Snellville Spirit Fall 2025

Page 1


You’re Invited to the Annual International Taste of Snellville!

Get ready for a day full of flavor, fun, and fantastic music at Snellville’s most delicious event of the year — The International Taste of Snellville!

Savor the World in One Place

Experience a vibrant mix of global cuisines as top chefs from Snellville and surrounding areas serve up their favorite dishes, sure to please your palate. Local restaurants will be offering sample-sized

portions for just $1 per ticket. Samples will range from $1.00 to $4.00 each.

Tasting Tickets and Prizes

When you purchase tasting tickets, you’ll receive a Tasting Card listing all participating restaurants. Visit at least 7 stops, check them off your card, and drop it off at the Information Tent for a chance to win exciting door prizes announced at 7:30 PM!

Free Caricature Drawings

Take home a fun memory — stop by for a FREE caricature of yourself or the family!

Music, Fun, Games!

DJ Lee kicks things off at 4 PM, followed by Orquesta Taboga Band from 6-8 p.m. (Caribbean andCalypsomusic).

Enjoy cultural showcases throughout the afternoon.

What to Bring?

Grab your lawn chair or blanket and settle in for an evening of delicious food, cultural celebration, and great community vibes!

Admission is FREE!

Just bring your appetite and your love for the amazing flavors of Snellville! Tickets are $1.00 each and samplings will be sold between $1.00 and $4.00 at each food station.

September 13, 4-8 PM | Towne Green | 2342 Oak Road

Fall is here, experience Snellville

As we move into the fall season, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support and involvement in our community. The cooler temperatures and changing colors bring with them a renewed sense of energy — and a wonderful variety of opportunities to come together.

Here in Snellville, fall is always an especially active time. We’ve enjoyed seeing so many of you at recent events, and we hope you’ll join us for many of our traditional upcoming activities, including the International Taste of Snellville, Fall Festival, Latin Fest and Christmas Tree Lighting.

Fall is also the perfect time to step outside and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds us — from a peaceful walk through one of our local parks to a hike on nearby trails. Whether you’re visiting Briscoe Park or simply enjoying the changing leaves in your own neighborhood, I encourage you to take advantage of the season to reconnect with the outdoors and with one another.

We’re also eagerly anticipating the opening of the Crooked Can Brewery and Marketplace—an exciting new destination that will serve as a central hub for local business, social connection, and continued growth in the heart of our city. Together, they represent a vibrant experience that reflects our commitment to building a lively and engaging downtown for all to enjoy. We can also look forward to more events at The Grove, including live music performances, cornhole tournaments, and other community gatherings that bring neighbors and families together in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

Thank you again for your support and for helping make Snellville a strong, connected community. I look forward to seeing you this fall—at The Grove and around town.

Don Britt,

Connecting our Community to Celebrate Snellville

Publisher/Editor: Kelly McAloon

Editor: Brian Arrington

Snellville Spirit Magazine is produced by: Snellville Tourism & Trade Association

P.O. Box 669 • Snellville, GA 30078 Website: www.ExperienceSnellville.com

Snellville Tourism and Trade Association’s mission is to promote business, tourism and events in the City of Snellville.

President

Don Britt

Vice President

Kurt Schulz

Treasurer

Stephanie McDonald

Secretary

Traci Leath

Board Members

Richelle Brown

Deborah Jones

Rozeena Noorani

Jamie Parker

Shaunte “CJ” Pitt

Executive Director

Kelly McAloon

Market Manager

Charlene Britt

City Council

Mayor Barbara Bender, Mayor Pro Tem Tod Warner, Cristy Lenski, Gretchen Schulz, Kerry Hetherington and Norman A. Carter Jr. City Website: www.snellville.org

Magazine Design by Brian Arrington, Kelly McAloon and pcoxcreative

Magazine Cover Photo by Kelly McAloon

Contributing Writers and Photographers: Kelly McAloon, Don Britt, Brian Arrington, Charlene Britt, Barbara Bender, pcoxcreative, Meghan Meegan, Allison Hollingshead, Franchesca Thompson and Scott Hermel

Mayor’s Message - Mayor Barbara Bender

I am struggling with the fact that summer is quickly winding down and we are headed straight on into fall.

Where has this year gone?

The City is in construction mode once again with the recreation center in T.W. Briscoe Park underway. Utilities are being relocated in preparation of pouring the concrete slab. We also have roadway improvements at North Road and Wisteria Drive intersection. Please be careful traveling through that area in the coming months.

Gwinnett County Department of Transportation is working on the planned roundabout at Mountain View Road and Oak Road. This has proven to be a dangerous intersection, and we are working in partnership with GwDOT for the roundabout. Currently, they are working on the right-of-way acquisition and plan to be in construction phase sometime next year.

Qualifying is over for the upcoming city elections on November 4th. Congratulations to Councilmember-Elect Richelle Brown, Post 4, who is unopposed. Since moving into Snellville, Richelle has jumped in with both feet in volunteering in many areas. I look forward to working with her on the Council.

