Annual Events & Festivals

Surround yourself with fun in Georgia's Blue Ridge. Find out about our top annual festivals and events in Blue Ridge.

Fire and Ice Chili Cookoff - President's Day Weekend

Downtown Blue Ridge
Spice things up and chill out with this one-of-a-kind event that serves up the perfect combo of fiery chili, frosty beers, and stunning ice sculptures. It’s a sizzling and chilling good time

St. Patrick's Day Parade - Saturday Before the Holiday

Join the festive spirit in downtown Blue Ridge for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, where the streets come alive with vibrant green, cheerful music, and joyful community energy. Local businesses, civic groups, and families come together to showcase themed floats, costumes, and Irish pride. It’s a fun-filled celebration for all ages, complete with food vendors, live entertainment, and plenty of shamrocks and smiles. Don’t forget to wear your green and enjoy this lively tradition in the heart of the mountains!

Annual Blue Ridge Writers Conference - Early April

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association Art Center
Every Spring, Blue Ridge transforms into a haven for writers and aspiring authors, celebrating a cherished literary tradition. This unique cultural event invites creative minds to come together, share stories, and deepen their craft in an inspiring setting. Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just beginning your writing journey, it's the perfect place to spark imagination and hone your skills!

Annual Blue Ridge Trout and Outdoor Adventures Festival - Last Saturday in April

Downtown Blue Ridge

Dive into the world of trout fishing with engaging exhibits and educational sessions, try your hand at fly-tying with hands-on workshops, and let the kids explore fun activities tailored just for them. Enjoy live music that sets the perfect outdoor vibe, savor delicious bites from local food trucks and discover so much more in this action-packed event!

Spring Arts in the Park - Memorial Day Weekend

Downtown Blue Ridge
Features over 200 juried art, craft and food booths. The best in mountain crafts and fine art, artists demonstrations, music and dance. Recognized as one of the Top 20 Events by the Southeastern Tourism Society.

Blue Ridge Adventure Race - First Weekend in May

Spend the day in nature and navigate your way to hidden spots around the Blue Ridge Mountains during the Blue Ridge Adventure Race. Whether solo or in a team, participants will hike, bike, and paddle through scenic landscapes using only a map and compass.

Lake Blue Ridge Fireworks and Parade - July 4th

Celebrate a cherished Blue Ridge tradition at the Old Timer's Parade, a nostalgic event with classic cars, festive floats, and small-town charm. THe fun continues into the night with fabulous fireworks will light up the night sky near the Lake Blue Ridge Dam, offering incredible views from multiple locations. Whether you’re watching by boat on Lake Blue Ridge, relaxing at Morganton Point Recreation Area, or enjoying the festivities at Lake Blue Ridge Marina, you’re in for a treat.

The marina will be buzzing with activity all day, featuring delicious food available for purchase, so come hungry and ready to celebrate. Don’t miss this dazzling display over the lake!

Old Fashioned Fourth in McCaysville

Downtown McCaysville-Copperhill
Experience a classic small-town Independence Day celebration like no other! Enjoy a festive and fun day in downtown McCaysville-Copperhill, topped off with a dazzling fireworks display launched from iconic Tater Hill. Celebrate with community spirit, nostalgia, and a show that lights up the night sky!

Blue Ridge Kiwanis Rodeo - 3rd Weekend in August

Kiwanis Fairgrounds
Experience the thrill of bull riding, saddle bronc riding, calf roping, bareback, steer wrestling, team roping, and the high-speed excitement of barrel racing. Plus, enjoy special surprise events that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat!

Labor Day Barbeque

Downtown Blue Ridge
Get ready to indulge in mouthwatering food, enjoy live entertainment, and soak up the festive vibes with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this deliciously fun tradition—come early to grab your share of the feast!

Ride the Rails Festival - July, October & November

Mineral Bluff Depot
A five-mile round trip ride by railroad motor car traveling through the Iron Bridge over the beautiful Toccoa River, then returning over the bridge to the Historic Mineral Bluff Depot, a restored Railroad Depot housing a museum-quality model railroad display.

