Spring has sprung, the temperatures are climbing, and
everything is blooming! The last weekend in May, Memorial Day Weekend, is an
excellent time to get away from the hub bub of daily life and Escape to the Blue
Ridge Mountains to enjoy the beauty that is bursting all around us!
Extreme or Serene
There is no shortage of fun to be had around town, but if just relaxing with your favorite people (and pups) in a fabulous cabin is your idea of a good time, we totally get it. Many of our cabins are equipped with game rooms, hot tubs, fire pits, and wooded trails to explore. There is also horseback riding stables, zip lines, and whitewater rafting close by for added immersion into the wonders of Mother Nature.
Downtown Blue Ridge
In downtown Blue Ridge you’ll enjoy attending the 47th Annual Spring Arts in the Park event on Saturday and Sunday, May 27th & 28th. This Southern tradition features more than two hundred arts, crafts, and food booths for you to admire fine arts and mountain crafts. You’ll also be able to see artist’s demonstrations, hear some great music, and support the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association! The event is held rain or shine, and well-behaved leashed pets are welcome. Admission is $5 and children 12 and under are free!
Spring Arts in the Park Photo Courtesy of The Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Center
Music will be abundant in the Downtown area as well. Angry Hops Brewing, Grumpy Old Men Brewery, Copperhill Brewery, and Fannin Brewing will have live music playing. Another great spot for live music is the Boat Dock Bar & Grill, which by the way, did you know, they are a sunny spot for shady people? Check them out. They offer great views of Lake Blue Ridge, delicious food, and fantastic drinks! Last but not least, The Blue Coyote for late night music and drinks is a must stop!
Downtown Blairsville
About thirty minutes East of Blue Ridge in the town of Blairsville, you’ll encounter their annual Spring Arts, Crafts, & Music Festival. Saturday morning begins with a Memorial Day Parade and the rest of the day and all-day Sunday you can enjoy more than 200 local and regional artists. Many musicians will also be on site to entertain you and your family. There is no charge to attend, but plenty of family fun is sure to be had!
Photo Courtesy of Visit Downtown Blairsville
McCaysville/Copperhill
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Railway
If you’ve never experienced a trip on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, you should definitely consider boarding in downtown Blue Ridge and taking an enjoyable two hour ride to the revitalized cities of McCaysville, Ga and Copperhill, Tn. Yep, this is your chance to stand in two states at one time! Grab an ice cream or sweet treat at Happy Bear Ice Cream & Treats. Maybe Cuban is more your style and you prefer a Cuban coffee and empanada at the Rum Cake Lady for an afternoon treat. Pick up the latest record at Deaf Man Vinyl or a new treat for your bestfriend at Mainstreet Mutt. There is so much to explore in the Copper Basin’s twin cities!
Whatever plans you make for the holiday weekend, we hope
that you are spending it with all the ones you love creating memories and enjoying
the freedom that we get to enjoy in the great United States of America. As we
approach Memorial Day Weekend, we want to take a moment to thank all of the men
and women that have so courageously given their lives to defend this beautiful
country in which we are so fortunate to live. There is no greater sacrifice one
can make and the patriotism that these honorable souls displayed deserves our
recognition and gratitude, not just one weekend a year, but all year long. Thank
you for your service.
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!
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!
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!
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 2nd: Open Mic Night June 9th: Open Mic Night June 10th: The Comancheros with One for the Road June 16th: Open Mic Night June 17th: Jacob Bryant w/Tyler Leamon & Chase Baker
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 2nd: Thursday Karaoke June 3rd: Lindsay Beth Harper June 4th: Blue Lava June 9th: Thursday Karaoke June 10th: The Orange Walls June 11th: Paul Douglas Sanner June 16th: Thursday Karaoke June 17th: Dr. Paul June 18th: Saturday Karaoke June 23rd: Thursday Karaoke June 24th: Stephen Vaclavic June 25th: Troy Underwood June 30th: Thursday Karaoke
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.
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 3rd: Dan Foster June 4th: Rose Brown June 10th: Levi Ransom June 11th: The Stephen Busie Band June 17th: Jeremy Wells June 18th: Travis Bowlin
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 3rd: Roscoe’s Roadshow June 10th: Travis Bowlin June 11th: Lindsay Beth Harper June 17th: Surrender Hill June 18th: David Welch June 24th: Robbie Litt June 25th: Matty Croxton
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 3rd: Travis Bowlin June 17th: David Welch June 24th: Danny Rhea
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!
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!
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 3rd: Brush Creek Trail June 4th: 2022 National Trails Day June 17th: BMT: Lost Creek Section
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 3rd: Rusted Melody June 10th: Sam B June 11th: Chris Carpenter June 17th: Emma Gullo June 18th: Tom Edwards June 24th: Trailer Hippies June 25th: Dr. Paul
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 4th: Mountain Breeze June 18th: Kim & Curtis Jones June 25th: River Dixon
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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 4th: Paul Arrado June 6th: Trivia June 11th: TNT June 13th: Trivia June 18th: Denise Moo June 20th: Trivia June 25th: Ray Labean June 27th: Trivia
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.
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 14th – June 30th 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!
Head to Blairsville for the 11th 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.
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.
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!
Photo Courtesy of the 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!
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 25th – June 26th 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!
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 4th 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.
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 4th – May 21st 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 4th: Lady Slipper Hike BMT at Weaver Creek in Blue Ridge May 9th: BMT from Thunder Rock Campground May 20th: Amadahy Trail – Dog friendly hike May 21st: Memorial Hike for Tom Wright
Live Music at Tooney’s May 5th – May 27th 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!
May 5th: Open Mic Night May 6th: Whiskey Rose Band May 7th: The Chris Key Band May 12th: Open Mic Night May 13th: Canon Tyler & The Spare Parts May 14th: Smokey Jones & the Three Dollar Pistols May 19th: Open Mic Night May 20th: Them Dirty Roses w/ One For The Road May 21st: Whiskey, Stills & Mash May 26th: Open Mic Night May 27th: Rosewood Grips
Thursday Fun Runs at the Riverwalk May 5th – May 26th Location: Riverwalk Shops
Photo Courtesy of McCaysville 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 May 5th – May 26th Location: Horseshoe Bend Park
Photo Courtesy of 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!
Blue Ridge Adventure Race May 6th – 7th Location: The Downtown Pavilion and Bandstand
Photo Courtesy of AR Georgia
Adventure your way through some of the most beautiful areas in Blue Ridge at the 25th 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 6th – May 28th Location: Misty Mountain Hops
Photo Courtesy of 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!
