5 Reasons to Make Madison, Georgia, Your Fourth of July Destination
Historic Madison, Georgia – named one of Country Living’s Best Small Towns in America for 2025 – offers a charming, historic setting to celebrate Independence Day. With special events occurring throughout the holiday weekend, spend this Fourth of July weekend surrounded by small town charm, live music, fireworks and more fun events the whole family will enjoy.
Keep reading to discover 5 Reasons to Make Madison, Georgia, Your Fourth of July Destination and get ready to slow down and experience the spirit of small-town Georgia at its finest.
1. Independence Day Picnic and Concert (free)
On Thursday July 3rd, picnic on the lawn of the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center during the free Independence Day Picnic and Concert. Bring take-out and a blanket or chairs and mingle with locals and visitors alike from 5:30 – 9 p.m. This family-friendly event is a great way to kick off your stay in this classic Southern town, setting the tone for an exciting Fourth of July destination experience.
2. Madison Fireworks Display (free)
On Thursday July 3rd, watch the sky light up with fireworks put on by Morgan County Parks & Recreation. Pre-firework activities like face painting and inflatables will be available from 6 p.m. until dark, weather permitting. Fireworks begin at dark, so grab a patch of grass, hang out or even bring a frisbee to pass the time before the show.
3. Fill Up on BBQ in Bostwick (ticketed)
To enjoy good food for a great cause on July 4th, take a short 15-minute drive to the Pecan Grove in downtown Bostwick for the annual Fourth of July BBQ. Happening from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., proceeds fund the Bostwick Fire Department and the Masonic children’s home. This is an easy way to enjoy the day for those seeking good food, good company, and a sense of community spirit.
Be sure to swing through downtown Bostwick before you leave and see if you recognize any classic movie scenes. This small Georgia town has played a starring role in several film favorites – most notably as the backdrop for the “Parker Hotel” in the 1992 hit My Cousin Vinny and the unforgettable prom finale in the 2011 remake of Footloose, filmed by the historic Cotton Gin.
4. Rutledge Summer Concert Series (free)
On Friday July 4th, head over to Rutledge Town Park for a special edition of the Rutledge Summer Concert Series. Hosting free, live music from 7-9 p.m. every Friday in summer, all you need to do is bring a picnic blanket or folding chairs and kick up your feet or dance into the night.
To celebrate the holiday, this popular concert series will be making it a special night by adding some holiday flair. Reckless Abandon – a talented six-piece band known for their faithful takes on classic rock and old country hits – will be performing live, bringing their twin lead guitars and rich harmonies to the stage. And while you’re in “small but special” Rutledge, make sure to walk around downtown to discover the beautiful murals. A local favorite commemorates military servicemembers throughout our nation’s history.
5. Celebrate Local Heroes at a Farmer’s Market (free)
On Saturday July 5th, the Farmer’s Market at Farmview Market will host a Local Heroes event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy live music, BBQ, local produce, artisan crafts and more. Local Heroes – law enforcement, firefighters, EMS and active and veteran military personnel – will be celebrated and will receive a free BBQ lunch, while supplies last. It’s the perfect place to slow down, shop local, and experience the spirit of small-town Georgia.
Farmview Market is more than just a stop for fresh produce – it’s a celebration of local food, farming, and community. What began as a small company garden has grown into a vibrant retail space that combines a grocery store, traditional butcher shop, café, and farmers market – all focused on farm-to-table offerings. Farmview is driven by a simple but powerful idea: that knowing where your food comes from and supporting local producers leads to healthier, more connected, and economically sustainable communities.
With so many events over the holiday weekend, make Madison your destination this Fourth of July!