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Regional Happenings

Home Page Image: Beech Mountain Kite Festival. Above: Daniel Boone Day at Hickory Ridge History Museum; Food Truck Festival at Sugar Mountain

Regional Happenings Spring 2026

Compiled by Karen Rieley

After months of playing in the snow and enjoying mugs of hot chocolate by a warm fire, we celebrate nature’s rebirth this season with a plethora of events and activities related to art, food, beverages, health, music, history, agriculture, sports, nature, and America250! You’ll find a sampling of opportunities here for residents and visitors to enjoy this spring and we encourage you to explore on your own for more.  

Delightful little towns and villages abound, each with its own personality and claim to fame. Take time to visit as many as possible—Bakersville, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Blowing Rock, Boone, Burnsville, Elkin, Elk Park, Linville, Little Switzerland, Newland, Pineola, Seven Devils, Spruce Pine, Valle Crucis, Vilas and West Jefferson in North Carolina; Abingdon and Damascus in Virginia; and Butler, Elizabethton, Mountain City and Roan Mountain in Tennessee, just to name some of the areas we cover in CML. 

You’ll find information on other spring happenings elsewhere in the magazine, including in our Cultural Calendar, Art Remarks, and Trail Reports. To see all events taking place in NC as part of our country’s America250 celebration, visit events.dncr.nc.gov/A250NC.

April  

Mayland Earth to Sky Park | April through June in Burnsville, NC 

In addition to ongoing community stargazing opportunities at Bare Dark Sky Observatory, Mayland Community College’s Earth to Sky Park hosts a variety of educational and fun events for the whole family. From laser light shows to other special visual presentations, there’s something for everyone this spring. Families will enjoy showings of “James Webb Space Telescope: The Story Unfolds” to discover the furthermost reaches of the universe as revealed by the James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful telescope ever built.  

New shows will be slated throughout the season. Check out their calendar at www.mayland.edu/sky-to-sky-park-calendar/and find additional information at mayland.edu/esp and facebook.com/EarthToSkyPark. 

Local Farmers’ Markets | Early April through June, throughout the region 

Discover the vibrant colors and flavors at your local farmers’ markets! This spring, enjoy fresh produce and unique artisan goods, support local growers, and connect with your community at one of many Farmers’ Markets throughout the region. See our Farmers’ Market Guide in the print version, on stands now. 

First Friday Art Crawls | Year-round, 5 – 8 p.m., at Appalachian State University’s Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, and throughout downtown Boone, NC 

 Every First Friday of the month, downtown Boone comes alive with creativity, community, and celebration! Throughout town, explore captivating galleries featuring contemporary art exhibitions, meet local artists, attend gallery receptions, enjoy live music and more. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for an inspiring night out, the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts is the perfect place to start your First Friday Art Crawl adventure. Tcva.org, watauga-arts.org/first-friday-art-crawls 

April Earth Day Celebration Art Crawl | April 17, 5 – 8 p.m., at the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, and throughout downtown Boone, NC 

In April, downtown Boone participates in this special Earth Day-focused edition of Art Crawl! Head to the Turchin Center for ARTtalk as Gretchen Ernster Henderson presents “Dear Body of Water” at 5 p.m. in the TCVA Lecture Hall. Other First Friday Art Crawls are held May 1, June 5 and July 2, 5 to 8 p.m. at the Jones House, The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts and other locations. 

BuildFest | April 18, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Watauga County High School, 300 Go Pioneers Drive, Boone, NC 

The Children’s Playhouse BuildFest is a free community event featuring more than 80 hands-on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) activities for kids aged 2-12, a giant Cardboard City for kids 5 and up, Tiny Town for kids under 5, Touch a Truck, the Amazing Science Show and much, much more. Plan to stay for at least two hours to explore zones spread out over two gyms, the commons and outside at Watauga High School. The Family Resource Village offers activities for babies and toddlers and useful information for parents. Other zones include Adventures in Force and Motion, Builders Burg, Gravity Alley, the Arts District, Science Central, and more. For families with sensory sensitivities, noise-reducing headphones and a “Calm Down Corner” room adjacent to the action are available. There is lowered lighting during the opening hour from 9 to 10 a.m. goplayhouse.org/buildfest 

Merlefest | April 23-26 in Wilkesboro, NC 

Taking place on the campus of Wilkes Community College (WCC), MerleFest is a celebration of “traditional plus” music, a unique mix of traditional, roots-oriented sounds of the Appalachian region, including old-time, classic country, bluegrass, folk and gospel, and blues, and expanded to include Americana, classic rock, and many other styles. The festival hosts a diverse collection of artists on its 12 stages during the course of the multi-day event. MerleFest is the primary fundraiser for the WCC Foundation, funding scholarships, capital projects, and other educational needs. Find out more about the history of the event, the full lineup of artists, and other festival details and access a ticket link at Merlefest.org.  