May 6th: Doctor Paul Constantine May 7th: Steve Baskin May 13th: Jennifer Lynn Simpson May 14th: Ray LaBean May 20th: Scott Stambaugh May 21st: Steven Push May 27th: Steve Vaclavik May 28th: Canon Tyler
Live Music at The Dogwood May 6th – 28th Location: The Dogwood
Photo Courtesy of 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!
May 6th: Roscoe’s Roadshow May 7th: Daisy Chain May 13th: Travis Bowlin May 20th: Megan Fowler May 21st: Wyatt Espalin May 27th: Robbie Litt May 28th: Matty Croxton
Live Music at Hook & Eye May 6th – 13th Location: Hook & Eye Rooftop Bar
Photo Courtesy of the Hook & Eye
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 6th & 13th: Trevor Ciongoli
The Rhododendron Festival May 6th – 22nd Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of the 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 7th – 8th Location: East Ellijay
Photo Courtesy of Pick 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 7th 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 7th 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 7th – May 29th Location: Paradise Hills, Cabins-Spa-Farm Winery
Photo Courtesy of Paradise Hills
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, along with May 27th from 4pm – 8pm and May 29th from 1pm – 5pm for a fun filled Memorial Day weekend.
May 7th: Ryan Little Eagle May 14th: Tom Edwards May 21st: Dr. Paul May 27th: Trailer Hippies May 28th: Stephan Busie Band (Great American Pie Festival $25 ticket) May 29th: Scott Stambough
Tommy Townsend’s Southern Man Album Release Party May 7th 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 8th Location: Bin 322
Photo Courtesy of 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 12th – 29th 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 13th – 15th 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 13th at 7pm, the 14th at 2pm & 7pm, and the 15th 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 13th – May 27th Location: Boat Dock Bar & Grill at Lake Blue Ridge Marina
Photo Courtesy of the Lake Blue Ridge Marina
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!
May 13th: Danny Rhea May 20th: Travis Bowlin May 27th: David Welch
Georgia Mountain Classics Annual Car Show May 14th Location: Downtown Blue Ridge City Park
Photo Courtesy of Georgia Mountain Classics Car Club
The Classic Car Show is back in Downtown Blue Ridge! Drop by May 14th 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 14th Location: The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of 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 14th at 7pm! He’ll be performing some of his biggest hits and songs from his newest album ‘Same Truck’.
Spring Festival May 21st 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 21st.
2nd Annual Paws for Celebration May 21st 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 21st Location: Cartecay Vineyards
Photo Courtesy of 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 21st Location: Haralson Memorial Civic Center
Photo Courtesy of Joshua Warriors
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 27th 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 27th Location: Deep Root Orchard
Photo Courtesy of Deep Roots 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 27th – May 29th Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of the 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!
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Art Association
The Spring Arts in the Park is back for it’s 46th 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 28th Location: Blairsville, GA
Photo Courtesy of the American Legion Post 121, Blairsville
Live Music at Grandaddy Mimm’s May 28th Location: Grandaddy Mimm’s
Photo Courtesy of Grandaddy Mimms
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 28th: Lucas Smith
The Spring Arts, Crafts & Music Festival May 28th – 29th 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!
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 1st – April 30th Location: The Dogwood
Photo Courtesy of 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 1st: Roscoes Roadshow April 2nd : Jack Byron April 15th: Surrender Hill April 22nd: Robbie Litt April 30th: Mattie Croxton
Live Music at Bear Claw Vineyards & Winery April 1st – 30th Location: Bear Claw Vineyards
Photo Courtesy of 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 1st – April 30th Location: Misty Mountain Hops
Photo Courtesy of 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 1st: Gaven Graves April 2nd: Rusted Melody April 8th: Travis Bowlin April 9th: Dave Brown April 15th: Gabe Myers April 16th: The Stephen Busie Band April 22nd: Frankie Sparks April 23rd: Canon Tyler April 29th: Danny Rhea April 30th: Lindsay Beth Harper
Live Music at Tooney’s April 1st – April 29th Location: Tooney’s Music Venue
Photo Courtesy of Tooney’s
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 1st: Aaron Walker Band April 2nd: 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 1st – April 9th Location: Hook & Eye Rooftop Bar
Photo Courtesy of the Hook & Eye
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 1st: Trevor Ciongoli April 2nd: Ray Labean April 9th: Trevor Ciongoli
Guided Hikes with the Benton McKaye Trail Association April 1st – April 27th 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 1st: BMT to Rock Creek Trail in the Cherokee National Forest April 4th: Thunder Rock Express April 6th: Long Branch Connector off Aska Road to Lake Blue Ridge April 8th: Flat Creek Loop April 18th: Wildcat Creek/Turner Trail Loop April 22nd: BMT – Hudson Gap, out and back April 25th: Park Creek/Park Ridge Trails April 27th: Lady Slippers! Mulky Gap Blairsville
Cartecay Wine Run 5k April 2nd Location: Cartecay Vineyards
Photo Courtesy of 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 2nd – April 3rd Location: Fannin County Schools Agriculture Facility
Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Young Farmer Association
Live Music at Paradise Hills April 2nd – April 30th Location: Paradise Hills, Cabins-Spa-Farm Winery
Photo Courtes of Paradise Hills
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 2nd – April 23rd Location: Grandaddy Mimm’s
Photo Courtesy of Grandaddy Mimms
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 2nd: Mountain Breeze April 9th: Elliott Sperin April 16th: Music Bingo April 23rd: Curtis & Kim Jones from Mountain Gypsy Music
Live Music at Grumpy Old Men Brewing April 7th – 15th 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 7th: Karaoke Thursday April 8th: Lindsay Beth Harper April 14th: Karaoke Thursday April 15th: Travis Bowlin
Thursday Fun Runs at the Riverwalk April 7th – 28th 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 7th – 24th 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 9th 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 9th: Jesse Black
The Copper Express – Easter Train April 9th Location: The Copper Express
Photo Courtesy of The Copper Express
The Copper Express is back with the Easter Train! On April 9th 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 9th 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 15th Location: Paradise Hills Winery
Photo Courtesy of Paradise Hills
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 16th – 17th Location: Project Chimps
Photo Courtesy of 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 16th Location: The Zoo Groovy Yard Art
Photo Courtesy of the Groovy Zoo
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!
27th Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt April 16th Location: St. Luke’s Church
Join St. Luke’s in Blue Ridge for their 27th 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 16th Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of the 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 16th 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 22nd – April 30th Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of the 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.
