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March 29, 2022March 29, 2022

April 2022

The signs of spring are in full effect in Blue Ridge! April welcomes visitors traveling to beautiful Blue Ridge for Spring Break and many wonderful spring activities and events happening in and around town. Escape to Blue Ridge this spring and enjoy all our beautiful mountains have to offer!

Live Music at The Dogwood
April 1^st – April 30^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!

April 1^st: Roscoes Roadshow
April 2^nd : Jack Byron
April 15^th: Surrender Hill
April 22^nd: Robbie Litt
April 30^th: Mattie Croxton

Live Music at Bear Claw Vineyards & Winery
April 1^st – 30^th
Location: Bear Claw Vineyards

For award winning wine, live music, and food truck 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 for the weekly line-up!

Live Music at Misty Mountain Hops
April 1^st – April 30^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!

April 1^st: Gaven Graves
April 2^nd: Rusted Melody
April 8^th: Travis Bowlin
April 9^th: Dave Brown
April 15^th: Gabe Myers
April 16^th: The Stephen Busie Band
April 22^nd: Frankie Sparks
April 23^rd: Canon Tyler
April 29^th: Danny Rhea
April 30^th: Lindsay Beth Harper

Live Music at Tooney’s
April 1^st – April 29^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!

April 1^st: Aaron Walker Band
April 2^nd: Dusty Leigh w/ Special Guest Drew Plowman
April 7th – Open Mic Night
April 8th – Rosewood Grips
April 9th – Joe Olds Band
April 14th – Open Mic Night
April 29th – Saints-N-Rebels

Live Music at Hook & Eye
April 1^st – April 9^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!

April 1^st: Trevor Ciongoli
April 2^nd: Ray Labean
April 9^th: Trevor Ciongoli

Guided Hikes with the Benton McKaye Trail Association
April 1^st – April 27^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 4-5 hikes a month varying in difficulty from easy, leisurely hikes to moderately difficult hikes.

April 1^st: BMT to Rock Creek Trail in the Cherokee National Forest
April 4^th: Thunder Rock Express
April 6^th: Long Branch Connector off Aska Road to Lake Blue Ridge
April 8^th: Flat Creek Loop
April 18^th: Wildcat Creek/Turner Trail Loop
April 22^nd: BMT – Hudson Gap, out and back
April 25^th: Park Creek/Park Ridge Trails
April 27^th: Lady Slippers! Mulky Gap Blairsville

Cartecay Wine Run 5k
April 2^nd
Location: Cartecay Vineyards

Race through the beautiful hills of Cartecay Vineyards at this wonderful new event! Walk or run this course and admire the mountains as you go; then after have a delicious glass of wine!

Spring Arts & Crafts Sale of Blue Ridge
April 2^nd – April 3^rd
Location: Fannin County Schools Agriculture Facility

Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Young Farmer Association

Come on out to the Fannin County Schools Agriculture Facility to shop for wonderful crafts made by local artisans! Entry is free and so is parking!

Live Music at Paradise Hills
April 2^nd – April 30^th
Location: Paradise Hills, Cabins-Spa-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 Saturdays from 1pm – 5pm. Check their facebook page for an updated list of musicians.

Live Music at Grandaddy Mimm’s
April 2^nd – April 23^rd
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!

April 2^nd: Mountain Breeze
April 9^th: Elliott Sperin
April 16^th: Music Bingo
April 23^rd: Curtis & Kim Jones from Mountain Gypsy Music

Live Music at Grumpy Old Men Brewing
April 7^th – 15^th
Location: Grumpy Old Men Brewing

Photo Courtesy of Grumpy Old Men Brewing

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!

April 7^th: Karaoke Thursday
April 8^th: Lindsay Beth Harper
April 14^th: Karaoke Thursday
April 15^th: Travis Bowlin

Thursday Fun Runs at the Riverwalk
April 7^th – 28^th
Location: Riverwalk Shops

Photo Courtesy of the Riverwalk Run Club!

Partake in a fun run every Thursday night at 5:30pm with the Riverwalk Run Club! 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!

