Deer Festival

“Doe a deer, a female deer” is the beginning of a rousing song from “The Sound of Music” and this weekend in Monticello there will be plenty of deer for everyone as we celebrate the 49th Annual Deer Festival in the Deer Capital of Georgia.

And indeed, Jasper County is the Deer Capital as most everyone will attest since they encounter deer while driving, in their backyard or even taking a walk. Deer are everywhere.

Deer standing by the side of the road contemplating the big decision, “If that car speeding down the road is 10 feet away, am I gonna make it?” Well, it’s 50/50.

Most people around here know what a deer in the headlights really looks like. Surely the deer has some thoughts for a moment, anyway, about how we all look heading towards them. BAM! You’ll always remember that sound when the deer meets the bumper. THUD!

You know you’re in deer country when you walk into a car rental office and first thing the clerk says is, “Did you hit a deer?”

Your answer quickly clears up whether they need just a rental form or the insurance form also.

We celebrate the opening of deer season and for some it’s the BEST season of the year. Bragging rights abound as hunters weave the tall tales of the legendary deer that got away this time.

“And the white tail dove to the right as my cell phone began to ring. It was my wife asking if I could pick up something for dinner on my way home from the hunt. One day, one day, it’ll be venison.”

In the meantime, go by the venison cooking booth at the festival and have a taste, stay for the parade that starts at 2 p.m., enjoy the entertainment and vendors and food, food, food.

Y’all come to the Deer Festival this Saturday on the Square. See you there!