Hey Augusta.
Welcome back to Augusta Digest.
We’ve got some updates coming soon. Looking forward to hosting some of our own events and bringing the community together. IF you have any ideas let us know.
-Andrew
🥪 A 147-Year-Old Deli That Still Makes Augusta's Best Sandwich
Tucked on the corner of 6th and Ellis since 1879, Hildebrandt's is a fourth-generation, family-owned German-inspired delicatessen that most newcomers walk right past. Founded as a neighborhood grocery by Nicholas Hildebrandt, the shop evolved into a sandwich counter in the 1960s and hasn't slowed down since. The Reuben, piled high with corned beef, Swiss, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island on toasted rye, has been voted best sandwich in Augusta for years running. The German potato salad and authentic bratwurst with sauerkraut round out a menu that feels like a time capsule in the best way. Current owner Luanne Hildebrandt (4th generation) still greets regulars by voice on the phone. Lunch only, Monday through Saturday. Cash-friendly, no pretense, all flavor.
🛒 Trader Joe's Is Coming to Evans
The Gist: Trader Joe's confirmed plans for its first location in the Augusta area, with Columbia County commissioners actively working to secure a site in Evans. No timeline or exact address yet, but PR Manager Nakia Rohde confirmed the expansion on Feb. 16. Chairman Doug Duncan said Trader Joe's is the number one request he receives from residents.
Why It Matters: The closest Trader Joe's is over an hour away in Columbia, SC. This is a first for the CSRA.
🧬 Augusta Biotech Firm Lands $15M Federal Contract
The Gist: Manus, a biotech company with production facilities in east Augusta's industrial district on Lovers Lane, received $15 million in federal funding to expand production of shikimic acid, a key compound used to make oseltamivir (the generic name for Tamiflu). The investment supports domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Why It Matters: This positions Augusta as a growing hub for biomanufacturing and brings high-skill jobs to the area.
⛳ Tiger Woods Hints at 2026 Masters Return
The Gist: Speaking at Riviera Country Club ahead of the Genesis Invitational on Feb. 17, Tiger Woods did not rule out playing in the 2026 Masters (April 9-12 at Augusta National). The 50-year-old, five-time Masters champion confirmed he is hitting full shots again while recovering from his seventh back surgery and a ruptured Achilles. His last competitive round was at the 2024 Open Championship.
Why It Matters: A Tiger appearance at Augusta National would be massive for the city and for Masters week energy. Oddsmakers currently give him +200 odds (roughly 33%) to be in the field.
🏡 Augusta Home & Garden Show | Augusta Convention Center at the Marriott | Augusta | 02/20–02/22 | More Free admission all weekend with 150+ exhibitors, kids' workshops, and live demos.
🌟 Hello Beautiful Bridal Expo | Julian Smith Casino | Augusta | 02/22 | More Elegant showcase for couples planning weddings, with local vendors and tastings.
🏃 Sandy Rogers & Scotty Richardson Memorial Scholarship 5K | USCA Convocation Center | Graniteville | 02/21 | More Community run honoring local educators while raising scholarship funds.
💪 Viral Pro Wrestling: Inferno | Warren Road Community Center | Augusta | 02/21 | More Family-friendly live wrestling with high-energy matches and crowd favorites.
🎸 Styx | Bell Auditorium | Augusta | 02/20 | More Five decades of arena rock anthems from "Come Sail Away" to "Renegade."
🎵 Augusta Symphony: Tragic Love | Miller Theater | Augusta | 02/21 | More Sweeping orchestral program of timeless romantic masterworks.
🎤 Maddox Batson: Live Worldwide Tour | Bell Auditorium | Augusta | 02/21 | More Young viral sensation brings soulful vocals and electrifying stage presence.
🎶 T. Hardy Morris: Music at The Morris | SRP Auditorium at Morris Museum | Augusta | 02/22 | More Free intimate concert from Augusta-native indie folk songwriter. Funded by the Cleon W. Mauldin Foundation.
🎺 AU Wind Ensemble: Among the Stars | Maxwell Theatre | Augusta | 02/24 | More Augusta University's wind ensemble performs a celestial-themed program.
🎨 Cat Scratch Art Nights | Le Chat Noir Theatre | Augusta | 02/25 | More Creative evening blending art, drinks, and downtown vibes in an intimate theater setting.
If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.
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