Poppell Farms opens for the 2021 Fall season, weekends Oct. 2-Oct. 31 2021. 

Poppell Family Farms pumpkin patch, 10-acre maze, hayrides, farm fun, giant outdoor jumping pillows, barnyard & farm games & activities are open every Saturday & Sunday Oct. 2-Oct. 31 2021.

It will be Poppell Farm’s 20th Year Celebration!

Learn more here. 

Poppell Farms, email  here, (912) 586-2215, 1765 Hyma Poppell Loop, Odum, 31555 . On Facebook here. Poppell Farms is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Lowcountry Celebration Park

Visit to the new Lowcountry Celebration Park on Hilton Head Is.

The new park off Pope Avenue near the Coligny Beach parking lot and Coligny Beach Park features:
*The Adventure Playground, named after the ship Captain William Hilton was on when he discovered Hilton Head Island. It features a reimagined design of the ship, playground, wading pool and more.
*An open pavilion and lawn for events.
*A perimeter walk
*Two fitness stations
*Wi-Fi
*The Sandbox Children’s Museum
*Public restrooms

Lowcountry Celebration Park
94 Pope Ave.
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Poppell Farms opens for the 2021 Fall season, weekends Oct. 2-Oct. 31 2021. 

Poppell Family Farms pumpkin patch, 10-acre maze, hayrides, farm fun, giant outdoor jumping pillows, barnyard & farm games & activities are open every Saturday & Sunday Oct. 2-Oct. 31 2021.

It will be Poppell Farm’s 20th Year Celebration!

Learn more here. 

Poppell Farms, email  here, (912) 586-2215, 1765 Hyma Poppell Loop, Odum, 31555 . On Facebook here. Poppell Farms is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

STEAM/MAKER Time, 3-3:45PM Saturdays @ The Sandbox Children’s Museum, Hilton Head Is.

Join The Sandbox Children’s Museum  during the 1:30PM play session for a special STEAM activity @ 3PM.

These hands-on staff-led activities will ignite your child’s love for science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

Designed for children ages 5 and older.

Saturdays Oct. 2-Oct. 23 2021.

Free with admission. Reserve your spot for Sandbox’s 1:30 play session online at  www.thesandbox.org

(Please note the new address below)

80 Nassau St.
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-7645

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The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Disney Cruise Deals with Two Sisters Travel

If you’ve been dreaming of a Disney Cruise, Two Sisters Travel has some incredible last minute deals. Select 3 or 4-night Bahamas sailings this fall onboard the Disney Dream are available at up to 25% off. Take advantage of pricing of only $150 per person, per day for a family of 4.

Disney Cruise Line offers a unique vacation experience that blends entertainment and adventure with comfort and convenience. There is something for everyone on a Disney cruise: relaxing “me” time for the adults, imaginative fun for the kids and exciting family time for all. Every voyage features the world-class hospitality that only Disney can provide, and of course, all of your favorite characters. You’ll even be able to experience the popular Halloween on the High Seas events onboard!

Currently, the Bahamas is requiring that all incoming cruise guests 12 and older must show proof of vaccination and guests younger than 12 must present a negative COVID test taken up to 5 days prior to sailing. These requirements are valid for departures Sept. 3 to Nov. 1, 2021.

Hurry & contact Tara McCoy at Two Sisters Travel for a quote and more information. These cabins will go fast.

Tara McCoy, Vacation Specialist at Two Sisters Travel
843.284.3241
Become a Facebook fan at facebook.com/twosisterstravel

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Two Sisters Travel is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Labor Day Festivities @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill, Sat. Sat. Sept. 4 & Mon. Sept. 6 2021 10AM-3PM
Fort McAllister State Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, GA
Entertaining day for the whole family. Civil War interpreters will fire cannon and rifles throughout the day. Cost: $$9  Tel: 912-727-2339.

Labor Day Commemoration @ Fort Morris Historic Site, Midway, Ga.
Saturday, Sep 4, 2021 10AM-4 PM
Fort Morris Historic Site – Midway, GA
Blacksmithing, woodworking, and other early trade skills will be demonstrated; along with musket and cannon firing demonstrations on the hour. $3- $4.50 912-884-5999.

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Daytrips from Savannah here. 

