JUNE
June 3-6 "SAINTS & SHRIMP" SOUTHERN STYLE Features two long time traditional festivals and a boat parade. St. Paul's Seafood Festival offers visitors freshly cooked food seafood, live music, carnival rides, and arts and crafts. Blessing of the Fleet/Fais Do Do offers visitors an arts and crafts fair along with a boat parade where decorated boats parade for the opening of the shrimping season. Gulf Coast, Miss. 228/896-6699
Jun. 3-13 MS COAST COLISEUM SUMMER FAIR Rides and shows, water flume, Pirates of the Caribbean High Dive Show, Ice Carving Competition, music, dancing in the sand, karaoke, petting zoo, pig races, and tons of seafood. Biloxi, Miss. 228/594-3700. mscoastcoliseum.com.
June 4-26 "THE "MIRACLE WORKER" Acted on the grounds of the Helen Keller Home, this 49th production spellbinds audiences in this thoughtful re-enactment of the Helen Keller story. Tuscumbia, Ala. 800/344-0783. colbertcountytourism.org.
June 5 SWEETGRASS CULTURAL ARTS FESTIAL This fest zeroes in on the rich Gullah Geechee cultural heritage and provides a showcase of sweetgrass baskets in the Lowcountry. Enjoy gospel songs, praise dance, storytelling, drummers and a waterslide. Mount Pleasant, S.C. 843/856-9732. sweetgrassfestival.org.
Jun. 10-12 SMOKY MOUNTAINS STORYTELLING FESTIVAL Join 5,000 folks who love to listen at Belle Island Village for tall tales, ghost stories, poems, soliloquies, and country comedy shared by professional storytellers. Pigeon Forge, Tenn. 865/429-7350. mypigeonforge.com.
June 10-12 TEXAS PETE TWIN CITY RIBFEST Four-day BBQ and music festival featuring BBQ teams from across the nation. This event also has thematic music days with two stages. Winston-Salem, N.C. 336/707-9188. twincityribfest.com.
June 10-13 HYDRANGEA FESTIVAL The Marquis de Lafayette will be surrounded by a profusion of pink and blue blossoms when the 10th annual festival blooms on LaGrange Square. Festival highlights include an old-fashioned garden party and wine tasting at a pre-Civil War garden at Hills Dales Estate and an outdoor "Picnic with the Pops" concert performed by the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra. Other fun includes original works of Southern artists, an open-air Market, colorful flowers and fresh-baked goodies, a "Color Wheels" family-friendly bike ride, private garden tours, musical entertainment, and children's hands-on art activities, LaGrange, Ga. lagrangechamber.com.
June 11-12 JUNE SUMMER BLUES OUT AND ART WALK Carriage rides, train rides and local artisans displaying their works are all highlights of this local tradition. Take part in the rib eating, pie eating and crayfish eating contests. Picayune, Miss. 601/799-3070. picayunemainstreet.com.
June 11-13 BLAIRSVILLE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES The Opening Ceremony for this family-friendly festival, held at shady Meeks Park, kicks off a weekend of Scottish clan gatherings, concerts, contests and Scottish fun and games. blairsvillescottishfestival.org.
Jun. 11-19 RIVERBEND FESTIVAL Fans can jam, juke, or just kick back and enjoy the music of every genre echoing down the Tennessee River. Children’s Village, great food and fireworks. Chattanooga, Tenn. 423/756-2211. riverbendfestival.com.
June 11-August 7 SMOKY MOUNTAIN TUNES AND TALES Summer-long street performance event featuring costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying time periods as far back as 1800. Gatlinburg, Tenn. 800/568-4748. eventsgatlinburg.com.
June 12 12 RIVERS ART FESTIVAL The mountains of Northeast Georgia have long been an arts destination, and the Sautee Nacoochee community celebrates that heritage with the inaugural juried Festival of fine art and craft. The event will feature the work of more than 65 artists, food from around the region and craft brewed beer and wine. Nacoochee, Ga. snca.org.
June 12-13 BLAIRSVILLE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL AND HIGHLAND GAMES Bagpipes, drums and festive smells permeate the air and rolling green mountainsides while the art of falconry is demonstrated at this weekend event. Blairsville, Ga. 877/745-5789. blairsvillescottishfestival.org.
June 19 RC--MOON PIE FESTIVAL A jam packed day of fun for the whole family awaits you. There is plenty of country and bluegrass music, a parade, clogging dancers, Moon Pie games, crafts, and the ever popular "synchronized wading extravaganza". Cutting of the worlds largest Moon Pie rounds out the day. Bell Buckle, Tenn. 931/389-9663. bellbucklechamber.com.
