March 2020



March is when things start to come alive in North Georgia. After a winter that’s been warmer than normal, then colder than normal, then wetter than normal, and finally, just … normal! Now we have buds and early flowers, parades and green beer, and of course the wineries and brewpubs are waking up with tastings and special events.  What a great time of year! Let us help you plan your next getaway. Check out the events below and come stay with us this month!

UPCOMING EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Music & Hops
March 3 – 28
LOCATION: Misty Mountain Hops

Photo Courtesy of Misty Mountain Hops

If you love eating and music then you will love the laid back vibes of Misty Mountain Hops. Good food and sweet tunes make this Vinyl Pub a must!

March 3 – Open Mic Night Hosted By Danny Rhea
March 6 – The Orange Walls (duo)
March 7 – Paul Constantine
March 13 – Quinn Leach
March 14 – Gopher Broke
March 20 – Travis Bowlin
March 21 – Danny Rhea
March 27 – Dave Dale
March 28 – Rivertown Road

Four Old Broads!
March 5 – 22
LOCATION: Blue Ridge Community Theater

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Community Theater

Forgive the name, but enjoy the play! This is one of those plays where the setting could be anywhere, like “Our Town”, but when you localize it (in this case, Helen, Georgia), it makes it all the more fun for those who know the places and the sometimes obscure references. For those who are not familiar with North Georgia’s little slice of Bavaria, just sit back and relax, you’ll get it soon enough!

Opening Day for Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
March 6
LOCATION: Downtown Blue Ridge

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Starting from a historic rail station in downtown Blue Ridge, this classic ride of 26 miles, or about four hours, winds its way along the scenic Toccoa River, through small towns and along pastoral and dramatic topography. You have your choice of vintage, climate controlled or open-air cars, and there’s even time built in for lunch and shopping for unique gifts.

Live Music at Mystic Mountain Pizza
March 6
LOCATION: Mystic Mountain Pizza

Photo Courtesy of Mystic Mountain Pizza

Pizza, beer, tunes. It’s a perfect combination for relaxing, refreshing, rejuvenating. And it’s simply fun. The atmosphere in Mystic Mountain allows you to dine and delight with food, beverages, and live music! Every member of the family will enjoy this, and they serve soft drinks too!

March 6 – Gopher Broke
March 24 – The Foothill Brothers

Bracelet Trio
March 6
LOCATION: Blue Heaven Studio

Photo Courtesy of Blue Heaven Studio

You don’t have to be crafty to make crafts, especially when you have the care and guidance of accomplished artists. In this case, you’ll have a chance to make three macramé bracelets, and you choose your own focal pieces. Then take it easy, maintain attention to detail, get into a rhythm, and complete your piece at your own pace. It’s fun, and rewarding.

Grumpy Old Men Brewing
March 6 – 27
LOCATION: Grumpy Old Men Brewing

Photo Courtesy of Grumpy Old Men Brewing

Great beer (18 beers on tap), a fun atmosphere and a stellar philosophy (delicious beer, dog-friendly, people tolerated). Plenty of craft beers, including those brewed in the brewery, and lots of live music. It’s one of those places that locals like!

March 6 – Travis Bowlin
March 13 – Captain John
March 14 – Steve Baskin
March 20 – Hunter Lyons
March 27 – Trailer Hippies

Music at The Blue Coyote
March 6 – 28
LOCATION: The Blue Coyote

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Coyote

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!

March 6 – Bad Ju Ju and the Ems
March 7 – Adrian Stover
March 13 – Natti Lovejoys
March 14 – Gregg Erwin
March 20 – Topper
March 21 – Mind the Stepchildren
March 27 – Donnie Hammonds
March 28 – Breaking Point

Live at The Bin
March 7 – 20
Location: Bin 322

Photo Courtesy of Bin 322

It’s hard to beat a relaxed setting for live music and Bin 322 Tasting room and Tapas Bar has managed to accomplish that with comfy, family style furniture in a restaurant so you don’t have to cook or even walk to the fridge. Relax. Take your shoes off. Well…at least relax!

March 7 – Chip McCain
March 14 – Robbie Litt
March 20 – Loose Shoes Duo

Cork and Canvas
March 7
LOCATION: Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association

This should be obvious – cork=wine; canvas=art. Put the two together and you have the perfect combination for some fun and fundraising. Wine, a silent auction, a count-the-corks raffle, live music and tasty delectables all contribute to a fine event each year.