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No Labor Day Tybee fireworks this year

Brand New Disney Wish Starts Sailing 2022

If you haven’t already heard, Disney Cruise Line is launching their first new ship in a decade! The brand new Disney Wish will set sail June 2022 on 3 and 4-night Bahamas itineraries including stops at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

The ship will be THE destination for families! The Disney Wish will feature brand new entertainment and a new water attraction, AquaMouse. There are new stateroom categories including the first-ever two-story suite onboard Disney Cruise Line. And the new dining options will feature a Frozen-themed restaurant, an interactive Worlds of Marvel, and an adult-only Star Wars™ Hyperspace Lounge.

You can check out the entire ship reveal of the Disney Wish here.

Disney Wish reservations are now open for sailings starting Summer 2022.

Don’t miss out on your chance to be one of the first to experience the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet!

Contact Two Sisters Travel to help you plan your Disney Cruise Line vacation!

Tara McCoy
Two Sisters Travel
843.284.3241

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Two Sisters Travel is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Poppell Farms opens for the 2021 Fall season, weekends Oct. 2-Oct. 31 2021. 

Poppell Family Farms pumpkin patch, 10-acre maze, hayrides, farm fun, giant outdoor jumping pillows, barnyard & farm games & activities are open every Saturday & Sunday Oct. 2-Oct. 31 2021.

It will be Poppell Farm’s 20th Year Celebration!

Learn more here. 

Poppell Farms, email  here, (912) 586-2215, 1765 Hyma Poppell Loop, Odum, 31555 . On Facebook here. Poppell Farms is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Ignite the Senses Children’s Gym, Bluffton, SC 

OPEN GYM for the week of Aug. 9

Open gym 9AM-5PM Mon through Friday. CLOSED Saturday for parties.
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Ignite the Senses Gym is a gym for ALL kids…

At Ignite the Senses, we ignite each child’s curiosity to explore new activities and new social relationships. Ignite the Senses gym is a fun, clean and safe place for kids to play, learn and party.

As Bluffton’s only children’s sensory gym, we intend to spread community awareness and acceptance for those living with Autism in and around the Lowcountry. We will provide a safe and fun indoor environment where autistic and typical children can grow physically, emotionally, and socially together whether in the open gym setting or in any of the small group classes offered.

Ignite the Senses also has a new half day preschool program where children do active learning.

The gym’s motto: It’s OK to be DIFFERENT!

Check out the difference Ignite the Senses can make in your family’s life.

Learn more about Ignite the Senses Children’s Gym in Bluffton here.

Ignite the Senses Children’s Gym
163 Bluffton Road, Suite C1
Bluffton, SC 29910

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Ignite the Senses Children’s Gym is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

The Sandbox Children’s Museum open @ new Hilton Head Is. location

Don’t miss playing and learning at the new Sandbox Children’s Museum at Lowcountry Celebration Park on Hilton Head Is.

Make your reservation online to secure your spot!

Saturday: 2 play sessions 10AM & 1:30PM
Sunday at 1:30PM

Learn more here.

(Please note the new address below)

80 Nassau St.
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-7645

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The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

World Ranger Day @ Fort King George State Historic Site, Darien

In recognition of World Ranger Day, join rangers @ Fort King George State Historic Site in Darien, Ga. for a fun, activity-packed day where any Junior Ranger can earn a Georgia “Go Do” patch on Sat. July 31 2021.

Traditionally, to earn one of these patches requires completing each category five times. This year if anyone participates in one of these activities on July 31 2021, they can earn the patch!

Fort King George is offering 2 programs with 2 patches. Complete a scavenger hunt through the Fort, collecting clues, and earn an Outdoor Fun patch. Or, help rangers create a flourishing colonial medicine garden and earn a Kids Care patch.

Cost: $4.50-$7.50

Fort King George State Historic Site
302 McIntosh Road SE
Darien, GA 31305
McIntosh County
912-437-4770.

Learn more here. 

Here are a few new kid-friendly spots to check out in Savannah & the Lowcountry that have opened in 2021.

New location of The Sandbox Children’s Museum, Lowcountry Celebration Park, Hilton Head Is. 

Lowcountry Celebration Park – which opened in December 2020 – includes Adventure Playground for kids, a discovery trail, pavilion and lawn for festivals, exercise stations, Wi-Fi, restrooms.

The Sandbox Children’s Museum has moved there, too, to its new location (pictured above).

Purchase tickets to the Sandbox Children’s Museum online here.

The Sandbox will have 3-hour play sessions! Hours vary by day so check out the availability on the Sandbox calendar.