The Play That Goes Wrong
April 7^th – 24^th
Location: Blue Ridge Community Theater

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Community Theater

Come see this hilarious play about actors trying to make it through a disastrous opening night! Will they make it through to the final curtain call? Find out at Blue Ridge Community Theater’s production of ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’. Shows are Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. The show runs now till April 24th, call the box office at 706-632-9191 for tickets!

Live Music at Cartecay Vineyards
April 9^th
Location: Cartecay Vineyards

Sip on delicious wine at Cartecay Vineyards 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!

April 9^th: Jesse Black

The Copper Express – Easter Train
April 9^th
Location: The Copper Express

The Copper Express is back with the Easter Train! On April 9^th this fun Easter celebration will have an Easter train ride, goodies, and a meeting & photo with the Easter bunny! Children are $6 and adults are $9.

Justin Moore
April 9^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Chart-topping, country music powerhouse Justin Moore will be taking over the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds on April 9th at 7pm! And opening for Justin Moore is Thomas Fountain. Tickets are $55+ handling.

Stand Up Comedy Tour
April 15^th
Location: Paradise Hills Winery

Get ready for a night of laughs at the Stand Up Comedy Tour at Paradise Hills Winery. Top-notch travelling comedians will make you laugh all night long! Grab a glass of wine or a beer and let the laughter flow!

Chimps Rock
April 16^th – 17^th
Location: Project Chimps

Come see the chimps and take a guided tour of the Project Chimp sanctuary. Kids can also paint rocks with sweet messages for the chimps. For $10 children will receive an 45 – 60 minute guided tour, a rock to paint, a chance to see chimps close up at one of the viewing windows, and one adult ticket included.

Easter Egg Hunt at the Groovy Zoo
April 16^th
Location: The Zoo Groovy Yard Art

Come to the fun and unique Groovy Zoo in McCaysville, GA that’s covered in metal, plastic, and wooden zoo animals. And this year they’ll be having their first ever Easter Egg Hunt! There will be over 1000 eggs to find, all with prizes! The best find is one of the golden eggs!

27^th Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt
April 16^th
Location: St. Luke’s Church

Join St. Luke’s in Blue Ridge for their 27^th Annual Egg Hunt! The fun kicks off at 1pm with children of all ages welcome! Afterwards, prizes will be awarded to those who find the prize eggs and refreshments will be served.

Chris Janson
April 16^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Platinum-selling Country music recording artist, multi-instrumentalist, and award-winning singer/songwriter Chris Janson will be back at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds on April 16^th at 7pm! And special guests Ray Fulcher & Shane Profitt will be opening for Chris Janson as well! Tickets are $47+ handling.

The Rhododendron Festival
April 22^nd – April 30^th
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 22^nd – May 22^nd.

Cheers for Chimps at Bin 322
April 22^nd
Location: Bin 322

Come on out to Bin 322 from noon – 9pm to support Project Chimps. Your $25 ticket will include a sampling of Bin 322 featured African wine, a Project Chimps glass, and a vegan dark chocolate to go with it. There will also be special African vegan dishes available to purchase as well as live music.

Georgia Mountain Classics Cruise Ins
April 22^nd
Location: Dairy Queen / DQ Grill & Chill, Blue Ridge

Admire a selection of classic cars at this free event happening on the 4^th 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!

Mile Long Yard Sale
April 22^nd – April 23^rd
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Stock up on home décor, furniture, knick-knacks, and so much more at the Mile Long Yard Sale at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee. Come shop 1 mile worth of treasures! Admission & parking is free!

2^nd Annual S.T.E.A.M Festival
April 23^rd
Location: Blue Ridge Farmers Market

Photo Courtesy of Fannin County High School

Come support Fannin County High School and their 2^nd Annual S.T.E.AM Festival at the Blue Ridge Farmers Market. The local students will be showing off their many talents with live musical and drama performances, as well as arts & crafts for sale. There will also be a community partners table and food & drinks for sale. Admire our local students works from 10am – 4pm.

