WNC Travel Guide 2016

Into the Great Wide Open Hike, Bike & Fish

ARTS & CRAFTS | MUSIC | THE CHEROHALA SKYWAY

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Gear up for

ADVENTURE & BEYOND

Since 1883, the Mast General Store has outfitted its neighbors with everything they needed for life.

That tradition continues today with gear for a day in the kitchen, a trek on a trail, or travels around the world. You’ll even find a trip down Memory Lane through a collection of 500 old-fashioned candies.

Asheville • Hendersonville • Waynesville • Valle Crucis • Boone • Winston-Salem, NC Greenville • Columbia, SC • Knoxville, TN • MastGeneralStore.com •

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If you’ve picked up this publication, then, by all accounts, you’re in search of outdoors adventure and countless memorable experiences in our backyard paradise that is Western North Carolina.

As folks proud of our region, we also take a lot of pride in making those who visit feel as welcomed and embraced as possible. Life is about trying new things and meeting new people, and what better place to do so than with Mother Nature’s masterpiece of the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge mountain ranges as the backdrop?

Take to the trail for a day-hike or mountain bike ride, or to the river for some vigorous kayaking or tranquil fly fishing, or take to Main Street for an afternoon of shopping, perhaps a farm-totable dinner or live bluegrass performance. The beauty of Western North Carolina resides in the mere notion that everyday is a blank canvas by which we have all the colors of possibility at our disposal to paint with. Between our array of weekend festivals and seasonal events, the hardest part is simply figuring out what to do. It’s all here, and more.

I’ve always believed the litmus test of the strength of a place resides in how well its community aims at bringing one and all together. Give me a town where the people really care, and are well vested in the community and its potential, and I’ll give you a location that is pulsating with activity, with love and passion, intellectuality and enthusiasm for the unknowns of tomorrow — bring it on, y’all.

INSIDE: Food+Drink

Haywood’s best kept secret: — Bosu’s Wine Shop opens new space . . . . . . . 19 Franklin welcomes first craft brewery . . . . . . . 24

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

SELECTED RESTAURANTS FARMER’S & TAILGATE MARKETS WNC BREWERIES

Outdoors+Recreation

Allure of the Cherohala Skyway . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Rivers of the Smokies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

PARKWAY STOPS MOUNTAIN BIKING GOLF COURSES DISC GOLF

Art+Culture

All in the family at Riverwood Pottery . . . . . . 40 ‘Songwriters in the Round’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Beloved theatre opens new stage . . . . . . . . . . 46

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

PERFORMANCE VENUES THEATRES & PLAYHOUSES MUSEUMS

FYI

Locales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 On the cover: A visitor relaxes on a hammock at The Swag Bed and Breakfast in Haywood County. photo by Steven Yocom, courtesy of Haywood County Tourism Development Authority

Editor/Publisher: Advertising Director:

Advertising:

Greg Boothroyd . . . . . . . . . . greg@smokymountainnews.com Amanda Bradley . . . . . . . . jc-ads@smokymountainnews.com Whitney Burton . . . . . . . whitney@smokymountainnews.com Art Director: Micah McClure . . . . . . . . . . micah@smokymountainnews.com Hylah Birenbaum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hylah@smliv.com

Composition & Design:

— Garret K. Woodward, Arts & Entertainment Editor

Writing/Photography:

Scott McLeod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . info@smokymountainnews.com Garret K. Woodward . . . garret@smokymountainnews.com

Distribution:

Travis Bumgardner . . . . . . travis@smokymountainnews.com Scott Collier . . . . . . . . . . classads@smokymountainnews.com Emily Moss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . emily@smokymountainnews.com Bookkeeping: Amanda Singletary . . smnbooks@smokymountainnews.com If you’d like bulk copies of the WNC Travel Guide to distribute at your business, email your request to classads@smokymountainnews.com or call Distribution Manager Scott Collier at 828.452.4251. Contents ©2016/2017 The Smoky Mountain News. All rights reserved.

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When it comes to beer, WNC beer lovers know where to find the best selection of craft and local brews. Not to mention all your favorite domestic and imported varieties. Ingles has been consistently voted one of the best places to buy beer in WNC. That's something Ingles is really proud of... after all, Asheville is Beer City USA. Ingles... Low Prices...Love the Savings!

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Visit www.ingles-markets.com to find your neighborhood Ingles location!

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Welcome to the neighborhood

Waynesville The social hub of Haywood County, Waynesville is a lively community, one that embodies the culture and heritage of Western North Carolina. The town is filled with art galleries, cafés, farm-to-table and fine dining restaurants, a classic cinema and four craft breweries. Throughout the year, there are numerous evening art strolls and Friday night clogging on Main Street, with tens of thousands flocking to the handful of annual street festivals (Church Street Arts & Crafts Show, Apple Harvest Festival). Adventurers can access the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway just outside of town. Waynesville is also home to Folkmoot USA, the Official North Carolina International Folk Festival, which each summer brings together performance troupes from around the world to share their rhythm and dance styles. www.downtownwaynesville.com

Maggie Valley Grab your partner and enjoy a street dance in downtown Waynesville.

Western North Carolina is a region of small, vibrant downtowns. Each has its own personality and history, so take the time to get out of your car and meander, sit on a bench, and just enjoy your time in these unique places.

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The gateway to the picturesque Cataloochee Valley section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Maggie Valley offers 360-degree mountain views amid a commercial strip of restaurants, hotels and shops. Located at the center of the town, the fairgrounds showcase several weekend festivals, from motorcycle rallies to celebrations of Southern Appalachian culture, up-and-coming country music acts to the rollicking Hillbilly Woodstock. Head over to the Wheels Through Time museum, home to one of the world’s rarest and most extensive collections of vintage motorcycles and antique automobiles. Hovering high above the community is the Cataloochee Ski Area and Cataloochee Guest Ranch, both longtime icons of what it means to truly soak in the essence of fun and family in the mountains. www.maggievalley.org

Canton/Clyde The face of blue-collar hard work and southern grit, Canton is home to the Evergreen Packaging paper mill, a renowned company that is the heartbeat of the town and an economic stronghold for Western North Carolina. Heading into downtown, you’ll find

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Above: The historic Jackson County Courthouse overlooks downtown Sylva. Top right: Lights & Luminaries winter celebration draws after-hours visitors to Dillsboro. Bottom right: Poolside at Old Edwards Inn & Spa in Highlands. Margaret Hester photo • Jackson County TDA photo • Old Edwards Inn photo

local businesses, restaurants and shops.

Southern Porch is a fine-dining establishment on Main Street, where the social circles of Canton converge. Around the corner is the legendary Colonial Theatre, which presents an annual Winter Concert Series featuring hometown group Balsam Range, the 2014 International Bluegrass Music Association’s “Entertainer of the Year.” www.cantonnc.com

Sylva Take a stroll through downtown Sylva and you’ll bear witness to a small mountain town doing big things in Jackson County. From cafes, restaurants and bookstores to breweries, wine shops and artisan galleries, the nightlife options of this community has made it a hot spot for the curious and intrigued “after 5” crowd. Situated on a high hill atop Main Street in the history Jackson County

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Courthouse and library, a societal centerpiece with innumerable weekly programs, shows, demonstrations, readings and children’s activities, all aimed at connecting the dots between neighbors, business owners and visitors alike. Jackson County also is the location of the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, the first of its kind in the country, featuring 15 spots of big rivers, small streams, easy access and backcountry hike-ins. www.mountainlovers.com

Dillsboro The art and craft capital of Western North Carolina, Dillsboro houses numerous galleries, artist studios and collectives. Running through the heart of the town is the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, which originates in Bryson City and makes frequent stops in the artisan community. Also alongside a handful of downtown restaurants is the historic Jar-

rett House, an 1884 bed and breakfast inn within walking distance of the craft businesses. A river park in the center of town offers outdoor adventurers plenty of access for whitewater rafting, canoeing or kayaking. www.visitdillsboro.org

Cashiers The crossroads of U.S. 64 and N.C. 107, Cashiers is a robust community of recreational outfitters, antique shops, fine dining, golf courses and country clubs. In the summer, folks take to the hiking trails, scenic waterfalls and rock climbing locations, all within vicinity of the Village Green, a town park of greenery and art sculptures welcoming any and all at the 64/207 intersection. In the winter, Sapphire Valley Ski Area comes alive as snow and adventure enthusiasts take to the slopes. www.cashiers411.com

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Welcome to the neighborhood Cullowhee Home to Western Carolina University, a Division I school of 10,000 students, Cullowhee is quickly growing not only academically, but also commercially and socially. Whether it’s weekly art exhibit openings, guest lecturers or onstage performances, the campus is filled with end-

less opportunities for the public to immerse themselves in world culture. On the fall weekends, throw down your tailgate and get ready for a football game at the E.J. Whitmire Stadium. In recent years, a handful of restaurants have kicked off the business revitalization of Cullowhee, where live weekend entertainment is now the norm. Want to hit the outdoors? WCU also offers miles of mountain biking and hiking trails bordering the property, as well as ample fly fishing opportunities in the nearby Tuckasegee River. www.wcu.edu

Highlands Halfway between Cashiers and Franklin on U.S. 64 is Highlands. Fine dining, art galleries, antique shops and boutiques line the serene downtown. In the center business corridor are hotels, a brewery, playhouse and movie theatre. Within a short drive, one can head for the hills to tackle a hiking trail or spend an afternoon beside a waterfall or tranquil lake.

In the summer, there is a weekly concert and chamber music series, while during the fall leaf peepers from near and far flock to see the bright colors of the Western North Carolina landscape. www.highlandschamber.org

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Rafting is a big part of the outdoor culture in Western North Carolina, with the Nantahala Outdoor Center serving as a popular spot to hit the rapids. Left: The Western Carolina University Catamounts take the field. NOC photo • WCU photo

Franklin The county seat of Macon, Franklin is your All-American downtown, where neighbors and visitors congregate in a local brewery, café or restaurant, ready to take on the nearby mountain trails or meander the museums and shops lining the charming, welcoming streets. Down the road is the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, where acclaimed national music and theatre acts take the stage throughout the year.

Want some fresh air? Take a walk down the scenic Little Tennessee River Greenway that snakes through downtown. www.franklin-chamber.com

Bryson City Known as last outpost of Western North Carolina before you enter the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bryson City is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. A small town of around 1,400 residents, it’s downtown is consists of galleries, cafes, restaurants and an award-winning microbrewery. Only a few miles from downtown, the Deep Creek en-

trance to the national park has river tubing, horseback riding, hiking and waterfalls. It’s also near the Nantahala Outdoor Center, a world-class whitewater rafting and freestyle kayaking facility, which has the Appalachian Trail running through it. Just down the road from Bryson City, on the border of Swain and Graham counties, is the Tsali Recreation Area on Fontana Lake, regarded as one of the finest mountain biking trail systems in the country. www.greatsmokies.com

Cherokee Home to the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation, the town hosts an array of yearly festivals and events that exemplifies the tradition, art, culture and deep history of the tribe.

Take a step into the Museum of the Cherokee Indian with its extensive exhibits or peruse the Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, a Cherokee collective with detailed displays showcasing its dozens of artisan craft members. Visitors can access the Great Smoky Mountains National Park heading north out of Cherokee on U.S. 441, a main route of travel in Southern Appalachia, which you can also hop onto the majestic Blue Ridge Parkway from. In recent

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years, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort has become one of the largest employers and attractions in Western North Carolina, with its fine dining options, luxury amenities and world-class live entertainment. www.visitcherokeenc.com

activities on Hiwassee Lake. There are annual festivals and fairs, and many outdoor adventures at any of the nearby hiking trails.

Just down the road is Andrews, and up-andcoming small mountain town that’s home to two popular breweries and the Calaboose Cellars winery. www.cherokeecountychamber.com

Robbinsville The entrance to the spectacular Cherohala Skyway, a National Scenic Byway, Robbinsville plays host to a wide-spectrum of outdoor desires. From its bustling downtown, one can easily escape into the lush backwoods of Western North Carolina. Just north of Robbinsville is the town of Lake Santeetlah, a water wonderland of camping, boating and hiking surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest, and only a short drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. www.grahamcountytravel.com

Hayesville/Brasstown

Murphy/Andrews The halfway point between Asheville and Chattanooga on U.S. 64, Murphy is the county seat of Cherokee. Located at the confluence of the Hiwassee and Valley rivers, the town features plenty of opportunities for water sports, with plenty of fishing and boating

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Above: The historic Clay County Courthouse in downtown Hayesville. Below: A scenic view from the Cherohala Skyway. Garret K. Woodward photos

Filled with a plethora of mountain biking, hiking and fishing spots, including boating on the tranquil Lake Chatuge, Hayesville and greater Clay County truly embodies the phrase, “getting away from it all.” Downtown contains museums, antique shops and restaurants. The community holds a handful of yearly celebrations, including the alwayspopular Punkin Chunkin contest every October, where folks use homemade catapults to launch the orange squash high into the Southern Appalachian sky. Of the many points of interest in Brasstown, the centerpiece in the John C. Campbell Folk School, an organization offers innumerable art classes, workshops, demonstrations and live music performances. www.ncmtnchamber.com

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Eats+Drinks

RESTAURANTS Andrews • Burger Basket American – 828.321.3785 • Hoppy Trout Brewing Company American – 828.835.2111 • Mi Pueblito Mexican – 828.321.2220 • Monte Alban Mexican – 828.321.1802 • Potter’s House American – 828.321.1786

Bryson City

Canyon Kitchen at Lonesome Valley.

Garret K. Woodward photo

Savoring the Smokies

After a full day of hiking the mountains, biking the backcountry roads, cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway or swimming in a pristine lake, one can sure built up quite the appetite soaking in all that Western North Carolina has to offer. To remedy that, our region is home to some of the finest restaurants in the Southeast. Whether specializing in local farm-to-table items, southern “cosmopolitan country” dishes or intricate ethnic cuisines, any flavor or style can be found, each able to tantalize and capture any palate.

