HISTORIC CANTON
PEOPLE | DINING | SHOPPING | EVENTS | CULTURE
The Spirit of Reformation
is buildingCOMMUNITY
Reformation Brewery doesn’t just brew beer. It builds community. It backs bold ideas. And it’s quietly reshaping what a brewery can mean to a town like Canton.
ucked into The Mill on Etowah, Reformation is more than a local hangout. It’s a gathering place—part brewery, part event space, and part creative hub. It’s where people show up to connect, collaborate, and celebrate.
Spencer Nix, Reformation’s co-founder and CEO, saw the potential of The Mill more than 20 years ago. Back then, it was nothing more than a forgotten piece of local history. But he snapped a photo that day—a blurry, unremarkable image that still hangs on his fridge.
For him, it’s a reminder of how far things can come when you stay the course.
That long view shaped Reformation’s growth. What started with craft beer has evolved into something much bigger. Today, the team serves up small-batch bourbon, hard seltzers, vodka lemonades, sparkling waters, and cocktails you won’t find anywhere else. But none of it is about novelty. It’s about intentionality.
building Reformation
“We’re not here to chase trends,” Nix says. “Everything we make is built around community input and crafted with care. If it doesn’t serve people well, we don’t do it.”
That approach fueled the 2022 launch of Reformation Craft Spirits—a project that started as a quiet experiment before the pandemic and grew into a cornerstone of the business. Every product is made in small batches and finished onsite. There’s a reason it tastes like North Georgia: it is North Georgia.
Their current offerings include a signature bourbon, Peach Tee Vodka Lemonade, Blueberry Ranch Water, and rotating seasonal cocktails like the newly released Skinny Margarita. You can find them at Reformation’s Canton and Woodstock locations—served with the kind of hospitality that invites you to slow down and stay awhile.
That idea—real connection over fast consumption—drives everything they do.
“We exist to liberate moments that matter,” Nix says. “Put the phone down. Look someone in the eye. Talk. Laugh. Grieve. Celebrate. Whatever it is— do it with intention.”
And people do. With over 200 events planned this year, Reformation is a constant pulse in Canton. Trivia nights, open mics, community fundraisers, weddings, even memorials. It’s all happened here. Because this place isn’t just a venue. It’s a part of people’s lives.
One night stands out for Nix: the first open mic. His teenage daughter stepped up to perform. That night, she met other musicians and started booking gigs. It wasn’t just a setlist. It was a turning point. That’s what Reformation does—it makes space for stories to unfold.
Collaboration is baked into their DNA. They’ve created special beers with local chefs and restaurants like La Cantina and RCB. They’ve hosted artists, musicians, and makers of all kinds. On any given weekend, you’re just as likely to hear live music or run into a neighbor as you are to try a new drink.
As for the space itself, upgrades are already underway. The team is building smaller, more welcoming nooks inside the expansive venue. The goal? Make it feel more like a “third place”—a home away from home that’s not your couch or your office.
And while the drinks are great, not everything here is alcoholic. Reformation offers still and sparkling waters for those who want a different kind of refreshment. It’s part of their broader philosophy: real ingredients, real choices, and moderation without judgment.
Of course, it hasn’t all been smooth. Nix is the first to admit they’ve stumbled along the way.
“We’ve made mistakes—some of them big,” he says. “Not everyone will forgive us. But many have. And that means everything.”
That kind of honesty runs deep. Reformation isn’t trying to be perfect. It’s trying to be real. That’s why the name fits. Reformation is about growth, about reckoning with the past and using it to build something better.
Reformation does more than serve drinks. It’s serving redemption. It’s serving community. It’s fitting that they chose the name “Reformation.” As Nix puts it, “History isn’t all roses. But every part of it is valuable if we let it make us better tomorrow.”
So, whether you’re raising a glass of bourbon cherry cola, jamming out to a local band, or quietly reflecting on a photo from 20 years ago, Reformation Canton invites you to be part of the story. Not just as a guest, but as a neighbor. A creator. A reformer.