Snellville Public Works

Snellville Public Works asks you to please review these tips with your family to ensure timely pick up of your weekly garbage:

• Don’toverfillyourgarbagecan. Cansfilledoverthetopwillnot bepickedup.

• Breakdownyourboxestomaximizeyourgarbagecanspace.

• Citybluegarbagebagsshouldbe usedforextragarbage.

• Don’tleavedebrispileduponthe groundbesidethecanasitwill notbepickedup.

• Make sure all lids are closed.

• Cans should be three feet from mailbox.

• Allgarbageshouldbebaggedand in the can.

• Call public works for bulk pickup.

• Make sure cart lid opens towards the street.

Post 3 has two contenders, Shaunte “CJ” Pitt and Dan Russell and Post 5 has Mayor Pro Tem Tod Warner and Catherine Hardrick. Please take some time and get to know the candidates. The City Council plays an important role in setting the vision and course for the community and it is vital to have people that will do the work and represent you well. Most importantly, mark your calendar now to vote at Snellville City Hall on Nov. 4. Early voting starts Oct. 14. More details on early voting dates and times can be found on the City’s website.

I hope you plan to attend the lineup of events yet to come this year. Happy Fall!

The City Council plays an important role in setting the vision and course for the community and it is vital to have people that will do the work and represent you well. Most importantly, mark your calendar now to vote at Snellville City Hall on Nov. 4.

Garbage that doesn’t fit inside your trash cart with a closed lid, must be placed in a “City of Snellville Blue Bag” in order to be collected by our sanitation provider. The purchase of these bags covers the cost of the excess garbage pick up. When needed, place the “City of Snellville Blue Bag” alongside your trash cart by 6 a.m. at the curb on your scheduled day of collection.

City of Snellville Blue Bags are available at Public Works, as well as Publix and Kroger located on Scenic Highway in Snellville. Go to the customer service desk at both Publix and Kroger for assistance. The Blue Bags are imprinted with the city seal. The Blue Bags are sold only by the bundle. Each bundle contains (10) bags and sells for $17. Garbage outside your 65-gallon cart will NOT be picked up if it is not in a “City of Snellville Blue Bag.”

Please call the Public Works Department at 770-985-3527, Monday - Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to schedule a curbside bulk item pick up. Bulk items are collected on your regular garbage day and must be scheduled with Public Works. You must purchase the official “City of Snellville Blue Bags,” attach three (3) blue bags to EACH bulk item (sofa, mattress, etc.), and place the item at your curb on your regular garbage day by 6 a.m.

Snellville Police Department

The Snellville Police Department strives to create a bond with the community it serves. To that end, officers are constantly in the community, building relationships with residents, young and old alike. Here are a few recent community-building endeavors. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

1. At the former Snellville Library, officers taught a class to children on bullies and being an ‘upstander.’

2. Officers held several events handing out fingerprint kits to families and spoke about safety and proper car seat usage.

3. Mayor Barbara Bender and several officers enjoyed the Snellville Unity Day Event.

4. Officers participated in the ‘Cops on Donut Shops’ event for Special Olympics at Dunkin Donuts on Highway 78 to raise funds for the Special Olympics.

5. Police held weekly sessions with the Parks & Recreation’s Summer Camp where children were able to tour the police station, learn about what police officers do, stranger safety, enjoy a drone demonstration, and even take their own fingerprints.

Celebrate the Magic of the Snellville Fall Festival

October 25 | Snellville Towne Green

12 - 6 PM | 2342 Oak Road

There’s nothing quite like fall—the vibrant changing leaves, the crisp air, and the excitement of the Snellville Fall Festival! Join us for a day filled with festive fun, local crafts, delicious food, and family-friendly activities.

GET A JUMP ON HOLIDAY SHOPPING!

Stroll along Oak Road in front of City Hall to browse a fantastic variety of craft vendors. Just next door, the Active Adult Center will be filled with talented artisans showcasing beautiful handmade items.

SAVOR THE FLAVORS OF FALL

Follow the mouthwatering aromas and discover a wide range of festival food available throughout the day—including beer and wine for adult guests.

DJ Lee will kick off the event with music, fun and games starting at noon. The Ray Howard Band will take the stage at 4 p.m. with Motown Sounds

Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the funky vibes all afternoon. Costume Contests

COSTUME CONTESTS

All-Ages Costume Contest, includes Mom and Dad, too!

Starts at 1:30 PM - Register by 1:00 PM at the registration tent (left of the stage).

Age Groups: 0–2, 3–5, 6–8, 9–14, 15+

Begins at 3:00 PM | Register by 2:30 PM at the same registration tent.

Dress up your furry friend and let them strut their stuff!

SCARECROW CONTEST

Join the fun and show off your scarecrow skills! Find full details online at: www.ExperienceSnellville.com

ALL-DAY FUN FOR JUST $15!

