Good morning, Athens.

At the annual Georgia Economic Outlook hosted by UGA Terry College of Business, experts predicted that Georgia’s economy will slow for the second year due to uncertainty in trade policies, immigration, and labor while strong consumer spending and investments in data centers and transportation hubs keep growth steady.

UGA’s Terry College forecast projects Georgia’s economy will slow to about 1.5% in 2026, raising recession concerns.

Inflation is expected to peak at 3.5% before falling, and housing prices for single-family homes are predicted to drop + these trends are detailed in the annual 43-year outlook from the UGA Selig Center.

At the UGA Economic Outlook on Dec.

12, experts predicted that Georgia’s growth will slow in 2026 due to uncertainty over trade, immigration, and labor while strong consumer spending and regional investments in data centers + defense may support economic resilience.

University of Georgia held its graduation ceremony at Stegeman Coliseum Friday; 31 student-athletes earned degrees (including former football star Justin Houston and Olympic gold medalist Aaliyah Butler).

Residents who receive a misdelivered package in Athens should check the address, contact the carrier (or deliver it to a neighbor) and refrain from opening it, because keeping it can lead to legal issues under Georgia law and federal mail theft rules.

Georgia football and Florida State are planning a neutral site game in Tampa for the 2028 season to replace their scheduled home-and-home series.

Discussions are ongoing between officials from both teams about the proposed change.

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.

BloodKin Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy an evening with BloodKin & Friends featuring special guest Kevn Kinney.

27th Annual Will Chamberlin Memorial Santa Stroll 8K

1:30-5:30 p.m. — Bishop Baptist Church — Entry fee proceeds support outreach programs — Participate in a festive 8K run with a charitable cause.

The Nutcracker Ballet

2:00 – 3:30 PM — The Classic Center — $33.75+ — Experience a dazzling holiday tradition that brings joy and imagination to life through breathtaking performances.

Pee Dee IceCats vs. Athens Rock Lobsters

7:05-8:35 p.m. — The Classic Center — Check for ticket pricing — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of local hockey action with the Pee Dee IceCats facing off against the Athens Rock Lobsters.

Blackberry Smoke Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — The Classic Center — $108.50+ — Experience the vibrant blend of Southern rock, blues, and country from Georgia's own Blackberry Smoke.

Workhorses of the Entertainment/Recreational Industry with Scott Low

7-9 p.m. — The Foundry — $10 adv / $15 door — Experience a soulful night of Americana & Blues with traditional folk and lonesome bluegrass melodies.

Don Toberman: Ping-Pong Champ

8-10 p.m. — Canopy Studio — Tickets required — Experience an absurd and hilarious clown showdown featuring pantomime ping-pong antics.