BLUE RIDGE DIGEST - FALL 2019 ISSUE

the most widely distributed travel publication in the mountains

Blue Ridge & gReat Smoky mountainS

72 Hours in Beech Mountain

Fall Events at the Peaks of Otter

Five Fun

Fall Events in Hendersonville

Emerald Outback Beech Mountain

Listen to the bugle of the Smokies elk. Check out the fields next to the Oconaluftee Visitor in Cherokee or in the lowland fields along US 441 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Take a scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Clingmans Dome at the top of the Smokies with a 360-degree view from the observation tower. Or drive the Blue Ridge Parkway and stop at Waterrock Knob for a spectacular sunset view. Or investigate spooky tunnel on the Road to Nowhere out of Bryson City into the National Park.

Fall Events Are As Colorful As The Leaves

Fall colors appear first at the highest elevations and work their way down over a 5 to 6-week season. So, you should be able to find beautiful color no matter when you visit the North Carolina Smoky Mountains in the fall. Here are some great events and activities to enjoy.

Train Rides

Leave the driving to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad on the daily Leaf Looker” excursions to the Nantahala Gorge. Peanuts Pumpkin Patch Express. FridaySunday in October. Enjoy the ride, play games, pick out your own pumpkin & meet Charlie Brown, Lucy & Snoopy.

Festivals

SEPT 28: Mountain Heritage Day in Cullowhee

OCT 5: Colorfest in Dillsboro

OCT 5-6: October 5. Fall Arts & Crafts Festival at John C. Campbell Folk School

OCT 12: Smoky Mountain Fly Fishing Festival in Bryson City

OCT 18-19: Stecoah Valley Center Harvest Festival

OCT 26: Plow Day & Harvest Festival at Darnell Farms

Y ou will be able to find beautiful color no matter when you visit Bryson City in the North Carolina Smoky mountains.

Greatsmokies.com/fall

The grown-up sense of discovery at every turn around the mountain will only be surpassed by the childlike wonder our natural playground evokes.

www.grandfather.com

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN®

WONDERS NEVER CEASE

Even the smallest of us can be part of something very big.

Celebrate Scots Irish Heritage in Radford, VA

place more beautiful than Southwest Virginia in autumn and the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a beautiful back-drop for the fall festival.

We invite you to spend the first weekend in October in the beautiful highlands of Southwest Virginia and visit our historic city that runs alongside the New River, the second oldest river in the world. Take some time throughout your day to tour the university’s campus and meet our Radford family.

to enjoy the Scots-Irish heavyweight games. The Radford University campus will be alive with clan gatherings, diverse crafts, sheepherding demonstrations, children’s activities and music grounded in the rich heritage of both the ScotsIrish and the Appalachian region. Don’t miss the excitement! Make your plans today to attend!

To learn more, go to www.radford.edu/festival

Follow the skirl of bagpipes and make your way through Virginia’s scenic roads to Bisset Park on October 12, 2019 for the 22nd Radford Highlanders Festival.

The Radford Highlanders Festival has grown into one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.

The festival began in the mid1990s with an approximate crowd of 3,000. Over the past 20 years, the festival has more than tripled in size, and now attracts an estimated crowd of 10,000 people. Whether a family’s background is of Scots-Irish origin or of other descent, the day always brings with it an air of excitement and anticipation. There is no

You will be among the thousands anticipated to descend upon Radford’s Bisset Park for a day-long celebration of the region’s rich heritage. Come early and get a good seat on the risers

PAUSE A MOMENT.

The rich colors of fall are yours to explore at Peaks of Otter Lodge. With cool, comfortable temperatures, there’s no better time to get away to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Your hiker’s paradise awaits this autumn.

Marion, NC October 12, 2019

Where Main Street Meets The Mountains, Marion’s slogan aptly describing this thriving downtown neighborhood that is home to the 36th Annual Mountain Glory Festival. You’ll find three blocks filled with 140 vendors offering a variety of arts, crafts, foods, and entertainment.

This fall festival celebrates mountain culture and life in the rural south. Stop by the McDowell Arts Council to view the Mountain Glory Quilt Show. The exhibit is

on display during the month of October, featuring exquisite textile art created by local quilters.

The event takes place in Marion’s 310 District, a 3/10 mile retail area filled with locally-owned restaurants, specialty shops, microbrewery, meadery and more. Hang out and enjoy the flavors of The 310 District! If you’re interested in creating the perfect fall getaway, visit us online or call to request free visitor guides, maps, and materials.

www.blueridgetravelers.com 888-233-6111

P.O. Box 1758

Asheville, NC 28802

Phone: (828) 691-5437

www.blueridgedigest.com

All articles and information supplied are printed accurately to the best knowledge of the management. The Blue Ridge Digest is not responsible for errors beyond its control.

THANKS TO THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY ASSOCIATION FOR THE USE OF THEIR CENTER-SPREAD MAP

Publisher: Thomas Hardy tomhardy@blueridgedigest.com

Design: Imagewerks Productions

Need good design? Call (828) 681-8029

Old Town Winchester, VA

Welcoming visitors with warm hospitality for over 250 years, Old Town Winchester hosts over 30 restaurants, 60 shops and numerous historic sites and museums. With a beautiful pedestrian mall, shopping in Old Town Winchester is an experience to be savored.

buffs may want to take a guided walking tour featuring beautiful architecture and local history.

Old Town Winchester is located within the heart of our 45-block National Register Historic District and features a quaint pedestrian walking mall bursting with outdoor cafes, fun shops, specialty retail shops and family-oriented activities throughout the year. The Loudoun Street Pedestrian Mall has earned a listing on the National Register of Historic Places Travel Itinerary as a place that successfully combines history, century old buildings and museums with the vitality of an ideal downtown.

Old Town Welcome Center

Attractions where you can pick up an issue of The Blue Ridge Digest on your next trip in the mountains in addition to most all visitor centers

Frontier Culture Museum Staunton, VA

Grandfather Mountain Linville, NC

Linville Caverns Linville Falls, NC

Mast General Store Waynesville, NC

Mystery Hill Blowing Rock, NC

North Carolina Arboretum Asheville, NC

Northwest Trading Post

Glendale Springs, NC

Peaks of Otter Lodge Blue Ridge Parkway Bedford, VA

Pisgah Inn Blue Ridge

Parkway Waynesville, NC

VA Transportation Museum Roanoke, VA

Shopping and Dining

An eclectic mix of antiques, fine furnishings, gift items, local and regional works of art and fine clothing. Also, enjoy a variety of restaurants featuring outdoor cafe dining, or dine in and enjoy the ambiance of our many historic settings.

Museums & History

A visit to Old Town Winchester would not be complete without a stop at Stonewall Jackson’s Headquarters Museum, George Washington’s Office Museum, the Old Courthouse Civil War Museum, and the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum. History

Whether you are new to Winchester, a treasured guest for a day or a week, or a native hoping to rediscover your past – come to Old Town Winchester to tour, shop, dine, wander, relax, revel, and experience the best that Winchester has to offer. When visiting downtown Winchester, be sure to visit the Welcome Center at 33 E. Boscawen Street, Winchester, VA 22601.

(540) 535-3660 or www.winchesterva.gov

Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail Mountain Region

34 loops through the Blue Ridge, Allegheny, and Cumberland Moun tains help you explore the expansive vistas, scenic overlooks, back roads, forests, reservoirs, and rivers of the Appalachians. Look for over 20 species of warblers, migrating hawks, owls, and grouse. Additional wildlife includes black bear and white-tailed deer. During your travels, be sure to enjoy the unique Appalachian food, music and culture.

More information & maps, www.dgif.virginia.gov/vbwt

72 Hours in Beech Mountain

Beech Mountain is often heralded as a premier winter destination in the Southeast. Despite its snowy reputation, Beech Mountain continues to offer a full roster of events and activities all year long. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains where temperatures seldom surpass 79 degrees, this quaint and quirky mountain town is conveniently located in driving distance from many of the South’s biggest metropolitan cities, making it an ideal weekend getaway to ensure visitors can savor vacation days. Take fall to the next level and choose from thrilling mountain bike trails, scenic chair lift rides over picturesque landscapes, and more – your 72 hours starts now!

Emerald Outback Calling all thrill-seekers and outdoorenthusiasts!

Beech Mountain’s best-kept secret, the Emerald Outback offers nearly seven miles of alluring and challenging trails for hiking, biking and running. Lift access is available Friday through Sunday for bikers to bring their mountain bikes up to the summit by way of the Beech Mountain Resort’s chair lifts for a thrilling race down the mountain or for hikers seeking the famed 50-mile vista of scenic overlook. For a unique view of the mountain’s spectacular fall colors

from above, grab a lift ticket and take a scenic chair lift ride up and down Beech Mountain. Available on select days throughout the summer and fall, the round-trip lift ride takes visitors up to the town’s highest elevation to capture panoramic views of the stunning and ever-changing foliage. Those who enjoy spotting wildlife while taking in the fall scenery are in for a treat. Beech Mountain is the highest elevation on the North Carolina Birding Trail and is home to approximately 127 bird species throughout the year.

Guests can always count on finding the perfect cozy accommodations on Beech Mountain. For those looking to stay close to the festivities, the Four Seasons at Beech is a conveniently located one

mile from the biking trails at Beach Mountain Resort, local bars and the famous Fred’s General Mercantile Store. For a more low-key stay, Beech Alpen Inn offers guests a perfect balance of old-world charm and Southern hospitality. Top of the Beech Inn is a perfect basecamp for visitors who want to experience it all. Guests staying in the relaxed Inn can take advantage of a shuttle that transports guests directly to all of the action at Beech Mountain Resort, in addition to discount packages for tickets and rentals all the while soaking up breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

For more information about Beech Mountain, beechmtn.com

Touted as the highest town in Eastern America, Beech Mountain is bustling with activities for every type of adventurer.

Toast the Harvest along

the Hendersonville Cheers! Trail

The Hendersonville Cheers! Trail is the only trail in North Carolina that includes wine, cider, beer and mead. Fall means harvest season for the wineries and cideries. It’s an exciting time to visit the tasting rooms and tour the production facilities as apples head to the press to be turned into cider and grape clusters move to the crush pad for the first step in the winemaking process.

Bold Rock Hard Cider chose its

location in rural Mills River based on the abundance of apples. Take a tour of the state-of-the-art cidery and follow the process from start to finish. Smell the sweet aroma of apple juice in the pressing barn, hear the clinking of glass as bottles are filled and capped, and then step into the tasting room for a sip of the freshly made product.

At Appalachian Ridge Artisan Cider, the tasting room is located in a renovated barn in the middle of an apple orchard. The back porch overlooks rows of French apple trees that the owner specially selected for making the crisp, dry European-style cider. Visitors get a bird’s-eye view of the harvest at Burntshirt Vineyards

We’ve Been Outsiders Since 1791

as the patio looks across 19 acres of grape vines. The winery and barrel room are quite the showplace. Complimentary daily tours take place at 2 p.m. Don’t miss the apple wine, a nod to the area’s heritage made with Henderson County apples.

To download a Cheers! Trail map and start your tasting journey, go to www.CheersTrail.org.

