A Look Back: Columbus, GA's Memorable Moments of 2024
Dec 28, 2024 01:56PM ● By Desi Phillips
As 2024 draws to a close, Columbus, Georgia, reflects on a year marked by significant events and community milestones. Here are some of the most memorable moments that shaped the city this year:
1. Return of Minor League Baseball to Golden Park
After a 16-year hiatus, minor league baseball is set to make a comeback in Columbus. In January, it was announced that the Atlanta Braves' Double-A farm club, currently playing in Pearl, Mississippi, will relocate to Golden Park. The team is scheduled to begin its 20-year contract with the city in the spring of 2025, promising to revitalize the local sports scene and economy.
2. 2024 Bi-City Christmas Parade
On December 7, thousands of spectators from across the Chattahoochee Valley gathered to enjoy the annual Bi-City Christmas Parade. The festive event featured a wide variety of floats and several marching bands, creating a vibrant display of holiday spirit as the parade traveled from Phenix City, Alabama, to downtown Columbus.
3. Economic Outlook for Columbus
In January, business and civic leaders attended the University of Georgia’s Economic Outlook to hear forecasts for 2024. Economists predicted that while Georgia's economy might experience a slowdown, it would likely avoid a recession. The insights provided guidance for local businesses and policymakers in navigating the economic landscape.
4. Greater Columbus Fair
The Greater Columbus Fair returned in September, offering family-friendly entertainment, rides, food trucks, and contests. Held at the Columbus Civic Center, the fair ran from September 13th to 29th, becoming a highlight of the city's social calendar and attracting visitors from across the region.
5. "Shoe Us the Love Again!" Campaign
In November, Keep Columbus Beautiful launched its annual shoe recycling campaign, "Shoe Us the Love Again!" Building on the success of the previous year, the initiative aimed to collect over 30,000 pairs of shoes by January 25, 2025, promoting environmental sustainability and supporting those in need.