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• Anthony’s Italian/American – 828.488.8898 • Bar-B-Que Wagon Southern/American – 828.488.9521 • The Bryson City Cork & Bean Southern/Gourmet – 828.488.1934 • CJ’s Grille American/Southern – 828.488.9880 • Derailed Bar & Lounge American – 828.488.8898 • Filling Station Deli American/Southern – 828.488.1919 • Fryemont Inn Southern/Steak/Seafood – 800.845.4879 • Great Smoky Mountains Winery American/Southern – 828.788.1346 • Guayabitos Mexican – 828.488.1336 • Hemlock Inn Southern/Gourmet – 828.488.2885 • Jimmy Mac’s American/Southern – 828.488.4700 • La Taqueria Mexican – 828.488.9162 • Naber’s Drive-In American/Southern – 828.488.2877 • Nate & Nick’s Pizza American/Southern – 828.588.0500 • Pasqualino’s Italian – 828.488.9555 • Village Bistro Southern/American – 828.488.9000 • Water’s Edge Seafood/Southern – 828.488.7977

Canton • Canelos Mexican – 828.648.0303 • China King Buffet Chinese/Asian – 828.235.8815

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• El Chapala Mexican – 828.235.9193 • El Pobre Mexican – 828.235.9311 • Southern Porch Kitchen & Drink Southern/Farm-to-Table – 828.492.8006

Cashiers • Carolina Smokehouse Southern Barbecue – 828.743.3200 • Chez Dupont & The Stone Soup Café Southern/Farm-to-Table – 828.743.1960 • Chile Loco Mexican – 828.743.1160 • Cornucopia Restaurant Southern/American – 828.743.3750 • El Manzanillo Mexican – 828.743.5522 • High Hampton Inn & Country Club Steak/Seafood/Southern – 828.743.2411 • Orchard Southern/American – 828.743.7614 • Randevu Southern – 828.743.0190 • Slab Town Pizza American – 828.743.0020 • Ugly Dog Pub American/Southern – 828.743.3000 • Winslow’s Hideaway Steak/Seafood – 828.743.2226

Cherokee • Brio Tuscan Grille (Harrah’s) Italian – 828.497.7777 • Granny’s Kitchen Southern/American – 828.497.5010 • Lee Garden Chinese – 828.497.4388 • Little Princess Southern/American – 828.497.9000 Frog’s Leap Public House in Waynesville. FLPH photo

• New Happy Garden Chinese – 828.497.4310 • Noodle Bar (Harrah’s) Asian – 828.497.7777 • Paul’s Diner American/Southern – 828.497.9012 • Rancho Viejo Mexican – 828.497.0343 • Ruth’s Chris Streak House (Harrah’s) Steak/Seafood – 828.497.7777 • Sassy Sunflowers Bakery & Café American/Southern – 828.497.2539 • Selu Garden Café (Harrah’s) American/Southern – 828.497.7777 • Wise Guys Pizza American – 828.497.2838

Cullowhee • Cullowings American/Southern – 828.293.5800 • Tuck’s Tap & Grille American/Southern – 828.293.4688

Dillsboro • Coach’s Bistro American/Southern – 828.586.0265 • Country Traditions American/Southern – 828.586.1600 • Evolution Wine Kitchen American/Southern – 828.631.0156 • Haywood Smokehouse Barbecue/Southern – 828.586.9556 • Jarrett House Southern – 828.586.0265 • Kostas Greek/Italian – 828.631.0777 • Well House American/Southern – 828.586.8588

Franklin • Boiler Room Steak/Southern – 828.349.5555 • Boone Thai Thai – 828.524.1111 • The Bowery Southern – 828.369.3663 • Caffé Rel French – 828.369.9446 • Chris & Charlie’s Italian/American – 828.349.0900 • City Restaurant American – 828.524.4948 • El Charro Mexican – 828.369.9002 • Gazebo Creekside Café American/Southern – 828.524.8783 • Kountry Kitchen American – 828.524.6209 • Las Barricas Mexican – 828.349.4484 • Lucio’s Italian – 828.369.6670 • Mi Casa Mexican – 828.369.1580 • Motor Company Grill American/Southern – 828.524.0099 • Mulligan’s Bar & Grill American/Southern – 828.349.3183 • Papa’s Pizza of Franklin American – 828.369.9999 • Post & Beam at Mill Creek Southern/American – 828.349.0402 • Sakura Japanese – 828.349.8917 • Thai Paradise Thai – 828.349.0973 • Tienda Mexicana La Guadalupana Mexican – 828.349.0108 • Vito’s Pizza Italian/American – 828.369.9890 • Willy’s Ribs & BBQ Southern/American – 828.524.0414

Hayesville • Alazan Mexican – 828.389.2727 • Angelo’s Downtown Pizza Italian/American – 828.389.2500 • Chevelle’s 69 American – 828.389.6069 • The Copper Door Steak/Seafood/Southern – 828.237.4030 • Mika’s Pizza American – 828.389.6366 • Rib Country BBQ Barbecue/Southern – 828.389.9597

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Eats+Drinks Highlands • Asia House Asian – 828.787.1680 • Bistro On Main American – 828.526.2590 • Brick Oven Pizza American – 828.526.4121 • Cyprus International – 828.526.4429 • El Azteca South Pacific/Mexican – 828.526.2244 • Highlands Smokehouse Southern Barbecue – 828.526.1900 • Lakeside Seafood/Southern – 828.526.9419 Old Edwards Inn in Highlands is home to Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden.

Donated photo

• Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden Southern/Farm-to-Table – 828.526.5477 • Main Street Inn Bistro American – 828.526.2590 • Meritage Bistro American – 828.526.1019 • On the Verandah Gourmet Fusion – 828.526.2338 • Pescados Mexican – 828.526.9313 • Pizza Place of Highlands American – 828.526.5660 • Ristorante Paoletti Northern Italian – 828.526.4906 • Ruka’s Table Southern/Contemporary – 828.526.3636 • Rustico at the Log Cabin Northern Italian – 828.526.0999 • Ugly Dog Pub American/Southern – 828.526.8364

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• Wild Thyme Gourmet Southern – 828.526.4035 • Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro New Orleans/Steak/Seafood 828.526.3807

Lake Toxaway • Brown Trout Mountain Grille American/Southern – 828.877.3474

Maggie Valley • Andolini’s Italian/American – 828.944.0770 • Brew Cue & BBQ Southern/American – 828.944.0259 • Butts On The Creek Barbecue/Southern – 828.926.7885 • Cataloochee Guest Ranch Southern/American – 800.868.1401 • Country Vineyard Café Italian/American – 828.926.6557 • Frankie’s Italian Trattoria Italian – 828.926.6216 • Garrett’s Steakhouse – 828.926.1954 • Guayabitos Mexican – 828.926.7777 • J. Arthur’s Steakhouse/American – 828.926.1817 • Moonshine Grille Southern/American – 828.926.7440 • Pin High Bar & Grille American/Southern – 828.926.4848 • Rendezvous American/Southern – 828.926.2325 • Salty Dog’s Seafood/American – 828.926.9105 • Snappy’s Italian/American – 828.926.6126 • Taqueria Guanajuato Mexican – 828.926.3483

Murphy • Chevelle’s American – 828.835.7001 • Daily Grind & Wine American/Coffeehouse – 828.835.7322 • Downtown Bakery American – 828.835.8986 • Downtown Pizza Company American – 828.837.0500 • Doyle’s Cedar Hill American – 828.837.3400

RESTAURANTS • El Manzanio Mexican – 828.837.9624 • Mama Mia’s Italian – 828.557.5401 • Monte Alban Mexican – 828.835.9767 • Murphy’s Chophouse Southern/Steak/Gourmet – 828.835.3287 • No Name Deli American/Italian – 828.837.9138 • Rib Country BBQ Barbecue/Southern – 828.837.4444 • ShoeBooties Café Southern/American – 828.837.4589

Robbinsville • Carolina Kitchen Southern/American – 828.479.1500 • Hub Of WNC Barbecue/Southern – 828.479.0478 • Lynn’s Place American/Southern – 828.479.9777 • Pacefeco Mexican – 828.479.8448

Sapphire • Canyon Kitchen at Lonesome Valley Southern/Farm-to-Table 828.743.7697 • Cork & Barrel Lounge American/Southern – 828.743.7477 • Gamekeeper’s Tavern American – 828.743.4263 • Mica’s American – 828.743.5740 • Osteria Del Monte Mexican – 828.883.2551 • Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company American – 828.743.0220 • Table 64 American/Southern – 828.743.4135

Sylva • B & Al’s Grill American – 828.586.5686 • Balsam Mountain Inn Southern/Farm-to-Table – 828.456.9498 • Bogart’s Steakhouse – 828.586.6532

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for All Generations Special Occasions and everyday fashions.

The Women’s Boutique Where the Focus is You! 121 N MAIN ST. • WAYNESVILLE, NC (828) 452-3611 318 N MAIN ST. • HENDERSONVILLE, NC (828) 595-9753 WNCTravel

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Eats+Drinks Top of the Mornin’ — Breakfast spots and cafés in the Smokies Bryson City • Everett Street Diner – 828.488.0123 • Iron Skillet – 828.488.4766 • Mountain Perks Espresso Bar & Café – 828.488.9561

Canton • • • •

Black Bear Café – 828.648.1003 Breaking Bread Café – 828.648.3838 Jukebox Junction – 828.648.4546 Papertown Grill – 828.648.1455

Franklin • • • • •

City Restaurant – 828.524.4948 Hungry Bear – 828.369.2900 Ms Lois’ – 828.369.8628 Normandie – 828.524.3118 Rathskeller Coffee Haus – 828.369.6796 • Stamey’s Café – 828.524.8198 • Sunset – 828.524.4842

Highlands • Buck’s Coffee Café – 828.526.0020 • Mountain Fresh Grocery – 828.526.2400

Maggie Valley • • • •

Country Vittles – 828.926.1820 Holiday Diner – 828.926.0820 Joey’s Pancake House – 828.926.0212 Maggie Valley Restaurant – 828.926.0425 • Mountaineer – 828.926.1730

Murphy • Blue Mountain Coffee & Grill – 828.837.1362

Robbinsville Cashiers • Buck’s Coffee Café – 828.743.9997 • Zookeeper Café – 828.743.7711

Cherokee • Chestnut Tree – 828.497.9181 • Frontier Pancake House – 828.497.4718 • Peter’s Pancakes & Waffles – 828.497.5116

Clyde • Coffee Cup Café – 828.627.8905 • Sherrill’s Pioneer – 828.627.9880

Cullowhee • Cullowhee Café – 828.293.3334

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• Stecoah Diner – 828.479.8430

Sylva • City Lights Café – 828.587.2233 • Coffee Shop – 828.586.2013 • Signature Brew Coffee Company – 828.587.6300

Waynesville • • • • • • •

Buttered Biscuit – 828.246.6446 City Bakery – 828.452.3881 Clyde’s – 828.456.9135 Haywood 209 Café – 828.627.3331 J Creek Café – 828.926.7877 Kornerstone Kafé – 828.550.2265 Panacea Coffee House Café & Roastery – 828.452.6200 • Waynesville Breakfast House – 828.246.9881

RESTAURANTS • City Lights Café American/Southern – 828.587.2233 • Colima Mexican – 828.586.9999 • Cosmic Carryout at Innovation Brewing American/Farm-to-Table – 828.586.9678 • Creekside Oyster House & Grill Seafood/Southern – 828.586.1985 • Cut Cocktail Lounge Gastropub – 828.631.4795 • El Patron Mexican – 828.586.8805 • Guadalupe Café Caribbean Fusion – 828.586.9877 • Half Past American/Southern – 828.586.1212 • Jade Dragon Chinese – 828.586.6688 • Lulu’s On Main Southern/Farm-to-Table – 828.586.8989 • Mad Batter Food & Film American/Southern – 828.586.3555 • No Name Sports Pub American/Southern – 828.586.2750 • O’Malley’s Sports Bar & Grill American/Southern – 828.631.0554 • Peking Gourmet II Chinese – 828.586.9082 • Robbie’s Char-Burger American – 828.586.2723 • Sazon Mexican – 828.226.1950 • Sneak E Squirrel Brewing American – 828.586.6440 • Soul Infusion Tea House & Bistro Southern Fusion/American – 828.586.1717 • South of Philly American – 828.586.0550 • Speedy’s Pizza American – 828.586.3800

Waynesville • Ammon’s Drive-In & Dairy Bar American/Southern – 828.926.0734 • Angelo’s Family Pizza American/Southern – 828.452.1886 • Apple Creek Café American/Southern – 828.456.9888 • Blossom on Main Thai Fusion – 828.454.5400 • Bocelli’s Italian Eatery Italian – 828.456.4900 • Bogart’s Steakhouse – 828.452.1313 • Boojum Brewing American/Southern – 828.944.0888 • Bosu’s Wine Shop Farm-to-Table – 828.452.0120

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Your Perfect Mountain Home Is Out There.

Let us help you ďŹ nd it.

Whether you are making a permanent move, looking for a long term rental, or just a weekend vacation; we've been in the business of helping people make their mountain dreams come true since 1970.

WAYNESVILLE OFFICE 147 Walnut St Waynesville, NC 28786 828.456.7376

ASHEVILLE OFFICE 111 Central Ave Asheville, NC 28801 828.258.1284

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sunburstrealtyrentals.com

Real Estate Sales

Long-term and Vacation Rentals

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Eats+Drinks

Sylva

www.mountainlovers.com

RESTAURANTS • Bourbon Barrel Beef & Ale Southern/American – 828.452.9191 • Captain’s Bay Seafood/Steakhouse – 828.456.6761 • Chef’s Table Italian/Farm-to-Table – 828.452.6210 • Church Street Depot American – 828.246.6505 • Classic Wineseller Italian/French/Southern – 828.452.6000 • Cork & Cleaver at The Waynesville Inn Steak/Seafood – 828.456.3551 • El Pobre Mexican – 828.456.9557 • Frog’s Leap Public House Farm-to-Table/Southern – 828.456.1930 • Haywood Smokehouse Barbecue/Southern – 828.456.7275 • Kanini’s Southern/Farm-to-Table – 828.452.5187 • Las Palmas Mexican – 828.456.4234 • Los Amigos Mexican – 828.456.7870 • Mad Anthony’s Bottle Shop & Beer Garden American/Southern – 828.246.9249 • Maggie’s Gallery Seafood – 828.456.8945 • New Happy Garden Asian – 828.456.6988 • Pasquale’s Italian/Mediterranean – 828.454.5002 • Patio Bistro Southern/American – 828.454.0070 • Pub 319 American/Southern – 828.456.3040 • Rob’s Hot Dog Shack American – 828.456.8945 • Secret Wine Company Farm-to-Table – 828.452.0120 • Smoky Mountain Sub Shop American – 828.456.3400 • Swag Farm-to-Table/Southern – 828.926.0430 • Sweet Onion Southern/Farm-to-Table – 828.456.5559 • Tipping Point Brewing American/Southern – 828.246.9230 • Water’n Hole Bar & Grill American/Southern – 828.456.4750 • Waynesville Pizza Company American/Italian – 828.246.0927

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YOURFULLSERVICE BIKE SHOP FROMKIDS TO CUSTOM! With over 30 years of service, you can trust us with all your cycling needs.