Come explore Patrick County, Virginia. Picnics at a covered bridge or along the Blue Ridge Parkway, canoe rides, traditional mountain music, artisan studios, local wineries, bed and breakfasts, camping, hiking, mountain biking, and fishing are just a few of the attractions awaiting you. From the rugged outdoors to 5-star luxury, there is so much to discover in Patrick County. www.visitpatrickcounty.org

Floyd County, VA Fall Happenings 2019

Located atop the magnificent Blue Ridge Plateau in southwestern Virginia, Floyd is a haven of natural beauty renowned for our hospitality and for a vibrant culture of music, arts, local foods and spirits, and outdoor recreation. With near 40 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Fall is a wonderful time to visit.

SAMPLING OF MAJOR EVENTS:

Sat. Sept 7

Floyd Radio Show & Floyd Americana Festival

Sat. Sept 14

Finding Harmony Home

Art Studio Sale

Sat. Sept 14

Floyd County Fair & Healthy

Floyd 5K Run/Walk

Sat. Sept 14

Unwind Your Mind- Gourmet

Wine & Food Tasting

Sat. Sept 21

Buses at Chantilly – VW Bus Campout & Concert Tribute to Journey

Sat. Sept 28

Stakeout Events Blue Ridge Bike Rally

Sat/Sun Oct 5 & 6

Floyd Arts & Crafts Festival

Sun, Nov 3

Tour De Dirt – Grave

Road Bicycle Tour

Thanksgiving weekend

16 Hands Art Tour

WEEKLY:

Music is happening in season every Thursday through Sunday

Floyd Country Store, Friday Night Jamboree, Saturday afternoon American Afternoon music 12-3pm, Sunday afternoon music Jams. Watch for special Saturday night events

Wildwood Farm General Store has free bluegrass music every Saturday night, music Jams every 1st & 3rd Sunday afternoons

Dogtown Roadhouse features music Friday, Saturday & Sunday evenings

Buffalo Mountain Brewery – hosts free music most nights Thursday through Saturday.

Hotel Floyd Music in the Moun tains Concert Series – Thursday evenings through October 17

Special Consensus at The Floyd Country Store

Fall fishing is Great in Jackson County, N.C.

Home of the N.C. Trout Capital & WNC Fly Fishing Trail

Photo courtesy of Matt Canter/Brookings Outfitters.

When steamy summer days end and cooler fall weather begins, the fishing is still prime in Jackson County, N.C. The home of the N.C. Trout Capital and the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail is still a hot spot for fishing in the mountains.

You will find seven fly fishing guide companies that can assist you in the effort, all of which are

members of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. The chamber was the leading force behind the N.C. Trout Capital and WNC Fly Fishing Trail effort.

The chamber also maintains the N.C. Trout Capital Facebook page and website (www.nctroutcapital. com) and the WNC Fly Fishing Trail website (www.flyfishingtrail. com) and Facebook page. The

chamber and Jackson County Tourism Development Authority team up to distribute the popular WNC Fly Fishing Trail map as well. Between now and January of 2020 the fly fishing trail waters of the Tuckaseigee River will be restocked and primed for excellent fall fishing. “The Tuck,” as locals call it is stocked with more fish than any other river in N.C. The

state record rainbow trout was also hooked in Jackson County. Jackson County is also home to some great lake fishing spots as well, including Lakes Glenville, Bear, and Cedar Cliff, just to name a few.

For more information, visit the NC Trout Capital website or WNC Fly Fishing Trail websites or Facebook pages mentioned above.

5 SCENIC DRIVES IN THE BOONE AREA FOR FALL

Finding the perfect views to catch peak foliage in the Boone Area is easy. These scenic drives below will help you choose the best places to see nature’s display.

Blue Ridge Parkway -- Along “America’s Favorite Drive” in N.C.’s northern Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll experience both the region’s early history as well as its scenic beauty. From E. B. Jeffress Park (milepost 272) to Linville Falls Recreation Area (milepost 316) and beyond, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers beautiful photographic spots, and opportunities to hear the leaves rustle underfoot as you hike to historic log structures, lakes, and waterfalls. Accessible from mileposts 277-294, Boone is at the heart of the Blue Ridge Parkway’s Highland Region.

North Carolina Scenic Byways -U.S. Hwy. 421 (Doc & Merle Watson Highway) - (8 miles) This section of Hwy. 421 spans from the Blue Ridge Parkway bridge in Deep Gap, near the home of the late Doc and Merle Watson, to the town limits of Boone, at the South Fork of the New River, one of the first American Heritage Rivers. Views along the way include those of Snake Mountain and Elk Knob, part of the Amphibolite Range.

Mission Crossing - (17 miles) If you follow Hwy. 421 N. through Boone and toward Vilas, you will come to the

intersection with N.C. Hwy. 194 S., near the Vilas Post Office. Turn onto 194 and head toward Valle Crucis, N.C.'s first Rural Historic District and the home of the Original Mast General Store. From Valle Crucis, 194 S. will continue up a narrow, winding two-lane highway past the historic Holy Cross Episcopal Church (ca. 1842) climbing toward Matney, Banner Elk and Elk Park in the Elk River Valley. Little Parkway - (18 miles) U.S. Highway 221, or the old Yonahlossee Trail as it was once called, parallels the Blue Ridge Parkway between Linville and Blowing Rock. Nearby features

include Price Lake, Linville Falls, Grandfather Mountain State Park, the Linn Cove Viaduct, historic Westglow Resort, and Moses Cone Estate. New River Valley Byway - (32 miles) From Hwy. 421 just east of downtown Boone, turn onto Hwy. 194 N., also known as Jefferson Highway. Follow 194 through the New River Valley to the communities of Meat Camp and Todd. Nearby features include Snake Mountain and Elk Knob State Park. America's oldest river, the New River, begins near Boone. In Todd, what once was a bustling railroad town is now a popular fishing spot. Contin-

ue to follow 194 to Hwy. 221 and the towns of West Jefferson and Jefferson, settled in 1803. The byway route resumes north of Jefferson, on Hwy. 88 toward Laurel Springs. From there you can return to Boone by driving south on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visit N.C. Scenic Byways for more information. Go to www.ncdot.gov. Follow any of these routes and you are guaranteed to see glorious fall color along the way. Fall leaf-changing season in Boone is generally October 5th through the 25th, with peak color occurring October 10-20. Highest elevations near Grandfather Mountain and near Elk Knob change first. Weekdays are a good bet for less crowded times.

For more ideas: ExploreBoone.com.

Stroll the streets of Dillsboro in the holiday spirit for the annual Lights and Luminaries Festival.

The 36th annual Festival of Lights and Luminaries returns the first and second Fridays and Saturdays of December, which are Dec. 6 & 7 and 13 & 14 from 5-9 p.m.

There will be over 2,500 white lights adorning the historic buildings, and the flickering flames of luminaries softening the shadows of the streets. Excitement will abound as the merchants of Dillsboro open their doors to visitors.

Each night shops will stay open late providing free refreshments like hot chocolate and cider. Visitors will enjoy musicians

and singers performing holiday carols in individual shops. Enjoy old-fashioned horse and buggy rides (weather permitting). Children can share their wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Workshop or snap a picture with Rudolph and Santa’s elves, who are walking throughout the town. With retail shops offering a variety of arts

and crafts, antiques, jewelry and specialty Christmas items, the festival provides a unique holiday shopping experience.

Friday, Dec. 6, is Western Carolina University and Southwestern Community College Night. Students and faculty are invited to enjoy special discounts (with ID)

Free parking and shuttle transportation for the event will be available at Monteith Park each night of the festival. While at Monteith Park, take time to tour the Appalachian Women’s Museum

before or after your shuttle ride. All Dillsboro restaurants will be open, so come for an early family meal. Jarrett Memorial Church will be open to the public and will serve as a drop off point for canned items that will be given to local charitable organizations. Dillsboro is located in the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina at the intersection of US Hwys. 19/74 and 441.

For more information, visit www.visitdillsboro.org.

Photo by Kelly Donaldson/Jackson County Chamber of Commerce

HIGH COUNTRY FALL LEAF COLOR PREDICTION

Fall Peak Leaf Color in the High Country region of the NC Mountains can be found from late September to early November thanks to the varying elevations. Use our helpful peak leaf prediction breakdown and links to current foliage reports to help you plan your trip to the mountains this fall.

PEAK LEAF COLOR FORECAST BY ELEVATION

Leaf color prediction forecasts are done based on elevation. Higher elevations will see color earlier due to the cooler temperatures. Some things to consider that effect leaf color is the amount of rain, wind and heat received during September and October. That is something we cannot predict! Here is breakdown by elevation: Last Week of September6,000 Elevation (Mt Mitchell, Grandfather Mountain)

1st Week of October- 5,000 Elevation (Beech Mountain, Rough Ridge Trail BRP MP 302.9)

2nd Week of October- 4,000 Elevation (Banner Elk, Jumpingoff Rocks Trail BRP MP 260.3)

3rd Week of October- 3,000 Elevation (Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, Price Lake BRP MP 297)

4th Week of October- 2,000 Elevation (Wilkesboro, Stone Mountain State Park, Yadkin Valley Overlook BRP MP 289.8)

CURRENT 2019 FALL LEAF COLOR REPORTS

Here is a list of websites that are updated daily or weekly with current fall color conditions that can help you plan your trip:

ASU FALL COLOR GUY

Read weekly fall color reports written by Appalachian State University’s Department of Biology. You can also view his Fall Color Map and essays on the science of fall leaf color.

FOLIAGE NETWORK

View a weekly updated SouthEast regional map of current fall color conditions.

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN

Starting September 20th, the most popular outdoor attraction of the High Country will start posting daily photos of the current fall color! This is a great way to gauge the color change along the High Country section of the Blue Ridge Parkway!

FALL LOVERS LEAGUE of the HIGH COUNTRY

This FaceBook Group has updated from visitors, visitor centers and locals on where to view the best color,

Check out: MountainsofNC.com

Great Rally location with lots of local restaurants & attractions.

Fall Events at the PEAKS OF OTTER Milepost 86 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

9/15/19, 5:00 PM Jefferson at the Peaks

Discover one of Virginia’s most legendary landscapes, Sharp Top Mountain, with one of the most legendary Virginians - Thomas Jefferson! Overnight and dinner only rates are available. Reservations are required; call 866-387-9905.

9/22/19, 2:00 PM

2019 Peaks of Otter Free Music Concert Series

and Bedford. Henry Boitnott sings back-up vocals and plays mandolin and guitar in the group but is also a fine banjo player. Henry, along with his wife Judy, and Cammie Collier, were the founding members of Virginia Carolina in 1998. Judy sings lead and back-up vocals and plays bass with the group. Bob is the newest member of the band and plays guitar. Harvey sings lead and back-up vocals and plays banjo for the group but also plays mandolin, guitar and bass. Click the link below for full event details.

10/5/19, 8:00 PM

The Lives of the Stars

edge of Abbott Lake to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts! A jacket is recommended and a flashlight is helpful.

