Georgia Independence Day Festival

02/19/2025

Just FYI, I'm working with Historic Westville in Columbus as a location for this year's Festival. Nothing is set in stone at this point. I've met with the Westville folks and they seem very encouraging. The site would be perfect for our needs. There are 28 houses, many with porches, that would provide stages and shade. All the streets are dirt which will lend themselves well for the horse and our rider from Philadelphia. There is power on the property. There are two churches so maybe we can add a preacher to the cast? So, keep your fingers crossed that things work out!

02/19/2022

Dr. And Mrs. Franklin in front of Hearn Academy in Cave Spring, Ga. The Festival has moved from a fort to a mansion! We'll do the Scottish Reel in a fine ball room. The ladies can join Abigail Adams for tea. But be careful, the British can't be far away!

01/28/2022

Great news! The festival lives again! July Second in Cave Spring, Ga. Details to follow!

12/07/2021

A GLIMMER OF HOPE

Cave Spring, Ga has expressed an interest in hosting the GIDFEST summer of '22. They will handle the fireworks display.

09/29/2021

Hear ye, hear ye! The GIDFest will be represented at Fort Yargo in Winder, Ga on Saturday October 9th 2021. Come and wear your Colonial clothing and meet members of the Fort Yargo Historical Society. Fort Yargo is a state park and there is a $5.00 parking fee. ( When I show up in costume, they usually wave me on through but I can't guarantee that.). Come and join us!
(To save any confusion, this is just a get together. The Fort Yargo folks meet the second Saturday of each month and anyone is invited. I, John Gilbert, will be there in period dress. Come and join me for fun and fellowship.)

12/29/2020

Our Democratically controlled County Commission terminated all historic events in Henry County. We were told that historic events, displays, celebrations, and the like where not "family friendly."

02/09/2020

We're working on a new home for the GidFest! We'll keep you informed!

02/09/2020

01/13/2019

Henry County has rejected the festival in favor of a "Family Friendly" event. It appears that flag waiving, patriotic music, the Founding Fathers and the Constitution are not family friendly.

06/18/2018

No festival this year. There was some interest but when I presented a budget, that killed the project.