Cheers for Chimps at Bin 322 April 22nd Location: Bin 322
Photo Courtesy of 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 22nd Location: Dairy Queen / DQ Grill & Chill, Blue Ridge
Photo Courtesy of Dairy Queen
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!
Mile Long Yard Sale April 22nd – April 23rd Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of the 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!
2nd Annual S.T.E.A.M Festival April 23rd Location: Blue Ridge Farmers Market
Photo Courtesy of Fannin County High School
Come support Fannin County High School and their 2nd 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 23rd 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 29th – April 30th Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of the 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 29th Location: Deep Root Orchard
Photo Courtesy of 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 30th 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 5th 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 30th 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 15th.
Josh Turner April 30th Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of the 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.
There’s no better time to hit the trails than on a beautiful spring day! The weather is absolutely perfect this time of year for a stroll through nature. Temperatures are mild, the forests are lush with greenery and flowers, and the water may be a little chilly but it can be a refreshing way to cool off after a long day of hiking. From trails just a little over a mile to challenging, multi-mile hikes there’s the perfect route for everyone.
And what do you hope to see on your journey? Peaceful babbling brooks, a tall rushing waterfall, a unique swinging bridge that dangles over the waters of the Toccoa River, or views as far as the eye can see? Blue Ridge has miles and miles of trails with everything and more to offer! So bring along your friends, family, and your favorite pup too, and get ready to explore the great outdoors! Discover the best trail for your group here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/8-blue-ridge-hiking-trails/
Ride the Rails
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Scenic Railway
Spring means that train rides are back at Blue Ridge Scenic Railway! Running from March 5th to late December the train is a favorite Blue Ridge activity. You’ll fly past mountains, rivers, and farmlands as you ride through the beautiful countryside of North Georgia. For a short and sweet adventure, take the 2-hour scenic ride but if you are looking to make the trip an all-day event why not go for the 4-hour ride? On the longer ride you’ll have a 2-hour layover in the charming sister cities McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN. Stand in two states at once on the Georgia/Tennessee border that lies between the two cities. Go for a quick shopping spree or grab a bite to eat. Then hop back on the train for another scenic journey back to Blue Ridge. Tickets are available online: https://brscenic.com/tickets/
Family-Friendly Outdoor Fun
Photo Courtesy of Ashley Williams
The kids are off of school for spring break and there’s no better way to celebrate than with some family fun in the great outdoors! One of our favorite spots for family-friendly activities is at The Lily Pad Village. One of their biggest attractions is their gem mining experience. The kiddos will love sifting through the dirt to find their own beautiful gemstones. The staff is friendly and are always ready to explain to the little ones what they’ve discovered. Not only is this experience educational but it’s also fun & rewarding because the kids can leave with a bag full of goodies.
On top of gem mining, Lily Pad Village also has fishing and mini-golf, so the fun times can last all day long! Another great outdoor activity the whole family will enjoy is horseback riding! You can go on a relaxing trail ride through the forests of North Georgia and become best friends with your horse along the way. Cowgirl Up Stables is great for new riders and Appalachian Trail Rides is always a wonderful choice as well. Giddy on up and bring the whole family along to explore Georgia on horseback!
Spring at the Orchards
Photo Courtesy of Mercier Orchards
Mercier Orchards may be known for their apples but there’s more to them than that! The orchards are incredibly beautiful during the spring because the peach and apple blossoms are in full bloom! On weekends, you can take a farm tour to learn more about Merciers and see the blossoms up close, it really is quite a sight. Pay them a visit in May for strawberry season! Pick the biggest strawberries you can find and turn them into your own delicious strawberry pie or eat them straight from the plant! Recover from your strawberry hunting with a refreshing glass of hard cider or wine, made right at Merciers. And before you leave, shop in the market for all kinds of goodies to bring home with you, and be sure to pick yourself up a fried pie from the cafe too!
Adventure
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Adventure Park
Sometimes you need a heart-pumping adventure! If you like to be dozens of feet in the air then we have just the thing for you! Navigate a challenging ropes course high up in the air at Blue Ridge Adventure Park. You’ll have 4 aerial courses to choose from with obstacles and challenges that range from moderate to extremely difficult. Make your way back to solid ground on the 125+ foot long zipline! Are you up for the challenge?
If you are all about the zipline and would rather skip the ropes course then check out Zip Line Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge. You’ll zip through the trees on over 6,000 feet of cables. You’ll feel like you’re flying as your soar past the Blue Ridge Mountains. Get ready for an adventure like no other at these two great spots!
Biking
Photo Courtesy of Pedego Electric Bikes
If you’re into mountain biking Blue Ridge is just the place for it! Weave through the winding mountain trails, with the wind in your face, and the trees zipping past. A few of our favorite trails for a ride are Jackrabbit Mountain, Bear Creek Trail, and Stanley Gap. Learn more about mountain biking in Blue Ridge here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/11-memorable-mountain-biking-trails/
Trout Time
Photo Courtesy of KC Outfitters
In Blue Ridge, we are known as the trout capital of Georgia so you’d be remiss not to head to the waters with a fishing pole in hand! Not only is the weather perfect for a day on the water but the trout supply is abundant in the spring. Our favorite spots to fish are on the Toccoa River or at the Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery.
If you’re an experienced fisher then, by all means, get out on the water and do your thing but if you need a little extra assistance that’s no problem we’ve got you covered! A few of our favorite fish-loving teams are Cohutta Fishing Company, Blue Ridge Fly Fishing School, and Noontootla Creek Farms. Take your pick but all of these teams will give you the proper guidance and techniques to help you become a fishing expert! Looking for more fishing fun? Don’t miss the Blue Ridge Trout Festival on April 30th!
Outdoor Picnics
Photo Courtesy of ExploreGeorgia.org
Nothing says spring like a delicious picnic with your family! We think one of the most beautiful spots for a picnic is at Morganton Point beside Lake Blue Ridge. Set up at one of the picnic tables or spread your blanket out on the grass and enjoy your feast as you gaze out on the waters of Lake Blue Ridge.
For more waterside spots check out the Toccoa River Park to listen to the calming sounds of the river rushing by. You can even picnic in our Downtown City Park, just pick up some to-go from one of your favorite restaurants downtown and enjoy it in the warm sunshine. Or have your picnic premade for you and eat among the apple trees with Deep Roots Orchard’s picnic special at $27 a person. Wherever you choose to picnic you’ll be in the great outdoors and able to enjoy the beautiful spring weather!
