Banner Elk My Hometown 2025-26

my 2025-26 BANNER ELK hometown

The High Country is a great place to visit... and a better place to live!

Retail • Entertainment • Restaurants • Events • Recreation• Important Numbers Real Estate • Organizations • Chambers of Commerce • Civic Groups • Education

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ELEVATION GMC CHEVROLET 2705 US Hwy 421 South Boone, NC 28607 828-263-4920 • www.elevationchevroletgmc.com

Welcome to Banner Elk

Where Mountain Resilience Meets Small-Town Heart

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f you are anything like me, I look back at the past year with happiness and exhaustion because of how resourceful and resilient our workforces, organizations and individual community members have been in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. It has truly been a rough ride, one which has changed so many lives. Yet we are a strong mountain people and we look forward to a bright future of new opportunities and growth for our community.

We are blessed in Banner Elk to have leaders, business owners, educators, and citizens who realize that we all share in the responsibility of creating economic success and happiness within our own community.

One of the first impressions

I made after moving to Banner Elk twenty years ago was of its deep community roots. Banner Elk has a heritage that instills a profound sense of belonging and community identity. A visit to the Banner House Museum provides a good starting place for everyone interested in learning about the unique history upon which our community was founded.

As I gaze outside at the deer foraging in the snow for forgotten apples, I am reminded of the beauty and serenity I enjoy daily. Each of our four seasons is distinct and brings with it a variety of activities that focus on outdoor activities and Banner Elk’s natural beauty. Winter brings snow with skiing and snowboarding, sledding, warm

fires, and hot chocolate. Spring heralds the annual migration of raptors and wildflower walks on Grandfather Mountain. With summer comes warmer weather with flyfishing in local streams, picnics, and glorious sunrises and sunsets. The “leaf peepers” arrive with the first fall colors and our days are filled with apple picking and local festivals.

The Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer driven organization operating on a small budget to promote economic opportunity in Banner Elk and the surrounding area. It also provides a welcome center and information resource for its members and community.

Its goal is to make Banner Elk a premier place to live, to work, to do business and to vacation.

Throughout the year the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce organizes a variety of events to bring together businesses, community members, and visitors. This year, the Chamber will again offer a host of events including Selfies with the Easter Bunny, the Fourth of July Parade, Thursday Night Summer Concerts in the Park, Banner Elk’s Small-Town Christmas Weekend with Night Parade, Holiday Nights of Lights, monthly Business After Hours networking gatherings, and its Annual Dinner and Edgar Award for Banner Elk Citizen of the Year.

I believe that the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce is one of the most valuable resources our community has to offer. Visit

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce President Mary Jo Brubaker.

the Welcome Center! Attend a Chamber event! Bring a guest!

Banner Elk offers Small Town America Living at its best.

Kindest Regards, MARY JO BRUBAKER, President Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce

Welcome to Banner Elk and Avery County:

Small Town, USA

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anner Elk is an exceptional example of small town USA we have to offer here in Avery County. It has the prestige of being a college town that is home to Lees-McRae College which is a vital part of this small mountain community.

It flourishes with a rich local

culture, a diverse population of visitors, full and part–time residents. People come here to visit from all walks of life to enjoy the beauty of our mountains, all the many outdoor recreational activities, to include our first-class ski destinations and some of the finest dining in

2 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

the High Country.

The Avery County Sheriff ’s Office considers it an honor and privilege to serve this community and Avery County.

As we take on the mission to provide public safety, we want to ensure that everyone who visits Avery County will have a safe

and enjoyable experience in the High Country.

As the Sheriff of Avery County, I want to extend a warm welcome to all of the many visitors who make Avery County a vacation destination every year.

MIKE HENLEY Avery County Sheriff

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Avery County Sheriff Mike Henley.

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Banner Elk: A special place like no other

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anner Elk is special. No one comes here that doesn’t want to stay. Of course you are already aware of our beautiful scenery and seasons and our location being between two ski resorts, lots of golf courses and Grandfather Mountain. Now let’s delve into what the town of Banner Elk has done to make the downtown so inviting and special.

Our Historic Banner Elk Elementary School was built in 1938-1939 by the WPA, and the school closed in 2011, when a new school was built. This school is in the heart of our downtown. With lots of community effort, this rock schoolhouse was transformed into the Cultural Arts Center. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017. It now houses the BE Artist Gallery, Banner Elk Book Exchange, Carolina Life Magazine Corporate Office, Playful Heart Studio, Common Grounds and Ensemble Stage. The Ensemble Stage is a 99-seat theatre space converted from the old school auditorium. Gary Smith and Lisa Lamont secure professional actors, and

this stage company has a huge following, The frontage of the school is a large field that faces the main road into town.

This area is used for the famous Woolly Worm Festival the third weekend of each October. 2026 will be the 49th year of the Woolly Worm Festival. There are also four Art on the Greene festivals each summer on the weekends of Memorial Day, Fourth of July, the first weekend in August and Labor Day. This space has also made available more space for badly needed downtown parking. The town added a road from Town Hall to the Historic Banner Elk School. This adds more accessibility and more parking.

Hurricane Helene came through Avery County in September 2024 destroying much of our Police Department,, and they have now moved into a portion of the Historic Banner Elk School. After the hurricane, the entire Banner Elk Historic School was transformed into a resource center for assistance and supplies for residents’ needs.

One of the biggest events of the year is the Fourth of July parade and Party in the Park. Come gather with us on Main Street for a one-of-a-kind parade that would only be found in Banner Elk. The day ends with a Duck Race and old-fashioned lawn games.

Tate-Evans Town Park is enjoyed by people of all ages and their pets. There are many miles of walking/biking paths, two children’s playgrounds, workout equipment, and a stream for the children to play in. There are also pavilions available for outdoor gatherings. The park also has an amphitheater. Every Thursday evening in summer, there is a free concert with a great band, a dance stage and wonderful food trucks. Bring your own chair and enjoy. That amphitheater is also used for outdoor movies and other events.

A Small Town Christmas comes to Banner Elk the first weekend in December. The town is lit with holiday lights and snow flakes. There are train rides and carriage rides to help you enjoy the scenery.

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Banner Elk Mayor Brenda Lyerly.

Speaking of Christmas, on Friday evening of Small Town Christmas weekend, there is a lighting of the Christmas tree at the Corner on Main.

Everyone gathers around the tree with hot chocolate and cookies and listens to Christmas Carolers until the tree lighting.

After the tree lighting everyone heads over to the Ensemble Stage for the Holiday Musical Variety Show. How much more Norman Rockwell could this be?

Can you see why Banner Elk is special?

BRENDA LYERLY Mayor of Banner Elk

Welcome from Lees-McRae College President Dr. Lee King

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his year, Lees-McRae College is celebrating 125 years as Banner Elk’s Hometown Institution, and we are proud of the legacy of education, cultural enhancement, and economic vitality that we bring to both Banner Elk and the High Country.

What began as a fireside classroom for local girls in the home of our founder Rev. Edgar Tufts 125 years ago is now a vibrant masters-level institution serving students Mountain T imes Publications

from 36 states and 23 countries.

This year, we were recognized

by U.S. News and World Report as the 12th Best College in the South, and we were ranked 2nd for the quality of undergraduate teaching that occurs here. We are thriving in today’s higher education landscape because of our focus on experiential learning. Our distinctive academic and co-curricular programs are enhanced by our local environment that allows the college to fully live out its

motto of In the Mountains, Of the Mountains, For the Mountains.

As we look forward to our next 125 years, we have a very bold vision that further enhances our distinctiveness and solidifies our rightful place as one of the most unique and best institutions of higher education in our nation. I encourage you to learn more about Lees-McRae and how we are thriving in the educational marketplace by visiting our

PHOTO SUBMITTED

LMC President Dr. Lee King.

campus, meeting our students, and seeing for yourself what we mean by Elevated

Experiential Learning!

DR. LEE KING President

DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 3

Banner Elk shines with an exceptional school and community devoted to learning

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estled in the High Country’s rolling blue ridges, Banner Elk has long been known for its postcard-worthy scenery and small-town warmth. But in recent years, this Avery County community has earned growing recognition for something even more enduring: its exceptional elementary school and the community-wide commitment that supports them.

From innovative classroom programs to deeply engaged parents and local businesses, education has become one of the defining strengths of the Banner Elk area.

Educators in Banner Elk often say their greatest asset is the close-knit environment that allows Banner Elk Elementary to stay

both ambitious and personal.

Teachers know their students well, and small class sizes encourage individualized instruction.

Administrators cite a focus on whole-child learning—balancing academic rigor with emotional well-being and creativity with a strong focus on the arts.

In Banner Elk, education is truly a shared priority. Parents volunteer in classrooms, attend frequent school events, and take active roles in school improvement efforts. Local businesses and organizations sponsor enrichment programs and offer hands-on demonstrations that connect realworld skills to classroom lessons.

This collaboration has become a defining feature of Banner Elk’s educational identity.

Schools in the Banner Elk area have earned praise for expanding opportunities in the arts as well as for their academic excellence.

Many of these initiatives are supported by grants, partnerships with local organizations, and a strong PTA network. Educators say these varied programs help students discover passions early and give them the confidence to pursue ambitious goals.

As Banner Elk continues to grow as a destination for families, retirees, and seasonal visitors, the town’s commitment to an exceptional school remains one of its biggest draws. Parents often cite education as a deciding factor in making Banner Elk home. For residents, Banner Elk Elementary is a point of pride—and for

students, it’s a foundation that will shape futures for years to come.

In addition to the 130 students at Banner Elk Elementary, the Avery County school system serves approximately 1500 additional students in 4 additional elementary schools (PreK-5), 2 middle schools (6-8), and one comprehensive high school.