Purchase a $15 All-Day Activity Band for unlimited access to exciting attractions:

• Rock Climbing Wall • 9-Hole Mini Golf

• Trackless Train •Gaming Bus

• Multiple Inflatables

• Inflatable Basketball Challenge

• Build-It with Home Depot

Kids can enjoy a hands-on Build-It Activity sponsored by Home Depot—fun for little builders of all ages!

PUMPKIN DECORATING

Get crafty! Decorate your own pumpkin for just $2 and take it home as a festive keepsake.

FREE CARICATURE DRAWINGS

Enjoy fun, free caricature drawings throughout the day!

VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE!

Love arts and crafts? Want to be a vendor at this year’s festival? Spots are limited and first-come, first-served. Apply online today!

QUESTIONS?

Contact Kelly McAloon at: kelly@experiencesnellville.com or call 770.310.0429.

For full event details and updates, visit: www.ExperienceSnellville.com

H Our last name is Boykin, and we added the “Z” to represent us – Gen Z!

H We are a family of 9—the 4 of us, 3 brothers, and mom & dad.

H Born and raised in Snellville, Georgia.

Tuesday,VOTE!

H Grew up listening to all types of music from Stevie Wonder and Destiny’s Child to Dolly Parton and Shania Twain.

H We’re competing in the Semifinals of America’s Got Talent on Tuesday, Sept. 9th on NBC VOTE FOR US TO WIN!

Q. Tell us how The BoykinZ Girls got started and hometown?

When we were little, our parents ran a local performing arts camp right here in our hometown of Snellville, where we learned to dance, sing, act, and play sports - we loved it! One day at home, they overheard us singing and thought we had something special, so they started training us and finding opportunities for us to sing publicly. Our first show was in a parking lot on a portable stage that the City of Snellville had just purchased for public performances!

Q. Who inspired you to sing?

We were surrounded by musical theatre growing up and all those different shows and voices inspired us to sing. Our mother taught us how to use our voices and then put us with vocal instructors to give us more tools and techniques.

Q. How would you describe the music that you typically make?

Our music is what we call ‘Country Infusion’, which has elements of Western, Pop, and R&B.

Q. Do you write all your own music?

Yes, we write our own music and love to collaborate with other writers and producers.

Q. What is your creative process?

Our creative process begins by following our hearts to tell authentic stories and then go wherever the music leads us. It usually starts with deep conversations about the things that stand out and linger in our thoughts.

Q. If you could open a show for any artist, who would it be?

We would love to open for Shania Twain, Lainey Wilson, Shaboozey and Katseye to name a few!

Q. What is the message you would give to fans?

Dream big, never stop believing in yourself, set goals and always keep God first.

Q. What’s next for The BoykinZ?

In addition to releasing new music this fall, we’re headed back to Hollywood to compete on America’s Got Talent! Over the summer, we received a Golden Buzzer for our first audition performance which advanced us straight to the Semifinals taking place on Tuesday, September 9th on NBC. Watch us perform and then vote for us to win by downloading the NBC/AGT app or by going to NBC.com/AGTVOTE Helpusbringthe championtitlehometoSnellville!

Discover timeless treasures at the Lawrenceville Antique Mall, where every item tells a story. Located in the heart of Lawrenceville, this charming destination features an ever-changing selection of antique furniture, vintage art, collectibles, jewelry, and more.

Whether you’re hunting for a nostalgic gift, a unique décor piece, or simply enjoy browsing classic vinyl and quirky finds, the mall offers a fun and memorable shopping experience.

• September is Multicultural Celebration and Tent Sale

• October 18th – Fall Fling & Tent Sale

Halloween Costume Business

City News

Briscoe Park tennis courts get resurfacing makeover

Thanks in part to a grant from the United States Tennis Association, the courts at T.W. Briscoe Park have been resurfaced.

Half of the $53,075 project was covered by the USTA, which awarded the park’s tennis program USTA Georgia for Outstanding Parks and Recreation for 2024.

“Tennis is booming at Briscoe Park,” said Program Coordinator Meghan Meegan. “We have multiple teams that call Briscoe home. The park hosts singles flex leagues for children and adults and beginner and advanced clinics and private lessons are offered for children and adults. Not to mention the amount of patrons that use the courts for recreational use. The last resurfacing happened about 12 years ago so it was time to do it again!”

The resurfacing was done by Southeastern Tennis. The project started on July 7 and the courts were reopened less than two weeks later.

Municipal election slated for Nov. 4 to decide three council seats

Snellville will have a General Election on Nov. 4 to decide three council seats.

The following people have qualified for the election:

Post 3

Shaunte “CJ” Pitt

Dan W. Russell

Post 4

Richelle D. Brown (no opposition)

Post 5

Catherine “Cat” Hardrick Tod Warner (I)

Advance Voting for the election will be Monday through Friday starting on Tuesday, Oct. 14 through Friday, Oct. 31 with Saturday voting on Oct.18 and Oct. 25. The hours of voting each day are 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. There will be no advance voting on Monday, Oct. 13 due to Columbus day.