Trout Trot 5K
April 23^rd
Location: Riverwalk Shops

Photo Courtesy of Riverwalk Shops

Run 3.1 miles through 2 states! The Riverwalk Trout Trot 5K takes place in the beautiful twin cities of McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN. Food, drinks, and music will be ready for your enjoyment before and after the race. Come on out and get ready to RACE!

Memory Lane Classic Car Show
April 29^th – April 30^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

If you are a car lover this event is for you! There will be cool cars, live music, arts & crafts, food trucks, a Swap Meet, auction, raffle, and so much more at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! Entry to this great event is $10 a person and children 12 & under are free!

Movie Night at Deep Root Orchard
April 29^th
Location: Deep Root Orchard

Watch a free movie under the stars at Deep Root Orchard. The movie is “The Goonies” and starts at 8:30pm. 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!

Blue Ridge Trout and Outdoor Adventures Festival
April 30^th
Location: Downtown City Park

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Trout and Outdoor Adventures Festival

The Blue Ridge Trout and Outdoor Adventures Festival is back for the 5^th year in a row and bigger than ever! Learn all about fly fishing from dozens of local guides. There will even be outdoor activities to try out like a climbing wall, a mountain bike course, axe throwing, gem mining, trout fishing and more! After your adventures shop for beautiful outdoor art made by local artists and have some food & drink in the beer garden. You won’t want to miss out on all the fun!

Blue Ridge Soap Box Derby
April 30^th
Location: Fannin County Middle School

Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Soap Box Derby

Watch the annual Blue Ridge Soap Box Derby at Fannin County Middle School! It’s going to be an afternoon of fun, with all profits going to STEM education in Fannin County Schools. Interested drivers should register by April 15^th.

Josh Turner
April 30^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Country music star Josh Turner will be back at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds performing all of his biggest hits like, “Your Man,” “Would You Go With Me,” “Why Don’t We Just Dance,” and “All Over Me,” and songs from his latest record “A Country State of Mind.” And opening for Josh Turner is Mo Pitney! It’s going to be an awesome night of country music! Tickets are $47+ handling.

January 10, 2022September 9, 2023

Blue Ridge Fun Each Month

There is so much fun to be had in Blue Ridge all year long! Because there is always something happening in town it can be hard to narrow down when it’s the best time to Escape to Blue Ridge. We’re here to help! We’ve comprised a list of 12 seasonal activities and events for you and your family to partake in, one for each month of the year!

January: Discover Bigfoot

Head inside & stay warm during the cold month of January by paying a visit to Bigfoot himself at the Expedition: Bigfoot Museum! There you will learn all about the mysterious creature that is said to wander the forests of North Georgia. Expedition:Bigfoot holds the country’s largest display of genuine Bigfoot artifacts like photos and sketches, sighting maps, life-sized exhibits, and the World’s only Bigfoot Research and Tech Vehicle. There’s so much to see at this family-fun, quirky gem of a museum!

February: Fire & Ice Chili Cookoff & Craft Beer Festival

Embrace the cold at Blue Ridge’s 11th Annual Fire & Ice Chili Cookoff & Craft Beer Festival! This year’s event takes place February 19th from 12pm-4pm and will have all kinds of winter fun! There will be ice sculptures and live music, as well as chili and craft beer to keep you warm & toasty from the cold mountain air. Help determine the winner of “The Peoples Choice Award” chili by purchasing taster tickets for $10. Sample the competition and pick your favorite to win! And be sure to take some time to admire the beautiful display of award-winning ice sculptures from the National Ice Carving Champion Rock On Ice. You’ll even get a chance to see how the process works by watching ice sculpting demonstrations. You won’t want to miss out on this great winter event, so bundle up and join us for the fun!

March: Shop & Eat Local

March is a great time to hit the downtown area because it’s not too busy! You’ll easily be able to visit all of your favorite shops & get in for dinner at some of the best spots in town like Chester’s, The Black Sheep, or Harvest on Main. Discover unique finds at the shops downtown and stock up on souvenirs from your Blue Ridge adventure. Check out Pezrok for cool rock formations and handcrafted furniture to bring back or pay a visit to Blue Ridge Olive Oil Company to bring some Blue Ridge flavor home with you! After a busy day of shopping and dining be sure to end your day with dessert from Mona Lisa’s Dessert House, The Sweet Shoppe, or with a Rum Cake from The Rum Cake Lady.

