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June 1, 2022June 6, 2022

June Events 2022

There is nothing like sweet summertime in the mountains! Lounging on the lake by day and sitting around the fire pit in the evening. Hiking up to waterfalls or splashing down a river. Exploring downtown or exploring nature. However you vacation, you’ll be happy to Escape to Blue Ridge for your summer getaway!

Thursday Fun Runs at the Riverwalk
June 2^nd – June 30^th
Location: Riverwalk Shops

Partake in a fun run every Thursday night at 5:30pm! You’ll leave from the Burra Burra, and the 3.1 mile run will take you by the Toccoa river and through town. You’ll get to run through 2 states and cross the famous steel bridge! After the run stay for drinks at the Burra Burra overlooking the Toccoa River. Don’t walk, RUN to this great event!

Pickin’ In The Park
June 2^nd – June 30^th
Location: Horseshoe Bend Park

Photo Courtesy of the Fannin County Recreation Department

Every Thursday night at 6pm, May – September visit Horseshoe Bend Park in McCaysville, GA for live music and picnicking by the Toccoa River. Picnic tables are available but feel free to bring a picnic blanket and lawn chair as well. Admission is free so bring the whole family to enjoy!

Live Music at Tooney’s
June 2^nd – June 17^th
Location: Tooney’s Music Venue

Come on out for live music at Tooney’s HUGE music venue select Friday and Saturday nights and enjoy the best live music McCaysville has to offer! Check their website often for live music updates. And every Thursday night get ready to take to the stage with open mic night!

June 2^nd: Open Mic Night
June 9^th: Open Mic Night
June 10^th: The Comancheros with One for the Road
June 16^th: Open Mic Night
June 17^th: Jacob Bryant w/Tyler Leamon & Chase Baker

Live Music at Grumpy Old Men Brewing
June 2^nd – 30^th
Location: Grumpy Old Men Brewing

Photo Courtesy of Grumpy Old Men Brewery

Stop by Grumpy Old Men Brewery Thursdays to sing along to your favorite songs for karaoke night! And drop by select Fridays & Saturdays from 3pm – 6pm for great drinks, great music, and a great time. With indoor and outdoor seating available you can even bring your dog to join in the fun! Enjoy a delicious hotdog from Jeff’s Hotdog’s while you listen to some fantastic local artists!

June 2^nd: Thursday Karaoke
June 3^rd: Lindsay Beth Harper
June 4^th: Blue Lava
June 9^th: Thursday Karaoke
June 10^th: The Orange Walls
June 11^th: Paul Douglas Sanner
June 16^th: Thursday Karaoke
June 17^th: Dr. Paul
June 18^th: Saturday Karaoke
June 23^rd: Thursday Karaoke
June 24^th: Stephen Vaclavic
June 25^th: Troy Underwood
June 30^th: Thursday Karaoke

North Georgia Highland Seafood Festival
June 3^rd – June 5^th
Location: Mayor’s Park in Young Harris, GA

Photo Courtesy of teh North Georgia Highland Seafood Festival

Come enjoy premium seafood in North Georgia at the North Georgia Highland Seafood Festival in Young Harris! There will be music, arts & crafts, and plenty of delicious seafood. Admission is $5 a person.

Live Music at Misty Mountain Hops
June 3^rd – June 18^th
Location: Misty Mountain Hops

Misty Mountain Hops is a music-centric restaurant and pub so it’s only fitting that they bring in live music. Stop on by Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm – 9pm for great food and great live music from local artists!

June 3^rd: Dan Foster
June 4^th: Rose Brown
June 10^th: Levi Ransom
June 11^th: The Stephen Busie Band
June 17^th: Jeremy Wells
June 18^th: Travis Bowlin

Live Music at The Dogwood
June 3^rd – June 25^th
Location: The Dogwood

Relax on the beautiful patio, under 100-year-old trees at The Dogwood in Downtown Blue Ridge! With delicious cocktails, an amazing limited menu, and live music from local artists on Fridays & Saturdays starting at 5pm, you’ll love your time at The Dogwood!

June 3^rd: Roscoe’s Roadshow
June 10^th: Travis Bowlin
June 11^th: Lindsay Beth Harper
June 17^th: Surrender Hill
June 18^th: David Welch
June 24^th: Robbie Litt
June 25^th: Matty Croxton

Live Music at Lake Blue Ridge Marina
June 3^rd – June 24^th
Location: Boat Dock Bar & Grill at Lake Blue Ridge Marina

Photo Courtesy of the Boat Dock Bar & Grill

Relax on the shores of Lake Blue Ridge from the Boat Dock Bar & Grill at Lake Blue Ridge Marina. There you’ll have a beautiful view of the lake, delicious entrees and cocktails, and live music on the weekends! Live music is 6pm – 9pm on select Fridays. You’ll feel relaxed and renewed in no time!

