Good morning, Athens.

Bear Hollow Zoo hosted a bear birthday party on Friday, May 8 to celebrate resident bears Athena and Yonah turning 16.

Families enjoyed treats, gifts, and wildlife encounters at the free event.

Atomic-6 plans to launch orbital data centers in space where free real estate, solar power, and natural cooling will cut resource use, explained founder and CEO Trevor Smith in an interview posted May 8, 2026.

The company aims to reduce the environmental footprint of traditional centers.

Former UGA football star DJ Shockley addressed graduates at Sanford Stadium on May 8, 2026, urging them to know their worth during the commencement ceremony.

His heartfelt message inspired the crowd at this landmark event.

Pike Nurseries offered tips to attract migrating birds — advice provided on Friday, May 8 to help locals create bird-friendly backyards.

Georgia and Florida State are exploring a neutral site game in Week 0 of the 2028 season.

The teams canceled a scheduled home game series and now have seven cities offering proposals — a move aimed at boosting revenue.

The 2026 GHSA track championships will take place from May 11 to May 14 at UGA Spec Towns Track in Athens, with races starting at 9 a.m. daily and spectators allowed at 8 a.m. Tickets cost $15; limited parking + shuttle service from East Park and Ride is provided.

Steve Wynn with Special Guest Peter Buck

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Rialto Club at Hotel Indigo — Under 18 allowed with guardian — Enjoy an unforgettable night featuring music from Steve Wynn and Peter Buck in downtown Athens.

Weaver D's Food & Entertainment Festival

11 a.m. - 6 p.m. — VFW Post 2872 — Free entry — Celebrate community with food, music, and local culture at this vibrant festival.

Rick Fowler Acoustic Band Blues & Brews Residency

6-8:30 p.m. — Athentic Brewing Co. — $5 — Enjoy original blues-rock tunes from a local favorite in a relaxed brewery setting.

Ride the Airbase Georgia Warbirds

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Athens-Ben Epps Airport — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling ride in classic warbirds at this exciting aviation event.

Cosmic Charlie Concert

8-11 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — Concert tickets available — Experience a lively performance by Cosmic Charlie in the heart of Athens.

Sips & Salads Cooking Class

7-9 p.m. — The Table @ Athens Cooks — $75 — Experience a culinary night of crafting salads paired with wines alongside fellow food enthusiasts.

Wymberly Live at Nowhere Bar

7 p.m. — Nowhere Bar — Check for admission details — Experience the Savannah band Wymberly as they bring their sound to Athens.

The Amazing Acro-Cats' Meowloween Performance

2-4 p.m. — Morton Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience amazing cats performing tricks followed by the unique all-cat band Tuna and the Rock Cats.

Around the World Cooking Challenge Summer Camp for Junior Chefs

9 a.m.-12 p.m. — The Table @ Athens Cooks — $325 — Aspiring young chefs explore global cuisines and sharpen their culinary skills over four fun-filled days.