Take in a Festival
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association
Spring in Blue Ridge and the surrounding areas have so many great events worth checking out! Here’s just a few of our favorites:
The Blue Ridge Trout and Outdoor Adventures Festival: This year’s annual event takes place April 30th in our Downtown City Park. With all-new tents and exhibits, this year will be the best one yet! You can learn all about fishing, hiking, paddling, rock climbing, and more. Plus there will be plenty of craft beer, food, and music.
Easter Egg Hunt: Easter weekend will have lots of holiday activities happening around town. On Saturday, April 16th pay Deep Roots Orchard a visit for a day of Easter fun! There will be picnics, soup bean tastings, live music, blossom tours, food, a professional photographer for family portraits at the orchard, and of course an Egg Hunt! Also on Saturday is the Zoo Groovy Yard Art Easter Egg Hunt! With over 1,000 eggs hidden there will be plenty to go around! Mercier Orchards also typically hosts an Easter Egg Hunt as well. And stay tuned to our social media pages for more Easter events happening around the area!
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds events: Take a day trip over to Hiawassee, GA where they have a great line-up of events happening all spring long! They will have concerts featuring country artists Justin Moore, Chris Janson, Josh Turner, and Scotty McCreery. Every weekend from April 22nd-May 22nd you can be one with nature at the Rhododendron Festival. Stock up on all kinds of goodies at the Mile Long Yard Sale or admire cool cars at the Memory Lane Classic Car Show. Drink wine in the gardens at the 1st ever Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival. And end your spring with a Rodeo on Memorial Day weekend. Learn more about Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds great upcoming spring events & get your tickets here: https://georgiamountainfairgrounds.com/localevents
Spring Arts in the Park: Finish out your spring Memorial Day weekend (May 28th & 29th) by admiring beautiful art in Downtown Blue Ridge featuring over 175+ artists. This is the 46th year that Spring Arts in the Park has brought so many talented artists to Blue Ridge for such a great event!
No matter your spring break plans we’re happy to provide you with the perfect cabin to call home for a few days. Our cabins are not only comfortable and accommodating, but there’s fun for everyone with game rooms, hot tubs, fire pits, and more. Let us be your home base for all your spring adventures!
Spring is here and summer is just around the corner! Blue Ridge and the surrounding areas have plenty of events going on this May to make sure that your Escape to Blue Ridge is filled with great activities. Let the fun begin and check out these wonderful events happening in May!
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.
May 1st: Jess Goggins May 7th: Curtis & Kim Jones Music May 8th: Loose Shoes Duo May 9th: Ryan Davis and Tom Ladow May 14th: Trailer Hippies May 15th: The Varden May 21st: Leah Belle Faser May 22nd: Adrian Stover May 28th: Gabe Myers and Jadie Lee May 29th: Jazz Jones Legacy
Picnic beneath the apple trees all through spring and summer at Deep Roots Orchard! Bring your closest friends and family to relax under the trees. Deep Root’s will provide you with everything you need; the picnic basket, blanket, and food. All you need to bring is your wonderful self! Be sure to check out Deep Roots other group experiences like the “Special Occasion Picnic” and “Food, Folic, and Flow”. Prices start at $27 per person; call 706-492-7753 to book your picnic today!
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 Fridays and Saturday and 1pm to 4pm Sundays. You’ll feel relaxed and renewed in no time!
May 1st – Travis Bowlin May 2nd – Gregg Erwin May 7th – Barefoot Boone May 8th – Shannon York May 9th – Gerry Herndon May 14th – Danny Rhea May 15th – Buck & Oz May 16th – David Welch May 22nd – Ray LaBean May 23rd – Gerry Herndon May 28th – Danny Rhea May 29th – Travis Bowlin May 30th – Our Way Band
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 every Saturday from 1pm-5pm.
May 1st: Rhonda Funk May 8th: Trailer Hippies May 15th: Dr. Paul May 22nd: Curtis Jones May 29th: Robert Ferguson
‘Til Beth Do Us Part
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Community Theater
Head to Blue Ridge Community Theater for this comedic play all about marriage and the hilarious scenarios the characters find themselves in. The play runs Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm. Don’t miss out on the hilarity that is ‘Til Beth Do Us Part.
Calling all car lovers! Make a trip over to Hiawassee, GA for a classic car show the whole family will love. There will be music, food trucks, arts and crafts, Swap Meet, an auction, prizes, raffles, and of course lots of cars! The event runs Friday 10am-6 pm at the Memory Lane Classic Car Museum and Saturday 9am-4pm at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. It’s $10 per person and children 12 and under are free!
Bring your picnic blankets and lawn chairs for an evening of mountain music at Deep Roots Orchard. Jeff Parker and Blue Ridge Grass take the stage at 6:00pm! Concessions and good southern cooking will be sold throughout the orchard during the event. Get tickets in person, call your local United Community Bank or order online. For good southern mountain food and music stop on by!
Josh Turner Concert
Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
See multi-platinum selling, MCA Nashville country star Josh Turner in concert, at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA! Hear his chart topping hits like “Your Man”, “All Over Me”, “Would You Go With Me”, and “Why Don’t We Just Dance” all live and in person! And opening for Josh is Gina Gailey! Get tickets online or call the office at 706-896-4191!
Pickin’ In The Park
Photo Courtesy of the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce
Every Thursday night at 6:00pm, 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!
Stop by Grumpy Old Men Brewery Fridays from 3pm-6pm and Sundays 1pm- 4 pm 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!
May 7th: Travis Bowlin May 14th: Adrian Stover May 21: Gregg Erwin May 28th: Arnold Hill May 29th: The Orange Walls
Head on over to to Tooney’s Music & Bar in McCaysville, GA right by the Ocoee River for a night of fun! Every Friday and Saturday night from 6pm-11pm you can enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer and listen to some of the best live music that McCaysville has to offer! And on May 30th enjoy a special Sunday night performance from 5pm-8pm. Want to do some of your own singing? Every Thursday night is open mic night from 6pm-10pm; so, grab the mic and show off those singing chops! Enjoy a night filled with good drinks and music at Tooney’s Music & Bar!
May 7th: Adrian Stover May 8th: Dottie The Band May 21st: A. Lee Edwards May 22nd: The Remnants May 29th: Whiskey Stills & Mash May 30th: Curtis & Kim Jones
Riley Green Concert
Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
See country singer Riley Green with the Andrew Chastain Band in concert at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA. Riley Green is known for his hits like “There Was This Girl” and “In Love By Now”. You won’t want to miss this one! The show starts at 7:00pm and tickets are on sale now!
For a night of great comedy for ages 18 and up head on over to Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co. in Blairsville, GA. Your $30 ticket will give you full access to the comedy lineup and some delicious appetizers as well! Get ready to have a good laugh for the night!