An Evening of Comedy and Magic | Saturdays, 7 – 8:30 p.m., at 737 W King St, Boone, NC 

The Carolina Comedy Magic Parlor delivers an intimate and unforgettable evening of magic and laughter, with limited seating. Step into a cozy parlor-style theater where every seat is the best seat in the house. Featuring magician Lyndy Phillips, you’ll be amazed by his masterful sleight of hand and delighted by his witty, clean humor, creating an immersive experience that blends comedy and wonder. “Boone’s destination for laughter, astonishment, and pure live entertainment.” Located downtown inside Mysterium Escape Adventure. www.carolinamagicparlor.com 

Earth to Elkin | Earth Day, April 18 in Elkin, NC 

On the third Saturday in April, a special Earth Day event is taking place in Elkin, a town along the Yadkin River. Earth to Elkin returns on Saturday, April 18, as a community-wide celebration of the town’s natural beauty and commitment to sustainability. The day features hands-on activities focused on environmental stewardship, including citizen science hikes with bird counts and water testing, educational demos like composting and native gardening and the town’s “Litter-ally Free” clean up. The celebration wraps up with an Earth Rally from 4–8 p.m. outside at the Yadkin Valley Heritage & Trails Visitor Center, featuring local conservation groups, food trucks, local beer and wine, and live music. exploreelkin.com/earthtoelkin 

4th Annual Life on the Homefront | April 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Museum of Ashe County History, 301 East Main Street in Jefferson, NC 

This free event is brought to life by members of The Friends of the 40s, a living history organization to educate the public about civilian life during World War II. Visitors can chat with reenactors and view several displays on topics ranging from civilian defense and air raid wardens to volunteer nurse aides, scrap drives, women factory workers and more. Members of A Walk in Their Boots offer a World War II-era recruitment station and military display. In the event of rain, activities will be moved inside the museum. For more information about these events, call 336-846-1904, or visit ashehistory.org/events/friendsofthe40smuseum. 

Fire on the Mountain Blacksmith Festival | April 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Spruce Pine Main Street, 164 Locust, in Spruce Pine, NC 

Join blacksmiths and blacksmithing enthusiasts for this free annual celebration of the art of the blacksmith in downtown Spruce Pine. The event is a partnership between Spruce Pine Main Street, Penland School of Craft, and the Toe River Arts. Participants will enjoy blacksmith demonstrations, blacksmith vendor booths, a youth and adult forge-off, a hands-on tent, great food and more. For a full schedule of events, visit discoversprucepinenc.com/fireonthemountain and on Facebook: FireOnTheMountainFestival.  

Mule Days at Leatherwood Mountains Resort | April 28 to May 3, at 512 Meadow Road 
in Ferguson, NC 

This fun, family-oriented event features 125 mules and donkeys and people from 10 different states. Enjoy the free-to-audit/watch Ty Evans Mules Clinic, and a coloring contest for all ages, with ribbons awarded on Saturday evening. Friday night is the popular Coon Jump Competition. Following the competition, Leatherwood’s restaurant is open for a full dinner and free live music. Several competitions are held throughout Saturday followed by a parade through Leatherwood. On Saturday evening, enjoy a ticketed celebration dinner with awards. Other events include trail obstacle competitions, tack swap, costume contest, fundraising silent auction, prizes and drawings, kids’ activities, shopping, tons of trail riding, gift shopping and more! For camping, stall, cabin and mule celebration dinner reservations call (336) 973-5044 or visit leatherwoodmountains.com or facebook.com/muledaysatleatherwood/.   

May 

Beech Mountain Happenings | May through June in the Town of Beech Mountain and Beech Mountain Resort, NC 

Sandwiched between winter’s snows and skiing crowds, and summer’s cool breezes and vacationing families, you’ll experience the natural world as it awakens from a winter’s sleep.  

