Vacation Guide in the Mountains - Holiday Edition 2024 - 17.5
Your Local Guide to the North Georgia Mountains. Let the Vacation Guide in the Mountains help you find Events, Festivals, and Recreational Activities. Find the best local places to Eat, Shop, and lodge with handy Maps to make getting around easy.
Just find the # - for the advertiser’s location on the Local City Map or Centerfold Area Map.
Every Issue we will feature a Community Spotlight and point you in the right direction of Hiking Trails, Waterfalls, or Scenic Road Trips in our area.
View our website at www.MountainLakeGuide.com to find everything Online & Links to find more about our Restaurants, Shopping, Lodging, and Area Recreation.
Natures Beauty & Bavarian Magic, White County has it All!
White County, Georgia is nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, offering a scenic blend of natural beauty, history, and Southern charm. Visitors enjoy traveling along the rolling hills and serene landscapes and it's a must see destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and festive entertainment.
One of the county's most popular attractions is Helen, a Bavarian-themed town located along the Chattahoochee River. Once a struggling lumber town, Helen was transformed into a charming replica of a Bavarian village in the 1960s. Visitors can wander through cobblestone streets, sample authentic German cuisine, or browse the many specialty shops that line the downtown area. Helen is especially known for its annual Oktoberfest, and Christmas Market and events that include a parade and lights throughout the city that attracts visitors from all over the Southeast.
For those who love the great outdoors, Unicoi State Park is a natural gem located just outside of Helen. The park offers a wide range of
activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating on the serene Unicoi Lake. One of the park’s most popular hikes leads to Anna Ruby Falls, a stunning double waterfall that cascades from the Tray Mountain Wilderness. The short trail to the falls is easily accessible and surrounded by lush forest, making it a favorite spot for families and nature lovers alike.
Another natural wonder in White County is Yonah Mountain, a prominent peak that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. For adventurous souls, hiking to the summit of Yonah Mountain is a rewarding experience. The trail is moderately challenging, but the panoramic views at the top are well worth the effort.
History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Hardman Farm Historic Site, located near Helen. This well-preserved 19th-century farm was once owned by James Nichols, a prominent businessman, and later by Dr. Lamartine Hardman, who served as Georgia’s governor. The Italianate mansion and surrounding buildings offer a glimpse into the agricultural history
of the region. A walk along the farm's nature trails reveals more about the area's past and its connection to the Native American peoples who once lived in the region.
The iconic Sautee Nacoochee Indian Mound is a famous landmark of Native American origin, set against a scenic backdrop of the Appalachian foothills. The Sautee Nacoochee Center is a centerpiece for events and housed in a restored schoolhouse to offer a mix of art galleries and theater performances. The adjacent history museum and Folk Pottery Museum showcases the region's rich pottery traditions.
For wine lovers, White County is home to several vineyards that take advantage of the cool mountain air and rich soil to produce excellent wines. Many of the wineries offer tastings and live music in a picturesque setting with views of the nearby mountains. White county also has a few breweries and nearby distilleries.
For a taste of small-town Southern charm, a visit to Cleveland, the county seat of White County,
is a must. Cleveland is known as the birthplace of the Cabbage Patch Kids, and the BabyLand General Hospital. This whimsical attraction is where visitors can see the famous dolls being "born" and even adopt one to take home. The town also features a historic courthouse and several locally owned shops and restaurants that offer a true sense of community.
Nature lovers looking for something off the beaten path should check out the Smithgall Woods State Park, a tranquil escape with miles of hiking trails and excellent trout fishing along Dukes Creek. This conservation area is a sanctuary for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for those who want to experience Georgia’s natural beauty in a more secluded setting.
Whether you’re drawn by the promise of outdoor adventure, historical exploration, lively entertainment or just a relaxing weekend, White County, Georgia, has it all and is an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking a break from the everyday.
Helen / Sautee
Not much can hold a candle to the North East Georgia Mountains around Christmas and the winter holidays. The Sautee Inn Bed and Breakfast can trace her roots back to 1845. The house has been rebuilt and been through several changes since then, but when you walk through the front door you can feel the history all around you. The house changed hands from many families that are still part of the local community today. Before becoming a place for travelers and visitors to rest, each family left their mark on the Sautee Inn to make this home what she is today.
