Celebrating 75 Years of Mountain Magic at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
This year marks a major milestone in North Georgia, the 75th Anniversary of the Georgia Mountain Fair. Since 1950, generations of families have passed through the gates of the fairgrounds in Hiawassee, each visit filled with Appalachian music, handcrafted art, carnival rides, and that unmistakable feeling of small-town joy. In 2025, this iconic celebration will shine brighter than ever.
Located along the shores of Lake Chatuge, the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds has long served as the heartbeat of Towns County’s cultural calendar. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the sounds of fiddles and banjos, the smells of fresh kettle corn and smoked BBQ, and a welcoming community ready to celebrate what makes the North Georgia mountains so special.
75th Annual Georgia Mountain Fair (August 15–23, 2025)
This year’s Fair promises to be bigger and better than ever with new events and expanded entertainment to honor 75 years of tradition. From heritage crafts to live music, family fun to Appalachian flavors, this beloved festival offers something for everyone.
What to Expect:
- Live music from legendary country and bluegrass performers in the Anderson Music Hall.
- Traditional craft demonstrations at Pioneer Village, blacksmithing, woodworking, pottery, and more.
- Midway rides and carnival games are perfect for kids and the young at heart.
- Southern eats and local treats, from corn dogs to hand-churned ice cream.
- Gospel shows and community worship, preserving spiritual traditions of the mountains.
- Special 75th Anniversary Kickoff Day on August 14 with free entertainment and a fireworks finale to light up the lake.
Beyond the headliners and hometown vendors, what makes this Fair truly memorable is the spirit of the people who come together to celebrate it, generations of families who’ve grown up attending, craftspeople who have kept their traditions alive, and newcomers discovering this mountain magic for the first time.
Whether you’re reminiscing over memories from decades past or experiencing the Fair for the first time, this landmark year is the perfect time to take part in one of Georgia’s most treasured events.
Music That Moves the Mountains
Concerts at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds have always drawn big names, but the 2025 lineup is stacked with unforgettable performances. Expect evenings with country headliners like Josh Turner, rising stars, tribute bands, and crowd favorites like Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder and gospel sensations.
Every show is set against the stunning backdrop of the North Georgia Mountains, whether you’re dancing under the stars or relaxing on a blanket by the water, it’s an experience that just feels like home.
Throughout the Fair’s nine-day run, music fills the air day and night. From classic bluegrass and Americana to gospel and Southern rock, there’s a stage and a song for everyone. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chair and get ready to clap, sway, and sing along.
Festivals That Celebrate the Seasons
The Georgia Mountain Fair is just the beginning. All year long, the Fairgrounds bring North Georgia culture to life with seasonal events that blend family fun and mountain charm.
Don’t Miss:
- Fall Festival (October 10–18, 2025): Crisp air, changing leaves, and Appalachian art and music.
- Appalachian Brew, Stew & Que (October): The ultimate mix of craft beer, BBQ, and bluegrass.
- Mountain Country Christmas in Lights (late November–December): Twinkling lights, Santa visits, and holiday spirit along the lakeshore.
Each event reflects the rhythm of life in the mountains, joyful, rooted, and rich with community. The Fairgrounds offer something for every season, whether you’re warming your hands with cider in October or taking photos with Santa in December.
These festivals are more than events, they’re opportunities to make memories. With every visit, there’s something new to discover, taste, and experience.
75 Years of Fairground Memories
For three-quarters of a century, the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds has been more than a destination, it’s a tradition. A place where stories are passed down, music brings people together, and the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains adds a little magic to every memory.
Some remember childhood summers spent on the Ferris wheel, their first concert under the stars, or walking hand in hand with grandparents through the craft booths. Others come for the sense of belonging, whether it’s reconnecting with old friends or feeling right at home among strangers who greet you like family.
As we celebrate 75 years of heritage, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how this special place has shaped generations and how it continues to bring people together year after year.
Whether you’re visiting for the Fair’s anniversary, gathering with friends for a concert, or planning a festive family outing later in the year, there’s no better time to discover or rediscover this Towns County treasure.
Planning Your Visit
Getting the most out of your Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds experience is all about planning ahead. Be sure to check the latest schedule, purchase your concert or fair tickets early, and book nearby lodging, especially for big event weekends.
Visit GeorgiaMountainFairgrounds.com for details on performers, activities, and admission. Pair your trip with a hike up Bell Mountain, a swim in Lake Chatuge, or a sunset dinner at one of the many lakeside restaurants nearby.
This summer, come celebrate 75 years of North Georgia’s most iconic tradition. We’ll save you a seat by the stage, and a funnel cake, too.