Events & Activities
Weekly and Seasonal Events
Get ready for unforgettable experiences that bring our community together!
From heartwarming holiday traditions to exciting summer adventures, there’s something special happening every season at Ellijay First UMC.
Upcoming Highlights
Next Big Event: Redbird Mission Trip
September 21st – 26th, 2025
Our team of 10 will be heading to Redbird, Kentucky to renovate a home in an isolated, rural distressed area that is in critical need of support. Chronic poverty, lack of jobs, poor housing, and rugged mountainous terrain provide obstacles to a fuller life for the residents of the area. Red Bird Mission and Clinic strives to meet those needs through education, health, housing improvement, outreach, and economic opportunity. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates on our experience next week!
Winter Celebrations
Advent Season – December
Join us for a month of wonder and preparation as we celebrate the season of hope!
Advent Workshop
- When: November 30th, 2025 3:00 – 5:00 pm
- What: Create beautiful Advent wreaths, ornaments, and crafts for your family
- Who: All ages welcome! Perfect for grandparents and grandkids.
- Cost: $10 per family (materials included)
- Hot cocoa and cookies provided!
Christmas Cantata
- When: December 21st at 10:00am
- What: A beautiful and welcoming service for community and family members to attend and experience Advent through music.
Live Nativity Experience
- When: December 21st-23rd 6:00-8:00 pm
- What: Step back in time to Bethlehem! Walk through our interactive nativity scene with live animals, authentic costumes, and the Christmas Story brought to life.
- Special features: Real sheep, donkeys, and goas – Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus + Wise men and shepherds + Hot cider and cookies at the end
- Perfect for: Families with kids of all ages – even toddlers love the animals!
- Free admission but donations welcome for our local missions
- Volunteer opportunities: We need angels, shepherds, and wise men! (costumes provided)
- Weather note: Dress warmly – it’s outdoors, but so worth it!
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service:
- When: December 24th at 5:30pm
- What: Our most beloved service of the year – beautiful music, candlelight and the Christmas story
- Special: Children’s Christmas message at 4:30 pm
- Why families love it: “Magical atmosphere that makes Christmas real for our kids” – The Johnson Family
Easter Celebrations
Holy Week – April 5th
Easter Cantata:
- When: March 29th at 10:00am
- What: A beautiful and welcoming service for community and family members to enjoy Easter through music.
- Epic Easter Egg Hunt: Immediately following service
Easter Egg Hunt Details:
- Over 1,000 eggs hidden around our beautiful grounds!
- Age groups: Toddlers (0-2), Preschool (3-5), Elementary (6-10)
- Special prizes: Golden eggs with extra surprises
- Bring: Your own basket and camera for memories!
Good Friday Service
- When: 6:00pm
- What: A meaningful service of reflection and remembrance
- Childcare: Available for ages 0-5.
Easter Sunday Extravaganza
- Easter Breakfast: 8:30-9:30 in Fellowship Hall
- Traditional Service: 10am
Summer Adventures
Vacation Bible School
2026 Theme: TBD
- When: TBD
- Ages: 4 years old through 6th grade
- What to expect: Music, games, crafts, Bible stories, snacks, and NEW FRIENDS!
- Registration: Opens May 1st – spots fill up fast!
- Free
- Volunteer Opportunities: Teen helpers needed (service hours available)
G.R.A.S.P. Teen Mission Experience
Gilmer Relief And Service Project
- When: June 3rd – 7th, 2026
- Who: Rising 7th – 12th graders
- What: Local service projects, team building, and spiritual growth
- Projects include: Building wheel chair ramps, visiting with community members, yard projects, painting
- Cost: $75 (includes all meals, housing and T-shirt)
- Why teens love it: “Best week of my summer – make new friends while helping others!” – Tony
Year-Round Weekly Events
Every Sunday
- Worship Service: 10:00am
- Sunday School: 9:00 am (all ages)
- Youth Fellowship: 5:30pm (6th-12th grades)
Every Wednesday
- LIJ Kids: 3:30 pm
- Youth Bible Study: 5:00pm
- Young Adult Bible Study: 7:00pm
- Mission Dinners: 3rd Wednesday of the month
- Mission Wednesday: Last Wednesday of the month (community service)
Stay Connected
Never miss an event!
- Join our email list: ellijayfirstoffice@gmail.com
- Follow us on Facebook
- Call for immediate questions: 706-635-2555
Registration Policy: Most events require advance registration. Sign up early to guarantee your spot!
Financial Assistance: Don’t let cost keep your family away. Contact Pastor Mike confidentially about scholarship opportunities.
“Every gathering is an opportunity for ministry, fellowship, and spiritual growth. We can’t wait to see you there!”
– Ellijay First UMC Event Team