June 3^rd: Travis Bowlin
June 17^th: David Welch
June 24^th: Danny Rhea

Live Music at Bear Claw Vineyards & Winery
June 3^rd – June 26^th
Location: Bear Claw Vineyards

For award winning wine, live music, and food trucks, Bear Claw Vineyards is the place for you! Join them every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for live music and food trucks. Kids and dogs are welcome too! The live music schedule for each weekend is shared on their website each Thursday so be sure to check back!

Live Music at Hook & Eye
June 3^rd
Location: Hook & Eye Rooftop Bar

Take in downtown Blue Ridge from the roof of the Hook & Eye! This restaurant features excellent cuisine, a full bar, great views, an inviting atmosphere inside, and balcony seating on the outside!

June 3^rd: Ray Labean

Guided Hikes with the Benton McKaye Trail Association
June 3^rd – June 17^th
Location: Cherry Log, GA

Photo Courtesy of teh Benton McKaye Trail Association

Explore the beauty of North Georgia on a guided hiking tour with the Benton McKaye Trail Association. They offer 3 – 5 hikes a month varying in difficulty from easy, leisurely hikes to moderately difficult hikes.

June 3^rd: Brush Creek Trail
June 4^th: 2022 National Trails Day
June 17^th: BMT: Lost Creek Section

Live Music at Paradise Hills
June 3^rd – June 25^th
Location: Paradise Hills Farm Winery

Visit the winery at the beautiful Paradise Hills hidden in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The tasting room offers Paradise Hills wine, a selection of craft beers, hard cider, and wine slushies as well as cheese and charcuterie boards, tapas, and shared platters. You can enjoy your drinks and snacks as you listen to local artists perform Fridays 4pm – 8pm & Saturdays from 1pm – 5pm.

June 3^rd: Rusted Melody
June 10^th: Sam B
June 11^th: Chris Carpenter
June 17^th: Emma Gullo
June 18^th: Tom Edwards
June 24^th: Trailer Hippies
June 25^th: Dr. Paul

Live Music at Grandaddy Mimm’s
June 4^th – June 25^th
Location: Grandaddy Mimm’s

Photo Courtesy of Grandaddy Mimm’s Distillery

Head over to Grandaddy Mimm’s Distillery in Blairsvile for a handcrafted moonshine or spirit! And drop by select Saturday afternoons for live music from local artists!

June 4^th: Mountain Breeze
June 18^th: Kim & Curtis Jones
June 25^th: River Dixon

Saturday Night Music in the Park
June 4^th – June 25^th
Location: Vogel State Park

Head to the beautiful Vogel State Park for live music from local artists every Saturday evening all summer long! Drop by at 7pm for music at the lakeside pavilion!

Angler Appreciation Day at Rock Creek
June 4^th
Location: Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery

Photo Courtesy of the Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery

Bring your fishing gear & bait for Angler Appreciation Day at the fish hatchery! Rock Creek and the hatchery will be stocked with fish for the catching. Catch a tagged fish and you could win a prize! Come on out rain or shine for this awesome FREE fishing event!

Blue Ridge Sports Card and Collectibles Show
June 4^th
Location: Kiwanis Club of Blue Ridge Fairgrounds

Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Sports Cards and Collectibles Show

Come stock up on sports collectibles, comics, and cards at this Blue Ridge show! There will be 60+ tables set up filled with awesome collectables. Admission is $2 for 15+ and children 15 & under are free!

Happy Together Tour
June 4^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Head to Hiawassee for a night of 60’s & 70’s hits from artists like The Turtles, Gary Puckett & Union Gap, The Association, The Buckinghams, The Vogues, and The Cowsills! The show kicks off at 7pm and tickets are $45+handling.

Live Music at Cartecay Vineyards
June 4^th
Location: Cartecay Vineyards

Sip on delicious wine surrounded by the North Georgia Mountains! Enjoy live music select Saturdays & Sundays from 1:30pm – 5:30pm. Listen to the music of local artists while enjoying your wine outside either on the Chimney Patio or the Tasting Barn’s covered porch. Live music, good wine, and beautiful mountain scenery; it doesn’t get much better than that!

June 4^th: Jesse Black

Downtown Market Blue Ridge
June 4th – June 25th
Location: 400 West Main Street

Photo Courtesy of the Downtwon Blue Ridge Market

Enjoy this wonderful market every Saturday from 9am – 1pm now till November (weather permitting) right in the heart of Downtown Blue Ridge! There will be all kinds of vendors offering food, artisan goods, arts & crafts, furniture, and more!

Live Music at Bin 322 Wine & Tapas Bar
June 4^th – June 27^th
Location: Bin 322 Wine & Tapas Bar

Where else can you find regional wines from all over the world, tapas and other delicious international platters, and live music!? At Bin 322 Wine & Tapas Bar! Drop by Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm – 9pm to enjoy live music from local artists and choose from their great wine selection. And on Monday nights from 6pm – 8pm join in on SINGO, music style bingo! There’s always fun to be had at Bin 322!

