Are you planning a summer getaway to the picturesque town of Boone, North Carolina? Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and community events. If you're staying at a short-term rental in Boone this summer, you're in for a treat! From music festivals to outdoor markets, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Let's explore some of the top summer events happening in Boone this year:
1. Boone Food & Art Market Kick off your summer adventures by visiting the Boone Food & Art Market, held every Saturday morning from May to October. Located in downtown Boone, this vibrant market features a diverse array of local artisans, farmers, and food vendors. Browse through handmade crafts, sample farm-fresh produce, and savor delicious treats from food trucks. It's the perfect place to shop for unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in Boone's thriving arts and culinary scene.
2. Concerts on the Lawn Experience the magic of live music at the Concerts on the Lawn series, hosted by the Jones House Cultural and Community Center. Throughout the summer, this historic venue showcases talented musicians performing a variety of genres, from bluegrass and folk to jazz and classical. Pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and relax on the lawn as you enjoy an evening of soulful melodies under the stars. Best of all, admission is free, making it an affordable and memorable summer outing for the whole family.
3. Horn in the West Outdoor Drama Step back in time and witness the epic tale of Daniel Boone and the early settlers of the Appalachian region at Horn in the West, Boone's beloved outdoor drama. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this immersive theatrical experience brings history to life with thrilling action, stirring music, and colorful characters. Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable evening of entertainment as you journey through the struggles and triumphs of America's frontier days.
4. High Country Beer Fest Calling all beer enthusiasts! Don't miss the High Country Beer Fest, an annual celebration of craft beer culture in the North Carolina High Country. Held in downtown Boone, this lively event features tastings from over 50 breweries, live music, food trucks, and games. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just looking to discover some new favorites, the High Country Beer Fest promises a day of hoppy fun and camaraderie with fellow beer lovers.
5. Valle Country Fair Experience the charm of a traditional mountain fair at the Valle Country Fair, held each October in nearby Valle Crucis. While technically not in the summer, this event is worth mentioning for those planning an extended stay into the fall. Explore rows of artisanal crafts, indulge in homemade baked goods, and enjoy live music and entertainment. Proceeds from the fair support local community organizations, making it a feel-good event that celebrates the spirit of Appalachia.
Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or simply a relaxing retreat in nature, Boone, NC, offers an abundance of summer events to delight and inspire. So pack your bags, book your short-term rental, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime in this enchanting mountain town.
Title: Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Events in the High Country, North Carolina
Welcome to the High Country, where summer comes alive with a dazzling array of events and activities set against the backdrop of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, music lover, or foodie, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant region of North Carolina. Get ready to mark your calendars and make the most of your summer adventures with our comprehensive guide to the top events happening in the High Country:
1. Grandfather Mountain Highland Games Step into the rich tapestry of Scottish culture at the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, held annually in July at MacRae Meadows near Linville. This premier Scottish gathering features traditional athletic competitions, Highland dancing, bagpipe performances, Celtic music, and authentic Scottish cuisine. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Scotland amid the breathtaking scenery of Grandfather Mountain.
2. Banner Elk's Fourth of July Parade and Celebration Celebrate Independence Day in style at Banner Elk's Fourth of July Parade and Celebration. Join the community in a patriotic procession through downtown Banner Elk, followed by a festive celebration featuring live music, food vendors, children's activities, and a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky. It's a family-friendly event that captures the spirit of small-town America.
3. Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show Saddle up for the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show, a time-honored equestrian tradition dating back over 90 years. Held in July and August at the L. M. Tate Show Grounds, this prestigious horse show attracts riders and spectators from across the country. Marvel at the grace and athleticism of horse and rider as they compete in a variety of disciplines, from hunter and jumper classes to carriage driving events.
4. An Appalachian Summer Festival Experience the cultural richness of the High Country at An Appalachian Summer Festival, an eclectic celebration of music, dance, theater, and visual arts. Hosted by Appalachian State University in Boone, this multi-week festival features world-class performances by renowned artists and ensembles. From classical concerts and Broadway musicals to chamber music recitals and outdoor film screenings, there's no shortage of artistic inspiration to be found.
5. Woolly Worm Festival Get ready for quirky fun at the Woolly Worm Festival in downtown Banner Elk. Held each October, this beloved event celebrates the woolly bear caterpillar, believed by locals to predict the severity of the coming winter. Join in the excitement as hundreds of fuzzy caterpillars race to the finish line in the Woolly Worm Races, and enjoy live music, food vendors, crafts, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.
6. Valle Crucis Fair Experience the charm of a bygone era at the Valle Crucis Fair, a beloved community event held each summer in historic Valle Crucis. Browse through rows of artisanal crafts, sample delicious homemade baked goods, and enjoy live music, storytelling, and demonstrations of traditional mountain skills. Proceeds from the fair support local nonprofit organizations, making it a feel-good event with a meaningful impact on the community.
From cultural festivals and outdoor concerts to equestrian events and quirky celebrations, the High Country of North Carolina offers a summer calendar filled with unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the magic of summertime in the Blue Ridge Mountains.