April: Take a Scenic Drive

As the weather warms up and spring finally arrives in the mountains there’s no better time to take a scenic drive! Bring the whole family and drive through winding mountain roads where you’ll admire the beauty all around you. Flowers will begin to pop up, the Blue Ridge Mountains will be in their full blue color, and the drive will be alive with nature. There’s no better way to celebrate the end of winter than by taking in the beautiful views. Follow our scenic drive blog for the perfect routes: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/5-scenic-north-georgia-overlooks/

May: Spring Arts in the Park

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association

Come celebrate the beautiful weather and local artists at the annual Spring Arts in the Park event! This year the popular event, hosted by the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, takes place May 28th & 29th, for the holiday weekend. Typically the family-friendly event draws almost 20,000 people to the Downtown City Park of Blue Ridge! And with over 170+ vendor booths for various artists, exhibitors, and food vendors there’s so much fun for everyone! And this 46th year of the Spring Arts in the Park will be no different! Admission is $5 and children 12 & under are free!

June: Explore the Trails

With summer arriving there’s no better time to hit the trails! Explore miles and miles worth of hiking trails that will take you through some of the most naturally beautiful places in the state! Discover stunning waterfalls standing at a few hundred feet tall, be brave and walk across the swinging bridge, push yourself and climb to mountain peaks, and go for peaceful hikes along rivers and lakes. There’s so much waiting for you on the trails in Blue Ridge! Learn about a few of our favorite hikes here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/8-blue-ridge-hiking-trails/

July: Hit the Lake

Beat the summer heat and take to the waters of Lake Blue Ridge! Whether you’re cruising on a boat, splashing in the water, or sunbathing on the sands of Morganton Point; Lake Blue Ridge is the place to be for the summer! Lake Blue Ridge Marina is a great starting point to prep for your lake day adventures. They have boat rentals and all the supplies you need to get out on the water. And after a long day on the lake be sure to drop by the marina again at The Boat Dock Bar & Grill for great food, drinks, live music, and a beautiful view of Lake Blue Ridge. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a busy summer day. The fun on Lake Blue Ridge goes on all summer long but one of our favorite times to be out on the water is the 4th of July! See fireworks light up the night sky and reflect off the lake for the annual “Fire in the Sky” fireworks display. The fireworks are shot off over the Lake Blue Ridge dam and can be viewed by boat or along the shore. It’s become many visitors and locals alike favorite annual tradition!

August: Go for a White Water Rafting Adventure

The end of summer is the height of white water rafting season! Gear up for an adventure of a lifetime as you paddle your way through the rapids of the Ocoee River. The Ocoee River is located just over the border in Tennessee and is THE place to go for whitewater rafting. The upper part of the river was even used during the 1996 Olympics for their whitewater events! Check out Ocoee Rafting, the oldest outfitter on the Ocoee, Rolling Thunder River Company, or the Wildwater to start your adventure. Talented and trained staff will help guide you safely through the rapids. If you’re brave enough to give it a go, it will be an experience that you won’t soon forget!

September: Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival

Every year Downtown Blue Ridge prepares for the Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival! As the weather starts to get cooler and the leaves begin to change it’s the perfect time to come together to enjoy some great music and delicious food! The day is always filled with a great lineup of talented artists and great local food vendors. The event typically takes place mid September so stay tuned for the date!

October: Pick Apples at Mercier’s

There’s nothing quite like fall in Blue Ridge! The weather is perfect and the mountains are aglow with the beautiful fall leaves that cover the trees. And what says fall more than apple picking? Mercier Orchards has quickly become a favorite spot in town for not only the apples but other great aspects as well, like their winery & hard cidery, the marketplace, farm tours, and of course their amazing fried pies of every flavor imaginable! At Mercier’s come for their U-Pick events where you can pick your apples straight from the tree. Pick the best ones and then bring them home with you for a delicious and healthy snack or bake them into a scrumptious pie! Join in the fall fun at Mercier’s all season long!