The House was first operated as an Inn sometime after 1870 when it was sold to the Green Family, they ran the property for almost 30 years. From a family home, it became an Inn off the Unicoi Turnpike, then a community gathering point where art classes were taught to local children and even a restaurant. The Sautee Inn has had many different purposes and through those has seen and welcomed many different faces.
The Winter Holiday Season is a time of celebration and the Sautee Winter Arts Festival is a great time to learn more about the home’s history in Sautee Nacoochee Valley.
Your Historic Holiday Getaway
HIDEAWAY
Private
The Stovall Mill Covered Bridge, the smallest covered bridge in Georgia at one span wide and 36.8 feet long with queen-post truss, was built in 1895 by Will Pardue to span the Chickamauga Creek.
An earlier covered bridge at this location, built by Fred Dover, who owned the water turbine powered grist mill, saw mill, shingle mill, and other businesses, was washed away after a storm in the early 1890’s.
In 1917, Fred Stovall, Sr. purchased Dover’s enterprise and the bridge became known as Stovall Bridge. The mills are gone now, washed away in 1964, and only the remains of the dam are evident a few feet from the bridge.
The Stovall Mill Covered Bridge was featured in the 1951 movie, “I’d Climb The Highest
The bridge has a variety of names including the Helen Bridge, Sautee Bridge, Nacoochee Bridge and Chickamauga Bridge.
Only a short drive from the numerous attractions in the area and worth the trip, Stovall Mill Covered Bridge has a parking area, picnic area and historic marker.
F Location f
On the Old Clayton Highway, east of Sautee
F Directions f
From Helen, take State Road 75 south to State Road 17 (turn left).
Turn left at the Old Sautee Store on State Road 255.
The bridge is on the right.
Mountain” starring Rory Calhoun, William Lundigan and Susan Haywood.
16th Annual Helen’s Christmas Market
Nov. 30 & Dec 1 and Dec 7-8
Christmas Markets are a German tradition of local handmade
specialties in a holiday atmosphere.
Annual Dropping of the Edelweiss
New Years Eve (Dec. 31)
Hats & noise makers included with admission. Hors d’oeuvres, champagne toast, and live German band. Family friendly! Doors open at 8:00pm.
Fasching
German Mardi Gras Festival Feb. 15, 2025
Enjoy live German music, dancing and fun! Bar open, food available. 7:00pm - 11:00pm.
36th Annual Helen Trout Tournament
March 29, 2025
Fish the famous Chattahoochee River in Helen, Georgia for your chance to catch tagged fish worth up to $1000! 6:00am - 2:00pm.
Road Trip To
Dahlonega
Dahlonega Georgia is a charming town rich with history of the first major U.S. Gold rush in 1828. There is more to this town than it’s “golden history” with wineries, downtown shops and restaurants. Outdoor venues have beautiful mountain vistas, roaring waterfalls, and hiking trails. The following are just a few of the highlights when visiting Dahlonega.
Dahlonega Gold Museum - The Historic 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse is the home to Dahlonega Gold Museum where visitors can see rare gold coins, artifacts, and history of the area. From huge gold nuggets, to maps of the mines, to a document signed by the 10th President of the United States- the Gold Museum features objects that brilliantly display the charm and the history of Dahlonega.
Crisson Gold Mine – Home to the only working Stamp Mill in Georgia dated to the 1800’s; this has been used at several mines in the Dahlonega area and in other states. Placed on the site in the 1960’s, it has ten stamps with each one weighing 450 lbs. each. The purpose of the Stamp Mill is to crush gold bearing rock into sand so it can be processed. See how this mine has contributed to our State Capital and how you can pan for gold plus gemstones at the mine.
Wineries and Vineyards - Home to several wine tasting rooms and over five wineries, Dahlonega offers a variety of award-winning wines to locals and visitors from all over the world. Its fertile, mineral-rich soil produces versatile lines of European, French hybrids, and American wine grapes. These venues offer tours, tastings, and impressive scenic views. During seasonal times of the year, annual events like the Dahlonega Wine Trail Weekend; are held every August, to tour each venue.