Kudzu Vine Shamrock Class
March 7
LOCATION: Pic ‘N Vine

Photo Courtesy of Pic ‘N Vine

It’s not like there’s any shortage of kudzu. So, what do you do with it? Well, it’s rumored that goats eat it, but what fun is that? Much better to get all crafty and artistic with it. Weave it, along with some nice green ribbon, into a kudzu vine shamrock! A perfect gift for your favorite leprechaun.

Live Music at Cartecay Vineyards
March 7 – 29
LOCATION: Cartecay Vineyards

Photo Courtesy of Cartecay Vineyards

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.

March 7 – Craig Hendricks
March 8 – Camille Rae
March 14 – Gregg Erwin
March 15 – Cagle Pitts Duo Review
March 21 – April Cummings
March 22 – Thomas Hinds
March 28 – Adrian Stover
March 29 – Travis Bowlin

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 14
LOCATION: Downtown Blue Ridge

Photo Courtesy of The Boro Inn Irish Pub

This is a day when you’re encouraged to act a little nuts! Dress up in green, maybe even dress your dog up in green. Starting at about 11 am, put on funny hats, pants and shoes, maybe some green sunglasses, and join in a parade down Main Street in Blue Ridge with a couple hundred of your new best friends. Then stay in costume if you like, do a little shopping, eat some cabbage, and maybe drink a bit of green beer. It’s a party, ya’ll!

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 14
LOCATION: East Ellijay

Photo Courtesy of the Friends of Gilmer Animal Shelter

There are discernable differences in how different towns celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in these parts. For Ellijay, it includes all the usual green stuff. Dress in green, eat green muffins, drink green beer, but add to that, green pets. A pet parade is a big part of Ellijay’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. So, get your dog, or cat, or turtle ready to have fun!

St. Patrick’s Day Baking Class
March 14
LOCATION: Mercier Orchards

Photo Courtesy of Mercier Orchards

Forget Green Eggs and Ham! Despite the urgings of “Sam I Am, this unique event is a chance to eat green stuff that tastes GREAT! It’s mostly for kids, but, as always, adults get drawn into the fun, and before you know it, you’ll find yourself combining colors to make various shades of green cakes, cookies and frostings. And it’s highly likely you’ll be eating more than you take home!

Wine Highway Week
March 20 – 29
LOCATION: All over North Georgia

Photo Courtesy of the North Georgia Winegrowers Association

Here’s a simple concept: 1. Love wine 2. Get passport for wine tastings 3. Taste wine all over North Georgia during an entire week! Several of the participating wineries are located central to Blue Ridge, Ellijay, and Blairsville, so you don’t have to go far. But if you decide to venture further, you can use the Blue Ridge Region as home base for hub-and-spoke forays into WineLand. It’s a fun and fruitful way to explore new wineries, enjoy different wine venues, music, entertainment and tasting varieties. One piece of advice: don’t overdo it in a single day. After all, you’ve got all week. Take your time; sip and enjoy!

Bowls of Hope
March 28
LOCATION: Willow Creek Falls Vineyard

Photo Courtesy of Feed Fannin

Here’s a chance to enjoy wine and do something truly good for the local community. Purchase a piece of local pottery and a contribution will be made to the Fannin area food banks. You also get to sample local soups (use your new bowl!), breads and desserts from local restaurants.

Drifters, Coasters, Platters
March 28
LOCATION: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

If all those sound like kitchen and living room amenities, you probably missed the 1950’s and 60’s the first time around. You’re young. Be happy. But if you remember the Drifters, Coasters and Platters, or you found them among the nostalgic music on YouTube, dig out your dancing shoes and come join the fun!

Randall Bramblett
March 28
LOCATION: Blue Ridge Community Theater

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Community Theater

Randall Blamblett is quite simply a wonder. He’s like a musical encyclopedia (remember those?) of the last thirty years, having played with, and written music for, the likes of Bonnie Raitt, The Allman Brothers, The band, Widespread Panic, and he and his band effortlessly cover iconic bands like Hot Tuna, Delbert and dozens of recognizable others. As part of the Live Music is Better series, all attention is on Bramblett – his skills, diversity and variety.