The system combines academic excellence, small class sizes, and strong community values to create an environment where students thrive. The results are a high graduation rate, above-average test scores, safe schools, and a wide range of opportunities to prepare students for the future. With ongoing community investment and a dedicated team of educators, Avery County schools are working

Welcome to the charm

of Banner Elk and Avery County

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s we look to 2026, I am honored to share a renewed vision for the Avery County Chamber of Commerce—one rooted in impact, innovation, growth, and community collaboration. Banner Elk has always been a place where stunning landscapes meet genuine hospitality, but it is the people who live, work, and visit here who truly make this town exceptional.

For our full-time residents, your commitment and care shape the heartbeat of this community. For our seasonal and local neighbors, your energy and engagement sustain the momentum that makes Avery County vibrant year-round.

And to our visitors and guests,

we are delighted to welcome you into a place we are proud to call home—one that continues to grow while protecting the character that makes it special.

The Chamber’s direction in 2026 revolves around creating measurable impact and fostering meaningful partnerships. We are investing in innovative programs that support small businesses, enhance visitor experiences, strengthen workforce development, and encourage collaborative initiatives that benefit our entire region. Avery County thrives when we work together, and our path forward is grounded in that belief.

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We are fortunate to have exceptional partners who help elevate our community and inspire continued growth. Grandfather Mountain remains one of our greatest natural treasures—an internationally recognized symbol of conservation and adventure.

Beech Mountain Resort, Sugar Mountain Resort and the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster continue to evolve, offering year-round outdoor recreation that draws families and outdoor enthusiasts from far and wide. The newly branded Lodge at Banner Elk and soon to open Courtyard

by Marriott bring modern lodging and hospitality to our town, supporting both tourism and local

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Victoria Bowman, Avery Chamber of Commerce.

events. Our retail options continue to evolve with gems such as Eclectic Nest, Timber and Twine, Footsloggers and the Banner Elk Shirt Company offering a huge variety of options for residents and visitors alike. And beloved local eateries—Tin Trout, Mountain Grounds Coffee, Famous Brick Oven Pizzerias and Stonewalls—

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Avery County Board of Education Chair Pat Edwards.

to set a high standard for rural education in North Carolina.

On behalf of the Avery County Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Logan Burleson, I welcome you to Banner Elk and the wonderful Avery County community.

With warm regards, PATRICIA EDWARDS, Chair Avery County Board of Education

exemplify the warmth, flavor, and tradition that keep people returning to Avery County again and again.

As we celebrate these partners and our many small but mighty businesses, the Chamber remains committed to championing what makes Avery County extraordinary: resilient entrepreneurs, forward-thinking leadership, and a community that shows up for one another.

Thank you for supporting Banner Elk, for believing in its future and for being part of the story we continue to write together. The year ahead promises progress, creativity and opportunities that will strengthen our hometown for generations to come.

Warm regards,

VICTORIA BOWMAN Executive Director, Avery County Chamber of Commerce Mountain T imes Publications

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DIANNE DAVANT MOFFITT, ASID MARGARET HANDLEY, ASID PAMELA MCKAY, ASID PRISCILLA HYATT COUNCILL, ASID BANNER ELK, NORTH CAROLINA 828.963.7500 STUART, FLORIDA 772.781.1400 WWW.DAVANT-INTERIORS.COM FL LICENSE IB 0000766

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DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 5

Banner Elk Chamber Of Commerce

Membership Directory ARTISTS & ART GALLERIES BE Artists Gallery 185 Azalea Cir SE Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-5389 www.beartistsgallery.com Hardin Fine Jewelry 920 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-4653 www.hardinfinejewelry.com/ It’s All About the Art 163 Shawneehaw Ave S Banner Elk NC 28604 (828) 783-9233 https://itsallabouttheart.net/

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Apple Hill Farm 400 Apple Hill Rd. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-963-1662 www.applehillfarmnc.com Carolina Mountain Life Magazine P.O. Box 976 Linville, NC 28646 828-737-0771 https://cmlmagazine.online/ Doe River Gorge Ministries Hampton, Tenn.

423-725-4010 www.doerivergorge.com Dutch Creek Trails 3740 Bethel Rd. Sugar Grove NC 28679 828-297-7117 https://www.dutchcreektrails. com/

Elk River Club 1000 Clubhouse Dr. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9773 elkriverclubnc.com FORUM at Lees-McRae College Pamela Adolphi P.O. Box 649 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-8748 https://www.lmc.edu/community/ forum.htm Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation 2033 Blowing Rock Hwy Linville NC 28604 828-733-2013 www.grandfather.com/ High Mountain Expeditions 3149 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk NC 28604 828-264-7368 www.highmountainexpeditions.com Holston Presbyterian Camp and Retreat Center 6993 Hickory Nut Gap Rd. Banner Elk NC 28604 844-465-7866 www.HolstonCenter.org Newland Christmas Tree Festival 330 Cranberry Street Newland, NC 28657 www.newlandchristmastreefestival. com Sugar Mountain Resort, Inc. 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr. Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-4521 www.skisugar.com

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FINANCIAL, INSURANCE, & LEGAL SERVICES Elk Pointe Capital 397 Shawneehaw Ave. Suite C Banner Elk NC 28604 828- 898-7810 https://www.elkpointecap. com/ First Community Bank 115 Main St. E. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5100 https://www.firstcommunitybank. com/ Gargano Financial Group 225 Turkey Crossing Lane Banner Elk, NC 28604 garganofinancial.com Signature Wealth Strategies 1900 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, NC 28604 www.signaturewealthwinstonboone. com

BUILDERS, HOME IMPROVEMENT & UTILITIES Appalachian Blinds & Closet Company/Carolina Shutter Company 1852 Highway 105 Suite 3 Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-1395 www.appblinds.com Boone Heating and Air Conditioning 164 Mr. Bish Blvd.

Boone NC 28607 828-268-1125 www.booneheatingandair.com/

Dianne Davant & Associates 5111 Hwy. 105 S Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9887 www.davant-interiors.com/ Horizon Island Painting & Design 296 The Ponds Rd. Banner Elk, NC 28604 Hunter’s Tree Service Inc. 1731 Beech Mountain Road Elk Park, NC 28622 828-733-3320 www.hunterstreeserviceinc.com Linville River Electric Inc. 780 Cranberry St. Newland, NC 28657 (828) 387-6405 www.linvilleriverelectric.com Mountain Craft Builders PO Box 412 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-0013 https://www.mountaincraftbuilders. com Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. 1373 Elk Park Hwy Newland NC 28657 828-733-0159 www.mountainelectric.com/ New Lifestyles Carpet One Floor & Home 2862 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk NC 28604 828-528-4013 www.newlifestylescarpet1bannerelk. com/

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Roof Maxx of Hickory 2180 Connelly Springs Dr. Lenoir, NC 28645 (828) 212-4838 roofmaxx.com/find-a-dealer/northcarolina/hickory/ Sky House L.L.C. 2874 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-3717 https://www.skyhousecompany. com/ Varsity Promo Group 704-579-0314 varsitypromo.dcpromosite.com

CHURCHES Banner Elk Presbyterian Church 420 College Dr. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5406 bannerelkpresbyterian.org/

CLEANING & RESTORATION SERVICES Highland Pro Clean, Inc. 136 Asa St. Newland NC 28657 828-733-5089 www.highlandproclean.com

EDUCATION Mayland Community College 785 Cranberry St. Newland, NC 28657 www.mayland.edu

GARDEN CENTERS & FLORISTS Native Botanicals, Inc. 115 Snowridge Rd. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 260-2867 www.nativebotanicalsinc.com/ whys3.html

HEALTH & FITNESS

Women’s Health of the High Country 141 Shawneehaw Ave. S Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-357-7314 womenshealthofthehighcontry.com

AMOREM (Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc.) (828) 754-0101 https://www.amoremsupport.org/ Beech Mountain Club 114 Clubhouse Road Beech Mountain NC 28604 828-387-4208 https://beechmtn.club/

HOME FURNISHINGS

High Country Caregivers 895 State Farm Rd, #400-B Boone NC 28607 828-832-6366 https://www.highcountrycaregivers. com/ Williams YMCA of Avery County 436 Hospital Drive Linville NC 28646 828-737-5500 ymcaavery.org/

Banner Elk Trading Company 117 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-1970 www.bannerelkvillage.com/bannerelk-trading-co/ Dewoolfson Down 9452 NC Hwy. 105 S Banner Elk NC 28604 828-963-4144 www.dewoolfsonlinens.com

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DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 7

LODGING Anderson Mountain Realty & Rentals 184 N Water St. #13 Boone, NC 28607 828-386-6536 www.rentourcabins.com Banner Elk Mountain Cabins P.O. Box 1981 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-387-1209 www.bannerelkmtncabins.com Carolina Cabin Rentals, Inc. 197 Old US Highway 321 Blowing Rock NC 28605 828-295-6000 www.carolinacabinrentals.com/ Imm and Imm, LLC High Mountain Hideaway Banner Elk, NC 28604 www.vacasa.com/unit/114213 Little Main St. Inn & Suites 607 E. Main St. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-6109 www.thelittlemainstreetinn.com/ The Azalea Inn 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-9528 https://theazaleainnbb.com/ Samantha Springs Family Campground 17 Samantha Springs Ln. Elk Park, NC 28622 828-266-5472

NONPROFITS AMOREM (Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc.) (828) 754-0101 https://www.amoremsupport.org/ Avery Humane Society 279 New Vale Road Newland NC 28657 828-733-2333 https://www.averyhumane.org/

Banner Elk Book Exchange 185 Azalea Circle SE Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-6667 www.bannerelkbookexchange.com

Mayland Community College 785 Cranberry St Newland NC 28657 828-733-5883 www.mayland.edu/

Carolina Cabin Rentals, Inc. 197 Old US Highway 321 Blowing Rock NC 28605 828-295-6000 www.carolinacabinrentals.com/

Banner Elk Garden Club P.O. Box 248 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-4323

The Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation/Banner House Museum 7990 Hickory Nut Gap Rd. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-783-8506 www.bannerhousemuseum.org

Elk River Property Owners Association, Inc. 643 Banner Elk Hwy. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9791 www.elkriverpoa.com/