November: Light Up Blue Ridge & McCaysville

Photo Courtesy of @hiddencreekcabinblueridgega

Ring in the holiday season with these two great Christmas events! On Friday after Thanksgiving Downtown Blue Ridge holds a special Blue Friday event with store discounts, food vendors, strolling entertainment, the opening of The Gingerbread Village, and lots of Christmas cheer! Then the following day Santa comes to town! There will be more vendors, a Christmas Parade, photos with Santa, and beautiful lights around town. And more holiday fun awaits you in McCaysville! They have shopping, dining, pictures with Santa, Christmas lights all along the river, and their famous tree lighting. There’s no better way to get in the holiday spirit than attending one (or both) of these great festive events!

December: Ride the Holiday Express

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a treat all year long but especially during the holiday season when it transforms into the Holiday Express! On this special, hour-long train ride you’ll sing along to holiday music, listen to the story of The Night Before Christmas, drink hot chocolate, munch on delicious goodies, and get the chance to meet Santa. Kids will also get a candy cane, jingle bell, and activity packet. This is a great family-friendly activity perfect for the holidays, but be sure to get your tickets in advance because they sell out quickly!

No matter the season there’s fun for everyone in Blue Ridge! We hope you’ll choose us for your next mountain adventure & Escape to Blue Ridge!

December 1, 2021January 24, 2022

December 2021

‘Tis the season to celebrate in the mountains! The crisp weather is perfect for shopping downtown, enjoying outdoor activities and then relaxing in the hot tub or by the crackling fire at the cabin! Come stay with us this month and check out the upcoming events below!

Holiday Express 2021
Dec 1 – Dec 23
Location: Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Take a ride on the Santa Express and enjoy hearing a Christmas story, singing Christmas songs, and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Every child will receive a traditional Christmas bell, a candy cane, and a memory they won’t soon forget!

Holiday Show & Sale
Dec 1 – Dec 18
Location: Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association will have a variety of art and handcrafted items for sale, all created from their member artists. Find everything you need for the holiday season Tuesday – Sunday, December 1st – December 18th!

Live Music
Dec 1- Dec 31
Locations: Tooneys Music Venue

Come on out for live music at Tooney’s HUGE music venue select 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!

Mountain Country Christmas in Lights
Dec 1 – Dec 23
Location: Georgia Mountains Fairgrounds

Visit the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds for a Winter Walk through thousands and thousands of lights and exhibits! Visit Poinsettia Place, Candy Cane Lane, Santa’s Workshop, Toyland, Frosty’s Trail and many more light exhibits. There will be live music, arts and craft vendors, food, and most important…SANTA!!! Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 6pm – 9pm. $6 for adults and children under 12 are FREE!!!

Four Old Broads at Christmas
Dec 1 – Dec 12
Location: Blue Ridge Community Theater

Come see Blue Ridge Community Theater’s comedic play ‘Four Old Broads at Christmas’! The play follows four old ladies who are ready for a new and fun vacation! With the help of a retired Elvis impersonator the ladies try to sneak away to the Sassy Seniors Caribbean Cruise! But will they get to go on the vacation of their dreams? Find out! Shows are Thursday – Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2pm; and runs from November 18th through December 12th.

2021 Tour of Trees
Dec 1 – 31
Location: Union County Community Center

The Blairsville-Union County Community Center is transformed into a winter wonderland for the whole month of December. Bring your family and friends and enjoy an amazing display of trees, lights, wreaths, and decorations. This is a perfect place to get your holiday photos! Admission is FREE!

Live Music
Dec 2 -Dec 18
Location: Grumpy Old Men Brewery

Stop by Grumpy Old Men Brewery select Fridays 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!

