The air is crisp, the mountains are glowing in shades of gold and amber, and the sweet smell of apples drifts through the valleys. It’s Apple Festival time — Ellijay’s signature celebration and one of the busiest but fun weekends in North Georgia!
Apple Festival 101
Always the second and third weekends of October, the Georgia Apple Festival fills downtown Ellijay and the fairgrounds with over 300 vendors, crafts, live music, and every apple-themed treat imaginable. Think fried apple pies, cider slushies, caramel-dipped everything, and local art for days.
Reminder, this is an outdoor event and happens rain or shine – the great news for 2025 –preliminary 10-day weather reports are indicating (for now) sunny with temperatures in the low 70s – so it looks like it’s going to be an awesome year (I guess we can’t plug our incredible one-of-a-kind umbrellas at 515Gear.com).
Pro tip: Arrive early! Parking fills up fast and traffic on Highway 515 will get cozy. The festival shuttle system and satellite parking lots are encouraged, but a little patience and a smile go a long way — especially when you’re surrounded by mountain charm.
Getting Around & Things to Know
· Pets: We love them, but pets are NOT ALLOWED at the Apple Festival or the shuttle buses.
o Service animals are allowed. If traveling with a service animal, plan to park at the fairgrounds or arrange to be dropped off at the gates
o The Apple Arts festival in downtown Ellijay does allow pets and runs at the same time as the fairgrounds Apple Festival
· Apple Festival Timing: Festival hours are 9am-6pm Saturday, and 9am-5pm Sunday,.
· Fees: Admission to the Georgia Apple Festival is $10 per person and children 12 and under are free.
· Parking: Look for designated festival lots around Gilmer County High School or hop on the free downtown shuttles. There is handicap parking, but it’s on a first come basis.
o Parking Fees: lots are run by local community organizations, and lot fees vary. Cash is preferred.
o Parking near free shuttles: Ellijay Elementary School, Downtown Ellijay (will fill up quickly), Gilmer County Head Start, Mountain View Elementary School, Gilmer High School, Larry Walker Education Center
o Parking within festival walking: Ellijay Lions Club, Gilmer County Parks & Rec. (both locations), Gilmer County Civic Center
· Downtown detour: Explore the local boutiques, antique shops, and coffee stops along North Main Street — it’s part of the fun and the Apple Arts Festival is located here.
· Dining: Popular spots like The Roof, Butcher & Bottle, River Street Pub, Cantaberry, Back Porch Bistro, Ellijay Tapz, The Shack and Ellijay Wood Fired Pizza will be very busy, so please plan for a wait or order ahead. Relax, breathe in that apple-spiced air, and enjoy the mountain pace and grab a drink and visit the downtown boardwalk.
Beyond the Apples – Wineries, Orchards & More
After you’ve filled your tote with festival goodies, spend the afternoon unwinding among the rolling vineyards and orchards that make Ellijay so special.
· Wineries: Check out Roo Mountain (only 21+ are allowed on premisis), Chateau Meichtry, Engelheim, Buckly, Ott, Cartecay Vineyards (and there are several more) for tastings with a view.
· Orchards: R&A, B.J. Reece, and Hillcrest offer u-pick apples, hayrides, and farm fun for all ages.
· Pumpkin season: Grab a few pumpkins or snap some photos in the fall fields — visit Red Apple Barn, B.J. Reece and of course Burt’s Farm to pick some gourds - it’s the perfect backdrop for your new 515Gear tee.
· Corn Maze: yes, the seaon is not complete without taking the little ones to a corn maze and to meet some animals – visit Cress Creeks Farm
· Savor the Spore: if you love mushrooms – don’t miss visiting the Ellijay Mushroom Farm/Farm Store – it’s a one of kind in North Georgia!
Work Off Those Apple Donuts & Cider
Balance out all those treats with a short scenic hike. Aska Trails near Blue Ridge, Amadahy Trail at Carter’s Lake, or the easy trek to Fall Branch Falls make for great quick adventures. You’ll earn those next cider donuts, promise.
Dress for the Mountain Vibe
Whether you’re a weekend visitor or lucky local, fall fashion in Ellijay means layering up — and showing off your mountain pride. 515Gear’s locally inspired designs celebrate everything you love about North Georgia:
- Long-sleeve tees for cool mornings at the orchard
- Tees & Hats for the warmer days
- Cozy hoodies for vineyard sunsets
Show your local pride and get the perfect keepsake and gifts shipped right to home. The 515 Gear collections rep the corridor towns from Jasper to Hiawassee found along Scenic Highway 515. Shop the Ellijay Fall Collection at 515Gear.com and bring home a wearable memory of your perfect mountain weekend.
Love North Georgia… where Small Towns meet Big Styles.
515Gear.com!
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