Georgia Days: Hitting the Road for Jacksonville

This weekend, thousands of people will flock to Jacksonville for the rivalry of all rivalries, the Georgia vs. Florida football game.  Whether you have a ticket to the game or not, chances are you know where you will be staying during the weekend.  However, Georgia Days is happy to provide some other information you might need before hitting the open road and driving down South.

Fall Break begins on Friday and so do the events in Jacksonville.  In the mood for some music before you begin celebrating the world’s largest cocktail party?  Corey Smith is performing in concert at The Florida Theater at 9 p.m. and AC/DC will be performing their Black Ice Tour at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena at 8 p.m.  Tickets are still available for both concerts.

Thursday through Saturday, the Jacksonville Landing bars and participating hotels will be putting on live music, contests and provide a live game broadcast for those who don’t have tickets to the game.  The Landing offers a fun atmosphere throughout gameday weekend.  Tickets to these events will cost $10 per person.

Next to the Veterans Memorial Arena is City Hall Pub, which will be celebrating “Rocktoberfest” Wednesday through Sunday.  “Live music, great food and fun,” are promised and the music ranges from Southern and classic rock to disco to reggae to hard rock to tribute and original Jacksonville bands.  All events are free.

Saturday, college rock bands will perform during the pre-game party and then City Hall Pub will feature a live broadcast of the game on multiple big screen HD TVs.  You can also join in with other fans for an after-party and Halloween bash.  After all, while in Jacksonville, why not celebrate Halloween?

All day Saturday, the Jacksonville Municipal Stadium will host a Championship Dreams Festival beginning at 10 a.m. and lasting until the end of the game.  This free festival will include giant jumbotrons that show the game for fans without tickets that want to join in on the fun.  Also, autograph sessions, interactive sports and games, face painting and temporary tattoos, food vendors and Gator and Bulldog merchandise will be available.  You can even make a dance video with your friends at the Pop Noggins booth.  The festival will be located between the South End Zone and Adams Street.

Jacksonville offers some great online directories to help you find the best ways to enjoy your weekend.  There are a wide variety of restaurants to choose from and the shopping districts promise a myriad of possible souvenirs for your trip.  There is also a listing for bars and clubs and happy hours, should you decide to get your party on in Jacksonville.  But be sure to check out need-to-know information about parking, transportation, bridge closures and safety tips before you go.  Curious for more tips?  Check out this helpful article from a fan who knows.

And as always, party responsibly and GO DAWGS!