Grits are more than just a constant presence on the Southern table—they’re a language all their own. For G&G’s Ultimate Guide to Grits, we asked more than fifty chefs, authors, historians, millers, and more for their best tips on preparing the Southern staple. And while just about everyone can agree that “grits beg for butter,” whether it’s the grits themselves, the cooking method, or cream or no cream, there was no shortage of strong—and sometimes conflicting—opinions. You’ll also find recipes for Lowcountry shrimp and grits, New Orleans grits cakes, and the behind-the-scenes story of one grits dish in Birmingham so beloved that diners have been known to throw fits if it’s not on the menu. Plus: Check out our look at great moments in grits history, including, of course, “Kiss My Grits!”

As the nation commemorates the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this Monday, a number of special celebrations around the South will honor the legacy of the civil rights leader, who would have turned 91 this year. In Atlanta, Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King was baptized and served as co-pastor, will hold its annual Martin Luther King Jr. commemorative service, followed by a rally and march on Auburn Avenue. Find more information on those and other area events throughout the week via the King Center’s calendar (PDF). In Memphis, the National Civil Rights Museum hosts an all-day celebration with free admission and a food and blood drive, while at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., visitors can help fashion scarves and hats for those in need while enjoying musical performances from students at Howard University. This year marks the 25th anniversary of MLK Day’s designation by Congress as a “day of service,” encouraging Americans to take the day on, rather than off by getting involved in their communities. Find volunteer opportunities in your area here.

In the heart of Atlanta this spring, country and Americana artists of every sound and style will gather for a special Southern music festival: Shaky Boots (May 8–9), back for the first time since 2015. Roots legends such as Brandi Carlile, John Prine, Alison Krauss, and Tanya Tucker will share the bill with Nashville stars such as Dierks Bentley and Morgan Wallen, making for a rollicking two-day party in the city’s Central Park that reimagines the Southern country experience. In addition to the tunes, a parade of gourmet food vendors from across the Southeast will offer a wide range of cuisine, and local vendors will set up shop for browsing between performances. View the full lineup and purchase tickets today.

Anyone in my regular foursome will tell you I’m a terrible golfer. But what I lack in talent I make up for in enthusiasm, and this year I’m going to fulfill a promise I made to myself and take a lesson at Mike Bender Golf Academy in Lake Mary, Florida. Mike’s teaching prowess is legendary, and if he can’t help me draw the perfect 320-yard drive, no one can—though I’d settle for just making good contact.

Let’s face it, Instagram is a drug and we’re all hooked. Recently I even pondered weaning myself off it. Then I stumbled upon @itchy_videos—the most joyful, smile-inducing collection of second-line parade videos ever assembled. NOLA’s second lines are descendants of the city’s famous jazz funerals, with jubilant dancers popping off to swinging brass bands. The footwork is fancy, fast, and so addictive to watch.

Each new year I proclaim the importance of collecting art, then do little to walk the walk. But I’m done obsessing over artist Frank Gonzales’ paintings, which explore ornithological subjects, plants, and colors. This year I’m finally hanging one on my wall.

Tickets are now on sale for the final installment of our Southern Oyster Social series (February 9) at the Garden & Gun Club in Atlanta. The evening focuses on Florida- and Alabama-raised oysters—raw, grilled, smoked, and steamed—along with other tasty bites.

Icons and up-and-coming musicians alike gather at the 30A Songwriters Festival in South Walton, Florida, which includes more than 200 performances in venues ranging from close-quarters listening rooms to booming outdoor stages. 

Once the third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico, Apalachicola, Florida, honors its history as a maritime hub and mecca for oyster lovers with the Apalachicola Oyster Cook-Off, with proceeds benefiting the local volunteer fire department. 

The Smithsonian Institute honors the history and looks to the future of rural America with the traveling exhibition Crossroads: Change in Rural America, which makes its next stop at St. Andrew College in Cuthbert, Georgia.

Sample from among more than fifty bourbons served up with barbecue and blues at Birmingham, Alabama’s BourbonHam, an annual fundraiser for the National MS Society.