Historic Downtown and Special Events - Dahlonega’s historic public square is the hub of the county’s thriving tourism activity. Lined with brick sidewalks, shops, galleries, and restaurants these charming historical 19th century buildings bring a quaint feeling to any visitor. Entertainment and Festivals are an integral part of Dahlonega’s heritage and it’s not unusual to hear musicians jamming on the square or see artists with their sketch pads taking part in the outdoor beauty.
During the holiday’s, an Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration is held in December with lighting of luminaries, festivities, carolers, and Santa on the Square.
The Holly Theater - built in 1946 has something to offer for entertainment to locals and tourists alike. The relaxed informal atmosphere makes the theater a great place to enjoy a show for music, comedy or theatre performance. Originally used as a movie house and continued through the 80’s, it was restored with community effort in the 1990’s and re-dedicated as The Holly Theatre Community Center, Inc. and placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Amicalola State Park & Lodge is an 829 acre Georgia State Park located just outside of Dahlonega on GA Highway 52. The park’s name is derived from a Cherokee word meaning “tumbling waters”. This park has camping, hiking, picnic shelters, group shelters, trout fishing, geocaching and ranger programs. Twelve miles of hiking trails surround the entryway to the Appalachian Trail. Lodging facilities offer nice accommodations and dining with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Appalachian Trail and Waterfalls - Dahlonega is home to the beginning of the Appalachian Trail, a 2,100 plus mile hiking trail that extends up the eastern United States from Georgia to Maine. The famous trail starts on Springer Mountain which is located just a few miles from the in Amicalola State Park & Lodge. Amicalola Falls is the highest waterfall in the Eastern U.S. at an awe-inspiring 729 feet.
Numerous Activities - The outdoor views in the Chattahoochee National Forest area are spectacular driving in the mountains, relaxing by Chestatee River fishing, kayaking, swimming, or tubing. Additional recreation includes golfing, horseback riding and ATV trails. Spend time in a cabin for the week or stay for a weekend. Other leisure activities such as Jolie Day Spa offer relaxing massages, spa & salon services.
Stop in or call the Dahlonega Visitor’s Bureau at 13 South Park Street. Call 1-800-231-5543 or go to www.dahlonega.org for more information.
Explore North Georgia State Parks
North Georgia State Parks include a variety of recreational activities besides camping and welcome travelers to explore “Our Neck of the Woods”. Enjoy your passion to see a waterfall, go horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, hiking, biking, or just have a picnic. The great State Parks of North Georgia are waiting for you to watch nature at it’s best!
Black Rock Mountain State Park Park (706) 746-2141
Reservations (800) 864-7275
Black Rock Mountain State Park, named for its sheer cliffs of dark-colored biotite gneiss, has the highest altitude of 3,640 feet. Numerous scenic overlooks provide spectacular 80-mile vistas of the Southern Appalachians,
Moccasin Creek State Park
Park (706) 947-3194
Reservations (800) 864-7275
Known as the park “where spring spends the summer,” Moccasin Creek is located on the shores of lovely 2,800-acre Lake Burton. Accessibility offers easy navigation for large RVs, children’s bicycles and wheelchairs. This also includes a fishing pier that sits above a trout-filled creek open only to physically challenged visitors, senior citizens and children.
Tallulah Gorge State Park Park (706) 754-7970
Camping (706) 754-7979 / Picnic (706) 782-4014
One of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern U.S., Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. A suspension bridge sways 80 ft above the rocky bottom, providing spectacular views of the river and waterfalls. Visitors can hike rim trails to several overlooks, or they can obtain a permit to hike down to the gorge floor. The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center highlights the rich history of this Victorian resort town and is open daily.
Fort Mountain State Park
Park (706) 422-1932
Reservations (800) 864-7275
Fort Mountain derives its name from an ancient 855-foot-long rock wall, which stands on the highest point of the mountain. The mysterious wall is thought to have been built by Indians as fortification against other more hostile Indians or for ancient ceremonies. The State Park encompasses over 3,712 acres with a 17-acre lake and swimming beach. Many site are available for tent, trailer, RV, or primitive horse-camping. Trails lead to spectacular views in this pristine high country North Georgia area.