Georgia Mountain Ceramic Cooking Fest
Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Head out to Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA for the 10th annual Georgia Mountain Ceramic Cooking Fest! The events hosts cooks and tasters from all over the U.S. and Canada. Sign up to be a cook or taster online! The event goes from 9am-5pm and you’ll have a blast cooking or trying dishes. Get your taste buds ready for this “eggcellent” event!
Discovery Days at Project Chimp
Photo Courtesy of Project Chimps
Chimpanzee Sanctuary! May 15th & May 16th Location: Project Chimps
Have you ever wanted to take an exclusive tour of chimpanzee sanctuary? Well now you can! On May 15th and May 16th from 10:30am-1:30pm you’ll get the chance to go behind the scenes in America’s newest, private sanctuary for chimpanzees retired from medical research. You’ll go on a 60–90-minute walking tour of the sanctuary, and you’ll likely get to see some chimps! Get your tickets online today!
Doubt: A Parable takes place in 1964 and follows the nun, Sister Aloysius who believes that Father Flynn has been molesting one of the Catholic school’s students (a 12-year old boy who is the schools only African American student). Throughout the play we’ll see Sister Aloysius monitoring the Father and eventually confronting him on what she believes to be true. Find out the truth in this serious theater experience Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2:00pm in the Black Box Theater at Blue Ridge Community Theater.
Watch a free movie under the stars at Deep Root Orchard. The movie is “O Brother Where Art Though” 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!
Head over to Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA for the rodeo! You’ll see world class contestants from all over the U.S. and Canada compete along with top-of-the-line specialty acts. Tickets are $15 a piece for adults, $10 children ages 6-12, and children 5 and under are free! The rodeo kicks off at 8pm Friday and you won’t want to miss it!
45th Annual Spring Arts in the Park
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association
Blue Ridge’s very on Annual Spring Arts in the Park festival is celebrating it’s 45th anniversary this year! You’ll shop and admire the beautiful fine arts created from over 175 juried fine arts and fine craft exhibitors, you’ll enjoy delicious food, and watch many an artists demo. Adult tickets are $5 a person and children under 12 are free! The beautiful art festival runs Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am-5:00pm. And all proceeds go to the Blue Ridge Mountains Art Association!
You never need a specific occasion to Escape to Blue Ridge, but it’s fun to plan trips around fun mountain festivals and events. With that in mind, we are here to help, with some suggestions for Blue Ridge area festivals and special events that are not to be missed this year!
The yin and yang of fire and ice is pretty compelling. Opposites attract, so they say, so this combining of hot and cold is just the thing to attract a crowd. And this festival certainly does that. Thousands are drawn to downtown Blue Ridge, regardless of the weather, to watch ice carving demonstrations and to sample chili concoctions. Some chili is hot, some is cooler, but all have tang and flavor to please a wide range of samplers. It’s a great time of year for this event, usually cool enough to bundle up, but not so cold as to be uncomfortable, but if you are cold, just find a cup of chili with some heat!
This 9th Annual music event, with a Mardi Gras Celebration, is for a good cause benefiting “Snack in a Backpack”. The event features music group the Crossroads Band, Cajun food, masks, dancing, auction, and door prizes. Tickets are $60 per person or $90 per couple for main dining and include appetizers, dinner, dessert and non-alcoholic drinks. Cash bar will be available.
Fast becoming an annual highlight in downtown Blue Ridge, you can walk in the 7th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade or just watch it anywhere along East or West Main St. Bring a float, be creative, dress festive and of course, the more green, the better!
The Georgia Knifemakers Guild presents a day of blade-related activities include bladesmithing, hawk forging, leather crafting and forge building. Watch, meet and talk with several talented bladesmiths. See what it takes to transform old discarded steel scrap metal into functional works of art. Fine craftsmen from several states attend, some collectors bring their collections to display, knifemaking supply vendors participate and others come just like to look and talk knives. This is a family oriented event open to all with no admission fees, so come join in the fun!
Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival
The Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival showcases the art of Southern storytelling with an emphasis on Appalachian stories, both traditional and contemporary. The Festival’s events include two days of outstanding storytelling performances. Workshops will be available for students and visitors to learn storytelling, speaking, and performance skills.
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association
The irony of writing is that writers can only write on their own since collaborative writing is uncommon, but they love to socialize and share the fruit of their labor, so a reason to get together is always welcome! Writers conferences and literary events like this one allow writers to showcase their work and rub elbows with other writers, and readers, who appreciate the skill it takes to produce words on a page. Readings, book signings, seminars, and receptions are all a part of this annual event that celebrates words both written and spoken.
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountains Parade of Homes
Gain inspiration for your dream home! Meet builders and tour homes that range from 1,600-square feet to 9,000-square feet. Purchase your ticket and take a self-guided tour through twenty stunning properties.
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Trout Fest & Outdoor Adventures
Trout in Georgia come in various sizes, colors and genres (native, brown, rainbow, etc). They are stocked, caught, and eaten in large numbers. And while there are several trout festivals around the state designed to help anglers learn about and appreciate one of America’s favorite fish, there is only one Official Trout Festival – and this is it. The festival includes great exhibits by outdoor organizations and businesses, education on trout fishing, entertainment, food trucks and more in downtown Blue Ridge’s City Park.
Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Apple Blossom Festival
Ellijay is apple country so no wonder an apple festival is a huge springtime attraction! Artists, crafters, music, entertainment, and children’s activities will all be there to kick off the spring season! Pet friendly and FREE admission!
An Eggfest is a gathering of Big Green Egg fans and experienced cooks from all across the country and Canada. The cooks will be showcasing their skills and talents and will be preparing their specialty recipes all day long!
Spring Arts in the Park Memorial Day Weekend Saturday & Sunday, May 23rd & 24th 10am-5pm All Over Blue Ridge
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association
Arts in the Park is a spring kickoff to the festival season in Blue Ridge and it’s a time when artists of all types fill the expansive Blue Ridge Downtown City Park with activities, performances and even some dancing. More than 200 juried arts, crafts and food booths are featured. This event is often recognized as one of the Top 20 Events by the Southeastern Tourism Society. The Festival is held rain or shine. Pets are welcome as long as they are leashed and well-behaved.
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!
Photo Courtesy of the Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games
There’s nothing quite like the sound of bagpipes on a lovely summer day – and you’ll hear and see that and more at the Blairsville Scottish Festival. Enjoy pipe and drum bands, a parade of tartans, border collie demonstrations, amateur athletics, children’s games, and more as Blairsville celebrates its Scottish heritage!