Town of Banner Elk 200 Park Ave. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5398 www.townofbannerelk.org

Elk River Realty, Inc. 539 Banner Elk Hwy. Banner Elk NC 28604, 828-898-9777 www.elkriverclub.com/

Town of Banner Elk TDA 704-466-3744 https://www.bannerelk.com/

Engel & Volkers Banner Elk 610 Banner Elk Highway Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-3808 bannerelk.evusa.com/en/

Banner Elk Presbyterian Church 420 College Dr Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5406 bannerelkpresbyterian.org/ FORUM at Lees-McRae College P.O. Box 649 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-8748 https://www.lmc.edu/community/ forum.htm Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation 2033 Blowing Rock Hwy. Linville NC 28646 828-733-2013 www.grandfather.com/ High Country Breast Cancer Foundation P.O. Box 1029 Blowing Rock, NC 28607 614-928-6544 highcountrybreastcancerfoundation. org/ High Country Caregivers 895 State Farm Rd, #400-B Boone NC 28607 828-832-6366 https://www.highcountrycaregivers. com/ Holston Presbyterian Camp and Retreat Center 6993 Hickory Nut Gap Rd Banner Elk NC 28604 844-465-7866 www.HolstonCenter.org

8 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

Williams YMCA of Avery County 436 Hospital Drive Linville NC 28646 828-737-5500 ymcaavery.org/

REAL ESTATE Anderson Mountain Realty & Rentals 184 N Water St. #13 Boone, NC 28607 828-386-6536 www.rentourcabins.com Banner Elk Realty 161 Silver Springs Drive, Suite #2 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9756 www.bannerelkrealty.com Beech Mountain Club 114 Clubhouse Road Beech Mountain NC 28604 828-387-4208 https://beechmtn.club/ Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals 2464 US Highway 421 South Boone NC 28607 800-237-7975 https://www.blueridgerentals.com/

Harry Berry Realty, Inc. 3812 Cleveland Street Hollywood FL 33021 954-816-6521 www.harryberryrealty.com/ Lear Group Real Estate 185 John Erwin Rd. Banner Elk, NC 28604 866-361-3029 www.leargroup.com The Farm at Banner Elk Dobbins Rd./Farm Loop Rd Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-4416 www.thefarmatbannerelk.com/

RESTAURANTS, BREWERIES, AND WINERIES Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery 324 Shawneehaw Ave S Highway 184 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-4040 www.bannerelkcafe.com

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Summit Auto Spa is a one-stop-shop service center.

Welcome to Summit Auto Spa, the High Country’s leading experts in paint protection

Paint Protection Film Ceramic Coatings Ceramic Window Tint Commercial Tint

Paintless Dent Repair Hail Repair Color Change Wraps Windshield Protection Film Detailing

Carfax listed, Insured, World-wide Warranty Network HighCountrySas.com 644 NC 105 Ext. Boone, NC 28607

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DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 9

Banner Elk Winery & Villa 60 Deer Run Lane Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9090 www.bannerelkwinery.com BE Scooped 144 Azalea Circle SE Banner Elk NC 28604 828-504-0684 https://www.bescooped.com Chef’s Table 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 (828) 898-5214 https://bannerelkvillage.com/chefstable/ Genuine Foods 844-436-3663 https://www.genuinecampusdining. com/ Highland’s Prohibition Kitchen 151 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 Prime 21 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 (828) 898-2100

RETAIL SHOPS Banner Elk Trading Company 117 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-1970 www.bannerelkvillage.com/bannerelk-trading-co/ BE Artists Gallery 185 Azalea Cir SE Banner Elk NC 28604, US 828-260-5389 www.beartistsgallery.com/ DeWoolfson Down 9452 NC Hwy 105 S Banner Elk NC 28604 828-963-4147 www.dewoolfsonlinens.com Hardin Fine Jewelry 920 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-4653 www.hardinfinejewelry.com/ Wraps Box & Ship 2331 Tynecastle Hwy #184 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9696

Primo 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 (828) 898-5214 Sorrento’s Italian Bistro 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5214 bannerelkvillage.com/ Williams Deli & Bakery 100 High Country Square, Suite 32 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-2300 Williamsdeliandbakery.com

10 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS Aspbury, Jenny Benbasat, Albert & Joan Berns, Ted Silver & Carol Brewer, Sara Brubaker, Mary Jo and Dan Coutts, David & Linda Dolab, Sharilynn & Charles Hahn, Bud & Silva Hansen, Susan Hendrix, Dan & Elizabeth Holt, Brenda Krege, Marion Lott, Tommy & Sherry Lyerly, Brenda McLendon, Jerry & Kathleen McNamee, Laura Newman, Dick & Joyce O’Connell, Paul & Susie Olan, Meredith and Tony

Ormond, Linda & Gene Petcoff, Thomas & Sally Privatte-Robinson, Sandra Ramo, Neil & Marilyn Randolph, Tamara Reynolds, Roy & Cathy Schaffel, Nancy Schaffer, Carol Seitz, William & Carol Simmons, Nancy & Stephen Snow, Roseanne Solomon, Sandy Finci Soyars, David & File, Mark Steele, Elizabeth Swinkola, Jim & Ann Tate, David L. Testani, Bob & Sandy Watts, Mary Williams, John & Linda Zimmer, Larry & Chris

SERVING THE HIGH COUNTRY’S PROPANE NEEDS IN WESTERN NC AND EASTERN TN SINCE 1992 The only locally owned and operated full service propane company based in Avery County, NC.

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TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS inside the Boone Mall and in Foscoe

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DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 11

BANNER ELK By The Numbers The following is a list of important area phone numbers for your convenience: Fire, Rescue, Police and Emergency: 911 Town of Banner Elk/Banner Elk Town Hall: (828) 898-5398 Avery County Chamber of Commerce: (828) 898-5605 Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce: (828) 898-8395 The Avery Journal Times newspaper: (828) 733-2448 Banner House Museum: (828) 898-3634 Banner Elk Police Department : (828) 898-4300 Banner Elk Fire Department: (828) 898-4623 Banner Elk Exxon: (828) 898-5210 Lees-McRae College: (828) 898-5241 Avery County Sheriff’s Office: (828) 733-2071

12 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

Avery County Schools: (828) 733-6006 Cannon Memorial Hospital: (828) 737-7000 Mountain Electric Cooperative: (828) 733-0159 Williams YMCA of Avery County: (828) 737-5500 Beech Mountain Resort: (828) 387-2011 Beech Mountain Police Department: (828) 387-2342 Beech Mountain Fire Department: (828) 387-4612 Sugar Mountain Resort: (828) 898-4521

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Meet the Municipality BANNER ELK

BY GIADA EHRESMAN

B

anner Elk has been called the crown jewel of Avery County, and for good reason as it is a more than postcard-perfect mountain town in the heart of the High Country. Led by a dedicated community, Banner Elk’s local government works hard to preserve the small-town charm while balancing infrastructure improvements and plans for the future.

At the head of local government is Mayor Brenda Lyerly who has served on the Town Council since 1987. The Town Council meets regularly at Banner Elk Town Hall to set policies, approve budgets, and address community concerns ranging from zoning to public services.

One of the defining issues of 2025 is the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene, which struck the High Country in September 2024. The storm caused widespread infrastructure damage to roads, water and sewer systems, parks, and other public facilities. Town staff, led by Town Manager Rick Owen, have spent months documenting damage, coordinating with state and federal agencies, and moving projects forward through thoughtful planning and bidding processes.

“Our community made unimaginable progress following the store with the opening of roads, the community resource center, and the restoration of water and sewer services,” said Owen in an April 2025 recovery update. The beautiful Tate-Evans Park suffered severely from the storm, requiring debris removal, grading, cleaning, seeding, and more. By June, the Park was declared open and Mountain T imes Publications

cleared, bridges being accessible, playgrounds open, the creek clear and debris being removed. This was just one important project town officials and staff have worked hard to bring back to Banner Elk. Key infrastructure efforts also included major repairs and upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant, Phase 1 improvements like new clarifier and piping, was slated for bidding this fall, showing active progress towards repairs and improvements.

What sets Banner Elk apart is the close connection between residents and their local government. Whether it’s attending council meetings, sharing feedback on planning proposals, or engaging in town life and activities, the collaborative spirit of the Banner Elk community ensures the town’s thriving success.

Some of these community events include the famous Woolly Worm Festival, musical Concerts in the Park, Art on the Greene, the Fourth of July Parade, and the snowy Small Town Christmas.

These events are full of fun, food, excitement, and memories.

As Banner Elk continues to rebuild, celebrate, and grow, the partnership between town leadership and its residents remains at the heart of its strength.

From repairing vital infrastructure to hosting beloved festivals that bring everyone together, the municipality’s work reflects a shared pride in this little mountain town. With committed leadership and a community that shows up year after year, Banner Elk’s future will always be bright and welcoming as a place so many are proud to call home.

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Banner Elk kids enjoy a barrel ride in the Fourth of July parade.

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Concerts at Tate-Evans Town Park are always a popular weekly event throughout the summer months in Banner Elk. DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 13

Banner Elk offers shopping options from

functional to sophisticated

BY BARB HOLDCROFT

B

anner Elk is home to many great shops and businesses. Whether you’re looking for homemade goods, woodwork decor or fresh produce, you’re sure to find those items and more right here in Banner Elk. Here are a few of the places well worth the time of stopping in to visit and browse while in town.

RETAIL SHOPS Banner Elk Trading Company 117 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-1970 - www.bannerelkvillage.com/bannerelk-trading-co/

CLOTHING Discounted Name Brands 2809 Tynecastle Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 783-9266 Searching for a great deal? Check out the Discounted Name Brands shop. They offer a wide variety of new, name-brand items for 30%-60% off.

BJ’s Resort Wear 145 Main St. W Banner Elk, NC (828) 898-4229 BJ’s Resort Wear offers high-end women’s clothing to ensure that you are up-to-date with the latest trends.

Expect friendly staff with good customer service which has been serving the BE community for more than 30 years.