Because here in Canton, it’s not just about what’s on tap. It’s about what’s possible. •
Reformation Coffee Liqueur makes a delicious addition to anything sweet!
spicingDOWNTOWN LA CANTINA ON MAIN
La Cantina serves up cuisine from the northeast region of Mexico using grass-fed Angus beef cooked over a grill and offered up with delicious accompaniments.
For those wanting to try “real” Mexican food from the region near Monterrey instead of the usual Tex-Mex fare often served stateside, then a visit La Cantina on Main in historic downtown Canton should be on the menu.
The restaurant is prominently located in a storefront on East Main Street that has in the past served as an ice cream parlor, a general store, and even a post office around the turn of the century. But many locals remember the brick building as the former Kessler’s five and dime store during the mid-twentieth century.
The team of Guillermo “Memo” Pomares and Ramon and Freddie Benitez have poured decades of experience in the restaurant industry into La Cantina as a labor of love, focusing on quality ingredients and family recipes to bring the authentic cuisine of northeast Mexico for you to experience, from appetizers all the way through desserts.
The owners describe the menu as focused on Mexican “cook-out” food—not street food—and in Mexico as in the United States men are heavily involved in outdoor cooking/grilling. Still, they give their wives much credit, saying “if it has to simmer in the kitchen, or cook for a long time, then the women make it, and we relied upon them to make it authentic.” Memo’s mom, who lives in Mexico, even came into the restaurant while visiting her family and taught the cooks how to make Conchas, a popular dessert.
Keeping the experience authentic isn’t cheap: ingredients cost more, and it’s more labor intensive.
A tour of the kitchen showcases the staff curing and seasoning a new molcajete (mortar and pestle), a laborious process that involves grinding rice and salt to a fine powder, followed by spice grinding, before it’s used. Since the northeast region of Mexico is blessed with pastureland, the food is meat-focused, and most of it is grilled over a wood fire.
Everything on the menu is made in-house, including baked goods and desserts. And authenticity extends not just to what you eat, but also when you eat it: traditional winter foods like tamales and posole, and summer foods like céviche and other seafoods, are only on the menu seasonally. The goal is for the customers to get to experience the culture and cuisine of northeast Mexico, which is quite different from what you get anywhere else.
Since opening in September of last year, the menu has changed repeatedly, and the owners see this continuing. New dishes are often created and tested during special events like tequila tastings, holiday dinners, or private events held in their events venue. If they are well received, they make the menu. The desserts menu, for example, has already had half a dozen menu changes. They make their own dulce de leche ice cream because they couldn’t source anything that tastes authentic.
Marfa, Texas, native Conrado Nuñez says, “From the moment I walked in, the restaurant and the atmosphere was welcoming and inviting. Their food is a celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine, traditional recipes that transport you straight to Mexico.” He’s also a fan of the décor and the friendly staff.
Freddie says the same care and attention to detail went into the bar. Tequilas are carefully screened and selected, and Margarita recipes are tested and tweaked until perfect before they make the menu or find their way into a Tequila Tasting event.
More than just a business venture, these men have been friends for many years. They care about each other and everyone who walks through the door. Their goal is to bring you a meal and a dining experience that you’ll remember long after you leave, with flavors that you just won’t find anywhere else, except in Nueva Leon, Mexico. •
La Cantina serves up a variety of flavorful offerings throughout the day at the popular restaurant in the heart of Historic Downtown Canton.
THE ETOWAH TRAIL NETWORKconnecting
Our Past to Our Future
In the mid-1970s, a troop of Boy Scouts began an ambitious project to take an existing footpath along the Etowah River and turn it into a public-use nature and historic trail. What began as a two-mile stretch has ultimately become a ten-mile network of trail loops, with colorcoded trail markers for specific loops that all feed back into the main white trail.
As it was being built, Mayor Cecil Boling encouraged the troop to have its main access where a city park was in the planning stages. The white trail has a history that dates to the native peoples, and each Mother’s Day weekend the park that bears Mayor Boling’s name hosts a powwow that celebrates Native American culture.