11/16/19, 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Poplar Forest’s Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival

returns to Poplar Forest. The festival, which celebrates Jefferson’s legacy as the father of Virginia wine, features tastings from over a dozen of Virginia’s finest wineries. Funds raised by the festival support the ongoing restoration, preservation and interpretation of the Founding Father’s secluded Bedford County retreat. Enjoy a 15% discount when you stay two nights at the Peaks of Otter Lodge during the festival! Visit the Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival Package page for full package and festival link details at: www.peaksofotter.com/stay/ packages-and-deals/wine-festival

Eat,

People have visited the Peaks of Otter for the past 8,000 years. Stop by Abbott Lake this summer to continue the tradition and enjoy a free music concert nestled under the three Peaks of Otter. This concert date features The Virginia-Carolina Band. The Virginia-Carolina Band is a traditional blue grass and gospel music band made up on four musicians from Roanoke

Join Greg Redfern, an adjunct professor/instructor of astronomy since 1984 and a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador since 2003, for engaging presentations about outer space! How do the stars, including our Sun, shine? How are they born, how do they live, and - ultimatelydie? You’ll never look at the stars the same after you learn their secrets.

• “ The Peaks Under the Stars” - If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to the lawn area at the

There are also less strenuous trails for the uninitiated. And lots of shops and galleries for people who like to walk around indoors. 800.852.9506 ExploreBoone.com

drink, shop and explore a gem of American history when the Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival

Book tour for Kim Michele Richardson & The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

Sparta is on her schedule as a “mountain stop” and will be her only small town appearance this fall.

Novelist Kim Michele Richardson brings The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek to the edge of the Appalachians and the heart of the Blue Ridge Parkway on Thursday, September 26, when she visits the Alleghany Public Library in Sparta, NC, for a 5:30pm reception, and a 6pm presentation.

Ms. Richardson’s novel was inspired by the blue-skinned people of Kentucky and the Kentucky Pack Horse Library Project of the 1930’s. A Kentucky native, Richardson explores the state in her books, writing human stories set in a unique landscape she describes as, “the beautiful, brutal and mysterious Kentucky land and its people.” The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek was selected as an Oprah’s Buzziest Books, May, 2019 Pick.

There will be a 5:30pm reception in the Duncan Meeting Room followed by a 6pm public reading and slide show. A discussion will follow, and books will be available. The event is free and open to the public.

Ghost Tours Visit Mount Airy’s Local Haunts Through November

On Friday and Saturday nights through the last weekend of November, experience a spine-tingling lantern-lit walk through Mount Airy, North Carolina.

Historic Mount Airy Downtown Ghost Tours are organized by the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History and “dearly depart” from the museum on Main Street at 8 p.m. Enjoy thrills and chills during a 90-minute walking tour of Mount Airy’s streets and its historic past.

The route connects with 13 of Mount Airy’s “less mortal” friends, while exploring the final resting places of many of them. Over the course of its long and proud history, Mount Airy has its share of unexplained occurrences, like people feeling a bump from an invisible person when walking by the entrance to the former Turnmyer’s Drug Store, where Mr. Turnmyer was gunned down in broad daylight in 1967 by a man named Jack Frost Timmons.

Yes indeed, these popular ghost tours provide a different view of Andy Griffith’s hometown, which is affectionately known as “Mayberry.”

“Whether you believe the ghost stories or not, there’s a healthy dose of local history,” says Kate Rauhauser-Smith, visitor services manager for the museum. “The stories themselves are entertaining – why is Mount Airy here, the history of buildings, people and the region. It’s a fun way to spend 90 minutes.”

The tours are led by docents from the museum and space is available for two 20-person tours every night. The museum limits the size to 20 people per guide so everyone can hear the presentation.

Tickets are $15 per person and pre-paid reservations are required. The tours are held regardless of rain. If the rain is heavy, or there are dangerous conditions, tours are moved inside to the historic three-story museum.

I don’t know if there are ghosts, but I think there is something,” says Rauhauser-Smith. “Something you sense, not something that’s blatant and in your face, coming out of the mirror at you or anything like that.”

Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring cameras and umbrellas, if needed.

For info or to purchase tickets, call 336-786-4478 or go online to: www.NorthCarolinaMuseum.org

MP  324.8

Spruce  Pine,

When the leaves begin to change colors, do you long for a change of scenery?

Look no farther than Pigeon Forge, Tennessee in the foothills of the beautiful Smoky Mountains.

Home to great shows, attractions and restaurants, Pigeon Forge offers plenty to do for all ages along with some of the area’s most majestic mountain views. Once the fall foliage begins to spread its brilliant colors across the Smokies, Pigeon Forge welcomes visitors with special events and activities

Fall’s a Ball in Pigeon Forge! Fall’s a Ball in Pigeon Forge!

that celebrate the harvest season.

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival offers Southern gospel music, crafters and Great Pumpkin Luminights Sept. 27 through Nov. 2.

At Old Mill Heritage Day on Sept. 28, visitors will find quilt demonstrations, a petting zoo, children’s train rides, basket making, a farmers’ market and much more. The 18th century comes to life with demonstrations for lye soap, apple butter, sorghum and moonshine making. The event is free and includes tours of the Old Mill along

with special musical entertainment. Handmade crafts let shoppers get a headstart on their Christmas shopping at the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Crafts Fair located under the big tent in Old Mill Square Sept. 28 through Oct. 26. Beginning at 4 pm. on Oct. 31, Halloween at The Island in Pigeon Forge welcomes guests of all ages to this family-friendly event. Trick or treating is from 5 to 8 p.m. and all-day half-priced unlimited rides for those in costume make this one of the season’s most anticipated events. Parking for The Island

is free as is the shuttle ride to and from the parking lot. Make plans now to attend these special events and don’t forget to see a show at one of several theaters. Afterward, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in Pigeon Forge with both casual or fine dining options. With more than 14,500 overnight accommodations to choose from, you can easily extend your stay into a long weekend.

For more information on these and other fall events in Pigeon Forge, please visit MyPigeonForge.com.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Fried Green Tomatoes

Don’t Miss!

North Carolina's Only Caverns!

Sprouting Wings

The Appalachian Mural Trail recently added the “Angel Wings” mural in West Jefferson to their expanding trail of noteworthy art murals. Participatory murals are extremely popular throughout the world and the mural trail group was looking to find one.

“When a ‘selfie’ photo was uploaded to our muralspotting.com site of a young lady placed in front of angel wings, we knew it needed to be a part of the mural trail,” says Doreyl Ammons Cain, Director of the mural trail. “We found the artist, Raney Rogers, and asked her to tell the story of the mural.”

“I have always loved angels, says Raney Rogers. “The stories that surround them, the meaning they have, that they “watch over us” and can intervene in our lives in as many ways as one can imagine and more. Angels can save our lives and bring us comfort at our time of deepest despair. “

Raney continues… “When a friend sent a photo of the angel wings an artist painted on a wall in Florida, where the nightclub disaster occurred, I was very touched by how art could bring comfort in the image of an angel. It certainly did to those affected by the incident and it did to me when I saw it. So I decided to start looking for a wall in West Jefferson. The point being that everyone could become an “angel”

for a moment, or show their angelic side. The best wall of all appeared right beside the Hotel Tavern. The wall was actually a picket fence so I painted the mural on outdoor cement board and erected the real “wall” myself, with help.

I began to tell friends about what I was doing and they were excited and wanted to have a memorial block - some for loved ones and some for themselves so I began to build a block wall. Word spread and those who had ties to Ashe County called and requested a block and sometimes two. Then I started hearing the stories people were telling about their loved ones - how much they meant to them and even sometimes how they died. It was very special to them to have a place that they could visit which could make them feel closer to that person. Others wanted to put their own names on the blocks as a sort of...”I was here” kind of thing for the future.

The very best part is watching people take each other’s pictures in front of the wings. Standing there changes you for a moment. You can see it in the faces. Some will strike poses and they all look so grand with the wings spread out behind them. They lend a grace and beauty to the individual.

Interested in sprouting some wings? Find directions to the “Angel Wings” mural at muraltrail.com. You’ll also find over 85 other storytelling murals that you just have to visit!

Fall Weekend Getaway you Cannot Miss!

Create a full day or fall weekend itinerary with a drive through the northern portion of Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. Then, after taking in the fall beautiful views, take a short scenic drive into Shenandoah County, home to six unique and beautiful historic towns with plenty to offer. Dine fresh like the locals do, at fabulous restaurants and cafes, or stop in at a roadside farmers market for perfectly in-season flavors. Visit an award-winning vineyards or breweries for a relaxing afternoon.

If you prefer more activity, Shenandoah County has 178 miles of great hiking trails throughout the George Washington National Forest, back roads for biking, and public river access to launch a canoe or kayak. Get the best of what rural Virginia has to offer: History and Genealogy Extreme sports and leisurely strolls Unique attractions, antiques and artisan studios Charming Bed and Breakfasts and rustic camping Agricultural traditions with

the freshest dining and markets

Strasburg to Shenandoah National Park Entrance at Front Royal via US 55- 14.1 miles/23 minutes Skyline Drive Front Royal to Thornton Gap

(near Luray) - 30.7 miles/51 minutes Thornton Gap Entrance Station to New Market via US211- 23.8 miles/ 34 minutes Summer Weekend Getaway you Cannot Miss!

For more information: www.visitshenandoahcounty.com

Sothingforeveryonefromyoungtoold. putonyourhikingboots,saddleyourhorse,or glideoutonyourcanoe;howeveryouarelookingto relax,SurryCountyhasanexperiencewaitingforyou. ofFromthetopofPilotMountaintothetroutstreams ComewesternSurry,we’llmakeyoufeelrightathome. heaven.loseyourselfinourlittlepatchofoutdoor Weguaranteeyou’llneverforgetit!

Tolearnmore,Visit http://yadkinvalleync.com/ Surry County Natural Resources Committee

“America’s

Apples featured on Skyline Drive Fall Menus

During September, the Pollock Dining Room at Skyland Resort and the Spottswood Dining Room at Big Meadows Lodge will be an apple lover’s dream with apples creatively included on the menus by Executive Chefs Paul Lombardy and William Taylor and Sous Chef Heather Cash.

Traditional favorites include Apple Bacon Pancakes with Hard

Cider Syrup; Spinach Salad with Apples, Pecans, Onions and Goat Cheese; Apple Cider Vinaigrette; Baked Brie with Spiced Apples, Walnut Sauce and Sliced Baguette; Chicken Breast Sandwich with Caramel Apple BBQ and Smoked Gouda; Pan Seared Pork Loin with Caramelized Apple and Fennel Sauce; Apple Cider

Brined Roast Chicken with Cider Glazed Cipiolinni Onions, Sage and Bacon; Roasted Duck with Apple

Harrisonburg History & Historic Places

Harrisonburg has its own interesting past and has been witness to many of our nation’s most historic events. Previously known as “Rocktown,” Harrisonburg was named for Thomas Harrison who settled in the Shenandoah Valley in 1737 and eventually deeded acres in the area which is now known as Historic Downtown Harrisonburg. Harrisonburg and the surrounding area played significant roles in the American Civil War with lots of battlefields and cemeteries located within a short drive. However long before the Civil War, pioneers were migrating from Virginia and the northeast on their way to settle the rest of the continent. Many traveled along the Wilderness Road Migration Route, which roughly follows modern day Route 11 and I-81. Catch up on your history in Harrisonburg!

