The cold weather has officially passed, and Statesboro is alive again with an impressive lineup of springtime events, inviting people back outside and bringing the community together in new ways. From heart-pumping outdoor concerts to captivating live shows to uniquely Statesboro happenings and hubs like the Main Street Farmers’ Market, Kiwanis Rodeo and Splash in the Boro, this southern town has no shortage of to-dos.
The tight-knit community of locals and students welcomes anyone and everyone to spend spring in Statesboro in the best ways they know how — with arts, music and sunshine!
LIVE MUSIC
The city is again hosting local favorites and big names on charming East Main Street in front of the Bulloch County Courthouse to celebrate the season with DOWNTOWN LIVE. Jazz, blues and folk tunes promise to fill downtown on three Thursday evenings in April and May. Catch The Tams' soulful sounds and beachy rhythms on April 18, the dynamic powerhouse band Papa Sol on May 2, and Liquid Pleasure’s dance-worthy jams on May 30. All concerts in this series will be free and open to the public, starting at 7 p.m. Plan to bring a lawn chair, grab food and drinks and hang out for a while!
Amidst this slew of outdoor performers, Statesboro will also host GATAJAM, its largest concert in over a decade. No one is more fit to headline this musical extravaganza than Cole Swindell, country music star and Georgia Southern alumni. Alongside Swindell, other country music stars like Rhett Akins, Jon Langston and Mackenzie Carpenter will take the stage at Beautiful Eagle Creek. Plan to arrive by 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, to enjoy food vendors and catch these outstanding acts on a night that country music fans will remember forever. Tickets are selling fast, so grab yours now!
PERFORMING ARTS
With two premier arts centers, each boasting dazzling auditoriums, there’s nowhere better than Statesboro to immerse your theatrical side. The curtains will rise for three performances this spring: one laugh inducing, one thought provoking and one classically captivating.
The Averitt Center for the Arts will kick things off on April 4–7 in the Emma Kelly Theater with its local production of Nunsense, a quirky play that follows three wacky nuns and their antics as they work to raise funds for their convent. Attendees will be delighted by star turns, tap and ballet dancing, audience interaction and comical surprises delivered throughout the show.
Following Nunsense, Georgia Southern’s Performing Arts Center has two incredible shows lined up. Seeking thrills for the family? Catch Dinosaur World Live on Thursday, April 11, an interactive Jurassic adventure that takes audiences back to a time when dinosaurs roamed, featuring life-like replicas of prehistoric creatures. Looking for something a little more relaxing? Let the smooth sounds of the Eric Mintel Quartet soothe you with their expertise and talent in contemporary jazz on Thursday, April 25. Tickets to both of these shows are available to purchase online.
OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS
Springtime in Statesboro brings mild temperatures, a bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables and even the occasional chance to get a little wet. Experience the outdoors in your own way at one of the town’s upcoming open-air events.
The festivities begin on Saturday, April 6, the opening day of the locally loved Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market. The market opens at 9 a.m. behind the Visit Statesboro building off Main Street. Show your support for Statesboro’s makers and growers by picking up a handcrafted gift, fresh produce or sweet, homemade sips including coffee and lemonade.
"Beyond being a hub for fresh, locally sourced produce, it serves as a gathering place where residents can connect with one another, support small businesses, and celebrate the rich agricultural heritage of our region,” said Becky Sanders, president and CEO of Visit Statesboro. “It's a cornerstone of our city's cultural identity and a testament to the vibrant spirit of Statesboro."
In addition to agriculture, Statesboro plans to celebrate its flourishing arts community this spring at its annual ArtsFest. This free-to-the-public event promises to bring out the creative spirit of all who attend. Sweetheart Circle will be packed with artists, activities and interactive booths on Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plan to visit the creation stations for artsy activities like tie-dyed T-shirts and make-your-own crafts. Then, stop by the Community Stage for live musical performances throughout the day. The festival also features an artist market where you can browse handmade gifts like jewelry, accessories and art prints.
Following ArtsFest, thrill seekers should plan to saddle up for the 13th annual Statesboro Kiwanis Rodeo. The weekend of April 25–27 promises to be action-packed! Rodeo fanatics can expect all their favorite spectacles, including bareback bronco riding, barrel racing, bull riding, calf roping and more. There will be games, races and competitions for children and adults hoping to get a piece of the action, as well as rodeo treats and merchandise for those looking to take it all in from afar. Tickets will be available to purchase online beginning Monday, April 1.
Finally, send off spring and splash into summer on the opening weekend of Splash in the Boro, May 18–19. Families can spend a full day at the waterpark, soaking up the sun and enjoying the wave pool, lazy river, water slides, play pools and more. Start prepping for summer and plan your weekend today!
Whether you’re a concertgoer, theater fanatic, artist or adventurer, Statesboro is the place to be this season. With sun-soaked streets, blooming flowers and a bustling social scene, there’s no better way to ring in spring. Head to Visit Statesboro for trip-planning resources and more information on all upcoming events.