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Enjoy Locally-Made Soft Pretzels & Chocolates with Your Pints & Flights Picnics & Take-Out Food Welcome!

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Dillsboro

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Eats+Drinks Waynesville’s best kept secret: Bosu’s Wine Shop opens new space ith the quiet evening sun fading behind the Great Smoky Mountains on a late spring evening, a single building glowed bright at the bottom of Miller Street in downtown Waynesville.

The usual joyous commotion at Bosu’s Wine Shop wasn’t coming from their store.

Rather, it was from a large wooden door around the side of the building and down the alleyway. Welcome to The Secret Wine Company, where curiosity and culinary delights intersect.

“It’s that feeling of knowing a secret, that’s not exactly a secret, but the kind of secret you want to tell everyone without having to tell everyone,” said Maleah Pusz, co-owner of Bosu’s.

Alongside her business partner Tony Gaddis, Pusz has taken the 23-year-old beloved shop (which they purchased in 2014) and added another layer of community spirit and collective fun, all with wine glass in-hand.

“When Tony and I starting thinking about our vision for Bosu’s, we wanted to have at that place, kind of like when you drive up to someone’s house, lights are blazing, and people have arrived for a dinner party,” Pusz said. “And somehow this group of people showed up know that this is the place, this is where to go — these are my people.”

With the cozy Bosu’s storefront as the original foundation of The Secret Wine Company (the business umbrella which the shop sits under), Pusz and Gaddis overtook the empty building next door and began extensive renovations in recent months. A beautiful floor plan emerged, one which includes a 39-seat event space (the main celebratory room and den library), professional kitchen and wine bar.

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The newly-opened Secret Wine Company, which is part of Bosu’s Wine Shop in Waynesville.

Left: Chef Jackie Blevins (left) and Maleah Pusz. Donated photo • Garret K. Woodward photo

“At this point, it is an event space, with ca- whereas to have this latest project complesual dining to happen down the line,” Pusz ment the other businesses, rather than take said. “By this summer, we will have a limited away from them. small plate menu, a nice place to come for a “Waynesville’s culinary scene is exploding, first course, a glass of wine or craft beer beand we’re really fortunate to have such great fore going out.” working relationships with a lot of the other And in terms of Bosu’s wine dinners and restaurants and businesses,” she said. “The specialty events, Bosu’s teamed up with culinary pie in Waynesville is getting bigger, Jackie and Frank Blevins, who own Perfectly not smaller. That, and Waynesville has never Seasoned, a longtime been a ‘I want my slice catering service in Wayalone’ kind of place.”

“Waynesville’s culinary nesville. The partnership At their recent Gerscene is exploding, and allowed Chef Jackie to man/Austrian wine dinwe’re really fortunate to ner, which served as a bring her professional kitchen into Bosu’s and have such great working kind of “soft opening” for have an entire space to The Secret Wine Comrelationships with a lot create her culinary pany, the packed house of the other restaurants was abuzz, with glasses magic, one that also aland businesses,” lows Bosu’s the platform held high in celebration — Maleah Pusz to flourish in their own of not only the evening ideas and endeavors. and those in attendance, “I hope to build the wine bar business up but also another night of pure fun and paswith the help of my food,” Chef Jackie said. sion in Western North Carolina.

“It’s about using non-processed foods, all “I’m not ashamed to admit I was tearynatural, and as local as possible. We also eyed a few times tonight,” Pusz said. “Begrow a lot of our own herbs and vegetables, cause the people were a beautiful blend of too. It’s about creativity and seeing people folks that had been here since day one, and happy — instant gratification is the nature of also people finally having an opportunity to the job.” come here for the first time. For us, it’s havAnd with an ever-evolving culinary scene ing that ability to bring people together in Waynesville and greater Haywood and share in an experience — it’s a dream County, Pusz looks at the big picture, come true.”

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Eats+Drinks Farmer’s & Tailgate Markets The foundation of culture in Western North Carolina lies in a keen emphasis on things locally made and grown. Whether it’s the porch sounds of mountain music or stitching together one’s heritage with an elaborate quilt, quality and one-of-a-kind are attributes to the many products offered in this region. And at the heart of these traditions is the fresh produce raised and harvested from the rich soil of Southern Appalachia.

There is a renewed vigor in the local farmer’s markets as new growers working smaller farms have become the norm. From delicious fruits and crisp vegetables, to sweet honey and fresh trout, there are innumerable unique items locals and visitors alike can purchase. Throughout the week, dozens of vendors in several towns gather to showcase and sell their goods.

With organic products becoming more popular, these markets provide the community with the perfect avenue for healthy options.

Bryson City

Cullowhee

• Swain County Farmer’s Market Organic produce, plants, trout, honey, jams, quail and rabbit as well as an array of local crafts. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays (May 6-Oct. 28), and also from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays (June 14-Aug. 16). The Barn on Island Street in downtown.

828.488.3848 or www.greatsmokies.com.

• The ‘Whee Farmer’s Market Locally grown vegetables, eggs, and more. 4 p.m. until dusk Tuesdays through October. Corner of North Country Club Drive and Stadium View Drive. 828.476.0334 or www.facebook.com/cullowheefarmersmarket.

Cashiers • Cashiers Tailgate Market From 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Wednesdays through October at the United Community Bank on N.C. 107 South. 828.226.9988 or blueridgefarmers@gmail.com.

Cherokee • Cherokee Farmer’s Tailgate Market Fresh local, organic and heirloom produce. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays through October. Acquoni Road. 828.554.6931.

• Cherokee Farm Stand Locally-grown agricultural produce. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursdays through mid-October. 876 Acquoni Road at the Cherokee Indian Hospital.

828.359.6935.

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urdays (April 2-Oct.29). Railroad Avenue at the Municipal Parking Lot near Bridge Park in downtown. The winter market is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays (November through March) across the bridge at the Community Table in downtown. 828.399.0290 (summer) or 828.393.5236 (winter) or www.jacksoncountyfarmersmarket.org.

Franklin

Waynesville

• Cowee Farmer’s Market Local produce, plants, herbs, honey, crafts, and more. 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays (May 10-Oct. 25). 51 Cowee School Drive.

828.524.8369 or www.coweefarmersmarket.com.

• Franklin Farmer’s Tailgate Market Variety of only homegrown products such as cheese, plants, eggs, trout, honey and more. 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays (April 2-Nov. 5). 200 East Palmer Street. 828.349.2049 or www.facebook.com/franklinncfarmersmarket.

• Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market Fresh, local produce, fresh seafood, baked goods, goat cheese, herbal products, meat, eggs, plants, flowers, preserves, honey and heritage crafts.

Live music. 8 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays (April 16-Nov. 26), with a winter market through mid-December. 250 Pigeon Street in the parking lot of the HART Theatre. www.waynesvillefarmersmarket.com.

• Original Waynesville Tailgate Market Fruits, vegetables, black walnuts, organic food and other homemade products. 8 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays (May 14-Oct. 29). 171 Legion Drive at the American Legion in Waynesville behind Bogart’s restaurant.

828.456.1830.

Sylva • Jackson County Farmer’s Market Plants, seeds, honey, breads, sweets and locally made crafts, local meats. 9 a.m. to noon on Sat-

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Stay a day, or a lifetime

Spend the day playing our uniquely diverse course and top it off with dinner at the Pin High Bar & Grille where we set the standard for southern hospitality!

Andrews • Andrews Farmer’s Market Live music and community produce. 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays (June 4-Oct. 22). First Street at Hall Memorial Park in Andrews. 828.321.5960.

Brasstown

1819 Country Club Drive • Maggie Valley, NC 828.926.1616

• Brasstown Farmer’s Market Local produce, organic chicken, eggs. Open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays (April 13-Oct. 26) on Old Highway 64. 828.360.2498.

Hayesville • Hayesville Evening Market High quality, local produce and farm products. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays (May 1-Sept. 1).

828.389.8931 or www.southernappalachianfamilyfarms.com.

• Mountain Valley Farmer’s Market Local farmers and growers, homemade baked goods and products. 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays (May 7-Oct. 29). Old Courthouse Square.

863.287.4482.

MOUNTAIN REALTY

Murphy • Cedar Valley Farmer’s Market Fresh produce, meats and handmade products. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays (April 2-Oct. 29) in the old L&N Depot in downtown. www.doylescedarhill.com/farmers-market.

Robbinsville • Graham County Farmer’s Market Local farmers, growers and harvesters. 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays (July 9-Oct. 1).

828.479.8788.

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2016

Dan Womack OWNER/BROKER CELL:

828.243.1126

OFFICE: 828.452.9393 21

Bryson City

www.greatsmokies.com

SLEEP INN BRYSON CITY

McClanahans

1/2 Mile to Bryson City Railroad Depot Guests enjoy free hot breakfast buffet, brand new 32” flat panel LCD televisions, free wireless internet, seasonal outdoor swimming pool and access to on-site coin laundry facilities.

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500 VETERANS BLVD. BRYSON CITY, NC TOLL FREE: 866-939-0998 LOCAL: 828-488-0326

115 Everett St. Bryson City, NC 828.488.8010

We also offer packages to ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, or to go rafting at Nantahala Outdoor Center (please book in advance).

We also offer the train and rafting tickets individually.

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ONE STOP SHOP

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in the

Vacation Getaways

828.488.7900

MicrotelBrysonCity.com 22

Bryson City, NC

828.488.6511

Great Smoky Mountains in Bryson City, NC 115 Everett St., Bryson City, NC 28713 (828) 488-8010

AloftintheSmokies.com www.WNCTravel.com

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Eats+Drinks If you build it, they will come (and drink); Franklin welcomes first craft brewery Cruising through downtown Franklin, one begins to wonder where exactly is the Lazy Hiker Brewing Company.

You’ve been told it’s on Main Street, but where? And just as you begin to debate whether to turn around and try again, your vehicle hits the crest of a steep downhill. ver the rise appears a building illuminated, like a lighthouse on the high seas of a vast and unknown Southern Appalachian night. It’s a building of people and purpose. You’re here. You’ve made it

O

to Franklin’s first craft brewery.

What was once the old town hall, the structure has been transformed into a state-of-the-art production facility and taproom. The brewery is a frenzied space, where a warm ambiance of strangers and friends alike is coupled with a curiosity and passion that is solely unique to the craft beer industry.

“It’s something pretty special that now you can taste a fresh beer made in Franklin, and be confident that what they’re tasting is good,” said co-owner Ken Murphy.

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The idea for Lazy Hiker started brewing in the minds of Murphy, Tommy Jenkins and Lenny Jordan. As the three main owners behind the project, they were looking for something that not only could be a successful business, but an entity that could also be a missing piece to the ever-growing puzzle of Franklin’s economic and cultural future.

“We felt like we needed a double bottom line,” Jordan said. “We needed the brewery to be viable, and also be able to do something for the community, to add to what makes this place special.”

Thus, the trio put their vision into motion. They settled on the idea of renovating the old town hall, which opened in May 2015. After a nationwide search, Brewmaster Noah McIntee was hired. Formerly the director of brewing operations at Pearl Street Grill & Brewery and Pan American Grill & Brewery in Buffalo, New York, McIntee was eager to head his own project, with the Lazy Hiker the vehicle to do so.

“It has been the culmination of a lot of work at light speed to get the point of opening day,” McIntee said. “Asheville has an incredible scene, and it says something to come into this region with a well-known craft beer scene already — good craft beer leads to more good craft beer.”

The brewery runs on a two vessel 15-barrel system, one that includes three 30-barrel (and one 15-barrel) fermenters. With Asheville, a worldwide recognized craft beer mecca, an hour and a half down the road, McIntee likes living, thriving and creating in the small mountain town.

“Franklin is far enough away to where we

Innovation Brewing

WNC Breweries Andrews • Andrews Brewing 828.321.2006 • www.andrewsbrewing.com • Hoppy Trout Brewing 828.835.2111 • www.hoppytroutbrewing.com

Bryson City • Nantahala Brewing 828.488.2337 • www.nantahalabrewing.com

Franklin • Lazy Hiker Brewing 828.342.5133 • www.lazyhikerbrewing.com

Highlands • Satulah Mountain Brewing 828.482.9794 • www.satulahmountainbrewing.com

Sapphire • Sapphire Valley Brewing 828.743.0220 • www.sapphirebrewingcompany.com

Sylva • Heinzelmannchen Brewery 828.631.4466 • www.yourgnometownbrewery.com • Innovation Brewing 828.586.9678 • www.innovation-brewing.com • Sneak E Squirrel Brewing 828.586.6440 • www.sneakesquirrel.com

Waynesville • BearWaters Brewing 828.246.0602 • www.bwbrewing.com • Boojum Brewing 828.944.0888 • www.boojumbrewing.com • Frog Level Brewing 828.454.5664 • www.froglevelbrewing.com • Tipping Point Brewing 828.246.9230 • www.tippingpointtavern.com

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can do our own thing, and yet, we’re close enough to still be part of what’s going on in Asheville,” he said. “Craft beer is a production industry where you can see the immediate results, and that’s something I like, where I can make it and I can walk upstairs and see people drinking it.”

In their first seven months of operation, Lazy Hiker became a mainstay in six Western North Carolina counties (Macon, Swain, Jackson, Clay, Cherokee and Graham). That number will increase to 38 counties as they recently joined forces with Skyland Distributing in Asheville.

Though just in the midst of celebrating their first year, Lazy Hiker points to coming out of the gate with a quality product, and also immersing themselves within the region, as the keys to success, traits that ultimately led to Skyland knocking on their door.

“We’re one of the fastest growing breweries, if not the fastest, in Western North Carolina,” McIntee said. “And I think a lot of that comes to just being out there in the communities, shaking hands, talking to people, and providing them with great craft beer.”

At the end of 2015, Lazy Hiker had brewed

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2016

over 500 barrels of beer, with projections to double that come their one-year anniversary in May 2016. And with an expanding market, McIntee is certain those expectations and products will only soar once orders roll in from around their new jurisdiction.