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountains Wine & Jazz Festival
What is it about wine and jazz? You almost can’t have one without the other. Well, you can, of course. But why would you want to? Blue Ridge has made it easy to enjoy both at a festival that’s as naturally occurring as jazz and wine can be. All you have to do is show up and there’s jazz, and there’s wine, both peacefully, and perfectly coexisting in an idyllic setting in Blue Ridge.
JULY
Old Fashioned Fourth July 4th Weekend Downtown Blue Ridge, McCaysville-Copperhill
Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Chamber of Commerce
It’s the ideal 4th of July weekend package: Independence Day in a small patriotic town and several other small, and equally patriotic towns, and a beautiful lake to provide the perfect backdrop for fireworks. Blue Ridge’s Independence Day parade shows creativity and a good sense of humor. The Fabulous Fireworks will be shot off near the Lake Blue Ridge Dam and can be viewed from there as well as Morganton Point Recreation Area, Tammen Park and Lake Blue Ridge Marina. The marina will have live music and barbecue throughout the day. And if it’s an old-fashioned 4th that appeals to you, the small town Independence Day celebration in McCaysville is just the thing, featuring an impressive fireworks display from Tater Hill in downtown McCaysville-Copperhill.
This festival is one of the finest juried arts & crafts shows in the southeast and features work from over 65 artists and craftsmen. Located along the banks of Butternut Creek in Meeks Park, you’ll find something for everyone at this great festival!
Get ready for corn dogs and funnel cakes, but that’s not all. The Georgia Mountain Fair is a North Georgia icon, complete with living exhibits, arts and crafts, a pioneer village; a parade with antique cars, carnival rides and music that ranges from country to gospel including Pam Tillis, Lee Greenwood, and more!
Celebrating the history, heritage and mountain culture of Union County, this event is a Labor Day tradition, complete with regional arts and crafts, music, arts demonstrations. Since the event is centered around the restored 1861 Payne family log home, it makes sense that focus is on the activities that took place back in those days like basket making, chair caning, tending to farm animals and even gold panning.
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association
Be on the lookout for artists painting everything everywhere in Fannin County during this four-day international event. You may see artists in parks, in farm fields, even alongside the road – wherever the spirit has moved them to sit, or stand, and capture the beauty and uniqueness of this region on canvas. This is a judged show with various events surrounding it, including opportunities to meet the artists and purchase their work.
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival
The Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival starts with a Blues Crawl on Friday night, followed by great blues and barbecue on Saturday, which means you get to kind of a meander through eight different restaurants, enjoying live music, food and drink, before jumping full on into the Blues Weekend on Saturday. The blues and barbecue portion of the festivities features barbecue smells and great eats from local and regional cookers. That means aromas and music will be filling the air downtown, with blues musicians performing from stages set all around Blue Ridge City Park.
These are not marbles. Those small, round things that young boys and girls used to “shoot”, kneeling on the floor, or trading them. Remember “purees”, “cat eyes” and “steelys”? No, this festival is a celebration of indigenous rocks, quarries, and local art. Tate marble is historic and world famous and marble quarry tours will be given during the festival.
Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
You’ve got to love a fair that spans weekdays, welcoming visitors for nine straight days! That gives you a chance to enjoy this annual event during large crowd days and during quiet times. You can even plan a fair food lunch. As usual, this year’s fair will feature arts and crafts vendors, educational demonstrations, a flower show, and exciting musical performances.
A true sign of autumn, the fall version of Blue Ridge’s popular Arts in the Park, set amidst the lovely, tree-filled downtown park, with fresh food smells all around, local art, special events and musical performances.
Sorghum Festival October 10th-11th & 17th-18th 10am-5pm Meeks Park, Blairsville
Photo Courtesy of Blairsville Sorghum Festival
Sorghum is one of those mystery words. Pork product? Dental affliction? Nope. It’s actually a cereal grain that grows tall, like corn, but boiled down it produces a sugary-like syrup. You’d be able to deduce that from one item on a list of events that’s part of this annual festival: a biscuit eating contest, with sorghum on top. You may know sorghum better by its full name – sorghum molasses. Whether the taste speaks to you or not, this festival also features live music, arts, crafts, and more fun contests like rock throwing and log sawing!
Georgia Apple Festival October 10th-11th & 17th-18th 9am-6pm Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of Georgia Apple Festival
For 49 years, apples have brought folks together in Ellijay, East Ellijay and Gilmer County. These days, people come from all over for the apples, the parade, the antique car show, the arts and crafts, and almost everything you can imagine (or eat) made from apples!
Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Chamber of Commerce
Black Friday, the all-out dash for discounts, just got softened a bit by Blue Ridge’s very appropriate “Blue Friday”, with special emphasis on fun, a parade, community caroling, Santa’s arrival, and the lighting of a 27-foot tall tree! Also be on the lookout for strolling characters, food vendors and entertainment in the park on Saturday, November 28th and every Saturday through December. Make your escape memorable and join us as Blue Ridge ushers in and celebrates the holiday season!
Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain 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!!! 🎅 $5 for adults, $4 Group sales and children under 12 are FREE!!!
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.
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!
As the season changes from summer to fall, make sure you don’t miss out on the crisp weather, changing leaves and fun fall festivals in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia! Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year so don’t miss your chance to create memorable traditions with your loved ones! Check out the events below and Escape To Blue Ridge!
Photo Courtesy of Habitat for Humanity of Fannin & Gilmer Counties
There’s nothing better than excellent wine and food, unless it’s consuming both for a good cause. Enjoy wine pairings with a selection of salmon, chicken cordon bleu, lamb chops, or lasagna with all proceeds benefiting Habitat for Humanity of Gilmer and Fannin County. Live entertainment and a silent auction round out the event.
Photo Courtesy of Firefly Summer Jazz Concert Series
House concerts are an old concept made new, and they are growing in popularity. It’s a new/old way of helping to sustain music arts in a radically changing music industry landscape. For the audience it provides exceptional acoustics in an intimate environment, where you can meet neighbors and new friends, and get to know the performers personally. Najar and Soledade are accomplished jazz and acoustical guitar performers with an international following.
Photo Courtesy of The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Moving Wall
For those who haven’t had a chance to visit the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, DC, the traveling version provides a scaled version of the same thing, and it brings it to your hometown. In October it’s coming to Blue Ridge. The display, a 3/5 scale, stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War. The Wall travels to help heal the emotional wounds of that war, and to rekindle friendships of that era.
Visit Grumpy Old Men Brewing for great live music and delicious beer! Eighteen beers are currently on tap, and new brews are added frequently! Open Tuesday through Saturday. Dogs are welcome and people are tolerated!
