Friday, Aug. 2, is a start date and a stop date for two events coming to the Creative Arts Guild, 520 W. Waugh St., in Dalton, Ga.

• Festival kickoff: The start date is the volunteer preview party for Festival 2013, the annual fall showcase of fine arts and crafts, set for Sept. 20-22. Festival features an indoor exhibition, outdoor artist market and entertainment. Friday's kickoff is the first preview of the works to be included in the indoor exhibition. Volunteers may sign up for Festival during the kickoff event, which will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the guild, 520 W. Waugh St. All volunteers receive a T-shirt.

• Gala deadline: Friday is also the last day to make reservations for the guild's 50th Anniversary Gala, set for 6 p.m. Aug. 10. The event includes dinner catered by On the List and dancing featuring Atlanta band Cashmere. All-inclusive tickets are $75. RSVP at 706-278-0168.

For more information, visit www.creativeartsguild.org.