The Dande Lion 4501 Tynecastle Hwy. #12 (828) 898-3566 Searching for the perfect outfit complete with shoes and accessories? The Dande Lion is a boutique that specializes in personal shopping and offers a stock that pairs with a wide variety of accessories.

Banner Elk Shirt Company 3175 Tynecastle Hwy (828)-898-4007 This shop offers a wide variety of shirts and hoodies in styles for every season.

It’s the perfect place to find a memento of your time spent in the mountains, and offers personalizing or gifts for those who didn’t make the trip.

Apple Hill Farm Outpost 414 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-2200 The shop offers a wide variety of fiber products: socks, scarves, hats and vests, along with a Fiber Arts Room with alpaca yarns. Local agriculture is also featured with food products from Avery County and beyond.

Footsloggers Outdoor & Travel Outfitters Lees-McRae College (828)-898-8932 Serving the High Country since 1971, Footsloggers has been recognized as the premier source for all outdoor gear.

A wide variety of casual and technical clothing is on display, along with just the equipment needed for an enjoyable trip.

Timber and Twine 163 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 478-6030 This family run boutique offers earthymodern home goods, gifts and lifestyle finds that will bring warmth and style to mountain living. They feature Happy Everything, Geometry Towels and more.

SPECIALTY FOODS Avery County Farmers’ Market 185 Azaela Circle SE Banner Elk, NC 28604 Avery County Farmers Market is a seasonal hub for organic and locally

14 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

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Downtown Banner Elk shopping.

grown produce, along with jams, jellies, and more. The market operates weekly at the site of the Historic Banner Elk School during the warmer months.

Erick’s Cheese and Wine 4004 NC-105 #18 (828) 898-9424 This shop offers unique cheese and wines from around the world. Treat yourself or find that perfect hostess gift.

JEWELRY Hardin Fine Jewelers 920 Shawneehaw Ave. S (828) 898-4653 Hardin Fine Jewelers features one-of-akind creations from jewelers all over the world. Stop by to see the variety of gems and unique designs.

ARTS It’s All About the Art 5004 NC 105 S

(828)-783-9233 This unique shop is filled with captivating works by emerging and established artists from around the world.

Browse beautiful oil and acrylic paintings, metal sculptures and jewelry.

Mountain Hugger Gallery 443 Shawneehaw S (828) 260-2025 This gallery features a wide variety of photography, including prints and cards featuring creative works by local artists and crafters. Also available are Mountain Hugger items: T-shirts, hoodies, caps and other gift items.

HOME AND GARDEN Mountain Emporium 500 MAIN ST. W (828) 898-1770 A visit to the Mountain Emporium reveals a wide selection of home furnishings and décor, from an eclectic Mountain T imes Publications

mix of furniture, art, wood sculpture to craftsman lighting, and more. Their Mountain Studios creates custom lighting that feature mountain motifs.

Creative Interiors 4501 Tynecastle Hwy. Unit 4 (828) 898-9636 Creative Interiors is a retail establishment and design firm that offers furniture, accessories, gifts and home goods.

Rustik by Underwood 12710 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-9663 Rustik by Underwood sells handcrafted natural wood furniture that will last through the years. They can design tables, benches and creative furniture for any lifestyle.

Avery Knifeworks 2750 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 850-9250 Each blade is handcrafted and is the

result of a lifetime spent outdoors. In addition to a wide variety of blades, the shop also features handmade carving boards, charcuterie boards, wallets and more.

PETS My Best Friends Barkery 176 Shawneehaw Ave. S (828) 898-5625

Mountaineer Garden Center and Florist 1757 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-5219

My Best Friends Barkery has something for every pet: food, toys, treats and beds.

They offer a wide variety of items that any dog or cat will love.

For finding that special Spring planting, the Mountaineer Garden Center provides a wide selection of shrubs, flowers, and houseplants. They also offer soil choices and expert advice.

SKIING AND OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS

Secret Garden Nursery 1947 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 387-7623 Easily identified by the multi-colored Adirondack chairs at the street, Secret Garden Nursery offers vibrant flowers, houseplants, and succulents. The Fall season brings choices of pumpkins and gourds, all designed to brighten up a mountain home.

Alpine Ski Center 3150 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-9701 Alpineskicenter.com Edge of the World 394 Shawnechaw Ave. S (828) 898-9550 Edgeoworld.com Extreme Snowboard and Skis 13071 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-7669

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My Best Friend’s Barkery offers pet snacks among many items.

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DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 15

Sips and brews aplenty to discover in Banner Elk

BY BARB HOLDCROFT

T

here are many options available for the visitor to Banner Elk to enjoy an adult beverage and relax. Choices range from award-winning wines to local craft beer to exploring a variety of beer labels and ciders, all in classic mountain settings.

BANNER ELK WINERY Banner Elk Winery is located near downtown in a mountain valley. It was founded by Angelo Accetturo and Richard Wolfe in 2006 and was the first commercial winery in Avery and Watauga counties. Founded on property that previously supported a blueberry farm, the winery offers a blueberry wine to pay tribute to that history.

The winery is known for award-winning wines from the grapes grown on the property as well as those sourced from other vineyards. The Marechal Foch, made from the French-American hybrid grape,

produces a red wine with intense flavors and color.

Today the winery produces nine wines on an annual basis: four reds (Cabernet Sauvignon, Marechal Foch, Banner Elk Red, High Country Rose’), three whites (Banner Elk White, Seyval Blanc, Vino Francesco Chianti White) and two dessert wines.

Banner Elk Winery is known for award-winning wines. The Banner Elk Red, which is a blend of Marechal Foch, Sangiovese and Merlot, was awarded the Gold Medal at the International Eastern Wine competition in Sonoma, California.

It was also named the best red hybrid at the North Carolina State Fair.

Visitors can enjoy a tasting, a glass or a bottle of wine either indoors or outdoors, which offers covered seating, several gazebos around a pond, and a fire pit. Live music is performed on the weekends.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa is

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Banner Elk Winery has garnered numerous awards for its fine wines and was the first commercial winery to open in the county.

16 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

located on 60 Deer Run and is open daily from 12 to 6 pm, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. More information is available at (828) 898-9090 or at www. bannerelkwinery.com.

GRANDFATHER VINEYARD AND WINERY Nestled among the vines at the base of Grandfather Mountain, and along the banks of the Watauga River, is the Grandfather Vineyard and Winery. This family-owned venture by Steve & Sally Tatum began planting vines in 2003 and has been producing wine 2011. Their son Dylan, a graduate of Surry Community College with a degree in viticulture and enology, is the winemaker.

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery offers both dry and sweeter wines. Some of the dry wines include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Rose’ Syrah and Pinot Noir. The winery uses North Carolina’s native muscadine grapes to produce the sweeter varieties. When the weather permits, the winery also produces ice wine which is made from grapes that have frozen on the vine. They also make a hard cider that combines heirloom apples and Asian pears using a process similar to brewing beer.

The tasting room offers sample flights, and wine by the glass or the bottle.

Visitors can spread out on the property along the river and bring their own food, or take advantage of the food truck on site Friday through Sunday while they listen to the live music presentations over the weekend.

Located at 225 Vineyard Lane, the Winery is open from noon to 6 p.m.

Monday to Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, call (828) 963-2400 or visit their website at www.grandfathervineyard.com.

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Grandfather Winery and Vineyard offers regular tastings and is a popular venue for live music.

KETTELL BEERWORKS Founded in 2010, Kettell Beerworks is the sole brewery located in Avery County.

Current owners Joe and Susan Royall bought the brewery in 2024 offering 10 to 12 styles of beer available. Four yearround offerings include Rollcast Kolsch, Top Coast IPA, Profile American Pale Ale, and Big Falls Nutty Brown Ale. A rotating variety of seasonal beers complement the staples, categorizing their beer in tiers. First Tier beers are for easy drinking, being the lowest in alcohol content. These would include a German Kolsch style ale, Copper Elk, an American amber ale, and Velvet Panda, which is an oatmeal stout.

Second Tier beers are slightly higher in ABV and include the Supernova IPA and Nymphomaniac, a Belgian style ale.

The third Tier offer unique and bold flavors. Offerings include Carbby Louie, and imperial IPA, and the Speak Easy, a Bourbon barrel-aged Baltic. Kettel Beerworks also produces seasonal ales for the Fall and Winter months.

The Beerworks is located at 567 Main St. and the taproom is open from noon to 8 p.m. on Wednesday through Saturday.

More information is available at (828) 898-8677 or at https://kettelbeerworks. com/ Mountain T imes Publications

BLIND ELK TAP ROOM The Blind Elk Tap room is an indoor/ outdoor tasting room that specializes in craft beer on tap, wine by the glass and Prosecco on tap. In addition to the 15 rotating craft beers on tap, they feature a fridge full of an extensive offering of more beer labels, hard ciders and hard seltzers. A snack menu offers a variety of nuts, cheese and pretzels, and a food truck is on site during the summer months.

They are located at 397 Shawneehaw Ave and can be reached at (828) 8982420 or at www.blindelk. com.

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Blind Elk Tap Room is a popular location with selection of more than a dozen craft brews, hard-to-locate bottled beers and indoor/outdoor seating which is flexible for any season.

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DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 17

Lees-McRae College

serving Banner Elk and region for 125 years

BY JAMIE SHELL

editor@averyjournal.com

B

ANNER ELK — Lees-McRae College, a private, four-year, co-ed residential institution nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, was founded in 1900 by Edgar Tufts. Nicknamed the “Campus in the Clouds,” LMC is 4,000 feet above sea level.

Tufts was an ordained minister with the Southern Presbyterian Church, and LeesMcRae is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, according to ncpedia.org.

Tufts wanted students to seek a useful occupation; they worked in the woodworking shop, built roads, laid power lines and made furniture according to NCpedia.org; in the classroom, they studied math, physics and chemistry. In the summer, the college was used as a resort, where students learned about hotel management.

