The fourth annual Hummingbird Festival at Gaithers Plantation began Saturday with thousands of local residents turning out to enjoy the beautiful birds, great weather and the many artisan crafts on sale. This year's festival was moved ahead from its normal time in August to avoid the 100-plus-degree heat that comes later in the summer. Because of the change in season, fewer ruby-throated hummingbirds, native to this area of Georgia, were seen flying in the Gaithers' garden this year than in years past.