Good morning, Gainesville.

Hall County Commission will review a proposal from Thumbs Up Mission to develop a retreat center with a chapel, lodging & amenities on Ben Parks Road at its Thursday, 6 p.m. meeting.

Staff recommended denial as the rezoning request conflicts with the rural future land use plan.

Thousands of yellow rubber ducks will race at Lake Lanier soon for the 28th annual Duck Derby, a long-standing tradition that raises funds for youth programs in nearby counties (Hall, Habersham, and Forsyth).

The Center for Puppetry Arts is returning to Gainesville after a 17-year absence to perform free shows at Brenau University's Hosch Theatre for local Hall County students+ a welcome revival of Atlanta arts in our community.

Next week, at the Northeast Georgia History Center (NGHC), Dr. Ben Wynne will discuss Franklin Roosevelt’s pre-war presidency, his New Deal programs, and his Gainesville visit following the 1936 tornado, and he will host a Q&A session after his talk.

DCCM’s proposal for a 25,000 sqft industrial building, storage lots, parking and two stormwater ponds is set for a vote today at 6 p.m. by the Hall County Board of Commissioners at the Government Center (2875 Browns Bridge Road) on over 28 acres near Lula.

Thumbs Up Mission is seeking a 60-acre retreat near Murrayville for cancer patients and their families and plans to include a multipurpose building on the site (further details are pending).

Kiss The Sky - The Jimi Hendrix RE-Experience

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Tickets from $51 — Experience the electrifying tribute to Jimi Hendrix live in Gainesville.

Paint a Watering Can DIY Workshop

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Hall County Library Blackshear Place — All materials provided — Get creative painting a mini ceramic watering can for your plants or decor.

2026 Happy Hippy Llama Show

April 17-19 — Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center — Costs vary — Experience the excitement of double ALSA and ILR-SD points at this vibrant llama show.

Iron Beast II Powerlifting Competition

11 AM – 8 PM — The Beast Sports Center, LLC — Admission details not specified — Witness exciting powerlifting feats at this regional competition.

Ricochet Live Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Tickets required — Experience classic country music from the renowned band known for their chart-topping hits and harmonies.

Southeastern Championship Bull Riding

Gates open at 6 — Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center — Ticket prices vary — Witness thrilling rodeo action at Gainesville's premier bull riding event.

USO Dance and Desserts Fundraiser

7-9 p.m. — Gainesville Civic Center — Fundraiser event — Enjoy a lively 1940s canteen featuring dancing and desserts.

First Friday Concert Series

7-10 p.m. — Main Street Gainesville — Free entry — Enjoy live music in the historic setting of Downtown Gainesville's Square each first Friday of the month.

Foodees Fest at Lakeshore Mall

1 PM - 7 PM — Lakeshore Mall — Free entry — Enjoy a weekend filled with delicious food, unique crafts, and family fun at this community festival.