- The Golden Isles Lantern
- Posts
- 🧡 Run for Phillip, Rock with Freddie, Stroll First Friday
🧡 Run for Phillip, Rock with Freddie, Stroll First Friday
Your Guide to the Golden Isles for Sept 4 - 7
This weekend, Brunswick brings the heart, the heat, and the high notes. We’re lacing up to support hometown hero Phillip Bulatao in his uphill health battle, rocking out to Queen anthems at the Ritz, and kicking things off with First Friday downtown. Whether you're racing, singing, shopping, or just soaking in the vibe, this is one of those weekends that reminds you why we love this little corner of the coast.

Planning a wedding or special event in the Golden Isles? Dreamweavers DJ brings the party to life with premium sound, stunning lighting, and an unforgettable vibe—without the upsell. Serving Brunswick, St. Simons, Jekyll, Savannah & beyond.
More Information: dreamweaversdj.com

Hometown Headlines 🏝️
🏃♂️ Philip’s 5K to the Finish: Community Rallies for Local Running Star
This Saturday at 8 AM, Brunswick will lace up and show out for one of its own. Philip’s 5K to the Finish kicks off at 101 Mansfield Street, and it’s more than just a race — it’s a show of support for a beloved hometown athlete facing the biggest uphill battle of his life.
Philip Bulatao, a Glynn Academy graduate and former three-sport standout, was known for pushing limits on the cross country course — breaking the school’s 5K record four times his senior year and placing 10th in the state meet. He earned a full roster of accolades at Georgia College and State University, where he was a team captain, an All-PBC runner, and a Silver Scholar majoring in mathematics.
Philip had just wrapped his junior season and was preparing to walk on to the University of Georgia’s cross country team when he was unexpectedly diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that strikes without warning. The condition, which causes the immune system to attack the body’s nerves, has left him hospitalized and bed-ridden.

This weekend’s 5K is a chance to support his recovery and raise awareness for rare diseases. All proceeds go directly to Philip’s care — funding the long journey ahead through treatment and rehabilitation.
Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, your presence matters. Let’s rally behind Philip the way he inspired us — with heart, grit, and a finish-line mindset.
🗓️ Saturday, 8 AM
📍 101 Mansfield St, Brunswick, GA
🔗Register or donate: https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/Brunswick/PhilipS5KToTheFinish
🧡 GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/c7qyt-philips-recovery-fund

What’s Happening This Weekend
Thursday, September 4
🖼️ Brunswick Art Loop
🕰️ 5 PM – 7 PM
🎯 Downtown Brunswick
Art, shops, and sips on a First Thursday evening stroll. Stop by SoGlo, Ritz Theatre, the library and more—see what the creative crowd has been up to while you were on the beach.
👞 Intro to Carolina Shag @ Ziggy’s
🕰️ 6 PM – 7:30 PM
🎯 Ziggy’s, 210 Retreat Village, SSI
One night only! Learn the iconic Carolina Shag with the Golden Isles Shag Club. No partner required, just bring $10, your smoothest shoes, and a willingness to laugh when you step on someone’s toes.
🐍 Venomous Snakes of Georgia
🕰️ 6 PM – 7 PM
🎯 UGA Marine Extension, Brunswick
Only 6 of Georgia’s 40+ snakes are venomous—but can you tell which ones? Herpetologist Kimberly Andrews is here to help, with live snake demos and myth-busting that might just save your next hike.
🧠 Back to the Trivia – 80’s Trivia Night
🕰️ 6 PM
🎯 Silver Bluff Brewing Company, Brunswick
Neon spandex, synth-heavy soundtracks, and some serious retro recall — it's trivia night in the Back to the Future lane. Brush up on your Breakfast Club quotes and moonwalk your way to victory. Free to play. Dressing up encouraged!
🎓 2025 Chautauqua Lecture: Michel Paradis on Eisenhower
🕰️ 6 PM
🎯 St. Simons Presbyterian Church
Historian and author Michel Paradis explores the coastal ties of President Dwight D. Eisenhower in this lecture hosted by the Coastal Georgia Historical Society. Expect presidential insight and fascinating local connections.