October 4 – Mike Bohnam October 6 – Barktoberfest October 18 – Steve Baskin October 25 – Greg Erwin
The Blue Coyote is known for their live music and entertainment. While you’re there you can enjoy their tasty bar food and a whole bunch of beer! They even have a dog-friendly patio! Stop by, check it out, and enjoy the music!
October 4 – Natti Lovejoys October 5 – Slickfoot October 11 – Southern Vantage October 12 – Breaking Point October 18 – BEATS Workin’ October 19 – Mind the Stepchildren October 25 – Fiction October 26 – Gregg Erwin Band
Here’s your monthly opportunity to drink wine with no guilt. A yoga workout – then drink wine. Easy. The guided yoga lasts about an hour – the wine tasting and wine drinking has no set time parameters. Enjoy!
These are not marbles. Those small, round things that young boys and girls used to “shoot”, kneeling on the floor, or trading them. Remember “purees”, “cat eyes” and “steelys”? No, this festival is a celebration of indigenous rocks, quarries, and local art. Tate marble is historic and world famous and marble quarry tours will be given during the festival.
One of the best ways to enjoy fall is with others who enjoy it just as much as you do! You can do that at the John C. Campbell Fall festival, in the company of a couple hundred of your closest, new friends, and among nearly 300 art and crafts vendors from throughout the region. Traditional and contemporary crafts; bluegrass, gospel, folk, and Celtic music on both days. Tap your toes to clogging demonstrations or just listen to the music. It all takes place on the Brasstown, NC campus, home to hiking trails, and winding wooded paths.
Woof and then Woof again! October 5 – 6 LOCATION: Pours for Pups (Willowcreek Falls and Vineyard) & Barktoberfest (Grumpy Old Men Brewing)
Photo Courtesy of Humane Society of Blue Ridge
Two separate events, two separate places, on two different days – both benefiting local pet rescues. The first, a football party at a vineyard, with raffles, live music and football on large screens, will take place October 5 (Pours for Pups benefits Tri-State Pet Rescue). The second, innovatively called “Barktoberfest” on October 6, also will feature live music, a silent auction and raffles, to benefit the Humane Society of Blue Ridge. Not surprisingly, Grumpy Old Men Brewing is dog-friendly.
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association (The Art Center)
Artists from a large number of states, and perhaps even a few foreign countries, will compete for cash prizes in this 12th annual juried art show. The entries, including show winners, will be on display in the Arts Center in Downtown Blue Ridge from October 5th – 9th. Opening reception is October 5th from 5pm – 7pm.
A beautiful vineyard and winery set in pastoral farmlands in the heart of the Southern Appalachians. Cartacay’s wine history dates to 2007, but it’s heritage is comprised of Cherokee roots (in fact, Cartecay translates to “bread valley”). The winery features plenty of locally sourced wines, tastings and special events, plus live music on most weekends.
October 5 – Craig Hendricks October 6 – Scott Stambaugh October 12 – Timothy O’Donovan October 13 – Man Bites Dog October 19 – Gregg Erwin October 20 – Adrian Stover October 20 – Surrender Hill October 26 – Adrian Stover October 27 – Johnny Summers
Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Chamber of Commerce
What’s even more fun than a town called Cherry Log? Why, a festival in a town called Cherry Log, of course! And this one goes on for three straight weekends in October! Homemade everything (cakes, pies, canned goods, crafts, breakfast, lunch, etc.) and some good old fashioned bluegrass, gospel and country music. Festival hours are 9am – 5pm each weekend day.
You’ve got to love a fair that spans weekdays, welcoming visitors for nine straight days! That gives you a chance to enjoy this annual event during large crowd days and during quiet times. You can even plan a fair food lunch. As usual, this year’s fair will feature musical performances, arts and crafts vendors, educational demonstrations, a flower show and, one of the fair’s annual highlights, Georgia’s Official State Fiddlers’ Convention.
Anytime there’s an adjective in front of a race, you should pay attention. It’s usually a pretty clear indicator that there’s going to be something different, challenging, or outrageous about this race. In the case of the Blue Ridge Ultra Race, the Ultra means a 50 mile running race, including six miles of hidden trails and nine miles of Forest Service road, with creek crossings, steep ascents, even steeper descents, jumping over logs and sometimes quite, as they say, “technical” spots throughout this 50 mile race. Needless to say, this race challenges the most expert racer, but 50 miles is not required; there are also 30 and 15 mile options over the same terrain. Whew!
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association (The Art Center)
A true sign of autumn, the fall version of Blue Ridge’s popular Arts in the Park, set amidst the lovely, tree-filled downtown park, with fresh food smells all around, local art, special events and musical performances.
Sorghum Festival October 12 – 13; 19 – 20 LOCATION: Meeks Park, Blairsville
Photo Courtesy of Blairsville Sorghum Festival
Sorghum is one of those mystery words. Pork product? Dental affliction? Nope. It’s actually a cereal grain that grows tall, like corn, but boiled down it produces a sugary-like syrup. You’d be able to deduce that from one item on a list of events that’s part of this annual festival: a biscuit eating contest, with sorghum on top. You may know sorghum better by its full name – sorghum molasses. Whether the taste speaks to you or not, this festival also features live music, arts, crafts, and more fun contests like rock throwing and log sawing!
Georgia Apple Festival October 12 – 13; 19 – 20 LOCATION: Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds
Photo Courtesy of Georgia Apple Festival
For 46 years, apples have brought folks together in Ellijay, East Ellijay and Gilmer County. These days, people come from all over for the apples, the parade, the antique car show, the arts and crafts, and almost everything you can imagine (or eat) made from apples!
Photo Courtesy of Talking Rock Heritage Days Festival
Spoiler alert: the rock doesn’t actually talk! But this is a cute event in a charming town with everything you’d expect of North Georgia autumn beauty in small town America. Antiques, bluegrass and Southern gospel music, and plenty of food.
NEW HOMES ADDED TO OUR PROGRAM
Like the private treehouse retreat you loved as a kid but a thousand times more spectacular, Little Bird Landing is a hillside oasis that elevates the idea of living in the woods to a whole new level. With a wraparound deck, soaring vaulted ceilings and enormous windows that showcase the magnificent long-range mountain views from every angle, this rustic yet modern showplace has everything you desire in a Blue Ridge vacation hideaway. The cabin can accommodate eight guests in its three comfortable bedrooms plus a queen-size pullout sofa in the game room. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a couples’ weekend, or a getaway with your best friends, Little Bird Landing offers you fun, peace and quiet, and all the comforts of an exclusive resort in a breathtaking mountain setting.