December 2nd, 16th – Karaoke
December 3rd – Surrender Hill
December 10th – Travis Bowlin
December 17th – Doctor Paul
December 18th – SaturdayOke

Blairsville Holiday Stop & Shop
Dec 2 – 3
Location: Pat Haralson Memorial Civic Center

Photo Courtesy of Blairsville Holiday Stop & Shop

If you are needing a special gift for a special family member or friend, then check out the Blairsville Holiday Stop & Shop! There will be over 50 home-based business vendors (Independent Consultants) there to cover all your shopping needs.

Holiday in the Park – Winter Wonderland
Dec 3
Location: Fannin County Recreation Dept.

Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Recreation Dept

A Winter Wonderland in Blue Ridge! Enjoy Elf hunts, Santa pictures, craft kits, hot chocolate and Santa himself will arrive by Helicopter!

Copperhill Kiwanis Club Annual Christmas Parade
Dec 4
Location: Downtown McCaysville & Copperhill

Photo Courtesy of Kiwanis Club of Copperhill

This annual event in Copperhill & McCaysville provides a fun and celebratory atmosphere for family and friends! Occurring on the first Saturday in December each year, this parade features a myriad of floats and high school marching bands. Come and support the Copperhill Kiwanis Club! The parade begins at 2pm and ends at 4pm. This year’s theme is a Centennial Christmas. At 6pm will be the lighting of the tree ceremony and music.

Christmas in Ducktown
Dec 4
Location: Downtown Ducktown, TN

Just over the Georgia line, Ducktown, Tennessee will hold a Christmas event complete with a parade, tree lighting, cookie decorating, music, and a visit from Santa.

Kris Kringle Mountain Market
Dec 4
Location: Union County Farmers Market

Photo of the Union County Farmers Market

Enjoy a visit to the European Outdoor Holiday Market right here in the North Georgia Mountains! Music, children’s area. More than 75 vendors with produce, arts/crafts, and delicious food creations.

St. Luke’s Annual Christmas Bazaar
Dec 4
Location: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church

Photo Courtesy of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church will hold its annual Christmas Bazaar and Silent Auction from 9am to 3pm. Taking place across from the Blue Ridge Kiwanis Club Fairground, this event will feature original art works, matted reproductions, knitted items, handmade birdhouses, note-cards, pottery, and handcrafted Christmas decorations! Baked goods, homemade jams, jellies, pickles, and other sweets and treats will also be available!

Christmas on the Square and Parade
Dec 4
Location: Downtown Blairsville

Photo Courtesy of Visit Downtown Blairsville

Blairsville will hold a Christmas event complete with a parade, tree lighting, Christmas caroling, and pictures with Santa.

Christmas Tour of Homes
Dec 5
Location: Blue Ridge Area

Christmas Tour of Homes is hosted by the Fannin County Family Connection. The tour includes 6 beautifully decorated homes and holiday refreshments. Tickets are available at online at www.fannin.gafcp.org. All proceeds are used to fund Drug & Alcohol outreach programs and the food pantry at Family Connection.

Live Music
Dec 9 – Dec 31
Location: Hook & Eye Rooftop Bar

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

December 9th, 23rd – Andrew Chastain
December 10th, 17th – Trevor Ciongoli
December 24th, 31st – Rusted Melody

Sounds Like Christmas – Brasstown Ringers
Dec 11
Location: First United Methodist Church

If you haven’t seen hand bells rung, go! The sounds are so resonant, pure, and uplifting. The Brasstown Ringers are in Blue Ridge on December 11 at 7pm. Don’t miss them!

Christmas Kick Off – Sunday Funday Holiday Singalong Party
Dec 12
Location: The Dogwood

Start your holiday season off right for a Sunday Funday Holiday Singalong Party at one of our favorite hot spots in Blue Ridge, The Dogwood! Special guest musicians, holiday classic songs, fun cover tunes, and maybe even some crowd participation and karaoke fun!

Sawyer Brown & Exile
Dec 18
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Sawyer Brown with Exile are coming to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! You might remember these bands from the 70s & 80s, but their songs are timeless, and they are still rocking! A concert on vacation is just another great way to make lasting memories!

New Year’s Eve Party
Dec 31
Location: Tooneys Music Venue

Welcome 2022 in with free live music performances by The Wandering Willows & One For the Road! What better way to ring in the New Year with good drinks, good friends, and a lot of fun at Tooney’s in McCaysville!

