Autumn is peak tourist season here in Western North Carolina, and it isn’t hard to see why! Stunning fall foliage, crisp temperatures, and fresh-harvest produce make it a great place to be. Each weekend in October features a spectacular celebration of the season. Here is our list of 2023 Fall Festivals in Western North Carolina!
Plott-Toberfest (October 5-8, 2023 – Canton)
This hound-centric celebration is a new event in Canton this year. Celebrating the Plott Hound (the State Dog of North Carolina) and it’s unique heritage, this festival will feature a distinctly German theme. The 4-day event will host excellent Bavarian food, special German-style beers (by BearWaters Brewing), and lots of fun activities and music. Clogging, bluegrass, and heritage demonstrations will showcase the area’s rich history and the inhabitants’ remarkable relationship with the Plott Hound. Check out the schedule of events and purchase tickets here.
Church Street Art & Craft Show (October 14, 2023 – Waynesville)
This event is celebrating 40 years! This festival has grown to fill Main Street and become one of the best juried art shows in the region. With close to 100 vendors, this event showcases pottery, jewelry, woodwork, and more. Each vendor is approved by a jury to ensure that all goods sold are truly handmade. The show this year will feature music by Whitewater Bluegrass and Darren Nicholson Band, clogging teams and more. Visitors can also enjoy all the downtown shops and restaurants as well as numerous festival food vendors. Learn more about this year’s event.
Apple Harvest Festival (October 21, 2023 – Waynesville)
Named one of the 10 Best Fall Harvest Festivals in the Nation! This annual street festival is a delicious way to enjoy the tastes of autumn. Located in charming downtown Waynesville, this event celebrates all-things-apples and the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Stroll the historic Main Street filled with vendors, shops and restaurants and enjoy live music and dance. This is THE big festival event in Waynesville each year – don’t miss it!
Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival (October 28, 2023 – Maggie Valley)
This musical extravaganza is held at the beautiful Maggie Valley Festival Grounds at the peak of leaf season. It brings all the Haywood County Arts Council’s programs and artists together for a one-of-a-kind immersive experience. The festival includes award-winning bluegrass bands, vendors, raffles, artist member demonstrations, artwork, and local drinks and food. Be sure to get your tickets early as it is sure to sell out.
After a day enjoying festivals, there is nothing better than heading back to the Yellow House to enjoy a glass of wine and a delicious homemade treat. Relax in one of the rocking chairs on our veranda or snuggle up in front of your cozy fireplace with a hot mug of tea. Treat yourself to a stay at our romantic Western North Carolina Bed & Breakfast!