Residents across the Augusta area and surrounding communities have an expansive roster of entertainment and cultural outings to choose from throughout the weekend of September 11 through September 13. With an array of festivities spread across the region, local organizers are offering events tailored for music lovers, history enthusiasts, pet owners, and families looking for outdoor recreation.
Community organizers note that local weekend schedules offer a strong balance of educational showcases and engaging public entertainment. While schedules and ticket availability are subject to change, sellouts, or weather-related adjustments, attendees are encouraged to plan ahead to secure their spots at the variety of regional happenings.
Aviation history takes center stage at the Augusta Regional Airport on Saturday, September 12, with the arrival of the Georgia Barnstorming Tours. This traveling exhibition offers community members a direct look at the engineering and heritage of early aerial combat and transport.
During the event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Commemorative Air Force Airbase Georgia fleet will showcase a selection of vintage World War II-era aircraft. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to inspect the historic planes up close on the tarmac and speak with knowledgeable crew members about their operational history.
In addition to ground viewings, attendees can schedule flight experiences in advance aboard the preserved aircraft. While flight reservations must be arranged prior to taking to the skies via the organization's official website, general admission to walk the grounds and observe the historic fleet remains completely free to the public.
Augusta Regional Airport, located at 1501 Aviation Way, will also serve as the venue for another family-oriented gathering on Saturday morning with the return of the interactive "Meet a Machine" event.
Scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., "Meet a Machine" is designed to give visitors of all ages an up-close, hands-on encounter with an assortment of working vehicles. Multiple public service agencies and commercial enterprises will transport equipment to the airfield, giving attendees direct access to heavy machinery and utility vehicles.
General admission for "Meet a Machine" is set at $5 for adults, while children aged 12 and younger can enter the event free of charge. The exhibition is arranged to promote curiosity and interactive learning for younger visitors eager to see how modern service vehicles operate.
For those interested in unique fauna, the Warren Road Community Center at 300 Warren Road in Augusta is hosting the traveling Show Me Reptile Show! across both weekend days.
The exotic animal expo features a wide selection of reptiles, amphibians, and small exotic mammals. Guests will have opportunities to observe live creatures, take photographs, and gain insights from exhibitors regarding proper animal care, habitat setup, and species characteristics.
Along with educational displays, the gathering offers commercial opportunities for reptile enthusiasts. Various animals will be available for purchase directly from vendors, alongside essential husbandry equipment, terrarium gear, and food supplies required for responsible pet ownership.
The reptile show runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. Standard advance admission costs $12 for adults and $5 for children between the ages of 7 and 12, with children aged 6 and younger admitted free. At the door, adult tickets are $15, while early-access VIP passes are available for $17 in advance or $20 at the entrance.
Live music enthusiasts can venture to nearby Thomson for the 32nd Annual Blind Willie McTell Music Festival, celebrating American roots music and honoring the legacy of the famed regional bluesman.
The centerpiece of the festival takes place on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 965 Stagecoach Road NE in Thomson. This year's headline performance will be delivered by acclaimed band Los Lobos, known for their distinct fusion of rock, blues, Tex-Mex, and traditional Americana traditions.
Festivities begin a day early with a community kickoff concert on Friday evening from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 111 Railroad Street in Thomson. The opening night performance features Blair Crimmins and The Hookers and is offered to the public completely free of charge.
Because the Friday kickoff and festival stages are situated outdoors, concertgoers are advised to bring their own lawn chairs or portable seating. Attendees are welcome to bring outside food to the venue, though organizers note that alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited on site.
(0)