The voter registration deadline is Oct. 6 for persons to be eligible to vote in the election.

This election will be held in the Snellville City Hall, 2342 Oak Road, Snellville. Polls will open for the election at 7 a.m. and will close at 7 p.m. Nov. 4.

The Grove at Towne Center’s calendar of events

The Grove at Towne Center is hosting several free events through December.

The Downtown Tunes Concert Series, which features local musicians, a food truck and King of Pops runs from 6-9 p.m. Saxophonist Ignatius Hines will perform Sept. 18 and The Happy Hour will perform Oct. 16.

On Sept. 26 starting at dusk, “The Minecraft Movie” will be shown. A food truck and King of Pops will be on site.

There will be a trick-or-treat night Oct. 24 starting at 5:30 p.m. Trick-or-treating around The Grove starts at 6 p.m. The movie “Hocus Pocus” starts at 7 p.m.

Santa Claus will be at The Grove from 1-3 p.m. Dec. 6 for pictures.

Check out all our deals

Watch our digital media board/store front sign for new arriving sporting goods inventories.

Hill Top Pawn and Gun

At Hill Top Pawn and Gun we want everyone to know we are “Large Enough to Handle your Needs and Small Enough to Care.”

Hill Top Pawn Inc. 1882 Athens Highway Snellville, GA 30078

770-978-7079

Hilltop@bellsouth.net

New trade show inventories have arrived.

Stop in to take advantage of the new sporting goods and special pricing for 2025!

WE BUY GOLD!

With over 50 years of combined experience in the Gold buying industry, we are confident that we can offer top dollar for your Gold and Silver.

Firearm Sales

In our Firearm department we have a wide variety of new and used firearms with a staff that is friendly knowledgeable and willing to help.

$Cash Loans$

At Hill Top Pawn we specialize in loaning out cash! We loan money on just about anything with amounts up to $10,000

Gold, Guns, Electronics, Tools, Instruments, Sporting Goods, Cars, Trailers, Boats, Motorcycles and more. (All loans are collateral based)

Follow us on Facebook for all of the new products!

•Free Hot Breakfast

•Suites and Jacuzzi Rooms

•100% Non-Smoking

•Heated Indoor Pool •Fitness Center •Meeting Room

Community Garden @Snellville

Planting a cool season garden: Get growing!

As summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your fall garden. While most people associate gardening with spring and summer, cool season gardening has its own delicious rewards — and it all begins now.

Cool season crops thrive in lower temperatures and can even tolerate a light frost, making them ideal for late summer planting. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce grow beautifully in the cooler weather, along with root vegetables such as carrots, radishes, and beets. Brassicas like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower also perform especially well in the fall garden.

Mid-to-late September is the sweet spot for planting many of these crops, giving them time to mature before the first hard frost. You can sow seeds directly in the garden beds or opt for transplants if you want a quicker harvest. Growing in the cool season comes with several benefits—there are fewer pests and weeds to manage, many crops develop better flavor (a light frost can actually sweeten carrots and kale), and you’ll extend your harvest season well into the cooler months.

To set yourself up for success, be sure to refresh your garden beds with compost after removing summer crops and keep seeds well-watered during the hot days of late summer to encourage strong germination. As temperatures drop, using row covers can

help protect tender plants and extend your growing window.

To help you get started this fall, the Community Garden @ Snellville is hosting its Annual Fall Plant Sale Sept. 6, featuring a generous variety of cool season vegetables. All the plants have been lovingly grown from seed by our dedicated greenhouse team, still only $2 each and ready to thrive in your garden. Whether you’re planting your very first bed or adding to an existing one, it’s a great opportunity to pick up healthy, ready-to-grow plants and connect with fellow garden enthusiasts.

Earlier this year, one of our customers, Lauren King shared photos of the marigolds, tomatoes, and peppers she purchased from us in the spring, now lush, productive, and thriving in her home garden. “The marigolds are amazing! I have been astounded by how big and bushy these have grown! All of the plants I purchased from y’all are doing so well!” Stories like Lauren’s remind us that when you purchase a plant from our sales, you’re not just growing your own garden, you are helping cultivate a stronger, greener community.

We hope you’ll stop by, chat with us, and take home a few plants to get your fall garden growing. So don’t put your garden to bed just yet, plant a cool season garden and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce right through the fall! Stay tuned to our Facebook page for the official sale dates and available varieties — we’d love to see you there and help you get growing this fall!

Unity Day 2025

Unity Day, hosted by the Snellville Youth Council, took place at The Grove at Towne Center on June 19. The event, designed to promote racial harmony, featured city officials, vendors and entertainment.

Snellville Farmers’ Market

Summer fun to fall harvests: The Market goes on!