The town of Beech Mountain is famed for the abundant wildlife that lives in communion with man here. Spring is the time to see mother deer with their young, trout filling the streams, birds migrating along the NC Birding Trail, and maybe even a shy bear or two. Get outdoors with a wide range of outdoor experiences for all ages. 

May is Beech Mountain’s Hike on Month with a full slate of activities and entertainment all season long. Hikers can take in waterfalls, wildlife, and wildflowers. See Trail Reports for more details. On May 21, the Beech Mountain History Museum reopens, with displays on the Cherokees; logging, milling and railroads on the mountain; early skiing and the creation of Ski Beech resort; the Land of Oz amusement park; local storytelling legend Ray Hicks; and mountain music makers (beechmtn.com/visit/beech-mountain-history-museum/). Over at Beech Mountain Resort, enjoy scenic lift rides, mountain biking, disc golf, live music, and more when the resort opens for the spring/summer season on Saturday, May 23. For a complete list of Beech Mountain events, visit beechmtn.com and beechmountainresort.com. 

Youth Makers Markets | May through June in Boone, NC 

Empowering our next generation of artists, Youth Makers Markets provide opportunities for young people to sell their artworks on the second and fourth Saturday of each month, May through October. In addition to the Watauga Farmers’ Market, they also serve as vendors at the First Friday Art Crawl each month and at other events throughout the year. Youth must be registered to participate. watauga-arts.org/youth-makers-markets 

NC Fried Apple Pie Festival | May 1 to 2 in Sparta, NC 

The 4th annual Fried Apple Pie Festival begins on Friday, May 1 at 5 p.m., and continues on Saturday, May 2, at 9 a.m. Music, entertainment for kids, a baking contest, an eating contest and lots of family fun are in store. This year, organizers are partnering with the Alleghany Historical Society to pay tribute to Terry Choate, the county’s own grammy winning native son. Visit a special exhibit, “Terry Choate—The Man Behind the Music,” at the Alleghany Historical Museum.  Facebook.com/NCFriedApplePieFestival/  

YMCA Healthy Kids Day^® | May 2 at Williams YMCA of Avery County in Linville, NC 

The Williams YMCA of Avery County will host the Y’s annual Healthy Kids Day® on May 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Blackburn Athletic Facility. This free, annual event features a variety of family-friendly activities to encourage healthy kids, healthy families and a healthy start to the summer season.  

“At the Y, we believe in providing resources for families to create healthy habits, no matter the time of year,” said Mollie Allen, Association Youth Development Director. “Healthy Kids Day is a fun, free community-wide event that encourages families to take advantage of all the great resources at the Y and other local organizations available to them.” 

Sponsored nationally by Peanuts and Gatorade, Healthy Kids Day features Block Fest®, a magician, inflatables, food trucks, and various community resource vendors. For more information, contact the Y at 828-737-5500 and visit www.ymcaavery.com. 

46^th Annual Blowing Rock Trout Derby | May 2, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., starting at 173 Lakeside Drive in Blowing Rock, NC  

Presented by The Speckled Trout Outfitters, this popular outdoor event features some of the best trout fishing in the Southeast. Fishers are invited to show off their catch from public water in Watauga, Ashe, and Avery counties during this friendly annual competition. Kids 16 and under are also invited to draw their best trout for a chance to be included on next year’s poster and t-shirt. Art activities take place at The Speckled Trout Outfitters, 916 Main Street in Blowing Rock. blowingrock.com/troutderby  

Girls on the Run 5K | May 3, at Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences – Greenway Trail, 1179 State Farm Road in Boone, NC  

The Girls on the Run of the High Country 5K is celebrated twice each year as the culminating event in the 10-week GOTR curriculum. This event is open to everyone—seasoned runners chasing a Personal Record, families pushing strollers, first-time 5K participants, and enthusiastic cheer squads. Whether you run, walk, skip, or hop, every step forward supports programs that inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident.Prior to the 2 p.m. run, participate in fun warm-up activities for the entire family. Learn more about the organization, event registration, volunteer opportunities, and other ways to support GOTR at appwell.appstate.edu/outreach/exercise-nutrition/gotr/5k/and facebook.com/GOTRHighCountry. 