June 4^th: Paul Arrado
June 6^th: Trivia
June 11^th: TNT
June 13^th: Trivia
June 18^th: Denise Moo
June 20^th: Trivia
June 25^th: Ray Labean
June 27^th: Trivia

Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games
June 11^th – June 12^th
Location: Meeks Park

Photo Courtesy of the Blairsville Scottish Festival

Come one, come all to this celebration of Scottish heritage in Blairsville! The event will have traditional games, highland music, Scottish food, border collies herding sheep, and plenty of Scottish flair! You and the wee ones won’t want to miss this great event happening all weekend long from 9am – 5pm.

Northeast Georgia Arts Tour
June 10^th – June 12^th
Location: All around North Georgia!

Photo Courtesy of the Northeast Georgia Arts Tour

Check out live demonstrations from artists all weekend from all over North Georgia! Just follow the Art Tour signs in Towns & Union County, Clay County, Rabun County, White County, and Habersham County. The event runs from 10am – 5pm each day. You’ll see artists creating beautiful paints, pottery, folk art, jewelry, glass, photography, handcrafted furniture, and so much more! Get your map from https://artstour.org/

Summer Youth Arts Camp
June 14^th – June 30^th
Location: The Art Center (Blue Ridge Mountains Art Association)

Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountain Art Association

Looking for something to keep your kids busy and entertained this summer? Sign them up for the Summer Youth Arts Camp! The Art Center offers three weeks of full day camp with wonderful art classes like clay, painting, and much more! Chose to sign your child up for one week or all three! Your creative and artistic child will come home with new skills and techniques and an even greater love for art in no time!

11^th Annual Blairsville Pro Rodeo
June 17^th – 18^th
Location: Union County Saddle Club Arena

Head to Blairsville for the 11^th Annual Pro Rodeo! Catch all the action in the covered arena from 8pm – 11pm. There is also plenty to do for the littles ones as well, along with food and fun! Tickets at the gate are $15 for adults, children 6 – 12 $10, and children 5 & under free.

Sunshine Arts & Crafts Market
June 18^th
Location: North Georgia Technical College

Photo Courtesy of Twisted Wire Trees and more

Come admire beautiful works of art from some of your favorite local artists at the Sunshine Arts & Crafts Market! There will 35 artists with their works displayed in the dining room and on the outdoor covered patio. Admission is free.

Georgia Mountain Classics Cruise Ins
June 24^th
Location: Dairy Queen / DQ Grill & Chill, Blue Ridge

Photo Courtesy of Georgia Mountain Classics Car Club

Admire a selection of classic cars at this free event happening on the 4th Friday of every month March thru September at 6pm! Bring your own classic car to register and get $4 off Dairy Queen certificate when you register! Ice cream, classic cars, and a good time!

Greater Atlanta British Motorcycle Association
June 24^th – June 25^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Come on out to Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds for the annual summer British in the Blue Ridge Rally! This is THE premier British motorcycle rally in the southeastern United States and has been held every year since 1985. The event will have a motorcycle show, vendors, field events, mountain motorcycle rides, and camping! All makes and models are welcome to join and campsites are available as well!

Blue Ridge Mountains Wine and Jazz Festival
June 25^th – June 26^th
Location: White Path Creek Farms

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountains Wine & Jazz Festival

Make your way over to the beautiful White Path Creek Farms in Ellijay for Blue Ridge’s annual Wine and Jazz Festival! There will be great music, delicious wines, beautiful art, tasty food! The food is prepared locally and the jazz performers are some of the top in the region. Come on out and enjoy this wonderful event!

Made in Georgia Festival
June 25^th – June 26^th
Location: Towns County Recreation & Conference Center

Photo Courtesy of the Made in Georgia Festival

If you’re ready to shop for unique items made right here in Georgia then check out the Made in Georgia Festival! You’ll be able to shop at over 75 vendors who offer a wide variety of products made, grown, brewed, harvested, stitched, crafted, or inspired by Georgia. Take home fashion accessories, home décor, health and beauty products, and so much more! Even enjoy gourmet food and treats from some of Georgia’s top chefs! The event runs Saturday from 10am – 5pm and Sunday 11am – 4pm. Entry is $7; children 14 and under are free!

Fido’s Freedom Celebration
June 30^th
Location: INOLA Blue Ridge

Come on out to the beautiful INOLA for a celebration of freedom! Celebrate the hundreds of dogs that have been freed from life on a chain at the 4^th Annual Fido’s Freedom Celebration. Tickets are $50 per person and will grant you access to a silent auction, live music by Double Play, a raffle, and more. All proceeds of this fundraiser go towards freeing more deserving dogs.

April 25, 2022April 25, 2022

May Events 2022

Spring is in full bloom and this is an ideal time to come visit the North Georgia Mountains! Escape to Blue Ridge and enjoy a vibrant downtown, great restaurants, unique shops, rushing waterfalls, a sparkling blue lake, and mountain views that will take your breath away! Here’s your guide to local events in Blue Ridge and the surrounding areas for May:

Guided Hikes with the Benton McKaye Trail Association
May 4^th – May 21^st
Location: Cherry Log, GA

Photo Courtesy of the Benton McKaye Trail

Explore the beauty of North Georgia on a guided hiking tour with the Benton McKaye Trail Association. They offer 4 – 5 hikes a month varying in difficulty from easy, leisurely hikes to moderately difficult hikes.