As the air begins to cool and fall colors creep into the trees, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the joy and community spirit of the summer—and to look forward to the delicious abundance still to come. While the main season of the Snellville Farmers Market is winding down, we’re not done yet! The Extended Season Farmers Market kicks off on Oct. 4 and continues through May, taking place on the first and third Saturdays of each month from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the parking lot behind Snellville City Hall. It’s your opportunity to keep supporting local farmers, bakers, makers, and artisans all year long — while enjoying the very best of Georgia’s fall and winter harvests.

From crisp apples and sweet potatoes to leafy greens, radishes, winter squash, and farmfresh eggs, fall brings a rich variety of fresh, local foods that are perfect for cozy meals and holiday tables. Many of our vendors use seasonextending techniques like greenhouses and cold frames to bring fresh produce to market long after summer ends. You’ll also find handmade goods, baked treats, jams, and more—perfect for

Snellville Farmers’ Market

gift-giving or just treating yourself on a cool Saturday morning.

This year’s summer market was filled with fun and memorable moments, and we’d be remiss not to celebrate a few highlights. Our Kids Story Time events were a huge success, bringing families together each week to enjoy thoughtful, engaging readings. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our wonderful volunteers, Maggie Van Buren and Donna Barron, for their outstanding work — not only reading to the children but also engaging them in educational story-related play. Their warmth, creativity, and storytelling brought joy to so many young faces and made each session truly special.

We were also lucky to welcome Miss Ashley with Mr. John’s Music, who brought the market to life with a lively children’s music class filled with rhythm, movement, and joy. It was wonderful to see so many smiling faces, dancing feet, and tapping toes as little ones engaged with the music—and even better to see parents joining in on the fun, especially the dads! Thank you, Miss Ashley, for sharing your gifts and helping bring our community together through the power of music.

A huge shoutout to Stephanie McDonald and her students from Snellville Performing Arts for bringing the magic and helping us kick off the summer season! From delightful Disney princesses to fantastic face painting, they created a truly fun and memorable experience for all our young shoppers. We’re so grateful for the joy and energy they brought to the market and we hope to have them back out again soon!

We also had the absolute pleasure of hosting a special live music performance by local artist Lucy Clemente, a talented 19-year-old singer-

songwriter. Blending nostalgic classics with modern folk and pop influences, Lucy’s set created the perfect soundtrack to a relaxed market morning. Marketgoers of all ages paused to enjoy her heartfelt voice and engaging stage presence — her performance was truly a standout moment of the season. Thank you, Lucy, for sharing your gift with our community! We’re excited to welcome you back for another performance at the Sept. 6 market!

And who could forget the surprise of the season? On one especially lively Saturday, the market was treated to a flash mob performance by the Snellville Senior/Active Adult Center! Their high-energy, joyful dance had everyone smiling and many joining in. A huge shoutout to the Flash Mob Crew for your enthusiasm and fun, and to Staci Dye and Jane Moore for the incredible effort and coordination behind the scenes. Your creativity made a lasting impression.

So, as we welcome the fall season, we invite you to keep the market tradition going. Join us at the Snellville Extended Season Farmers Market, beginning the first Saturday in October and continuing on the first and third Saturdays through May, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the parking lot behind City Hall. Bring your tote bags, your appetite, and your sense of community, it’s the perfect way to stay connected, shop local, and celebrate all the seasons have to offer.

For the latest updates on market events, vendors, and more, sign up for our newsletter at www.snellvillefarmersmarket.com. We’d love to keep you in the loop!

NETHERWORLD - 7.3 mi

Creekwater Alpaca Farm - 5.6 mi

Saltville Grotto & Spa - 0.2 mi

The unique farm in Snellville, Ga. has been home to over 50 alpacas since 1993. We offer a safe, close up, hands-on experience unlike any other. Bring the family and enjoy petting the alpacas in their pen and seeing the bunnies and goats too! Guinea Fowl also call Creekwater home. Enjoy it all with public or private tours.

Saltville Grotto & Spa will be your salty oasis in Snellville. We offer both wet and dry salt therapies such as floatation and a salt cave. In addition, you can get a massage, foot massage or ionic foot detox. Or maybe a session in our infrared sauna is more your style.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament - 11 mi

Third Rail Distillery - 7.7 mi

ATLANTA: This fall, the gates of NETHERWORLD Haunted House burst open once again for its 29th Season of Screams, cementing its reign as one of America’s most iconic haunted attractions. Opening Friday, Sept. 19 and running for 35 chilling nights through early November, the 2025 season promises to be NETHERWORLD’s most ambitious and immersive yet. 1 4 2 3 5 7 6 10 9 8

Welcome to our castles! It is our honor to provide you with an unforgettable experience of rivalry, feasting and fun! Epic battles of steel and steed, beyond the strength lies the power of charm.