More information at www.visitharrisonburgva.com

Butter; Baked Apple Stuffed with Walnut and Brie, Flambéed; Apple Muffins; Fresh Berry and Apple Salad with an Apple Honey Vinaigrette. Skyland Resort is located at mile 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive and Big Meadows Lodge is located at mile 51 in Shenandoah National Park. (Please note there are no reservations; all dining is first-come, first-serve.)

And, don’t miss the 15th Annual Apple Butter Celebration on Saturday, September 20, 2014. At Skyland Lodge. The event will go on, rain or shine from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Freshly made apple butter, apple crafts, apple food …. apples

will be everywhere! The undisputed star of the festival, however, is the spicy apple butter stirred in giant copper kettles all day long.

The traditional harvest festival will be accompanied by wine tastings, pony rides, children’s crafts, and live entertainment featured throughout the day. Featured food includes Apple Smoked Pork BBQ, Grilled Chicken with Apple Salsa, Granny Apple Cole Slaw, Apple Cobbler, and Hot & Cold Apple Cider. Virginia wine and cider tastings will also be available

More details: 877-313-2586 or www.goshenandoah.com

Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands | Oct 17-20, 2019

In its 72nd year, the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands returns to downtown Asheville’s U.S. Cellular Center. Filling both the concourse and arena levels of the venue, makers exhibit a variety of craft ranging from contemporary to traditional in works of clay, wood, metal, glass, fiber, natural materials, paper, leather, mixed media, and jewelry.

2019 Featured Maker: Zan Barnes. “Every dish that passed through my hands as a child was made by my father. Pottery was never the untouched piece on the top shelf of the china cabinet; it was the much loved mug that you dig for every morning because somehow the coffee

just tastes better out of that one. I want my work to have that same immediacy of being handled or interacted with every day of someone’s life. When I love a piece of pottery, my first instinct is to pick it up, touch it, feel it, see how it fits in my hand, talk to it on the most intimate level, skin to skin. I can wish for nothing more than for my work to invite that same easy interaction.”

Celebrate her talent with us this year at the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands! US Cellular Center | 87 Haywood Street | Downtown Asheville, NC 828.298.7928 or craftguild.org/craftfairsh

For a few glorious weeks, autumn crowns the Smoky Mountains with spectacular color. It’s a sight well worth traveling to see – especially when you take a few roads less traveled. This year consider an alternative scenic drive with plenty of foliage on one of Sevierville, Tennessee’s three self-guided fall driving tours and stick around for great harvest-themed events.

Peak season for leaf viewing is typically mid-October through

mid-November. For those seeking a fall experience they’ve not enjoyed before, Sevierville’s three self-guided fall foliage tours offer little known points of interest and beautiful views. Sevierville’s newest tour travels Boyd’s Creek and includes an old schoolhouse, a historic plantation and a molasses mill. Points of interest along other tours include historical cemeteries, the Dolly Parton statue and a covered bridge. All three

ENJOY THE FALL SEASON IN SEVIERVILLE, TN

fall driving tours can be found online at VisitSevierville.com/fall.

Harvest events are yet another reason to put Sevierville on your fall travel list. Bluegrass music is the soundtrack of fall and the Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival (September 19-21) features original, live bluegrass music from fifteen national and regional acts including Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, Lonesome River Band and more. Catch more mountain music (and fine arts) at Robert Tino’s Smoky Mountain Homecoming Festival (October 4-6).

When the days get shorter, the harvest season really comes to life with thousands of carved and illuminated jack-o-lanterns

GO

during Dollywood’s Harvest Festival and Great Pumpkin LumiNights (September 27-November 2).

Live music, award-winning rides, and delicious fall treats make Dollywood a must-see this fall.

Sevierville’s newest fall event is History & Haunts in downtown Sevierville. Guided historical walking tours, live music and fun harvest-themed activities make Saturday evenings in October the perfect time to head downtown for family-friendly fun (October 5, 12, 19, 26 from 5pm-9pm).

Start planning your fall getaway now at VisitSevierville.com/fall.

SHENANDOAH

Shenandoah National Park in fall is a leaf peeper’s paradise. With cooler temperatures comes the opportunity to see the woodlands of the Blue Ridge Mountains in countless colors. You can conveniently base your getaway right inside the park by staying at Skyland, Big Meadows Lodge or Lewis Mountain Cabins. Whether you’re hiking, observing wildlife or just relaxing, fall at Shenandoah is something to behold.

877.313.2586

goshenandoah.com

Hospitality managed by Delaware North

The Blue Ridge Digest can be found at these regional visitor’s centers!

GEORGIA

Blairsville/Union CoUnty ChamBer

129 Union County Rec Rd. • Blairsville, GA 30512; (706) 745-5789

www.blairsvillechamber.com

Fannin CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe

152 Orvin Lance Drive • Blue Ridge, GA 30513 • (706) 632-5680

www.blueridgemountains.com

raBUn CoUnty WelCome Center 232 Hwy 441 North, POB 750 Clayton, Georgia 30525; (706) 782-4812 www.gamountains.com/rabun

toWns CoUnty visitor Center 1411 Jack Dayton Circle Young Harris, GA 30582

(706) 896-4966 • www.mountaintopga.com

NORTH CAROLINA

alleghany Co. ChamBer oF CommerCe 58 S. Main, POB 1237 BRD Sparta, NC 28675; (800) 372-5473 www.sparta-nc.com

andreWs rest stop 50 Cover St / US 19 Andrews, NC 28902 www.visitcherokeecounty.com

ashe CoUnty ChamBer & visitor Center 1 N. Jefferson Ave, P.O. Box 31 West Jefferson, NC 28694

(336) 846-9550 • www.ashechamber.com

avery CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe 4501 Tynecastle Hwy • Unit 2 Banner Elk, NC 28604; (800) 972-2183 www.averycounty.com

Banner elk visitor Center 100 Main Street West, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-8395 www.bannerelk.org

BeeCh moUntain ChamBer oF CommerCe 403A Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mtn, NC 28604; (800) 468-5506 www.beechmtn.com

BlaCk moUntain ChamBer oF CommerCe 201 E. State St., Black Mountain, NC 28711; (828) 669-2300

BloWing roCk ChamBer oF CommerCe 132 Park Ave • Blowing Rock NC 28605 (800) 295-7851 www.blowingrockncchamber.com

BlUe ridge parkWay visitor Center 195 Hemphill Knob Rd Asheville, NC 28803 828-298-5330

Boone area ChamBer oF CommerCe 870 W King St. Suite A, Boone, NC 28607; (828) 264-2225 • www.VisitBooneNC.com

Bryson City ChamBer oF CommerCe

210 Main Street • Bryson City, NC 28713; (800) 867-9246 • www.greatsmokies.com

BUrke CoUnty travel & toUrism

110 E. Meeting Street Morganton, NC 28655; (828) 433-6793

CaldWell CoUnty visitor Center

1909 Hickory Blvd. SE Lenoir, NC 28645; (828) 726-0616

Cashiers area ChamBer oF CommerCe

202 U.S. 64, POB 238 BRD Cashiers, NC 28717; (828) 743-5191 www.cashiers-nc.com

CataWBa CoUnty visitor Center 1055 Southgate Parkway SW Hickory, NC 28602 (828) 328-6111

Cherokee CoUnty visitor Center 20 Tennessee Street Murphy, NC 28906 828-557-2583 www.visitcherokeecountync.com

Cherokee CoUnty WelCome Center 805 W. US 64 Murphy, NC 28906; (828) 837-2242 www.cherokeecountychamber.com

Cherokee WelCome Center P.O. Box 460 • 498 Tsalis Rd. Cherokee, NC 28719; (800) 438-1601 www.cherokee-nc.com

Clay CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe 388 Business Hwy 64 Hayesville, NC 28904; (828) 389-3704 www.claycounty-nc-chamber.com

davie CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe 135 S. Salisbury St., Mocksville, NC 27028-2337; (336) 751-3304 - www.mocksville.org

Franklin area ChamBer oF CommerCe 98 Hyatt Rd. Franklin, NC 28734; (888) 439-park • www.franklin-chamber.com

gaston CoUnty visitor Center 620 Main Street • Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4044. www.visitgaston.org

greensBoro visitor Center 2411 West Gate City Blvd Greensboro, NC 27403; (800) 344-2282 www.VisitGreensboroNC.com

hayWood ChamBer oF CommerCe 28 Walnut St. • Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 456-3021

hendersonville visitor Center

201 S. Main St • Hendersonville, NC 28792

(800) 828-4244

www.historichendersonville.org

hiCkory metro CvB

1680 13th Ave Dr. SE Hickory, NC 28602

www.hickorymetro.com

highlands ChamBer oF CommerCe

108 Main St., P. O. Box 404 Highlands, NC 28741 (828) 526-2112 www.highlandschamber.org

JaCkson CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe

773 W. Main Street • Sylva, NC 28779; (800) 962-1911 • www.mountainlovers.com

Jonesville WelCome Center

1503 NC Hwy 67W Jonesville, NC 28642 • (336) 526-1111

lake lUre WelCome Center

2926 Memorial Hwy. Lake Lure, NC 28746 828-287-6113 townoflakelure.com

madison CoUnty visitor Center

56 S. Main Street • Mars Hill, NC 28754; (828) 680-9031 www.visitmadisoncounty.com

maggie valley ChamBer oF CommerCe 2791 Soco Road, POB 279 Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (800) MAGGIE-1 • www.maggievalley.org

mCdoWell CoUnty visitor Center

1170 W. Tate St. • Marion, NC 28752; (828) 652-4240 • www.McDowellNC.org

mitChell Co. ChamBer oF CommerCe

79 Parkway Rd • Spruce Pine, NC 28777; (800) 227-3912 www.mitchell-county.com

moUnt airy visitor Center

200 N. Main St. • Mt. Airy, NC 27030; (800) 948-0949 • www.visitmayberry.com

moUnt mitChell state park 2388 State Hwy. 128 • Burnsville, NC 28714 (828) 675-4611

nW nC visitor Center

2121 East US Hwy 421 • North WIlkesboro, NC 28659 • (336) 667-1259

nC high CoUntry host visitor Center

6370 US HWY 321 South, Blowing Rock, NC 28605; (800) 438-7500 www.mountainsofnc.com

old Fort visitor Center 91 S. Catawba Ave • Old Fort, NC 28762 (888) 233-6111 • www.visitmcdowell.com

piedmont triad visitor Center 700 NC Hwy 700 Pelham, NC 27311; (800) 388-9830

polk CoUnty visitor Center 20 E. Mills Street Columbus, NC 28722; (800) 440-7848

smoky moUntain host oF nC, inC 4437 Georgia Road, Franklin, NC 28734 (800) 432-4678 • www.visitsmokies.org

sprUCe pine visitor Center 165 Locust St. Spruce Pine, NC 28777 (828) 765-7008

statesville Convention & visitors BUreaU 118 W Broad St, Statesville, NC 28687; (704) 878-3480 or (877) 531-1819

www.visitstatesville.org

Waynesville/hayWood

CoUnty visitor Center

1110 Soco Rd Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (800) 334-9036 www.visitncsmokies.com

Wilkes CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe 717 Main St., PO Box 727 BRD N. Wilkesboro, NC 28659; (336) 838-8662 • www.wilkesnc.org