It started out as an all-female high

school in 1899 and was named after Suzanna Lees and Elisabeth McRae. The school became Lees-McRae Institute in 1907.

In 1927, a fire consumed the Plumtree buildings, and the unit moved to Banner Elk, according to https://www.lmc.edu/ about/history.htm. Lees-McRae Institute became Lees-McRae College in 1931, gradually eliminating the high school department to form an accredited, coeducational junior college. In 1987, the Board of Trustees of Lees-McRae College voted to seek senior college status. In June of 1990, the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools granted Lees-McRae status as a senior (four-year) college.

To complement its four-year academic programs, Lees-McRae began offering degree completion programs in the early 2000s. The 2+2 programs enable students with existing associate degrees to complete their education at the

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In July of 2024, the ribbon was cut that opened the remodeled North Carolina Building at LeesMcRae. 18 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

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Mountain Day of Service is a way for Lees-McRae College students, staff and faculty give back to the community.

baccalaureate level. The institution serves these non-traditional learners at off-campus sites and through online learning. In 2018, the college added its first graduate program—a Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education.

Today, Lees-McRae offers 31 majors and 26 minors, according to the college’s website. In addition to the main campus, LMC also offers online and distance learning. The college reports a student body of more than 800 — which come from 34 states and 23 countries.

LMC was ranked among the top colleges and universities in the Southeast for being “a top performer on social mobility for 2020” by U.S. News and World Report.

The cost of attendance to live on campus as a first-year student at LMC is more than $56,000, according to the school’s website. However, many students cut significantly into that number with financial aid. For more information about

getting financial aid at LMC, call (828) 898-8740 or email at finaid@lmc.edu.

At Lees-McRae, students can join a fraternity or sorority, or the Nerd Club or Pre-Veterinary Club. In addition to offering nearly 20 clubs/organizations, the school also has a dining hall and offers health services.

Nicknamed the Bobcats, Lees-McRae competes as a NCAA Division 2 school in Conference Carolinas and has 25 athletic teams.

More than a hundred years after its founding, Lees-McRae continues the vision of the Rev. Tufts, inspiring students of the Southern Appalachian region and beyond.

LMC’s primary campus is located at 191 Main St. W in Banner Elk and the South Campus is at 158 Grandfather Home. Throughout 2025 the school celebrated the 125th anniversary of its founding with myriad events and commemorations.

Mountain T imes Publications

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An overhead view of the Lees-McRae College campus.

Lees-McRae College offers information sessions and campus tours six or seven days a week for prospective students and their families. Visitors can tour the campus, hear from current students, and get questions answered.

In the Spring of 2022, Lees-McRae College President Lee King announced the institution received a $30 million

Community Facilities Direct Loan from United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development for campus preservation and development at a special ceremony on April 1.

The college decided to use the loan to renovate buildings on campus.

Renovations have been made to multiple historic buildings and include installation

of fire suppression sprinklers, making the buildings Americans with Disabilities Code compliant, updating the wiring systems to bring them to current electrical code and converting Tennessee and Virginia resident halls into living-learning communities for first-year students.

Group tours for high schools and community organizations may also be

scheduled. LMC does limit these to one group per day, so please let LMC know as soon as possible if you are interested.

For more information on LMC, contact Director of Events and Campus Visitation McLean Bell at bellm@lmc.edu, click to www.lmc.edu, or call (828) 898-8729. Dr. Herbert Lee King, Jr. has been the school’s president since 2018.

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DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 19

Variety of cuisine present throughout Banner Elk

BY GIADA EHRESMAN

S

mall in size but big on flavor, Banner Elk has earned a reputation in the High Country as a vibrant food destination where locals and visitors alike can find everything from cozy cafes to elevated dining experiences.

Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast after a mountain hike or planning a special night out, the town’s dining scene delivers variety wrapped in small-town charm.

Start your day at Banner Elk Cafe & Tavern, a beloved downtown staple where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served with generous portions and friendly service. From fluffy pancakes and Southern classics to juicy burgers and rainbow mountain trout, it’s the perfect place to fuel up before exploring the area. Pair your meal with good company on the patio, or grab a coffee to go as you wander Main Street.

Banner Elk’s restaurant lineup stretches far beyond classic comfort food. Artisanal Restaurant stands out as one of the area’s premier dining experiences, blending fresh, seasonal

ingredients with refined presentation.

Often cited as a destination in its own right, Artisanal brings a bit of culinary theater to mountain dining, with dishes that showcase the region’s farmers and purveyors.

Right at the heart of Banner Elk, Stonewalls Restaurant stands as one of the town’s true dining icons. Serving hearty steaks, prime rib, seafood, and classic American fare since the mid1980s, Stonewalls has become a go-to spot for both everyday dinners and special celebrations. Its warm atmosphere and long-standing local legacy make it a cornerstone of downtown dining and a must-visit for anyone exploring Banner Elk’s culinary scene.

AJT FILE PHOTO For a truly A waffle cone from BE Scooped.

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Banner Elk Cafe and Tavern.

20 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

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The Bayou is a popular spot for cajun and other cuisine.

picturesque meal, don’t miss Epic Chophouse Eagles Nest, where sweeping views and premium steaks both shine.

Wrap up a foodie day with a visit to Sorrento’s Italian Bistro for pasta and wine, or elevate the evening even further with the Chef ’s Table at Sorrento’s, a reservation-only experience offering creative, chef-driven dishes in an intimate setting. Finally, savor local wine and mountain vistas at Banner Elk Winery, where tastings and small bites round out a perfect day.

For those who love a lively, neighborhood vibe, Town Tavern of Banner Elk offers classic pub fare, shareable apps, and plenty of space to catch a game or gather with friends.

Nearby, Blind Elk Tap Room pairs a rotating selection of local beers and drinks with laid-back food options — perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.

You can eat your way around the world right here at home: enjoy crisp tacos or sizzling fajitas at Puerto Nuevo Mexican & Seafood Restaurant, savor Cajun-inspired flavors at LP on Main,

or treat yourself to sushi and Asian dishes at Uncle Lee’s Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar. Each spot reflects the diversity of tastes found in this small but spirited mountain town. Bayou Banner Elk brings bold Louisiana flavors to the mountains, serving up favorites like gumbo, po’boys, and blackened seafood in a warm, welcoming setting. Just steps away, Highlanders Grill and Tavern adds to the town-center charm with mountaincasual dining, comfort favorites, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Barbecue lovers will feel right at home at The Pedalin’ Pig, known for its smoked meats, homemade sides, and friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere.

At The Village of Banner Elk, visitors can stroll a charming cluster of shops and restaurants in the very center of town, including Be Scooped, a local favorite for ice cream, sweet treats, and fun drinks—the perfect indulgence after any meal.

From casual bites to memorable meals with a view, Banner Elk’s dining scene is as welcoming as its mountain breeze. No matter where you sit down to eat — especially in the charming heart of town — you’re sure to find delicious food, warm hospitality, and plenty of reasons to come back for seconds.

Mountain T imes Publications

Banner Elk real estate market

a hot commodity for buyers to set roots

BY GIADA EHRESMAN

B

ANNER ELK — The hectic housing market of Banner Elk is showing signs of slowing down this year, giving buyers more choices and a little more breathing room than during the fast-paced market of the last few years.

Recent reports show that the average home value is around the mid$500,000s, staying mostly steady but no longer climbing at the rapid rate seen during the pandemic. Homes are also taking longer to sell, with many staying on the market for two to three months instead of disappearing in a matter of days.

Local real estate agents say this shift is due to more homes being available and less pressure from out-of-state buyers, creating a calmer and more balanced market. In many cases, homes are selling close to — or slightly below — their asking prices, another sign that buyers have a bit more negotiating power than before.

Banner Elk continues to offer a wide range of properties, from small condos and cozy mountain cabins to larger single-family homes and high-end residences. Because of this variety, prices can differ widely from one neighborhood to another. While some luxury homes still sell for over a million dollars, many everyday buyers are focusing on mid-priced homes and condos with easy access to town and outdoor recreation.

Despite the cooling trend, interest in Banner Elk remains strong. The area’s mountain views, outdoor activities, and small-town charm continue to draw both full-time residents and seasonal visitors looking for vacation homes.

For buyers, this means there are more choices than in recent years, and less Mountain T imes Publications

pressure to make an immediate offer.

For sellers, the market is still healthy, but pricing a home correctly and being patient are more important than before.

Homes that are well-maintained and realistically priced are still attracting steady interest.

The area is home to the ideal residence for both outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers. A place in or near downtown Banner Elk provides the sense of a typical small-town suburban environment, while places farther away from town can provide a more isolated, rustic environment.

The following is a list of only a few out of the many real estate brokers in the Banner Elk area. To learn more about the current real estate market in Banner Elk and to find a realtor that’s sure to fit your specific needs, call the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-8395.

Bear Real Estate 120 Azaela Cir. SE (828) 260-5338 bearrealestate.com If you’re looking for a place in Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, Sugar Mountain, Blowing Rock, Valle Crucis, Elk River, Newland or Crooked Creek, Bear Real Estate may be able to help out.

The company’s staff of well-trained realtors are ready to help you find your mountain dream home.

Eagles Nest Realty 51 Eagles Nest Lane (866) 399-5016 eaglesnestatbannerelk.com If you’re searching for a newer home with a stunning view, one of the homes in Eagles Nest may be a good option. Most of the homes have been

CONNECT

SUPPORT INSPIRE Beech Mountain’s Mile High Kite Festival Saturday May 23rd, 2026 Beech Mountain, NC averychambernc info@averycounty.com

The 49th Annual Woolly Worm Festival October 17th & 18th 2026 Downtown Banner Elk, NC woollywormfestivalnc hello@woollyworm

www.averycounty.com | (828) 898-5605 4501 Tynecastle Highway, unit 14, Banner Elk, NC 28604

u SEE ESTATE ON PAGE 22 DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 21

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Homes such as this one located in The Lodges at Eagles Nest could be available in the greater Banner Elk area through an area realtor. u ESTATE FROM PAGE 21

built recently, and the homes in the development sit along a mountainside, overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains landscape.