We want our visitors to feel comfortable, have fun with friends, and enjoy themselves while fostering connections and building relationships. Third Rail is about offering an experience that goes beyond just tasting spirits; it’s about creating lasting memories and a strong sense of community.

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds - 5.6 mi

Pumpkin Fest

Stone Mountain Park - 8.4 mi

9/13/25 - 11/2/25

Play by Day during Pumpkin Festival featuring all your favorite attractions and entertainment, then Glow by Night during our not-sospooky nighttime experience for the whole family!

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds offers a wide variety of events every weekend. Upcoming events include: Repticon, Rebel Rouser Cat Show, Southeast Exotic Bird Fair, Gwinnett Balloon & Glow Laser Show and much more. For more information: gwinnettcountyfair.com/events

Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary - 5 mi

Explore one of Georgia’s most iconic landmarks. Located in central Gwinnett alongside Yellow River, just minutes from Snellville. We are home to the original Bison herd, beautiful peacocks, babydoll sheep, alpacas, fallow deer, spider monkeys, and much more.

Snellville Veterans Memorial - 0.1 mi

The Snellville Veterans Memorial is a state-of-the-art Memorial where locals and visitors stop by to reflect and pay homage to those who fought so selflessly for our freedom. “FREEDOM IS NEVER FREE.”

The Highland Games

Stone Mountain Park - 8.4 mi

10/18/25 - 10/19/25

Special Events Meadow

Since 1972, the picturesque grounds of the Stone Mountain Park meadow, a short drive northeast of Atlanta, Georgia, have resounded with the sounds of bagpipes, fiddles and harps during the third weekend in October.

Lincoln Fill Station0.9 mi

Based in Snellville, we are north Georgia’s prime destination for craft beer and fine cigars. Whatever the weather, our covered patio and indoor lounge is the best place to enjoy delicious craft beer. We have food trucks on site Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons.

17

Proud to be named #4 Best Beer Garden in America by USA Today! Tucker Brewing Company is Georgia’s premium lager brewery, dedicated to making easy-to-drink, flavorful lager beers. This is a family owned lager brewery inspired by German brewing traditions and honors the Southern roots of its owners. We strive every day to create a warm environment where family and friends can come together to appreciate beer, food and life. 11 12 13 15 14

19

Niko’s Wine Corner - 0.9 mi

Dragon Queen Winery - 1 mi

Veteran owned and operated. Has a large selection of wines that can be shipped to Georgia customers only. Stop in and try our new wines and the delicious wine slushies. Wine tastings end 30 minutes prior to closing.

Come visit Niko’s Wine Corner in Snellville and meet owners Regina Koranteng and Seth Wiredu. They carry exotic beers that are not available in many package and grocery stores. In addition to the very extensive selection of great wines and craft beers, they have Gwinnett County’s first wine bar. Three Enomatic wine tasting machines provide an extensive and changing array of 32 amazing white and red wines. Weekly wine tasting events available.

Slow Pour Brewing - 7.8 mi

Slow Pour is Gwinnett County’s first brewery features the beautifully inviting tasting room and beer garden beckoning friends to sit & chat, in a family friendly atmosphere. Line Dancing Classes every Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. for $5 per dancer and Trivia on Tap every Thursday 7-9 PM free to play!

Tucker Brewing - 13 mi

Native American Festival and Pow Wow

Stone Mountain Park - 8.4 mi

10/30/25 - 11/2/25, Historic Square

Bring your family to experience the energy and color of the largest Native American gathering in Georgia. Free to Mountain Members, the four-day Native American Festival and Pow-Wow was named a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society.

16

Gwinnett Veterans Memorial Museum - 7.5 mi

Established in 2005 by the American Legion Post 232, Snellville and Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation - A tribute to the brave men and women who defended our land and liberties from the Revolutionary War to present. Located at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse on the square in Lawrenceville, Ga.

18

Stars and Strikes

Entertainment Center/Bowling - 5.4 mi

This family entertainment center boasts over 30,000 sq. ft. of fun! Guests are greeted at Stars and Strikes with upgraded bowling, an exciting arcade and a full-service restaurant and bar.

Atlanta Botanical GardenApproximately 20 mi

Thirty acres of display gardens and featuring plant collections including roses, conifers, carnivorous plants, and more. Special features include the Dorothy Chapman Fuqua Conservatory, home to rare tropical and desert plants, and the Children’s Garden, a unique, hands-on garden with a health and wellness theme.

20

T.W. Briscoe Park - 1.6 mi

Visit beautiful Briscoe Park and check out all the things it has to offer including two softball fields, two indoor rental rooms, four outdoor open-air pavilions, outdoor pool, 1.2 mile paved walking trail, 6-acre lake, tennis courts, basketball courts, and much more!

