Athenians can join in the national celebration as America celebrates 243 of independence. The Star Spangled Classic is this Saturday, June 29 in downtown Athens. District 7 Commissioner Russell Edwards says he’s pleased the festivities are once again downtown.
“Downtown is the heart of Athens, it’s situated right in the middle of town, it’s in walking distance of a lot of our great neighborhoods in town,” Edwards said.
“It’s where most of the commercial activity happens in the community, it’s where the courthouse is, City Hall, the University of Georgia so it really is the life blood of our community and makes a great natural meeting place for all the citizens to get together.”
Edwards says the family-friendly event features several free activities as well as local dessert vendors.
“The festival activities begin at 5 pm this Saturday, June 29th, and it includes live music from the Funk Brotherhood, children’s activities lead by Ladybug Events and local dessert vendors.”
This year, events have moved from Washington Street to Clayton Street.
Athenians heading out to the Star Spangled Classic will encounter several road closures. The fireworks will be launched from the Classic Center Parking Deck, according to the ACCPD.
At 7 am Saturday, the city will begin restricting access to the Upper Deck of the deck. At 10 am Clayton street will close at the intersection of Jackson Street.
At 4 pm, it closes at College Avenue. At 9 pm Thomas Street will close at East Broad and Hancock Avenue and Foundry Street will close at East Broad and Dougherty Street.