(Please note the new address below)

The Sandbox Children’s Museum HHI,
80 Nassau St.
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-7645

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New Skidaway Island State Park Visitor Center, Savannah

The new visitor center @ Skidaway Island State Park includes floor-to-ceiling windows to showcase the maritime forest and marsh plus birding from a screened porch; a 20-feet high giant ground sloth skeleton, a replica of an ancient fossil found within the park in 1822; nature exhibits including turtles and snakes; a gift shop is filled with clothing, toys, books, camping supplies, jewelry and local foods. The visitor center also includes meeting space, classroom space and staff offices.

Skidway Is. State Park regularly offers kid-friendly events. Find the schedule here. 

Summer Discount Code

SouthernMamas.com and Friends of Georgia State Parks are partnering to make it even easier to get outside with your kids this summer.

SouthernMamas.com readers can receive a 15 percent discount on Friends of Georgia State Parks membership levels.  Use the code southernmama to get your discount.This discount is valid through July 31 2021.

Get your discount here. 

Skidaway Is. State Park
52 Diamond Causeway
Savannah, GA 31411

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Bike rides in Savannah

Savannah mom-tween bonding on bikes during Downtown Savannah Tree Tour? Read how that turned out here in our newspaper column.

Just want to check out the Downtown Savannah Tree Tour by bike? See the map & detailed description of each stop on Bike Walk Savannah here. 

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Mohawk Lake trail, Savannah

Mohawk Lake Trail
The 17-acre lake (pictured above) located at 1132 Mohawk Street now has a new walking/jogging trail and dog park that opened in July 2021.

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Savannah’s Truman Linear Park Trail

A roughly three-mile section of the proposed six-mile public Truman Linear Park Trail runs between Lake Mayer and East DeRenne Avenue, parallel to the Truman Parkway and Casey Canal. Part of the trail includes a boardwalk (pictured below) that runs through a woodsy section of Magnolia Park neighborhood. Learn more here. 

Truman Linear Park Trail, Savannah

Richmond Hill Independence Day Celebration, Sat. July 3 2021
Sat. July 3 2021, 4:30-10:30PM JF Gregory Park, Richmond Hill
Free & open to the public.
Family fun with entertainment, fireworks, food, inflatables and more.
Admission is free. Learn more here.

Savannah-area fireworks, Sat. July 3 2021
Savannah Bananas home baseball game & fireworks Sat. July 3 2021. Fireworks immediately following the game. Details here.

Savannah Stars and Stripes July 4th Weekend festivities at Savannah’s Plant Riverside District
July 2-5 1-10PM
Featuring live music, Savannah Cirque performances, nightly fountain shows, a July 4 boat parade (3-5PM) & July 4 fireworks show (9:15PM).
400 W River St.
Details here.

July 4th Fireworks @ The Pier @ Tybee Island, Sun. July 4 2021 
Sun. July 4, 2021, 9:15PM
Tybee’s annual celebration of America’s birthday. Independence day fireworks start between 9:15 pm and 9:30 pm. The show is staged on the pier but is easily viewed from any of Tybee Island’s eastern beaches.

Savannah Fireworks, River Street, Sun. July 4 2021
Savannah’s Waterfront will host the annual Independence Day Fireworks Show on Sun. July 4th at 9:15PM.
New to Independence Day this year: Freedom Floats Boat Parade. This All-American Boat Parade will pass by Plant Riverside District between 3:30-5PM July 4.
More information here.

HILTON HEAD IS. FIREWORKS

Shelter Cove Harbour Fireworks, Sun. July 4
HarbourFest on July 4 at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is an expanded version of the activities at Shelter Cove each Tuesday night during summer. Entertainment; children’s activities, food and more. Activities start at approximately 6PM., with fireworks at 9PM.
More information here. 

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Fourth of July activities 

(Savannah) Free ice cream for kids 12 &  younger for reciting the Pledge of Allegiance 4-7PM Thurs. July 1 & Monday afternoons during July @ Leopold’s Ice Cream. Details here.

(Richmond Hill) Independence Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park
Sat. July 3, 2021 10AM-3PM
Celebrate Independence Day like it’s 1864. An old-fashioned celebration with living history demonstrations and musket demonstrations. $9. 912-727-2339.

(Hilton Head Is) FREE special July 4th outdoor performances with beloved kids-entertainer Gregg Russell @ Harbour Town in Sea Pines Resort, 8-9:30PM Sun. July 4. ($9 per vehicle gate fee). Details here. 