Winston-salem visitor Center 200 Brookstown Ave, Winston-Salem, NC 27101 336-728-4205 • VisitWinstonSalem.com

yadkin valley visitor Center 116 East Market St. • Elkin, NC 28621; (336) 526-1111 • www.yadkinvalley.org

yanCey CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe 106 W. Main St. • Burnsville, NC 28714; (800) 948-1632 • www.yanceychamber.com

TENNESSEE

ClairBorne Co. ChamBer oF CommerCe 1732 Main St., Suite 1 Tazewell, TN 37879; (423) 626-4149 www.clairbornecounty.com

elizaBethton visitor Center 500 Veterans Memorial Parkway Elizabethton, TN 37644; (423) 547-3850 www.tourelizabethton.com

greene Co partnership/CoB 115 Academy St. Greeneville, TN 37743; (423) 638-4111 www.GreeneCountyPartnership.com

historiC JonesBoroUgh

117 Boone St. Jonesborough, TN 37659; (423) 423-753-1010 • Toll Free: 866-401-4223 www.historicjonesborough.com

Johnson City visitor Center 603 E. Main St. Johnson City, TN 37605; (423) 926-2141, www.johnsoncitytn.com

Johnson CoUnty WelCome Center 716 S. Shady St. (Hwy. 421S) Mountain City, TN 37683; (423) 727-5800 jcwc@preferred.com

kingsport visitor Center 151 E. Main St., POB 1403 BRD Kingsport, TN 37662; (423) 392-8820 www.kingsportchamber.org

loUdon CoUnty visitor BUreaU 1075 US Hwy 321 • Lenoir City, TN 37771 (865) 568-3662 • www.visitloudoncounty.com

pigeon Forge visitor Center 1950 N. Parkway, POB 1390 BRD Pigeon Forge, TN 37868; (800) 251-9100 mypigeonforge.com

smoky mtn visitor Center 3540 Line Drive • Kodak, TN 37764 (865) 932-3696

The Blue Ridge Digest can be found at these regional visitor’s centers!

toWnsend visitor Center

7609 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882. 800-525-6834. www.smokymountains.org

UniCoi visitor Center

106 Unicoi Village Place PO Box 39 Erwin, TN 37692

www.unicoitn.net 423-735-0426

VIRGINIA

1908 CoUrthoUse visitor Center 107 E Main Street Independence VA 24348 (276) 773-2471

alBemarle toUrism & adventUre Center

5791 Three Notched Rd • Crozet, VA 22932 (434) 906-2713

appomattox visitor Center

214 Main Street. PO Box 246 Appomattox, VA 24522; (434) 352-8999 historicappomattox.com

aBingdon visitor Center

335 Cummings St. • Abingdon, VA 24210 (800) 435-3440 • www.abingdon.com

aFton visitor Center

130 Afton Circle • Afton, VA 22920 (540) 943-5187 • www.visitwaynesboro.net

BedFord visitor Center 816 Burks Hill Rd • Bedford, VA 24523; (877)-HiPeaks • VisitBedford.com

BlUe ridge visitor Center

2577 JEB Stuart Highway Meadows of Dan, VA 24120 • 276-694-6012

BUena vista visitor Center

595 E. 19th St. • Buena Vista, VA 24417 (540) 261-2880 • buena-vista.va.us.com

Carroll CoUnty visitor Center

231 Farmers Market Rd, Hillsville, VA 24343 (888) 785-2782 • (276) 730-3100

www.visittheBlueRidge.com

Charlottesville visitor Center

610 East Main St Charlottesville, VA 22902

(434) 293-6789 • (434) 970-3641

www.visitcharlottesville.org

CUlpeper visitor Center

111 S. Commerce St. • Culpeper, VA 22701

Phone: (540) 727-0611 Toll Free: 844-490-2577. www.visitculpeperva.com

danville visitor Center 645 River Park Dr • Danville, VA 24540; (434) 793-4636 • www.visitdanville.com

disCovery Center at mill moUntain roanoke’s mill moUntain

215 Church Ave., Room 303 Roanoke, VA 24016 • (540) 853-1236

explore park visitor Center

Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 115 Roanoke, VA 24014 • (540) 427-1800

Floyd visitors Center

109 E. Main St. Floyd, VA 24091

www.VisitFloydVA.com 540-745-4407

Front royal visitor Center

414 E. Main St. • Front Royal, VA 22630; (800) 338-3576 • www.discoverfrontroyal.com

City oF galax toUrism department

110 East Grayson St. • Galax, VA 24333 276-238-8130 www.visitgalax.com

greene CoUnty eConomiC development & toUrism

8315 Seminole Trail, Suite 2 Ruckersville, VA 22968

hardesty-higgins hoUse visitor Center

212 S. Main St Harrisonburg, Virginia, 22801 VisitHarrisonburgVA.com.

(540) 432-8935

lexington visitor Center

106 E. Washington St. Lexington, VA 24450; (540) 463-3777

www.lexingtonvirginia.com

loUdoUn CoUnty toUrism

112 South Street • Leesburg, VA 20175 (800) 752-6118 • www.visitloudon.org

lUray/page CoUnty ChamBer

18 Campbell Street. Luray, VA 22835; (540) 743-3915 - www.luraypage.com

lynChBUrg regional inFormation Center 216 12th St. at Church St. Lynchburg, VA 24505; (800) 732-5821 www.discoverlynchburg.org

madison CoUnty visitor Center

110A N. Main St., Madison, VA 22727 (540) 948-4455 • www.madison-va.com

martinsville-henry CoUnty visitor Center

191 Fayette St., Martinsville, VA 24112 (888) 722-3498 www.visitmartinsville.com

nelson CoUnty visitor Center 8519 Thomas Nelson Hwy., Lovingston, VA 22949; (800) 282-8223 www.Nelsoncounty.com

orange Co visitor’s Center 122 East Main St. • Orange, VA 22960 (877) 222-8072 • www.visitorangevirginia.com

patriCk CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe

20475 JEB Stuart Hwy • PO Box 577 Stuart, VA 24171; (276) 694-6012

www.patrickchamber.com

prinCe William visitor Center 200 Mill St. • Occoquan, VA 22125 703-491-4045 • ticctr@aol.com

pUlaski CoUnty visitor Center 4440 Cleburne Blvd • Dublin, VA 24084 540-674-4161. www.pulaskicounty.org

radFord visitor Center

600 Unruh Dr. • Radford, VA 24141 (866) 605-6442 • www.visitradford.com

roanoke visitor inFormation Center

101 Shenandoah Ave., NE Roanoke VA 24016 • (800) 635-5535

www.visitvablueridge.com

roCkFish gap visitor Center

130 Afton Circle Afton, VA 22920; (540) 943-5187

www.augustabusiness.org

salem visitor Center

1001 Boulevard @ Civic Center Salem, VA 24153; (888) 827-2536

www.visitsalem.com

shenandoah CoUnty toUrism

600 N. Main St, Ste 101 Woodstock, VA 22664 888-367-3965 visitshenandoahcounty.com

gateWay to shenandoah visitor Center at hUpp’s hill Civil War park and mUseUm 33229 Old Valley Pike, Strasburg, VA 22657 540-465-9197 strasburgva.com

smith moUntain lake visitor Center

16430 Booker T. Washington Hwy. #2 Moneta. VA 24121 • 540-721-1203

www.visitsmithmountainlake.com

smyth CoUnty visitor Center

408 Whitetop Rd., Chilhowie, VA 24319 (276) 646-3306

VisitVirginiaMountains.com

staUnton travel inFormation Center 1290 Richmond Rd. (I-81 Exit 222) Staunton, VA 24401 • (540) 332-3972 www.VisitStaunton.com

staUnton visitor’s Center

35 South New Street, Staunton,VA 24401 540-332-3971 • www.VisitStaunton.com

virginia teCh visitor Center

925 Prices Fork Rd. • Blacksburg, VA 24061;(540) 231-3548

welcome@vt.edu

Western highlands visitor Center 241 W. Main St. • Covington, VA 24426; (540) 962-2178 • www.alleghanyhighlands.com

WinChester-FrederiCk CoUnty CvB 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd. Winchester, VA 22601 • (877) 871-1326 www.visitwinchesterva.com

Wytheville CvB 975 Tazewell Street

Wytheville, VA 24382; (276) 223-3355 Toll free (877) 347-8307 www.visitWytheville.com

WEST VIRGINIA

West virginia WelCome Center 37 Washington Court at US 340 Harpers Ferry, WV 25435; (866) -HELLO-WV • www.hello-wv.com

KENTUCKY

CUmBerland gap nhp visitor Center US 25E South • Middlesboro, KY 40965 (606) 248-2817

Cherokee Fall Festival

September 7 & 8, 2019

The Sequoyah

Birthplace Museum, Tennessee’s only tribally owned museum, will host its 28th annual Cherokee Fall Festival from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. each day. Visitors will have the opportunity to step back in time to experience food, Cherokee arts and crafts demonstrations, music and dance. A blacksmith will be doing on-site demonstrations in the shop both days. Other demonstrations and displays will include Cherokee life in 1700’s and a Civil War encampment.

Tickets Adults are $10.00, children 13-18 years old are $5.00 and children 12 and under are free. Family rate for $25.00 also available. For more information about the Great Island Festival, contact the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum at (423) 884-6246

Mountain Lodging Food Fun

NORTH CAROLINA ASHEVILLE, NC

Asheville East KOA-Exit 59 off I-40 big rigs & tenters welcome. Wooded sites, with pool, lake & river fishing. 800-562-5907 or (828) 6863121. 2708 Hwy 70E, Swannanoa, NC 28778. www.ashevilleeastkoa.com

Asheville West KOA-Exit 37 off I-40 Something for everyone, RV’s, tenters, cabins. In foothills, wooded sites, hiking trails, pool. (800) 5629015. 309 Wiggins Rd., Candler, NC 28715. www.ashevillekoa.com

Bear Creek RV Park - Exit Rt. 191 from Parkway; I-40 Exit 47; or I-26 Exit 2. 3 miles north of Parkway off Rt. 191. 5 mins. Biltmore House. 90 full hookups, paved sites, pool, laundry. Open year round. (800) 833-0798 www.ashevillebearcreek.com.

Grovewood Village

Adjacent to The Omni Grove Park Inn is one of Asheville’s hidden gems. Known today as Grovewood Village, this historic site is home to Grovewood Gallery, working artist studios, the Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum, an antique car museum, and Golden Fleece restaurant. Free parking on-site. www. grovewood.com. (828) 253-7651.

Mast Store – Located at 15 Biltmore Ave., Downtown Asheville. Restored to its 1940s heyday, this store features housewares, jams & jellies, camping gear, shoes & boots, clothing, and over 500 old-fashioned candy favorites. www.MastStore.com 828-232-1883.

Rug & Home - Over 20,000 oriental rugs & home accessories. Finest rugs from India, China, Pakistan, Persia, Turkey, Egypt, Karastan, Milliken. Tapestries, needlepoints, oil paintings, antique furniture, brass, crystal, & Tiffany lamps, mirrors. Local & national artists. Sculptures and fine porcelain. Located at I-26, exit 33 behind Ethan Allen. Open 7 days. (828) 667-4585.

