Explore Towns County This Fall: Your Ultimate Guide to 2024 Events
Towns County offers a vibrant mix of fall festivals, concerts, and family-friendly activities that unite the community. With the crisp air, gorgeous fall foliage, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, there’s no better place to enjoy the season than in Hiawassee.
Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, this guide covers the must-attend events happening in Towns County in the Fall of 2024. From carnival rides and crafts to live music and barbecue, these events are perfect for making lasting fall memories. Let’s dive in.
Georgia Mountain Fall Festival (October 11-13 and October 17-19)
Prepare for two weekends filled with excitement at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! The annual Georgia Mountain Fall Festival offers a little something for everyone.
Step back in time with a visit to Pioneer Village, where you can witness traditional Appalachian life firsthand through engaging demonstrations like blacksmithing, moonshine-making, and quilting. Pioneer Village is a replica of how the ole mountain towns used to be. A mercantile store with products and goods that only your grandmother might recognize. An old, one-room schoolhouse, a log home with furnishings just like it was in the 1800s, a smokehouse, barn, and corn crib are just like it was then. “Old Ways” Demonstrations will take you back to the “old ways” as local folks show how “moonshine” was made…corn milling…shake making… cider squeezing…pork skin frying…quilting… blacksmithing…soap & hominy making, and more!
For thrill-seekers, the carnival rides offer hours of excitement. At the same time, arts and crafts booths allow visitors to shop for unique, locally-made treasures. But the real highlight? Live country music performances featuring big names like Dylan Scott, Joe Nichols, Tracy Lawrence, and Three Dog Night ensure you’ll tap your toes and sing along throughout the festival.
Carnival and Concert Schedules for Georgia Mountain Fall Festival
Be sure to plan your visit and mark your calendar around these special times:
- Thursday, October 10th:
- 5:00 PM: Carnival Rides Open for a thrilling preview night
- Friday, October 11th:
- 11:00 AM: Pioneer Village, Arts and Crafts, & Exhibit Hall Open
- 5:00 PM: Carnival Rides Open
- 7:00 PM: Dylan Scott Concert
- Saturday, October 12th:
- 10:00 AM: Pioneer Village, Arts and Crafts, & Exhibit Hall Open
- 12:00 PM: Carnival Rides Open
- 7:00 PM: Joe Nichols Concert
- Sunday, October 13th:
- 10:00 AM: Pioneer Village, Arts and Crafts, & Exhibit Hall Open
- 11:00 AM: Interfaith Worship Service
- 1:00 PM: Carnival Rides Open
- 2:00 PM: Anthem Edition, LeFevre Quartet, & Gold City Concert
- Thursday, October 17th (Military & First Responder Appreciation Day):
- 11:00 AM: Pioneer Village, Arts and Crafts, & Exhibit Hall Open
- 7:00 PM: Tracy Lawrence & The Malpass Brothers Concert
- Friday, October 18th:
- 11:00 AM: Pioneer Village, Arts and Crafts, & Exhibit Hall Open
- 7:00 PM: Three Dog Night Concert
- Saturday, October 19th:
- 10:00 AM: Pioneer Village, Arts and Crafts, & Exhibit Hall Open
- 7:00 PM: Nate Smith Concert
Carnival Costs and Considerations
- Purchase Tickets and Wristbands at Midway
- Preview Night (Thurs, October 10th): 5 PM-close (Tickets Only)
- Each ride has different height requirements
Unlimited Wristbands
- Friday: 5 PM-11 PM (Unlimited Ride Wristband – $45)
- Saturday: 12 PM-11 PM (Unlimited Ride Wristband – $30)
- Sunday: 1 PM-11 PM (Unlimited Ride Wristband – $30)
Individual Ride Tickets (each ride “costs” 3-5 tickets)
- Tickets: $1.25 each | 20 for $20 | 45 for $40
From live music and carnival rides to the smell of barbecue, fall festivals in Towns County will surely delight visitors of all ages. Plan your weekends, and don’t miss out on these incredible events!
Appalachian Brew & Music Festival (October 26th)
Nothing says fall like delicious Southern food and craft beer! The Appalachian Brew, Que, and Stew Festival is a one-day celebration of everything we love about Southern culture. With craft brews from across the region, mouth-watering barbecue, and hearty stews, your taste buds are in for a treat. As you savor the flavors, enjoy the sounds of live Appalachian and Americana music, filling the air and setting the perfect laid-back vibe for the day.
