Looking for something fun to do on campus during Winter Break?
Athens Events
Especially in the summer, but, really, any time of year, our corner of Appalachia puts on a light show at dusk every night. The sunsets are serene, colorful and vibrant at the same time.
Held at Lake Snowden just North of Athens each September (well, almost – COVID messed everything up for a minute), Pawpaw Fest is an absolute staple of local culture in our area.
Yet another uniquely-Athens experience, at the end of each summer, Court Street is closed to vehicle traffic and the longest table you’ve ever seen is set up right down the middle of it, where people are served a gourmet meal in the center of uptown, European-style.
Since Nelsonville Music Festival is, you know, pretty much a staple of local musical culture, it’s not exactly the smartest idea to come at it sideways. But for some unknown reason, Hocking College decided to do that in 2021, creating an ongoing and, honestly, ridiculous controversy.
It’s back! Ohio Brew Week – 9 days of appreciating the best brews of local craft distilleries. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the different lagers, stouts, sours, ales, or – let’s be honest – mostly IPAs, you’ll find it.
Inclusivity, equality, representation, and respect for all humans is a field of social causes near and dear to our hearts in Athens and at OU. And the powerhouse player in that endeavor to be a place where everyone feels safe and a part of something is our local LGBTQ+ community.
What’s happening in Athens this summer? A bunch of stuff. April might be festival season for OU, but Athens’ festival season is all summer long – even into the fall, if you count PawPaw Fest (September 15th-17th – Don’t miss it.).
Summertime in Athens is a fun vibe. Many of the students are gone, and many of the permanent residents – who look forward to these quieter seasons – retake Court Street and host different events that are special to Athens.
Every spring, students look forward to the start of fest season in April. Palmer, Mill, High, Congo – every weekend there’s a reason to celebrate the fact that the semester’s almost over.