Fifth Annual Fiber Frolic at Hickory Ridge History Museum | May 16, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 591 Horn in the West Drive, Boone, NC 

Get ready for a day filled with fiber fun, including exciting activities like spinning demonstrations and wool carding. Whether you’re a seasoned fiber enthusiast or just curious to learn more, Fiber Frolic at Hickory Ridge is the perfect opportunity to come together with fellow fiber lovers and celebrate all things fiber. This free family-friendly event is perfect for all ages. horninthewest.com/tours-events/fourth-annual-fiber-frolic-at-hickory-ridge-history-museum 

Yadkin Valley Wine Festival | May 16 in Elkin, NC  

Nestled in the heart of the Yadkin Valley, the 23^rd Annual Yadkin Valley Wine Festival is a casual outdoor celebration of local flavor and community spirit. Held in the charming small town of Elkin, this lively event features over 15 Yadkin Valley wineries, each offering tastings of their unique, award-winning wines. 

Guests can sip and stroll through a relaxed, scenic setting filled with delicious food trucks, local craft vendors, and live music throughout the day. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out with friends, the festival offers a perfect blend of great wine, great food, and small-town hospitality, surrounded by the beauty of North Carolina’s wine country. YadkinValleyWineFestival.com  

Blowing Rock Art in the Park | May 16 and June 13 in downtown Blowing Rock, NC 

Celebrating over six decades of shows, Art in the Park is host to nearly 100 artisans at each of their six monthly shows. Artists’ tents extend along Park Avenue, from Main Street to Wallingford Street. Held 10 a.m. to 4 p.m, rain or shine, each curated show features a variety of mediums—from fine art and furniture to jewelry and textiles—and a free shuttle runs continuously from Shoppes on the Parkway to Park Avenue, making it easy to enjoy the event and explore town. Spring dates are May 16 and June 13, with additional 2026 dates to include: July 25, August 15, September 12 and October 3. blowingrock.com/artinthepark/ 

Mile High Kite Festival | May 23, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., in Beech Mountain, NC 

Located at more than 5,000 feet in elevation, the town meadow is the perfect place for children of all ages to sail their kites up to a mile above sea level. On the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend, Mile High Kite Festival, produced by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce, includes demonstrations by professional kite flyers. Free kits are available for the first 300 kids (12 and under). Others are encouraged to bring their own kites, along with chairs and blankets to sit on while admiring the kites flying above. Food vendors will be at the festival, and great restaurants—including Fred’s Backside Deli at Fred’s General Mercantile—are nearby. Dress in layers and wear sunscreen. Beechmtn.com, averycounty.com 

Memorial Day Weekend at Sugar Mountain | May 23-24 in Sugar Mountain, NC 

In addition to an assortment of great food, the Sugar Mountain Food Truck Festival on May 23, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., features chair lift rides, the mountain bike park, yard games, live music and more. The Lucky Strikes perform from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Classic Highway performs from 2 to 5 p.m. Sample fare from a variety of popular food trucks. skisugar.com/foodtruck/ 

Visitors to Sugar Mountain Resort will enjoy Bike Park & Scenic Chairlift Rides for the entire Memorial Day weekend from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Rides aboard the Summit Express shuttle bikers and foot-passengers to the mountain’s peak, and the Easy Street lift services a beginner-level gravity skills trail for bikers only. After the special Memorial Day weekend, the bike park resumes rides during the Fourth of July weekend. skisugar.com/bikepark/  

Sugar Mountain’s Grillin’ and Chillin’ Live Music and Dinner Series begins on Memorial Day weekend, and then every Wednesday, June-August, and on Labor Day, at Sugar Mountain’s Golf and Tennis Club House Deck. Wear your dancing shoes! Seating is also available inside and all events happen rain or shine (seesugar.com/summer-concerts/). Visit SeeSugar.com and Skisugar.com for all the spring happenings at Sugar Mountain!  

Art on the Greene | May 23-24, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in downtown Banner Elk, NC   

Beginning with Memorial Day weekend, Banner Elk’s annual Art on the Greene series features art festivals on four weekends of late spring and summer. The shows fill the area in front of the Historic Banner Elk School with fine art from local and regional artists representing a variety of media, such as ceramics, glass, metal, wood, watercolor, acrylics and oil. Over 60 juried artists display their work at the outdoor tents. And BE Artists Gallery, a co-op representing over 30 local artists, will be open inside the Historic Banner Elk School. The artwork is complemented by the beautiful setting located right in the middle of downtown Banner Elk, where you can also visit restaurants and retail shops. 