Water parks have reopened for Summer 2021.

Who is ready for lazy river, spray pads & waterslides ?

Here are water parks in Statesboro, Jekyll Island & Charleston. (The Pooler water park – Surf Lagoon – is closed).

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Water Parks Near Savannah

Splash In The Boro opens for the 2021 summer season May 22 2021.
45 miles from Savannah in Statesboro, Ga.
Water Slides – 2 body slides and 1 inner tube slide wind around each other and finish with a plunge into a common wave pool. The park has a double flowrider , a 5-lane mat racer, a spray pad and slides for toddlers, 3 tube slides, a lazy river.

Open starting May 22. For hours click here.

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Summer Waves opening weekend May 14 2021.
75 Miles from Savannah on Jekyll Island.

Summer Waves Water Park located on Jekyll Island with 11 acres of splashing summertime fun for the whole family. Nine exciting attractions including six water slides, wave pool, lazy river, splash zone and kiddie area.

Open May 14. For hours, click here. Hours are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm Summer Waves is open.  912.635.2074

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Charleston, SC Water Parks

Splash Zone Waterpark
at James Island County Park
871 Riverland Drive
Charleston, SC 29412
79 Miles from Savannah in Charleston, SC
Opens May 15 2021.
Schedule here.
200-foot tube slide – 200-foot open slide – Caribbean play structure with slides, wheels, and sprays – 500-foot lazy river with an adventure channel featuring sprays and a waterfall – Leisure pool – open seasonally

Whirlin Waters Adventure Waterpark
87 miles from Savannah in North Charleston, SC
Opens May 15 2021.
Schedule here.
Fun for all ages, Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark is located within North Charleston Wannamaker County Park and offers seasonal, island-style water play packed into over 15-acres.
Rip Tide Run mat racer takes riders on an exciting head-to-head competition over gut wrenching bumps, accelerating riders towards the finish line. (minimum height of 42”)

Splash Island Waterpark
91 miles away in Mount Pleasant, SC
Opens May 15 2021.
Schedule here. 
200-foot water slide – 16-foot otter slide – Sprays, geysers, and raindrop waterfalls – The Cyclone, a 10-minute swirling water ride – Recreational pool

Join The Sandbox Children’s Museum on Hilton Head Is. OUTSIDE at their new Lowcountry Celebration Park location on Monday evenings at 6:30PM starting Mon. June 14 2021 for a free show from Rick Hubbard and his kazoo band on the museum’s porch.

Lowcountry Celebration Park is located off Pope Avenue near the Coligny Beach parking lot.

Stay tuned for news on the opening date of The Sandbox Children’s Museum’s new building. The museum’s former 18 Pope Ave. location is now closed.

Meanwhile, The Sandbox 2 @ Tanger 2 Outlets in Bluffton SC is open. Learn more here.

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The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Snow-capped Mount Hood & snow-capped biking 84-year-old grandmother with grandkids

Escape Adventures Volcanoes & Waterfalls Road Bike Tour

Biking down the mountainside of Washington state’s highest peak – snow-capped Mount Rainer – with their 84-year grandmother, cousins and aunts and uncles was a favorite part of what is now known as my kids’ best vacation ever.

Well-played Escape Adventures and thank you.

The secret to the success of this bike tour company’s 5-day Volcanoes and Waterfalls road bike tour is simple: savoring the sights of the Pacific Northwest while pedaling like mad. It’s the perfect way to keep pre-teens and teens interested in all the stunning nature surrounding them – because they are immersed in it.  Pedaling through mountain tunnels, past snow banks, lush fern-floor forests and enticing cherry orchards in the rain and sun beats scenic driving anytime.

We cycled down Oregon’s tallest peak, Mount Hood; the foothills of Mount St. Helen’s; through Gifford Pinchot National Forest; and along the historic Columbia River Highway in Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and within view of Mount Adams.

One morning, we drove across the Bridge of the Gods and took a biking break to hike up Multnomah Falls, Oregon’s tallest waterfall.

Multnomah Falls, photo by Escape Adventures

The rugged beauty we experienced every single day now feels dreamlike. Words like picturesque and scenic do not adequately describe the diverse grace of the Cascade Mountain range and surroundings.

Escape Adventures three guides provided the biking expertise; the knowledge of the area; the transportation; the meals and snacks; the lodging insight (Skamania Lodge & Whitakers Bunkhouse were ideal settings for our crew) and most importantly- the vigor and charisma that comes from doing a job they so clearly love.