BANNER ELK, NC

Smoke Tree Lodge - 12 miles south of Boone on Hwy 105. Nestled at the foot of Grandfather Mtn. Condo-apts, heated indoor pool, ESPN, Jacuzzi, saunas. (800) 422-1880. www.smoketreelodge.com

BLOWING ROCK, NC

Alpine Village Inn - 297 Sunset Dr. Quaint cozy rooms & suites in the heart of town. AC, CCTV, & phones, Wi-Fi complimentary. Some fireplaces & Jacuzzi. Pet friendly rooms. www.alpine-village-inn.com (828) 295-7206.

Blowing Rock Art & History Museum - Free admission, open year round. Must-see destination for visual art & Appalachian heritage. www.BlowingRockMuseum.org. 159 Ginny Stevens Ln (828) 295-9099.

Hemlock Inn & Suites - 134 Morris St. Downtown Blowing Rock. 1/2 mile to Parkway. Open year round. Walk to shops and restaurants. (828) 295-7987. www.hemlockinn.net.

Village Inns of Blowing RockNo Smoking, Wi-Fi/Breakfast. Suites/ Cottages/Rooms. Some Pet Friendly Rooms. (828) 295-3001

BOONE, NC

Foscoe Rentals - Cabins, Condos and Vacation homes centrally located to Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock. (800) 723-7341. www.foscoerentals.com

Hidden Valley Motel- Birds, blooms and butterflies in the Foscoe Valley. Hwy 105 south between Boone and Banner Elk. Call 828/963-4372. www.hiddenvalleymotel.com or email: jim@hiddenvalleymotel.com.

KOA Kampground - From Boone, 194N 3 miles. Left on Ray Brown Rd. 1 mile. Beautiful view. Rec room, mini golf, laundry. 123 Harmony Mtn. Lane, Boone, NC 28607. 828-264-7250.

Mast Store – Located 630 W King St, Downtown Boone. Built in 1913/1917, you’ll find most everything you need for life: clothing, footwear, trail & travel gear, housewares, gifts, & old-fashioned candy. www.MastStore. com. 828-262-0000

NC High Country Host Visitor Center- 6370 US HWY 321 South Blowing Rock, NC 28605; (800) 4387500 www.mountainsofnc.com

BURNSVILLE, NC

Alpine Village Resort - 1 & 2 bedroom condos. Great views. Tennis, heated pool/summer, cable TV, special golf fees. 3 miles west of Parkway, exit Buck Creek Gap Hwy. 80. No pets. 828/675-4103.

HENDERSONVILLE, NC

Mast Store – Located 527 N Main St, Downtown Hendersonville. Built in 1905, this store embodies the essence of the era and is packed with clothing, shoes & boots, camping gear, country gourmet foods, & candy. www.MastStore.com. 828-696-1883

Discover Hendersonville! Check out our Stay & Play Packages & Room Availability! Hendersonville Visitors Center, 201 S Main Street, Hendersonville, NC. 1-800-828-4244. Open 7 days a week. www.visithendersonvillenc.org

LINVILLE, NC

Grandfather MountainGrandfather’s lofty heights offer guests opportunities for rejuvenation, excitement and family memories in a natural haven that will endure forever. Marvel at 360-degree views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge, stand eyeto-eye with native wildlife in natural habitats and interact with our friendly, knowledgeable staff. One mile from Blue Ridge Parkway; take th Linville exit at Milepost 305 to U.S. 221 South. Open daily, weather permitting, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. $22 adult, $20 senior 60+, $9 child 4-12, under 4 free www.grandfather.com (828) 733-4337 or (800) 468-7325.

LINVILLE FALLS, NC

Linville Caverns - 19929 US 221 N. Marion. 4 miles South of Parkway, MP 317. NC’s ONLY show cavern. 800-419-0540. www.linvillecaverns.com

Linville Falls Lodge & Cottages - BRP Milepost 317.4, US 221S 1 mile to Rt. 183, left. Restaurant (ABC permit), Walk to falls & gorge. www.linvillefallslodge.com (800) 634-4421.

LITTLE SWITZERLAND, NC

Emerald Village - Real mines, mine tours, & gem mining. Other free displays: railroad, music museum, wildlife. MP334. 828-765-6463. www.emeraldvillage.com

Switzerland Cafe & General Store - MP 334 1/4 mile of the Parkway. Lunch and weekend dinners. Souvenirs and picnic items. Call 828-765-5289. www.switzerlandcafe.com

Switzerland Inn And Chalet Restaurant - A little bit of Switzerland in NC. Fantastic mountain views, rooms, suites, cottages, dining, shopping, tennis. Located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Little Switzerland exit near Parkway Milepost 334. Little Switzerland, NC 28749. (828) 765-2153 or (800) 6544026. www.switzerlandinn.com

MAGGIE VALLEY, NC

Boyd Mountain Log CabinsSecluded 130 acres near Maggie Valley, 7 Authentic cabins, fireplaces, AC, cable, WIFI. Choose n cut Christmas tree farm, trout fishing, hiking. (828) 926-1575. www.boydmountain.com

Maggie Valley Area Chamber of Commerce - US 19, Eastern entrance to the Great Smokies. Escape. Explore. Exhale. Maggie Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 279, Maggie Valley, 28751.

Be sure to tell them you saw it in THE DIGEST!

Mountain Lodging Food Fun

Jonathan Creek Inn & Maggie Valley Villas - MP 455.7 AAA 3 Diamond Rated. Creekside and Hot Tub Rooms, Creekside & Mountain View Villas, Indoor Heated Pool, Children’s Play Area. 1-800-577-7812. www.jonathancreekinn.com

McDOWELL CO., NC

McDowell Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center - Shopping & food near center. Free coffee & area info. Clean restrooms. From Parkway MP 317, 24 mi. S on US 221. From MP331: 15 mi S on NC226. (828) 652-4240.

SPARTA & GLADE VALLEY, NC

Alleghany Inn - 341 N. Main St., Sparta, NC 28675. 64 Rooms - Free Wireless Internet - Cable TV 60+ Chan, Guest Laundry - Restaurant on site. 888) 372-2501 Reserve online: www.AlleghanyInn.com . see ad p 5

SPRUCE PINE, NC

Gem Mountain - 13780 Hwy 226. 1 mile from Parkway. Gem mine. Rain or shine. Mine trips available. People’s choice for Gem mining. www.gemmountain.com

Peak Mountain Cottages & Retreat Center--On 300 acres, 7 miles N of Pkwy. Room to play or relax. Hiking trails, clear mtn streams. 460 Rabbit Hop Rd near Penland. Individuals,families or groups up to 25. 828-765-9559. www.peakmountaincottages.com

VALLE CRUCIS, NC

Mast General Store & Annex – Est. 1883 & listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this authentic general store in rural Valle Crucis features clothing, camping gear, shoes & boots, housewares, unique gifts, and over 500 old-fashioned candies. Visit our other historic locations in NC, SC, & TN. www.MastStore.com.

WAYNESVILLE, NC

Mast Store – Located 63 N Main St, Downtown Waynesville. Built in 1930s and filled with everything you’d expect in a general store – clothing, shoes, cast iron, candy, and camping gear. 828-452-2101 www.MastStore.com

TENNESSEE GATLINBURG, TN

Ski Mountain Chalet & Condo Rentals - 1-4 bedrooms , hot tubs, jacuzzis, pool tables, kitchens, fireplaces, privacy. (800) 824-4077. www.skimtnchalets.com

VIRGINIA BEDFORD, VA

Peaks of Otter Winery & Orchards - 2122 Sheep Creek Rd, 24523. MP 86. Fruit wine, fruit, jams, jellies, free tastings. Vacation rentl house. 540-586-3707. www.iwineu. com or www.elmosrest.com

Gross’ Orchard & Apple Valley Homeplace - Vacation Home Rental. Open year round. $75 per couple per night. Mountain grown fruit & produce. Bedford, VA. Rt. 43 in Apple Valley. Open Year round. U-pick or U-select. Apple Festival 3rd Sat. in Oct. (540) 586-2436.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

Montfair Resort Farm - Pet friendly cabins by lake. 30 min from Parkway. Wi-fi, linens & cookware provided. Canoe, hike, fish. (434) 8235202. www.montfairresortfarm.com.

FANCY GAP, VA

Skyland Lakes Golf ClubRight on Parkway at milepost 202.2. New 18 hole public course. Beautiful scenery. Motel & golf packages available. (276) 728-4923.

FLOYD, VA

Chantilly Farm Campground

2697 Franklin Pike SE. RV sites: electric, water, sewer, tent camping w/ amenities. WiFi, ice, ATM. chantillyfarm.com. 540-808 -4984

Floyd Visitors Center

109 E. Main St., Floyd, VA 24091 Mountain town with unique music, arts, outdoor fun! 540-745-4407

www.VisitFloydVA.com

GALAX, VA

Cool Breeze Campground

2330 Edmonds Rd.Galax,VA

MP215 off BRP, Full Hookups Bathhouse,Laundry,Big Rig Friendly,Free WIFI,Rally Center,276-236-0300

www.coolbreezecampground.com

Be sure to tell them you saw it in THE DIGEST!

MEADOWS OF DAN, VA

Primland Resort - 2000 Busted Rock Road. Resort Lodge, Fairway Cottages, Mountain Homes. Spectacular views. Golf. Spa. Dining, Outdoor activities. 276.222.3800

www.primland.com

NATURAL BRIDGE, VA

Natural Bridge Zoo –5784 S. Lee Hwy I-81 exit 180A Natural Bridge 24578. 540-291-2420, naturalbridgezoo.com. Largest collection of birds and animals in Virginia. Elephant rides, giraffe, tigers, bears, monkeys, birds and more! Petting zoo, gift shop, picnic area. Open mid March to November.

GROTTOES, VA

Grand Caverns - 5 Grand Caverns Dr, Grottoes, VA, America’s oldest continuously operated show cave. Nature’s handiwork & gifts. 888-430-CAVE.

www.grandcaverns.com

HARRISONBURG, VA

The Village Inn - 1 mile south of I-81, Exit 243, on US 11. American Automobile Association Three Diamond Award. (540) 434-7355, toll free reservations-1-800-736-7355.

www.shenandoah.org/villageinn

LURAY, VA.

Allstar Lodging - Unique Cabins and Vacation rentals. Pools, Hot tubs, frplc, kitch, riverfront/mountains, hiking, canoeing, fishing in Shenandoah Valley. 866-780-7827.

www.allstarlodging.com

RADFORD, VA

Radford Visitor’s Center-Rt 8 to I-81 Exit 109 “Find It in Radford”-surrounded on 3 sides by the New River & overflowing with history 540-267-3153 www.visitradford.com.

ROANOKE, VA

Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Shop at the markets and boutiques in Downtown Roanoke and Salem. Hike on a trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Discover wildlife while kayaking on the Upper James River Water Trail. Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy fresh, amazingly prepared ingredients. Watch the sunset aboard a cruise at Smith Mountain Lake. All these things to do and more can be part of your Blue Ridge Day.No matter what you decide to do, every day in the Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains is filled with friendship and old-fashioned hospitality. Discover what makes visiting Virginia’s Blue Ridge unique! (800) 635-5535.

visitvablueridge.com

Be FALL 2019 www.blueridgedigest.com 27

WAYNESBORO, VA

CENTERFEST Bedford’s Largest Annual Street Festival!

