Mountain Heritage Day

Description

Western Carolina University’s Mountain Heritage Day, a free, family-oriented festival that celebrates Southern Appalachian culture through music, living history demonstrations, contests and competitions, and awards programs, will be held on Saturday, Sept. 30, on campus here in Cullowhee, North Carolina. 
Mountain Heritage Day is an annual, nationally recognized family oriented cultural festival. As such, it draws visitors with interests in southern Appalachian and Cherokee culture, folk arts, crafts, dance and music, food and living history demonstrations. The origins of attendees goes far beyond county lines and can extend into neighboring states. The festival is of particular interest to those interested in Great Smoky and Blue Ridge mountains history, bluegrass and old-time music, clogging and homespun products, with an audience within western North Carolina, eastern Tennessee, northern Georgia and upstate South Carolina, who are within easy driving but often two-hour or more drive time. Annual, routine attendance is in the 20,000-range. While here, attendees are likely to visit other area attractions. Some of these attendees will utilize overnight accommodations, almost all can be expected to purchase food, gas and other items during their visit.
 
Old-time mountain music, bluegrass bands, shape note singing, Cherokee stickball games, chainsaw competitions, antique car and truck show, storytelling and clogging are highlights. The living history demonstrations include shooting muzzle-loading rifles, blacksmithing, stone carving, banjo-making, corn shuck crafts, Cherokee arts and crafts, broom-making. Children activities include sack races, free wagon rides and hayrides. Expect 130+ booths of regional arts and crafts, and vendors offering ethnic, heritage and festival food. A 5K race precedes event. Mobility-impaired accessible and assistance provided. Service dogs allowed, but no pets. Held rain or shine. Attendees encouraged to bring umbrellas, hats and sunscreen, as well as lawn chairs or blankets. Free parking and shuttle service. Festival opens 10 a.m. and closes 5 p.m. More info at www.mountainheritageday.com and 828-227-3039.