📖 Evening with Joshua Sharpe & Margaret Coker
🕰️ 7:15 PM
🎯 The Ritz Theatre, Brunswick
A true crime tale that’s actually true. Sharpe and Coker discuss The Man No One Believed, a gripping story of justice, journalism, and Georgia murders. Bonus: the G.J. Ford Bookshop will be there slinging copies.
Friday, September 5
📚 Author Talk & Book Signing – Joshua Sharpe
🕰️ 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
🎯 St. Simons Casino Theater
Award-winning journalist Joshua Sharpe discusses his gripping true crime book The Man No One Believed: The Untold Story of the Georgia Church Murders. A deep dive into justice, wrongful conviction, and the power of investigative reporting. Free for members; $10 for non-members.
🛍️ First Friday in Historic Downtown Brunswick
🕰️ 5 PM – 9 PM
🎯 Downtown Brunswick
Brunswick closes the streets and opens the fun. Live music, pop-ups, art, a classic car show, and extended hours from local shops. It’s your monthly excuse to eat ice cream, buy earrings, and say hi to your neighbors.
🍷 Fizz & Flow Friday: Pop-Up Wine Bar
🕰️ 5 PM – 8 PM
🎯 1614 Newcastle St., Brunswick
Sparkling pours and easy conversations flow at this breezy wine pop-up hosted by Social Butterfly. Sip something seasonal and toast the changing tides.
🎣 First Friday Women on the Fly Meet-Up
🕰️ 5:30 PM – 7 PM
🎯 Silver Bluff Beer Garden
A casual hangout for local lady anglers — reconnect, trade fishing tales, and plan the next fly-fishing adventure. All skill levels welcome.
💃 Fun Friday Belly Dance with Elena
🕰️ 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM
🎯 Golden Isles Belly Dance, 1312 Newcastle St., Brunswick
Shake off the week with hip circles and shimmies. This all-levels class is beginner-friendly and full of good vibes. If you’ve never tried belly dancing, this is your glitter-dusted sign to give it a go.
Saturday, September 6
🥓 Veteran’s Breakfast
🕰️ 7:30 AM – 10 AM
🎯 American Legion Post 9, Brunswick
Free breakfast for veterans, $10 for adults, $5 for kids — and all the gratitude you can carry. Bring a veteran or share a story with one. Good food, great company, and strong community spirit.
🏃 Philip’s 5K to the Finish
🕰️ 8 AM
🎯 101 Mansfield St., Brunswick
Support local cross country star Philip Bulatao in his recovery from Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Run, walk, or cheer — all proceeds go to Philip’s care. This is more than a race, it’s a rally for one of our own.
More info: https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/Brunswick/PhilipS5KToTheFinish
🛍️ Golden Isles Church of God Yard Sale
🕰️ 8 AM – 1 PM
🎯 200 Boswell Ln., Brunswick
Shop for a cause! Support the church’s Women’s Missions Ministry while treasure-hunting through yard sale finds. Outdoors unless it rains — then it’s gym time.
🛍️ Brunswick Harbor Market
🕰️ 8 AM – 2 PM
🎯 Mary Ross Waterfront Park
Open-air market magic returns with vendors offering everything from local honey to hand-carved crafts. One of the biggest markets of the month — don’t forget your tote bags.
🎨 Art Appreciation Day at GVA
🕰️ 10 AM – 1 PM
🎯 106 Island Drive, St. Simons Island
Art swaps, tag sales, kids' crafts, and a whole lot of creativity under one roof. Score some new art supplies or just come to soak in the color and community.
🎶 Family Music Bingo & Brunch
🕰️ 10 AM – 12 PM
🎯 Silver Bluff Brewing Company, Brunswick
Face paint, animal balloons, tasty food, and a musical twist on bingo. This fundraiser for St. Mark’s Day School is perfect for the whole family.
🌿 Meet Me in the Garden
🕰️ 10 AM – 12 PM
🎯 325 Old Jesup Rd., Brunswick
Join the Master Gardeners for hands-on garden fun. Learn planting techniques, swap ideas, and tour the demo beds. Whether your thumb is green or barely beige, you’ll leave inspired.