Jun. 21-27 HELEN KELLER FESTIVAL Festival honors the life, achievements and influence of "America's First Lady of Courage." Performance of “The Miracle Worker,” juried arts and crafts show, athletic events, parades and musical entertainment. Tuscumbia, Ala. 800/344-0783. helenkellerfestival.com.
June 23-27 ATHFEST Music & Arts Festival annual arts and music festival held each June in historic downtown Athens, GA, a town long renowned for its thriving music scene. A showcase of the best in local, regional, and nationally recognized Athens-based talent. Also included this year is a kidfest, filmfest, artist market and expanded stages. Athens, Ga. 706/338-9019. athfest.com.
June 25-26 BEAUFORT OLD HOMES & GARDENS The third oldest town in the state of S.C. will proudly showcase ten private historic homes, the ship of local pirate, Sinbad, breathtaking gardens, artist studios and historic places such as the Old Burying Ground as well as the Beaufort Historic Site, which depicts 18th and 19th century life in Beaufort, featuring tours of six authentically restored historic buildings. Beaufort, N.C. 800/575-7483. beauforthistoricsite.org.
June 25-27 SC FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS An estimated 40,000 visitors and locals will enjoy private home garden tours, musical concerts, children’s activities, cultural exhibits, sporting events and more. Greenwood, S.C. 864/223-8411. SCFestivalofFlowers.org.
JULY
July 1-4 MISSISSIPPI DEEP SEA FISHING RODEO This successful 62nd annual family-friendly event features fireworks, fishing, fellowship, and fun. Considered one of the region's largest fishing rodeos, contestants fish the Gulf waters for days, competing for cash and prizes in 30 categories of both saltwater and freshwater fish. Gulfport, Miss. 228/896-6699. gulfcoast.org.
July 2-4 CHEROKEE ART MARKET A showcase of the best Native American artists from across the country, the annual Cherokee Art Market is the perfect opportunity to marvel at and purchase prize-winning art in all mediums directly from the artists. Cherokee, N.C. 828/497-8128. Cherokee-nc.com.
July 2-4 JULY POWWOW On the first full weekend in July a special brand of fireworks happen as a three-day explosion of authentic Indian dancing, drumming and tribal regalia. Dance competitions kick the excitement up even higher. Cherokee, N.C. 828/497-8122. cherokee-nc.com.
July 3-4 SPIRIT OF AMERICA FESTIVAL Enjoy live stage entertainment, an action-filled children’s area and our new scouting celebration area that will feature hands-on activities and demonstrations in celebration of the Boy Scouts of America’s 100th birthday. The weekend fnishes up with a fireworks display that will delight and dazzle as the night sky is. Decatur, Ala. 800/232-5449. spiritofamericafestival.com.
July 6-8 WILD HORSE DAYS Bring the whole family for food, music, wine tasting, wild horse training, pony rides, huge silent auction, kids' activities, pet-a-mustang, photo contest, and so much more. All proceeds benefit the care and management of the wild horses. Corolla, N.C. 252/453.8002. visitnc.com.
July 8-10 SC FESTIVAL OF DISCOVERY Discover a weekend of food, fun, music, amusement rides and much more as you experience and learn about the history, traditions, folklore, arts and crafts, music and dance, and vernacular culture of Greenwood, the South Carolina Upstate area, and the entire state. Greenwood, S.C. 864/942-8448. festivalofdiscovery.com.
July 9-11 UNCLE DAVE MACON DAYS OLD-TIME MUSIC AND DANCE FESTIVAL This 33rd annual old-time music and dance festival spans The event features highly charged acoustic, instrumental and dance competitions, a juried arts & crafts, a nostalgic “motorless parade” featuring horse and mule drawn vehicles and more. Murfreesboro, Tenn. 615/893-2369. uncledavemacondays.com.
July 16-24 GATLINBURG CRAFTSMEN’S FAIR Art, crafts and music lovers can find almost 200 booths featuring some of the nation's finest work. Artisans and craftspeople are on hand to demonstrate their skills, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale. Live Country & Bluegrass entertainment. Gatlinburg, Tenn. 865/436-7479. craftsmenfair.com.
July 21-31 GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FAIR Southern-flair fair features a Pioneer Village with “old ways” demonstrations and a Craft Village filled with unique arts. Headliner entertainment, cloggers’ convention, agri-exhibits, Miss Georgia Fair pageant. Hiawassee, Ga. 706/896-4191. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com.