Other shows in the series include Fourth of July weekend, July 4-5; August Days, August 1-2, and Labor Day weekend, September 5-6. townofbannerelk.org/art-on-the-greene/ 

Booth rental proceeds from Art on the Greene go toward preservation of the Historic Banner Elk School, which is maintained by the Town of Banner Elk. The 1939 rockwork school is home to the BE Artists Gallery, Banner Elk Book Exchange, Ensemble Stage professional theater, CML Magazine, Playful Heart yoga studio, and Common Ground (affiliated with Lees-McRae). Bannerelk.com 

44^th New River Canoe Race | May 30, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., in Jefferson, NC 

Hosted by the New River Conservancy—after a hiatus due to hurricane Helene —paddlers will gather at Zaloo’s Canoes to begin the popular race. This Ashe County tradition is sponsored by generous donations from community sponsors, with proceeds supporting ongoing restoration work and river clean ups in North Carolina being done by the New River Conservancy. 
 
Whether you compete, float for fun, or just spectate, come enjoy a beautiful day on the banks of the New River. Bring your own canoe or kayak, or rent one from Zaloo’s for a discounted rate. Zaloo’s also provides a free shuttle on the day of the race. The average time for new paddlers on this 5-mile stretch of river is around one hour. Many contestants with advanced skills have completed the race in less than 45 minutes. The race will take place rain or shine! newriverconservancy.org/event/44th-new-river-canoe-ra/  

Storytelling Contest with Orville Hicks | May 30, 12 – 3 p.m., at Hickory Ridge Living History Museum in Boone, NC  

Discover the beautiful tradition of Appalachian storytelling with a special afternoon featuring legendary storyteller Orville Hicks. Known for his mesmerizing way with words and deep roots in mountain folklore, Orville will share classic Jack Tales and other local legends that have been passed down for generations. Following the performance, guests take to the stage in a Tall Tale Contest. “Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or just want to try your hand at spinning a wild yarn, this is your chance to showcase your creativity. The taller the tale, the better!” horninthewest.com 

June 

Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show 2026 — Saddlebred | June 4-7 at the L. M. Tate Horse Show Grounds at Broyhill Equestrian Preserve, Blowing Rock, NC  

The Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show is one of the oldest horse show events in the country and has been a Blowing Rock tradition since 1923. The Saddlebred Show on June 4-7 exhibits Three and Five Gaited Open Championship classes, the Roadster classes, shown both under saddle and in harness, plus the Fine Harness division. Enjoy the flash, grace, and electric atmosphere of this classic show. brchs.org/broyhill-preserve/ 

Daniel Boone Day at Hickory Ridge History Museum | June 6, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at 591 Horn in the West Drive, Boone, NC 

Step back in time and celebrate National Daniel Boone Day in the town that bears his name! The event features hands-on history, historical interpreters, and colonial craft demonstrations that bring the 18th century to life. Experience life on the frontier with guided tours of the museum’s six historic cabins; traditional skills like blacksmithing, hearth cooking, and wool spinning; and tomahawk throwing. Perfect for history lovers of all ages, Dan’l Boone Day offers a unique opportunity to learn about Boone’s legacy, Appalachian traditions and the daily life of early settlers. horninthewest.com/tours-events/danl-boone-day-at-hickory-ridge-history-museum 

Ashe County America 250th Celebration | June 6, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the Museum of Ashe County History, Jefferson, NC 

Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States on the grounds of the Museum of Ashe County History. With free events planned throughout the morning and midday to celebrate, learn, and reflect, visitors will have the opportunity to chat with living historians about the American Revolution, see craft demonstrations, enjoy children’s activities, and listen to historic lectures. A special pop-up exhibit about the Battle of Kings Mountain, courtesy of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, will also be available for viewing. 

At 11 a.m. members of the Daniel Boone Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will be reading a portion of the Declaration of Independence. At 1 p.m. historian and author Michael C. Hardy will give a lecture on his newest book, “Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee in the American Revolution.”  

This event is FREE and open to the public—the Museum is located at 301 E. Main Street in Jefferson, NC. For more information, call (336) 846-1904. In the event of rain, the celebration will be moved inside the museum. ashehistory.org/events/asheamerica250th  

The Coolest Corner Ashe Bash | June 6 in Jefferson, NC  

The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce sponsors this free, family-friendly musical celebration for High Country residents and visitors to the region. The sixth annual event will be held at the Ashe County Government Complex, located above Bojangles in Jefferson (150 Government Circle), and features the Krüger Brothers and Fireside Collective. A variety of food vendors will serve treats on-site beginning at 5 p.m., with music beginning at 6 p.m. Free shuttles provide easy transportation from off-site lots. Guests are invited to bring a chair; no alcohol or pets allowed. Visit ashechamber.com/ashe-bash.php to learn more. 