Banner Elk Realty 161 Silver Springs Drive (828) 898-9756 bannerelkrealty.com Banner Elk Realty has over four decades of experience working in the local real estate market. As the oldest real estate company in Banner Elk, the company is well-prepared to help you find your perfect new High Country home.

Engel & Völkers 610 Banner Elk Highway (828) 898-3808 bannerelk.evrealestate.com If you’ve got your heart set within the Elk River Club or the Banner Elk area, Engel & Völkers is more than happy to help. The company’s realtors are

equipped to help you find a home to fall in love with, allowing you to indulge in the area’s rich culture.

Antler Realty 146 Shawneehaw Ave. South (828) 898-3111 antlerrealty.net Antler Realty’s team is seasoned with experience in the real estate market, ensuring that they will help you find the home of your dreams. Their customerfocused approach means that they look for deals that work out in both the buyer and seller’s favor.

Ogle Realty 444 S. Beech Mountain Pkwy.

(828) 789-9426 oglerealty.com With years of experience in the High Country, Ogle Realty is prepared to find the best fit for every buyer. Its supportive team prioritizes the needs of the customers, whether they’re buying or selling, making it one of the many great real estate options in the area.

22 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

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Mountain T imes Publications

Civic organizations impact local communities

BY BARB HOLDCROFT

A

s is evidenced by the local response and recovery from Hurricane Helene, helping others is built into the lifestyle of residents in Banner Elk and in Avery County. There are several organizations that manage events with just that purpose throughout each year, whether there is a disaster or not.

The Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk has been involved in service to the area since 1968. Working from their motto “Improving the world one child and one community at a time” their focus is to make a difference in the lives of students. To that end, they sponsor two major fundraising events: the Woolly Worm Festival (in conjunction with the Avery County Chamber of Commerce), and the Rubber Duck Races in July.

The yearly Woolly Worm Festival, in October, has been in existence for 48 years, and the funds raised are divided at the conclusion of the weekend.

To receive funds, each organization must complete a grant request and the committee makes the decision regarding the disbursement for each group. In the past the funds have benefited many groups that work with youth: Scout Troops, teacher/educator groups, the Williams YMCA, Feeding Avery Families, the DARE program of the Avery County Sheriff ’s Office, and many more.

Kiwanis of Banner Elk meets for lunch on the first and third Tuesday of the month. More information can be found at info@bannerelkkiwanis.org.

Avery County Rotary Club is another volunteer organization that has been operating in the area since 1992. This group focuses on a variety of community-oriented goals that include mental health, care for the environment, promoting peace, fighting infectious diseases, and supporting education. As part of a much larger Mountain T imes Publications

international focus the goal of the local group is to address the immediate needs of the community by “thinking big, but acting locally.”

Local Rotarians are “famous” for their all-you-can-eat” breakfast events that are held in May, June, August and September at the Linville Land Harbor Recreation Center on select Saturday mornings. Proceeds from each of the breakfast are designated in advance for a specific organization, who will then receive their compensation when funds are disbursed in the Fall. Recent recipients have been Yellow Mountain Enterprises, Freedom Life, Feeding Avery Families and many others over the years.

Group members also sponsor other local activities, such as being part of the Adopt-A-Highway project. Rotarians also volunteer to assist with the parking detail at the annual Highland Games festivities held in July on the grounds of Grandfather Mountain. Another seasonal fundraiser is the sale of pecans at seven different locations in Avery County during the Holiday season.

Weekly meetings are held on Thursday at the Mayland Community College campus in Newland, aka the Avery Learning Center. Lunch is shared along with a presentation or a specific project arranged. Those interested in finding out more about the Rotarians should contact Sarah McGuire by email at averycountyrotary@gmail.com.

There are a great number of other civic organizations that are active in the Banner Elk and Avery County area. The following is a list of some of the options: • Avery Association for Exceptional Citizens (Adults with disabilities) • Avery County Educational Foundation (Educational Opportunities) • Avery County Habitat for Humanity (Affordable Housing ) • Avery County Historical Museum

AJT FILE PHOTO

Avery County Rotarians are involved in many service projects in the area, such as trash pickup along local roads and highways. In this image, Rotary members Neil Ramo, Melanie Bergin, Sarah McGuire, Michelle Scott, Dwight Schnirman, Katherine Schnirman and Kathy Kasprzak, as well as Margaret Thiele (not pictured) collected trash along a segment of Highway 194 (Cranberry Street) in Newland as part of the North Carolina Department of Transportation AdoptA-Highway program.

(Historical Preservation) • Avery Association of Exceptional Citizens • Avery County Educational Foundation • Avery County Habitat for Humanity (Animal adoption and care) • Avery County Historical Museum • Avery County Humane Society (Animal care and Adoption) • Avery County Shriners Club (Children) • Banner House Museum/ Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation (Historical Preservation) • Banner Elk Heritage Foundation • Beech Mountain Community Club (Community Club) • Children’s Hope Alliance (Children) • Disabled American Veterans Chapter 87 (Veterans organization) • Feeding Avery Families (Hunger) • High Country Caregivers Foundation (Care for the Elderly) • High Country Charitable Foundation (Philanthropy) • High Country United Way (Philanthropy) • MAY Coalition (Economic empowerment) • Move with Compassion Ministry

AJT FILE PHOTO

Banner Elk Kiwanis Club sponsors an annual Duck Race at Tate-Evans Town Park as part of the town’s Fourth of July festivities.

(Hunger, Clothing) • New Opportunity School for Women (Economic empowerment) • OASIS (Abuse and sexual assault) • Reaching Avery Ministry (hunger, clothing) • VFW Pat Ray Post 4286 (Veterans services) • Volunteer Avery (Community Service) • Women’s Fund of the Blue Ridge (Economic Empowerment) • WAMY Community Action (Economic empowerment) • Williams Academy (Children) • Yellow Mountain Enterprise (Adults with disabilities)

DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 23

Arts and culture in Banner Elk paint vibrant portrait across town

BY RILEY GLEASON

B

anner Elk has been known for years as a thriving haven for arts and cultural finds, as long-standing traditions, professional performances, and fresh creative initiatives come together across town. From outdoor festivals to gallery exhibitions and summer theatre, the community is set for a year filled with color, music, and local talent.

The Historic Banner Elk School will once again serve as the centerpiece of much of this activity. Its annual Art on the Greene shows will return over holiday weekends, bringing metalworkers, painters, ceramic artists, woodworkers, and jewelers to the lawn. The festival has grown into one of Banner Elk’s most beloved traditions, not only for its wide range of handcrafted work but also because proceeds support continued restoration of the historic school. The building remains one of the town’s most important cultural anchors, home to galleries, studios, and Ensemble Stage’s performance space.

Local galleries are also preparing for a steady year. The Banner Elk Artists Gallery plans to rotate new collections from regional artists, giving residents and visitors a chance to experience local creativity throughout the year. In nearby Banner Elk Township, the wellknown Art Cellar Gallery will continue to highlight contemporary mountain artists and makers, adding depth to the area’s visual arts offerings.

Live performance remains a cornerstone of Banner Elk’s cultural identity, and the upcoming slate from Ensemble Stage promises a mix of comedies, dramas and seasonal shows.

The professional theatre company has carved out a loyal following over the years, and its productions in the school

auditorium consistently draw full houses.

Just up the hill, Lees-McRae College is preparing for its summer theatre series, which brings students, faculty, and visiting professionals together to present a string of musicals and plays.

These shows have long been a highlight of the warm-weather months and help cement Banner Elk as a hub for regional performing arts.

Music will once again spill into parks, porches, and gathering spaces all over town as outdoor performances return for the season. Free community concerts, small-venue shows, and the continuation of regional “summer of music” programming ensure there will be live tunes most weeks, ranging from bluegrass and Americana to classic rock and local favorites. Residents

AJT FILE PHOTO

The 99-seat Hahn Auditorium at Ensemble Stage in Banner Elk is often filled to capacity for topflight performances throughout the year.

have come to rely on these concerts as a dependable space for families, neighbors, and visitors to gather on warm evenings.

Rounding out the year’s cultural calendar are Banner Elk’s signature community events, including fall festivals and craft fairs. The mix of local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment keeps these traditions lively while drawing crowds from across the High Country.

With long-running programs returning and new creative efforts taking shape, Banner Elk’s upcoming arts and culture season reflects the town’s growing reputation as a small mountain community with an impressive artistic footprint. From festival weekends to packed theatre nights, the months ahead promise plenty for residents to enjoy in their own backyard.

Our Mountain Home

AJT FILE PHOTO

The Art Cellar Gallery in Banner Elk, just minutes from downtown, features drawings and sketches from the private studios of prominent artists such as Ben Long and Tony Griffin. Long’s works are featured across the High Country in churches in Ashe County, as well as the Sloop Chapel at Williams Academy in Crossnore.

24 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

BANNER ELK, NORTH CAROLINA | WWW.LMC.EDU | 828.898.5241

Mountain T imes Publications

Banner Elk Before the Banners

BY MICHAEL C. HARDY Special to The AJT

M

any of our local communities are named for prominent local families.

Most residents and even most visitors know that the name of Banner Elk is tied to the Banner family, but there is a long history of settlement centered around the area that is today Banner Elk, a history that actually predates the Banners themselves and which has other names stamped upon it.

The story of how the Banner family came to the region is a well-known piece of local history. Martin L. Banner traveled into these parts from Forsyth County about 1848; he promptly bought property and built a cabin. He soon became bored with his surroundings and sold out to the

Mountain T imes Publications

Dugger family. Banner then moved on to Carter County, Tenn. Martin eventually returned to the area a few years later and settled in the Montezuma community.

In 1856, Lewis Banner, a brother to Martin, moved to the area and purchased 200 acres of land on Elk Creek. He brought with him his five sons and three daughters.

