Good morning, Athens.

Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services will host a planetarium program on July 19 at Sandy Creek Nature Center’s Sky Center—where participants will explore the summer night sky and learn about stars, constellations and planets.

The program costs $5 for residents and $8 for non-residents and is for ages five and older, with children under 13 needing a registered adult.

An investigation was launched at the Athens-Clarke County Jail after one inmate died on Tuesday and two others were hospitalized with suspected drug overdoses — agents found drugs inside the housing unit, leading to an independent inquiry by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

An inmate died and two others were taken to a local hospital on Tuesday after being found unresponsive in their cells at Athens-Clarke County Jail where suspected drugs were discovered—Clarke County Sheriff’s Office is investigating possible drug smuggling.

Athens was named one of the 25 Best College Towns in the U.S. by Travel — Leisure, which said the town has strong campus energy, creative arts and a close community.

The ranking also noted Athens’ famous music legacy and school pride that brighten the streets each fall.

On Tuesday, July 8, the Taylor-Grady House hosted Stephen T.

Jackson’s book launch for his historical fiction trilogy The Preston Chronicles where guests enjoyed historical Southern cocktails—deviled eggs, shrimp cocktails and French 75s—and listened to speakers like former Athens Mayor Doc Eldridge and Representative Spencer Frye while Jackson signed copies of his book.

Akins Ford Arena in Athens will host indoor ice skating from July 17 to 20 with 90-minute sessions that include skate rentals—groups of ten or more receive discounts—and space is limited.

MODA is hosting summer camps where young people test design ideas and solve real-world challenges (covering fields from architecture to graphic design).

The camps will offer hands-on experiences throughout the summer.

A study from the University of Georgia found that exercise can improve mental health when done in a supportive setting—researchers noted that factors like who you exercise with and where you work out influence its benefits—and the research shows that simply tracking workout minutes does not capture the full impact.

Brad Williams Stand-Up Comedy Show

7-11 p.m. — The Classic Center — $26.00-$121.50 — Experience the hilarious high-energy performance of comedian Brad Williams, famous for his sharp and inspiring humor.

Cottage Charity Golf Tournament

7:30 AM - 1:30 PM — UGA Boyd Golf Center — Support a good cause while enjoying a round of golf for charity.

Athens Restaurant Week

Various times — Restaurants around Athens — Special pricing — Indulge in delicious prix fixe meals and local culinary delights during this week-long food celebration.

34th IAEE Southeastern Classic

8 AM - 12 PM — The Classic Center — $200-$650 — Celebrate 34 years of networking and education in the events industry with industry experts.

Udder Reunion Show

7-9:30 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — $10 — The iconic heavy rock band returns for a record release show featuring local favorites.

Baking from Books

6-8 p.m. — Oconee County Library — Free entry — Create delicious treats inspired by classic literature for grades 6-12.

Nick Smith - New South Tour

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Georgia Theatre — $35+ — Experience a high-octane performance by Nashville's rising country star with a fresh take on modern Southern sound.

Athens Food Truck Event

7-8:30 a.m. — Hilsman Middle School — Free entry — Distributing 30,000 lbs of food to support those in need in the Athens community.

80s Night with Atlanta Vice

8:00–10:30 p.m. — The Foundry — Tickets available — Atlanta Vice returns to jam with the best tunes from the 80s!