Thursday, February 26th, 2026
Good morning, Athens. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Legion Pool, a New Deal-era site with strong local ties, is set to be demolished by UGA for a new gathering space and sand volleyball courts, despite its inclusion on Georgia’s 2026 Places in Peril list. Community members expressed support for its historic value. Athens Banner-Herald
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Shake Shack will open its first Athens restaurant (Georgia’s first drive-thru) on Wednesday, March 4 at 10:30 a.m. at 161 Alps Rd., serving its signature menu of ShackBurger, sandwiches, fries, and shakes. Athens Banner-Herald
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Athens stargazers will witness a rare planet parade on Saturday, Feb. 28 when six planets align about 30 minutes after sunset. Four—Saturn, Neptune, Venus and Mercury—are visible without equipment while Jupiter and Uranus need a telescope or binoculars. Athens Banner-Herald
- ➤ Country singer Megan Moroney surprised fans with a Monday night show at Akins Ford Arena, drawing over 7,000 people and turning downtown Athens pink. She performed her new album Cloud 9 in full & led the crowd in the UGA chant, with ticket sales benefiting her foundation. FOX 5 Atlanta
- ➤ The Historic Athens Welcome Center is hosting a Women’s History Month exhibit titled 'The Women Who Changed Athens,' honoring eight women in education, medicine, journalism, art and activism. Open through March at 280 E. Dougherty St., it will hold a reception on Wednesday, March 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. Athens Banner-Herald
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ UGA professor Sarah Pickett, known for her engaging and accessible music classes, influenced her students profoundly before passing away after a long illness. A Renaissance ensemble will dedicate its April concert to her lasting impact + celebrate her authenticity. The Red & Black
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The University of Georgia baseball team lost 6-5 to Troy in a 12-inning contest at Foley Field on Wednesday, Feb. 25 & marked their second loss of the season. The Red & Black
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Spirit Brands North American Open 2026
8:00 AM - 7:59 AM — 300 N Thomas St, Athens, GA — Fee required — Cheer on all-star teams as they compete at this exciting multi-day cheerleading event.
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K-Pop Golden Show
6:00-9:30 p.m. — Morton Theatre — Adults $30, Children $20 — Enjoy an entertaining blend of music, dance, and comedy for the whole family based on the movie K-Pop Demon Hunters.
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Cracker Concert Series
Doors open at 7:00 PM — 40 Watt Club — $30+ — Experience three nights of diverse performances including a special songwriter circle and a full album play.
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Beggar Weeds & Frankenfinger Performance
9:30 p.m. — Nowhere Bar — Entry Info N/A — Enjoy energetic punk country-blues and post-punk sounds from two vibrant Floridian bands.
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Grupo La Ventaja Live Concert
8 p.m. — RODEO NIGHT CLUB ATHENS — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant sounds of Grupo La Ventaja, a Cumbia Norteña band with captivating rhythms.
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St Joe's Jog 5K
10:30 a.m. — Sandy Creek Park — Registration fees apply — Participate in a community-focused race benefitting St. Joseph Catholic Parish School.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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