📖 Reading for a Bright Future
🕰️ 10:30 AM
🎯 Brunswick-Glynn County Library
Local authors, powerful stories, and a mission to spark imagination in young readers. Families are encouraged to attend this joyful and inclusive celebration of literacy and diverse voices.
🛍️ Sip & Shop | St. Simons Island
🕰️ 1 PM – 6 PM
🎯 1215 Beachview Dr., St. Simons Island
Pop-up boutique bliss. Refreshments, jewelry, giveaways, and new arrivals await. A good excuse to shop local and sip something sparkly while you do it.
🎹 Beethoven in Brunswick
🕰️ 3:30 PM
🎯 SoGlo Gallery, 1413 Newcastle St., Brunswick
An afternoon of classical piano performed by Dr. Francisco Silva. Sit back, sip a beverage, and let Beethoven lift your Saturday. Doors at 3, performance at 3:30.
🎸 Queen Tribute: Now I'm Here ft. Josh Henderson
🕰️ 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
🎯 The Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St, Brunswick, GA 31520
🎟️ Tickets available on Eventbrite or by calling (978) 397-7320
Calling all Freddie fans and Bohemian Rhapsody belters—this is the one to circle in red. “Now I’m Here” is a dazzling Queen tribute straight from the UK, featuring powerhouse frontman Josh Henderson and a rocking band led by Jeff Allyn Szwast, John Pachnos, and Scott Bachman.
Expect stadium-sized vocals, theatrical flair, and all the hits—from Somebody to Love to Don't Stop Me Now. Come early to soak up the glamor of the Ritz and stay late to sing your heart out.
🍖 BINGO NITE at Mack's Bar-Be-Que
🕰️ 7 PM – 9 PM
🎯 6900 New Jesup Hwy, Brunswick
Prizes, pulled pork, and plenty of chances to win. Eight rounds of bingo and all the Southern charm you can handle. Pro tip: show up hungry.
Sunday, September 7
🐾 Nail Clipping Clinic
🕰️ 12 PM – 3 PM
🎯 1000 Vintage Brunswick Cir., Brunswick
Pamper your pup! Golden Isles Pet Resort will be on site at Vintage Brunswick Apartments offering $18 nail trims. Cash, Venmo, and Zelle accepted. Paws up!
🖼️ September Gallery Opening Reception
🕰️ 1 PM – 3 PM
🎯 Goodyear Cottage, Historic District, Jekyll Island
A feast for the eyes and the snack table. The Jekyll Island Arts Association invites you to the opening reception for their September gallery show featuring striking coastal imagery from the Coastal Photographers Guild and beautiful ceramic works by Jonathan Currier, a local artist based on St. Simons.
Mingle with the makers, browse the latest pieces, and enjoy complimentary food and beverages in the charming setting of historic Goodyear Cottage. Free and open to all — whether you're an art collector or just looking for a peaceful Sunday stroll with a side of creativity.
🎸 Queen Tribute: Now I'm Here ft. Josh Henderson (Encore Matinée)
🕰️ 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
🎯 The Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle St, Brunswick, GA 31520
🎟️ Tickets available on Eventbrite or by calling (978) 397-7320
If you missed Saturday night—or just need one more bite of Queen glory—catch the encore matinee of “Now I’m Here” at The Ritz. Frontman Josh Henderson returns with all the charisma and power of Freddie Mercury, backed by a top-notch band and enough guitar solos to shake the chandeliers.
A perfect Sunday afternoon show for music lovers of all ages—plus, you’ll beat the dinner rush. Long live Queen 👑⚡
🌕 Moon Rise at ECHO
🕰️ 5 PM – 9 PM
🎯 King & Prince Resort, St. Simons Island
A beachfront feast paired with the full moon’s glow. Sip craft cocktails, savor coastal cuisine, and soak in the ocean views as the moon rises over the Atlantic.
⛳ Drive for Life Kickoff Party
🕰️ 5 PM – 8 PM
🎯 Retreat at Sea Island Golf Club
Support First Tee Golden Isles with an evening of food, friends, and fundraising. The countdown to the Drive for Life Tournament begins here — silent auction included for those feeling lucky.

