A guide to festivals and annual events in North Carolina.
Smilefest, held each year in Union Grove, boasts one of the biggest bluegrass festivals in the country. The festival has grown to include not only bluegrass but also rock, blues, reggae and a host of other sounds. The event was founded in 1995 in honor of musician Jerry Garcia. The eclectic mix of music and events has drawn locals and visitors alike to celebrate at this family oriented festival.
The Lake Eden Arts Festival or LEAF has delighted visitors for decades. Each year the Black Mountain area celebrates music, folk art and a wide variety of activities sure to please the entire family. Music and dance are the main focal point for this annual event and music from many genres and nationalities are represented. People come from around the country to camp and play as they enjoy the numerous vendors and workshops available at the festival.
North Carolinas mild climate make it an ideal place for gardeners and the Garden Jubilee in Hendersonville demonstrates it in a big way. Over 100 vendors set up throughout the festival, offering visitors a wide variety of gardening paraphernalia and crafts to explore. Expert gardeners share their techniques at the many workshops and demonstrations available at the event. This relaxed affair offers a fun weekend for avid gardeners and nature lovers alike.
The North Carolina State Fair draws nearly a million people each fall to Raleigh to enjoy the shows and foods offered by hundreds of vendors. For ten days each October, visitors enjoy rides and games along the midway as well as agricultural contests and events. Rare and exotic animals make an appearance as well with a live show that includes tigers and other endangered animals.
Charlotte North Carolina celebrates culture and community each fall in the Charlotte Shout festival. For an entire month visitors enjoy music, food and art on a grand scale. With over 150 vendors to choose from food and crafts are plentiful. Events throughout the festival include the Off The Wall MovieFest highlighting international as well as local talent and numerous culinary exhibits. The down-home atmosphere and southern charm makes this festival one of the most popular in North Carolina.
The Biltmore Estate in Asheville draws thousands of visitors each year in the winter to celebrate Christmas at Biltmore Estate. From late November to early January, the estate opens its doors to visitors as they celebrate the Christmas season. George Vanderbilt built the house in the late 1800s and it covers four acres giving credence to the nickname "Americas Largest Home". Today revelers experience the decadent decorations that in past years have included a 35-foot Christmas tree and tens of thousands of decorations and lights. Seasonal music events are scheduled throughout the holiday season as people come from miles around to enjoy Christmas at Biltmore.
Whether you plan a visit to North Carolina in the warm summer months or plan a winter escape to enjoy the holidays, North Carolina has festivals and events for the entire family.