Apple Hill Farm Alpaca Shearing Day | June 6, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., in Banner Elk, NC 

All are welcome, but reservations are required for this unique and popular event at Apple Hill Farm in Banner Elk. Your pass allows you to get a front row seat to observe alpaca shearing! Tour guides will answer questions about alpacas and the shearing process. You’ll also be able to browse through the Farm Store, where yarn and socks made from the farm’s own alpaca fiber, as well as a large selection of other gifts, are sold. 

The farm is home to nine species of animals, including alpacas, llamas, goats, mini-cows and more. On Shearing Day, your family can take a guided walking tour and learn about all the animals that live and play at Apple Hill Farm. applehillfarmnc.com. 

Spring Home Show | June 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 165 Morris Street in Blowing Rock, NC 

The Third Annual Spring Home Show, presented by Peak Sanitation, will showcase the latest in residential home services, providing inspiration and resources for homeowners and home builders. The Spring Home Show will feature a wide array of exhibitors, including local businesses and national brands, offering everything from interior design and landscaping to home improvement and living solutions. “Are you renovating, building from the ground up, or simply in need of expert advice? This event is your one-stop shop for all things home! Meet skilled professionals, explore the latest trends, and get inspiredfor your next project.”  loveblowingrock.com/eventcalendar/chamber-events 

Boonerang | June 19-21 in Boone, NC  

Each year, Boonerang Music & Arts Festival celebrates Boone, NC, with a free downtown street festival. This community homecoming brings Boone-linked musical artists and fans together every third weekend in June and includes multiple concert stages throughout downtown Boone. At the Artist Market, local nonprofits and vendors showcase handmade crafts, pottery, textiles, artwork, photography, jewelry, apparel, home décor, personal care items, food products, and more. Enjoy numerous food and beverage options, a Kids Zone, a “Silent Disco,” a Vintage Market, and Boonerang International, with musical and dance performances from international musicians. For a complete schedule and more details, visit boonerangfest.com. 

NC Rhododendron Festival | June 19-20 in Bakersville, NC 

The NC Rhododendron Festival is in its 79^th year, drawing hundreds of visitors from all over the region. The event features the Rhododendron Festival Pageant, a Craft Fair, food vendors, children’s activities, and live music throughout the day, as well as a classic car show! ​On Friday and Saturday nights during the Festival, grab your partner and your friends for the Rhododendron Square Dance on Main Street in downtown Bakersville. Festival hours and details at ncrhododendronfestival.org.  

Roan Mountain Rhododendron Festival | June 20-21 in Roan Mountain, TN 

The Roan Mountain Citizens Club presents their 79^th Rhododendron Festival at Roan Mountain State Park, located at the foot of Roan Mountain. The annual festival heralds in the blooming of the famous Catawba Rhododendron along the highlands of the Roan. You’ll find handmade crafts, food, and a variety of traditional music, plus demonstrations of old-time traditions. The world’s largest natural rhododendron gardens grow atop 6,000-ft Roan Mountain and the shrubs are in peak bloom during late June. You can also hike the Appalachian Trail that runs along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. roanmountain.com/rhododendron-festival/ 

Avery County Heritage Festival | June 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., in Newland, NC 

Hosted by the Avery County Historical Society, the Avery County Heritage Festival celebrates this area and its unique history. “On the Square” in downtown Newland (Schultz Circle), you’ll find craftspeople, genealogists, authors, performers and plenty of fun. Share family genealogy and cultural traditions that are part of Avery County’s identity. The Heritage Festival is free, and the event includes craft and food vendors, plus a full lineup of musicians and cloggers. averycountymuseum.org/heritage-festival/ 

While you’re there, step inside the Avery County Museum, located in the old Avery County Jail building, where you’ll find displays of local artifacts and memorabilia from the area as well as an extensive reference library for researchers to use, free of charge, to work on their genealogies. Outside, view the old train depot and caboose. The Avery County Historical Society operates the museum and sponsors events throughout the year—they also recently worked in cooperation with the America 250 Committee to acquire the impressive Revolutionary War Mural painted on the Newland Town Hall building. averycounty.com/directory/avery-county-historical-museum/ 

July: Save the Date

Sugar Mountain Summit Crawl | July 4 at Sugar Mountain Resort, NC 

The Sugar Mountain Resort Summit Crawl is a fun and competitive event in which participants run, hike, climb, or crawl from the ski lodge to Sugar Mountain’s 5,300-foot peak by way of the grassy slopes. skisugar.com/crawl/ 

Independence Day Celebrations | July 4 throughout the Region 

The High Country celebrates America250 with parades, fireworks, kids’ activities, fun runs, food, beverages, live music, history displays and more! Find links to our area’s Chambers of Commerce, TDAs and Visitor Centers at cmlmagazine.online. Be sure to pick up our Summer issue in late June for more details! 