“In a great environment like Western North Carolina where craft is received and loved, being in this environment is one thing and being able to sell in this market is another thing,” he said. “I think we went into the market with a fantastic product, and I think we’ve seen success because of that.”

Strolling the floor of the taproom, there’s a buzz in the air. Faces from down the street, around the county and across the region are congregating. They hoist their pints up and in appreciation of this paradise we call Western North Carolina.

“I enjoy seeing the people at our community table,” Jordan said. “People who might not know each other, but they’re sitting together, enjoying craft beer together, talking about the products, enjoying their company.

It’s what we wanted from the start, and now it’s a reality.”

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Outdoors+Recreation Seizing the Smokies

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has an amazing array of mini-ecosystems within its borders — from peaks over 6,000 feet to low valleys, from moist, densely forested coves to dry meadows. A walk from mountain base to peak compares with traveling 1,250 miles north. Several resident plants and animals live only in the Smokies.

The park has more than 100 species of trees and 4,000 species of plants. Some people say if you throw a rock and then trace its path, you’re likely to walk by at least 30 different kinds of trees.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park encompasses more than 500,000 acres, making it the largest national park in the East.

Here are a few of the highlights on the North Carolina side of the GSMNP:

Oconaluftee Visitor Center Along with knowledgeable rangers who can help you plan your time in the park, fabulous exhibits will take you back in time among the early settlers and Cherokee who called these mountains home.

The visitor center chronicles the culture and history of the Smokies, from exhibits on the Civil War in the Smokies to moonshine making.

Located on U.S. 441 at the North Carolina

entrance to the park, north of Cherokee and near the terminus of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

828.497.1904.

Mountain Farm Museum This stroll through an historic Appalachian farm offers a window on the ingenuity and self-reliance of early mountain people and Cherokee. A blacksmith shop to make everything from barn door hinges to horseshoes, a spring house to keep milk and butter cool, and sundry buildings for storing the food they raised, from corn cribs to apple houses to smoke houses. The outhouse is a guaranteed eye-opener for kids.

Located at the entrance to the park on U.S. 441 just north of Cherokee.

Deep Creek Enjoy a little of everything at Deep Creek.

Hiking to waterfalls, picnicking, mountain biking, camping and what Deep Creek is famous for: tubing. Several outfitters rent inner tubes for just a few dollars to float all day in the creek. This is a fantastic place to visit for a few hours because you can do so many different activities without having to go to different

The future of wilderness camping, hiking and other sustainable outdoor recreation depends on more people adopting what’s known as Leave No Trace Principles.

• Plan Ahead and Prepare • Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces • Dispose of Waste Properly • Leave What You Find • Minimize Campfire Impacts • Respect Wildlife • Be Considerate of Other Visitors For more info, visit www.lnt.org.

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places. If you are in the Bryson City area, treat yourself to a visit.

Mingus Mill The rumble of mill stones, the whistle of corn meal sliding down the wooden shoot, the “slap-slap-slap” of water falling over the giant paddle wheel. Explore this historic site just one mile from the park entrance on U.S. 441 north of Cherokee.

Clingmans Dome A paved half-mile trail leads to a soaring lookout tower atop the highest peak in the Smokies. At 6,643 feet, the panoramic view offers spectacular scenery and is one of the best examples of the region’s famed blue mountain ridges marching endlessly across the horizon. The tower features a spiraling 375-foot ramp to the top.

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hiking the Waterfalls…

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Cataloochee Valley History and nature intersect in this picturesque meadow, a long, narrow valley cradled by mountains on all sides. An elk herd has been re-introduced into the park and calls the valley home. Cataloochee Valley is also home to a former mountain settlement, with intact farm houses, churches, schoolhouse and cemeteries that can be toured by car and short walks. Pick up an interpretive brochure at the campground on the left after you get down to the valley floor that describes the historic buildings.

Big Creek

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This relatively isolated area is a favorite of locals, with a campground, bathroom, picnic area and jumping off point for some great hikes into the Smokies, including the all-day hike up to Mount Cammerer lookout tower.

One of the coldest, clearest swimming holes in the Smokies — aptly named Midnight Hole — is a short one-mile hike up the wide Big Creek Trail.

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2016

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Outdoors+Recreation

The allure of the Cherohala Skyway

They say the easiest way to hide something is to place it right in front of someone. ell, what would you say if I told you one of the most beautiful roads in America was right in your backyard, and it’s something besides the Blue Ridge Parkway?

“I’ve lived in North Carolina my whole life and I never heard of the Cherohala Skyway,” said Phillip Davis. “It’s one of the most beautiful roads I’ve ever been on and I found it completely by accident.”

Standing next to his motorcycle, Davis scans the 360-degree mountain views from an outlook on the Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway, a 43-mile two-lane mountaintop road stretching from Robbinsville to Tellico Plains, Tennessee. He

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shakes his head when asked why more people aren’t aware of the Skyway.

“If you could compact the best parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway into 40 or so miles of road, it would be the Cherohala,” he said.

“It’s a road everyone needs to do at least once in their lifetime.”

The Skyway emerged in 1958, when the original route (which is now the Skyway) was a covered wagon trail, which was only used at the time as a novelty when the bookend communities would recreate the past on the “Wagon Train Road.” A buzz about maybe someday putting a road “up there” to connect all of the small mountain towns on both sides of the state line snowballed. By the early 1960s, Congress allocated funds to construct the Skyway. Thirty years and $100 million dollars later, the Skyway was officially opened in October 1996 — a mesmerizing piece of road meandering through some of the most desolate and mesmerizing landscape this side of the Mississippi River.

Crossing into Graham County on N.C. 28, the road is filled with steep inclines, rollercoaster down hills and s-curves galore. Before you know it, you’re in Robbinsville, an

outpost community, in the heart of the county. With the town being one end of the Skyway, Delphus and Cindy Lee just finished the riding the Skyway from west to east. Sitting on their motorcycle, the Kentucky cou-

Info:

The Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center in Tellico Plains has free maps, Skyway driving conditions and local area souvenirs and gifts. Picnic tables and restrooms are available. www.cherohala.org

ple makes a yearly trip along the Skyway.

“If you love to ride, it’s one of the most exhilarating roads you can get on,” Delphus said.

“The scenery and the curves,” Cindy smiled.

Heading to the start of the Skyway down N.C. 143 Thunder Mountain General Store suddenly appears. “Last Stop For 50 Miles” a small sign says in front of the building.

“1.3 million travelers go by our store every year,” said owner Ken Osburn. “Every corner of the world comes here.”

Osburn and his family came from Franklin, Tennessee They purchased and opened the store in January 2014 and are all smiles with

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all of the unique people who wander into their business. “[The Skyway] is Gatlinburg without all the riff raff,” he said. “It’s pure nature and beauty — you get to see where God showed off.”

Entering the Skyway, you’re immediately thrust into the sheer majesty of these mountains as an endless array of mountain ridges look back at your from Santeelah Gap. The multitude of ridges hypnotizes the viewer, almost as if they were ripples in some vast, mysterious ocean. Like a bottomless bowl of Halloween candy, millions of trees still hold strong to their leaves, with the foliage season far from over.

The Skyway itself is a smooth road with too many notable viewing spots to count, so many in fact, you might want to tack on a couple more hours to the time estimation of your trip. After awhile you neck begins to hurt from turning left and right nonstop, eager to not miss an inch of this utterly captivating landscape.

At a nearby outlook, Linda and Mickey Archer are standing in awe of their surroundings. Visiting from Pensacola, Florida, they’ve ventured up to the Skyway every year for the last 15.

“As Floridians, we don’t have mountains,” Linda chuckled. “The Skyway is just a wonderful experience, the people, the trees, the road — everything.”

“The views knock your socks off,” Mickey added.

Drifting further along, the miles seamlessly tick away. Thoughts and memories, new and old, filter through your field of vision. A person can do a lot of thinking on the Skyway, as if to escape from the madness of a fast-paced world and get back to nature, back to silence, back to where you can hear the most important voice in your life — your own.

At another outlook, you find yourself staring off into the abyss of not only Western North Carolina, but also your existence. It’s a pretty amazing feeling to hear nothing around you but your boots on the ground, the air in your lungs, and the occasional sound of a bird in flight to destinations unknown.

Soon, a sleek 1988 Chevrolet Corvette rolls up. At the wheel is Frank Helwig from Brantford, Ontario. With a grin ear-to-ear, the middle-aged man seems to have tapped into the fountain of youth cruising the Skyway.

“This car was made for this road,” he laughed. “This place is spectacular, it really is.

That’s why I came — it’s a trip of a lifetime.”

WNCTravel

2016

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Outdoors+Recreation Blue Ridge Parkway serves up the best of the mountains he Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Parkway and All-American Road that winds for 469 miles from the southern end of Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive in Virginia to U.S. 441 at Oconaluftee in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee.

It’s hard to get lost on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It only goes in two directions — north or south. Short, wooden posts along the edge of the road mark off each mile — the entire 469-mile length of the Parkway — making it easy to know exactly where you are. The milemarker is listed for the recommended stops on the Parkway below, and should be easy to find by watching the mileposts. (Hint: the numbers get bigger as you go south, so the end of the Parkway in Cherokee is mile 469.)

The Parkway boasts more than 200 overlooks and more than 100 trails. The local section of the Parkway runs from the southern end in Oconaluftee to the Pisgah Inn on the Haywood Transylvania County line. Along this stretch of scenic road you’ll find highlights such as the Parkway’s highest elevation overlook at Richland Balsam (6,053 feet), views of Cold Mountain made famous by author Charles Frazier, Waterrock Knob and Oconaluftee Visitors Centers, and Devil’s Courthouse Trail.

The Parkway is made for exploring. Here are few suggested highlights in our region, but feel free to ignore them. It’s all about the journey, not the destination.

T

STOPS Waterrock Knob Visitors Center, milemarker 451 A must for Parkway travelers. Stop here to get recommendations from park rangers on things to do and see, plus pick up a free Parkway map and browse the bookstore. Views are fabulous if you are looking for a picnic spot. Also, there is a one-mile hike to the summit of Waterrock Knob. Interesting fact: the visitor center is powered by solar panels.

Richland Balsam, milemarker 432 The views are great all along the Parkway, but there’s even a milestone achievement available for those don’t want to hike but prefer just getting out of their car to take a picture, enjoy

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the view, or have a picnic. Just about halfway between the Balsam Gap (U.S. 23-74) and N.C. 215 entrance to the Parkway, near milepost 432, is the Parkway’s highest point (6,053 feet), which is marked with a large sign and a great overlook. Just a mile away at milepost 431 is the Richland-Balsam Self-Guiding Trail, which is just one mile long and meanders through a spruce-fir forest. You’ll top out at an elevation of 6,410 feet, the 10th highest peak in the Eastern U.S. Devil’s Courthouse, milemarker 422 This one-mile round-trip trail leads to the top of stunning rock formation, a giant pedestal that seems to rise up magically from the mountains around it and makes you feel like you’re on top of the world looking out. Despite

the sheer drop off all around you, rock walls provide a sense of safety — just don’t hop over them or let kids climb on the edge. Ecologically, visitors should stay off the cliff face, which is home to peregrine falcons and endangered rock-clinging lichens and plant life. The trail is steep but paved, making it accessible to anyone if you take it slow and steady.

Sam’s Knob, milemarker 420 Stellar hiking trails lead into the Shining Rock Wilderness, passing over grassy balds, rock outcrops, high elevation streams and fir forests. The area is riddled with trails, some of which extend for miles into the Shining Rock Wilderness, so if you don’t have a map, watch the way you came carefully. To reach the parking area, turn down a gravel forest service road.

Upper Falls at Graveyard Fields, milemarker 419 A high-elevation bowl is home to two waterfalls, a swimming hole and crystal clear rocky stream. Unlike the dense forests that engulf most hiking trails in the Smokies, this area is defined by open meadows.

Mt. Pisgah (5,749 feet) Located near milepost 408, this mountain with the Biblical name used to be part of the George Vanderbilt Estate (he’s the man who built Biltmore Estate). A parking area is well marked, and the hike is only about a mile but it is relatively strenuous to the platform atop the mountain. Once there, however, the 360-degree views are fabulous. Nearby campground and one of the only restaurants on the Parkway at the Pisgah Inn.

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WNCTravel

2016

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Outdoors+Recreation Mountain Biking This is one of the fastest growing recreational activities in the Smokies, one easily witnessed by all the vehicles with mountain bikes strapped to the back or top. Pretty straightforward as to why so may partake of this sport: the Smokies contain some of the best bike trails anywhere.

Here are the popular spots: Tsali Recreation Area (Graham County) This is the granddaddy of Western North Carolina mountain biking, boasting 40 miles of trails on four loops. Rated as one of top 10 places to ride in the U.S. Fast, hard-packed singletrack, and you can’t go wrong with any of the loops. Off N.C. 28 past Bryson City, or if coming from Robbinsville N.C. 143 until you reach N.C. 28, go east. Entrance on north side of N.C. 28, well-marked.

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Santeetlah Lake Trail A 15-mile trail open to mountain bikes, horses, and hikers. The trail follows a number of open and gated Forest Service roads with a short portion of singletrack. Large sections of the trail hug the shoreline of Lake Santeetlah offering beautiful mountain lake views. The primary trailhead is located at the intersection of N.C. 143 (N.C. 1127) and Snowbird Road.

Jackrabbit Mountain (Lake Chatuge) Located next to the huge Jackrabbit Campground at Lake Chatuge, this 14-mile trail system is gaining popularity fast. Mostly flat with rolling dips and berms and just a few technical areas. At Lake Chatuge get on N.C. 175, turn onto Jackrabbit Road, signed parking area on left.

Western Carolina University Trail (Cullowhee) Recently opened 6.6 miles of singletrack across the street from main WCU campus in Cullowhee. Challenging but relatively short. The trail system has two trailheads. One is located near the softball field and picnic area on WCU main campus, east of N.C. 107.

Trail users then travel through the pedestrian tunnel under 107 and access the trail on NCCAT property.

The second trailhead is located at the parking lot of the Health and Human Sciences building.

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Bent Creek (Asheville) Located near where N.C. 191 intersects the Blue Ridge Parkway and I-26, this favorite among Asheville locals because of its proximity to this outdoors-loving city. Lots of hardpacked singletrack with very few technical sections, great place for beginner to intermediate riders and for children. www.mtbikewnc.com.