Apres-bike with our guides in the Adirondack-chair bedecked lawn of Skamania Lodge (within the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area).

Join The Sandbox Children’s Museum on Hilton Head Is. OUTSIDE at their new Lowcountry Celebration Park location on Monday evenings at 6:30PM starting Mon. June 14 2021 for a free show from Rick Hubbard and his kazoo band on the museum’s porch.

Lowcountry Celebration Park is located off Pope Avenue near the Coligny Beach parking lot.

Stay tuned for news on the opening date of The Sandbox Children’s Museum’s new building. The museum’s former 18 Pope Ave. location is now closed.

Meanwhile, The Sandbox 2 @ Tanger 2 Outlets in Bluffton SC is open. Learn more here.

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The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

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Speaking of kazoos – don’t forget about this fun daytrip from Savannah: The Kazoo Factory, also known has Kazoobie Kazoos, in Beaufort, S.C..

The Kazoo Factory offers museum tours where kids can see how kazoos are made. The museum tours show how kazoos are assembled,
imprinted, packaged and shipped to all corners of the world. Kids can also make their own kazoos to take home.

Factory Tour Hours
Monday – Friday
Book a tour online here. 
Admission includes a build-it-yourself kazoo)

This might be a good activity to pair with a visit to the lighthouse at Hunting Island near Beaufort.  Info on Hunting Island here.

The Kazoo Factory, 12 John Galt Road, Beaufort, SC 29906,  (800) 326-0358, http://www.thekazoofactory.com/

Both Skidaway Island State Park (Savannah) & Fort McAllister State Park (Richmond Hill) offer Junior Ranger Saturdays this summer 2021. Parents can drop off kids ages 6-12 on certain Saturdays to participate in hands-on programs at the state parks. Details on that as well as other kid-friendly events at both state parks below.

Summer Discount Code

SouthernMamas.com and Friends of Georgia State Parks are partnering to make it even easier to get outside with your kids this summer.

SouthernMamas.com readers can receive a 15 percent discount on Friends of Georgia State Parks membership levels.  Use the code southernmama to get your discount.This discount is valid through July 31 2021.

Get your discount here. 

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Upcoming kids’ happenings @ Skidaway Is. State Park in Savannah:

Junior Ranger Saturdays @ Skidaway Is. State Park 
On every Saturday this Summer 2021 @ Skidaway Is. State Park in Savannah, participate with hands-on programs and work on earning your Jr. Ranger badge at Junior Ranger Saturdays.
Weekly events include birding, hiking, archery, exploring the park’s Interpretive Center and meeting the park’s live critters. Be sure to pack a lunch, snack, water bottle, bug spray and sun screen.
Each Saturday will be limited to 15 Junior Rangers. For ages 6-12.
The day begins at 8:30AM and pick up is at 4PM. The last Saturday is July 31.
Cost: $15. Parking: $5.
Learn more here. 

Reading Ranger @ Skidaway Is State Park, Savannah
Free
Fri. June 4 2021, 3PM
Listen to Skidaway Is. State Park Ranger read aloud the children’s books “Fun with the Fairway Foxes”. This book is written by a local of Skidaway Island, Sara Lucas, she also took all of the pictures shown in the book. Please pre-register by calling the park’s office: 912-598-2300

Archery @ Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah
Fri. June 11, 2021, 10-10:45AM
Learn the basics of archery and test your skills on our archery range. This program will cover basic safety and technique. Equipment will be provided. Participants must be at least 10 years old. Advance registration required as space will be limited to 4 participants, and social distancing will be required. Call:  912-598-2300. Cost: $10 plus $5 parking.

Father’s Day Movie Night @ Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah
Fri. June 18, 2021, 8:30PM
Bring the family out for a movie under the stars. We will be showing “Kicking & Screaming” starring Will Ferrell. Be sure to bring your own chairs or blanket and favorite movie snacks. The movie will be located behind the visitor center. Please pre-register for the program by calling the park’s number:  912-598-2300

Father’s Day Card Craft @ Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah
Sun. June 20, 2021 at 11AM
Make your Dad a festive Father’s Day card using what you find in the park. Art supplies and paper will be provided. Please pre-register for the program by calling our park’s office:  912-598-2300

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Upcoming kids’ happenings @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill

Junior Ranger Weekend (Saturday) Camps 2021 @ Fort McAllister State Park
10AM-4PM June 12, June 26, July 10, July 24. Learn more here.