Boling Park is but one of three city parks that run along the Etowah River, and an equally ambitious project by Canton’s Parks and Recreation Department is nearing completion that creates a paved trail connecting them all. You’ll be able to follow the river from where it enters the city limits in the north to where it exits the city limits in the west, traversing just over six miles to do so. The multi-year effort already connects Etowah River Park to Heritage Park, and the final
connection that will link Heritage Park to Boling Park should be completed in early 2026.
City of Canton Engineer Bethany Watson is set to oversee the construction of a pedestrian bridge over the Etowah River linking the trail to The Mill on Etowah in the next phase of the project. It will connect The Mill to that section of the trail that winds through the old Crescent Farm, which was owned by Augustus “Gus” Coggins. He built the Rock Barn and raised horses including one that is in the Harness Racing Hall of Fame there in the early 20th century.
Just like the Boy Scout trails, the Etowah River Trail also has nature trails and paved loops along the way, branching off the direct route, which allow for treks as short as a half mile or as long as ten miles. A recently completed Master Plan by the City of Canton is using the community’s input to make further improvements including to add more benches for rest stops, create more shaded areas along the route, and add more trash containers to ensure the trails stay pristine.
A trail marking system that will help track distance and provide direction is under consideration. Adam Dodson, Canton Parks and Recreation manager, says that maintenance is a top priority.
“We want our citizens to be proud of all our parks. They need to be clean, well-maintained, with features that attract people of all ages and levels of health.”
Rivers served as the original interstate highways in the days before Canton was even called Canton, and the area near Boling Park is believed to have housed a Cherokee settlement called Red Bank.
When you walk the white trail the Boy Scouts constructed, it follows the route they used, and which after their removal in 1838
settlers used as the connection between the Canton and Sutallee communities, which some have come to call “the Sutallee Trace.”
Starting at the pavilion at the north end of Etowah Park, and heading south on the paved path through Heritage Park, then west through Boling Park, those using the trail system will pass both old Canton Cotton Mills and Crescent Farm.
Walkers and hikers can leave the paved path and walk even farther back in history, following the Boy Scout trails along the Sutallee Trace,
Etowah River Trails
which also include a couple of marked locations where remnants of moonshine stills were found.
Boling Park is located at 1098 Marietta Highway and the Boy Scout Trails can be found at the back of the gravel walking track along the Etowah River. Etowah River Park is at 600 Brown Industrial Parkway and includes a one-half mile concrete walking trail connecting to Etowah River Trail and Heritage Park, and a bridge crossing over the Etowah River. Heritage Park is at 508 Riverstone Parkway and features a one-mile concrete walking trail connecting to Etowah River Trail and Etowah River Park. •
For more information about the trail system visit CantonGA.gov.
From Bleach Tees to
brick and mortar
Meet the BRAINS behind Flair Blonde
In the heart of downtown Canton on North Street sits one of the most charming boutiques in Cherokee County. But behind the Flair Blonde’s curated racks and cheerful displays is the story of a small-town girl with big determination—and the grit to match.
Codie Bozeman never imagined she’d be the owner of three thriving boutiques across north Georgia.
“I grew up in Jasper,” she says. “We didn’t have a lot growing up. My parents are from there, too, so it’s always been home. But I knew I’d have to work hard if I wanted something different.”
Her retail journey didn’t begin with a business plan or a fancy storefront—it started in her yard. “I was bleaching and printing T-shirts by hand—sometimes 50 to 100 shirts a week. I’ve always been artistic and had an eye for fashion, so it just kind of snowballed.”
Encouraged by her husband and best friend, Codie took the leap and opened her first store in Jasper. “I didn’t
have any family to help,” she shares. “My dad had just had a stroke. I used every bit of money we had—I think I had about $500 left in my checking account when I opened.”
What she did have was technology and social media savvy. She started sharing her journey on social media, and her followers grew. Obviously, Codie found a niche; that is, curated fashion that flattered women of every size. Her boho-chic sensibility and clever pictures, along with her girl-next-door models, spawned a devoted following.
What happened next at the grand opening of the Jasper store was nothing short of extraordinary.
“It took me an hour and a half to let everyone into my building,” Codie recalls. “Cars were lined down the road. I had no idea it would be that big. I made money that day—about four times what I’d invested.”