■ Affordable nightly, weekly and monthly rates

■ Average suite features over 300 square feet of comfortable living area

■ Each room includes a separate living area, ample work space with desk, remote control cable tv with HBO or Showtime, iron and ironing board, and in-room hi-speed Internet access

■ Apartment size kitchen with refrigerator, two-burner stovetop, full size microwave, in-room coffee maker, in-room toaster, dishes, cookware & utensils, and a well-lit kitchen table/work area

■ Interior corridors with key card access for added security and always clean & friendly service

■ Clean, well-lit property with beautiful grounds and plenty of free parking

in-lobby

RIBBON CUTTINGS

... In Snellville

If you are opening a new business in Snellville, give us a call, we’d like to meet you and welcome you to Snellville! Call 770-985-3517 for more information.

City, Experience Snellville and Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce officials welcomed the city’s newest business - Caribou Coffee - at a ribboncutting ceremony Aug. 14. The drive-thru and walkup coffee retailer is located at 1947 Scenic Highway. For more information visit locations.cariboucoffee.com/ us/ga/snellville/1947-scenichighway-north. Welcome to Snellville!

City and Experience Snellville officials welcomed the newest business to Snellville July 18 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Lean Kitchen, located at 2420 Wisteria Drive, Suite 5. The business features readymade, health conscious foods. For more information visit leankitchenco.com/snellville. Welcome to Snellville!

September

Earlysavesdetection lives

Brookwood High School

New year, new school: The students’ perspective

A new school year brings a brand-new class of freshmen to Brookwood! Let’s hear the freshman perspective straight from the source — two of our

“High school has been a really pleasant surprise for me. I was so nervous about the change, especially after hearing all the stories about how different it would be from middle school. I worried I would get lost finding my classes and that the schoolwork would be impossibly hard. But it hasn’t been like that at all. The schedule is easy to follow, the teachers have been supportive, and I’m enjoying the new sense of freedom that comes with being a high school student. It feels like a fresh start, and I’m actually looking forward to what the rest of the year will bring.”

“From all the people I know who are older than I am, high school sounded like a nightmare. People were fake, teachers were mean, classes were boring, and homework was extreme. But actually it’s been the opposite. The people I’ve met have changed my life in ways I never thought it could be changed. I love all of my teachers, and homework isn’t even bad. If anything, it’s taught me how to study and be prepared for things I wouldn’t expect. I’ve always been an anxious person and a general overthinker; I thought high school would have been over stimulating, but it’s now a sense of freedom. I found things to do and people I have begun to love. I recommend finding a club, or a team that you want to join, find your community, and get out of your head. High school is the one chance you have to find YOU. Stop caring what other people think and be nobody except the person you want to be.”

Snellville Parks and Recreation

T.W. Briscoe Park is open daily 2500 Sawyer Parkway 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. 770-985-3535

Oak Road Park

1925 Oak Road (Passive neighborhood park)

Park office is open Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.). For more information on registration and classes, check out the Parks and Recreation Department on Snellville’s website at www.snellville.org/parks-recreation.

Registration for programs, leagues and rentals is now online at www.snellville.recdesk.com.

Please “like” our Facebook page for more information on our upcoming events and happenings: www.facebook.com/SnellvilleParks.

Registration is open for youth basketball ages 5-12. Practices/games @ Snellville Community Church. Registration fee starting at $125. Practices start in November

Fall Car Show at Briscoe Park on Nov. 8 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Spectator admission if free. Music. Food. Vendors. Cool cars.

Awarded Outstanding Parks

and Recreation USTA Georgia 2024. Tennis instruction, clinics, camps, and leagues by certified tennis instructors at Briscoe Park visit www.aetennis.com or call 470-417-4547.

Adult sports information visit www. quickscores.com/snellville.

Generals Athletic Club, offers sport programs and mentorship to the Snellville and Shiloh community. Information: www. gac-sports.org.

For information on youth soccer at Briscoe Park visit www.allinfc.com.

Jazzercise is held Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 5-6 p.m. at Briscoe Park. For more details email: jazzercisesnellville@gmail.com.

Martial arts is held at Briscoe Park on Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. Call 770354-1510 for more information.

Snellville Parks and Recreation - Active Adult Center

The Snellville Senior Center/Active Adult Center is for adults 50 and older and is located next to Snellville City Hall. Annual Membership is $35 for Gwinnett County Residents, $20 for City Limit Residents and $45 for those outside of Gwinnett County. The Center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For class times, dates and fees, call 770-985-3580. Check out our Facebook page at facebook.com/snellvillescactiveadults.

Aerobics

Free with membership Mondays and Thursdays. 9:15 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.

Yoga

$5 per class

Tuesdays 10 a.m.

Crochet and knitting. Free with membership. 12 p.m., Tuesdays

Spanish classes

Offered for beginners (in person and via zoom), level one intermediate and conversational Spanish classes are from September-May.