They are the ones who gave the name “Banner” to Banner Elk. A post office called Banner’s Elk opened on June 16, 1875. Today, Banner Elk is considered one of the premier vacation sites in western North Carolina.

However, there were pioneers in the area prior to the Banners. One of the first was David Hix. About the same time that Samuel Bright was settling down near the present-day

AJT FILE PHOTO

An outside view of the Banner House Museum around the Independence Day holiday.

site of the Avery County Airport, near Ingalls, David Hix was settling in the Valle Crucis area of Watauga County. His home was surrounded by a palisade wall and was generally known as Hix’s Fort. He was living there with his family, including his two sons, Samuel and David; his two sonsin-law, Thomas and Mikel Asher; two other men named Lucus and Asher, and a hired

woman named Ireland, along with her daughter, Jenny.

Born in Goochland County, Va., about 1719, Hix lived in Surry County, along Peters Creek for eight or 10 years prior to coming to Valle Crucis. A writer in 1885 described Hix as a “man of great strength u SEE BANNER ON PAGE 26

DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 25

u BANNER FROM PAGE 25

and power of endurance, a skillful hunter and woodsman, simple in his habits, of a kind and accommodating disposition and possessed of many good traits.”

For a brief amount of time, the group moved further down the Watauga River, living near Dugger’s Iron Works in what is present-day Carter County. It was here that Jenny was abducted, probably by the Shawnee; she lived for seven years near the Ohio River and married one of their warriors. She was later purchased by some “Indian traders” and was eventually able to return to her mother.

Hix lived at Dugger’s Iron Works for maybe a year before returning to Valle Crucis. One source puts him back on the upper section of the Watauga River about 1776 or 1777. As the American Revolution broke out on the frontier as well as in the more populated sections of the Colonies, Hix’s position became more complicated and difficult. In fact, it is not even very

clear where his loyalties actually were.

One source considered Hix a Tory, while another considered him to be of a more neutral position. Clearly, Col. Benjamin Cleveland, Patriot leader and legendary foe of Tories in the backcountry, believed Hix was an enemy to the Patriot cause. At one point, Cleveland traveled from Wilkesboro and laid siege to Hix’s Fort. After a few days, Hix believed that Cleveland had retreated, and when the settlers ventured forth, Cleveland ambushed them, killing Hix’s son-in-law Mikel Asher and wounding David Hix. Cleveland’s men then plundered Hix’s Fort.

Hix had additional problems not connected to the Revolution. In another instance, Hix allowed some cattle drovers to stay at his fort. Moving livestock through the backcountry to reach a market could be an arduous process. However, after the presumed drovers had left the fort, a group came from Wilkes County looking for them. It seems the cattle were actually stolen. The posse caught up with them

and killed the cattle rustler, a man named Grimes.

At some point, it appears that the Hix family fled their fort in Valle Crucis. The family came to the area near presentday Banner Elk, presumably at some point during the American Revolution.

John Preston Arthur, in his history of Watauga County, tells us that Hix eventually “became uneasy and retired to the wilderness near what is now Banner Elk, where he made camp and supported himself by hunting and making maple syrup and sugar, thus avoiding service as an American or a Tory.” Hix did manage to avoid swearing allegiance to either side during the war. Arthur goes on to tell us that people 100 years ago still plowed up coal “near the Lybrook farm, near the Grandfather Orphanage” and that local people knew the area as the Hix Improvement, “that being the place here Samuel Hix ‘laid out during the Revolutionary War.’” It is possible that David Hix died in the

Banner Elk area in 1792 or 1793. His will, drawn up by a resident from Washington County (now Tennessee), was probated in Wilkes County.

John Preston Arthur tells us that there “were no clearings of any extent at Banner Elk, except those at the Hix Improvement, which was very small, and at Big Bottoms but there were two ‘deadenings,’ one called the Moses Deadening and the other the Lark Chopping.” These last two were probably locations where trees had been cut in such a way where their death was certain, thus opening up new ground for cultivation.

Arthur also tells us that David Hix soon had neighbors: Baker King and Ben Dugger. There are plenty of Duggers still in the area. Members of the Hix family are also still here in Avery County, but, over time, the name has morphed into the more familiar Hicks. Though there were others seeking to settle in the region well before the 1840s, it would be the Banner family whose name would stick to the community.

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WINERIES • BREWERIES • CASUAL & FINE DINING GALLERIES • BOUTIQUES • THEATER • COZY LODGING 26 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

BannerElk.com Mountain T imes Publications

‘Billy’ predicts true High Country winter at annual

Woolly Worm Festival STAFF REPORT

B

ANNER ELK — The streets of Banner Elk came alive on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18 and 19, as thousands gathered for one of the High Country’s most cherished and long-running fall traditions, the 2025 Woolly Worm Festival.

Celebrating its 48th year, the two-day event once again brought together locals and visitors from across the Southeast to race woolly worms, celebrate mountain culture and keep alive one of Avery County’s most unique pieces of folklore.

This year’s festival carried special meaning, marking the first celebration without the late Roy Krege, better known to all as “Mr. Woolly Worm.” Krege had served as the festival’s emcee and ambassador for decades, known for his trademark suspenders, booming voice and unshakable sense of humor that defined the event for nearly half a century. Organizers paid tribute to him throughout the weekend with photos, memories and stories from those who knew him best.

Saturday’s races drew record-setting crowds, with estimates topping 15,000-plus visitors, making it one of the largest woolly worm festival gatherings in recent years.

The sun broke through the clouds midmorning as Main Street filled with laughter, music and the sounds of cheers from hundreds of worm races taking place on the festival’s signature racing boards.

Lined shoulder to shoulder, participants, young and old, coaxed their chosen worms to the top using shouts, whistles and good-natured coaching. The final race of the afternoon crowned Maribel Murphy, visiting from Indiana, and her lightningfast worm “Billy” as the 2025 champion.

The victory came with a $1,000 grand prize and the even greater honor of predicting the upcoming winter weather for the High Country. According to longheld tradition, the winning worm’s 13 body segments represent the 13 weeks of winter, with each band’s color indicating Mountain T imes Publications

conditions for that week, dark stripes for cold and snow, lighter ones for warmth.

As Billy’s coat was examined, judges and onlookers leaned in close, ready for the moment that defines every Woolly Worm Festival. Billy’s body showed a heavy run of black and amber bands up front, a short stretch of brown through the middle, and another dark section near the tail. Festival organizers interpreted the pattern to mean a cold, snowy start, a brief mild spell midseason, and a frosty, below-average finish heading into late December. The prediction was met with approving laughter and the kind of good-natured grumbling that comes from locals who know all too well what mountain winters can bring.

“If Billy’s right,” Tommy Burleson said with a grin, “you’d better find your snow shovel before Thanksgiving.”

Sunday dawned gray and misty, the kind of October mountain morning that hinted at the winter Billy had just foretold.

Rain moved in early but never managed to wash out the fun. While the damp weather thinned the crowd slightly, it didn’t stop the racing. Families still lined the track under umbrellas, cheering on their favorites as the smell of coffee and funnel cakes filled the cool air.

“Saturday was absolutely wild, and Sunday slowed down a bit because of the weather, but it never stopped,” said Victoria Bowman, executive director of the Avery County Chamber of Commerce. “That’s the spirit of this community. Rain or shine, the Woolly Worm Festival always brings people together.”

Sunday’s championship produced another local highlight as Fernando and Javier, chefs from Beech Mountain Club, raced their worm “Marshmallow” to victory, claiming a $500 prize and plenty of hometown cheers. By the afternoon, despite the drizzle and gusty wind that eventually pushed vendors to pack up early, Bowman said the event had still exceeded expectations.

AJT FILE PHOTO

Maribel Murphy from Indiana with her worm, “Billy” the winner in Saturday’s championship race.

Billy had the honor of predicting the 2025 winter forecast for the High Country.

“We saw some of the biggest crowds we’ve had in years,” she said.

Beyond the races, the festival grounds pulsed with the sound of live music that echoed through the streets all weekend, bringing in a fresh slate of artists while keeping the festival’s mountain roots intact.

Saturday’s stage saw performances from the Preston Benfield Band, David Wiseman Band, Tasha Ann Band and Aaron Walker, each mixing high-energy country and Appalachian flair. Sunday’s schedule featured local favorites Adam Church, Pressley Laton and Blu Waters, whose blend of acoustic rock and mountain soul kept the crowd swaying even as the clouds rolled in.

Between sets, the festival’s mascots, Merriweather and Mistiweather, roamed the streets posing for photos and handing out high-fives, while the smell of barbecue, roasted nuts and sweet kettle corn filled the mountain air.

Craft vendors and artisans lined the grounds with everything from handmade jewelry and wood carvings to Appalachian jams and woolly-worm-themed souvenirs.

Children’s laughter rang out from the kids area. Local nonprofits, civic groups, and schools manned booths throughout the park as well as local parking lot areas, using the event as both a fundraiser and a community outreach.

The Woolly Worm Festival’s charm has always rested in its blend of folklore and friendship, and this year proved no different. The event remains a vital fundraiser for the two primary sponsors of

Avery County Chamber of Commerce and Banner Elk Kiwanis, as well as numerous local groups, helping promote tourism and small business across the region. Visitors came from as far as Florida, Ohio, and even Colorado, many marking the festival as a yearly pilgrimage.

“It’s one of those things you can’t really explain until you’ve seen it,” attendee Stephanie Scott said, holding a souvenir worm in a small box. “You come for the laughs and leave with a little piece of the mountains.”

This year, without Roy Krege’s familiar voice calling the races, there was a quiet sense of gratitude threaded through the celebration, gratitude for the man who helped make the Woolly Worm Festival what it is and for the community that continues to carry it forward.

By late Sunday evening, as the vendors packed up and the last notes of live music faded, organizers and volunteers were tired, but proud. The Woolly Worm Festival not only serves as a harbinger of winter in the High Country, but also serves as a gathering place for stories, smiles and shared traditions that define life in Avery County.