NEW HOMES ADDED TO OUR PROGRAM

This 4-bedroom, 3-bath cabin is the epitome of beauty and class! Aska Easy Day features incredible views of both the Blue Ridge mountains and Lake Blue Ridge, once you check in, you’ll never want to leave! The best part about this gorgeous cabin is that you can bring your 4-legged family members with you on your escape!

https://youtu.be/YWm1QuU3r1c

Perched on a mountaintop more than 3,000 feet above the trees with dramatic, sweeping long-range mountain vistas in the distance, The Owl’s Perch is like a magnificent picture postcard come to life. Located northeast of Lake Blue Ridge on a large lot in Morganton that borders unspoiled U.S. Forest Service land, it’s a calm oasis far removed from stressful city life, but just a short drive away from the shops and dining of downtown Blue Ridge.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Photo Courtesy of Pedego Electric Bikes Blue Ridge GA
Photo Courtesy of Pedego Electric Bikes Blue Ridge GA

SPRING BREAK IN BLUE RIDGE

Spring Break is just around the corner and now is a great time to start planning your end-of-winter getaway. Afterall, we only get 18 school years with our kids, so we should make each and every school vacation count! Because if we’re being truthful, you are dying for a reason to escape from the stresses of work and Spring Break is the perfect guilt-free excuse for a fun family trip! KEEP READING.

2020 Festivals



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!

FEBRUARY

10th Annual Fire and Ice Chili Cook Off Festival
President’s Day Weekend
Saturday, February 15th
11am-5pm
Downtown Blue Ridge

Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Fire & Ice Festival

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!

Bringing the Blues to Blue Ridge
Saturday, February 22nd
6pm-10pm
Mercier Orchards

Photo Courtesy of Mercier Orchards

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.

MARCH

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Saturday, March 14th
11am
Downtown Blue Ridge

Photo Courtesy of The Boro Inn Irish Pub

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!

38th Hammer-In & Metalworking Event
Friday & Saturday, March 13th & 14th
9am-6pm
Trackrock Campground & Stable

Photo Courtesy of Trackrock Campground & Stables

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!  

APRIL

Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival
Friday & Saturday, April 3rd & 4th
9am-9pm
Union County Fine Arts Center, Blairsville

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.

23rd Annual Blue Ridge Writers Conference
Friday & Saturday, April 3rd & 4th
Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Center

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.

Blue Ridge Parade of Homes
Saturday & Sunday, April 18th & 19th
9am-5pm
Blue Ridge and Fannin County

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.

5th Annual Blue Ridge Trout Fest & Outdoor Adventures
Saturday, April 25th
10am-5pm
Downtown Blue Ridge

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. 

MAY

Georgia Apple Blossom Festival
Saturday & Sunday, May 2nd & 3rd
9am-5pm
Downtown Ellijay

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! 

Georgia Mountain EggFest
Saturday, May 16th
9am-5pm
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Photo Courtesy of Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

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.

Spring Arts,Crafts & Music Festival
Memorial Day Weekend
Saturday & Sunday, May 23rd & 24th
10am-5pm
Downtown Blairsville

Photo Courtesy of Visit Downtown Blairsville

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!

JUNE

Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games
Saturday & Sunday, June 13th & 14th
9am-5pm
Meeks Park, Blairsville

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!

Blue Ridge Mountains Wine & Jazz Festival
Saturday, June 27th
3pm-9pm
Inola, Blue Ridge

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.

Butternut Creek Festival
Saturday & Sunday, July 18th & 19th
9am-4pm
Meeks Park, Blairsville

Photo Courtesy of Butternut Creek Festival

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!

August

Georgia Mountain Fair
August 14th-22nd
10am-8pm
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

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!

SEPTEMBER

Mountain Heritage Festival
Saturday & Sunday, September 5th & 6th
10am-5pm
Town Square, Blairsville


Photo Courtesy of Visit Downtown Blairsville

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.

Plein Air International Paint Out
September 10th-13th
Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association

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.

Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ Music Festival
Saturday, September 19th
11am-9pm
Downtown Blue Ridge City Park

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.

OCTOBER

Georgia Marble Festival
Saturday & Sunday, October 3rd & 4th
10am-6pm
Jasper, GA

Photo Courtesy of Georgia Marble Festival

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.

Georgia Mountain Fall Festival
October 9th-17th
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee

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.