Smithgall Woods State Park
Park (706) 878-3087
Reservations (800) 864-7275
Dukes Creek, one of North Georgia’s premier trout stream, runs through this spectacular mountain property and has become known for it’s catch-andrelease fishing. Eighteen miles of roads and five miles of trails allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams and wildlife. Dukes Creek Falls has a direct trail for cottage guests to view.
Vogel State Park
Park (706) 745-2628
Reservations (800) 864-7275
Vogel State Park is located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Cottages, campsites and primitive backpacking sites provide a range of overnight accommodations. The park’s twenty-acre lake is open to non-motorized boats. During summer, visitors can cool off at the scenic lakeside beach. Hikers can choose from a variety of trails, including the popular four-mile Bear Hair Gap loop, an easy one-mile lake loop, and the challenging thirteenmile Coosa Backcountry Trail.
Amicalola, a Cherokee Indian word meaning “tumbling waters,” is an appropriate name for this 729-ft fall, the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River. Springer Mountain, the well known start to the famed Appalachian Trail, is just 8.5 miles from Amicalola by trail. There are numerous other trails are available for shorter journeys along with cottages and campgrounds. Amicalola lodge is located at the top of the mountain for those who prefer traditional hotel comforts, with a restaurant that provides diners with a spectacular view.
Unicoi State Park, named from the turnpike that was the early means of transportation, is over 1,050 acres of beautiful nature trails. It includes a 53 acre lake for non-motorized boats and a swimming beach. Enjoy flora, fauna and abundant wildlife as you picnic or hike a trail. Campsites and Cottages provide campers with many accommodations, including a 100 Room Lodge and Conference Center with a restaurant.
Nani’s Cuban Restaurant
Your Tampa Bay Connection to Cuban Food
Authentic Cuban Sandwich, Piggy Bowl, Chicky Bowl, Rice & Beans, Empanadas, & much more
Track Rock Gap Archaeological Area is the location of a series of soapstone boulders covered with petroglyphs made by Native Americans over 1,000 years ago. There are hundreds of carvings in a wide range of figures. It’s one of the most significant rock art sites in the Southeastern United States.
Track Rock was a place of power within the sacred landscape of the American Indian Nations where the activities of ancient humans were influenced by spirit beings. It sits at the threshold of the spirit world. Rocks carved with footprints and tracks signified a doorway into the domain of dangerous spirit beings. Depictions of footprints and tracks are physical testimony that spirit beings were there at some time in the past, that they could still be lingering somewhere close by in the present, and that they may return unexpectedly at any time in the future.
As early as 3,600 years ago, Native Americans were removing pieces of the soft but durable soapstone to make bowls which were particularly well suited for cooking as they held and radiated heat without breaking. The picture carvings were made by Native Americans during repeated visits over several hundred years beginning around A.D. 1,000. Most likely, the Cherokee, Catabwa and/or Creek tribes made the carvings. In the 1800’s, early American explorers discovered the Track Rock site and it has fascinated people ever since. Recording, studying and preserving of the site began in earnest in 2009.
The carvings at Track Rock were made in one of two ways. Many of the figures were created by repeated blows in the same spot using hammer stones to create the desired
shape. Some of the figures were created by rubbing a hard stone back and forth to carve the design into the rock. Although soapstone is considered a soft rock, it is still rock and rather hard to carve. It took a lot of time and effort to create these figures that have lasted a thousand years. Some of the shapes that can be seen include: 252 cupules, 22 oval shapes, soapstone bowl extraction scars, deer, horse, bird, squirrel, and bear tracks, cross-in-ring motifs and nested ring design, human figures, human footprints (one with 6 toes!), and one giant’s, footprint, maze-like networks, squares, tridents, zigzags, curved and straight lines, and scalloped edges. Unfortunately, signs of vandalism can be seen throughout the area in the form of square shaped depressions with flat topped pedestals in the middle that are left behind when looters chisel out the petroglyphs. There are also several areas when vandals have carved their initials over the top of the ancient marks forever destroying those petroglyphs.