Night Fort Tour @ Fort McAllister State Park
Friday, June 18, 2021 8:45-9:45 PM
Come experience the beauty and tranquility of Fort McAllister at night on this ranger-guided tour of the fort. We will recount history and tell stories of Georgia’s last battle of the Civil War. Space is limited to 10 people. Pre-register and pay admission before 6:30PM in person, or by calling the park office at 912-727-2339. 912-727-2339.

Crabbing @ Fort McAllister State Park
Sun. Jun 20, 2021 11AM-1PM
Limited space available, Please RSVP. Want to go crabbing? We will learn the different kinds of traps to use, what to use for bait, and the best times for crabbing. Please bring a bucket for crabs, chair, water, and sunscreen. We can provide 1 Crab trap and bait per family, but you may also bring your own. *Georgia Fishing license required. $5 plus $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Independence Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park
Sat. July 3, 2021 10AM-3PM
Celebrate Independence Day like it’s 1864. Join us for an old-fashioned celebration with living history demonstrations and musket demonstrations. $9. 912-727-2339.

Richmond Hill Independence Day Celebration, Sat. July 3 2021
Sat. July 3 2021, 4:30-10:30PM JF Gregory Park, Richmond Hill
Free & open to the public.
Family fun with entertainment, fireworks, food, inflatables and more.
Admission is free. Learn more here.

Savannah-area fireworks, Sat. July 3 2021
Savannah Bananas home baseball game & fireworks Sat. July 3 2021. Fireworks immediately following the game. Details here.

Savannah Stars and Stripes July 4th Weekend festivities at Savannah’s Plant Riverside District
July 2-5 1-10PM
Featuring live music, Savannah Cirque performances, nightly fountain shows, a July 4 boat parade (3-5PM) & July 4 fireworks show (9:15PM).
400 W River St.
Details here.

July 4th Fireworks @ The Pier @ Tybee Island, Sun. July 4 2021 
Sun. July 4, 2021, 9:15PM
Tybee’s annual celebration of America’s birthday. Independence day fireworks start between 9:15 pm and 9:30 pm. The show is staged on the pier but is easily viewed from any of Tybee Island’s eastern beaches.

Savannah Fireworks, River Street, Sun. July 4 2021
Savannah’s Waterfront will host the annual Independence Day Fireworks Show on Sun. July 4th at 9:15PM.
New to Independence Day this year: Freedom Floats Boat Parade. This All-American Boat Parade will pass by Plant Riverside District between 3:30-5PM July 4.
More information here.

HILTON HEAD IS. FIREWORKS

Shelter Cove Harbour Fireworks, Sun. July 4
HarbourFest on July 4 at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is an expanded version of the activities at Shelter Cove each Tuesday night during summer. Entertainment; children’s activities, food and more. Activities start at approximately 6PM., with fireworks at 9PM.
More information here. 

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Fourth of July activities 

(Savannah) Free ice cream for kids 12 &  younger for reciting the Pledge of Allegiance 4-7PM Thurs. July 1 & Monday afternoons during July @ Leopold’s Ice Cream. Details here.

(Richmond Hill) Independence Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park
Sat. July 3, 2021 10AM-3PM
Celebrate Independence Day like it’s 1864. An old-fashioned celebration with living history demonstrations and musket demonstrations. $9. 912-727-2339.

(Hilton Head Is) FREE special July 4th outdoor performances with beloved kids-entertainer Gregg Russell @ Harbour Town in Sea Pines Resort, 8-9:30PM Sun. July 4. ($9 per vehicle gate fee). Details here. 

SouthernMamas.com and Friends of Georgia State Parks are partnering to make it even easier to get outside with your kids this summer.

SouthernMamas.com readers can receive a 15 percent discount on Friends of Georgia State Parks membership levels.  Use the code southernmama to get your discount.This discount is valid through July 31 2021.

Get your discount here. 

Thanks Friends of Georgia State Parks for giving our readers this special summer discount!

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Upcoming kids’ happenings @ Skidaway Is. State Park in Savannah:

Junior Ranger Saturdays @ Skidaway Is. State Park 
On every Saturday this Summer 2021 @ Skidaway Is. State Park in Savannah, participate with hands-on programs and work on earning your Jr. Ranger badge at Junior Ranger Saturdays.
Weekly events include birding, hiking, archery, exploring the park’s Interpretive Center and meeting the park’s live critters. Be sure to pack a lunch, snack, water bottle, bug spray and sun screen.
Each Saturday will be limited to 15 Junior Rangers. For ages 6-12.
The day begins at 8:30AM and pick up is at 4PM. The last Saturday is July 31.
Cost: $15. Parking: $5.
Learn more here. 