Fall Arts in the Park Festival
Saturday & Sunday, October 10th & 11th
10am-5pm
Downtown Blue Ridge City Park

Photo Courtesy of Doug Miracle

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!

NOVEMBER

Light Up Blue Ridge!
Saturday, November 28th
10am-7:30pm
Downtown Blue Ridge

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!

DECEMBER

Mountain Country Christmas
December 3 – 26
6pm-9pm
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

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!!!

November 2019



These are the times when things start falling from the trees, unless you pick them first! That especially applies to apples, plums, and persimmons (as sometimes the fun is in the pickin’). As for the leaves, just let them fall. They’re pretty, and crunchy, and they add to the overall ambiance of this wonderful season!

It’s that time of year when fall colors lead to a true change toward cooler temps. Indian Summer is over, and now you can haul out those long pants, hiking boots, and sweaters for the cooler times. It’s also time for art shows, visits to vineyards, gathering with friends & family, honoring our Veterans, and fishing for autumn trout, just to name a few.

UPCOMING EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Grumpy Old Men Brewing
November 1 – 22
LOCATION: Grumpy Old Men Brewing

Photo Courtesy of Grumpy Old Men

Great beer (18 beers on tap), a fun atmosphere and a stellar philosophy (delicious beer, dog-friendly, people tolerated). Plenty of craft beers, including those brewed in the brewery, and lots of live music. It’s one of those places that locals like!

November 1 – Travis Bowlin
November 8 – Highbeams
November 22 – Gregg Erwin

Music at The Blue Coyote
November 1 – 30
LOCATION: The Blue Coyote

Photo Courtesy of The Blue Coyote

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!

November 1 Slickfoot
November 2 Disciples of sound
November 8 Topper!
November 9 Bottoms up
November 15 Fiction at The Blue Coyote
November 16 Breaking point
November 22 Taylor Hughes
November 23 BEATS Workin’s Ridge Rock in November
November 29 The Nati Lovejoys Reggae Band
November 30 Mind the Stepchildren

Farm to Trail – 30k and 11k Trail Run
November 2
LOCATION: National Forest – Charlie Creek Farms

Photo Courtesy of Dirty Spokes Productions

The distances sound daunting, 30k is no 10 and 11k is no 5 – but when you consider that this run will be managed for a maximum of 250 participants and the terrain will be all dirt trails through dense forest, you quickly understand that this is not your typical run around the block. The beauty of this part of Georgia, especially in the National Forest, and especially at this time of year, is breathtaking. Register soon – space is limited.

Veterans Day Parade and Memorial Service
November 9
LOCATION: Downtown Blue Ridge and Veterans Memorial Park

Photo Courtesy of Eddie Landry

Veterans Day is a solemn occasion, when we recognize those who sacrificed to keep America safe and secure, but somehow, with brass bands, flags waving, color guards leading a parade, and burgers on the grill, it’s also a cause for celebrating the strength of a nation! Thanks to those who have given so much. Celebrate and commemorate Veterans Day in Downtown Blue Ridge, but save the solemn for Memorial Park.

Namaste and Cabernet
November 9
LOCATION: Bear Claw Vineyards

Photo Courtesy of Yoga Over Blue Ridge

Here is 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!

Tullie Brae Live
November 9
LOCATION: Blue Ridge Community Theater

Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Community Theater

There’s the blues … then there’s the Tullie Brae BLUES!  This contemporary blues/rock-infused contemporary blues musician is a magician when it comes to setting tone and tenor for a fabulous night of jazzy swing. Her shows have been described as pure energy, a Louisiana Delta meets Memphis Belle kind of tribute to all the best of the genre.  She has appeared with BB King and Bonnie Raitt among others and she captivates all she comes in contact with. It’s gonna be quite a concert!

Holiday Show and Sale & Who Dun It? Mystery Art Fundraiser
November 16 – January 4 (Craft Fair)
November 16 (Mystery Art)
LOCATION: Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association

Unique handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings, and gifts of all description are about to go on sale…let the holidays begin! This is just what artists have been working for and what customers of custom crafts have been waiting for, and it’s not just a weekend fling. This holiday show and sale begins just before Thanksgiving and lasts into January!

The WhoDunIt Mystery Art Fundraiser includes original art pieces, food, live music and lots of fun!