As the 2025 Woolly Worm Festival crawls into the history books, Avery County can rest assured that despite the adversity of recent years, both the tradition and the forecast are alive and well. And if Billy’s stripes are right, the mountains are in for an early start to a long, cold and snowy winter.

DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 27

offers walking trail, playgrounds, outdoor amphitheater

STAFF REPORT

T

ate-Evans Park, located in downtown Banner Elk on Highway 194, includes the Tate-Evans Park with a Greenway walking trail, playgrounds, picnic tables and an amphitheater for the summer live music series.

The park is a striking symbol of the dedication of the town of Banner Elk to providing its residents with the best in public services, including recreation.

Rather serving any single purpose, TateEvans Town Park is designed to be used for a number of purposes and events, and the residents of Banner Elk put it to good use. Whether for daily exercise, family functions or community congregations, Tate-Evans Town Park serves as a central gathering place for the tightly knit Banner Elk community.

While Tate-Evans Park provides a setting for a variety of familiar, familyoriented outdoor activities, including a walking trail, wading pools, volleyball court, outdoor grills, picnic tables, picnic shelter, two playground areas, the park also serves as a venue for a variety of exciting scheduled events sponsored by the town, local organizations and businesses.

Tate-Evans Town Park includes an amphitheater that plays host to Banner Elk Concerts in the Park each Thursday night beginning in June.

A variety of other festivities are also centered around the park, including the popular “Party in the Park” during the Fourth of July celebration, as well as holiday activities during Halloween and Christmas seasons.

In addition to community events, families often take advantage of the park’s many facilities, which include restrooms open from April to September. Banner Elk families regularly host birthday parties, reunions and weddings at different sites around the park’s beautiful grounds. Town

leaders recognize the popularity of TateEvans Town Park and continues to enhance the facility with various construction projects and upgrades, including new public restrooms, seating and picnic shelter on the grounds.

The Greenway adjacent to the park has about 1.1 miles of paved trails – including a loop inside the park. In addition to a trail for walking your dog, there is a fenced dog park. Walks can be extended through Lees-McRae College campus or down Shawneehaw Avenue (Highway 184) to the footbridge by the Mill Pond.

To extend the walk more, turn right onto Hickory Nut Gap Road and then make another quick right onto Mill Pond Road by the lake. Walk past the dam and May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center.

Keep a close eye out for birds and check out upcoming programs and tours. It’s recommended to return via the bridge across Elk River that takes you into the college campus. Across the road from the bridge, find Hemlock Trail for a half-mile hike through the woods (part of-Lees McRae mountain bike trails).

Hurricane Helene that struck the High Country in September damaged portions of the Banner Elk area, including portions of the park, so it is advisable to contact the Town Hall to inquire about the park’s condition prior to planning a visit. The park continues to remain open, as projects continue to not only return the park to its original beauty, but to also enhance the park with additional infrastructure to ensure its continued significance as an oasis of beauty and pride to the town.

While Tate-Evans Park and its walking trails meander near much of downtown Banner Elk, the most direct entrance is right next to Banner Elk Town Hall, located at 200 Park Avenue. For more information, call (828) 898-5398, or click to www.townofbannerelk.org/recreation/ town-parks.

28 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

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Mountain T imes Publications

Places of Worship in Banner Elk

BY GIADA EHRESMAN

F

rom historic congregations to newer fellowships, Banner Elk offers a diverse landscape of places of worship that contribute to the town’s cultural, social, and community-oriented identity. These faith communities have long served as gathering points not only for spiritual life but also for connection, service, and shared traditions that bring residents together.

One of the most recognizable houses of worship in town is Banner Elk Presbyterian Church. Established in 1893, this historic congregation has played an important role in shaping both the spiritual and civic life of Banner Elk for more than a century.

Located near Lees-McRae College, the stone church is known for its distinctive architecture and its commitment to

community involvement. In addition to weekly worship services, the church hosts music programs, educational gatherings, and outreach efforts that support local needs throughout the High Country.

Another longstanding congregation is Arbor Dale Presbyterian Church, founded in 1903. Originally organized as a Sunday School, Arbor Dale has since grown into a full congregation that welcomes individuals and families of all ages. Its history reflects the early development of the Banner Elk area, and today it continues to serve as a steady presence in the community.

For those looking for a nondenominational environment, Banner Elk Christian Fellowship offers a welcoming space focused on community, teaching, and connection. Seasonal events—

such as Thanksgiving meals, potlucks, and Christmas gatherings—provide opportunities for residents and visitors to come together in a relaxed and communal setting.

Banner Elk’s religious landscape also includes Mt. Calvary Baptist Church and the Banner Elk Church of Christ, both of which serve local residents through traditional services, fellowship activities, and community support programs.

These congregations add to the variety of Christian traditions represented in the area.

Two additional options, Banner Elk United Methodist Church and Holy Cross Episcopal Church, offer liturgical services and seasonal events that appeal to individuals seeking different worship traditions. These churches often

host community programs, holiday observances, and outreach initiatives open to people from across the region.

The town is also home to the Banner Elk Seventh Day Adventist Church, where members gather for Sabbath services, Bible study, and health- and community-focused programs.

Across Banner Elk, these places of worship serve a purpose beyond weekly services. Many offer youth groups, meals, volunteer opportunities, music events, and holiday celebrations that foster connection and support within the community.

Whether residents attend for spiritual reasons, social engagement, or cultural interest, Banner Elk’s congregations contribute to the welcoming, communitycentered spirit that defines life in this mountain town.

Banner Elk’s hiking trails

set for busy season as locals, visitors head outdoors

BY RILEY GLEASON

B

ANNER ELK — With warmer months ahead, Banner Elk is preparing for one of its busiest outdoor seasons yet, as hikers turn their attention to the wellloved trails, overlooks, and high-elevation adventures that surround the town. From easy creekside walks to some of the most iconic summits in the region, Banner Elk continues to stand out as one of the High Country’s top destinations for mountain exploration.

One of the most popular spots for local hikers is Beech Mountain, just a few minutes from downtown Banner Elk. Its network of trails including the Emerald Outback Trail System offers miles of wooded paths, rolling ridges, and cool summer temperatures at over 5,000 feet.

Mountain T imes Publications

The Pond Creek Trail remains a favorite for families, with its gentle grade, mossy forest floor, and quiet creek crossings.

Another standout destination is the Tate-Evans Park Trail, located right in Banner Elk. This short, easy loop is perfect for casual walkers, dog owners, and families with young children. With its paved paths, picnic shelters, and open green spaces, the park serves as one of the town’s central outdoor gathering places.

For those looking for more challenging terrain, the Elk River Falls area offers a rewarding hike just outside Banner Elk. The trail leads to a dramatic 50-foot waterfall that crashes into a deep pool below. It’s a short but rugged path, and the waterfall is one of the most photographed natural features in the region.

Just a short drive away, hikers can

access some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Eastern United States at the Roan Highlands. Trails like Round Bald, Jane Bald, and Grassy Ridge provide sweeping, 360-degree views from open grassy mountaintops. The area is especially stunning in June, when thousands of blooming rhododendrons turn the ridgeline shades of pink and purple.

Farther along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain State Park remains one of the region’s leading hiking attractions. Trails such as Profile Trail and Grandfather Trail are steep, rocky, and strenuous, but they offer unmatched views and the chance to traverse ladders and cables along the cliffs. For experienced hikers, Grandfather Mountain continues to be one of the most iconic challenges near Banner Elk.

Even during the cooler months, Banner Elk’s outdoor spaces stay active.

Snowshoeing on Beech Mountain trails, winter hikes at Otter Falls, and quiet walks through town keep residents outside yearround.

Local outdoor groups and trail stewards remind hikers to carry water, check trail conditions, and prepare for quick weather changes especially on high elevation hikes like Roan and Grandfather.

With its blend of in town paths, familyfriendly routes, and bucket-list mountain summits, Banner Elk remains a haven for hikers of all skill levels. As spring and summer approach, the town once again prepares to welcome explorers eager to experience the best outdoor scenery the High Country has to offer.

DECEMBER 2025 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • 29

A journey through time IN BANNER ELK

BY JAMIE SHELL

editor@averyjournal.com

T

he town of Banner Elk boasts a long and rich history dating back almost two centuries. The following is a sampling of images taking viewers back in time to what made Banner Elk past and present the quintessential American town.

PHOTO COURTESY HUNTSVILLE TIMES

AJT FILE PHOTO

Von Cannon’s Ford dealership in Banner Elk.

Then-U.S. Vice President Richard M. Nixon breaks ground on the new Grace Hartley Memorial Hospital, which became the original Charles A. Cannon Memorial Hospital in Banner Elk. Pictured with him are Mrs. Pat Nixon and Mrs. W.C. Tate.

AJT FILE PHOTO

A highway marker placed in Banner Elk honors one of the town’s more widely known citizens, Shepherd Monroe Dugger, who was touted on the marker as ‘educator and humorist.’

PHOTO COURTESY TATE FAMILY

PHOTO COURTESY ASHEVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES

Students Kitty Roberts and Carol Bowman inspected some of the ice cut from the Mill Pond near LeesMcRae College in 1940.

William C. Tate (pictured far right, front row) and Ronda H. Hardin (third from right on front row) led the staff at Grace Hospital in the 1930s.

Byron Pritchett, the hospital’s laboratory technician, is in the front row wearing a white coat and necktie. Behind and to his left is Mary Chappell, a senior nurse on the hospital staff. Pauline Lawrence, a nurse anesthetist, is to Chappell’s left.

30 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

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32 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2025

828-260-3673

2025

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk cornerstonerentals.com

The High Country’s Best Space for Gatherings

• Newly built barn with 1,700 sq. ft., and 18 ft. high ceilings • Barn equipped with a complete catering kitchen • 1,750 sq. ft. outdoor pavilion with fire pit • Lodge and cabin rentals • Fields, streams, and ponds

828-260-3673

2025

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk cornerstonerentals.com

2025

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