May 4^th: Lady Slipper Hike BMT at Weaver Creek in Blue Ridge
May 9^th: BMT from Thunder Rock Campground
May 20^th: Amadahy Trail – Dog friendly hike
May 21^st: Memorial Hike for Tom Wright

Live Music at Tooney’s
May 5^th – May 27^th
Location: Tooney’s Music Venue

May 5^th: Open Mic Night
May 6^th: Whiskey Rose Band
May 7^th: The Chris Key Band
May 12^th: Open Mic Night
May 13^th: Canon Tyler & The Spare Parts
May 14^th: Smokey Jones & the Three Dollar Pistols
May 19^th: Open Mic Night
May 20^th: Them Dirty Roses w/ One For The Road
May 21^st: Whiskey, Stills & Mash
May 26^th: Open Mic Night
May 27^th: Rosewood Grips

Thursday Fun Runs at the Riverwalk
May 5^th – May 26^th
Location: Riverwalk Shops

Photo Courtesy of McCaysville Riverwalk Shops

Pickin’ In The Park
May 5^th – May 26^th
Location: Horseshoe Bend Park

Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Recreation Department

Blue Ridge Adventure Race
May 6^th – 7^th
Location: The Downtown Pavilion and Bandstand

Adventure your way through some of the most beautiful areas in Blue Ridge at the 25^th Annual Blue Ridge Adventure Race Weekend. This year’s 10 hour race will take place on the Aska Trails with a paddle part down the Toccoa. And on the 24 hour race you’ll venture through Amicalola Falls Park and then make your way back to Blue Ridge. Come watch as teams race through mountains, lakes, rivers, trails and more.

Live Music at Misty Mountain Hops
May 6^th – May 28^th
Location: Misty Mountain Hops

May 6^th: Doctor Paul Constantine
May 7^th: Steve Baskin
May 13^th: Jennifer Lynn Simpson
May 14^th: Ray LaBean
May 20^th: Scott Stambaugh
May 21^st: Steven Push
May 27^th: Steve Vaclavik
May 28^th: Canon Tyler

Live Music at The Dogwood
May 6^th – 28^th
Location: The Dogwood

May 6^th: Roscoe’s Roadshow
May 7^th: Daisy Chain
May 13^th: Travis Bowlin
May 20^th: Megan Fowler
May 21^st: Wyatt Espalin
May 27^th: Robbie Litt
May 28^th: Matty Croxton

Live Music at Hook & Eye
May 6^th – 13^th
Location: Hook & Eye Rooftop Bar

Take in downtown Blue Ridge from the roof of the Hook & Eye! This restaurant features excellent cuisine, a full bar, great views, an inviting atmosphere inside, and balcony seating on the outside!

May 6^th & 13th: Trevor Ciongoli

The Rhododendron Festival
May 6^th – 22^nd
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Head over to Hiawassee for 5 weekends filled with spring fun at The Rhododendron Festival at their beautiful Hamilton Gardens. Not only will you have the chance to tour the lovely gardens at full bloom but you will also have the chance to enjoy live music, food and craft vendors, a plant sale, daily seminars, and much more! Admission to the gardens is $5 and the event takes place every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from April 22nd – May 22nd.

Georgia Apple Blossom Festival
May 7^th – 8^th
Location: East Ellijay

The Georgia Apple Blossom Festival is back and better than ever with over 60 craft vendors, live music, food vendors, and family fun! Celebrate spring in North Georgia in Ellijay!

Ducktown Spring Festival
May 7^th
Location: Ducktown School

Head across the border to Tennessee for the Ducktown Spring Festival! From 11am – 8pm there will be arts & crafts, Bluegrass music, and lots of fun! Admission is $5 for children 12 & up.

Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival
May 7^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Photo Courtesy of Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Explore the beautiful Hamilton Gardens and drink wine all day long at the first ever Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! There will be live music, arts & craft vendors, live music, food, garden tours, and 20+ wineries In attendance at this awesome event! Tickets are $35 a person online or $40 at the gate.

Live Music at Paradise Hills
May 7^th – May 29^th
Location: Paradise Hills, Cabins-Spa-Farm Winery

May 7^th: Ryan Little Eagle
May 14^th: Tom Edwards
May 21^st: Dr. Paul
May 27^th: Trailer Hippies
May 28^th: Stephan Busie Band (Great American Pie Festival $25 ticket)
May 29^th: Scott Stambough

Tommy Townsend’s Southern Man Album Release Party
May 7^th
Location: Grandaddy Mimm’s

Celebrate the release of Tommy Townsend’s newest album with some moonshine from Grandaddy Mimm’s! Come on out and listen to him play songs from his Southern Man album along with Waymore’s Outlaws from 7pm – 10pm!

Mother’s Day Celebration
May 8^th
Location: Bin 322

Celebrate your momma at Bin 322! A four course meal will be provided from Chef Joseph’s Creations, along with a complimentary bottle of wine and live jazz music from Ryan Davis & Tom Ladow. If interested please contact Bin 322 for more details & ticket prices.