On Saturday, September 21, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., the Festival will celebrate its 38th year and looks forward to welcoming thousands of festivalgoers to shop the local businesses and street vendors, sample local food and beverages, and listen to live music by local bands playing everything from rock to country!

Bring the family because Centerfest offers something for

all ages and interests. There will even be amusement rides and a petting zoo for the children! New this year, the artisan district will host the “Wild Goose Imaginarium”, to include musicians, storytellers, poets, Farmer’s Market vendors and more!

Historic downtown Bedford is a short 15-minute drive down the mountain from the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the Blue Ridge Parkway. More information about the event is

on Facebook at Bedford Centerfest. Every visit to Bedford should include a stop at the Bedford Area Welcome Center, 816 Burks Hill Road. The Center is open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. offering free Wi-Fi, firefighter exhibit, gift shop, RV hook-ups, electric car charging stations, LOVE sign, and more.

Contact the Welcome Center at (540) 587-5681 or visit DestinationBedfordVA.com.

Every September, historic downtown Bedford is home to Centerfest, one of the largest street festivals in Virginia!

Top 5 Reasons to Mountain Bike in Virginia’s Blue Ridge

choose the best option for you and your group of trailsetters.

Biking & Beer Options

Blue Ridge Potters Guild

20th Annual Show and Sale

As America’s East Coast Mountain Biking Capital, Virginia’s Blue Ridge is a bucket list destination for mountain bikers. Be a #Trailsetter and check out these top five reasons Virginia’s Blue Ridge is your next spot to go mountain biking.

Virginia’s Blue Ridge is an IMBA Silver-Level Ride Center by the International Mountain Bicycling Association. It’s the only destination in the eastern half of the country to earn Silver-Level Ride Center status!

An Awesome Urban Trail System

Roanoke is one of the only cities in the U.S. featuring a mountain within the city limits – and it’s a fantastic spot for mountain biking! Located less than three miles from Downtown Roanoke, Mill Mountain Park offers nearly 10 miles of trails across 650 acres of mountaintop space, and you can check out the view of the city from the Roanoke Star.

Epic Trails

Brag a little when you

conquer some of the most epic trails in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. We challenge you to dig in and roll over the technical trails of North Mountain (Dragon’s Back), Fort Lewis Mountain, and Carvins Cove Natural Reserve – highlighted by Singletracks for having some of the best mountain bike trails in the Southeast.

Guided Adventure & Group Rides

When you’re unfamiliar with a trail, know that a guide is nearby and willing to show you the ropes and connect you with like-minded adventurers. Check out Roanoke Mountain Adventures, the Blue Ridge Off-Road Cyclists, Downshift Hand Crafted Bikes & Brews, UnderDog Bikes, and East Coasters Bike Shops to

Top off a ride with a pint after a day of adventuring on two wheels. Virginia’s Blue Ridge has excellent trail systems paired with breweries on Virginia’s Blue Ridge Cheers Trail for the enthusiasts who love to do both. Traveling on the Blue Ridge Parkway? Hit the trails at Explore Park at Milepost 115 and then check out what’s on tap at Twin Creeks Brewing Company. Cheers!

Plan your next ride at VisitVBR.com/MTB

Oct 25-27, 2019

Friday 6:30-9 pm

Saturday 10-6

Sunday noon-4

Over 70 potters and clay artists

Patrick Henry High School 2102 Grandin Road

Roanoke, VA

Largest all-pottery show in Virginia

www.blueridgepotters.com

October

11 & 12, 2019

27th Annual Cranberry Festival Shady Valley, TN

You are most cordially invited to the Shady Valley Annual Cranberry Festival, on the 2nd weekend in October at Shady Valley Elementary School. Saturday is an all day event starting with a parade featuring the Pride of Johnson County Band, floats, clowns, horses, plus much more. The day long festivities at the school grounds include live country, gospel and bluegrass music; and some of the best food and local crafts! Autumn leaves and mountains make a beautiful setting for this festival. So mark your calendars to be there.

ITINERARY: Friday: Bean Dinner 5 pm, Auction 7 pm. Saturday: 7 am Pancake Breakfast at Fire Station followed by parade at 10 am . Crafts, exhibits, quilt show, food, music, demonstrations and kids entertainment.

Free admission & parking. 423.727.5800 or 423.739.2422. dsmith@jocoed.net.

Highlands Food & Wine Nov 7 - 10

The Highlands Food & Wine Festival presents renowned chefs, musicians and wine sommeliers as headliners of the annual, weekend-long event in November. In the heart of Highlands, N.C., festival-goers can experience the quaint mountain village through events across multiple venues. Each day of the festival offers a unique celebration of the food, wine, music and culture of the Southeast. Among the dynamic roster of regional chefs to showcase their culinary skills at the festival is an expert panel of wine sommeliers – the world’s most prominent experts on wine knowledge – hosting various wine dinners throughout the festival and sharing with festival-goers their insights on wine tasting, wine making and the life of a sommelier.

The four-day event kicks off with a Grand Tasting, during which attendees can savor cuisine from the area’s most celebrated restaurants while enjoying live music from Seattle soul band The Dip. The following day offers an opportunity to relish selections from a wide array of food trucks, craft brews, and fine wines and spirits while kicking up your boots to the tunes of The Wood Brothers at the Truckin’ food truck rally. Saturday’s Main Event is the town’s largest block party on Main Street and features culinary delights from award-winning chefs and an iconic performance by Anderson East. Finally, the festival is rounded off by the Sunday Shindig, a more intimate event with brunch favorites and a performance by The Infamous Stringdusters.

An intimate affair, the Highlands Food & Wine Festival’s distinguished artists, chefs and winemakers exhibit top-tier talent, making the festival a celebration of the finest culinary and musical selections of the South.

Enjoying FALL in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Blowing Rock

You won’t find a better High Country hub for enjoying fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains! With tree-lined streets and gardens overflowing, Blowing Rock is simply beautiful in autumn. The town is located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway and home to Bass Lake Trail, which might be the best autumn stroll in the state. Take a walk under maple canopies, watch the wildlife, and see Flat Top Manor peeking through the reds and yellows on the ridge, reflected onto the glassy

water below. The trail is part of Cone Memorial Park, a former estate built by Moses Cone, dubbed the “Denim King.” This fall, learn more about the fascinating history of the family and view works from the renowned modern art collection of the Cone Sisters at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum. Modern Visions, Modern Art: The Cone Sisters in North Carolina will include work by Henri Matisse, Sarah Stein, Jacques Villon, Marie Laurencin,

Rembrandt van Rijn, and more through November 30, 2019.

The village of Blowing Rock has a wide selection of quaint inns, hotels, and rentals that you’ll love, many within walking distance of fantastic shopping and dining. And the town is convenient to local fall festivals like Valle Country Fair, Oktoberfest at Sugar, and the Woolly Worm Festival. Mark your calendar for their fall events, too! The last Art in the Park of the

2019 season is Saturday, October 5, featuring over 90 regional artists and their huge variety of work. A free Concert in the Park follows on Sunday, October 6. The Blowing Rock Halloween Festival is October 26- enjoy downtown trick-or-treating, the moonlight scavenger hunt, and participate in the Monster March on Main Street! See more about this Parkway town, including weekly fall color updates during the season, on BlowingRock.com

Smoky Mountain

Elk

Fest

September 14, 2019 10AM – 9PM at the Festival Grounds in Maggie Valley, NC.

Celebrate elk at Haywood County’s inaugural family friendly outdoor festival featuring cultural performances and live music all day including music by Andy Griggs, Jordan Brooker, and Kaitlyn Baker. Come on out and have fun with an elk bugling contest, trout race, kids’

activities, timber sports, a variety of educational elk demonstrations as well as elk habitat tours and hikes. Only $5.00 a person and kids 12 and under are Free!

Visit SmokyMtnElkFest.com for more information.

photo by Ed Green.

Travel to Way Back When with Mast General Store

Get the flux capacitor fueled up because you’re headed back in time at Mast General Store. Walk along the weathered floors that creak with memories, pull down a few put-up jars of a summer garden’s finest, gather ‘round the old pot-bellied stove for a rousing game of checkers, maybe enjoy an RC Cola and a Moon Pie ... because when

you’re at Mast Store, time is different. The best of the past and present greets you as you roam the aisles. You’ll feel that difference, in the air, seeped into the fixtures, and it will get into you too—that spirit of Mast Store that delivers old-fashioned customer service and that je ne sais quoi that will have you traveling back in time to visit again and again to find

a little bit of … well, everything. The store’s product mix alone is magic. They’ve kept the best practices and products of a by-gone era and saved them for their guests to enjoy. Mast Store has everything you might need for life in the past century and in this one— modernized, upscaled, and convenient. Alongside old-fashioned toys and candies, they carry the latest in technical outdoor gear and wear, fashion-forward lines of clothing, and the highest quality brands of shoes you’ll find. You can go back in time at any Mast Store location. Head to the Original Store in Valle Crucis, or visit many of the other fine locations for an experience to remember. Because your road trip, and maybe a little time traveling, begins at Mast General Store! Learn more at www.MastStore.com

Travelers today see the daily patterns of life and the settled landscape here on the high plateau at places like Mabry Mill. Cultural history demonstrations are offered in summer and early fall at the nearby blacksmith shop and Matthews cabin. Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 176 www.mabrymillrestaurant. com or (276) 952-2947.

Five Fun Fall Events in Hendersonville

This fall, plan your visit to Hendersonville, North Carolina, around one of its signature happenings. Each event promises a good dose of food and fun.

One of Hendersonville’s hallmarks is the North Carolina Apple Festival each Labor Day weekend. The four-day festival, Aug. 30-Sept. 2, centers on Henderson County’s longstanding reputation as a leading apple grower. The county leads the state in apple production and ranks seventh nationally. The festival includes a street fair, parade, live entertainment, children’s games and plenty of fresh fruit.

Western North Carolina’s rich agricultural history is on display at the N.C. Mountain State Fair, Sept. 6-15. Show animals, including dairy and beef cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and chickens, strut their stuff for the livestock competitions.

The carnival midway features more than 40 rides and numerous games, as well as favorite fair treats, such as cotton candy and funnel cakes.

On Sunday, Sept. 22, the fourth annual Fiesta Hendersonville takes place downtown. More than 20 Latin American countries are represented. Through music, dance, food and art, attendees learn the nuances of

Latin American culture and how it differs from one country to another. For 60 years, Art on Main has transformed downtown Hendersonville into a two-day outdoor gallery. On Sept. 28-29, fine artists and craftsmen from WNC and throughout the Southeast set up along the sidewalk to sell their wares and showcase their skills.

Farm City Day on Oct. 5 recognizes the mutual dependency of farm and city residents. The Jackson Park event includes both urban and rural displays, demonstrations, farm equipment, animals, live music, dancing and traditional lawn games. For more information, call (800) 828-4244 or go to www.VisitHenderosnvilleNC.org.