Reading Ranger @ Skidaway Is State Park, Savannah
Free
Fri. June 4 2021, 3PM
Listen to Skidaway Is. State Park Ranger read aloud the children’s books “Fun with the Fairway Foxes”. This book is written by a local of Skidaway Island, Sara Lucas, she also took all of the pictures shown in the book. Please pre-register by calling the park’s office: 912-598-2300

Archery @ Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah
Fri. June 11, 2021, 10-10:45AM
Learn the basics of archery and test your skills on our archery range. This program will cover basic safety and technique. Equipment will be provided. Participants must be at least 10 years old. Advance registration required as space will be limited to 4 participants, and social distancing will be required. Call:  912-598-2300. Cost: $10 plus $5 parking.

Father’s Day Movie Night @ Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah
Fri. June 18, 2021, 8:30PM
Bring the family out for a movie under the stars. We will be showing “Kicking & Screaming” starring Will Ferrell. Be sure to bring your own chairs or blanket and favorite movie snacks. The movie will be located behind the visitor center. Please pre-register for the program by calling the park’s number:  912-598-2300

Father’s Day Card Craft @ Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah
Sun. June 20, 2021 at 11AM
Make your Dad a festive Father’s Day card using what you find in the park. Art supplies and paper will be provided. Please pre-register for the program by calling our park’s office:  912-598-2300

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Upcoming kids’ happenings @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill

Junior Ranger Weekend (Saturday) Camps 2021 @ Fort McAllister State Park
10AM-4PM June 12, June 26, July 10, July 24. Learn more here.

Night Fort Tour @ Fort McAllister State Park
Friday, June 18, 2021 8:45-9:45 PM
Come experience the beauty and tranquility of Fort McAllister at night on this ranger-guided tour of the fort. We will recount history and tell stories of Georgia’s last battle of the Civil War. Space is limited to 10 people. Pre-register and pay admission before 6:30PM in person, or by calling the park office at 912-727-2339. 912-727-2339.

Crabbing @ Fort McAllister State Park
Sun. Jun 20, 2021 11AM-1PM
Limited space available, Please RSVP. Want to go crabbing? We will learn the different kinds of traps to use, what to use for bait, and the best times for crabbing. Please bring a bucket for crabs, chair, water, and sunscreen. We can provide 1 Crab trap and bait per family, but you may also bring your own. *Georgia Fishing license required. $5 plus $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Independence Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park
Sat. July 3, 2021 10AM-3PM
Celebrate Independence Day like it’s 1864. Join us for an old-fashioned celebration with living history demonstrations and musket demonstrations. $9. 912-727-2339.

Junior Ranger Saturdays @ Skidaway Is. State Park 

On every Saturday this Summer 2021 @ Skidaway Is. State Park in Savannah, participate with hands-on programs and work on earning your Jr. Ranger badge at Junior Ranger Saturdays.

Weekly events include birding, hiking, archery, exploring the park’s Interpretive Center and meeting the park’s live critters. Be sure to pack a lunch, snack, water bottle, bug spray and sun screen.

Each Saturday will be limited to 15 Junior Rangers. For ages 6-12.

The day begins at 8:30AM and pick up is at 4PM. The last Saturday is July 31.

Cost: $15. Parking: $5.

Learn more here. 

Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah
52 Diamond Causeway
Saturdays 8:30AM-4 PM
(912) 598-2300

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Summer Discount Code

SouthernMamas.com and Friends of Georgia State Parks are partnering to make it even easier to get outside with your kids this summer.

SouthernMamas.com readers can receive a 15 percent discount on Friends of Georgia State Parks membership levels.  Use the code southernmama to get your discount.This discount is valid through July 31 2021.

Get your discount here. 

FREE Family-friendly Party in the Park @ Lowcountry Celebration Park on Hilton Head Is.

On the following days now through Nov. 4 2021, 5:30-8PM
Thurs. Aug. 12
Thurs. Aug. 19
Thurs. Sept. 16
Fri. Oct. 8
Thurs. Nov. 4

Free & open to the public.

