The town of Social Circle celebrated its 180th birthday during its annual Friendship Festival.

The event began at 9 a.m. in Social Circle's downtown business district at the intersection of Hightower Trail and Cherokee Road and ended at 4 p.m.

A parade that featured pet owners to participate by dressing their pets in "happy birthday" costumes began at 10 a.m. followed by a welcome from Mayor Hal Dally at 11 a.m.

Luke Pilgrim performed at 2 p.m. and the festival had a bevy of children's activities, along with 100booths and food.

The city also gave away 12 helicopter rides and offered 10-minute rides for $35 per person or $100 per group. The festival was sponsored by Social Circle's Better Hometown Program.