🎵 Thursday, September 4
🎷 Jerry Gowen @ Georgia Sea Grill (SSI) – 6:30–9:30 PM
🎤 Drew & Angie Holloway @ The Hangout Bar & Grill (Bwk) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Joey Thigpen @ Mexicali Fresh (SSI) – 6–9 PM
🎹 Roy Gentry @ Rooftop at Ocean Lodge (SSI) – 6–9 PM
🎶 Crawford & Jim @ The Tipsy Zone at Tipsy McSway’s (Bwk) – 6–9 PM
🎤 Song Bird Open Mic @ Hootenanny's BBQ (Bwk) – 6–8 PM
🎸 Taylor Martin, Dillon Campbell & Josh Kirkland Trio @ Rafters (SSI) – 8 PM–12 AM
🎸 Frost Bros Band @ Village Inn & Pub (SSI) – 8–11 PM
🎸 Last Call @ Mullet Bay (SSI) – 8–11 PM
🎸 Braedon Harris @ El Dorado (Jesup) – 7–10 PM
🎸 Uncle Dave Griffin @ Tigre Island Room (Fernandina) – 7–10 PM
🎸 WharfRatz @ Wee Pub Beach (JI) – 7–10 PM
🎸 The Vibe @ The Wharf (JI) – 6–9 PM
☕ Hot Banana Coffee @ Reid’s Apothecary/The Study (Bwk – password req.) – 9 PM
🎵 Friday, September 5
🎹 Jerry Gowen @ Georgia Sea Grill (SSI) – 6:30–9:30 PM
🎤 Cliff Bragdon @ Mellow Mushroom (SSI) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Cody Marlowe @ V Pizza (SSI) – 6–9 PM
🎤 Josh Nunn @ Eighty Ocean Kitchen & Bar (JI) – 6–9 PM
🎤 Owen Plant @ Shore @ Residence Inn (JI) – 6–9 PM
🎤 Michaele Hannemann @ Rooftop at Ocean Lodge (SSI) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Casey Robinson @ Toucans Ale House (Bwk) – 7–10 PM
🎸 Braedon Harris @ Beachcomber BBQ (SSI) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Josh Kirkland Trio @ Village Inn & Pub (SSI) – 8–11 PM
🎸 SaltWater Gypseas @ Mullet Bay (SSI) – 8–11 PM
🎸 Flood Brothers @ Brogen’s South (SSI) – 7–10 PM
🎸 Common Ground @ Gnat’s Landing (SSI) – 7–10 PM
🎸 CP & The Shockers @ The Tipsy Zone at Tipsy McSway’s (Bwk) – 7–10 PM
🎸 Cody Marlowe Band @ Rafters (SSI) – 11 PM–2 AM
🎸 Ryan Wilson @ Rafters (SSI) – 7–10 PM
🎸 Taylor Martin, Josh Kirkland & Dyan Campbell @ Murphy’s Tavern (SSI) – 11 PM
🎸 Lauren Marie @ Founder’s Social (JI) – 5–8 PM
🎸 TacoCaT Trio @ Captain Stan’s (Woodbine) – 6:30 PM
🎸 Uncle Dave Griffin @ Fish Dock Bar & Grill (Townsend) – 7–10 PM
🎸 Rider @ Tigre Island Room (Fernandina) – 8–11 PM
🎸 Dakota Duo @ Tribuzio’s Grille (JI) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Gabe Spell @ The Wharf (JI) – 6–9 PM
🎸 South of Athens @ River’s Edge Bar & Grill (Darien) – 7–10 PM
🎸 The Banana Boys @ Reid’s Apothecary/The Study (Bwk – password req.) – 9 PM
🎷 Fire Lounge w/ Rastar @ Wine Alley/Wine Body & Soul (SSI) – 7–10 PM
🎤 Queen Tribute – “Now I’m Here” ft. Josh Henderson @ Victory North (Sav) – 7–9:30 PM
🎻 Acoustic Bluegrass/Gospel Jam @ Woodbine Opry – 7 PM (Dining Room 5 PM)