Dupont State Park (Brevard) This has become one of the premier destinations in the region. 10,000 acres of trails, waterfalls, and rivers. Great spot with numerous trailheads. www.dupontforest.com.

Pisgah National Forest (Brevard) Hundreds of miles of trails for bikers, some of it among the most technical in the region. For information on specific trails and trailheads, visit www.mtbikewnc.com.

WNCTravel

2016

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Outdoors+Recreation The Tuckasegee River in Jackson County.

These rivers and their watersheds encompass the Nantahala National Forest and the two most visited units of the national park system, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. All of these rivers have offer fishing, canoeing and kayaking, tubing, and a host of recreational opportunities. Check the county travel and tourism websites for particulars in each county.

Oconaluftee The Oconaluftee, considered “sacred waters” by the Cherokee, and known as the “Luftee,” is a beautiful, freestone river that

Oconaluftee Islands Park in Cherokee.

Blueway Trails of the North Carolina Smokies

Four rivers — the Little Tennessee, Nantahala, Oconaluftee and Tuckaseegee — flow through the NC Smokies and into Fontana Lake at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains, creating a spectacular “Blueways Trail” throughout the region.

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drops 2,000 feet over 10 miles and flows through Cherokee before joining the Little Tennessee on the way to Lake Fontana. Wading, tubing and canoeing are all popular here.

However, the Luftee is most famous for its abundant healthy rainbow, brook and brown Trout.

Little Tennessee The Little Tennessee and its immediate watershed comprise one of the richest archaeological areas in the Southeastern US. Known to the avid fisherman for its small mouth bass, this river is a popular spot for canoeing, fishing and floating. Travelers and locals alike enjoy the town of Franklin’s Little Tennessee Greenway as it winds along the river.

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Nantahala The Nantahala offers river rafting and kayaking through family-friendly rapids and is a popular spot for the amateur as well as the Olympic paddler. It features eight miles of Class II rapids before splashing through the exciting Class III whitewater of Nantahala Falls. It is also recognized as one of the area’s premier trout streams. So good in fact, that Trout Unlimited included it on their list of the Top 100 Trout Streams in the U.S.

The Tuckasegee, known as the “Tuck,” originates In Jackson County and runs through Cullowhee, Sylva, Dillsboro and Bryson City on its way to Fontana Lake. A float trip on the Tuck is an exhilarating way to experience fly fishing in the southern Appalachians, and the river is so popular for fishing the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce has produced its own WNC Fly Fishing Trail map for the Tuck. The river has areas that are as wide as many western rivers, offering plenty of room for back casting. The Tuck is also a popular river for tubing, floating and canoeing.

For more information about the WNC Fly Fishing Trail, visit flyfishingtrail.com.

WNCTravel

2016

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Outdoors+Recreation Throwing caution to the wind — WNC disc golf

Alongside trail running, hiking and mountain biking, disc golf has become one of the most popular outdoor activities — it really is that much fun. Western North Carolina is home to several fantastic disc golf courses. Here are a handful of local favorites, for beginners all the way up to expert levels:

bucket. Throw it too hard to the left, you’re in poison ivy. Too hard to the right and you’ll have to ask the center to help get your disc off their roof.

Advanced Haywood Community College, Clyde Tranquil, quiet course. Not too many folks around. Holes meander into the woods, which surround the school. Nice trails. The 18 holes are somewhat challenging, but not too far out of reach for intermediate players.

• Key hole: #16. Launch pad is situated right in front of an apple tree grove. On a sunny southern afternoon, there’s no place you’d rather throw from.

• Trouble hole: #17. Your love of #16 can quickly diminish if you throw your disc too hard and it winds up in the nearby pond bordering the bucket. Throw more to the right and play it safe.

Brooke Palay photo

Expert

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Beginner

Intermediate

Catamount Links, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee It’s pretty impossible for one to lose their disc on this course. Looping around the athletic fields, there are wide-open spaces and sparse tree lines. Though there are only 13 holes, many of them are extended in length, and a real treat to be able to truly chuck your disc without fear of it disappearing.

• Key hole: #1. Between the launch pad and bucket is the WCU “Pride of the Mountains” marching band practice field. Cool to watch and play around, but be aware of your throw.

• Trouble hole: #4. With the bucket in front of a pond, play it safe or else you’ll be fishing out your disc.

Waynesville Disc Golf Course, Waynesville Recreation Center Though plenty of holes are very welcoming for beginners, there are definitely some difficult ones. If you don’t know the 18-hole course, which can be a little tricky to navigate, ask the center for a complimentary map, or simply ask around (lots of folks play this course).

• Key hole: #14. Quite possibly one of the nicest mountain viewpoints in town, the launch pad is absolutely gorgeous to throw from, especially nearing sunset.

• Trouble hole: #14. As pretty as it is, this hole can also be a terror. Play it conservative if you’re not sure how to “attack” the

Richmond Hill, Asheville Quite possibly the most beloved disc golf course in the region, it’s 18 holes of utter chaos looping around a wooded mountain ridge. One hole you’re throwing way uphill, the next it’s back down the other side. Very challenging, but if played with respect and caution (for intermediate players), one can have the time of their lives out there.

• Key hole: #9. As rough and tough as this hole is, aesthetically it’s the reason (and ultimate goal) why we disc golf freaks play this sport day in and day out.

• Trouble hole: #5. Simply put, you can’t see the bucket over the hill from the launch pad.

With woods on both sides of the path, and with a bad throw, you could spend awhile tracking down your disc.

As well, there are also courses at Heritage Park (18) in Andrews; Bethel Elementary (9); Meadowbrook Elementary (9) in Canton; and Bear Lake Reserve (9) and the Jackson County Recreation Center (18), both in Cullowhee. For more information on the sport of disc golf and course locations, click on www.pdga.org.

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Swinging for the Smokies

There’s nothing like playing a round of golf at high elevation to quicken the blood and make you feel alive.

Golf courses in Western North Carolina have attitude as well as altitude, challenging golfers in the most gorgeous of settings.

In this mountain region, there are a handful of top-notch public courses, including the Sequoyah National in Cherokee (designed by Robert Trent Jones II) and the historic 27 holes at Waynesville Inn, Golf Resort and Spa. In the

High Hampton Inn & Country Club.

Cashiers area of Jackson County, the scenic High Hampton Inn is regarded as one of the most picturesque courses in the country.

Other public area golf courses include: • Cherokee Hills Golf Club, Murphy 828.837.5853 • Franklin Golf Course, Franklin 828.524.2288 • www.franklingolfcourse.com • The Golf Club at Mill Creek, Franklin 828.524.4653 • www.thegolfclubatmillcreek.com • High Hampton Inn & Country Club, Cashiers 800.334.2551 • www.highhamptoninn.com • Lake Junaluska Golf Course, Lake Junaluska 800.222.4930 • www.lakejunaluska.com

• Maggie Valley Club & Resort, Maggie Valley 855.467.2430 • www.maggievalleyclub.com • The Ridges Golf Club, Hayesville 828.233.5273 • www.theridgesgolfclub.com • Sequoyah National Golf Club, Whittier 828.497.3000 • www.sequoyahnational.com • Smoky Mountain Country Club, Whittier 800.474.0070 • www.smokymountaincc.com.

• Springdale Country Club, Canton 800.553.3027 • www.springdalegolf.com • Waynesville Inn, Golf Resort and Spa, Waynesville 800.627.6250 • www.wccinn.com

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Art+Culture All in the family at Riverwood Pottery Standing in her Dillsboro studio, potter Zan Barnes can’t help but smile.

“If you told me in high school that this is what I’d be doing, I’d have laughed in your face — absolutely not,” she said.

A second-generation potter, Barnes is tucked away in her own little “Zen den.”

Next to her at all times is Zelda, a rescued Great Dane as gentle as she is large. The wooden structure is long and winding, with a low-hanging roof, where blocks of clay, buckets of water, countless shelves and finished items reside — all under a grove of trees, a stone’s thrown from the main house of the Riverwood Shops along the Tuckasegee River.

“The whole 9 to 5 thing never fulfilled my creative juices, never clicked right for me,” Barnes said. “I’m able to thrive here, and also make a reliable living.”

A few feet from her front door is River-

40

Potter Zan Barnes and her parents, Brant and Karen.

wood Pottery, a 41-year-old business that has been owned by Barnes’ parents, Brant and Karen, for the last 21. It’s a space as familiar and comfortable to Zan as her childhood home was, where she spent the days of her youth coming into the studio and simply letting her imagination run wild.

“Being in the studio all the time didn’t seem unusual to me because it was all I knew,” Zan said. “I still have all these little

pinch pots and bowls I made when I was tiny, a picture of me at my father’s pottery wheel with a lump of clay.”

With both studios under the same roof, the Barnes family is hard at work day in and day out, taking their ideas and molding them into a physical product that, in turn, creates an emotional connection with those who pick up the pieces, ultimately bringing them home.

“I love that pottery is functional,” Zan said.

“It’s not something you’re just going to hang on the wall and leave, you’re going to touch it and use it everyday.”

And though she was surrounded by clay and possibility all through her early years, Zan wanted to do something else. She found herself at Western Carolina University, using her degree in costume design to pursue a career at the college in the theatre department. After a few years, she began to feel that part of her soul was not getting the attention it deserved.

“So, I decided to go back to the studio fulltime,” Zan said. “I missed being here, I missed the rhythm of life. I realized that I never stopped making pots. Even in my free time, my open weekends, I was in the studio making pottery.”

After obtaining a master’s degree of fine arts in ceramics from the University of North Texas, Zan came back to open up shop next door to Brant and Karen. That action alone was something near and dear to the heart of

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On top of old Haywood.

the lifelong potters.

“We’ve seen a lot of multi-generational potters learn from their parents and grandparents, and yet they never seem to go beyond that. Zan has really created her own identity,” Karen said. “With the three of us working here, there’s always something going on. None of us do anything the same, where we have this glow and energy sharing this medium of art together.”

Wandering around the two studios, one finds themselves fascinated by the endless pieces adorning the walls and tables. Looking down at one of the floors, the name “Brant” is inscribed into the slab, marking who poured the concrete for the original owner 20 years before that name itself took over the location.

“I’m a full time potter, going on 40 years,” Brant said. “I figure I’ll make pottery until I’m 75, seeing as my dad made cabinets until he was that age. But, I won’t stop. They say potters can’t retire, so I’ll probably just make smaller and smaller pieces as time goes along,” he grinned.

One continually picks up on the sincere love and admiration permeating through the Barnes family. It’s a connection that itself can be felt in the air, and also in the pottery, where the fingerprints — literally and figuratively — of the trio cover each piece.

“Pottery is a very intimate and immediate art form,” Zan said. “As humans, we’ve interacted and created pottery our entire existence. It’s part of who we are as human beings — part of where we came from and who we are today.”

WNCTravel

2016

They say these mountains are 250 million years old. Yet somehow, every morning, they always feel brand-new. Just call us at (828) 926-1401 or visit us at CataloocheeRanch.com to learn more about horseback riding, dining, lodging, special events and the mile-high hospitality of the Ranch. And see why, after all this time, the beauty of Haywood County never gets old.

{Celebrating the Southern Appalachians}

Smoky Mountain Living celebrates the mountain region’s culture, music, art, and special places. We tell our stories for those who are lucky enough to live here and those who want to stay in touch with where they love.

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Art+Culture Balsam Mountain Inn ‘Songwriters in the Round’ Pulling off the Great Smoky Mountains Expressway onto the Cabin Flats Road, within an earshot of Waynesville, the quiet road soon turns from pavement to gravel to dirt.

And just as quickly the Balsam Mountain Inn appears, looming high above Cabin Flats like a postcard of a forgotten era, perhaps lost in the mailroom of time, a point in history when style and class were synonymous.

Stepping onto the large porch, dusty memories echo out of the creaking wood of this 108-year-old building. Innumerable rooms and hallways are lit up, with the structure glowing like some lighthouse on the high seas of an ocean, one of mountain ridges

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that ripple far and wide into the darkness of Southern Appalachia.

“It’s an interesting old building,” Merrily Teasley chuckled. “It has a lot of interesting stories in it.”

Teasley has made it her life’s mission to ensure the survival of the Balsam Mountain Inn. Through all of its ups and downs in recent decades, the longtime owner remains steadfast in her quest to preserve the history and continued legacy of this storied property.

“It just gives me lots of pleasure to see people enjoy the inn and what we’re trying to do here,” Teasley modestly said. “It feels good to make people happy.”

And on a recent Saturday evening, there were a handful of new entries added to the ongoing book of tales at the Balsam Mountain Inn as the most recent installment of their “Songwriters in the Round” series took place.

Modeled after the legendary performances held at The Bluebird Café in Nashville, the series brings together three acclaimed singer-songwriters each month at the inn. The musicians sit in a circle facing

each other, plucking away in a “round robin” fashion, sharing their melodies and the stories behind each selection for the dozens upon dozens of curious faces surrounding them.

It’s an intimate setting. The musician is completely vulnerable, where the audience can witness the artist in their element.

There are no distractions, just someone with

Want to go?

The “Songwriters in the Round” showcase is a monthly series at the Balsam Mountain Inn. For information on future showcases, visit www.balsammountaininn.com, call 800.224.9498 or 828.456.9498 or email info@balsammountaininn.net. Tickets are $49 per person, which includes a buffet dinner.

something to say and guitar in hand.

The performers at the recent gathering at the inn were songwriting colleagues Sally Barris, Henry Hipkens and Jim Photoglo.

Each are all well known A-list wordsmiths in the Nashville music circles, with many hits garnered between them.

“As far as songwriting is concerned, places like the Balsam Mountain Inn provide a venue for songwriters to be heard outside of Nashville,” Hipkens said. “Such places also provide a way for songwriters to create a real connection with listeners. Most songwriters are not well known and so it’s difficult to attract an audience based on name recognition alone.”

And yet, before even one guitar note is played or lyric sung, the 118 folks in attendance illed the large dining room, ready to indulge in not only music, but also culinary delights. Before each show, the inn cooks up a feast of mammoth proportions. Lining up at the buffet table, attendees pile their plates high with prime rib, chicken and trout offerings, which go

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While in Western North Carolina visit the historic

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hand-in-hand with the decadent desserts endlessly flowing from the nearby kitchen.