Joy to the World
All Season Long
Location: Across the World

To every household near and far, we hope that regardless of your beliefs, you and yours are filled with the merriment and joy of the season. Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Happy Kwanzaa! Happy Festivus!

February 17, 2021September 9, 2023

Schoolcation

With times being what they are many of us are working from home and doing virtual school as well. We know that constantly being cooped up in the house can get old really fast, so we invite you and the family to come escape with us!

Since everything is online anyways, who says you have to do it at your home? Bring your work and virtual school with you and come to your Blue Ridge home away from home for a change of scenery. You can still get everything accomplished but you can do it while looking at beautiful mountains or relaxing by the fire! Then after the work is finished unwind with fun activities all around Blue Ridge!

Change of Scenery

With over a year in these crazy times, we can all agree that we are pretty tired of being cooped up in the house all day looking at the same four walls. Plus, there is not much variation in our everyday routines. Wake up, virtual school, homework, dinner, and bedtime. It can be hard for adults to keep focused when you’re doing the same thing over and over, and it’s especially challenging for kids.

In fact, many adults and kids alike have developed mental health issues being isolated from the rest of the world and not having our regular socialization opportunities. And always trying to find new and wild ideas to keep yourself and the kids entertained is a chore in itself. We know that you and the kids still have work to do but why not do it somewhere else, like in Blue Ridge? The fresh change of scenery will be just what your family needs to feel renewed and focused once more. Getting out of the house and somewhere new can also help with mental health. It’ll be a much-needed getaway for the whole family!

Spacious Cabins

At Escape to Blue Ridge we pride ourselves on our spacious cabins that are stocked with all the best amenities. Everyone will have their own space to spread out and get their work done during the day.

Work on the back porch overlooking the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains or inside by the cozy fire or even lounging on one of the cabin’s many comfy beds. Wherever you choose to work you can be sure you won’t be distracted and will be able to fully focus on the task at hand. After school is finished, have the kids take advantage of the game room where they can play foosball, air hockey, and board games to their heart’s content. Then enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal in the beautiful, spacious kitchen. After dinner head outside for a bonfire and eat lots of s’mores! With amenities just like this and more, you and the family will be set for your stay!

Get Outdoors

One of the great parts about Blue Ridge, especially in these times, is it’s easy access to so many wonderful outdoor activities! After being cooped up in the house for months you’ll love a chance to get outside and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

During breaks and after school grab the family to explore countless hiking trails, rivers and streams, waterfalls, mountain peaks, and more! The possibilities are endless! Though one thing is for sure, whatever your outdoor adventures entail, you’ll enjoy escaping the world and being one with nature. That’s just the way life was meant to be lived!

After School Fun

When the school day is done there’s lots of fun to be had in Blue Ridge for kids of all ages! Unwind and have a blast with fun activities the whole family will enjoy!

-Expedition Bigfoot

Let the kids come face to face with none other than Bigfoot himself at Expedition BigFoot: The Sasquatch Museum. Explore the museum to find all sorts of artifacts, life sized exhibits, photos and maps of Bigfoot sightings, the Bigfoot research and Tech Vehicle, and so much more! Not only is the museum a blast for kids but it’s educational too. It’s the perfect place for a fun filled, family outing!

-Hikes to Waterfalls & Swinging Bridge

Take advantage of the outdoors and go for a hike to one of Blue Ridge’s waterfalls or the Toccoa Swinging Bridge. They’ll love getting a chance to go outside and explore. With so many kids nowadays attached at the hip to electronics this will be the perfect opportunity to get them out and enjoying nature. Be sure to take some great family photos while you’re out hiking as well!

-Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Most kids simply adore trains, it’s just in their nature. So why not fulfill that love by taking them on a scenic train ride through the beautiful Blue Ridge? They’ll have an absolute blast choo-chooing along with the train as it rolls down the tracks. And if you’re visiting during the Christmas season you and the kids can even hop on a special “Santa Express” ride. There’s a reason people from far and wide love riding on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway; it’s a great experience the whole family can enjoy.

