Explore Georgia: Macon festival one of state's best

If you visit Macon in March, you can celebrate their colorful arrival during the International Cherry Blossom Festival, which began Friday and runs through March 26.

Enjoy an extravagant display of springtime beauty and dozens of fun family activities, many taking place under a canopy of delicate pink blooms. Watch hot-air balloons, air shows, colorful parades and fireworks displays, or go on historic tours and amusement rides.

Concerts feature top recording artists from a variety of musical genres. Dining at the Cherry Blossom Festival’s Food Truck Frenzy offers variety and adventure! While you’re in Macon, cruise around town on the Cherry Blossom Trail to see different neighborhoods showing off their cherry blossoms.

When planning a visit to the Cherry Blossom Festival, consider these tips from Macon locals:

Pay attention to social media updates about the cherry blossoms to make sure you see some blooms. And take a tour of Macon to not only see the cherry trees (which are all over town), but the rest of the city’s sights.

Get a copy of the festival’s schedule of events ahead of time to make the most of your time. It comes out in February.

Book hotel reservations early, as rooms tend to go quickly.

Ask about special deals at local businesses, as most merchants have promotions during the festival.

Take advantage of the free shuttles to Central City Park, courtesy of the Macon-Bibb County Transit Authority, to get to the festival. You also can find free parking at one of the downtown garages or on the street during the weekend.