Track Rock Gap is open to public visitation and no fee is charged. When visiting the site, remember that the intensity of natural lighting can influence how much you are able to see. Bright mid-day sun makes it hard to see most of the figures, and the best times to visit are early or late in the day, when the light is at a low angle. Please be respectful of other visitors and the people who made these carvings. Previous visitors removed pieces of the boulders, thus depriving future visitors of the chance to see what they thought was so special.
For more information about Track Rock, including a printable fact sheet with drawings of the petroglyphs, please visit: fs.usda.gov/goto/conf/trackrock
Band is the highest point in North Georgia. Those who have visited have marveled at the unsurpassed views!
Now you can view Brasstown Bald's Scenic vista in a whole new light - or dark? Coming in September & October, Astronomer, Alex Langoussis will guide you through the night atop Brasstown Bald's 360 degree veiew observation deck, where visitors will engage with wonders of the universe through galactic stories, expertise, and the use of a professional telescope. You could spend the evening being a "Gaurdian of the Galaxy" in learning about the magic of deep space and northern Georgia's incredible nightscape!
Pre- registration is required for Friday night star gazing and there is a cost of $20.00 for 13 & up or $10.00 for ages 6-12. Events are subject to weather conditions,
no pets, and people are encouraged to bring a flashlight and extra layer of clothers due to the cooler tempatures at night from higher elevation
During the day there are several trails that lead up to Brasstown Bald, including Wagon Train Trail, Jack’s Knob Trail, where there is an access path to the Appalachian Trail. Arkaquah Trail follows high ridges to the Track Rock Archaeological area and Brasstown Bald Trail climbs 500 ft. in a half mile.
Visitors can travel to Brasstown by car from State Rd. Hwy. 180 that can be accessed either coming from Helen or Hiawassee on 17/75 or by Blairsville on Hwy. 129.
Once to the parking facility there is a steep, paved trail to the Visitor Information Center at the summit. Although difficult, this is an excellent hike for most people. Frequent stopping places along the path make it achievable for even the most out-of-shape hikers. A shuttle in the visitor parking provides access to the summit in addition to a picnic area for the public.
The Visitors Center provides an unencumbered 360 view of the surrounding mountains and four states of North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, and South Carolina. A museum and exhibit entitled “Man and the Mountain" shows rural mountain life, forestry in North Georgia and the diversifed wildlife in the area.
Visit Aska Road
Aska Road, located in the scenic Blue Ridge area of North Georgia, is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The area is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, offering picturesque views of the Appalachian Mountains, pristine rivers, and lush forests. Aska Road winds through this stunning region, providing access to numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and the Toccoa River, which is a favorite spot for fishing, kayaking, and tubing. The road itself is a scenic drive, drawing visitors who want to take in the natural beauty while traveling deeper into the Blue Ridge Mountains.
One of the key attractions along Aska Road is the Aska Adventure Area, a 17-mile long system of hiking and mountain biking trails that range from easy to more challenging routes. These trails wind through dense forests, open meadows, and along mountain ridges, offering stunning vistas and an immersive experience in nature. Popular trails include the Stanley Gap Trail, known for its moderate difficulty and rewarding views, and the Benton MacKaye Trail, which crosses the area as part of a longer journey through the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the Aska Road area offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.
Morganton’s Cutest Gift Shop
Shop for great vintage & antiques plus home decor. We carry local soaps, honey, jewelry, and many gift items. We have a great holiday gift selection of the world’s softest socks, candles, Myra bags, plus so much more!
Google 5-Star Review from Amy R: “This was the cutest little shop in Blue Ridge. The ladies were very sweet and helpful! There is something here for everyone!” 10777 Lakewood Hwy - just minutes from downtown Blue Ridge Open 7 Days a Week - Google us! 706-900-2211
The Best Birding Products You’ve Been Missing
The Blue Ridge Bird Seed Company has been a cornerstone business of over 21+ years in the downtown business community. We provide our customers with not only the topof-the-line wild birding products, but exceptional knowledge and expertise.
