Events

Originally created to celebrate the arts, each month we host the community and area visitors to come check out what makes Downtown Americus such a great place to visit, shop and dine. Some months have themes like Artsapalooza, Flashback Friday, and Downtown Tailgate. Every month hundreds come out to stroll our streets on the First Friday evening and enjoy everything that downtown can offer. If you are interested in sponsoring a First Friday, please contact us directly. You are also welcome to suggest your own level and benefits.

The annual “Taste of Sumter” is a countywide event focused on locally-owned Sumter County-based restaurants, catering companies and other establishments that produce food/consumable items. Maintaining the “Shop Local” theme, there will be no national chain food vendors at the event. This event is intended for families and friends to come out and enjoy the culinary aspect of Sumter County. Sponsorships can be given for the musical performances, beverages, or the general event.

The first ever Food Truck Fest is an event full of delicious food and fun! This event will include the best of the best food truck vendors from around the region, arts and crafts vendors, live music, and more. This event is intended for families and friends to come out and enjoy great food and entertainment. Sponsorships are available for musical performances, beer and wine, or the entire event.

The annual Downtown Christmas Open House event is popular amongst the locals of Sumter County and surrounding counties. The businesses downtown are open showcasing their holiday merchandise. Participants can expect to visit with Santa, sample chestnuts, enjoy carriage rides, take advantage of great shopping discounts, and more. The most popular of Christmas in Downtown Americus is the lighting of the big Christmas tree and the Parade of Trees that surround it, all lit and decorated with a special message to all. Sponsorships for this event are available upon request.

Make this holiday season extra special by participating in the annual Parade of Trees event in Downtown Americus. It’s your chance to light up the town and spread joy in honor of those you love or to promote your business or organization.

🌟 Sponsor a Tree for a Special Cause: 🌟

1. Tribute to Our Heroes: Dedicate a tree to someone serving in the military who can’t be home for Christmas. Show your appreciation for their sacrifices and let their spirit shine in the heart of Americus.

2. In Loving Memory: Remember your loved ones who are no longer with us by sponsoring a tree in their honor. Keep their memory alive and share the warmth of the season with others.

3. Promote Your Business or Organization: Bring your brand into the spotlight during this festive time! Sponsor a tree to showcase your business or community group, and let your holiday spirit shine through.

This event has been based around the chili cook-off which brings out several hundred people to taste excellent locally-made chili. Approximately 16 entries participate in the event. This event includes musical performances in several stores as well as art demonstrations and great food & drinks to enjoy throughout the evening. Sponsorships are available for specific chili locations, musical performances, or the entire event. We invite your suggestions.

Although the name says it all, this event is designed for the No. 1 shopper in the family. We will have several locations available to taste amazing wines, as well as, locations to taste the most decadent chocolates. Attendees will receive a tasting glass and passport to guide them through the downtown and each will have a chance to win great prizes, and everyone will go home with their own “goody bag” filled with chocolates and wine-related gifts. Suggestions are welcome.

Tapping Americus’ rich history of artisan glass blowing and combining it with Georgia’s innovative craft brewing culture, Hot Glass Craft Beer fuses these – two artisan worlds together in one epic event. This event provides festival participants an opportunity to experience regional breweries with a variety of beers from each, along with live mobile glass-blowing by artists from all across the country. Through this event we aim to expand local access to a wider range of finely crafted brews while increasing awareness of the art of mobile glass blowing. New sponsors are encouraged to become a part of this event as it continues to grow. Suggestions are welcome.

The annual Americus Christmas Parade is a festive celebration that brings our community together like never before. The parade is a beloved tradition that draws thousands of people to the heart of our town. With more than 70 entries each year, it’s a sight to behold – floats adorned with twinkling lights, marching bands filling the air with holiday favorites, festively decorated vehicles and walkers, and Santa Claus himself spreading cheer to all. The excitement and joy of the season is contagious, making this event a must-see for families, friends, and neighbors. Don’t miss out on the most magical event of the year!