Things to do for the 4th

What’s Up My Eaters!

I hope you all have been doing well! Last week, I shared my shrimp ceviche recipe in honor of National Ceviche Day on June 28th. I hope you got to enjoy it, but if you missed it—or if you’d like to see it in action—here’s the [link to the video tutorial] that walks you through the exact process step-by-step.

Now, let’s get into this week.

When I was contemplating what to write, I was reminded of the time Gwen, myself, and a friend decided—on a whim—to drive to Savannah for the Fourth of July. It was a last-minute, “we’re young and free” type of decision. We had the time. We had the money. So we hit the road the next morning and made the four-hour drive south.

We got there before noon and hit the ground running. Since we were only there for the day, we packed in as much as we could, eating good food, enjoying the beach, and simply vibing together. Honestly, Eaters, I don’t remember much else… except for the worst traffic experience of my life.

We left Tybee Island as the sun was setting. It took us three hours just to get back to Savannah. Everyone was exhausted, and we all had to be at work early the next day. Staying overnight was not an option. Somehow, we made it back just in time for work—but that night I swore I’d never let the Fourth of July catch me in Savannah again.

So, in honor of that traumatic memory (and to save you from a similar fate), I put together a helpful list of Fourth of July events and activities happening in and around Fayette County this week.

🎉 Parades Always Draw a Crowd

Peachtree City Parade
🕘 July 4th at 9:00 AM
📍 Starts at Village on the Green (north of Braelinn Golf Course) and ends at McIntosh Trail Recreation Complex

Newnan City Parade
🕘 July 4th at 9:00 AM
📍 Starts at Veterans Memorial Park (Temple Avenue Park) and ends at Greenville Street Park

🎆 Festivals & Fireworks

Heritage Festival (Fayetteville)
📅 July 3–4
📍 Downtown Fayetteville & Town Park
Enjoy a craft market, heritage displays, live music, a hot dog eating contest, and more!

Peach State Block Party (Atlanta)
📅 July 4
📍 Underground Atlanta
This event features food trucks, games, live music, and a stunning fireworks finale over the city skyline.

Peachtree City Fireworks
🕘 Nightfall, July 4
📍 Over Lake Peachtree
Heads up: it’s usually packed! Plan your arrival and parking accordingly.

Fayetteville Fireworks
🕘 Nightfall, July 4
📍 Fayetteville Town Park

Rotary Club’s 4th of July Celebration (Newnan)
🕔 Starts at 5:00 PM
📍 Newnan High School
Features food vendors, live performances, and fireworks at 9:00 PM.

🌿 Want to Avoid the Crowds?

If crowds aren’t your thing, here are some alternative ways to enjoy the holiday:

Chattahoochee Bend State Park – Go for a hike, enjoy a picnic, or try geocaching. Be sure to stay hydrated and dress for the heat.
Grill Out at Home – There’s still time to plan a menu and invite a few friends over.
Gregg Farms (Concord, GA) – Pick peaches and treat yourself to the best peach ice cream you’ve ever had. (Closed on the 4th but open again Saturday.)
Relax and Recharge – You don’t have to go anywhere. Stay home, bond with family, start a tradition, or simply rest. That’s worth celebrating too.

Whatever you decide to do this Fourth of July, avoid the traffic, stay safe, make some memories, and—of course—eat well.

And please, never lose sight of the true reason for the holiday. Celebrate the birth of our country and the liberties we enjoy every day as Americans.

As always, come see me and the team every Saturday at the Peachtree City Farmers Market.Until next time,
Keep eating good and living well.