Blue Ridge Blues & Barbeque Festival - 3rd Weekend in September

Kick off an unforgettable weekend with the Kiwanis Blues Train on Friday night in Downtown Blue Ridge or at a special BBQ event at The Tavern at Old Toccoa Farm! Then, get ready for a Saturday packed with mouthwatering BBQ from the best food trucks around, along with plenty of snacks to satisfy every craving. The live music will keep your toes tapping as you feast and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss this perfect blend of smoky flavors, bluesy beats, and good vibes!

Fall Plein Aire Event

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
Each spring and fall, Blue Ridge transforms into a vibrant haven for artists from across the Southeast. These creative talents take to the outdoors, inspired by the breathtaking beauty of our mountain community. With each stroke of the brush, they capture the magic of the changing seasons, bringing nature's splendor to life in real-time. It's a celebration of art and the awe-inspiring landscapes that make Blue Ridge unforgettable!

Fall Foliage Train Rides

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Experience the vibrant hues of autumn on an unforgettable train ride this October and early November! Let the stunning fall foliage surround you as you embark on a scenic journey bursting with color and charm through Blue Ridge and into the historic town of McCaysville.

Fall Arts in the Park - 2nd Weekend of October

Downtown Blue Ridge
Explore a vibrant showcase of juried art, unique crafts, and delicious food booths. Discover the very best in mountain-inspired creations, from fine art to expertly crafted goods. Enjoy live artist demonstrations, toe-tapping music, and lively dance performances that make this event a true celebration of creativity and culture!

Blue Ridge Mountain Parades of Homes - October 17-19th

Explore 18 stunning homes, each showcasing a diverse range of styles from Craftsman and Mountain Modern to Industrial. Set against breathtaking landscapes of serene lakes, flowing rivers, and scenic vistas, every home offers a unique blend of inspired design and natural beauty.

PawsFest - 3rd Weekend of October

Downtown Blue Ridge
Bring your beloved pet for a day of fun and excitement! Enjoy a lively pet parade, engaging educational sessions, thrilling demonstrations, a costume contest with amazing prizes, photo opportunities, and so much more. It’s always a paw-some event!

Halloween Safe Zones

Downtown Blue Ridge and McCaysville

Expect a spooktacular time in downtown Blue Ridge and McCaysville! Enjoy a safe and festive Halloween celebration filled with treats, fun, and excitement for everyone. Kids of all ages can trick-or-treat from shop to shop, while Halloween costume contests showcase creative outfits for all ages—including your furry friends! Don’t miss this fang-tastic event!

Holiday Art Show & Sale - November-December

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
Shop for regional art and crafts at the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association Thanksgiving through Christmas.

Light Up McCaysville: Tree Lighting - Friday after Thanksgiving

Downtown McCaysville

Spark the holiday spirit along the scenic Toccoa River with festive fun, local eats, and a magical visit from Santa himself! Capture the moment with a family photo, then cozy up for the sunset tree lighting that wraps the evening in warm holiday cheer.

Light Up Blue Ridge & Christmas Parade - Saturday after Thanksgiving

Downtown Blue Ridge
Get ready for a day full of festive cheer, live music, delicious refreshments, and spirited caroling, along with a lineup of all-day activities for the whole family. Don’t miss the highlight of the day—a vibrant parade leading up to the grand lighting of the Christmas tree and a visit from Santa!

McCaysville & Copper Basin Annual Christmas Parade - First Saturday of December

Downtown McCaysville

Kick off the festive season with the annual Kiwanis Christmas Parade, where holiday cheer fills the air. Be there for Santa's grand arrival, enjoy delicious food and refreshments, and revel in live entertainment that will get everyone in the holiday spirit. The evening wraps up with a magical moment—the lighting of the iconic McCaysville Bridge.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Christmas Express - Beginning Thanksgiving Weekend and Weekends in December

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
All aboard the Holiday Express! Enjoy a festive train ride filled with holiday cheer where you'll meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their merry band of elves as they spread joy along the way. Listen to the timeless tale of The Night Before Christmas and sing along to your favorite carols. Kids will receive a keepsake Blue Ridge Scenic Railway jingle bell, a candy cane, and a magical visit with Santa himself. Warm up with delicious hot chocolate and tasty treats available in our cozy concession car.