Blithe Spirit
May 12^th – 29^th
Location: Blue Ridge Community Theater

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Community Theater

In the show when novelist Charles, with the help of Madame Arcati, performs a séance it accidentally summons his first wife. Charle’s first wife then attempts to ruin his current marriage and put him in harm’s way so that he can live with her in death! Come see this hilarious show at Blue Ridge Community Theater Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. The show runs now till March 20th, call the box office at 706-632-9191 for tickets!

Bonnie & Clyde the Musical
May 13^th – 15^th
Location: Fannin County Performing Arts Center

Photo Courtesy of Fannin County High School

Come see the musical retelling of the renowned criminal duo Bonnie & Clyde at the Fannin County Performing Arts Center. Shows are the 13^th at 7pm, the 14^th at 2pm & 7pm, and the 15^th at 2pm & 6pm. Don’t miss Fannin County High School perform this awesome show. Tickets are $9.

Live Music at Lake Blue Ridge Marina
May 13^th – May 27^th
Location: Boat Dock Bar & Grill at Lake Blue Ridge Marina

Photo Courtesy of the Lake Blue Ridge Marina

May 13^th: Danny Rhea
May 20^th: Travis Bowlin
May 27^th: David Welch

Georgia Mountain Classics Annual Car Show
May 14^th
Location: Downtown Blue Ridge City Park

The Classic Car Show is back in Downtown Blue Ridge! Drop by May 14^th from 9am – 4pm for classic cars, concessions, and vendors. Interested in submitted your own car? Register on their website and receive a goodie bag for participating.

Scotty McCreery
May 14^th
Location: The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

He rose to fame from American Idol and now he is one of country music’s biggest stars! Don’t miss Scotty McCreery at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds on May 14^th at 7pm! He’ll be performing some of his biggest hits and songs from his newest album ‘Same Truck’.

Spring Festival
May 21^st
Location: Blue Ridge United Methodist Church

Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge United Methodist Church

Blue Ridge United Methodist Church is hosting a Spring Festival! There will be games, crafts, live music, magic, a cakewalk and more! And it’s free! Drop by from 10am – 3pm on May 21^st.

2^nd Annual Paws for Celebration
May 21^st
Location: Willow Falls Resort

Photo Courtesy of the Humane Society of Blue Ridge

Give back to the community with this wonderful event hosted by the Humane Society of Blue Ridge. There will be a silent auction, live music from Mook and Mimi, beer & wine for a $5 donation, and dinner from the Rum Cake Lady! Tickets are $65 a person and can be purchase from the Humane Society of Blue Ridge’s website.

Live Music at Cartecay Vineyards
May 21^st
Location: Cartecay Vineyards

Sip on delicious wine surrounded by the North Georgia Mountains at Cartecay Vineyards! Enjoy live music select Saturdays & Sundays from 1:30pm – 5:30pm. Listen to the music of local artists while enjoying your wine outside either on the Chimney Patio or the Tasting Barn’s covered porch. Live music, good wine, and beautiful mountain scenery; it doesn’t get much better than that!

May 21st: Adrian Stover Live

Dance to the Oldies
May 21^st
Location: Haralson Memorial Civic Center

Grab your dancing shoes and head over to Blairsville for the night to celebrate the red, white, and blue. Kurt the Old School DJ will be playing hot songs from the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s all night long! There will be snacks, drinks, a raffle, and lots of dancing. The event is free but donations are appreciated!

Georgia Mountain Classics Cruise Ins
May 27^th
Location: Dairy Queen / DQ Grill & Chill, Blue Ridge

Photo Courtesy of Georgia Mountain Classic Car Club

Admire a selection of Classic Cars at this free event happening on the 4th Friday of every month March thru September at 6pm! Bring your own classic car to register and get $4 off Dairy Queen certificate when you register! Ice cream, classic cars, and a good time!

Movie Night at Deep Roots Orchard
May 27^th
Location: Deep Root Orchard

Watch a free movie under the stars at Deep Roots Orchard. The movie is “Dirty Dancing” and starts at 9pm. Bring blankets and pillows and get comfy as you enjoy your movie. And if you’re in the need for movie snacks concessions will be sold as well!

Hiawassee Pro Rodeo
May 27^th – May 29^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Celebrate the long weekend by watching bucking bronos & bulls at the annual Hiawassee Pro Rodeo! See some of the world’s best contestants from the U.S. and Canada as well as some amazing specialty acts! The whole family will love it! Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children (6-12) and children 5 & under are free!

46^th Annual Spring Arts in the Park
May 28^th – 29^th
Location: Blue Ridge Downtown City Park

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Art Association

The Spring Arts in the Park is back for it’s 46^th year in a row! Shop artworks from over 175 juried fine artists! There will also be food vendors and artist demos all weekend long. Admission is $5 for adults and children 12 & under are free! All proceeds go towards the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association.

