Note: This is part of a history series on popular tourism activities in Transylvania County. A corresponding display is on the second floor of the Transylvania County Library through July 2024.

People celebrate in community. Seasons, the arts, music, iconic animals, and favorite locations have all inspired the many festivals that have sprung up in Transylvania County over time.

Some festivals through the years have been the Festival of the Arts near Independence Day, Halloweenfest, the Festival of Trees near Christmas, White Squirrel Festival, Crade of Forestry Forest Festival, Appalachian Heritage Festival, Mountain Song Festival, Upper French Broad River Festival, DuPont Forest Festival, Centennial and Sesquicentennial celebrations, and more.

With every event or several days of events, music, food, drinks, fun activities, and community all bring people out in droves as they celebrate what makes Transylvania County unique.

Local restaurants, shops, and museums see increased visitor traffic at these times, and small businesspeople have the opportunity to vend their crafts and wares. Festival tourism is a boon for businesses and artisans.

Festivals bring people from all over the region to enjoy what Transylvania has to offer. They are a community activity for locals too, providing an opportunity to see and be seen among the hustle and bustle of fun times.

Photographs and information for this column are provided by the Rowell Bosse North Carolina Room, Transylvania County Library. This article was written by Local History Librarian Laura Sperry. Sources available upon request. For more information, comments, or suggestions, contact NC Room staff at [email protected] or 828-884-1820.