July 22-August 1 FOLKMOOT USA Two-week celebration of the world's cultural heritage through folk music and dance. Held each summer across the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina, Folkmoot features performances, a parade and workshops by up to 350 performers from ten to twelve countries. Waynesville, N.C. 828/452-2997. folkmootusa.org.
July 23-25 BELE CHERE FESTIVAL Annual 3-day festival on the streets of historic downtown Asheville features four stages of free- live music and an impressive array of arts and crafts; as well as entertainment and activities for children. Asheville, North Carolina. belecherefestival.com.
July 23-31 W.C. HANDY MUSIC FESTIVAL A week-long tribute to the “Father of the Blues,” W.C. Handy. Great Jazz and Blues music can be heard throughout the Shoals at restaurants, theatres, malls, parks and other locations. The week will,include over 100 events perfect for the jazz and blues enthusiast as well as,great family entertainment. Florence, Ala. 888-FLO-TOUR. visitflorenceal.com.
July 24-25 BUTTERNUT CREEK FESTIVAL One of the finest juried arts and crafts shows in the Southeast, this two-day festival showcases the work of 65 artists and craftsmen in categories from basketry, fine art, fabric art, and decorative painting, to glass, jewelry, metal working, photography, pottery, scrimshaw, and woodturning. Blairsville, Ga. 706/835-1948. butternutcreekfestival.com.
July 28-31 NORTH CAROLINA WATERMELON FESTIVAL Celebration of the heart-smart melon includes a seriously funny spitting contest, carnival rides, crafts, street dancing, the state’s largest agricultural parade, marching bands and fireworks. Murfreesboro, N.C. 252/398-5922. murfreesboronc.org.
AUGUST
August 5-7 ROBBINS FARMER DAY One of the largest horse parades on the east coast with more than 400 horses, mules and wagons. Carnival rides, crafts, lumberjack competitions, and more! Robbins, N.C. 910/464-1290. robbinsfarmersday.com.
August 6-7 MOUNT MITCHELL CRAFTS FAIR Stroll down the “Norman Rockwell” streets lined with artist booths and find everything from tables hand hewn from rhododendron bushes and maple logs to sparkling glass, birdhouses and handmade candles and soaps. Enjoy a delicious BBQ plate while sitting underneath a large maple trees and listen to the sounds of a bluegrass band. Burnsville, N.C. 828/682-7413. HomeofMtMitchell.com.
August 6-8 CRAFTSMEN'S CLASSIC ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL Features original designs and work from more than 250 talented artists and craftspeople from across America. See the creative process in action as many exhibitors demonstrate throughout the weekend. There is something for every style, taste and budget with items from the most traditional to the most contemporary. Myrtle Beach, S.C. craftshow.com.
August 7-8 REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLE REENACTMENT Relive Revolutionary War skirmish that left bullet holes throughout the home of Whig Colonel Phillip Alston. Encampment of soldiers and families, artillery and small arms demonstrations, craft demonstrations. Concessions available or bring your own picnic. Sanford, N.C. 910/947-2051. www.nchistoricsites.org.
August 14 BON FESTIVAL The evening features taiko drum performances, traditional Japanese folk dancing and a street fair with games and vendor booths. Guests can purchase hand-crafted lanterns to write a special message to passed loved ones. The highlight of the evening will begin at sunset when Morikami Pond, will be transformed into a tranquil sea of lighted lanterns that, in accordance with Japanese custom, guide the departure of ancestors’ souls who have come for a brief visit among the living. A special fireworks display will cap the enchanting evening. Delray Beach, Fla. 561/495-0233. morikami.org.
August 14 BRIGHT LIGHTS, BELHAVEN NIGHTS Under the street lights, myriad musicians, actors, craftsmen and artists promote one of the city’s oldest and most beautiful neighborhoods, including kids’ activities and international food court. Jackson, Miss. 601/352-8850. greaterbelhaven.com.
Aug. 20-21 FRANKLIN COUNTY WATERMELON FESTIVAL Watermelon t-shirts for sale, Antique car show, tractor show, motorcycle and street rod show, live outdoor free concerts, arts and crafts, food, games for the kids, watermelon contest, free inside entertainment in the historic Roxy theatre and much more. Russellville, Ala. 256/332-1760. franklincountychamber.org.
Aug. 20-21 PIGS AND PEACHES BBQ FESTIVAL Delicious smoke-cooked barbequed meats, tasty desserts, family fun and live entertainment will take center stage during the City of Kennesaw's annual State Championship BBQ contest. Also free music from a number of local and national acts, large Kid's Zone, unique vendor booths and sponsor exhibits. Kennesaw, Ga. 770/422-9714. kennesaw.ga.us.