Memorial Day Parade
May 28^th
Location: Blairsville, GA

Photo Courtesy of the American Legion Post 121, Blairsville

Honor those who have fallen during their military service at Blairsville’s Annual Memorial Day Parade. The parade starts at 10:30am!

Live Music at Grandaddy Mimm’s
May 28^th
Location: Grandaddy Mimm’s

Head over to Grandaddy Mimm’s Distillery in Blairsvile for a handcrafted moonshine or spirit! And drop by select Saturday afternoons for live music from local artists!

May 28^th: Lucas Smith

The Spring Arts, Crafts & Music Festival
May 28^th – 29^th
Location: Downtown Blairsville

Photo Courtesy of Visit Downtown Blairsvlle

Blairsville’s Downtown comes alive Memorial Day Weekend with talented artists, musicians, and food. The weekend begins with a concert at the Old Courthouse Friday evening, a Memorial Day parade at 10am on Saturday, an outdoor concert on the Square Saturday evening and of course the festival! FREE and family-friendly!

September 24, 2021September 9, 2023

The Blue Ridge Experience: Fall Edition

Fall is by far one of our favorite times in Blue Ridge. The weather is crisp and comfortable, the leaves are bright and colorful, it’s sweater weather and pumpkin spice time! We encourage you to take some time to soak in the fall beauty of Blue Ridge. Enjoy taking a scenic drive through the mountains, go apple picking, explore a waterfall, or simply relax in your luxurious mountain cabin sitting by the fire and enjoying the views! Find the perfect cabin for all your fall adventures and Escape to Blue Ridge this season!

A Bushel or A Peck of Apples

Nothing says fall like a trip to the apple orchard! Take a trip to Mercier Orchards where you can pick out your own apples and sweet goodies from the market & bakery. Their fried apple pies and apple cider donuts are a MUST! And be sure to sample their selection of wines and ciders while you’re there as well.

Want to pick your own apples straight from the tree? Pay a visit to Deep Roots Orchard where you can pick your own delicious apples. Then take the kiddos on a wagon ride through the orchard and even a barn tour! Our wonderful, local orchards always have something going on in the fall!

Hit The Road

When the leaves reach their peak color in late October it’s the absolute perfect time to go on a scenic drive around the Blue Ridge mountains.

Grab the whole gang and drive around the surrounding mountains and forests to take in the views. Some of our favorite routes include The Russel-Brasstown Scenic Drive and Highway 60 through Suches. Check out our fall driving guide for more routes & pitstops: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/5-scenic-fall-drives/
Want to lay back and relax while someone else drives? Take a ride on The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway! You’ll pass by the rushing waters of The Toccoa River and the North Georgia Countryside. You can admire all the fall foliage from the comfort of the train as the trees zoom by!
Or you can feel one with nature and view the beautiful leaves on horseback. The weather is perfect for a trail ride past the mountains and forests of North Georgia. We rounded up a list of our favorite equestrian barns: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/horseback-riding-in-blue-ridge/

Take a Hike

Fall is also a great time to put on your boots and hit the trails! The weather is perfect, not too hot and not too cold; just the right temperature and very few bugs! You’ll love exploring the forests of Blue Ridge as you watch the wind rustle the colorful leaves in the trees surrounding you. Hike to a waterfall like Long Creek Falls or Helton Creek Falls, or up a mountain like Springer Mountain or Brasstown Bald, or even cross the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi. The journey is yours to decide! Our hiking guide: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/seven-blue-ridge-hikes/

Go to a Coffee Shop

Stay warm and cozy this fall and visit a coffee shop! Pay a visit to Das Kaffee Haus in Downtown Blue Ridge for a delicious cup of your favorite coffee or a European classic. And don’t forget to pick up a dessert as well; choose from cakes, truffles, and more!

Visiting the twin cities of McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN? Then check out Yellow Bird Coffee Shop! Sip espresso by the Ocoee River or if you’re in a hurry go through the drive-thru and take your coffee to-go! We know fall and coffee shops go hand in hand; so don’t forget to get yourself one of those pumpkin spice lattes! 😉

Have a Bonfire

There’s nothing quite like a bonfire on a cool fall evening. Roast s’mores by the fire, swap ghost stories, and gaze up at the stars in the clear night sky. You’ll feel relaxed and cozy in no time curled up by the fire with your favorites!

Visit Local Breweries & Wineries

Photo Courtesy of Grumpy Old Men Brewing

Relaxing out on the patio, admiring the mountain views with a glass of wine or a cold beer in your hand; there’s nothing quite like it! There are several local breweries and wineries all ready to serve you this fall. You will also often find live music on most weekends to enjoy while you savor your flight! Some of our favorite spots include; Bear Claw Vineyards, Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Whiskey & Water – Seafood and Bourbon Bar, and Fannin Brewing Co.

Experience a Fall Festival

Fall Festival courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Fall in the mountains is filled with many great festivals and events in and around the Blue Ridge area!