Christmas in July Festival | July 3-4 in West Jefferson, NC 

Now in its 38th year, this free festival in the heart of downtown West Jefferson celebrates the Christmas tree industry and mountain heritage with arts, crafts, local entertainers, traditional mountain music, food and family fun. A large stage in the middle of downtown West Jefferson is the hub for several excellent bands. Throughout Saturday, the Ashe County Arts Council hosts children’s activities, performers rove the streets showcasing their magical talents, music and storytelling continues, and Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive straight from the North Pole.  

Ashe County’s longest-running festival is organized by a dedicated team of volunteers who prioritize a fun, safe, and family-friendly experience for the community and visitors to Ashe County. For more information on the music lineup, food vendors, and updates on the festival, follow the festival organizers on Facebook: Christmas In July Festival or visit christmasinjulyfestival.com. 

70^th Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games | July 9-12 in Linville, NC 

The sounds of bagpipes, the spirit of competition, the scents of favorite foods, and the brilliant colors of Scottish tartans return to MacRae Meadows in Linville, NC, for the annual gathering and games—now in its 70^th year!  

Sample Scottish music, dancing, food, costumes, field games, sheep herding and much more. Celebrate our area’s Scottish ancestry and culture, and cheer as you watch the clans compete. Tradition and camaraderie are tightly woven into this festive annual event, with participants traveling from across the country and world to attend; you’ll want to plan ahead to enjoy all the Highland Games has to offer. 

Following is a quick preview of regularly scheduled events—visit gmhg.org for complete details and updates. 

Thursday, July 9 

• Children’s field games and clinics 

• MacRae Meadows open 

• Scottish entertainment with traditional Celtic music, plus sheep dog demonstrations (throughout the weekend), whisky tasting, and more 

• Opening Torchlight Ceremony announcing each participating Clan’s arrival to the Games; Piping & Drumming performance 

Friday, July 10 

• Preliminary athletic competitions, sheep dog demonstrations, and music/dancing exhibitions 

• Celtic Groves open, and other music, history and food-related activities highlight the day 

• Children’s athletic competitions; cultural activities 

• Friday Night Celtic Rock Concert at MacRae Meadows 

Saturday, July 11 

• Amateur heavy athletic qualifying begins; competition begins for Highland Dancing Atlantic International Championship; piping, drumming, harp playing, Scottish athletic events, track & field events, sheep dog demonstrations, Scottish country dancing, Scottish fiddling, Scottish harp, Celtic Groves entertainment, Massed Bands performance, and other cultural activities 

• Saturday Night Celtic Jam Concert at MacRae Meadows 

Sunday, July 12 

• Scottish Heavy Athletic Demonstration & Clinic, Highland Dancing competition  

• Worship Service & Kirkin’ of the Tartan 

• Parade of Tartans, Guests of Honor & Distinguished Guests are introduced as all members of the sponsoring clans are invited to march in the parade 

• Highland Dance Championship Competition, Scottish athletic events, sheep dog demonstrations, kilted miles, children’s events, Scottish country dancing, Scottish fiddles and harps, piping competitions, Clan Tugs-of-War, Celtic Grove entertainment, history and cultural activities  

• Closing Ceremonies 

For tickets, maps, and information on lodging, parking and shuttle buses, visit the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games website at gmhg.org. And be sure to pick up the summer issue of CML for additional highlights of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games. 

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Find more happenings on our TIDBITS page>>

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Have an event for us to consider listing in a future issue of CML? Email your press release to CML’s Managing Editor at tamara@NCexplorers.com.

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Many other events will take place here in the High Country throughout the season. Some of the best resources for event listings and schedule changes are our local Chambers of Commerce and Tourism Development Associations. Be sure to visit the following websites before planning your visit to take advantage of all that our region has to offer.

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