August 25-Sept. 4 TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE NATIONAL CELEBRATION This 72nd annual celebration takes place each year during the 11 days and nights prior to Labor Day. It is the premier event for the Tennessee Walking Horse, during which the breed's World Grand Champion® and some 20 World Champions are named. Other activities include a barn decorating contest, a trade fair and a dog show. Shelbyville, Tenn. 931/684-5915. twhnc.com.
Aug. 26-28 WINTERVILLE WATERMELON FESTIVAL From watermelon carving to a watermelon roll contest is showcased at this two-day festival dedicated to this fun fruit. Winterville, N.C. 252/756-1068. watermelonfest.com.
Aug. 26-29 HICKORY NUT GORGE OLYMPIAD Family festival sports 20 water and land events that bring people together in the spirit of friendly competition and charitable giving. KidSenses Children’s Interactive Museum, raffles and shag dancing. Lake Lure, N.C. 828/429-9011. hickorynutolympiad.com.
Aug. 27-28 SUMMERFEST From sporting events and classic cars, to a 4-H petting zoo, arts and crafts, southern foods and music from every genre, there’s something for everyone. York, S.C. 803/684-2950. greateryorkchamber.com.
August 28-29 BIG HAYNES CREEK WILDLIFE FESTIVAL Third annual festival promotes understanding and enjoyment of the outdoors while featuring animal exhibits, guest speakers, hands-on demonstrations, children's activities, stage performances, arts and crafts, wildlife exhibits, reptile shows, birds of prey, living history.Grand Prix Plaza at the Georgia International Horse Park. Conyers, Ga. 770/860-4188. bighaynescreekwildlifefestival.com.
Aug. 28-29 CHARLESTON BEACH MUSIC AND SHAG FESTIVAL Organized by the Beach Music and Shag Preservation Society of South Carolina, the festival is a great time to enjoy great beach music, shag lessons and more. Charleston, S.C. beachmusicandshagpreservationsocietyofsouthcarolina.com.
SEPTEMBER
Sept. 3-6 PIONEER DAYS Includes arts and crafts show, Dixieland family rides and games for all ages, parade with Moby in the Morning South 107 as the Grand Marshall, Georgia Satellites in concert, fireworks, musicians, singers, dancers, cloggers and more. Sam Smith Park. Cartersville, Ga. 770/974-1813. pioneerdaysga.com.
Sept. 4-6 MARIETTA ART IN THE PARK 23rd annual festival features a juried fine art show that spotlights 130 artists whose works include paintings, photography, pottery, graphics, sculptures, jewelry and much more. Artists representing 16 states will display and sell their wares in Glover Park. Back by popular demand is the Interactive Art Alley full of many wonderful and free make and take art stations, which guest’s young and old can discover the hidden artist within. Marietta, Ga. 770/592-7150. mariettaartinthepark.com.
Sept. 6-12 TENNESSEE WILLIAMS TRIBUTE WEEKEND AND VICTORIAN HOME TOUR Memorabilia exhibits, scholars’ lectures and a tour of his childhood home are just some of the activities at this weeklong tribute to Mississippi’s beloved son, Tennessee Williams. Columbus, Miss. 662/328-5413. muw.edu/tennesseewilliams.
Sept. 10-11 BUSH HILL HERITAGE FESTIVAL Fun-filled family festival features music, arts & crafts, barbecue, homemade ice cream all southern style. Archdale, N.C. 336/434-2073. bushhillfestival.com.
Sept. 10-19 TENNESSEE VALLEY FAIR Whether it's the sweet smell of funnel cake, or the memory of your first ride on the Ferris Wheel, the Tennessee Valley Fair is a great place to have fun and celebrate the regions rich heritage and history. Activities include rides, games, music, exhibits, food, shows and competitions. Chilhowee Park, Knoxville, Tenn. 865/215-1477. tnvalleyfair.org.
Sept. 11-12 BILOXI SEAFOOD FESTIVAL For over 27 years this festival has been held as a celebration of Biloxi's rich culture, heritage, and connection to the seafood industry. The two-day festival features continuous live entertainment, an array of seafood, Sunday's Gumbo Contest, arts and craft booths, and children's activities. Biloxi, Miss. 228/604-0014. biloxi.org.
Sept. 10-12 CELTICFEST MISSISSIPPI The festivities begin with the Filum event. An ever popular highlight of CelticFest, the massive Céilí Mór Dance caps off Saturday night with three shifts of live music. In addition to stage performances there are many free music, dance, or cultural workshops and a children’s activity area. Jackson, Miss. 601/960-1891. celticfestms.org.
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