Parks | Maria Sims Group Blog

Wednesday, June 11, 2025 / by Maria Sims

Explore Downtown Canton: Shopping, Dining & Can’t-Miss Events

Downtown Canton, GA, is more than just a city center—it's the heart of Cherokee County, where historic Southern charm meets vibrant community living. With a walkable downtown, charming architecture, and a full calendar of events, it’s no wonder so many people are falling in love with Canton. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, Downtown Canton has something special for everyone.

Unique Shopping
Downtown Canton offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that blends vintage charm with modern style. Explore:
The Cotton Mill Exchange at The Mill on Etowah features over 150 artisans in repurposed historic mill buildings
Explore quaint shops along Main Street, including Downtown Kitchen and Downtown Fringe Salon.
· Antique Shops & Artisan Markets: Hidden treasures and handcrafted goods abound throughout downtown, perfect for home decorators and treasure hunters.

Delicious Dining
Downtown Can ...

georgia, local, canton, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, north georgia, entertainment, kids, restaurants, budget, festivals, nightlife, parks

Tuesday, June 3, 2025 / by Maria Sims

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

There’s something magical about the first Friday of every month in Downtown Canton, GA—the streets come alive with music, food, shopping, and a vibrant community spirit. First Fridays is a beloved tradition that brings locals and visitors together for an evening of fun, entertainment, and small-town charm.

What Is First Friday?

Inspired by the Explore Canton GA event page (see here), First Friday is a free, family-friendly event held on the first Friday of each month from 6 PM to 9 PM (hours may vary seasonally). Downtown Canton transforms into a lively hub with:
1. Live music from local bands and performers
2. Food trucks & restaurant specials (perfect for dinner out!)
3. Local vendors & artisans selling handmade goods
4. Kid-friendly activities like face painting and games
5. Special themes (seasonal events, holiday celebrations, and more)
Why You Should Go
Support Local B. ...

georgia, local, canton, home, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, woodstock, north georgia, entertainment, jasper, kids, blue ridge, ellijay, renovations, restaurants, fall, ball ground, buying, decor, homeownership, staging, festivals, upgrades, budget, farmers markets, home ownership, nightlife, parks, pros and cons, selling, brunch, pool, porch decor, recipes, tiny homes, waleska

Tuesday, June 3, 2025 / by Maria Sims

Beyond Cleaning: The Smart Seller's Guide to Staging That Actually Works

Selling your home can be stressful, but home staging is one of the most effective ways to attract buyers, increase offers, and speed up the sale. Whether you're a homeowner or a real estate agent, understanding the power of staging can make all the difference.
What Is Home Staging?
Home staging is the process of preparing a property for sale by enhancing its appeal to potential buyers. This involves:

Decluttering & depersonalizing (so buyers can envision themselves living there)

Furniture arrangement & decor updates (to highlight the home’s best features)

Minor repairs & cosmetic upgrades (like fresh paint or updated lighting)

Neutralizing bold colors & styles (to appeal to a broader audience)

Why Home Staging Matters
Statistics show that staged homes sell faster and for higher prices than unstaged ones. Here’s why:
Creates a Strong First Impression – Buyers decide within seconds? ...

georgia, local, canton, home, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, woodstock, north georgia, entertainment, jasper, kids, blue ridge, renovations, decor, homeownership, staging, upgrades, budget, home ownership, nightlife, parks, selling

Tuesday, September 3, 2024 / by Maria Sims

40 Years of RiverFest Arts & Crafts Festival

Photo Credit: RiverFest/Service League of Cherokee County
September 28-29, 2024
RiverFest began in 1984 and has built itself up to be one of the largest most acclaimed Arts & Crafts Festivals in Georgia. They feature over 150 arts & crafts exhibitors, 10-20 concessionaires, and a host of local entertainers. Located along the banks of the Etowah River Park in Canton, this event has grown into a fun community event for both adults and kids.
This juried show is exclusive to vendors offering handmade, one of a kind products including art, jewelry, woodcrafts, children's items, soaps, candles, unique lighting and decor, and gourmet food products.
While the event is one of the largest festivals in the state, when you walk through Etowah Park, it will give you small town fall festival vibes. Businesses and civic groups set up scarecrows throughout the park to add to the festive fall theme.
Even the kids will enjoy Riverfest with games, bouncy houses, a pettinge ...

georgia, local, canton, events, entertainment, kids, north georgia, parks, festivals, fall

Monday, May 27, 2024 / by Maria Sims

Discover the Best Dog Parks with Maria Sims Group

Are you looking for the perfect spot to let your furry friend run, play, and make new friends? At Maria Sims Group, we understand that your dog is an important part of your family. That’s why we’ve put together a list of our favorite dog parks in the area. Whether you’re new to town or a local looking for new adventures, these parks offer great amenities and a fun environment for both you and your pup.

Woofstock Park
Woofstock in Woodstock is a dog lover's dream. This spacious park features two separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, ensuring a safe play environment for dogs of all sizes. The park also offers agility equipment, allowing your dog to get some exercise while having fun. With shaded areas, benches, and water fountains, it’s a comfortable spot for both dogs and their owners. Plus, the park is well-maintained, with clean-up stations conveniently located throughout the area.

Highlights:
· &n! ...

georgia, local, canton, woodstock, summer, parks

Parks | Maria Sims Group Blog

Explore Downtown Canton: Shopping, Dining & Can’t-Miss Events

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

Beyond Cleaning: The Smart Seller's Guide to Staging That Actually Works

40 Years of RiverFest Arts & Crafts Festival

Discover the Best Dog Parks with Maria Sims Group

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Parks | Maria Sims Group Blog

Explore Downtown Canton: Shopping, Dining & Can’t-Miss Events

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

Beyond Cleaning: The Smart Seller's Guide to Staging That Actually Works

40 Years of RiverFest Arts & Crafts Festival

Discover the Best Dog Parks with Maria Sims Group

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