“The food complements the performers,” said Head Chef Clifford Reum. “And we want to continue to build the reputation of this place, to have it grow. The more, the merrier. This place is magical, there are really no other words to describe it.”

Head server Walter Davis is zooming around the numerous tables, making sure every single detail is taken care of. It’s a scene that one can’t help but notice is a lost art when it comes to his professionalism in providing you with the finest experience possible.

“I’m old school and was trained as a formal waiter. It’s all about attention to the individual,” he said. “There’s really nothing like the Balsam Mountain Inn on the eastern seaboard. I love to serve and it’s an absolute pleasure to serve these people.”

After the plates are cleared off the tables, and wine glasses refilled, every chair gets turned toward the center of the dining room.

The overhead lights are dimmed, with the bulbs above the microphones bright, as if illuminating a bonfire of words and chords we’re all huddling around to keep our hearts and souls warm.

Barris, Hipkens and Photoglo trade off melodies, each as unique in tone and content as the voices and notes radiating from their acoustic guitars. Heads bob and feet tap along to the selections that run the gamut of emotions. Love lost. Love found.

Childhood nostalgia. Wonderment of what tomorrow will bring. And though you might get caught in the time warp nature of songs immortal, a couple hours have ticked away on the clock.

The show must come to an end. The guitars packed up. Handshakes and hugs all around between friends, new and old. Joyous faces make plans to attend next month’s showcase — all with a song in their heart and a kick in their step.

WNCTravel

2016

Artss and Fine Crafts The Stecoah Artisans Gallery features featur the l hi i work of the area’s finest artists. An Appalachian Evening, our premier summer concert series, showcases authentic Appalachian entertainment every Saturday night from the end of June through August. Enjoy an authentic Appalachian Dinner before the concerts. The Schoolhouse Café offers tasty snacks, drinks and coffee, and free wi-fi.

Our Textile Studio has hands-on exhibits. Year ‘round Classes include culinary, textile and other art forms. Visit our Artisans Studios and galleries during our two open house drive-about tours in June and November. And don’t forget our seasonal Arts and Crafts Shows and Festivals. For more information visit StecoahValleyCenter.com or call 828-479-3364 Stecoah is about a half-hour west of Bryson City via US-74 West and NC-28 North.

Reservations are recommended for classes. The Gallery is open 10 am – 5 pm, Monday thru Saturday, March thru October; and 10 am – 5 pm, Monday thru Friday, November and December. Closed January and February.

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Arts+Culture Performance Venues

Robbinsville

Live music is an important part of the heritage of Western North Carolina. Here’s a listing of venues that regularly have bands in the region:

• Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center 828.479.3364 • www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

Andrews

Franklin

• Andrews Brewing 828.321.2006 • www.andrewsbrewing.com • Hoppy Trout Brewing Company 828.835.2111 • www.hoppytroutbrewing.com • Jimmy’s Pick-N-Grin www.jimmyspickngrin.com

• Lazy Hiker Brewing 828.342.5133 • www.lazyhikerbrewing.com • Mixers Bar and Nightclub 828.369.9211 • www.mixersbarandnightclub.com • Mulligan’s Bar & Grille 828.349.3183 • www.mulligans-bar.com • Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts 828.524.1598 • www.greatmountainmusic.com

Brasstown • John C. Campbell Folk School 800.365.5724 or 828.837.2775 www.folkschool.org

Bryson City • CJ’s Grille 828.488.9880 • Derailed Bar & Lounge 828.488.8898 • Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot 800.872.4681 • www.gsmr.com • Mickey’s Pub 828.488.9308 • Nantahala Brewing 828.488.2337 • www.nantahalabrewing.com • Nantahala Outdoor Center 888.905.7238 • www.noc.com

Canton • Colonial Theatre 828.235.2760 • www.cantonnc.com • Southern Porch 828.492.8009

Hayesville • Chevelle’s 828.835.7001 • www.chevellerestaurants.com • Peacock Performing Arts Center 828.389.2787 • www.peacockplayhouse.org

Highlands • Lost Hiker 828.526.8232 • www.thelosthikerbar.com • Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center 828.526.9047 • www.highlandspac.net • Satulah Mountain Brewing 828.482.9794 • www.satulahmountainbrewing.com • Ugly Dog Pub 828.526.8364 • www.theuglydogpub.com

Maggie Valley

• Harrah’s Cherokee 828.497.7777 • www.harrahscherokee.com

• Eaglenest 828.926.9658 • Maggie Valley Festival Grounds 828.926.0866 • www.maggievalleyfestivalgrounds.org • Maggie Valley Opry House 828.648.7941 or 828.926.9336 www.raymondfairchild.com • Maggie Valley Rendezvous 828.926.0201 • www.maggievalleyhotel.com • Salty Dog’s Seafood and Grill 828.926.9105 • Stompin’ Ground 828.926.1288

Cullowhee

Murphy

• Tuck’s Tap & Grille 828.293.5400 • www.tuckstapgrille.com

• Chevelle’s 828.389.6069 • www.chevellerestaurants.com

Cashiers • Ugly Dog Pub 828.743.3000 • www.theuglydogpub.com

Cherokee

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Sylva • Balsam Mountain Inn and Restaurant 800.224.9498 • www.balsammountaininn.net • City Lights Café 828.587.2233 • www.citylightscafe.com • Cut Cocktail Lounge 828.631.4795 • Evolution Wine Kitchen 828.631.9856 www.evolutionwinekitchen.com • Guadalupe Café 828.586.9877 • www.guadalupecafe.com • Heinzelmannchen Brewery 828.631.4466 www.yourgnometownbrewery.com • Innovation Brewing 828.586.9678 • www.innovation-brewing.com • Mad Batter Food & Film 828.586.3555 • www.madbatterfoodfilm.com • No Name Sports Pub 828.586.2750 • www.nonamesportspub.com • O’Malley’s Pub & Grill 828.631.0554 • Signature Brew Coffee Roasting Company 828.587.6300 • Soul Infusion 828.586.1717 • www.soulinfusion.com • Sneak E Squirrel 828.586.6440 • www.sneakesquirrel.com

Waynesville • BearWaters Brewing 828.246.0602 • www.bwbrewing.com • Boojum Brewing 828.944.0888 • www.boojumbrewing.com • Classic Wineseller 828.452.6000 • www.classicwineseller.com • Frog Level Brewing 828.454.5664 • www.froglevelbrewing.com • Mad Anthony’s Bottle Shop & Beer Garden 828.246.9249 • www.madanthonys.bar • Smoky Mountain Roasters 828.452.1212 www.fb.com/smokymountainroasters • The Strand at 38 Main 828.283.0079 • www.38main.com • Tipping Point Brewing 828.246.9230 • www.tippingpointtavern.com • Water’n Hole Bar & Grill 828.456.4750

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2016

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Arts+Culture HART enters second act: Beloved theatre opens new stage itting on a bench one recent sunny afternoon, Steven Lloyd gazes to his right, a big smile immediately rolling across his face.

“When I look over there, I see potential — a lot of potential,” he said.

Executive director for the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville, Lloyd is situated underneath the large awning of the 10,000-square-foot building. To his right, numerous construction workers are putting the final touches on the brand new second stage structure, the Daniel & Belle Fangmeyer Theatre, which sits proudly mere feet from its older sibling.

“It’s the potential for a lot of concert events, theatre events, community events, outdoor events with people sitting on the hillside, and the restaurant, which will make it possible for people to come and eat before a show,” he said. “This new stage will catapult our theatre into one of the best production companies in the Southeast.”

The 9,000-square-foot second stage (with around a 140 person capacity) has been years in the making. Breaking ground in 2014, the building is expected to open to the public the weekend of June 25-26, with the production of “All My Sons” aiming for an Aug. 5 opening. Of the $1.2 million price tag, HART was able to raise around $1 million of that through the generous support of many longtime donors and supporters along with a few new ones.

“The more people you have, the better off you are,” Lloyd said. “The truth is that you’re building a foundation of support. All of those people who have given thousands of dollars all the way down to $10, whether it’s large or small, are invested in what you’re trying to do, so you’ve got this army of people behind you.”

Lloyd pointed to the fact of how strong the foundation of the theatre is — in its vision and its run of sold-out productions — which gives supporters a piece of mind in knowing just what their donations are going toward.

S

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With the original HART building (left) opened in 1997, the new second stage structure (right) is expected to open in late June. Garret K. Woodward photo

“People like giving to things that are stable, and all along I’ve been clear that this is my home and I don’t want to go anywhere else,” he said.

“You’re building a legacy and people have faith in what you say, and know you’ll stick around to follow through with it.”

And stick around he has. At 62, Lloyd “You’re building has been executive director of the thea legacy and atre for the last 26 people have years. As part of a faith in what statewide initiative (Edwin Gill Theatre you say, and Project) that know you’ll brought plays and stick around to productions to follow through every school district every year, with it.”

— Steven Lloyd Lloyd came to Western North Carolina as a visiting artist at Haywood Community College. At that time (1990), HART was being run out of The Strand in downtown Waynesville.

“HART didn’t really have anybody running it that knew how to run a theatre. They kind

of went from show to show without any real planning,” Lloyd said. “We were in The Strand until 1993, when the fire marshal kicked us out because the building was not up to code and we were just renting the space. We moved to HCC and started fundraising for the new building [which was opened in 1997].”

In the decades since the current building opened, HART has proven itself not only an artistic hub of Western North Carolina, but also an economic driver for Waynesville and greater Haywood County. With a $2.5 million a year impact on the local economy, HART continues to grow, physically and financially, which is due in no small part to Lloyd’s dayin-day-out vigor to put his theatre on the national map.

“In this day and age, the arts are being chopped out of communities, out of classrooms, and out of the national dialogue, and yet there’s still this many people that want to support HART,” Lloyd smiled. “We’ve grown in a very steady way, never putting anything out there that was too outrageous to achieve.

It’s been very slow, very consistent, and we’ve proven that we’re good for the economy of the community. We make money for everybody. We have a lot of tourists that come here and are drawn to the theatre.

They spend the night here, eat here, and spend a lot more money here — we’ve been

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able to make the economic argument that the arts are good for business.”

A top-notch theater, though, does not necessarily ensure financial viability.

Sure, you might have captivating productions hit the stage, but how do you get people in the door, how do you keep the books and costs balanced in order to ensure a future?

“I’m a very good businessman. My grandfather owned a carnival, so I grew up in a carnival family,” Lloyd smiled. “I was kind of like ‘Toby Tyler’ as a kid growing up, and that meant every night we were sitting down and counting money. I grew up in the business side of show business. I also never got seduced into expecting a lot of grants and government support. I’ve always operated this theater by promoting ideas and productions that can pay for themselves. Any project we take on has to pay for itself, anything from the town and state is extra, but we’re not dependent on it, which helps us when cuts are made at those government levels.”

With the second stage just weeks away from opening, Lloyd is looking forward to the new space and what it will bring, in terms of productions and opportunities, one of which being the creation of a youth drama program. And yet, one wonders, after 26 years and counting at the helm, if Lloyd is getting ready to hand off the torch to the next generation of HART. He chuckled at the query.

“God willing, I expect I’ll still be doing this in 10 years. I have no desire to retire — this is what I love to do,” he said. “And I’m looking forward to getting a bigger staff as we grow financially. I don’t know what I’d do with myself if I didn’t have this place, and I think I’ll always feel that way.”

For more information on HART and showtimes, click on www.harttheatre.org or call 828.456.6322 or boxoffice@harttheatre.org.

WNCTravel

2016

Theaters & Playhouses • Colonial Theatre, Canton 828.235.2760 • www.cantonnc.com • Franklin High School Fine Arts Center 828.524.2787 • Haywood Arts Regional Theatre, Waynesville 828.456.6322 • www.harttheater.org • Highlands Playhouse 828.526.2695 • www.highlandsplayhouse.org • John W. Bardo Fine & Performing Arts Center, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee 828.227.2479 • www.wcu.edu/bardoartscenter • Peacock Performing Arts Center, Hayesville 828.389.2787 • www.peacockplayhouse.org • Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 828.524.1598 • www.greatmountainmusic.com • Smoky Mountain Community Theatre, Bryson City 828.488.8227 • www.smctheatre.com • Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, Robbinsville 828.479.3364 • www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

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Arts+Culture WNC Museums

Although the rich history and culture of Western North Carolina is alive and thriving through the hands of our local artisans and performers, there are also numerous museums here preserving and perpetuating the heritage of Southern Appalachia. These buildings each pay homage to the crafts, sounds, and deeply held traditions of these ancient mountains and its people.

The Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley.

• Andrews Art Museum Exhibits and galleries featuring local and regional artists. Corner of Chestnut and Third streets, Andrews.

828.360.5071 • www.andrewsvalleyarts.com • Canton Area Historical Museum Displays focusing on the cultural history of Canton and Haywood County. 36 Park Street, Canton.

828.646.3412 • www.cantonnc.com • Cherokee County Historical Museum Artifacts and exhibits showcasing the Cherokee Indians, local history and artisans.

87 Peachtree Street, Murphy.

828.837.6792 • www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov

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• Clay County Historical & Arts Council Museum Displays exhibiting the history, art and people of the area. 21 Davis Loop, Hayesville.

828.389.6814 • www.clayhistoryarts.org • Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum Extensive exhibits on the region’s gems and minerals. 25 Phillips Street, Franklin.

828.369.7831 • www.fgmm.org • Graham County Museum of Prehistoric Relics A collection of prehistoric artifacts from North, South and Central America. 3204 Fontana Road, Fontana Dam. 828.479.3677 • www.thehikeinn.com

• Highlands Museum & Historical Village A village composed of several restored buildings, with historical exhibits in the museum.

524 North 4th Street, Highlands.

828.787.1050 • www.highlandshistory.com • Junaluska Memorial & Museum Displays dedicated to preserving Cherokee Indian history and culture. 1 Junaluska Drive, Robbinsville.

828.479.4727 • Macon County Historical Society & Museum Antiques and artifacts showcasing the history of Macon and Western North Carolina.

36 West Main Street, Franklin.

828.524.9758 • www.maconnchistorical.org • Mountain Farm Museum Collection of historical log buildings and artifacts.

150 U.S. 441 North, Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

423.436.1200 • www.nps.gov/grsm • Mountain Heritage Center Extensive displays of Western North Carolina and Southern Appalachian history. 150 H.F. Robinson Building, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee.

828.227.7129 • www.wcu.edu • Museum of American Cut & Engraved Glass Exhibits presenting one of the finest collections of its kind in the world.

