Historical-themed First Friday Draws Large Crowd to Downtown Watkinsville

Muskets fired and ladies paraded around Ashford on Main in period garb during a well-attended, historical-themed First Friday event on Aug. 2. 

"A History Circus" offered attendees a glimpse into Watkinsville's past with the help of the Oconee County Historical Society, the Rev. John Andrew Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution's Junior American Citizens, the Thomas Miller Chapter of the Colonial Dames of the 17th Century, and other organizations.  A local favorite, the Red Oak Southern String Band, delighted the crowd with a mix of traditional and contemporary bluegrass, folk and blues music.

Further down Main Street, children enjoyed train rides and face painting at Watkinsville First Christian Church. Pastor Doug Ivey spun pink cotton candy and church members distributed donated school supplies. 

Across from the courthouse, Mayor Charles Ivie and his wife Carol handed out free popcorn by the lawn of the Eagle Tavern, which was open for tours.   Volunteers with the GFWC Four Corners Woman's Club instructed kids on how to make bird feeders using peanut butter and pine cones. The North Georgia Two-Cylinder Club also gave away homemade ice cream and tractor rides. 

First Friday takes place each month from April through December. It is sponsored by the Watkinsville Trade and Tourism Association.

Did you go to First Friday? What was your favorite part of the evening? Share in the comments below and post your photos to our Boards.