Changes in Attitudes Up Yonder!

Summer will soon be in full swing in the Coolest Small Town in America, and local events and happenings are heating up. Not too many years ago, I used to hear a common complaint that there was "just not enough to do in Canton." Depending on the person, the comments ranged from not enough music venues to having to drive to other cities for a decent meal, among other grievances.

Fast forward to 2024, and I no longer hear this refrain. Instead, I often hear comments such as, "There are so many things to do around here, I just can't keep up with all of them." Yes, attitudes, for the most part, have changed. Many of our residents and business owners couldn't be happier about the ever-increasing choices they have for events, live music, exceptional culinary experiences, local art, and incomparable outdoor adventure in our parks, on our trails, and those involving the Etowah River. There's never a dull moment in Canton, and the entertainment and recreational opportunities are endless.

When it comes to events, our hallmark First Fridays are back, and June will feature A1A, the Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band. We've come so far in downtown since I worked with Canton Main Street to launch the original First Fridays more than a decade ago. Back in those days, we were lucky to get a couple dozen attendees downtown to hang out without a lot of options for shopping or dining. Today, we easily have more than 5,000 people who attend to hear great bands, shop at Canton's many boutiques and retail establishments, or have a "cheeseburger in paradise" from a local food truck vendor or downtown restaurant.

Additionally, Canton's merchants have added their own events throughout the year — especially this summer. Now, you can attend trivia nights, wine and bourbon tastings, art classes and activities, professional women's soccer games, live music performances and open mic nights, karaoke, and so much more. There are options for every day of the week, not just weekends.

It's truly great when a plan comes together like it has with the City of Canton's Roadmap for Success, but it's even better when the community embraces it and uses the Roadmap for their own entrepreneurial strategies. Yes, it is hard to keep up with all of the amazing things happening in Canton, but you can always start with ExploreCantonGA.com to check out the calendar of events. And while you're at it, invite a few friends from "up yonder" to experience an authentically magical destination.