-Lilly Pad Village

Kids love to interact and use their hands, so the Lily Pad Village is just the place for them. There’s something for kids of all ages like gem mining, fishing, mini golf, and more! The gem mining experience is fun, interactive, and educational. Dig through the trays to find beautiful gemstones and the staff will even provide you with educational information on what you’ve found. Your kids will come home with a full stash of rocks and gemstones!

-Mercier Orchards

Mercier Orchards is by far one of our visitors favorite attractions. Famous for their U-Pick events your kids will get a chance to roam the orchard finding the best apples. And Mercier doesn’t just grow apples; they grow strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and peaches as well, so there’s always something tasty to pick. Also enjoy some of their delicious baked goods and meals from the bakery and market cafe. There’s nothing like a warm, fried apple pie to end the day and we dare you to not indulge on their apple cider donuts!

-Horseback

Another thing that kids love is horses! Not only does it teach them horsemanship, but horseback riding is a great way to build up self confidence and see the world from a new perspective. So take the kids on a horseback riding excursion through the forest, past lakes and rivers, and gaze up at the stunning mountains all around you. It’s the perfect adventure the whole family will love!

-Sweets

And every kid of course has a sweet tooth, so be sure to take them for the best desserts in town! Enjoy cakes and cookies at The Sweet Shoppe or Mona Lisa’s Dessert House. Or fudge and ice cream at The Chocolate Express. The sugar possibilities are endless and this writer’s mouth is watering just thinking about all the local sweets!

-Activity Book

Another great way to get the kids out of the house is with our Kids Activity Book! Send them on a scavenger hunt to find all kinds of outdoor items. Or have them check off a bingo box for each place they’ve visited. And even have them help Ricky the Raccoon with identifying forest creatures, counting, and more. It’s a great way to get kids learning and having fun while they do it! Stop by our Property Management offices to pick up a copy or download your own copy: www.escapetoblueridge.com/blue-ridge-georgia-activity-booklet.pdf

August 16, 2020August 22, 2020

How Did the Blue Ridge Mountains Form?

When we say the old Blue Ridge mountains, we mean it! As part of the Appalachian mountain range, the Blue Ridge mountains are the second oldest range in the whole world. Over 1 BILLION years ago, shifts in our Earth’s tectonic plates caused the Blue Ridge mountains to form in a system of peaks and valleys that span eight states!

Sometimes it’s a little confusing that you can see the Blue Ridge mountains in other states besides Georgia but these mountains are vast. There is a Northern section that includes Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. The Southern section includes West Virginia, Tennessee, North & South Carolina, and of course right here in Blue Ridge, Georgia! Our particular section of the range is known as the Appalachian Mountain Range and we are a part of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

They Really are Blue!

Have you ever wondered why these mountains are called Blue Ridge? If you catch any section of the range at the right time of day, you’ll see that the mountains have a distinctive blue color. The forests that cover these rocky protrusions are predominately made up of spruce and fir trees and they emit isoprene into the atmosphere creating the blue hue!

The Blue Ridge Mountains can span across 60 miles in some locations. While the tallest mountain in this system is Mount Mitchell in North Carolina rising at 6,684 feet high, just 30 minutes from downtown Blue Ridge is the tallest peak in Georgia, Brasstown Bald rising at 4,784 feet above sea level! Here you can see 4 states!

Early Inhabitants

The Native Americans, and specifically the Cherokee, lived in the Blue Ridge area more than 12,000 years ago! The moderate climate and the character of the mountains themselves, made a perfect region for inhabitants to settle. They farmed and hunted in the valleys and mountains that they called “the Enchanted Land” until they were forced to leave on the Trail of Tears.

Two Features

One popular trail system that follow the Blue Ridge mountains all the way through Virginia is the Appalachian Trail. Hikers along the trail get the advantage of seeing the stunning untouched beauty of the mountains.

At the extreme Southern tip of the Appalachian Trail and the entire Blue Ridge mountain system is the spectacular Amicalola Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi!