The Blessing of the Fleet takes over downtown with shrimp boats, live music, and that unmistakable Brunswick energy, while the live music scene is absolutely loaded with 70+ shows across the Golden Isles (yes, seriously). And on top of all that, Mother’s Day brings everything from brunches to bloom bars to low-key ways to celebrate. Whether you’re going full day on the waterfront or just picking your spots, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of this one.

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If you haven’t discovered it yet, Brunswick quietly has its own vinyl haven—and now you’ve got even more time to explore it.

Lou’s Record Store will officially be open Sundays starting May 10 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving locals an extra day each week to flip through crates, hunt for hidden gems, and maybe walk out with something legendary.

And yes… those finds are very real. Just recently, I found an original pressing of Led Zeppelin III in excellent condition — you truly never know what treasures await you.

If you’re into vinyl (or just vinyl-curious), this is one of those spots worth knowing about.

PS: Lou’s also have plenty of CDs, cassettes, concert DVDs, music-related books, t-shirts and used audio gear. And all at very fair prices.

📍 3365 Cypress Mill Rd, Suite 7, Brunswick
🕰️ Now open Sundays, 11 AM – 5 PM starting May 10

Looking for work where it actually means something?

Golden Isles Veterans’ Village is hiring a Property Maintenance Manager—a hands-on role focused on repairs, upkeep, and helping maintain a safe, welcoming community for local veterans.

This isn’t just another maintenance job. It’s a chance to directly support those who’ve served while keeping a vital local resource running smoothly.

📧 Apply: [email protected]

Mark this one now—this is going to be a big night for a very real cause.

A Brantley County Family Connection benefit concert is set for May 23 in downtown Brunswick (Queen & Grant), bringing together nine bands for an afternoon and evening of live music to support families who lost everything in the recent fires.

Music runs from 3 PM to 10 PM, with a full lineup still to come—but one name already confirmed is The Maple Street Band, who very well might be the best live band going locally right now. If you’ve seen them, you already know.

Food and drinks will be handled by a strong local lineup including Messy Buns, Robbin’s Nest, Hootenanny’s BBQ, and Tipsy McSway—so expect a full downtown takeover vibe.

This is exactly the kind of event our community shows up for. More details and flyers are on the way, but for now—get it on your calendar.

BRUNSWICK ART LOOP
🕰️ 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
🎯 Downtown Brunswick
One of the best recurring downtown events—galleries, shops, and creative spaces all open at once.

GARDEN CHAOS – FIRST THURSDAY ART
🕰️ 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
🎯 Brown Butter Shoppe, Brunswick
A vibrant exhibit as part of the Art Loop.

YAPPY HOUR
🕰️ 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
🎯 Palm Coast Coffee, SSI
Dogs, drinks, and a great cause. $10 donation supports the Humane Society.

ANNUAL ART TEACHERS’ EXHIBIT (Opening)
🕰️ 5:00 PM
🎯 Ritz Theatre / Wilcox Gallery, Brunswick
Local art teachers showcase their work—opens during Art Loop.

UNEXPECTED BEAUTY (Opening Reception)
🕰️ 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
🎯 Glynn Visual Arts, SSI
A creative exhibit featuring repurposed materials and bold design.

Wine Whisperer: Fortune Readings with Ed Hose
🕰️ 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
🎯 Golden Isles Olive Oil, SSI
A little wine, a little mystery, and a lot of personality. Ed Hose reads fortunes through spilled wine (yes, really), making this one of the more unique nights out this week. Expect a relaxed crowd, good conversation, and a fun, slightly theatrical vibe.
Call 912-602-9736

PLANT BINGO & EXCHANGE
🕰️ 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
🎯 Makers BWK, Brunswick
Play bingo, win plants, then trade with other plant lovers.
More info: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/plant-bingo-exchange-tickets-1986574546947

36th Annual CADDA Golf Tournament
🕰️ 8:00 AM
🎯 Sapelo Hammock Golf Club, Townsend
A full day on the green that doubles as one of the more important behind-the-scenes community events. Business leaders, local organizations, and partners come together for golf, networking, and supporting regional development.

More info: https://caddagolf.rsvpify.com/

Archaeology & Tea with the Guale Native Americans
🕰️ 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
🎯 Fort King George, Darien
History, nature, and a little tea all rolled into one. This guided walk explores how the Guale people used native plants for herbal teas, with samples included. Easy pace, about a mile total, and a genuinely different kind of outing.

