Celebrate the Seasons in Ellijay: Festivals for Every Taste and Interest

Mar 20, 2026 | Shopping

Ellijay, Georgia, is a year-round hub of community spirit, creativity, and celebration, offering festivals that bring people together for fun, food, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you love arts and crafts, fall traditions, pets, bacon, or family-friendly entertainment, Ellijay has something for everyone. Here’s a look at the top festivals to plan for in 2026.

Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival

Fiber enthusiasts will love the Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival, a celebration of creativity, tradition, and community in the heart of the North Georgia Mountains. Attendees can connect, share, shop, and learn about knitting, crocheting, embroidery, quilting, and other fiber arts.

The festival draws artisans and hobbyists of all skill levels, offering vendor booths with specialty materials, hands-on workshops, and a welcoming environment to celebrate the art of making. 2026 promises to be a particularly special year for this annual gathering of fiber lovers.

Ellijay Bacon Fest – A Flavor-Packed Fundraiser

If you love bacon and community fun, the 5th Annual Ellijay Bacon Fest is not to be missed! Enjoy mouthwatering bacon-themed dishes, live music, games, and a bacon eating contest, all while supporting the Gilmer Community Food Pantry.

This family-friendly festival combines delicious food with community spirit, making it a perfect event for food lovers of all ages. Come hungry, bring friends, and indulge in the savory fun—all for a great cause!

Georgia Apple Festival – A 55-Year Tradition

Kick off the fall season at the Georgia Apple Festival, one of North Georgia’s most beloved annual events. Celebrating its 55th year, the festival features over 250 vendors offering the South’s finest handmade crafts, festival foods, and delicious apple-themed treats.

While pets aren’t allowed on the main fairgrounds, service dogs are welcome. Admission is $10, with children under 12 admitted free, making it a family-friendly fall outing.

Apple Arts Festival – Downtown Ellijay

Running alongside the Georgia Apple Festival, the Apple Arts Festival takes place in Downtown Ellijay on the second and third weekends of October. This festival is pet-friendly, accessible, and free, offering a vibrant mix of arts & crafts vendors, food stalls, and festive downtown shopping.

After browsing unique vendor booths, visitors can explore local boutiques, antique shops, tasting rooms, coffee shops, and specialty bakeries, making it a perfect full-day outing for families, friends, and pets alike.

Merry Mountain Town Festival – Start the Holidays Early

Ring in the holiday season at the Merry Mountain Town Festival, returning for its second annual celebration on Friday, November 27th, 2026, in Downtown Ellijay. Expect holiday lights, music, shopping, and family-friendly fun, creating a festive atmosphere to kick off the holidays in style.

Why Visit Ellijay’s Festivals?

Ellijay’s festivals showcase the best of North Georgia’s community and culture, offering something for everyone:

Unique shopping and artisan experiences (from crafts to fiber arts)

Delicious foods, from apples to bacon

Family-friendly and pet-friendly activities

Opportunities to connect with the community and enjoy seasonal celebrations

Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, these events make Ellijay the perfect destination for seasonal fun, creative inspiration, and unforgettable memories.

Plan your calendar, bring family and pets where allowed, and experience the crafts, culture, food, and community spirit that make Ellijay’s festivals truly special!

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