Also:

Daytrips and overnight trips

Pinochle

Devotional study

Bowling Book Club

Greeting card-making class

Card and board game playing groups

Chess

Paint for fun classes

Piano lessons

Paint for fun classes

Piano lessons

Billiards

Bingo (First Fridays)

Exercise and weight room

Line dancing

Twist & Tone

Stretch & Strength

Sign Language for Beginners

Tae Chi (coming soon)

South Gwinnett High School

To kick off the 2025–26 football season, South Gwinnett’s Comet Coalition teamed up with Snellville Chick-fil-A for a spirited Rivalry Week Challenge against the Shiloh Generals and Centerville Chick-fil-A. Both schools rallied their communities to show support and claim the 2025 Chick-fil-A Rivalry Week title. Student Council, football, cheer, and basketball teams came together for a Trail Ride Tailgate on Aug. 14, celebrating school pride and boosting participation. While Shiloh took the challenge win, the overwhelming support earned both schools a $1,000 donation from Chick-fil-A. The Comets, however, claimed victory on the field, defeating Shiloh 14–6 under the Friday night lights.

The Rising 9th Grade Camp at South Gwinnett High School, held in June 2025, welcomed incoming freshmen with a week of engaging activities designed to ease their transition into high school. Students participated in interactive workshops, campus tours, and teambuilding exercises that introduced them to the school’s expectations, resources, and traditions. Teachers, counselors, and student leaders guided participants through sessions on study skills, time management, and navigating high school life, while also creating opportunities for students to connect with peers and build new friendships. The camp fostered a sense of confidence and community among the rising 9th graders by blending academic preparation with social engagement. From icebreaker activities to small-group discussions, the program emphasized leadership, responsibility, and school spirit. Parents were also included through an informational session that highlighted ways to support their children during the transition. By the end of the camp, students left feeling empowered, prepared, and excited to begin their journey as Comets at South Gwinnett High School.

... Were you Caught on Camera?

Snellville Police Department and Public Works

Natural Wonder Concert
Latin Explosion Concert

SCARECROWS ARE COMING ... TO SNELLVILLE!

13th Annual Scarecrow Contest

Calling all business owners, schools, churches, and residents to join in the fun! Great advertising for businesses too! Entrance fee is $20.

How will this work? You create a scarecrow and put it on display outside your business, school, church, home or club. We’ll make sure that there is a map of all locations where Scarecrows are on display for voting. Patrons will be encouraged to visit your location and vote on who has the BEST SCARECROW in Snellville.

Contest is available to everyone in Snellville. The deadline to enter is September 14, 2025 to ensure your scarecrow is on the map.

Voting will run online from September 30 through October 19 at 10 p.m. You will bring your scarecrow to the Snellville FALL FESTIVAL on the Towne Green on October 25 for display. Contest winners will be announced at 3:45 p.m. during the Fall Festival and then your scarecrows will be auctioned off to the highest bidder with bids starting at $10. Scarecrows need to be able to stand on their own; delivery is to be made to the designated spot left of the stage on the Towne Green on Saturday, October 25 by 10 a.m. Please include a 3.x 5 card clearly marked with the scarecrow’s name, your name and business information. The top three scarecrows will be presented a trophy and cash prizes (lst-$100, 2nd- $75 and 3rd- $50) and also receive recognition in our Winter Snellville Spirit Magazine, ExperienceSnellville.com and our Facebook page. The winning scarecrow will be judged on creativity, overall presentation. BE CREATIVE AND HAVE FUN!

All proceeds from the auction will benefit the Southeast Gwinnett Food Co-op.

(Detach and return below.)

Send payments to Snellville Tourism and Trade - PO Box 669, Snellville, Ga. 30078 For rules and tips visit ExperienceSnellville.com or email Kelly McAloon at kelly@experiencesnellville.com.

Last year’s winners of the Scarecrow Contest! Visit www.ExperienceSnellville.com to get in on the fun!

Snellville Lighted Christmas Parade

The Snellville Lighted Christmas Parade is part of the Snellville Christmas Tree lighting and is held the first Saturday evening after Thanksgiving. This is a festive holiday parade that will go through the Grove this year. Show off your school, organization or business in a big way by creating a float that lights up as you ride down Wisteria and Oak Road in front of thousands of people. Who will be tapped as having the best float in the parade this year? Parade applications are online at ExperienceSnellville.com.

10th Annual Snellville Festival of Trees

Snellville City Hall will host the 10th Annual Festival of Trees from November 24th through December 19th.

Stop by City Hall, enjoy the trees and vote for your favorite tree by placing non-perishable food items or toys under the tree of choice. Each item placed under the tree will register as a vote. The tree with the most donated items will be awarded the 2025 BEST CHRISTMAS TREE! Help us embrace the true meaning of the Christmas season and make a difference in the lives of others by voting for your favorite tree. Trees may be viewed at Snellville City Hall from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

All canned goods and dried food will be donated to the Southeast Gwinnett Co-op to“Give Hunger the Boot” and all toys will be donated to the “Toys for Tots” program.

For additional information contact Kelly McAloon at Kelly@experiencesnellville.com. November 29, 2025 | 5:30-6:30 PM

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.