Word spread fast. “People came from everywhere— Hiawassee, Helen, North Carolina—just because they saw it on social media,” she says. “From that day on, every time I posted something, it would sell out.”
The buzz led to more storefronts, including one in Blue Ridge and finally, her favorite location: Canton.
“I really wanted to be in a historic downtown area, and Canton gave me that,” she says." The building itself has so much character—it was built in 1936 and, according to my landlord, some of the bricks were salvaged from the old First Baptist Church of Canton after it burned down in the 1800s.”
Known locally as the Tippens building, the structure once housed a hardware store. “If you step back and look at the bricks, you can see where they used different ones,” Codie says. “I love that kind of history. If I ever get the chance, I’d love to tear out the sheetrock and show off the original brick.”
CANTON ALSO OFFERED SOMETHING ELSE—COMMUNITY.
“The support I’ve gotten here has been incredible,” Codie says. “I love the way the city runs events like First Fridays. Everyone’s so welcoming.”
Her Canton boutique, Flair Blonde, reflects her signature blend of boho-chic and everyday wearability. But what really sets it apart is her commitment to authenticity. “I use real girls for my photos,” she says. “All shapes and
sizes. Not everyone’s a size two or six feet tall, and I want people to see themselves in what we sell.”
It hasn’t all been easy. Codie has faced her share of pushback from others in the industry. “I hate to say it, but not everyone wants to see you succeed,” she admits. “I almost shut my store down once because of it. But I prayed about it. I’m a Christian, and I believe God gave me this business. So I just kept going.”
And go she did—straight to success. She has since rebranded the Jasper store with her two lifelong best friends.
Today, Flair Blonde has a loyal following both online and in-store. Codie runs a thriving Facebook group with more than 7,500 members and leans heavily into social media marketing. “You have to post every day, sometimes twice a day,” she says. “Good photography helps, too. Showing the clothes on real bodies makes a huge difference.”
AS FOR WHAT’S NEXT?
“I’d love to grow the Canton location more,” she says. “But honestly, I’m happy where I am. I’d really love to have a baby in the next few years—that’s the next big dream.”
Codie’s not trying to build an empire. She’s just building a life— one that reflects who she is: creative, determined, and full of heart. •
Visit Flair Blonde as 182 North Street in Downtown Canton or find them on Facebook at The Flair Blonde.
Neighborhooddeeply ROOTED IN CITY’S PAST
Nestled on 55 heavily wooded acres and overlooking the historic Canton Golf Club links, the Breeze Hill neighborhood has strong ties to Canton’s history.
Known for its charming ambiance and historical significance. Breeze Hill’s lush landscapes and serene ambiance make it a coveted residential area for those seeking tranquility within the lively city of Canton.
The neighborhood is known for its picturesque views, mature trees, and the sense of community among its residents. The land, once a verdant expanse, has been thoughtfully developed to harmonize with the natural beauty that defines Breeze Hill.
Nestled in the heart of Canton, Breeze Hill offers a glimpse into the past, while highlighting the elegance and character that it has preserved over the decades.
The popular community of homes was developed in the mid-1970s on land once owned by the Jones family and Canton Textile Mills. Canton Cotton Mills President Louis Lindley Jones Sr. and his wife Pearl Turner Jones built the beautiful white brick home in 1950, and it is now the centerpiece of the community.
Breeze Hill is comprised of about 40 homes on heavily wooded lots of one to two acres. Most of the homes were built in the early 1980s.
The 1980s were a time of architectural evolution, with various styles reflecting the changing tastes and cultural influences of the era. Homes in Breeze Hill reflect the period, showcasing a blend of historical charm and modern innovation.
One of the most popular architectural styles in the 1980s traditional neighborhoods was Colonial Revival. This style drew inspiration from the early American colonial architecture, characterized by symmetrical facades, gabled roofs, and classical details such as columns and pediments. Homes in this style often featured brick or wood siding and multi-pane windows, creating a timeless and dignified appearance.
For Wanda Roach, Breeze Hill has been her home for more than 45 years. She has happy memories of raising her family there with husband Michael Roach, and today her home is the setting for many family gatherings with children and grandchildren.
