Good morning, Athens.

Many major retailers in Georgia will be closed on Thanksgiving and open early on Black Friday—hours vary by store such as American Eagle, Walmart, and Home Depot.

Shoppers should check local schedules as some chains open as early as 5 a.m. while others start later on Black Friday—details differ by retailer.

The University of Georgia ranked No. 1 for short-term study abroad participation and No. 5 overall according to the 2025 Open Doors Report by the Institute of International Education.

Over 3,300 UGA students earned academic credit abroad last year in 68 countries, and the school will offer 154 programs for the 2025–26 academic year—showing a strong focus on global education.

Georgia Power is asking the Public Service Commission to add 10 gigawatts of energy to the grid and analysts say that could mean higher utility bills.

The commission is reviewing the request (further details are pending).

Health inspectors found that American Deli in Athens posted an outdated health report during inspections conducted between Nov.

11th and 24th—officials said the violation, which included failing to provide the current report, led to a low score of 81.

The UGA women's basketball team beat Georgia Tech 87-59 on Nov.

23 at Stegeman Coliseum in Athens—photos captured key plays during the game.

This week in Athens, UGA women’s basketball beat Jacksonville State and North Florida and the men’s team defeated Florida A&M, while University Union hosted Music Mania and Athens Academy held its Holiday Market—Holy Innocents played Athens Academy, UGA faced Charlotte in football and the swim teams hosted the Georgia Fall Invitational—highlighting a busy week of athletic and community events.

During Georgia-Georgia Tech week for Georgia football, Banner-Herald's Marc Weiszer broke down Kirby Smart's press conference to explain the coach's remarks.

A Tribute to The Band

7-8:30 p.m. — The Foundry — Fundraiser for Food Bank of Northeast Georgia — Celebrate the spirit of community with an evening of legendary music and local songwriters.

Athens Farmers Market

8 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Bishop Park — Free entry — Discover fresh local produce and handmade goods from over 40 vendors every Saturday.

YBH® Symbiotic Birth Course

7-9 p.m. — M2b Family Farm — Registration required — A comprehensive birth course for expecting parents focused on natural and low intervention childbirth.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Classic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a breathtaking holiday spectacular combining circus arts with beloved seasonal favorites.

Corey Smith Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Georgia Theatre — Tickets required — Experience Corey Smith's homecoming performance showcasing songs from his 10th album.

WILLIS Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — $32+ — Experience the indie rock sound of WILLIS, a band with viral success and a loyal fanbase.

Nuçi's Space 25th Anniversary Benefit Concert

6:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. — Nuçi's Space — Ticket information not available — Celebrate 25 years of music, healing, and community with live performances from beloved local musicians.

Athens Winter Wonderland Craft and Vendor Market

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Tanger Outlets Commerce — Free entry — Discover unique handmade crafts and festive goods at this magical holiday market.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Performance by Good Grief Trio

7-9 p.m. — Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture — Tickets $15-20, Family pack for $60 — Enjoy a soulful rendition of the beloved holiday classic with the Good Grief Trio.

Now After Nothing Concert

8 PM – 12 AM — Flicker Theatre & Bar — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of music featuring Fixation Fantasy by Now After Nothing.