Enjoy the beautiful new LCP with Party in the Park.  Live music, bounce houses, and beverages.

Bounce houses provided by Extreme Firehouse. Beverages provided by Southern Eagle and Coca-Cola sold separately.

Learn more here.

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FREE outdoor performances with beloved kids-entertainer Gregg Russell @ Harbour Town in Sea Pines Resort

Gregg Russell’s Harbour Town concerts start Friday evening of Memorial Day weekend. His concert schedule will also include performances from 8-9:30PM Monday-Friday, June 2-Aug. 20 2021 with special shows planned for July 4, Labor Day weekend.

Free concert, but $9 gate fee per vehicle to enter Sea Pines Resort.

Concert schedule:

June 2-Aug. 20 2021
Every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday through August 20
8-9:30PM
Also 8-9:30PM on:
Mon. Aug. 23
Wed. Aug. 25
Fri. Aug. 27
Sept. 2-5 (Labor Day Weekend)
Harbour Town
149 Lighthouse Road
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

To protect the health of guests and staff, The Sea Pines Resort will spread out seating and recommend concert attendees wear a mask and practice social distancing. Guests are welcome to bring their own folding chairs and sit on the lawn area adjacent to the bench seating.

Find more information on this year’s Gregg Russell concerts @ seapines.com/events or The Sea Pines Resort recreation department at (843) 842-1979.

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Summer Jams 2021 with Fireworks @ Shelter Cove Community Park, Hilton Head Is.

Every Tuesday Night June 15- Aug. 17 2021, 6-9PM

Free & open to the public.

Festive atmosphere with the highlight of the night fireworks which start around 9PM. Kids of all ages can enjoy inflatable bounce houses and face painting for a minimal fee. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the fireworks.

Shelter Cove Community Park
39 Shelter Cove Lane
Hilton Head Is. SC 29928

Drive-in Laser Light Show, May 20-23 2021
@ Kiwanis Ogeechee Fairground, Statesboro
2 laser shows per night, including one on Sunday: 8:30PM & 10:00PM
Bring your own chairs, blankets and refreshments
Cost: $29 per car
Tickets available at Cabin Fever Laser Light Show: www.CabinFeverLaserShow.com
Tickets must be purchased in advance. Cash not accepted at the gate.

Water parks will be reopening for Summer 2021.

Who is ready for lazy river, spray pads & waterslides ?

Here are water parks in Statesboro, Jekyll Island & Charleston. (The Pooler water park – Surf Lagoon – is closed).

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Water Parks Near Savannah

Splash In The Boro opens for the 2021 summer season May 22 2021.
45 miles from Savannah in Statesboro, Ga.
Water Slides – 2 body slides and 1 inner tube slide wind around each other and finish with a plunge into a common wave pool. The park has a double flowrider , a 5-lane mat racer, a spray pad and slides for toddlers, 3 tube slides, a lazy river.

Open starting May 22. For hours click here.

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Summer Waves opening weekend May 14 2021.
75 Miles from Savannah on Jekyll Island.

Summer Waves Water Park located on Jekyll Island with 11 acres of splashing summertime fun for the whole family. Nine exciting attractions including six water slides, wave pool, lazy river, splash zone and kiddie area.

Open May 14. For hours, click here. Hours are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm Summer Waves is open.  912.635.2074

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Charleston, SC Water Parks

Splash Zone Waterpark
at James Island County Park
871 Riverland Drive
Charleston, SC 29412
79 Miles from Savannah in Charleston, SC
Opens May 15 2021.
Schedule here.
200-foot tube slide – 200-foot open slide – Caribbean play structure with slides, wheels, and sprays – 500-foot lazy river with an adventure channel featuring sprays and a waterfall – Leisure pool – open seasonally

Whirlin Waters Adventure Waterpark
87 miles from Savannah in North Charleston, SC
Opens May 15 2021.
Schedule here.
Fun for all ages, Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark is located within North Charleston Wannamaker County Park and offers seasonal, island-style water play packed into over 15-acres.
Rip Tide Run mat racer takes riders on an exciting head-to-head competition over gut wrenching bumps, accelerating riders towards the finish line. (minimum height of 42”)

Splash Island Waterpark
91 miles away in Mount Pleasant, SC
Opens May 15 2021.
Schedule here. 
200-foot water slide – 16-foot otter slide – Sprays, geysers, and raindrop waterfalls – The Cyclone, a 10-minute swirling water ride – Recreational pool