The traditional two-story brick home has been lovingly updated to serve today’s needs, while continuing to offer magnificent views of the surrounding natural beauty, all within walking distance to Historic Downtown Canton.
“My family has always enjoyed being close to downtown Canton, the Canton Golf Club, parks, and the many other amenities our city has to offer,” Wanda says.
The Roach home is decorated with an appealing blend of traditional furnishings and fabrics. The kitchen opens into a beautiful sunroom.
The home also features an expansive living room with burled wood paneling and a fireplace. The inviting two-story foyer and separate dining room make the home light and welcoming, while offering plenty of room for entertaining and family time. •
shines
THEATRE
BRIGHTER THAN EVER
The
iconic Canton Theatre is now ready to meet the future after receiving improvements to its historic façade through a grant from the Fox Theatre’s Fox Gives program.
Renovations to the theatre built in 1911 include refreshing the paint, replacing or restoring signage, windows, doors, and trim, as well as repairing and revitalizing the marquee lighting. The Fox Theatre’s Fox Gives program provides financial support to historic theaters across Georgia, helping preserve these important community landmarks. The Historic Canton Theatre has served as a shining star in Downtown Canton for well over 100 years,” explains Canton Theatre Events and Facilities Director Kristen Norton Green.
Green emphasized the importance of the grant in preserving the Canton Theatre’s legacy and role in the community. “The gracious support of the Fox Theatre will allow us to make much-needed exterior renovations which will keep our Historic Theatre shining as a place of community, entertainment, and art for years to come. We are grateful for this investment in Downtown Canton.”
Since its opening in 1911 when patrons could enjoy the slide shows and silent movies of the day, the theatre has been an integral part of Canton with its prominent location in the heart of the historic downtown district.
In the early 1920s, new owners changed the name to Bonita and began showing movies on Fridays and Saturdays. During the era of prosperity the Bonita grew in popularity which led to its renovation and expansion. The theatre’s name was eventually changed to The Haven and movie goers could enjoy top shows, including the first talking motion picture “Singing Fool” starring Al Jolson.
In the late 1930s, amid the popularity of films like "Gone With the Wind" and "The Wizard of Oz," the theatre was renamed Canton Theatre and underwent an Art Deco renovation by new owners.
After the theatre saw a decline in attendance in the 1970s, the building fell into disrepair, but city leaders and local preservationists joined forces, and the city of Canton purchased the building and restored it to its former glory in the 1990s.
Today, the Canton Theatre hosts a variety of events ranging from live performances, community theater productions, film screenings, and concerts. Its revival has not only preserved a piece of Canton's history but has also provided a space for contemporary artistic expression and community gatherings.
Since the Fox Theatre program’s launch in 2008, Fox Gives has awarded more than $3.7 million in grants to over 70 theaters throughout the Southeast.
“Every year, we look forward to issuing these single-year grants to truly impact communities throughout Georgia,” said Leigh Burns, director of community partnerships for Fox Gives.
“We see theatre preservation as more than just restoring buildings; it’s about enriching downtown areas in communities and creating vibrant performing arts spaces where people can gather, experience the arts and connect.” •
For more information on the Historic Canton Theatre and upcoming events visit CantonGa.gov.
HISTORY CENTER Gift Shop Opens
DOOR FOR
Those visiting Historic Downtown Canton should make sure to drop by the Visitors Center and gift shop at the Cherokee County History Center. There, you’ll find a unique collection of handmade and locally sourced items and history books as well as information about tourist sites throughout Cherokee County.
The Visitors Center and gift shop are open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., and admission is free. However, there is a fee to tour the museum, and tickets are available for purchase.
Books such as Cherokee County Recipes & Recollections, a collection of heritage recipes from local cooks, and Salty Dog Goes to Denim Day, a children’s book written by Jennifer Dunn and illustrated by Elly Hobgood are on the shelves.
The gift shop also offers books about other cities in Cherokee County, and Cherokee County, Georgia: A History by Rebecca Johnston chronicles the county’s past from the earliest record of civilization to present times. Canton Cotton Mills: A Pictorial History, another
popular choice, tells the story of the mills, beginning in 1899 with the construction of Mill #1 and ends with the final closing in 1981.