Call 912-437-4770

Mother’s Day Tea (Friday Seating)
🕰️ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
🎯 Eighty Ocean Kitchen & Bar, Jekyll
An elegant early Mother’s Day option featuring tea sandwiches, scones, and desserts in a polished coastal setting. A great choice if you want to celebrate ahead of the Sunday rush.

Cruisin’ After 5
🕰️ 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🎯 Downtown St. Marys
Classic cars line the streets while food trucks fire up and live music fills the air. It’s less about a strict plan and more about wandering, checking out rides, and enjoying one of those perfect coastal evenings.

More info: www.stmarysmainstreet.com/cruisin-after-five

Pajamas & Robes Party (Ladies Night)
🕰️ 6:00 PM
🎯 Driftwood Wine & Cocktails, Brunswick
This one’s already building momentum. Pajamas, robes, cocktails, music, and prizes—it’s a “grab your crew and go” kind of night. Expect a lively crowd and a fun, anything-goes atmosphere.

Singles Mixer (21+)
🕰️ 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🎯 Axes & 8ights Sports Bar, Kingsland
A casual mixer designed to keep things easy and approachable. No pressure—just drinks, conversation, and a chance to meet new people. A solid way to shake up your Friday night.

More info: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/singles-mixer-21-tickets-1986166715111

Spring Migration Field Trip
🕰️ 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
🎯 Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge, Townsend
Peak migration season makes this one of the best mornings of the year for birdwatching. Led by a Georgia DNR biologist, this guided walk is peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly rewarding.

Brunswick Harbor Market
🕰️ 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
🎯 Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Brunswick
A Saturday staple downtown. Fresh produce, handmade goods, food vendors, and that laid-back waterfront energy. Easy to pair with coffee and a slow start to the day.

Bike Tree Tour
🕰️ 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🎯 Hanover Square, Brunswick
A guided ride through Brunswick’s historic neighborhoods highlighting the city’s tree canopy. Local experts and Master Gardeners share insights along the way, with a small vendor fair waiting at the finish.

Summer Waves Opening Day + New Attraction
🕰️ 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎯 Summer Waves Water Park, Jekyll
Summer officially starts here. The park reopens with all your favorite slides plus the new Rattlesnake Racer—a multi-lane racing slide built for side-by-side competition and bragging rights.

More info: https://summerwaves.com

88th Annual Brunswick Blessing of the Fleet
🕰️ 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🎯 Mary Ross Waterfront Park, Brunswick
The signature event of the weekend. Food vendors, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and the iconic shrimp boat parade celebrating Brunswick’s coastal heritage. If you pick one event this weekend, this is the one.

More info: www.brunswickblessing.com

Tye Dye Shirt Class
🕰️ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🎯 840 East King Ave, Kingsland
A hands-on, all-ages class where you’ll create your own custom tie-dye shirt. Everything is provided—you just show up ready to get a little messy.

Call 912-510-9764

Mother’s Day Tea (Saturday Seating)
🕰️ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
🎯 Eighty Ocean Kitchen & Bar, Jekyll
Another seating for this popular event. Same elegant setup, same polished experience—perfect if Friday fills up or you’re celebrating over the weekend.

Before I Go Book Signing & Sound Healing
🕰️ 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
🎯 Advanced Chiropractic & Wellness Center, Brunswick
A blend of creative and calming energy. Meet the author and stay for a guided sound healing session designed to help you unwind.

Call 912-424-6018

May 9 Bingo
🕰️ Doors 4:30 PM | Games 6:30 PM
🎯 American Legion Post 9, Brunswick
Big jackpots, a full kitchen, and a lively crowd. It’s loud, social, and one of those local traditions that still delivers.

Adults Night Out (Ages 30–50)
🕰️ 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
🎯 First Presbyterian Church, Brunswick
Free dinner, games, prizes—and childcare included. A genuinely easy way to get out for the night without the usual planning stress.

Marine Biology Summer Camp (Info Event)
🕰️ 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🎯 Jekyll
A preview of a hands-on summer camp where kids dive into real marine science—coral reefs, sharks, oyster restoration, and more. Interactive, educational, and one of the more unique summer options around.

Mother’s Day Bloom Bar
🕰️ 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
🎯 1614 Newcastle St, Brunswick
Build your own bouquet or create one with Mom. Simple, fun, and a great stop before brunch.

Mother’s Day Brunch (Jekyll Island Club Resort)
🕰️ 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
🎯 Jekyll Island Club Resort
The upscale option. A full brunch spread in one of the most iconic dining rooms on the coast—this one’s always in demand.

Mother’s Day Brunch (A Moveable Feast)
🕰️ 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
🎯 1178 Chapel Crossing Rd, Brunswick
A more relaxed, local-feel brunch with creative dishes, mimosas, and a cozy atmosphere.

Call 912-289-9464

Mother’s Day Wreath Making
🕰️ 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
🎯 Fort King George Historic Site, Darien
A thoughtful, hands-on way to spend time with Mom and wrap up the weekend on a relaxed note.

Leader of the Pack: The Musical
🕰️ Showtimes vary (May 8–10 & May 15–17)
🎯 The Island Players, SSI
A Broadway-style production telling the story of Ellie Greenwich, packed with recognizable hits and live band energy.

More info: www.theislandplayers.com

This week’s Live Music Roundup is sponsored by Dreamweavers DJ — a father-and-son DJ team helping couples celebrate across Brunswick, SSI, Jekyll, Savannah, and Jacksonville.
https://dreamweaversdj.com

🎸 Tony Adams @ Bennie’s Red Barn/Tree Bar, SSI – 7pm
🎤 Austin Lane @ El Dorado, Jesup – 7–10pm
🎸 Levi Moore @ Fish Tales Pub & Grill, Brunswick – 6–9pm
🎤 Songbird Open Mic Night @ Hootenanny’s in the Yard, Brunswick – 6–8pm
🎸 Josh Kirkland Band @ Mullet Bay, SSI – 8–11pm
🎷 Hot Banana Coffee @ Reid’s Apothecary/The Study, Brunswick – 9pm
🎸 Josh Bruen @ Strand Bistro/Chophouse, Jesup – 6:30–9:30pm
🎸 Crawford & Jim @ Tipsy McSway’s, Brunswick – 6–9pm
🎸 Last Call @ Tortuga Jack’s, Jekyll – 5–8pm
🎤 Owen Plant @ Village Creek Landing, SSI – 5:30–8:30pm
🎸 Cliff Bragdon @ Village Inn & Pub, SSI – 8–11pm
🎸 WharfRatz @ Wee Pub Beach, Jekyll – 7–10pm
🎸 Rider @ The Wharf, Jekyll – 6–9pm

🎸 Blossomin’ Bone @ Bar at Mallery, SSI – 7–10pm
🎸 Rider @ Bennie’s Red Barn/Tree Bar, SSI – 9pm
🎤 Live Music @ Brogen’s South, SSI – 7–10pm
🎤 Live Music @ Bubba’s at Mary Ross Park, Brunswick – 6–9pm
🎤 Live Music @ Captain Stan’s Smokehouse, Woodbine – 6:30pm
🎤 Emma Mac @ Eighty Ocean Kitchen & Bar, Jekyll – 6–9pm
🎸 Uncle Dave Griffin @ Ember/Mas Lounge, SSI – 7–10pm
🎸 Peyton Chambless & The Backshift @ Fish Tales Pub & Grill, Brunswick – 7–10pm
🎤 Jamie Walker @ Founders Social, Jekyll – 5–8pm
🎹 Jerry Gowen @ Georgia Sea Grill, SSI – 6:30–9:30pm
🎸 Backbeat Boulevard @ Gnat’s Landing, SSI – 7–10pm
🎸 South of Savannah @ The Hangout Bar & Grill, Brunswick – 7–10pm
🎸 Roy Gentry @ The Local, Nahunta – 7–10pm
🎸 Maple Street Band @ Marsh Pirate, Darien – 7pm
🎸 3 Day Weekend @ Mullet Bay, SSI – 8–11pm
🎸 Pine Box Dwellers @ Murphy’s Tavern, SSI – 10pm
🎸 Brian Ashley Jones & Melanie Jean @ Rafters, SSI – 7–10pm
🎷 Hot Banana Coffee @ Reid’s Apothecary/The Study, Brunswick – 9pm
🎸 Rory ETC @ Sago at Sea Palms Resort, SSI – 6–9pm
🎸 Bluff 5 Band @ Strand Bistro/Chophouse, Jesup – 7:30pm
🎸 Opal Moon @ Three Oaks Steak & Seafood, Brunswick – 6–9pm
🎸 Gravity Bomb @ Tipsy McSway’s, Brunswick – 7–10pm
🎸 TacoCaT @ Tortuga Jack’s, Jekyll – 6–9pm
🎸 Your Mom’s Favorite Band @ Toucan’s Ale House, Brunswick – 7–10pm
🎸 Jenn Burns Trio @ Tribuzio’s Grille, Jekyll – 5:30–8:30pm
🎸 Grumpy Monkey @ Village Inn & Pub, SSI – 8–11pm
🎸 Gabe Spell @ The Wharf, Jekyll – 6–9pm
🎻 Acoustic Bluegrass/Gospel Jam @ Woodbine Opry, Woodbine – 7pm

🎤 Live Music @ King City Kitchen, SSI – 11am–3pm
🎸 Hollering’ Bob @ Hootenanny’s BBQ, Brunswick – 12–3pm
🎸 Pine Box Dwellers @ Founders Social, Jekyll – 1–4pm
🎸 Side Piece @ Tortuga Jack’s, Jekyll – 1–4pm
🎸 Michale Hannemann & Mike Alongi @ Southern Soul BBQ, SSI – 4–7pm
🎸 Cliff Bragdon @ Heritage Oaks Golf Club, Brunswick – 5–8pm
🎸 Blossomin’ Bone @ Hootenanny’s BBQ, Brunswick – 5–8pm
🎸 Altamaha Sound @ Tribuzio’s Grille, Jekyll – 5:30–8:30pm
🎸 Mark Dennison @ Shore Restaurant Courtyard, Jekyll – 6–9pm
🎸 Conni Laine @ Bubba’s at Mary Ross Park, Brunswick – 6–9pm
🎸 Backbeat Boulevard @ The Wharf, Jekyll – 6–9pm
🎸 Peyton Chambliss & The Backshift @ Tipsy McSway’s, Brunswick – 6–9pm
🎸 Bluff 5 Band @ Captain Stan’s Smokehouse, Woodbine – 6:30pm
🎸 Roy Gentry @ Gnat’s Landing, SSI – 7–10pm
🎸 3 Day Weekend @ The Hangout Bar & Grill, Brunswick – 7–10pm
🎸 Squirt Gun @ Three Oaks Steak & Seafood, Brunswick – 7–10pm
🎸 Levi Moore @ Toucan’s Ale House, Brunswick – 7–10pm
🎤 SaltWater Gypseas @ Darien Waterfront Park, Darien – 7–9pm
🎸 Lanie Mae @ Rafters, SSI – 7–10pm
🎤 Electric Dance Band Show @ Woodbine Opry, Woodbine – 7pm
🎸 Last Call @ Mullet Bay, SSI – 8–11pm
🎸 Brody Williams & Emma Mac @ Village Inn & Pub, SSI – 8–11pm
🎤 Live Music @ Brogen’s South, SSI – 7–10pm
🎤 Live Music @ Bar at Mallery, SSI – 8–11pm
🎸 Dakota Duo @ Bennie’s Red Barn/Tree Bar, SSI – 9pm
🎸 Defunk @ Reid’s Apothecary/The Study, Brunswick – 9pm

🎤 Live Music @ Bubba Garcia’s, SSI – 12–3pm
🎤 Live Music @ Coastal Kitchen, SSI – 12–3pm
🎤 Live Music @ Bubba’s at Mary Ross Park, Brunswick – 12–3pm
🎸 Hannemann Band @ Tortuga Jack’s, Jekyll – 1–4pm
🎤 Emma Mac @ Founders Social, Jekyll – 1–4pm
🎸 Defunk @ Cactus Mexican Restaurant, Brunswick – 3–7pm
🎸 Tim Akins @ Uptown Tap & Cigar, SSI – 3–6pm
🎤 Live Music @ Captain Stan’s Smokehouse, Woodbine – 3–6pm
🎤 Live Music @ Beachcomber BBQ, SSI – 5–8pm
🎸 CJ @ The Hangout Bar & Grill, Brunswick – 5–8pm
🎤 Live Music @ JI Beach House, Jekyll – 5–8pm
🎤 Live Music @ Mullet Bay, SSI – 5–8pm
🎸 Squirt Gun @ Gnat’s Landing, SSI – 6–9pm
🎸 Tony Adams @ Village Inn & Pub, SSI – 7–10pm
🎹 Mike McDaniel @ Ocean Lodge, SSI – 11am–2pm

The Golden Isles Lantern continues to grow, and we’re opening a few spots for local sponsors who want to reach an engaged audience across Brunswick, St. Simons, Jekyll, and the surrounding area.

If you run a local business and would like to get in front of Lantern readers each week, I’d love to talk. Sponsorships help keep the newsletter free while supporting more local coverage, events, and community conversations.

Interested?
Email: [email protected]

Did we miss something? Have an event to share? Interested in advertising with us? Drop us a line at [email protected]!