Athens Twilight 2008

Spring is finally here and although it may not be football season yet, Athens draws crowds from all over to enjoy the off-season tailgate of year.



Nothing marks the advent of summer and the end of a semester more than Athens Twilight Criterium, commonly called Twilight. Athens downtown is transformed into a Mecca for bikers and spectators. The 29th Annual event was held on April 25-26.

Renowned for the bike races held on the downtown track that runs over Clayton and Washington Street, Twilight offers than just the proclaimed men’s and women’s cycling that occurred Saturday night. Walking down College Ave., there was a stage set up for live bands, a stunt park, a kid’s play area with moonwalks. Also, at anytime of the day you would be sure to see some type of race, be it the kid’s bike race, a 5K or just a race for inebriation between friends.

It seems like everyone- families, students, alumni- comes out to experience Twilight.

See what fellow UGA students, Lee and Cameron have to say about it.


Since Twilight is my one of my favorite events in Athens, here are a few tips for you to enjoy for next year’s festivities to the max:

1. Be sure to check out the music scene.
2. Head down to Lumpkin St. by Georgia Theatre to see the turns during the bike races
3. Don’t walk around with an open container. This is a common misconception. You have to be within sanctioned areas.
4. Find a friend with a loft overlooking Clayton or Washington Street for the best view of the races.
5. Take time to watch the stunts over in the stunt park on College Ave.

Karaoke in Athens

We all know Athens is recognized for the music scene; the city with the “new sounds” resounding out of Georgia Theatre, 40 watt and Caledonia. But what about the other sounds you hear from the unorthodox venues.

Athens not only offers the spotlight to the professionals, but there is a chance for every shower, car and hair brush singer to shine; just pop into any of the karaoke spots. Whether you’re looking for a spot where you can show off your vocals for a crowd or prefer the intimate serenade, Athens provides great karaoke spots everyday of the week.

If it is the public performance you prefer, then consider every Tuesday and Thursday your open-mic night at Walker’s Coffee Shop and Pub. Entering into Walkers, you may not find many patrons hanging around upstairs in their usual manner, but don’t worry, they are all downstairs signing up for their favorite songs. The stage is right next to the stairs and the books and the sign-up list is on the bar. It gets pretty crowded so be sure to get there early if you want to sing more than one song. Also, be sure to arrive before midnight if you want a chance to sing at all. Walker’s draws both people with talent and well, let’s just say, people who like to have fun and is a perfect way to enjoy Athens nightlife.

If you’re not ready to take your show on the road, grab your favorite groupies and head over to Shokitini. You can rent out a karaoke room by the hour equipped full with two screens for lyrics and a vast list of songs. The servers bring drinks up to the room and you don’t have to worry about waiting to take the spotlight as the room is only full of friends. This private room is ideal for parties.

Also, Wild Wings is supposed to have it, but I have yet to try this location.


Major Perk: different way to spend your night downtown
Minor Quirk: Walkers- long wait time
Shokitini- a bit pricey