22 | Special Section
Facebook.com/TheReporterNewspapers ■ instagram.com/Reporter_News
Mountain Fun Arts, music, cars, and moonshine all on tap in N. Georgia, Tennessee & NC BY COLLIN KELLEY If you’re planning a trip to the mountains this summer, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained as events sidelined last year by the pandemic return to North Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina. The events calendar is packed with outdoor fun, and while you’ll still need to follow social distancing rules, things are definitely looking more “normal” with something to do for all ages and interests. We rounded up these recommendations to add to your itinerary this summer.
R-Ranch Mountain Top Rodeo June 11, Dahlonega R-Ranch’s 32nd Annual Mountain Top Rodeo on June 11 in Dahlonega, GA will have food trucks, live entertainment, kids’ activities, and full rodeo including the popular bull riding event. Tickets and details at facebook.com/MountainTopRodeo.
Asheville Art in the Park There’s always something to do in Asheville, NC, but if you’re heading up for a weekend getaway in June, be sure to check out Art in the Park at Pack Square Park in downtown on June 12, 19 and 26. Artists from across the region will have their work for display and sale. Find out more at exploreasheville.com.
▼Highlands Motoring Festival June 10-13 Highlands, NC More than 75 classic cars will be on and display at the 14th annual event in Highlands, NC June 10-13. Most of the action will take place at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. Find out more at highlandsmotoringfestival.com.
▲Wanderlingerfest – Music, Art & Beer Festival Chattanooga, TN’s Wanderlinger Brewing Company will be rocking June 1820 with three days of local music, beer, art, and food. The event is for ages 21 and up. Some of the bands playing include Strung Like a Horse, Cold Planet, Opposite Box, Milele Roots, Behold The Brave and Lenox Hills. For tickets and information, visit wanderlingerfest.com.
Freedom in the Forest Retreat Celebrate the Summer Solstice in Blue Ridge, GA June 18-22 with this special event featuring daily hiking, yoga, meditation, swimming, organic meals and more. Reservations and and information at wildwoodmagic.com.
▲Georgia Mountain Arts & Crafts Festival Head to the Georgia Mountain Fairground in Hiawassee, GA June 4-6 for a weekend of arts and crafts by skilled local artisans. You’ll find pottery, painting, jewelry, signs, crochet, knitting, candles, soap, and more. Details at georgiamountainfairgrounds.com.
Blue Ridge Mountains Wine and Jazz Festival The June 26 event in Blue Ridge, GA will feature a selection of diverse wines from around the world and those made locally in North Georgia and North Carolina. There will also be food prepared by local chefs and top jazz performers from the region. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs. Find out more at blueridgecountry.com.
Georgia Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In Enjoy three fun-filled days of “hillbilly fun” at Meeks Park in Blairsville, GA July 29-31 with a swap meet, live music, real moonshine, mountain crafts, and plenty of classic cars, trucks, bikes, rat rods and more. Find out more at gammoonshinecruizin. com.
▲North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival Mayors Park in Young Harris, GA will play host to this festival June 4-6 featuring more than 75 fine arts and crafts exhibits, live music, and the opportunity to chow down on some serious seafood. Find more information at northgeorgiahighlandsseafoodfestival.com.
▲Live at Paradise Hills Winery Paradise Hills Winery in Blairsville, GA will host an evening of vino and music on June 19 from 5 to 9 p.m. featuring music by Trailer Hippies. Expect mountain, folk, homespun music and a groovy down to earth vibe. Find out more at paradisehillsga.com.
Georgia Mountain Fair The 70th annual Georgia Mountain Fair will be held in Hiwassee, GA Aug. 13-21. There will be musical performances, arts & crafts, carnival rides, unique attractions and more. Visit georgiamountainfairgrounds.com for tickets and details. Continued on page 24 SS