Those looking for the perfect gift or souvenir to remember a visit to Cherokee County and Canton will find plenty of choices, as well.
Located at 221 E. Marietta Street, Canton, History Cherokee provides free parking for guests visiting the museum. There is also a free public-use parking garage right across from the History Center at 200 W. Marietta Street. •
ofForthisrecipeandmore,pickupacopy
CherokeeCountyRecipes&RecollectionsinsidetheHistoryCherokeegiftshop, located at 221 East Marietta Street in Canton.
recipes and recollections
Iceberg Tomato Pickles
Cherokee County Recipes & Recollections cookbook, published by the Cherokee County Historical Society in 1993, keeps the community’s history alive with a curated mix of cherished recipes and personal recollections.
One section of the cookbook is devoted to home preserving, a popular way cooks saved the delicious flavors of summer fruits and vegetables from the garden for cold-weather months.
MISS PEARL’S
ICEBERG TOMATO PICKLES
INGREDIENTS
7 pounds sliced green tomatoes
3 cups Mason’s lime
5 pounds sugar
3 pints vinegar
2 teaspoons cloves
2 teaspoons allspice
2 teaspoons mustard seed cinnamon as desired
*12 gallons water needed for preparation/soaking
INSTRUCTIONS
Soak twenty-four hours in three cups Mason’s lime and two gallons water. Wash from this and soak for four hours in fresh water. Change water every hour for four more times. Make syrup of five pounds sugar and three pints vinegar. Let come to boil and pour over tomatoes. Let set twelve hours. Add two teaspoons cloves, two teaspoons allspice, two teaspoons mustard seed, and cinnamon as desired. Then set on stove and let cook for one hour or more.
NOTE: After boiling for an hour, the hot mixture can be sealed in sterilized jars.
Iceberg tomato pickles were a favorite of cooks of the day and a delectable way to enjoy green tomatoes. This recipe was the one Pearl Turner Jones used. She was the wife of Louis L. Jones, Sr., who was the president of Canton Textile Mills from the 1930s to the 1960s. Louis’s father, Robert Tyre “R. T.” Jones, founded the mill.
A native of Dawson, Georgia, Miss Pearl—as she was known—graduated with honors from Shorter College in 1909. The couple married in 1912 and later welcomed four children. Miss Pearl was renowned as a master gardener at her home in Canton. •
TRAVIS JOHNSON
listening before leading
Canton City Councilmember Travis Johnson is serving his first term representing Canton’s Ward 1. Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Travis holds a bachelor’s degree from Reinhardt University in sociology. Professionally, he is the Southeast district manager for Fidia Pharma USA Inc.
In 2021, Travis was appointed to the Canton Housing Authority where he served until being elected in 2023. Passionate about the community, public safety, economic growth and development, Travis brings a practical, yet logical and strategic approach to the council.
MOTIVATION FOR SERVING
“My motivation for seeking a seat on the Canton City Council was simple: all my life, I’ve wanted to make a difference and serve others in any capacity I could. Initially, I believed partisan politics was the path to make that impact and ran for state Senate against the late Senator Bruce Thompson in 2020. Though I was not elected, that experience taught me that partisan politics wasn't the best fit for me. I found it too divisive and unproductive. I long for a day where being American is enough—and we choose the best people for the job, regardless of party.
That’s why I was drawn to the Canton City Council. It's non-partisan, which was crucial for me, as I no longer identify with a party. I wanted to serve the people with no political filter — just with the intent to do good and make a difference.”
TOP PRIORITY AS A COUNCIL MEMBER
“My number one priority is to represent the people with a heart of compassion and a clear commitment to our shared best interests. When it’s time to vote, I don’t see it as my vote — I see it as our vote. To truly do that with integrity, I believe in engaging directly with the community. Listening comes before leading.”
