Annual Rhododendron Festival in Roan Mountain

Each year in June, members of the Roan Mountain Citizens Club host a two-day event to celebrate one of the most gorgeous displays of natural beauty available in the country — the blooming of the Rhododendron Gardens atop Roan Mountain.

The Rhododendron Festival takes place the third weekend of June in Roan Mountain State Park. The Citizens Club first hosted the festival in June 1947 and over the years the event has continued to grow. Originally they held the festival at the top of the mountain at the Rhododendron Gardens but as the event grew it moved to Roan Mountain State Park to accommodate the growing festival.

The two-day event features handmade crafts, food, and a variety of traditional music plus an array of old-time folkway demonstrations of traditional arts and skills. Over 100 arts and crafts vendors. A variety of food available. Visit the world’s largest natural rhododendron gardens atop 6000-ft Roan Mountain. Hike the Appalachian Trail as it runs along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. Learn about our nation’s history as you relax beside cool streams. Camp or stay in a rustic cabin. Swim. Play tennis.

For more information, visit the Roan Mountain Citizens Club website at www.roanmountain.com.

BBQ, Blues and Brews Festival

Hosted by the Elizabethton/Carter County Community Foundation, the event brings in vendors, music and other types of fun for the public at Covered Bridge Park. Area restaurants attend the event to go for the “Best in Show” competition. Select craft beers are also available throughout the event. Proceeds raised from the event go to benefit the local Bonnie Kate Theater.

Naturalist Rallies

During each season, outdoor enthusiasts are invited to make the drive to Roan Mountain State Park for the annual Naturalist Rallies. Organized by the Friends of Roan Mountain, different programs are hosted across the park to encourage the love of outdoors. Different agencies also stop by during the events to offer information and other details about the area. Youth rallies are also offered over the year. Visit friendsofroanmtn.org to learn more about the different events.

Elizabethton River Riders

The Elizabethton River Riders is a premiere summer collegiate team in the Appalachain League. The regular season begins in June. A fun, affordable family experience where you can see the stars of tomorrow, today.

Farmers Markets

Roan Mountain and the City of Elizabethton offers Farmer’s Market during the warmer months as a way to encourage healthier lifestyles and give local farmers a chance to sell their products. Roan Mountain’s event is held at the Roan Mountain Community Park while the Elizabethton event is held in downtown Elizabethton.

Information on both markets are available on social media.