42nd Annual Woolly Worm Festival-

The Official Woolly Worm Festival of North Carolina

Get your Woolly Worms ready for the 42nd Annual Woolly Worm Festival! This unique family festival now awarded the Official Woolly Worm Festival of the State of North Carolina, will include delicious food, over 150 craft vendors, great music all weekend, clog and dance teams, trampoline & inflatable rides, fall foliage and beautiful mountain views. Shop for woolly worm memorabilia, souvenir shirts to items crafted for family heirlooms. There will be something for everyone!

Up to 1,000 worm racers vie for the top position and the honor

of having their worm predict the upcoming winter weather at the festival’s famous woolly worm races. The winning worm on Saturday takes home a prize of $1,000 and $500 on Sunday. Please no pets except Woolly Worms of course!

The Festival is sponsored by Banner Elk Kiwanis and the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and all proceeds are given back to the community to enhance our schools, children’s programs, and to promote business and tourism in Avery County.

2019 Carolina in the Fall Festival

On September 20th and 21st, in historic downtown Wilkesboro, the Kruger Brothers will host some of North Carolina’s best folk/ roots music bands during the Award Winning Fourth Annual Carolina in the Fall™ Music and Food Festival. They will be joined by a variety of bands from around the world that tip their hats to the rich musical history of Wilkes, the Heart of American Folk Music™.

In its fifth year, Carolina in the Fall™ has become an annual pilgrimage of bluegrass and folk music lovers. In addition to great music, those that attend will be treated to some of North Carolina’s best food as each year trucks from the region will bring their secret recipes to feed the masses and vie for the Carolina in the Fall™ Food Truck Championship trophy. Additionally, local vineyards and regional craft breweries

Cost/Admission: $6.00 for Adults, $4.00 –Children-6-12, Free 5 and under.

For more information go to www.woollyworm.com or www.averycounty.com.

will be onsite to provide a taste of the region’s best beverages.

As a lifestyle festival, CITF offers more than just music and food. Other events include the Bobby Martin Songwriting Competition, and The Chad Lovette Memorial Trail Run and Ride in support of the American Cancer Society . If you need a little getaway from sitting and listening, Contra and clogging dance classes and Artist Workshops are held both days of the festival. Due to the size of the venues and closeness of the seating, pets are not allowed in any of the music venues. Make plans now to be in Wilkes County, North Carolina on September 20th and 21st to enjoy the

sights and sounds of the season of Carolina in the Fall™. Visit these links to purchase tickets, make your hotel reservations, or if you like to camp (Sewerfest will be open!). Visit this link if you would like to purchase VIP tickets which includes entry to the Carolina Jam™ sessions Saturday evening only from 11 PM til 1 AM at the Yadkin Valley Event CenterYadkin Valley Event Center. Save the date and make the annual pilgrimage to Wilkes, the Heart of American Folk Music™. Carolina in the Fall Music and Food Festival™.

More information: 336-990-0747 or www.carolinainthefall.org

The Peaceful Side of the Smokies Comes Alive with Music, Food & Crafts

September 27-28, 2019

Bring your lawn chair and enjoy genuine bluegrass music, arts and crafts, food, and Fall festivities for the entire family at the Townsend Visitor’s Center at 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, in Townsend, Tennessee—about 20 miles and a half hour drive via US 321 from Pigeon Forge. Consider taking the newly opened section of the Foothills Parkway from Wears Valley to near Townsend on the way.

Parking passes may be purchased at the Townsend Visitor Center (7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Townsend), the Maryville Welcome Center (201 S. Washington St., Maryville) or at the parking gate on event days.

FREE Townsend Shuttle

Don’t forget to hop on the FREE shuttle that takes you around Townsend, “The Peaceful Side of then Smokies.

Buses will run from Little Arrow Campground to the Heritage Center to Trillium Cove to Little River Railroad Museum to Cades Cove Cellars to Apple Valley to the Townsend Visitors Center and back to the Heritage Center. No Pets permitted.

More informaation: www.smokymountains.org

Daily Schedule

Sept. 27

Crafts & Demonstrations:

10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Food: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Music: Noon-10 p.m.

Sept. 28

Crafts & Demonstrations:

9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Food: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Music: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Parking is $10 per day or $15 for two-day pass. Proceeds benefit the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department.

Discover PATRICK COUNTY Cherokee

Candy Company, Poor Farmer’s Market, Concord Corner Store, and more. Take some extra time to relax on the wraparound porch at the Olde House in Meadows of Dan.

Heritage Festival

Sat, Sept 21, 2019

Of the Blue Ridge Parkway’s 469 miles of ridge-running, scenic roadway, only 30 run through Patrick County. But those 30 miles provide access to enough history, hiking, wine and wonder to keep visitors busy for a weekend

or a lifetime. From 5-star luxury to rugged outdoors, Patrick County has something for everyone. Start out at Meadows of Dan village, just off the parkway. Stop to shop at the Meadows Mercantile, Christmas in the Meadows, Nancy’s

North Carolina Mountain Arts Adventure

Alleghany County is home to the North Carolina Mountain Arts Adventure (NCMAA), a group of professional artists all living and creating art in Alleghany County. In 2010 these local artists formed the NCMAA whose main intent is and always has been to provide opportunities for the public to get to know the artist in their home studio environ- ment and to actually see the creation process. NCMAA accomplish- es this goal by providing studio tours each July and October. This fall’s 2019 NC Arts Adventure Studio Tour dates are October 18, 19, 20 from 10am – 5pm each day. This year the tour has 14 artists participating. You can experience several different art mediums from Venetian plaster, metal, clay, wood, glass, photography, basketry, fine jewelry and more. For info about the tour visit the NCMAA website at NCMOUNTAINARTSADVENTURE.com. Information about the art, artists and a tour map can be found on the website at alleghanycountychamber.com. Call the Alleghany Chamber of Commerce for more information at 336-372-5473.

For an all-encompassing resort getaway, check out Primland. Stay at a lodge, cabin, or even a treehouse. While there, enjoy world-class golf, fishing, shooting, and fine dining—all without leaving the resort grounds. No matter your preference, Primland can open your eyes to the simple pleasure of a mountain getaway.

The Blue Ridge Mountains meet Piedmont Virginia in Patrick County, and that blend makes for an exceptional terroir, as demonstrated by the county’s rich wineries. Enjoy a tasting at Villa Appalaccia Winery and Stanburn Winery.

Fairy Stone State Park offers an unforgettable experience with camping, swimming, hiking, paddling, picnicking and two playgrounds, including one in the water. Go deeper to explore the recreation area’s local folklore and its unique abundance of fairy stones—the small, cross-shaped rocks that are said to be the crystallized tears of ancient fairies.

For a different kind of history, visit Jack’s Creek Covered Bridge, one of only four publicly accessible historic covered bridges in Virginia. The bridge was first built in 1914 to access a church, and it has survived flooding and the passage of more than a century.

Whether soaring vistas, historic sites, water adventure or sheer relaxation, Patrick County has it all. Come experience the simple life.

More information:

www.patrickcounty.org

10 am – 3 pm

Cherokee Homestead Exhibit

805 Hwy 64 Business –Hayesville, North Carolina

Enjoy traditional Cherokee dancing, cultural arts demonstrations, storytelling, frybread, singing and flute music during this free festival at the outdoor 17th century Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, one of five attractions along a 2-mile Cherokee History Trail in Hayesville. Featured Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians will include nationally recognized storyteller and artist Davy Arch, the Oconaluftee Village dancers, and award winning dancers and artisans from Cherokee, North Carolina.

Children of all ages will enjoy craft activities, practicing blowgun techniques, and a scavenger hunt with their families. Adults will enjoy plant walks through Native Botanical Gardens. The adjacent Clay County “Old Jail” Museum will be open throughout the event.

Traditional dancing performed at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00 and 2:00

Hoop Dancing demonstration at 2:30

Native Plant walks at 11:30 and 1:30

Free admission, parking and shuttle bus.

Donations welcome.

For additional information: 828-389-6531 or cccra-nc.org

Beautiful Fall Roads Lead to Wytheville

You’re going to LOVE including a visit to Wytheville, Virginia, as part of your fall getaway plans. Small town charm and breathtaking fall beauty is a grand mix for your “off the Parkway” adventure.

Scenic backroads offer an escape from the hustle-bustle of the interstates and a glimpse at unique attractions along the way. Local farms offer the beauty of harvest time as fields become blanketed with the orange of pumpkins. Festivals and events are frequent this time of year and focus on music and crafts. Fans of spooky activities will love

the area with its two seasonal haunted attractions, Helheim and Haunted Graham Mansion, as well as a weekend devoted to zombies in Downtown Wytheville.

The latest musical on the stage of Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre will take the audience back in time to the career of the legendary “man in black” with “Ring of Fire” from September 5 to October 27. Music can also be found at many locations in Downtown Wytheville including the Bolling Wilson Hotel. One

is a musical one at this mountain top location with a variety of local musicians, artisans and authors each Saturday and Sunday.

Recreational enthusiasts might want to check out Crystal Springs Recreation Area for the exhilarating hiking opportunities and breath-taking views. There’s plenty of flora and fauna for those young ones in your family to enjoy.

For more info:

of the most beautiful settings to enjoy the authentic sounds of the region in autumn is the stage at Big Walker Lookout. Every weekend

Wytheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, toll-free at 1-877-347-8307, or visit www.VisitWytheville.com.

Wytheville, Virginia… There’s Only One.

Smyth County

From Pumpkins to Pale Ales, Elkin has Fun Fall Festivals

Elkin, a trails town on the Yadkin River not far from the Blue Ridge Parkway, has two fun festivals on tap this fall.

The first is the 23rd annual Yadkin Valley Pumpkin Festival on Saturday, Sept. 28, followed by the fourth annual Big Elkin Brewfest on Saturday, Oct. 26.

The pumpkin festival takes place on Main Street and features the nationally-sanctioned Southeast Great Pumpkin Weigh Off. Farmers from several states bring their most prodigious pumpkins to compete for the top prize. Last year’s winner weighed a state-record 1,583 pounds.

“They are so big we have to use two fork lifts to put them onto a giant net and ease them down to a huge calibrated scale,” says Myra Cook, president of the Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce, which sponsors the event. “The growers come from all over. We get them from North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia and Florida. The growers are serious about these giant pumpkins.”

Main Street is alive with activity throughout the Pumpkin Festival

with crafts, food trucks, children’s events and a farmer’s market. There are also competitions for the largest watermelon and gourd.

Come October, plan to sample a cornucopia of North Carolina craft beer at the Big Elkin Brewfest. The festival moved to late October last fall to take advantage of cooler temperatures and will incorporate a new wrinkle this year – a Halloween theme complete with costume contest.

The “Boos & Brews” theme should make for an afternoon of fun the last Saturday in October alongside Big Elkin Creek at Elkin Municipal Park.

“This is our first year with the Halloween theme, so we are very excited to see all the costumes and the atmosphere it will bring to the park Halloween weekend,” Cook says.

A lineup of 12-14 breweries will be headlined by local brewers Angry Troll and Skull Camp. There will be live music on the stage and plenty of food from food trucks. The brewfest lasts from 1-6 p.m.

For more info about the Yadkin Valley Pumpkin Festival on Sept. 28 and the Big Elkin Brewfest on Oct. 26, call 336-526-1111 or visit www.YadkinValley.org.