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CANTON
“Canton has a small-town charm with just enough to do, without needing to travel to a big city like Atlanta. I love that balance. Most of all, I deeply value the safety and sense of community we enjoy here. Special thanks to Police Chief Marty Ferrell, Sheriff Frank Reynolds, and all of our law enforcement professionals who work so hard to keep our city safe.”
WHERE WE CAN IMPROVE
“One area in need of improvement is the infrastructure along State Route 140. While the Georgia Department of Transportation oversees the improvement plan, we as local leaders must continue to advocate for its prioritization. This project would significantly benefit Canton’s growth and quality of life.”
WHAT I'VE LEARNED SINCE BEING ELECTED
“One key lesson is that not everything falls under the city’s jurisdiction. Often, the first step in helping a resident is determining whether their concern lies within city limits or belongs to the county. Helping connect people to the right resources has been an important part of my role.
I’m proud to call Canton home. It’s a safe, thriving, and beautiful community, and I’m honored to serve and represent the people of Ward 1.” •
discover
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CANTON
SMALL TOWN FEEL, UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
Established in 1834, Flourishing in 2025
A visit to Historic Downtown Canton offers a unique opportunity and an unforgettable experience to savor the past while experiencing a vibrant, exciting present.
Tucked in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and defined by the Etowah River, visitors can stroll through historic streets lined with local shops, explore scenic trails, and enjoy world-class dining.
Enjoy the thriving arts scene and year-round events that make Canton distinctive. Canton isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a destination to love. Take an art class or stop by the Historic Canton Theatre, where you can enjoy plays, musical offerings, and movies.
Savor Canton’s varied mix of locally owned restaurants, bars, and cafes. From fine dining to a quick bite, and everything in between, Canton’s dining scene has something for every taste.
Visit The Mill on Etowah, one of the metro area’s hottest adaptive re-use developments located in the historic 120-yearold former Canton Cotton Mill on the banks of the Etowah River near downtown Canton. Discover Canton’s mill town history, visit Reformation Brewery and other restaurants, stroll through shops, and enjoy events on The Green.
Explore Canton’s history through our historic sites, colorful murals, and cultural landmarks. Discover the Cherokee Native American heritage that has influenced our community and the significant events that have shaped our city. Visit the Cherokee County History Center and its top-rated museum. •
highlightsFrik and Frak Market
HOMEMADE FAVORITES
Brother and sister duo Frank Connor and Francie Deskin, owners of Frik and Frak Market in Hickory Flat, have done it again, this time with a second location of their popular concept at The Mill on Etowah in Historic Canton.
“We thought somewhere down the line we would open up a second location,” Frank points out. So, when the owners of The Mill at Etowah fell in love with what Frank and Francie were doing with their grab-and-go meals, coffee, and baked goods at the original Frik and Frak and urged them to consider a location ready to go in the repurposed historic cotton mill, they jumped at the idea.
“As the opportunity to move into a newer space without a big build-out cost was attractive to Francie and me, we just decided to go for it,” Frank shares.
And go for it they did. Frank explains that he admires The Mill area because, “it’s such a cool location and has a great vibe to it. When you come to The Mill, you are immediately happy; it’s a place you want to be, shop, and work.”
Frank points out that The Mill is an excellent location because it has wonderful music, is a cool place to come and hang out, and hosts a lot of events. “It brings a lot of positive recognition to Frik and Frak to be part of The Mill,” Frank says proudly.
The Mill on Etowah is an awarding winning adaptive re-use development in the historic 120-year-old former Canton Cotton Mill on the banks of the Etowah River near historic downtown Canton.
In addition to stores and restaurants like Frik and Frak, the former denim factory features a brewery and taproom, a co-working space, and much more. The 250,000-square-foot destination in the former Canton Cotton Mill property also features an events green with stage and visual screen.
The Mill was founded in 1899 by Robert Tyre Jones, along with a group of local investors. Developers Penn Hodge and Grant Schmeelk purchased the property from the Jones family in 2018 for the project.
Frank and Francie are adamant that they are not changing anything that has drawn customers to their shop since the beginning. The Canton store offers their popular
homemade Five Star in a Jar Italian sauces, amazing coffee, and fabulous baked goods such as homemade banana bread, coffee cake, sausage rolls, carrot cake, and lemonblueberry muffins, all baked fresh daily.