Located on a mountaintop in Morganton, GA, and named for the deer you’re likely to see nearby, the custom-built, beautifully designed and decorated cabin has wraparound decks that showcase long-range mountain views from sunrise to sunset. Deer Haven Hideaway has three comfortable bedrooms, one per floor and featuring hand-carved queen beds, and luxurious bedding designed to create a cozy, warm, and inviting setting. Each has access to the covered decks through French Doors. At this magnificent mountain oasis, it’s all about relaxation, with an ambiance that encourages you to exhale, unwind, and de-stress while enjoying time with family and friends.
Just as with restaurants, we all have a wide variety of choices in the world of golf experiences. In North Georgia, you can easily find a golf course to suit your basic needs, then spend a couple of hours chasing the small ball, in high traffic, over unremarkable terrain, or you can be more discerning and decide to play a more sophisticated and truly exceptional track. When you Escape to Blue Ridge, you have many choices within a short driving distance from you cabin. Let’s take a look at a few great options. Keep Reading.
Labor Day weekend is typically summer’s last hurrah. Visitors flock to the mountains to escape the southern city heat, hoping to “chill” before the final quarter of the year kicks into full gear. (Yikes, only 12 weeks till Christmas? Say it isn’t so!)
Whether you came to be entertained, experience the great outdoors or just eat and drink your way through these three days, we wanted to give you a heads up on what’s happening over this holiday weekend. If the event is kid-friendly we’ve noted it with a KF seal.
Grape Stomp Festival
One of the most iconic episodes of the I Love Lucy Show was the show where Lucy and Ethel take a job in a vineyard stomping grapes. It is impossible not to belly laugh your way through this episode, and Paradise Hills Winery Resort in Blairsville, offers you an opportunity to experience this adventure at their 6th Annual Grape Fest, Saturday, August 31st.
Photo Courtesy of Paradise Hills
Join the fun staff at this mountain top winery for live music all day, grape stomping at 2pm & 4pm, a kid’s craft corner, local craft vendors and delicious wine & craft beer, too. Local BBQ food will be available for purchase. They’ll be having an “I LOVE LUCY – Look-alike Contest” at 2pm and 4pm. Wine Prizes for best costume! You don’t want to miss this fun time (KF). Admission is just $25 per person includes a souvenir glass and a basic tasting. Click here for tickets.
Everybody Loves Opal
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Community Theater
It’s not just Lucy that everyone loves. Opal is a middle-aged recluse living in a tumbledown mansion in the edge of a municipal dump. Enter three vagabonds who try to swindle this kind-hearted optimist. The laughs are plenty and the joyfulness of this cast will make for one of your fondest theatrical experiences. Presented all weekend long at the Blue Ridge Community Theater, Blue Ridge GA. Click here for tickets.
U-Pick Apples
Photo Courtesy of Mercier Orchards
Enjoying the fresh air and summer breezes in the mountains is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Labor Day Weekend is the start of one of our annual visitors favorite family traditions and outdoor activities, Mercier’s Orchards U Pick Apple season. For more details, visit their website here. (KF)
5K & Fun Run
Photo Courtesy of the Boys & Girls Club of North Georgia
If you are looking for a more challenging outdoor time before the summer ends, than you might want to rise very early on Labor Day and participate in the 3rd Annual River Run 5K and Fun Run at Horseshoe Bend Park in Mineral Bluff, GA. Sponsored by the Boys & Girls Club of North Georgia, Race Day Registration and Packet Pickup begins at 7am with the 5K race starting at 8am and the fun race at 8:30am. Bring the kids to participate, too! Awards will be presented to Overall Male/Female and top three male/female runners in 5 year age groups beginning at 10 years old and under through 75 and over. Click here for registration information. (KF)
Race Time
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Motorsports Park
If you like your outdoor entertainment to be loud and dirty, then you might want to head over to the Blue Ridge MotorsportsParkon Saturday night, Aug 31 for the UCRA 3K to Win. A night at the racetrack is fun for the whole family! (KF)
Live Music
Photo Courtesy of Southern Vantage
If you love live music then you have some exceptional options this long weekend. Saturday night the Copperhead Lodge in Blairsville is throwing a party and they’ve invited Southern Vantage to headline. Join this amazing southern rock cover band on the huge veranda/porch at the lodge for drinks, grub, and dance. They cover a variety of genres and hit songs from artists like Haggard, Cash, Waylon, Willie, Skynyrd, CCR, Seger, Blackberry Smoke, Hank Jr., Brooks and Dunn, Garth Brooks, Toby Kieth, Alan Jackson, Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, Stone Temple Pilots, Sublime, Uncle Cracker and much more. Music begins at 7 pm. Come early, grab a seat and some great grub from the Lodge’s award-winning restaurant, The Flying Trout.
BBQ & Gospel Music
Photo Courtesy of the Good Samaritans of Fannin County
Though Southern BBQ is good twelve months a year, there’s something special about smellin’ that smoker cooking some tender butts for hours on end. If it’s BBQ and good southern gospel that you are yearnin’ for, then head into the heart of Blue Ridge for the39th Annual Labor Day BBQ & Gospel Music Show. If it has thrived for nearly four decades, you know it has to offer the best in music and in BBQ. It’s a 3-day event and the public is invited to enjoy all or part of it. On Monday, Sept. 2 from 11:30-6, enjoy the annual Labor Day Bar-B-Q with all the fixings served with Gospel and Blue Grass by tri-state area groups. Presale tickets are available from participating churches, Fannin Chamber of Commerce, and American Wholesale Print Shop. (KF)
Mountain Heritage Festival
Photo Courtesy of Visit Downtown Blairsville
Every Saturday and Sunday of Labor Day weekend downtown Blairsville hosts, the Mountain Heritage Festival. Presented by the Union County Historical Society, the festival celebrates the history and mountain culture of these hills and valleys. Mountain arts/crafts, music, living history activities, demonstrations on quilting, spinning, basket making, chair caning, farm animals, and gold panning, along with activities for children. The activities will be centered around the restored 1861 Payne family log cabin, the Mauney family barn, the Duncan family cabin, and other structures from Union County’s past. Festival hours are 9 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free and there’s plenty of free parking around the Square. (KF)
Summer’s Last Hurrah
Photo Courtesy of Heather Drones
William Shakespeare penned “Summer’s lease hath all too short a date.” We couldn’t agree more. We look forward to seeing you here in the mountains this Labor Day weekend for summer’s last hurrah!