It’s a Wonderful Life
November 21 – December 15
LOCATION: Blue Ridge Community Theater

Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Community Theater

But… but … but … It’s not YOUR town, Mr. Potter! Thank you, Jimmy Stewart for your one-of-a-kind interpretation of this Christmas classic, which will be ringing in your ears as you ring in the season with “It’s a Wonderful Life”. The Blue Ridge Community Theater’s performance of this memorable, and inspirational, timeless holiday story will be sure to delight young and young at heart!

19th Annual Mistletoe Market
November 23 – 24
LOCATION: North Georgia Technical College, Blairsville

Photo Courtesy of Artworks

An early entry in the holiday crafts bazaar scene, about a week before all the Black Friday craziness. You can choose to be more civilized picking and choosing of your holiday-themed local crafts and creations in jewelry, pottery, soap-making and wood crafts. Plus the local artisans are fascinating to talk to and learn about.  

Fly Fishing Class
November 23
LOCATION: Cohutta Fishing Company

Photo Courtesy of Cohutta Fishing Company

You’ve just gotta trust a fishing company to teach you how to fish. It’s what they do. This class covers all the basics and the advanced stuff you really need to know to catch fish plus descriptions of local waters (aka, fishing where the fish are), knots, rods, reels and casting techniques. 

Happy Thanksgiving!
November 28
LOCATION: All Across America

We are thankful for all of our past and future cabin guests. It’s our absolute pleasure to provide you luxury accommodations in the North Georgia Mountains. Our sincere wish this holiday season is that you and yours can come together, eat some delicious food, and be thankful for all we have been given in this life.

A Community Thanksgiving
November 28
LOCATION: Fannin County High School

Photo Courtesy of the Good Samaritans of Fannin County

It is a day of sharing good things, including a Thanksgiving meal, with neighbors and friends as well as anyone in need. It’s also a fundraiser to support future good deeds. Take out meals are available.

Blue Friday & Light Up Blue Ridge!
November 29 – 30
LOCATION: Downtown Blue Ridge

Photo Courtesy of Light up Blue Ridge

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 30th and every Saturday through December. Make your escape memorable and join us as Blue Ridge ushers in and celebrates the holiday season!

NEW HOMES ADDED TO OUR PROGRAM

A unique cabin retreat built to become the backdrop for large families to gather and create lasting memories. If you’ve had your heart set on a North Georgia mountain family vacation but haven’t found a rental large enough for your big family, group of friends, or church retreats Serenity Cove is the perfect cabin for you. With ample room for 16 guests, Serenity Cove is a magnificent private retreat that offers you all the amenities of a high-end resort, and so much more!

https://youtu.be/dkf-OXo6i18

If the stress and hustle and bustle of daily life in the city has you yearning for peace, quiet and the beauty of nature, it’s time to escape to the Blue Ridge mountains, and Getaway is the perfect place to do it. On a hillside surrounded by towering trees, this tri-level cabin offers you the ultimate in privacy and relaxation, with a world of fun activities and adventure just a short drive away. You can walk down and hike back the half mile to the Toccoa River, and it’s four miles to tubing and whitewater rafting, five miles to Mercier Orchards, seven miles to downtown Blue Ridge and three miles to Copperhill and McCaysville.

What’s on your checklist when considering a North Georgia cabin rental? Chances are you want privacy, a great view, all the comforts of a home away from home and close proximity to downtown Blue Ridge. At Cloud Top Cabin, you’ll find that and so much more. This uniquely constructed mountain retreat, built of wood from Montana and decorated in rustic-chic style with brand new, custom-made furniture, is ideal for a large family or friends’ getaway—it can accommodate 10 guests in its four master bedroom suites. And the view? Step onto the wraparound decks to take in long-range mountain vistas that are especially spectacular at sunset.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Photo Courtesy of Jerry Mucklow

If it’s a Rainy Day in Georgia

When you escape to the mountains, you look forward to being able to explore the great outdoors, to take scenic rides through the Blue Ridge foothills and highlands, seek out a waterfall and enjoy an evening around the fire pit, sipping wine while the kids gorge on toasted marshmallows. Sometimes Mother Nature plays havoc with your plans, aiming her watering hose right at your coveted vacation spot. When this occurs, don’t let it keep you from enjoying what Blue Ridge has to offer. Lots of our best activities are under roof. Keep Reading.