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Top Events in Blue Ridge for 2018

Blue Ridge is home to an amazing community of families that love amazing local food, cultural arts programs, scenic outdoor activities, and historical sites that transport you to another century. With an active residential population and a growing number of tourists and visitors, there are more reasons than ever before to visit year round. Top events in Blue Ridge, GA are happening each season, and we guarantee there’s something everyone in your family will enjoy.

February 2018

Fire and Ice Chili Cook Off:

Get ready! The 7th annual Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off is “so hot, it’s cold”! The festival unites chili cooking with competitive ice sculpting in one of the most unique events in Blue Ridge. With live music, ice sculptures and amazing chili to taste, you can buy a $10 card to sample all of the competition and vote on your favorite chili while checking out the ice carving demonstrations.

March 2018

St Patrick’s Day Parade:

Taking place on St. Patrick’s Day in 2018, one of the highly anticipated Blue Ridge 2018 events is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, sponsored by The Boro Inn Irish Pub. Gather with other families in Blue Ridge to see musicians, local groups, organizations and vendors march through Blue Ridge to celebrate.

April 2018

Trout Festival:

On April 28, Downtown City Park will celebrate all-things trout fishing in the 3rd annual Blue Ridge Trout Festival! The festival is also hosts an educational seminar series where fishers and families can learn about conservation, fish hatcheries, equipment, tips for trout fishing and more. Meet other trout fishing enthusiasts and enjoy one of the most popular things to do in Blue Ridge!

Spring Fest Arts and Crafts:

For two weekends each April, the Spring Fest Arts and Crafts Sale at the State Farmers Market in Blue Ridge brings dozens of vendors together. The free event, which is sponsored by Fannin County Fire Explorer Post 401, showcases vendors’ homemade work in pottery, wood carvings and quilts, as well as homemade snacks, canned goods and other one-of-a-kind items.

Taste of Blue Ridge:

The annual Taste of Blue Ridge is a foodie lover’s dream. This special event each spring unites visitors and locals for truly exceptional culinary experiences. The Taste of Blue Ridge is all about local cuisine and fresh ingredients, highlighting some of the best dishes Georgia has to offer.

May 2018

Arts in the Park (Spring):

This very popular art show and series prove why Blue Ridge was named of the the top five art towns in Georgia and one of the top ten fine craft towns in the country! Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this festival series attracts over 13,000 people who are able to see work from almost 200 artists.

Georgia Mountain Classic Car Show:

The Classic Car Show features over 100 cars with door prizes and trophies for many of the vehicles on display. For car fans, the local concessions and attractions make the day fun for the whole family.

June 2018

Independence Day Fireworks:

One of the most popular events in Blue Ridge is the Independence Day Fireworks show! Next year the show will take place on June 30 at the Lake Blue Ridge Marina, but you can also get spectacular views from the Dam and Morganton Point Recreation Area.

August 2018

Denim & Diamonds:

Benefitting the Georgia Mountains Hospice organization, this charity event held each August brings people in Blue Ridge together for a night out in their best denim pants, boots and sparkly bling. The night’s filled with music and dancing, along with a silent auction and dinner.

September 2018

Blues & BBQ Festival:

You can start the Blues & BBQ Festival off right by participating in a BBQ restaurant crawl the night before (and if you visit all participating restaurants and bars, you get into the festival for free!). Then spend your Saturday eating BBQ, tasting local beers, and listening to some incredible Blues music. A portion of proceeds from the festival also go to support Snack in a Backpack.

October 2018

Arts in the Park (Fall):

Similar to the event that happens in Blue Ridge each spring, the Arts in the Park each October highlights work from local artists and brings in more than 8,000 visitors each year.

Georgia Apple Festival:

Do you like apple pie? Apple ice cream? Apple tarts? Apple candies? Apple candles? Pretty much anything that apples could be for? You need to check out the famous Georgia Apple Festival that runs for two weeks each October, showcasing all things apple. There’s also a popular parade and antique car show.

Home Builders Showcase:

Taking place on the first Saturday in October, the Home Builders Showcase is a free event that features local architects, builders, and cabinet makers, along with lenders, realtors, insurers, and furnishing representatives.

Paws in the Park:

This annual event hosted by the Humane Society of Blue Ridge invites pet owners and animal lovers alike to participate in a pet parade, costume contest, photo shoots, and the Paws in the Park 5K through Blue Ridge to support the society.

Fall Festival:

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to enjoy the scenery and weather in Blue Ridge. This 9-day festival features performances, craft artists, demonstrations by local organizations, and flower shows. The highlight of the event though is the Georgia Official State Fiddler’s Convention.

November 2018

Light Up Blue Ridge (Saturday after Thanksgiving):

Mr. and Mrs. Clause will make their way into Blue Ridge on the famous train Saturday morning. Come out and see the Santa in the park, grab a bite downtown and take your place for the evening Christmas parade before the majestic tree lighting. It’s a magical tradition for all!

December 2018

Mountain Country Christmas in Lights:

The Mountain Country Christmas in Lights is a light show you and your family can walk through while enjoying caroling singers, seasonal food, arts & crafts, and other entertainment. Located on the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, this Christmas light show is the place to be throughout the month of December.

Whether you love fishing, food, music, crafts, parades, holiday lights, animals or all of the above, the top events in Blue Ridge in 2018 are for everyone in the family. Locals and tourists alike will love the social, cultural, and historic richness that Blue Ridge events have to offer, making a Blue Ridge vacation a perfect bucket list addition to your new year!

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