The Best North Georgia Fall Events: Apple Picking, Festivals, and More

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, North Georgia transforms into a picturesque autumn wonderland. From apple picking in Ellijay to exploring charming mountain towns like Blue Ridge and Blairsville, fall is the perfect time to experience all that this beautiful region has to offer. Here’s your guide to the most popular fall events in North Georgia—whether you’re in the mood for apple picking, scenic drives, or fall festivals, these spots will make your autumn unforgettable.

1. Apple Picking at Mercier Orchards, Blue Ridge

Why You Should Go: Mercier Orchards is one of the most iconic apple-picking destinations in North Georgia, known for its stunning mountain views, family-friendly atmosphere, and, of course, delicious apples. This fourth-generation family farm offers a wide variety of apples to pick straight from the tree.

Highlights:

• Pick your own apples from a wide selection of varieties, including Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Pink Lady.
• Explore the on-site market featuring fresh-baked pies, cider donuts, jams, and other local goodies.
• Enjoy a hard cider tasting for the adults, crafted right on the farm.

Tip: Apple picking is a popular activity, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds.

2. Georgia Apple Festival, Ellijay

When: October 12-13 & October 19-20, 2024
Where: Ellijay, GA
Why You Should Go: Known as the apple capital of Georgia, Ellijay hosts the annual Georgia Apple Festival, celebrating all things apple. This lively event features over 300 vendors showcasing arts and crafts, delicious food, and live entertainment.

Highlights:

• Taste freshly picked apples and apple-inspired treats like fried apple pies, caramel apples, and apple cider.
• Browse a variety of handcrafted items from local artisans, perfect for early holiday shopping.
• Enjoy the parade, car show, and antique tractor displays that add extra charm to this small-town festival.

Tip: Parking can be challenging, so take advantage of the free shuttles from downtown Ellijay.

3. B.J. Reece Orchards, Ellijay

Why You Should Go: Another top spot for apple picking, B.J. Reece Orchards offers a variety of family-friendly activities along with their u-pick apple experience. This orchard is great for making memories with kids, thanks to the added attractions like petting zoos and farm games.

Highlights:

• Pick your own apples and enjoy other fall activities, including a corn maze, hayrides, and cow milking.
• Visit the country bakery for apple fritters, fried pies, and fresh apple cider.
• For the thrill-seekers, try the apple cannon for a fun and unique experience.

Tip: Check their website for a schedule of events and apple varieties available each week.

4. Jasper’s Marble Festival

When: October 5-6, 2024
Where: Lee Newton Park, Jasper, GA
Why You Should Go: Known as the "First Mountain City," Jasper hosts the Marble Festival to celebrate its rich history and stunning natural resources. This festival offers a unique mix of arts, crafts, and tours of local marble quarries that are usually closed to the public.

Highlights:

• Enjoy local arts and crafts, live music, and delicious festival foods.
• Take a guided tour of the marble quarries and learn about Jasper’s marble heritage.
• Explore the local downtown area filled with quaint shops and cafes.

Tip: Quarry tours are first-come, first-served, so get your tickets early in the day.

5. Blairsville Sorghum Festival

When: October 12-13 & October 19-20, 2024
Where: Meeks Park, Blairsville, GA
Why You Should Go: For a taste of true Southern tradition, the Blairsville Sorghum Festival is a must. This festival celebrates the region’s rich history of sorghum syrup production with live demonstrations, games, and plenty of Southern charm.

Highlights:

• Watch live sorghum syrup-making demonstrations using traditional methods.
• Enjoy old-fashioned games like pole climbing, log sawing, and a biscuit-eating contest.
• Listen to live bluegrass music while sampling sorghum-based treats.

Tip: This is a family-friendly event with lots of activities for kids, so bring the whole family for a day of fun.

6. Blue Ridge Mountain Arts & Crafts Festival

When: October 12, 2024
Where: Blue Ridge, GA
Why You Should Go: This festival is the perfect place to soak up the small-town charm of Blue Ridge while enjoying local arts, crafts, and live music. Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, this event is a great way to experience the beauty of the season.

Highlights:

• Browse handcrafted goods from local artists, including pottery, jewelry, and woodwork.
• Enjoy live music performances and local food vendors serving up delicious fall flavors.
• Take in the stunning fall foliage and explore the nearby shops and restaurants in downtown Blue Ridge.

Tip: Plan to stay for the weekend and explore the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway or nearby hiking trails.

Tips for Enjoying North Georgia’s Fall Events:

• Dress in Layers: Fall weather in the mountains can be cool in the morning and warm in the afternoon. Dressing in layers will keep you comfortable all day.
• Check Event Schedules: Some events have specific activities on certain days, so check the schedules in advance to make sure you don’t miss your favorite attractions.
• Bring Cash: While many vendors accept cards, having cash on hand can make purchases quicker and easier.

Fall in North Georgia is a time of vibrant colors, crisp mountain air, and abundant local events that celebrate the season. Whether you’re picking apples in Ellijay, exploring charming festivals, or simply enjoying a scenic drive through the mountains, there’s no better way to experience the beauty of autumn in the South. Grab your friends and family, hit the road, and savor all that this beautiful region has to offer!

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