Cultural Activities
Enjoying the benefits of Carroll
County's suburban-rural lifestyle does not mean sacrificing cultural
events usually found in the big city. In fact, newcomers will find a wealth of events centered around art, dance and theatre, plus many
opportunities to play a vital role in the life of the community.
Cultural events are so much a part of the quality of
life in Carroll County that the county and city governments provide funding to ensure
their prominence. These activities are coordinated by the Carrollton Parks, Recreation and
Cultural Events Department. This hard-working, innovative department has received several
awards and recognitions for the superior programs they have presented over the years, and
the community has long been proud of the opportunities it provides.
In 1978, a group of concerned citizens formed the Carroll County Cultural Arts Alliance
to help fill the community's needs in various media. From these efforts have come such
diverse activities as community theatre, community chorus, community band, children's
theatre, art exhibitions, a storytelling festival, violin classes, arts and crafts
attractions and special musical performances.
Serving in an advisory capacity to the Cultural Arts Division of the Carrollton Parks,
Recreation and Cultural Arts Department, the Alliance supports bringing quality art
exhibits and performances into the area. It assists and encourages local civic and
individual efforts in the arts and develops workshops, classes and demonstrations in
visual and performing arts for youth and adults. The Alliance's bi-monthly newsletter
keeps citizens informed of art activities and provides information on scheduled events at
the State University of West Georgia, local schools and other locations throughout the
west Georgia area.
The Alliance encourages membership among newcomers and local residents interested in
becoming supporters of the arts. For information on upcoming programs or ways to become
involved, call 770-832-1161.
One of the most valuable assets to the local cultural scene is the State University of
West Georgia, which recently completed a new Fine Arts complex to better serve the growing
needs of the college and community. The college is often the site of concerts, plays, art
shows and continuing education seminars.
Another important organization is the Carroll County Historical Society, which meets
the second Tuesday of each month. Devoted to preserving the unique historical and
architectural integrity of the community, the Historical Society welcomes new members.
Call 770-832-8016 for information on membership and current projects.
Four well-stocked public libraries - at Carrollton, Villa Rica, Bowdon and Mt. Zion -
provide opportunities for endless hours of pleasure and research with books, magazines,
videos, records, tapes, shows, displays and reference information.
The Atlanta Symphony, Ballet and High Museum of Art are only minutes away from Carroll
County, and local residents often take advantage of this close proximity to the South's
undisputed cultural center.
Carroll County's imminent livability and close-knit sense of community is a secret
waiting to be discovered! Through the years, many prominent citizens have made their homes
in Carroll County, valuing its beautiful countryside and easy-going way of life. Some of
these people include Academy Award-winning actress Susan Hayward, Coca-Cola executive Asa
Candler, clothing executive Warren Sewell, sculptor Julian Harris, nationally-known
minister Dr. Charles Allen, "Mark Trail" creator Ed Dodd, Gold Kist, Inc.
founder D.W. Brooks, and Southwire, Inc. founder Roy Richards.
The county contains houses of worship for all major religious denominations, providing
spiritual guidance and outlets for wholesome, family-oriented social life. The beauty of
the church buildings reflects the pride of the local citizens.
Newcomers will find unlimited ways to get involved in community life through the many
civic clubs and service organizations which contribute to the betterment of the area. A listing of annual area
events is below.
Cultural Events
The county plays host to many special events throughout the
year. These include:
- The Cherry Chase: Last Saturday in February
- Special Olympics: April event featuring Individual and team sports competition
for "special citizens" of all ages
- Mayfest: First Saturday in May
- Arts Gala: June art auction and entertainment
- Fourth of July Celebration
- Bowdon's Founders Day: First weekend in August
- Villa Rica's Gold Rush Days: Second weekend in September
- Autumn Leaves Arts & Crafts (John Tanner State Park): Last full weekend in
September
- Temple Fall Festival & Car Show: Last Saturday in September
- Whitesburg Arts & Crafts Festival: Second weekend in October
- Burwell Arts & Crafts Show: Second weekend in October
- Cherokee Rose Storytelling Festival: Second weekend in October (begins Thursday)
- Carroll County Fall Festival: Third weekend in October
- McIntosh Reserve Fall Festival: Last full weekend in October
- Off the Square Arts & Crafts Show: First weekend in November