The event also features arts and crafts booths, making it the perfect stop for families looking to spend a relaxing Saturday afternoon together. Mark your calendars and get ready for some serious Southern hospitality!
Tickets:
$55 at the gate
$50 in advance online
“Fangtastic” Halloween at the Fairgrounds (October 31st)
Calling all little witches, superheroes, minions, and mummies—get ready for a spine-tingling, candy-filled adventure at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! The Towns County Commissioners Office and The Lake Chatuge Chamber of Commerce are rolling out the orange carpet for the ultimate Halloween bash, and you’re invited to be part of the spooky spectacle. Grab your most creative costumes, dust off your broomsticks, and bring the whole family out for an evening of trick-or-treating, carnival games, and eerie fun. The Chamber will be doing a costume contest that is open to all ages with prizes awarded, and will also be doing train rides through the fairgrounds. Whether you’re dressing up as a classic ghost or a trendy character, this is your chance to go all out and dazzle the crowd with your Halloween flair.
Trick-or-Treating Extravaganza
Kick off the night by collecting treats from local businesses that have come together to create a safe and festive trick-or-treating experience. Watch as your little goblins and fairies fill their bags with goodies while navigating a maze of delightfully decorated booths. Each station offers a new surprise, from candy galore to fun games and prizes—so visit them all!
Family-Friendly Fun in a Safe Environment
“Halloween at the Fairgrounds” is about enjoying the spooky season in a safe, friendly atmosphere. The Fairgrounds will be decked out with festive decorations, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening under the stars. Whether you’re there to trick-or-treat, play games, or soak in the Halloween vibes, you will have a fangtastic time.
Tickets:
Free Admission
Live Music and Concerts at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Towns County: A Perfect Fall Experience
As the leaves turn golden and the crisp mountain air rolls in, there’s no better way to enjoy fall in Towns County than by experiencing live music under the stars or cozying up in Anderson Music Hall.
The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds sets the stage for unforgettable performances, blending cool fall evenings with the warm tones of country, Americana, and classic hits.
Hamilton Gardens Acoustic Sunset Series
Grace Pettis (Thursday, October 3rd, 2024, at 6:00 PM)
Start your fall concert season with a touch of folk music at Hamilton Gardens. Grace Pettis, daughter of renowned Alabama songwriter Pierce Pettis, brings soulful melodies and storytelling lyrics, making this an evening of peaceful acoustic tunes as the sun sets behind the mountains. Bring a blanket, a picnic, and your favorite fall drink, and enjoy the crisp evening as her soothing voice fills the air.
Wyatt Espalin (Thursday, October 10th, 2024, at 6:00 PM)
Acoustic Sunsets host Wyatt Espalin wraps up the series with a surprise-filled evening of heartwarming tunes. Espalin, known for his storytelling lyrics and passion for mountain music, provides the perfect finale to another successful season of acoustic performances at Hamilton Gardens. It’s a can’t-miss show for fans of intimate, outdoor concerts with beautiful mountain backdrops.
Neil Diamond Tribute (Saturday, October 5th, 2024, at 7:00 PM)
What better way to kick off the month than with a tribute to the iconic Neil Diamond? Sing along to timeless classics like “Sweet Caroline” and “America” as tribute artists bring his legendary hits to life at Anderson Music Hall. This night is guaranteed to bring back memories and create new ones as fans of all ages gather to celebrate the music of one of the greatest entertainers ever.
Country Concert Series
Joe Nichols (Saturday, October 12th, 2024, at 7:00 PM)
Prepare for an evening of classic country charm as Joe Nichols takes the stage. With hits like “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off” and “Yeah,” Nichols brings his smooth, traditional country sound to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Settle in for a night of toe-tapping tunes, heartwarming ballads, and a perfect backdrop of the rolling North Georgia hills.
Anthem Edition, LeFevre Quartet, & Gold City (Sunday, October 13th, 2024, at 2:00 PM)
For gospel and contemporary Christian music fans, this performance brings together three powerhouse acts for an uplifting afternoon of music and praise. Anthem Edition, LeFevre Quartet, and Gold City will fill the hall with inspiring harmonies and messages of hope—an experience not to be missed.
