Athens, get ready to light up like a firecracker because the Star Spangled Classic is back, and it's bringing a deluge of free entertainment to Southeast Clarke Park on June 29 for the whole family to enjoy. You heard it right, folks – grab your picnic blankets and get ready for a spectacle. The Athens-Clarke County Unified Government has announced it's all set to throw a patriotic bash like no other.
The activities kick off at 6:00 p.m. sharp with carnival rides, bouncy houses, and a photo booth positioned on the Lexington Road fields. And the melody to your ears? The Original Splitz will be rocking the stage from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., as confirmed by a statement obtained by Athens-Clarke County Unified Government. Hungry revelers can head over to the righteous food truck court, because what's Independence Day without some munchies, right? Now, the cherry on top: the fireworks show that'll paint the night sky is slated for 9:30 p.m.
For those who prefer to roll up in their rides, listen closely – parking at the park is a classic first-come, first-served deal, and it opens at 5:30 p.m. A snazzy shuttle service offered by Athens Transit will run from the nearby Wal-Mart for those parked offsite. Be aware: once the parking lot is full, no cars will be allowed in. Better be early or you'll be watching fireworks from your car! And for those rule enthusiasts, the usual drill applies – no booze, no personal fire bangs, no smoking, and leave Fido at home. This isn't a BYOG (bring-your-own-grill) fest either.
Now don’t be that guy who blocks driveways or parks on the side of the road – respect the neighbors, folks. Remember, no overnight parking and the park closes right after the grand finales. And if you’re thinking about playing foster parent for the Fourth, give the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government Animal Services Department a shout; they're running their "Foster for the Fourth" program yet again. If Mother Nature decides to throw her own waterworks, the event has a rain date for June 30.
The folks at the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government and the Leisure Services Department are the masterminds behind this extravaganza. So mark your calendars, Athens – it’s gonna be a star-spangled night to remember.