472 Chestnut Street, Highlands.

828.526.3415 • www.ashevilleguidebook.com • Museum of the Cherokee Indian Large exhibits showcasing the extensive and intricate tribe history. 589 Tsali Boulevard, Cherokee.

828.497.3481 • www.cherokeemuseum.org • Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts Featuring unique works from some of the state’s most acclaimed artisans.

49 Shelton Street, Waynesville.

828.452.1551 • www.sheltonhouse.org • Ruby City Gems Museum Thousands of gem and mineral specimens on display. 131 East Main Street, Franklin.

828.524.3967 • www.rubycity.com • Scottish Tartans Museum Exhibit on Scottish history and culture abroad and in Western North Carolina.

86 East Main Street, Franklin.

828.524.7472 • www.scottishtartans.org • Wheels Through Time Museum Rare and extensive collection of vintage motorcycles and classic automobiles.

62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley 828.926.6266 • www.wheelsthroughtime.com • World Methodist Museum Artifacts and memorabilia celebrating founder John Wesley and the worldwide religion. 575 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Junaluska.

828.456.9432 • www.worldmethodistcouncil.org

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We have Native and Enriched Gemstones buckets. We also have Gold Panning. New and Improved large covered flume for Gem Mining rain or shine. New inside heated flume for cold days.

Located on highway 441, 6 miles north of Franklin, NC.. Open most of the year. Call for Hours. Tour buses group rates available. Bring your rough stones in for a free inspection and cutting from our professional team in our jewelry store.

9410 Sylva Rd. • Highway 441 N, Franklin, NC 800.713.7767 or 828.369.3905 www.GoldCityAmusement.com

Over 12,000 Square Feet to Explore!

ANTIQUES JEWELRY • GIFTS HOME DECOR NEW FURNITURE 581 W. MAIN ST. · DOWNTOWN SYLVA · 828.586.3600

The Fun Place to Shop!

WNCTravel

2016

49

Upcoming Events Ongoing • First/Third Thursdays — Community music jam, Bryson City. www.fontanalib.org • First Friday of the Month — Art After Dark, Waynesville. Evening stroll of galleries, restaurants and breweries in downtown. www.downtownwaynesville.com • First Friday of the Month — Art Walk, Murphy.

Stroll downtown art galleries, restaurants and shops. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • Late May to Labor Day — Music on the River, Cherokee. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Memorial Day to Labor Day — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • Memorial Day to Mid-October — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Memorial Day to September — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • Memorial Day to Early September — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • Early June to Labor Day — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • Early June to Late October — Bryson City Train Depot concert series. www.greatsmokies.com • Early June to Late July — Movies on Everett, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Mid-June to October — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Late June to Labor Day — Saturdays on Pine concert series, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • May 27-Oct. 1 — Cherokee Bonfire & Storytelling (Fridays/Saturdays) www.visitcherokeenc.com

June • June 2-4 — Cherokee Bluegrass Festival. www.adamsbluegrass.com • June 3 — Art After Dark, Waynesville. www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com • June 3 — Art Walk, Murphy. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • June 3 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • June 3 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • June 3 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • June 3 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • June 3 — Movies on Everett, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • June 4 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com

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• June 4 — Quick Draw Art Benefit, Waynesville. wncquickdraw.com • June 4 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • June 4 — 6th annual Art, River & Music Festival, Murphy. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • June 4 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • June 4-5 — Ole Smokey Tractor Farm Fest, Lake Junaluska. www.olesmokytractorclub.com • Early June — Car-B-Que, Hayesville. www.ncmtnchamber.com • June 9-12 — Highlands Motoring Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • June 10 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • June 10 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • June 10 — Movies on Everett, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • June 10 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • June 10-12 — Victory Slingshot Rally in the Smokies, Maggie Valley. www.maggievalleyrallys.com • June 11 — 6th annual Appalachian Lifestyle Celebration, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • June 11 — Cherokee Voices Festival. www.visitcherokeenc.com • June 11 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • June 11 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • June 11 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • June 17 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • June 17 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • June 17 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • June 17 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • June 17 — Movies on Everett, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • June 17-July 3 — Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike (Weekends), Waynesville. www.harttheatre.com • June 17 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • June 18 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • June 18 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com

• June 18 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • June 18 — Front Street Arts & Crafts, Dillsboro. www.mountainlovers.com • June 18 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • June 18-19 — Plottfest, Waynesville . www.plottfest.org • June 18-19 — Highlands Village Square Arts & Crafts Show. www.highlandschamber.org • June 19 — Haywood Community Band Concert, Maggie Valley. www.haywoodcommunityband.org • June 19 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • Mid-June — Taste of Scotland Weekend, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • June 21-25 — Cherokee Summer Carnival. www.visitcherokeenc.com • June 24 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • June 24 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • June 24 — Lake Junaluska Singers Premiere Concert. www.lakejunaluska.com • June 24 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • June 24 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • June 24 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • June 24 — Mountain Street Dance, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • June 24 — Movies on Everett, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • June 24-25 — Arts & Crafts Drive About Tour. www.greatsmokies.com • June 24-25 — Tri-Five Reunion, Maggie Valley. www.surfboardpromotion.com • June 24-26 —Maggie Valley Swap Meet & Car Show. www.surfboardpromotion.com • June 25 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • June 25 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • June 25 — Singing in the Field, Waynesville. www.mountainjoyministries.com • June 25 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • June 25- 26 — Sapphire Valley Summer Arts & Crafts Show. www.mountainlovers.com • June 25-26 — Summertime Arts & Craft Show, Cullowhee. www.mountainlovers.com • June 26 — Champagne & Chopin Concert, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org

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• June 29 — Picnic Concert, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org

July • July 1-3 — 4th of July Powwow, Cherokee. www.visitcherokeenc.com • July 1-4 — Independence Day Celebrations, Lake Junaluska. www.lakejunaluska.com • July 1-4 — Singing in the Smokies, Bryson City. www.theinspirations.com • July 1 — Art After Dark, Waynesville. www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com • July 1 — Art Walk, Murphy. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • July 1 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • July 1 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • July 1 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • July 1 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • July 1 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • July 1 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 2 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 2-3 — NOC’s Sizzlin’ 4th of July, Bryson City. www.noc.com • July 2 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • July 2 — Balsam Range in Concert, Lake Junaluska. www.lakejunaluska.com • July 2 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • July 2 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • July 3-4 — Fourth of July Celebration, Fontana Village. www.fontanavillage.com • July 3 — Fourth of July Celebration, Glenville.

• July 3 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • July 4 — Stars & Strips Celebration, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • July 4 — Red White & Boom, Maggie Valley. www.maggievalley.org • July 4 — Fourth of July Celebration, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • July 4 — Fourth of July Celebration, Cashiers. www.cashiers411.com • July 4 — Fourth of July Celebration, Andrews. www.visitcherokeecountync.com • July 4 — Independence Day Celebration, Highlands. www.highlandsinfo.com • July 4 — Independence Day Fireworks, Murphy. www.visitcherokeecountync.com • July 4 — Independence Day Parade/Celebration, Hayesville. www.ncmtnchamber.com

WNCTravel

2016

Balsam Range performing at the Stecoah Valley Center.

• July 4 — 4th of July Parade/Fireworks Celebration, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • July 4 — 4th of July Fireworks Show, Cherokee. www.nc-cherokee.com • July 4 — Sapphire Valley Yankee Doodle Dandy Day. www.sapphirevalley.com • July 4 — Freedom Fest, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • July 4 — Rotary Club BBQ, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 5 — Canton Fourth of July Celebration. www.cantonnc.com • July 8 — Mountain Street Dance, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • July 8 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • July 8 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • July 8 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • July 8 — Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • July 8-31 — Jesus Christ Superstar (weekends), Waynesville. www.harttheatre.com • July 8 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 9 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands . www.highlandschamber.org • July 9-10 — Maggie Valley Summer Arts & Crafts Show. www.maggievalley.org • July 9 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • July 9 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • July 10 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • July 10 — Bubbles & BBQ, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 12-16 — Cashiers Plein Air Festival. www.cashiers411.com

• Mid-July — Festival on the Square, Hayesville. www.ncmtnchamber.com • July 15— Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • July 15 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • July 15 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • July 15 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • July 15-16 — C-10 Nationals Chevy/GMC Truck Show, Maggie Valley. www.surfboardpromotion.com • July 15-16 — Southeastern Gas & Petroleum Expo, Maggie Valley. www.surfboardpromotion.com • July 15-16 — Hillbilly Rods, Maggie Valley. www.surfboardpromotion.com • July 15 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 16 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 16 — Appalachian Heritage Festival, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • July 16 — Heritage Arts Summer Festival, Bryson City. ncheritageartsfestival.wordpress.com • July 16 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • July 16 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • July 16 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • July 17 — Haywood Community Band Concert, Maggie Valley. www.haywoodcommunityband.org • July 17 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • July 21-31 — North Carolina International Folk Festival, “Folkmoot USA”. www.folkmootusa.org • July 22 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com

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CALENDAR • July 22 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • July 22 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • July 22 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • July 22 — Mountain Street Dance, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • July 22 – Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org

• July 29 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • July 29 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • July 29 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 29-30 — Hillbilly Jam, Maggie Valley. www.hillbillywoodstock.com • July 30 — International Festival Day, Waynesville. www.folkmootusa.org • July 30 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • July 30 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com Blue Ridge Breakaway.

Donated photo

• July 22 — Folkmoot Parade of Nations, Waynesville. www.folkmootusa.org • July 22-23 — WNC BBQ Festival/Smokin’ in the Valley, Maggie Valley. www.maggievalley.org • July 22 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 23 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • July 23 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • July 23 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • July 24 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • July 27-31 — Highlands Road Gem Show, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • July 28-31 — 51st annual Macon County Gemboree, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • July 29 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • July 29 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • July 29 — Pickin’ In the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com

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• July 31 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org

August • Aug. 5 — Art After Dark, Waynesville. www.waynesvillegalleyassociation.com • Aug. 5 — Art Walk, Murphy. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • Aug. 5— Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • Aug. 5 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • Aug. 5 — Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. www.highlandschamber.org • Aug. 5 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • Aug. 5 — Mountain Street Dance, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • Aug. 5 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • Aug. 5-21 — All My Sons (weekends), Waynesville. www.harttheatre.org

• Aug. 5-6 — Lake Junaluska Singers in Concert. www.lakejunaluska.com • Aug. 5 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Aug. 6 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Aug. 6 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Aug. 6 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • Aug. 6 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • Aug. 6 — Downtown Dog Walk, Waynesville. www.sargeandfriends.org • Aug. 6-7 — Lake Logan Multisport Festival. www.gloryhoundevents.com • Early-Mid August — Sapphire Valley Fine Art Show. www.sapphirevalley.com • Aug. 12 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • Aug. 12 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • Aug. 12 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • Aug. 12-13 — 8th annual Mountain High BBQ Festival, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Aug. 12 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Aug. 13 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Aug. 13-18 — Cashiers Designer Showhouse. www.cashiers411.com • Aug. 13 — Blueberry Festival, Cherokee. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Aug. 13 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Aug. 13 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • Aug. 19 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • Aug. 19 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • Aug. 19 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • Aug. 19 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • Aug. 19-21 — Maggie Valley Summer Rally. www.maggievalley.org • Aug. 19 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Aug. 20 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Aug. 20 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Aug. 20 — Arts and Crafts Market, Dillsboro. www.mountainlovers.com • Aug. 20 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • Aug. 20 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com

www.WNCTravel.com

www.franklin-chamber.com

Franklin 51st Annual Macon County

July 28-31• Thurs-Sat: 10-5 • Sun: 11-4

Gold, Silver, Gem Stones, Minerals & More Robert C Carpenter Community Building 1288 Georgia Rd. Franklin, NC

Franklin’s Original Native Dig-Your-Own Gem Mine We have primitive camping and multi-day passes available. Now offering enriched buckets.

6961 Upper Burningtown Rd., Franklin

828.369.9742 MasonsMine.com

Open 9-5, March 1–Oct. 31, except Easter

Gold, Silver, Gem Stones, Minerals & More

Pro & Backyard Cooking Competition Fri. 11am-9pm

August 12 & 13, 2016

Sat. 10am-5pm

WAYNE PROFFITT AGRICULTURAL CENTER US 441 South • Home of Macon County Fair Grounds

FRI. & SAT. GRILLING DEMOS FRI. EVE & SAT. CAR SHOW

Adult Admission $5 • Children Under 12 Free • 2 Day Adult Admission $8 Great Tasting BBQ • Vendors • Crafters • Entertainment

Oct. 14-16• Fri-Sat: 10-5 • Sun: 11-4 Robert C Carpenter Community Building 1288 Georgia Rd. Franklin, NC

WNCTravel

2016

828-524-3161 • 888-368-2328 MountainHighBBQFestival.com 53

CALENDAR • Aug. 20 — Blue Ridge Breakaway. www.blueridgebreakaway.com • Aug. 20 — Waynesville Beer Fair. www.waynesvillebeer.com • Aug. 20 — 12th annual Franklin Area Folk Festival. www.franklinfolkfestival.com • Aug. 20-21 — Highlands Village Square Arts & Crafts Show. www.highlandschamber.org • Aug. 21 — Main Street Mile, Waynesville. www.waynesvillemainstreetmile.com • Aug. 21 — Haywood Community Band Concert, Maggie Valley. www.haywoodcommunityband.org • Aug. 25-30 — Haywood County Fair, Lake Junaluska. www.haywoodcountyfairgrounds.org • Aug. 26 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • Aug. 26 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • Aug. 26-Sept. 11 — One Slight Hitch (weekends), Waynesville. www.harttheatre.org • Aug. 26 — Pickin’ in the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com • Aug. 26 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • Aug. 26 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org

• Aug. 27 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Aug. 27 — Qualla Arts & Crafts Open Air Indian Market, Cherokee. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Aug. 27 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Aug. 27 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com

September • Sept. 2 — Concerts on the Square, Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org • Sept. 2-3 — 46th annual Smoky Mountain Folk Festival, Lake Junaluska. www.smokymountainfolkfestival.com • Sept. 2-3 — Seven Clans Rodeo, Cherokee. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Sept. 2-5 — Labor Day Weekend Celebration, Fontana Village. www.fontanavillage.com • Sept. 2 — Art After Dark, Waynesville. www.waynesvillegalleyassociation.com • Sept. 2 — Art Walk, Murphy. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • Sept. 2 — Concerts on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • Sept. 2 — Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com • Sept. 2 — Pickin’ In the Park, Canton. www.cantonnc.com

• Sept. 2 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Sept. 3 — Saturdays on Pine, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Sept. 3 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Sept. 3 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • Sept. 3 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • Sept. 3-4 — Labor Day Craft Show, Maggie Valley. www.maggievalley.org • Sept. 3-5 — 110th annual Canton Labor Day Festival. www.cantonlaborday.com • Labor Day Weekend — Cashiers Valley Arts & Crafts Show. www.cashiersrotary.org • Sept. 5 — 110th annual Canton Labor Day Parade.

