Summerville is home to one of only a few operating train turntables in the southeastern United States, and is truly a step back in time for train and history buffs alike. The City of Summerville is proud to announce the return of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Steam Engines to the Historic Summerville Depot on Saturday, May 23. The Summerville Turntable will work again, turning the iconic 4501 steam engine for the first time in 2026. A May Market & Melodies event, celebrating with live music and vendors, will be a highlight for the welcome back return of the steam engine with passengers.
The City of Summerville has announced that tickets are now available for the popular Summerville Santa Special train excursions for the 2026 holiday season.
The rides will take place aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s holiday train and are scheduled for November 28-29, December 5-6, and December 11-12.
Organizers say the annual event offers families a festive Christmas experience in downtown Summerville, complete with holiday decorations, shopping, and special activities for children. Officials describe the event as having a “small-town Hallmark movie” atmosphere.
Tickets are priced at $24 for ages 2 and older, and organizers encourage residents to purchase early because the rides traditionally sell out.
Tickets can be purchased through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum website.
A brand-new spring fair is coming to Rome later this month as the inaugural Coosa Valley Spring Fair prepares to open at the Coosa Valley Fairgrounds beginning May 22.
The 5th Annual Chattooga River Fest is set to return to Trion on Saturday, June 13, bringing a full day of outdoor fun, live music, and family-friendly activities to Northwest Georgia.
The event will begin at 10 AM at the Trion Recreation Department and is open to the public.
Organizers say this year’s festival will feature vendors, festival food, outdoor life demonstrations, and educational talks focused on the Chattooga River and surrounding environment. Attendees can also enjoy live local music throughout the day, with The Band Chickamauga scheduled to headline at 4 PM.
Family activities will include a free KidZone with access to the splash pad, as well as a cornhole tournament and other recreational events.
A kayak raffle sponsored by Atrium Health EMS is also planned, along with a free float on the Lower Chattooga River, with additional details expected to be announced soon.
Organizers say the event is pet-friendly but note that pets must be leashed, well-behaved, and meet specific guidelines for safety.
The Chattooga River Fest is organized by Cindy L. Rivers McGraw and the Chattooga River Group, with support from local sponsors including Atrium Health EMS and Pine Ridge Outdoor Supply.
More information, including vendor and participant registration, is available online.
The City of Summerville is gearing up for a unique and inclusive community event designed for individuals with special needs.
Mayor Rickey Hughes announced that Summerville will host a “Touch A Truck” sensory-friendly event on June 13th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon on East Washington Street.
The event will feature a wide variety of vehicles and equipment, including police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, tractors, tow trucks, and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the vehicles up close in a welcoming, reduced-noise environment tailored to sensory sensitivities.
Organizers say the event is focused on creating a friendly, supportive atmosphere with hands-on exploration, allowing children and families to interact with local first responders and community helpers in a comfortable setting.
Free Kona Ice will also be available, thanks to sponsorships from United Community Bank and Southeast First National Bank.
Mayor Hughes expressed appreciation to local exhibitors and sponsors for helping bring the event to life, noting it will be a special day for families across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia.
The community is invited to come out and enjoy a morning of learning, exploration, and fun in a safe and inclusive environment.
The City of Menlo is moving forward with early planning for its annual July 4 celebration, with city leaders discussing dates, activities, and logistics during a recent council work session.
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce will host a special Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon on April 22 to honor the hard work and dedication of administrative professionals across the community.
The City of Summerville is inviting the community out for another night of live music as the Friday Night Concert Series continues on April 24.
The featured performance will be Pink Houses, a John Mellencamp tribute band, taking the stage from 7:30 to 9:30 PM in the East Washington Street Entertainment District. An opening local act will begin at 7 PM.
Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of great music in downtown Summerville. The event is sponsored by the City of Summerville Main Street.