Take a quick drive to Cherry Log, GA for their fall festival, the first 2 weekends of October! There will be arts and crafts, homemade goodies and treats, bluegrass, country, and gospel music and of course lots of fall fun in Downtown Cherry Log!
In Hiawassee, GA you can join in the fun at their week-long Georgia Mountain Fall Festival! There will craft vendors, delicious food, musical performances, educational demonstrations, and so much more! You won’t want to miss out on the fun, daily October 8th-16th!
You can’t have fall without apples so head over to Ellijay, GA for The Georgia Apple Festival! With over 300+ vendors, an antique car show, a parade, and so much more it’s sure to be a blast! Visit the Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds on weekends October 9th-17th to have an “apple”achian good time!
The 52nd Annual Sorghum Festival is one of the longest-running festivals in North Georgia. The event kicks off with a parade and then there will be crafters, cloggers, bluegrass music and more! Visit Meeks Park in Blairsville, GA Saturdays & Sundays October 9th-17th to take part!
Calling all art lovers! The popular Arts in the Park event is back this fall! Beautiful art, great live musical performances, and delicious food. Plus you’ll get a chance to admire the stunning and colorful fall trees that surround the park! The event takes place October 9th-10th in Downtown Blue Ridge and Veterans Memorial Park.
Celebrate Dahlonega’s 1828 discovery of gold at Gold Rush Days Festival, October 16th-17th in downtown Dahlonega. Take in 300+ food and art vendors all weekend long! This HUGE event always features amazing craftsmen, fantastic musicians, and has been voted as one of the Top 20 Events in the southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society.
Pay a visit to Talking Rock, GA for the 2021 Heritage Day Festival. Arts & crafts, antiques, live music, great food, and interesting demonstrations await you October 16th-17th.
And craft brew lovers will flock to Hiawassee, GA for the Appalachian Brew, Stew, and Que Festival at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. If the name didn’t give it away, there’ll be 60+ breweries, delicious food, and awesome Appalachian Music all happening on October 23rd!

Get Spooky

We’ve many a haunted spot around just in time for Halloween!

Check out the Haunted Copper Plant Rides on the grounds of the old historic Tennessee Copper Company October 16th-31st for a perfectly scary time! Go beyond the gates of historic copper mining company and go for a 45-minute ride with 6 scare scenes!
Join the master of Horror himself as Edgar Allen Poe guides you through a frightful evening of his most terrifying and popular works. Love & Death by Poe will be on stage October 28 – 31. Don’t miss this frightful night of terror at the Blue Ridge Community Theater!
And visit Deep Roots Orchards, October 30th for a night of horror movies! The double-feature will be Blair Witch Project and Halloween. Grab your popcorn!

Trick or Treat

Halloween wouldn’t be complete without a bag full of candy and a great costume! Head to Downtown Blue Ridge or the twin cities of McCaysville and Copperhill on October 30th for an evening of trick or treating! The kids will love dressing up and trick or treating from shop to shop. There will also be the Big Foot Boogie 5k, pumpkin carving, costume contests, food, and entertainment!

Looking for something a little more non-traditional for your tricks and treats this year? Dress up and head to Project Chimps October 30th-31st for “Chimp or Treat”. Not only will kids get a goodie bag full of treats but they’ll also get a close-up look of the chimpanzees in their habitat!

Gather Together

Spend your Thanksgiving in the mountains with the friends and family who mean the most to you! Select a fabulous cabin, cook up a delicious meal in our fully-stocked kitchens, take in the mountain views, and gather around the table for a great meal made with lots of love!

Take full advantage of the beautiful weather and great events happening this fall in Blue Ridge! There’s nothing quite like fall in the mountains!

December 29, 2019September 9, 2023

TOP 20 THINGS TO DO IN BLUE RIDGE FOR 2020

As we ring in not just a New Year, but a new Decade, 365 opportunities await you to get out and explore the beautiful North Georgia Mountains. Here are a few of our favorite ideas to enjoy your 2020 Escape to Blue Ridge!

1. EAT BLACK-EYED PEAS & COLLARD GREENS

After all, it’s a southern tradition. Eat these as your first meal for the New Year and you will increase your luck and prosperity for the year ahead. The Village Restaurant will be open and ready to serve you the very best in Southern Cuisine

2. WALK THE LINE

Take a walk on the state line between the twin cities of McCaysville, Ga and Copperhill, Tn! This newly revitalized town features great shopping, delicious restaurants, and plenty of photographic opportunities.

3. HIT THE LINKS

Old Toccoa Farm is the seven-course meal of golf courses in North Georgia. It took a few years to fill out the full complement of 18 holes, but the first nine, which has been open since 2015, was enough to garner stupendous compliments and comparisons to the likes of Augusta National. Now with the back nine open, and the layout reconfigured, Old Toccoa is by far the best of the best in this neck of the North Georgia woods!

4. ENJOY LIFE ON THE LAKE

Beautiful Lake Blue Ridge offers 3,290-acres of crystal-clear water to explore. Bring your own water craft, rent a pontoon boat, or take a guided tour with Capt’n Joe. Whether you are kayaking, tubing, fishing, or just floating along, there is no prettier place in the world than where the mountains meet the water.

