During the week of Big BRAG, about 1000 cyclists will embark on a nearly 400-mile journey across the state of Georgia, starting in Clayton on Sunday, June 4, and finishing in downtown Augusta on Saturday, June 10.
The 2023 route takes riders through charming Georgia towns, down scenic backroads, and along picturesque lakes. Overnight stops include Clarkesville, Gainesville, Braselton, Madison, and Thomson. The 2023 ride will showcase the diverse beauty of Georgia’s lakes and provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for cyclists of all skill levels.
Along the way this BRAG, we’ll explore some of the best libations Georgia has to offer. Keep reading to get a taste for what you can expect!
Click Here to Register for Big BRAG
Clayton
Currahee Brewery kicks off Big BRAG 2023 for us with live music and local craft pours!
Take in the outdoorsy vibes, lively restaurants, and amazing vistas surrounding downtown Clayton. Make sure to get plenty of rest for Sunday’s ride!
Click Here to Register for Big BRAG
Clarkesville
After a beautiful ride along Lakes Rabun, Seed, and Burton and into the Tallulah Valley, Clarkesville hosts us for a concert and libations at an array of trendy downtown eateries and fun activity venues.
Clarkesville hosts their town Sip & Stroll on Sunday just for us! Nab your favorite beverage from any participating establishment and take it with you as you browse town shops and open air vendors. Eat dinner at one of the many restaurants in town or visit one of the food trucks parked on the Square. Lots of activities planned, from axe throwing to corn hole. The Steve Bryson Band plays from 6-8pm.
Guide to Downtown Clarkesville
Gainesville
Roll into camp after the day’s ride, grab a beverage and join us right on the Civic Center Lawn for some tunes. Later we’ll make our way downtown for good times at Standard Service or a Block Party featuring live music in the alley and roof-top brews at Tap It Growler.
Ivan Duke and Dave Anderson Band headline
Need more action? Head over to Lake Lanier for a quick paddle aboard a Gnarly Marsh SUP. Or take a stroll via the Midland Greenway to REMEDY Distillery for a sampling of their whiskey (Gainesville officials have confirmed Remedy will be open for BRAG on Tuesday).
Braselton
Our mid-week layover is smack dab in the middle of Georgia’s wine country. Hop on the Trolley and tour nearby vineyards at Chateau Elan, treat yourself to a Spa Day or stay in town and partake in the Braselton Chocolate & Wine Stroll – Just be sure to get your tickets ahead of time right here. You may also opt to hangout close to camp at Braselton Brewing Co.
Not your speed? Take a FREE tour of the facilities at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta and see what’s happening on the track. Reserve your spot at explorebraselton.ticketleap.com/raceway
Braselton has a dozen food spots to choose from, all within a short walk from BRAG headquarters and the Concert & Cookout at the Braselton Town Green.
Click Here to Register for Big BRAG
Madison
Perhaps the fanciest BRAG venue yet, Empire Mills hosts us at their restored rustic digs in Madison. After a little hospitality, head downtown to Amici Brewing and enjoy the Madison Summer Nights Concert Series in the City Park. Featuring the Squirrelheads with Shelby McLeod.
Dining options include gourmet on-site catering by Hallie Jane’s, food trucks at the concert, and a wide selection of Madison restaurants.
Click Here to Register for Big BRAG
Thomson
Home to the Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival, Thomson has got a treat for us with our very own onsite Beer Garden. We’ll enjoy the big sound and energy of Parts & Labor.
Choose from a variety of onsite and downtown dining options.
Augusta
It’s the End-of-the-Road in Augusta. After a wonderful finish on the North Augusta Greenway, along the Savannah River, enjoy a final BRAG meal and cold bevie on the Augusta Commons while jamming to BRAG favorite, Hughes Taylor Band.
After lunch, enjoy a stunning walk along the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area.
And then head over to one of Augusta’s fine breweries or distilleries:
And if you haven’t been in Augusta lately, you’re in for a delightful time! Shop in locally owned boutiques and stores along Broad Street, in the historic Summerville neighborhood and in Surrey Center. Eat at Augusta’s best locally-owned restaurants, and enjoy classic Southern fare, tapas with an international twist, gourmet burgers and farm-to-table dishes.
Augusta is a dynamic city filled with outdoor adventures, historic sites, a thriving arts community, and much more!
Big BRAG is a fully supported bike ride, with rest stops along the routes, SAG support vehicles, and overnight indoor & outdoor camping with hot showers provided for all participants. In addition to the ride itself, BRAG also offers fun pre- and post-ride activities, including live entertainment each evening.
Registration for the Big BRAG ride is now open. Interested participants can visit BRAG.org to get more information about Big BRAG or to register for the ride. Full-week, half-week, and daily registrations are available.