“We still have a great selection of amazing local products that come from the state of Georgia and the Southeast,” Frank adds. Frik and Frak also offers scrumptious pasta dishes like lemon chicken pasta, chicken bolognaise, meatballs, chicken parm, short rib over risotto, plus a variety of delicious soups and hearty chowders.
Those who love their concept can look for more offerings in the near future, when Frik and Frak will serve hot lunches on a daily basis. “We’re going to be serving things like meatball parm subs, chicken parm subs, chicken caprese sandwiches, and a lot of other great offerings that will be a diverse daily market for everyone who lives near or around downtown Canton,” Frank promises. •
The Marketplace is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. except Sunday when it closes at 2:00 p.m.
Frik and Frak Market is in The Mill on Etowah at 225 Reformation Parkway in Canton or learn more at www.frikandfrakmarket.com.
HISTORIC CANTON
SMALL TOWN COOL
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FRIK & FRAK ARTISANAL SAUCES
Using only the finest ingredients, every jar of Frik & Frak’s sauces is lovingly hand-crafted from unique recipes refined for 30 years to give you the perfect bite every time. Enjoy the world’s perfect pasta sauce at home. Learn more about Frik & Frak Market on pages 18 and 19.
THE SHOPPES AT THE MILL ON ETOWAH 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton Frikandfrakmarket.com
$11.99 per jar
ANGEL ART
This beautiful canvas and wood wall art featuring an angel will inspire and delight collectors. An exclusive from Raz Imports, this piece of art was designed by artist Haley Bush.
THE CHAMBERHOUSE
145 West Main Street, Canton Chamberhouse.net
$29
COPPER TOP BIRD HOUSE
Birds of every feather will fall in love this beautiful copper-topped and hand-painted bird house.
COTTON MILL EXCHANGE
225 Reformation Parkway, Canton Cottonmillexchange.net
$32
GEORGIA BULLDOGS JEWELRY
Go Dawgs! Show off your team spirit with beautiful satin gold tone jewelry by Canvas Style.
THE CHAMBERHOUSE
145 West Main Street, Canton Chamberhouse.net
Earrings, $36 | Bracelet, $34
signature item
MOCHA KNIT TOP
This knit short-sleeve top in mocha by Bluivy is sure to dress up any occasion with modern chic style. Find a wide variety of clothing in this charming boutique.
THE WHITE COTTAGE ON MAIN
200 W. Main Street, Canton
Thewhitecottageonmain.com $40
LOSEDA MENCIA WINE
Suds & Bottles offers a hand-selected collection of independent organic wine and beer from across the world, such as this Losada Mencia 2019 white wine made with grapes from Bierzo, Spain, sure to delight every palate.
SUDS & BOTTLES
The Shoppes at The Mill on Etowah 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton Sudsandbottles.com $27
CANTON GUEST TOWEL
Welcome guests with the perfect message about the coolest small town in America. This beautiful towel works well in the kitchen or the bath.
THE WHITE COTTAGE ON MAIN
200 W. Main Street, Canton
Thewhitecottageonmain.com $22
CANTON COOL
RED, WHITE, AND BOOTS
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
The 2025 Canton Farmers Market takes place every Saturday, 9:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m., from May 31–August 30.
p.m.
SEPTEMBER 13
Set along the picturesque banks of the Etowah River Park in Canton, Riverfest Arts & Crafts festival is one of the Southeast’s premier festivals, attracting more than 25,000 visitors.
The 41st a nnual Riverfest highlights more than 150 artists and crafters from all over Georgia and the southeastern United States.
Visitors can get a taste of the South from the concessions area with a wide variety of festival fare and delicious food.
Live entertainers and talented musicians will take the stage throughout the two days of the festival.
The Children’s Area features games, bouncy houses, a petting zoo, and miniature train rides.
Sports fans can relax in the tailgating area with live broadcasts of football games. There’s something for everyone.
Presented by the Service League of Cherokee County, all money raised benefits children in need.
Come see why people travel from all over the Southeast every year to visit Riverfest. •