Our trademarked house blend of birdseed, Birdman’s Blend, provides only the highest quality of seed for our customers, being a clean seed product with no fillers and is all grown and processed here in the United States.
We welcome you to come in and see our full range of Wild Birding products: from feeders and houses to books and binoculars, and garden, gifts galore! There is always something for everyone!
We are so thankful for our community, loyal customers, and those who have continued to support us through this past year as we come back and re-open our doors.
Come and check out the new products and old faithful’s as we re-open our doors and prepare to provide you with the best birding products you have been missing!
So Much More than a Bird Seed Store Monthly Seminars & Bird Walks
Cornelia City Park and the nearby Lake Russell Recreation Area are must-see destinations. Cornelia City Park features a picturesque walking trail, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers. A short drive from town, Lake Russell offers scenic hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities within a peaceful forested setting. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning views from Chenocetah Tower, a historic stone tower located atop Chenocetah Mountain. The tower, built in the 1930s, provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, especially beautiful during the fall when the leaves change color. Cornelia’s mix of historic landmarks and natural beauty makes it a delightful stop for those exploring North Georgia.
Warwoman Dell
Warwoman Dell was named to honor a Cherokee Warwoman. Some believe it could have been named for Nancy Hart, the Revolutionary War era woman who may have fought at the Battle of Kettle Creek with her husband and sons. Most likely, though, it was named to honor Nancy Ward, a highly-respected “beloved woman” of the Cherokee Nation who frequented the dell and advised the Cherokee tribal council on war and peace. She was very powerful in the Cherokee clan rule, for she was the last Warwoman in the East. When the Cherokee chiefs voted to go to war, it could only happen if the Warwoman approved.
The 66 steps lead to the abandoned Blue Ridge Railroad. Two moderately easy, familyfriendly trails lead through this beautiful pocket of wilderness showcasing tall trees, dense vegetation, mosses, wildflowers, and three waterfalls. The hike visits the popular Becky Branch Falls, historic areas of Warwoman Dell and several smaller waterfalls on a 1.4 mile loop. While it’s not a long hike, it’s an exceptionally beautiful one. This is a fairly moderate, short trail, with parking and a roadside picnic spot.
Directions: Traveling north US Hwy 441 in downtown Clayton, one block after US 76 comes in from the left, go east on Warwoman Dell Road for 2.8 miles. When the road makes a sharp curve to the left, watch for Warwoman Dell Recreation Area entrance on the right. Follow the gravel road to the first parking lot.
Holiday calendar of Events
Please verify Event Dates in case of Rescheduling
Blairsville
Blue Ridge
November 9
Christmas in the Mountains
Marketplace
Union County Farmers Market
November 23
A Cozy Country ChristmasArts and Crafts Show
North Georgia Technical College
November 23 & 24
Mistletoe Market Craft Show
Union Agriscience Building
November 27
Winery Comedy Night
Paradise Hills Winery Resort and Spa
November 28
Thanksgiving Gobble Wobble 5K
Meeks Park
December 2 – January 1
Tour of Trees
Union County Community Center
December 6, 13, & 20
Friday Night Concert
Downtown Blairsville
December 14
Holiday Open House
Paradise Hills Resort & Spa
December 31
New Years Eve Bash - Pre Party
Paradise Hills Resort & Spa
January 25
Winery Comedy Night
Paradise Hills Winery Resort and Spa
October 16 – December 20
Holiday Show & Sale
The Art Center
November 22 – January 5
Blue Ridge on Ice - Ice Skating at the Blue Ridge Farmer’s Market
Blue Ridge Farmer’s Market
November 23 – December 15
The Gift of the Magi
Blue Ridge Community Theater
November 28
Blue Ridge Turkey Trot5K Marathon
Downtown Blue Ridge City Park
November 29 – December 24
