Summerfest Rocks Winder This Week and Next

Although summer doesn’t officially begin until the summer solstice at 7:09 p.m. June 20, between the exciting conclusion of the 2011-12 school year for Barrow County students and the onset of Memorial Day weekend, we can all agree that the unofficial launch of summer occurs this week.

What better time than now to host a family-friendly, entertaining carnival and music festival rolled into one?  The city of Winder welcomes the return of Summerfest, now through June 3.

After debuting last year to rave reviews from residents, Winder brings back this event dedicated to fun for the whole family, featuring food, games, rides, excitement, thrills and music. Oh, and did we mention there will be rides?

Hosted next to the inside Jug Tavern Park, Winder Summerfest will showcase live entertainment in the Pavilion during the weekend. The ”jam”-packed schedule includes: Friday May 25: Daily Dying; Saturday May 26: Mike McIntire, Vertically Challenged, Arcado, Southern Relics, Scarlet Stitch and ShowTime; Sunday May 27: mobile DJ service By Kelly Martin; and Monday May 28: Not Quite Devils. 

This year’s Winder Summerfest will be open:

• 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday, May 24 & 31, Tuesday, May 29, and Wednesday, May 30
• 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 25 and June 1
• Noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 26 and June 2
• 1 to 10 p.m. Sunday, May 27 and June 3
• Noon to 10 p.m. Memorial Day, Monday, May 28

For Barrow Patch readers who wish to attend the carnival this evening, $16 unlimited ride wristbands — normally $25 — are on sale today, May 24, at Winder City Hall while supplies last. Discount coupons for $5 off an unlimited ride wristband are available by clicking here. Coupons are limited to one per person and are redeemable at the Midway ticket booth from 5 to 10 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, or 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday through Monday.

What is your all-time favorite carnival ride and "guilty pleasure" carnival food? Tell us in comments. 

Check back every Thursday for a new City Spotlight on Winder.