🎸 Last Call @ Bubba's at Mary Ross Park (Bwk) – 7–10 PM
🎵 Saturday, September 6
🎷 Hollerin’ Bob @ Hootenanny’s BBQ (Bwk) – 12–3 PM
🎷 Cody Marlowe @ King City Kitchen (SSI) – 12–4 PM
🎸 Cliff Bragdon @ Founder’s Social (JI) – 1–4 PM
🎸 Touch of Grey @ Tortuga Jack’s (JI) – 1–4 PM
🎷 Jerry Gowen @ Georgia Sea Grill (SSI) – 6:30–9:30 PM
🎸 Braedon Harris @ The Hangout Bar & Grill (Bwk) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Levi Moore @ Reid’s Apothecary/The Study (Bwk – password req.) – 9 PM
🎸 Cody Marlowe @ Bar at Mallery (SSI) – 8–11 PM
🎸 Lauren Marie @ Village Inn & Pub (SSI) – 8–11 PM
🎸 Young Americans @ Mullet Bay (SSI) – 8–11 PM
🎸 Roy Gentry & Hired Guns @ Boondox Tavern (Bwk) – 8–11 PM
🎸 Hatton Still (acoustic) @ Strand Bistro/Chophouse (Jesup) – 8–11 PM
🎸 Leo Dean @ Tribuzio’s Grille (JI) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Michael McDaniel @ Toucans Ale House (Bwk) – 7–10 PM
🎸 South of Athens @ Fish Tales Pub & Grill (Bwk) – 7–10 PM
🎸 Hot Banana Coffee @ Brogen’s South (SSI) – 7–10 PM
🎸 The Vault @ V Pizza (SSI) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Backbeat Boulevard @ The Wharf (JI) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Live Music @ Wine Alley/Wine Body & Soul (SSI) – 7–10 PM
🎸 Tim Akins @ Union Station Brewing (Jesup) – 7–10 PM
🎸 King Cheese @ Captain Stan’s (Woodbine) – 6:30 PM
🎸 Rider Trio @ Heritage Oaks Golf Club (Bwk) – 5–8 PM
🎸 Vocal Vibes @ The Studio (Darien) – 7–9 PM
🎷 Jenn Burns @ Emmeline Sunset Cruise (SSI) – 6:30–8:30 PM
🎤 Beethoven Sonatas ft. Dr. Francisco Silva @ Brunswick Actors Theatre – Doors 3 PM / Show 3:30 PM
🎤 Queen Tribute – “Now I’m Here” ft. Josh Henderson @ The Ritz Theatre (Bwk) – 7–9:30 PM
🎸 Dexter Jones @ 1509 Brunswick – 7–10 PM
🎵 Sunday, September 7
🎸 Tim Akins @ Barrier Island Brewing (SSI) – 12–3 PM
🎸 Ashton Rowland @ Bubba’s at Mary Ross Park (Bwk) – 12–3 PM
🎸 Roy Gentry @ Bubba Garcia’s (SSI) – 12–3 PM
🎸 Yung Clint @ Driftwood Wine & Cocktails (Bwk) – 12–3 PM
🎸 Brody Williams & Emma Mac @ V Pizza (SSI) – 12–3 PM
🎸 Micah Bonn @ The Wharf (JI) – 12–3 PM
🎸 Rider @ Tortuga Jack’s (JI) – 1–4 PM
🎸 Paul Ivey @ Captain Stan’s (Woodbine) – 3 PM
🎸 Chad Evors @ Mullet Bay (SSI) – 4–7 PM
🎸 Braxton Sykes @ Beachcomber BBQ (SSI) – 5–8 PM
🎸 Troubadour South (solo) @ The Hangout Bar & Grill (Bwk) – 5–8 PM
🎸 Backbeat Boulevard @ Gnat’s Landing (SSI) – 6–9 PM
🎸 Cole Turner @ Village Inn & Pub (SSI) – 7–10 PM
🎤 Queen Tribute – “Now I’m Here” ft. Josh Henderson @ The Ritz Theatre (Bwk) – 3–5:30 PM

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