Do you love the autumn season and fall festivals?
Fall is a particularly special time of year here in Helen, Georgia. Not only do we get to enjoy breathtaking views of the fall foliage in the mountains surrounding us, but we have a lot to celebrate. As the summer fades and the cooler months set in, a number of festivals and celebrations take place in Helen and its surrounding areas. Visitors to our luxury vacation have the opportunity to experience the brilliant reds and golds of autumn while also enjoying non-stop entertainment and creating lasting memories. If you’re planning on heading up into the northern Georgia mountains this fall, you’ll want to plan your trip around some of these fun and exciting events.
Oktoberfest
It’s the longest-running and biggest Oktoberfest celebration for miles around! The Alpine village of Helen is known for its Bavarian theme and culture, but the city takes things to a whole ‘nother level during the weeks from the middle of September through the end of October. This year marks the 44th celebration of this beloved German festival, and it all begins on Friday, September 12th. The official kick-off parade and “tapping of the keg” will occur on Saturday, September 13th at noon. Come out to Helen to experience the fun firsthand as you enjoy cold beer, dancing, live polka music, authentic German fare, and sharing a one-of-a-kind experience with new friends and old.
Georgia Mountain Fall Festival
From October 10-18, the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee are the place to be. The Georgia Mountain Fall Festival draws visitors from all over each year. With a spectacular mountain backdrop and beautiful fall colors, the fair boasts booths with hand-crafted arts and crafts, demonstrations, the annual flower show, live performances, and the Georgia Sate Fiddler’s Convention. Attendees age 13+ are charged at $13 admission fee, with 12 and under being free.
Gold Rush Days
Helen and its surrounding areas are known for gold, and Dahlonega is no exception. Having played a central role in America’s first Gold Rush in 1828, the people of Dahlonega invite visitors to drop by each October to celebrate their history and heritage. This year’s celebration will take place during the third weekend of the month, from October 18th through the 19th in the city’s Public Square and Historic District. You and your loved ones will be able to take a look at more than 300 art and craft exhibits, watch a parade, attend a fashion show, participate in gold panning and wheelbarrow contests, experience hog calling, enjoy live music, and more – all while pleasing your tastebuds with some delicious eats.
Georgia Apple Fest
Georgia may be known for its peaches, but our apples are delicious, too. During the 2nd & 3rd weekends of October (11th-12th and 18th-19th), make a trip to the Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds for the Georgia Apple Festival. Purchase unique gifts and items from hundreds of vender booths, and watch demonstrations to learn how to make crafts of your own. For those visiting on the 2nd weekend of October, an antique car show will be held at the Civic Center on the 11th. 3rd week visitors will enjoy the festival’s parade at 10AM on the 18th.
Hillbilly Hog BBQ Throwdown & Fall Leaf Festival
Want to celebrate fall while supporting a good cause? Be sure to attend the Hillbilly Hog BBQ Throwdown. This fun and unique event is held at nearby Cleveland’s Babyland General Hospital on October 24th and 25th, and is one of the major fundraisers for the United Way of White County. The biggest event of this fun festival is a professional barbecue “throwdown” that has been sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society. Gropus duke it out for a cash pool of more than $10K. They may also earn points for the 2014 Southern BBQ Challenge Cup. The stakes are high and the competition is fierce! In addition this this, visitors will be able to visit art, craft, and fair food booths, enjoy live music and entertainment, and embark on self-guided tours through Babyland. Guests with kids can take a play break in “Piglet Playland“. It’s fun for the whole family!
Blue Ridge Fall Arts in the Park
October 11th and October 12th mark the 39th autumn that the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association and Art Center has hosted the Fall Arts in the Park Celebration. From 10am-5pm each day you’ll be able to enjoy a truly unique art experience as you visit hundreds of fine arts, crafts, and food booths. Activities are also available for the little ones throughout the day. Admission for adults is $5 and children are free.
Have you ever attended any of these fun fall festivals in the greater Helen area? Please share any tips or advice to future visitors in the comments section of our blog.