Tracy Lawrence & The Malpass Brothers (Thursday, October 17th, 2024, at 7:00 PM)
Country music legends Tracy Lawrence and The Malpass Brothers will light up the night with their signature blend of honky-tonk hits and soulful country melodies. Known for timeless favorites like “Time Marches On” and “Sticks and Stones,” Lawrence brings energy and authenticity to the stage. The Malpass Brothers add a nostalgic touch with their throwback style, making this a night to remember for fans of classic and contemporary country alike.
Nate Smith (Saturday, October 19th, 2024, at 7:00 PM)
Nashville sensation Nate Smith brings his heartfelt lyrics and soaring vocals to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds for a night of country music with soul. Smith is quickly becoming a country favorite, and his breakout hit “Whiskey on You” is making waves in the charts. Prepare for an evening filled with raw emotion, storytelling, and a unique sound that is taking country music by storm.
Other Can’t-Miss Fall Performances
Three Dog Night (Friday, October 18th, 2024, at 7:00 PM)
Step back into the golden age of rock and roll with Three Dog Night! With hits like “Joy to the World” and “Mama Told Me Not to Come,” this legendary band will bring the spirit of the ’70s alive in Hiawassee. Their unique blend of rock, pop, and soul will surely make the audience sing along to every word.
Sara Evans (Friday, October 25th, 2024, at 7:00 PM)
Country music star Sara Evans will grace the stage at Anderson Music Hall with her powerhouse vocals and hits like “A Little Bit Stronger” and “Born to Fly.” Known for her soulful voice and deeply relatable lyrics, Evans promises a show that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling uplifted.
Clay Walker Live (Friday, November 8th, 2024, at 7:00 PM)
As the fall season draws close, end it on a high note with the one and only Clay Walker. With a career spanning over two decades and hits like “She Won’t Be Lonely Long” and “This Woman and This Man,” Walker’s smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics are the perfect way to wrap up the concert season. Gather with friends and family for this unforgettable performance. Let the music carry you into the holiday season with joy and nostalgia.
There’s something special about live music in the fall—the crisp air, the warm atmosphere, and the energy of a crowd coming together to celebrate. Whether you’re a country music lover, a classic rock fan, or just someone looking for a good time, the concert lineup at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds is sure to have something that hits all the right notes.
Holiday Preparations and Seasonal Celebrations in Towns County
Light Up the Nite 5K (November 23 at 5 PM)
Kick off the holiday season with the Light Up the Nite 5K Fun Run/Walk along the illuminated shores of Lake Chatuge. Open to all runners and walkers, this festive event is a perfect way to get moving and enjoy some holiday spirit. The course features rolling hills, both on paved and off-road terrain, providing a fun challenge in a magical setting.
Participants who register by October 6, 2024, will receive a festive race t-shirt and a commemorative finisher ornament. Awards will be given to the top finishers in several categories, including Male, Female, Master’s (65+), and Child (10 and under), as well as a special prize for the most creative holiday attire!
Proceeds benefit the Remnant Youth program, helping support local youth initiatives. Don’t miss this chance to run, walk, and make a difference in the community!
Mountain Country Christmas in Lights (Starting November 28)
Experience the joy of the holidays at the Mountain Country Christmas in Lights, a spectacular holiday display at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. From spectacular light shows to festive Christmas music, arts and crafts, and even a visit from Santa Claus, this event is perfect for the whole family.
The Fairgrounds will be open on select nights from November 28 to December 23, 2024, transforming into a winter wonderland along the shores of Lake Chatuge. Enjoy a night out with loved ones, take festive photos, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.
Dates:
- November 28 – December 7: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (6 PM – 9 PM)
- December 12 – December 23: Open every night (6 PM – 9 PM)
Special Events:
- Towns County Residents Night: December 5 (6 PM – 9 PM)
- Nursing Home Drive-Thru: December 10 (5:30 PM – 8:30 PM)
Ticket Info:
- Admission: $9 per person
- Children 12 and under: FREE
Get ready for a holiday season filled with lights, laughter, and unforgettable memories in Towns County!
Towns County: The Place to Hang Out This Fall
With such a diverse lineup of events, Towns County is the place to be this fall. There’s something for everyone, from thrilling concerts to cozy fall festivals and festive holiday fun. Whether making memories with family or enjoying a weekend getaway with friends, Towns County in the Fall offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, music, and community spirit.