterday fill the air. (706) 864-3513.

Holiday Gorge Floor Hike

Saturday, July 3 through Monday, July 5, 10:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls

This guided hike will take you from rim to river while learning about the gorge's unique environments. Be sure to wear proper footwear (no flip-flops or crocs). This hike is strenuous and will involve rock hopping and getting wet. Bring a lunch and lots of water. For ages 10 and older. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.

Old Fashioned Independence Day Celebration
Saturday, July 3
Tugaloo State Park - LavoniaEvents will begin with our 10 a.m. bicycle parade.  Old-time games on the ballfield at 1 p.m. include sack races, three-legged races, relays, egg and water balloon tosses, and other events.  At 3 p.m. we will hold our annual putt-putt torunament for ages 12 and younger.  $3 for putt-putt tournament, plus $5 parking.  (706) 356-4362.

Visiting Artist Series at Unicoi

Saturdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sundays, July 4, 11, 18 and 25, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen

The program lasts each weekend from Memorial Day through mid-November. Several talented artists and craftspeople from Georgia and surrounding states will demonstrate and have samples of their work for sale. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Saturday Evening Concert Series

Saturdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen

Every Saturday from Memorial Day through mid-November. Some of the best musicians in the area perform a variety of music, from Appalachian Mountain to bluegrass to Southern gospel. "Pass-the-hat" donations. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Independence Day at Vogel

Sunday, July 4, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Vogel State Park – Blairsville

Come to Vogel as we celebrate our independence with a special flag-raising ceremony. Also there will be a bicycle parade, pedal boat races, and sandcastle building competition, watermelon eating, sack races, egg tosses and greased pole climbing. $5 parking. (706) 745-2628.

Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals

Saturday, July 17, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Smithgall Woods Conservation Park – Helen

Children and their special "big person" can fish in a lake stocked with catfish, bass, and bream. Fish caught can be kept. Bring your own bait and rods. Some rods are available for loan. Call for directions to "Buck Shoals." $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.

Witch’s Head Excursion

Saturday, July 17, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Saturday, July 24, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls

This guided hike will take you to the bottom of the dam to view the witch's head rock and enjoy a relaxing lunch. Bring lots of water, lunch and proper foot wear. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.

Snakes Alive
Saturday, July 17, 8 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Tugaloo State Park - LavoniaThis reptile program includes live snakes to view up close and personal.  Meet at the amphitheater to learn about venomous and non-venomous snakes found in north Georgia.  $5 parking.  (706) 356-4362.

Chief Vann House Days

Saturday, July 24, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Chief Vann House Historic Site – Chatsworth

Watch 1800s crafts demonstrations at the 1804 mansion of Cherokee Indian plantation owner James Vann. Cherokee tribal members along with local demonstrators show the art of blacksmithing, soap making, weaving, spinning, quilting, doll making, chair and basket weaving, pottery, and much more. $3.50–$5. (706) 695-2598.

A Tribute To Georgia Authors

Saturday, July 24, 9 a.m.  – 4:45 p.m.

Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site – Dahlonega

Meet local and national authors who will bring their newest releases and older favorites. They will be glad to sign copies and add personal notes. $3.50- $5. (706) 864-2257.

Introduction to Nature Journaling

Saturday, July 24, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Smithgall Woods Conservation Park – Helen

Make a simple saddle-stitched booklet and learn techniques for recording your close encounters with nature. Artist Linda Lindeborg will help participants explore ideas for themed journals, learn basic drawing techniques, and investigate nature prints and rubbings. Then take a walk in the woods and do some sketching. Register by July 16. $25 plus $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.

Bat Blitz
Sunday, July 25, 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Fort Mountain State Park - ChatsworthKids of all ages can learn about these aerobatic mammals that eat mosquitoes and other insects.  Watch biologists as they net bats and teach about their fascinating wings and ears.  Browse bat displays and make bat crafts.  $5 parking.  (770) 918-6792.

Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike

Sunday, July 25, 8:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Monday, July 26, 9 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls

Join Tallulah Rangers on a moonlit hike down into the gorge. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.

Folk Life Traditions

Friday, July 30, 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Saturday, July 31, 10 a.m. – 9 a.m.

Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen

Watch demonstrations of everything from spinning to candle dipping, to butter churning. Concerts will feature traditional Appalachian and old-time mountain music. Festivities will include mountain skills displays, concerts, and Appalachian-style community dancing. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305. 

Birds of Prey
Saturday, July 31, 8 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Tugaloo State Park - LavoniaMeet at the amphitheater to learn about Georgia's owls, hawks and other birds of prey.  $5 parking. (706) 356-4362.

 

COASTAL GEORGIA

Cannons Across the Marsh
Saturday, July 3, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Fort King George Historic Site - DarienJoin the garrison for a day of artillery drills, musket firings and soldier's life activities to honor Independence Day. Free watermelon and lemonade will be served. $3.50-$5. (912) 437-4770.

Independence Day Colonial Faire

Saturday, July 3, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Fort Morris Historic Site – Midway

Celebrate the 4th with colonial games, contests of skill, colonial music, musket firings, cannon firings and activities. Prizes will be awarded to all participants. Sponsored by the City of Flemington, Ga. (912) 884-5999.

Independence Day Celebration

Saturday, July 3 through Sunday, July 4

Skidaway Island State Park – Savannah

Celebrate good times with a patriotic decorating contest (pets, yourself, your bikes, etc), hayrides, crafts, a greased pole climb and other challanges, and join in a campfire! $5 parking. (912) 598-2300.

Kayak the Salt Marsh
Sunday, July 4, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Crooked River State Park - St. Mary'sKayaking the marshes around Crooked River offers opportunities to look for birds and learn about the importance of the marsh ecosystem.  Reservations are required and space is limited.  $35 single, $45 tandem.  Call for family rates of 3 or more.  $5 parking.  (912) 882-5256.

July Fourth Celebration at Fort McAllister

Sunday, July 4, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Fort McAllister Historic Park – Richmond Hill

Come and celebrate our nation's birthday with Civil War troops as they fire special salutes for those who have died so we may be free. Also join us for period games and a cool slice of melon. Pack a lunch and enjoy the day. $3.50 - $5. (912) 727-2339.

SOUTHERN & CENTRAL GEORGIA

July 4^th Celebration

Friday, July 2 through Sunday, July 4, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Florence Marina State Park – Omaha

Celebrate the Fourth with games, watermelon eating contest, and educational boat tours. $4 plus $5 parking. (229) 838-4706.

Ol’ Time 4^th at Jarrell Plantation

Saturday, July 3, 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Jarrell Plantation Historic Site – Juliette

Demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills. Competitions in 3-legged race, sack race, egg toss and tug-of-war. A reading of the Declaration of Independence will be at noon. $3.50-$5.00 (478) 986-5172.

200th Birthday of Robert Augustus Toombs
Saturday, July 3, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Robert Toombs House Historic Site - WashingtonThis living-history event will honor Rober Toombs' life from acts: Act 1 "The Formative Years," Act ll "Baron of Wilkes County," Act lll "Premier of the Confederacy," Act lV "A Man Without a Country."  Refreshments will be served.  Free. (706) 678-2226.

Fireworks on the Flint

Sunday, July 4, 9:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Georgia Veterans State Park – Cordele

A spectacular display of fireworks highlights the Fourth of July. $5 parking. (229) 276-2371.

Thunder Over Thurmond
Saturday, July 10
Elijah Clark State Park - LincolntonBring chairs, a blanket and the whole family for a picnic and swimming before the annual fireworks show, which is sponsored by Lincoln and McCormick counties.  Fireworks begin at dark. $5 parking.  (706) 359-3458.

Geology Hike
Saturday, July 17, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Providence Canyon State Park - LumpkinJoin Professor Rich McWilliams of Thomas University from Thomasville, Georgia as he conducts a hike into the canyons so visitors will see one of the geologic wonders of the southeastern United States. Pre-registration is required due to limitations on group size.  $5 parking.  (229) 838-4706.

Ice Cream Social

Saturday, July 31, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

General Coffee State Park – Nicholls

Celebrate summer with boat races, ice cream social, old-fashioned kids games and more. $5-$6 plus $5 parking. (912) 384-7082.

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