5. SADDLE UP & RIDE

There is nothing more enjoyable than unplugging form the digital world, saddling up on horseback, and heading out into the countryside. In Blue Ridge, forty percent of the county’s land is located within the Chattahoochee National Forest and has countless miles of trails to explore and enjoy.

6. TAKE IN A FESTIVAL OR 5

There is always something happening in these here mountains. Festival season begins in February and ends in October, plus holiday activities are abundant in November and December. You will be blown away with the ice sculpting that takes place at the annual Fire and Ice Chili Cookoff. Blue Ridge festivals are family friendly, pet friendly, and extraordinarily fun!

7. FLY FISH IN THE TROUT CAPITAL OF GEORGIA

Brown trout, rainbow trout, and native trout are abundant in our freshwater mountain streams. Stop by and see Andy Bowen at the Cohutta Fishing Company for some flies and a pole. Then head out to the headwaters of the Toccoa River, Noontootla Creek, or Rock Creek for premier trout fishing.

8. WALK IN THE WOODS

There are few better places to hike than on the hundreds and hundreds of miles of trails that crisscross the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia. Not only is this an area that speaks to the hiker in familiar terms – Appalachian Trail, Benton MacKaye Trail, Amicalola Falls – but it’s the wide variety of experiences, from the casual to the challenging, that make these hikes some of the most popular in America.

9. GET IN THE “SPIRIT”

You can’t visit the mountains without trying the refreshing flavors of Hard Cider at Mercier Orchards. While you are there, pick up a peck of apples and some of their fruit infused wines as well. If you are more of a purist, both Bear Claw Vineyards and Serenberry Vineyards have classic Chardonnays, Sauvignons, and more. If Craft beer is more your style, don’t fret, there are many options to choose from like Grumpy Old Men Brewing and Fannin Brewing Company.

10. HUNT FOR BIG FOOT

Plan to visit EXPEDITION: BIGFOOT! The Sasquatch Museum. You may be giggling on the way in the door, but you will leave with a new appreciation for your next walk in the woods. You’ll discover why Big Footers from around the globe make the pilgrimage to Blue Ridge just to explore this museum and its many relics.

11. SWING INTO THE NEW YEAR

Pack up a picnic and hit either the Benton MacKaye Trail or the Duncan Ridge National Recreation Trail to the Swinging Bridge. This 270-foot-long suspension bridge is the longest swinging bride east of the Mississippi River! If you do decide to jump in the middle, make sure you are faster than your travel buddies or you might get thrown off!

12. CHASE WATERFALLS

A short, family friendly hike makes Fall Branch Falls a must do activity for the young and young at heart. Explore both the upper and lower area of the falls and take time to relax on the rocks and enjoy the views. Don’t forget to bring your best friend. Dogs will enjoy the trail as much as their humans.

13. CHOO CHOO

The iconic Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a must do when in town. Enjoy the scenery every season of the year as the train departs from Downtown Blue Ridge and travels the countryside to the revitalized towns of Copperhill, TN and McCaysville, GA

14. DRIVE IN

If you haven’t been to a drive-in movie since you were a kid, we encourage you to make plans to go to the Swan Drive In Theater and take in a show or a double feature! A throwback to yesteryears, there is just something so fun about watching a movie outdoors.

15. FAIRY CROSS & TRAIL TREES

Legend has it that as the Native Americans embarked on the Trail of Tears, they shed tears of sorrow that fell to the ground and formed tiny crosses of stone known as Fairy Crosses. Commonly known as staurolite crystals, these minerals are abundant in Fannin County.

16. HIT THE RAPIDS

The Southeastern United States is known for having some of the best whitewater around. Here in Blue Ridge we are within 1 hour of 3 action packed, exciting rivers and 2 hours away from one of the most challenging rivers in the state!

17. RELAX

If you are looking for a new hair style, a total manicure and pedicure, body scrub, massage, or a special facial treatment/peel, you will find an amazing staff of creative and accomplished cosmeticians, estheticians and stylists, the caliber you would only expect to find in a metropolitan area, at Serenity in the Mountains.

18. TAKE IN A SHOW

Immerse yourself in the culture of the area at Blue Ridge Community Theater. This cozy community theater offers quality productions, live music, and a robust children’s program. The 2020 line-up includes the first ever Blue Ridge Film Festival, surprisingly saucy comedies, musicals, and even a sweet summer farce!

19. SCENIC DRIVES

Mother Nature’s landscape specialist (shall we call her Flora?) takes a particular interest in altering our mountainscape on a quarterly basis, cloaking it in very different hues, depths of foliage, and fragrances. Drive the 41 miles of Georgia’s only national scenic drive, The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway as it circles around the Chattahoochee National Forest.

20. BOOK AN ESCAPE TO BLUE RIDGE

There is just something about these mountains that is so good for the soul. Whether you want to come for a romantic getaway, to reconnect with friends and family, or to enjoy the abundant outdoor adventures, we have the perfect cabin for you!

We wish each of you and yours a prosperous year ahead filled with lots of love, exciting adventures, and many opportunities to make heartfelt memories. Happy New Year!