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Christmas Express
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Depot
November 30
Light Up Blue Ridge
Downtown Blue Ridge City Park
December 7
St. Luke’s Annual Christmas
Clarkesville
November 14 – 17 & 11 – 21
Arsenic and Old Lace
Habersham Community Theater
January 30 – 31
Failure: A Love Story
Habersham Community Theater
February 1 – 2 & 6 – 9
Failure: A Love Story
Habersham Community Theater
Clayton
November 29 -30
Christmas in Clayton
Main Street & Rabun County
Festival of Trees
Rabun County Civic Center
December 7
February 6 – 16
Beatle Girls
Blue Ridge Community Theater
February 15
Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off &
Craft Beer Festival
Downtown Blue Ridge Play Park
Brasstown
December 14
Fireside Sale
Keith House Community Room
Rabun County Annual
Christmas Parade
Main Street Downtown Clayton
Cornelia
November 29
Downtown Tree Lighting
Downtown Cornelia
December 5
Habersham Christmas Parade
Downtown Cornelia
December 7
Downtown Christmas
Downtown Cornelia
Dahlonega
November 28
Thanksgiving Dinner
Dahlonega Resort & Vineyard
December 6 – 8, 12 – 15, & 19 – 22
A Christmas Carol
February 14 – 16 & 21 – 23
February 13 – 16
9 to 5 The Musical
November 30
Surrender Hill
Swanson Center for Performing Arts & Communications
February 27
Conservatory of Music
Faculty Showcase Recital Chapel
February 27 – March 27
Ben Steele:
Proof
Historic Holly Theatre
February 28 – March 2
Proof
Historic Holly Theatre
Demorest
November 14
Audrey Davenport
Swanson Center for Performing Arts & Communications
Piedmont Singers Chapel
November 19
The Shape of Things to Come
Mason-Scharfenstein Museum of Art
Dillard
December 6 – 8
A Christmas Carol Dillard Playhouse
Gilmer Arts Playhouse
December 8
The Issacs Christmas
Victory Christian Center
December 13 & 14
Christmas CarolA One Man Show
Gilmer Arts Playhouse
December 15 – February 22
Fiber Art Exhibition
Hawthorne Hall Gallery
Hayesville
November 9
Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues
December 12 – 15
Piedmont String Orchestra Chapel
November 21
Piedmont Wind Ensemble Chapel
December 7 & 6
36th Annual Service of Lessons & Carols Chapel
January 12
Jacqueline Zander-Wall, Mezzo-Soprano and Louise Bass, Piano Chapel
January 16 – February 15
Alice Stone-Collins Art Exhibition
Mason-Scharfenstein Museum of Art
January 26
Jeri-Mae G. Astolfi, Piano Chapel
A Christmas Carol Dillard Playhouse
March 12
River Vista Half Marathon
Dillard
Ellijay
November 2
Gilmer County Heritage Day
Harrison Park
November 15
Acoustic Blends
Gilmer Arts Playhouse
November 16
Joe Gransden’s Big Band Sound
Dine ‘n Dance
Gilmer Arts Playhouse
November 17
Community Chorus
Gilmer Arts Playhouse
Peacock Performing Arts Center
November 15 – 17
WNC Festival of Trees
The Beal Center
November 29
Made in the Mountains
Black Friday Local Market
The Beal Center
December 7
A Little Peace of the Holidays with Karla Harris
Peacock Performing Arts Center
December 14
Clay County Progress
Christmas Parade
Historic Hayesville Square
Helen
November 29
Gobble Wobble
Smithgall Woods
Holiday calendar of Events
Please verify Event Dates in case of Rescheduling
November 30 – December 1
Helen’s Christmas Market
Downtown Helen & Unicoi Hill Park
December 7 & 8
Helen’s Christmas Market
Downtown Helen & Unicoi Hill Park
December 14
Happy Holiday Hike
Smithgall Woods
December 31
New Year’s Eve Celebration
Helen Festhalle
February 15
Fasching (Mardi Gras)
Helen Festhalle
Hiawassee
November 8
Clay Walker
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
November 8 & 9
Rats, Rust & Horse Power
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
November 23
Light Up the Nite 5K
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
November 28
Mountain Country
Christmas in Lights
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
November 30
Towns County Sheriff’s Office
Christmas Parade
Downtown Hiawassee
December 14
Christmas Cantata
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
December 31
New Year Fireworks
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
January 17 – 19
A Ridges Experience: Join Us for a Murder Mystery Weekend