• Sept. 5 — Cashiers Rotary Arts & Crafts Festival. www.cashiers411.com • Early September — Cherokee BBQ & Bluegrass Throwdown. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Sept. 9 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Sept. 10 — Dazzling Dahlia Festival, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Sept. 10 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Sept. 10 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com

Private Party Rooms Available

Catering

Daily Drink Specials at Both Locations All You Can Eat Ribs Every Thursday Live Music in Canton on Tuesdays from 7-9 PM

1941 Champion Dr. • Canton

895 Russ Ave. • Waynesville

828-646-3750

828-452-5822

BOTH LOCATIONS: Sunday–Thursday

54

11 a.m.–10 p.m. • Friday & Saturday 11 a.m.–11 p.m. www.WNCTravel.com

• Sept. 14-17 — Macon County Fair, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Sept. 16 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Sept. 16-Oct. 15 —Into the Woods (weekends). www.harttheatre.com • Sept. 16-17 — VW’s in the Valley, Maggie Valley. www.vwaircooledassociation.com • Sept. 17 — Block Party. Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • Sept. 17 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Sept. 17 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • Sept. 17 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • Sept. 17 — Jackson County Green Energy Park Youth Arts Festival, Dillsboro. www.jcgep.org • Sept. 18 — Haywood Community Band Concert, Maggie Valley. www.haywoodcommunityband.org • Sept. 23 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Sept. 23-24 — NOC Guest Appreciation Festival, Bryson City. www.noc.com • Sept. 23-25 — Maggie Valley Swap Meet & Car Show. www.surfboardpromotion.com • Sept. 23-25 — Southeastern Gas & Petroleum Expo, Maggie Valley. www.surfboardpromotion.com • Sept. 23-25 — Moonshine Valley F100, Maggie Valley. www.surfboardpromotion.com • Sept. 24 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Sept. 24 — Mountain Heritage Day, Cullowhee. www.wcu.edu • Sept. 24 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • Sept. 30 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Sept. 30-Oct. 1 — Lake Junaluska Singers in Concert. www.lakejunaluska.com • Sept. 30-Oct. 1 — Cherokee Harvest Half Marathon & 5K. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Sept. 30-Oct. 2 —Harvest Festival, Lake Junaluska. www.lakejunaluska.com

October • Oct. 1-2 — Fall Festival, Brasstown. www.folkschool.org • Oct. 1 — Colorfest, Dillsboro. www.mountainlovers.com • Oct. 1 — Taste of Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com • Oct. 1 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Oct. 1 — 43rd annual Shelby/Mustang Ford Meet, Maggie Valley. www.negeorgiamustangclub.org • Oct. 1 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • Oct. 1 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com

WNCTravel

2016

th 46 Annual

Sept. 2-3, 2016 Open Tent Show 5-6:30 p.m.

Main Stage Indoor Show 6:30-11 p.m.

Festival Director: Joe Sam Queen | 828-452-1688

www.smokymountainfolkfestival.com

< < < < < < < < < < < < < < < < < < < <

Paid for in part by the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority.

1-800-334-9036 • www.visitncsmokies.com

THE FOLK SCHOOL CHANGES YOU.

Engaging hands and hearts since 1925. Come enjoy making crafts and good friends on 300 natural, scenic acres in western North Carolina.

JOHN C. CAMPBELL FOLK SCHOOL folkschool.org BRASSTOWN

1-800-FOLK-SCH NORTH CAROLINA

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > 55

CALENDAR • Oct. 2-3 — Oktoberfest, Maggie Valley. www.maggievalleyoktoberfest.com • Oct. 4-8 — Cherokee Indian Fair. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Early October — Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Show. www.sapphirevalley.com • Early October — Fall Festival, Brasstown. www.folkschool.org • Oct 6-8 — High Country Quilt Show, Maggie Valley. www.maggievalley.org • Oct. 6-8 — Autumn Leaves Craft Show, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Oct. 7 — Art After Dark, Waynesville. www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com • Oct. 7 — Art Walk, Murphy. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • Oct. 7 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Oct. 7-9 — Cashiers Leaf Festival. www.cashiers411.com • Oct. 8 — 2nd annual Smoky Mountain Fly Fishing Festival, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Oct. 8 — Highlands Own Arts & Crafts Show. www.highlandschamber.org • Oct. 8 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Oct. 8 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com • Oct. 8 — Bethel 1/2 Marathon & 5K, Canton. www.bethelrural.org • Oct. 8 — 33rd Church Street Art & Craft Show, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • Oct. 8 — Fall Festival at Mason Mountain Mine, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Oct. 8-9 — BRACA Autumn Leaves Craft Show, Lake Junaluska. www.bracaorg.com • Oct. 14 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Oct. 14-15 — Harvest Festival, Robbinsville. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com • Oct. 14-16 — Leaf Lookers Gemboree, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Oct. 15 — 27th Annual Apple Harvest Festival, Waynesville. www.haywoodapplefest.com • Oct. 15 — Harvest Festival, Robbinsville. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com • Oct. 15 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Oct. 15 — Anything Pumpkin Celebration, Murphy. www.ncmtnchamber.com • Oct. 15 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • Oct. 15 — 26th annual Chili Cook Off & Fall Festival, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Oct. 15 — Pickin’ on the Square, Franklin. www.franklinnc.com

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WNC Pottery Festival.

• Oct. 15-16 — Punkin Chunkin Celebration, Murphy. www.ncmtnchamber.com • Oct. 15-16 — BRACA Autumn Leaves Craft Show, Lake Junaluska. www.bracaorg.com • Oct. 15-16 —Maggie Valley Annual Fall Arts & Craft Show. www.maggievalley.org • Oct. 15-16 — Cherokee County Mountain Crafters Festival, Murphy. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • Oct. 16 — Haywood Community Band Concert, Maggie Valley. www.haywoodcommunityband.org • Oct. 16-17 — Lake Junaluska Singers Fall Concert. www.lakejunaluska.com/singers • Oct. 21 — Friday Night Live, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Oct. 21-23 — Cherokee County Fair, Murphy. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • Oct. 21-30 — The Mystery of Irma Vep (Weekends), Waynesville. www.harttheatre.org • Oct. 22 — 20th annual PumpkinFest, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Oct. 22 — NOCtoberfest, Bryson City. www.noc.com • Oct. 22 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Oct. 29 — Concerts at the Depot, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Oct. 31 — Treats on the Street, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com

• Oct. 31 — All Hallows Eve Celebration, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Oct. 31 — Trunk or Treat, Lake Junaluska. www.haywoodfairgrounds.org • Oct. 31 — Downtown Trick or Treat, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Late October — Catch the Spirit of Appalachia: Celebration of the Arts, Bryson City. www.mountainlovers.com • Late October — Fall Festival, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. www.franklin-chamber.com • Late October — Hauntober Weekend, Fontana Village Resort. www.fontanavillage.com • Late October — Hiker Jam Octoberfest, Cashiers. www.hikerjam.ticketleap.com

November • Early November — Cheoah Storytelling Festival, Robbinsville. www.townofrobbinsville.com • Early November — Mountain Shapes & Colors, Bryson City. www.greatsmokies.com • Nov. 4-5 — Cruise The Smokies Rod Run, Cherokee. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Nov. 4 — Art After Dark, Waynesville. www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com • Nov. 5 — WNC Pottery Festival, Dillsboro. www.wncpotteryfestival.com

www.WNCTravel.com

Additional Resources For more information about WNC, these websites and organizations will have the most up-to-date information: • Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce 36 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 828.258.6101 • www.ashevillechamber.org • Cashiers Chamber of Commerce 202 Highway 64 West, Cashiers, NC 28717 828.743.5191 • www.cashiersareachamber.com • Cherokee Chamber of Commerce 516 Tsali Road (US Hwy 441), Cherokee, NC 28719, 877.433.6700 www.cherokeesmokies.com • Cherokee Visitor Center PO Box 460, Cherokee, NC 28719 828.497.9195 • www.cherokee-nc.com

• Nov. 10-13 — 10th annual Culinary Weekend, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Nov. 11 — Veterans Day Parade, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Nov. 11 — Veteran’s Day Celebration, Cherokee. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Nov. 19 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • Nov. 25-26 — Stecoah Artisans Drive About Tour, Robbinsville. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com • Nov. 25-26 — Hard Candy Christmas Arts & Crafts Show, Cullowhee. www.mountainlovers.com • Nov. 26 — Bryson City Spirit of Christmas. www.greatsmokies.com • Nov. 26 — Winter Wonderland Celebration, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Nov. 26 — Tree Lighting Ceremony, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Nov. 27 — Christmas Parade, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve — Winter Fest, Robbinsville. www.townofrobbinsville.com • Thanksgiving to New Year’s — Cashiers Festival of Trees. www.cashiers411.com

December • Month of December — Christmas in the Smokies, Fontana Village Resort. www.fontanavillage.com • Early December — Christmas Parade, Brasstown. www.ncmtnchamber.com

WNCTravel

2016

• Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce 805 Highway 64 West, Murphy, NC 28906 828.837.2242 www.cherokeecountychamber.com • Clay County Chamber of Commerce 388 Highway 64 Business, Hayesville, NC 28904 828.389.3704 www.claycounty-nc-chamber.com • Downtown Waynesville Association PO Box 1409, Waynesville, NC 28786 828.456.3517 • www.downtownwaynesville.com • Franklin Chamber of Commerce 425 Porter St., Franklin, NC 28734 828.524.3161 • www.franklin-chamber.com • Graham County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1206, Robbinsville, NC 28771 828.479.3790 • www.grahamchamber.com • Great Smoky Mountains National Park 107 Park Headquarters Rd., Gatlinburg, TN 37738 865.436.1200 • www.nps/gov.grsm

• Haywood County Chamber of Commerce 28 Walnut St., Waynesville, NC 28786 828.456.3021 • www.haywood-nc.com • Haywood County Tourism Development Authority 1110 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 828.944.0761 • www.visitncsmokies.com • Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 269 Oak Street, Highlands, NC 28741 828.526.2112 • www.highlandschamber.org • Jackson County Chamber of Commerce 773 W. Main St., Sylva, NC 28779 828.586.2155 • www.mountainlovers.com • Maggie Valley Area Visitors Bureau PO Box 279, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 828.926.1686 • www.maggievalley.org • Swain County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 509, Bryson City, NC 28713 828.488.3681 • www.greatsmokies.com

• Early December — Cherokee Christmas Bazaars. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Early December — Lighting of the Square, Hayesville. www.ncmtnchamber.com • Dec. 1-31 —All through the Town, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • Dec. 1 — Canton Christmas Parade. cantonnc.com • Dec. 2 — Art After Dark, Waynesville. www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com • Dec. 2 — Murphy Hometown Christmas Celebration. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • Dec. 2-3 — Cherokee Lights & Legends Christmas. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Dec. 2-5 — Holly Days, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • Dec. 3 — Christmas Arts & Crafts Show, Robbinsville. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com • Dec. 3 — Murphy Hometown Christmas Parade. www.cherokeecountychamber.com • Dec. 3 — Olde Mountain Christmas Parade, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org • Dec. 3 — Winter Wonderland Celebration, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com • Dec. 3 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • Dec. 3 — Sylva Christmas Parade. www.mountainlovers.com • Dec. 3 — 42nd annual Bryson City Christmas Parade. www.greatsmokies.com • Dec. 4-5 — Lights & Luminaries, Dillsboro. www.mountainlovers.com

• Dec. 5 — Waynesville Christmas Parade. www.downtownwaynesville.com • Dec. 9-10 — Lake Junaluska Singers in Concert. www.lakejunaluska.com • Dec. 9-10 — Cherokee Lights & Legends Christmas. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Dec. 9-11 — Appalachian Christmas, Lake Junaluska. www.lakejunaluska.com • Dec. 10 — Cherokee Christmas Parade. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Dec. 10 — A Night Before Christmas, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • Dec. 10 — 42nd annual Cashiers Christmas Parade. www.cashiers411.com • Dec. 11-12 — Lights & Luminaries, Dillsboro. www.mountainlovers.com • Dec. 13-24 —Twelve Days of Christmas, Waynesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com • Dec. 16-17 — Cherokee Lights & Legends Christmas. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Dec. 17 — Back Porch Old Time Music Jam, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com • Dec. 30-31 — Cherokee Lights & Legends Christmas. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Dec. 31 — 23rd annual Possum Drop, Brasstown. www.ncmtnchamber.com • Dec. 31 — New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Cherokee. www.visitcherokeenc.com • Dec. 31 — New Year’s Eve Reception & Gala, Bryson City. www.gsmr.com

57

W

58

www.WNCTravel.com

WE SERVICE ALL MOTORCYCLES Call for an appointment

We carry a full line of apparel, accessories, and bike parts

Scan QR code for GPS location

Exit 100 off 74

82 Locust Drive, Waynesville NC 828.452.7276

View WNCTravel our current2016 inventory at

www.smsh.co

59

Since 1958

Gems

Largest & Finest Jewelry, Gem & Mineral shop in the Southeast!

World Class Museum

Minerals

www.RubyCity.com

14k, sterling, jewelry, mountings & cut stones. Tumblers, lapidary equipment & supplies.

Cutting, mounting, setting sizing, and repair on site.

Children’s jewelry by Kiddie KraftTM as well as a full line of birthstone rings earrings & pendant sets.

Healing stones and rare & collector gems, available in rough, polished, and set in designer jewelry.

Franklin's only authorized Endless Jewelry store dealer.

Tues-Sat 10-5 Closed Sun & Mon 60

800.821.RUBY • 828.524.3967 www.rubycity.com • gems@Rubycity.com

130 East Main Street Franklin At the top of Town Hill in downtown www.WNCTravel.com