Weekend Watch | The Pinkest Party on Earth: Your guide to the Cherry Blossom Festival kickoff weekend (and more spring family activities)
From concerts to parades, here’s what to expect during the opening weekend of the Cherry Blossom Festival in Macon.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – It’s almost time for the pinkest party on Earth! Friday marks the official kickoff of the 44th Cherry Blossom Festival, and Macon is ready to bring out the pink gear for a jam-packed weekend of festivities. Here’s some of the events on deck for the festival and beyond (for the full event schedule and more info on the festival, visit cherryblossom.com):
Kickoff ceremony | Friday, March 20, 12:00 p.m. – 1 p.m.
Join state and local dignitaries and the Cherry Blossom Board of Directors for the official opening ceremony. It’s the perfect way to show your pink pride and jump-start the festival!
AJ the DJ and Nightly Concert Series | Friday, March 20, 8 p.m. (Fridays/Saturdays), 7 p.m. (Sunday-Thursday)
The party continues Friday night as AJ the DJ takes over the Coca-Cola Entertainment Stage at Carolyn Crayton Park. After past rainouts, he’s back to open and close the 44th festival! Your $10 gate entry covers all the concerts throughout the 10-day Nightly Concert Series, with kids 10 and under getting in free. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy live music under the stars.
Pink Pancake Breakfast | Saturday, March 21, 7 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
After a night of music, join Macon-Bibb County firefighters at Historic Luther Williams Field for all-you-can-eat pink pancakes and breakfast favorites. Stick around for a friendly softball game between the Fire Department and Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Every bite supports United in Pink, helping local families facing breast cancer.
Saturday Fun on Cherry Street – Wiener Dog Race | Saturday, March 21, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
Cheer on speedy dachshunds as they race for the title of “Fastest Wiener Dog in Middle Georgia!”
Cherry Blossom Musical Chairs | Saturday, March 21, 1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Local celebrities and community members compete in hilarious inflatable animal costumes.
Bed Race | Saturday, March 21, 1:30 p.m.
Which team will take home the title this year? Don’t miss the action!
Late Night Comedy Night at The Garden Room | Saturday, March 21, 10 p.m.
Midnight Catch nationally touring comedians in an intimate setting with drink specials and plenty of laughs.
Springfest 2026 in Peach County | Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
North Peach Park in Byron transforms into a family fun zone with Easter Bunny photos, an egg hunt, performances, crafts, food trucks, and more—all for free!
Twiggs County Country Festival | Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Southern Grace Creations hosts a celebration featuring arts, crafts, baked goods, jams, jellies, salsa, food trucks and live gospel music. Shop, eat, and experience small-town charm.
Cherry Blossom Parade | Sunday, March 22, 3 p.m.
Wrap up the weekend with the Cherry Blossom Parade. Enjoy colorful floats, lively marching bands and family fun as the parade travels from Cherry Street to First and Mulberry Streets.
