Ellijay · Apple Capital of Georgia
The Georgia Apple Festival
For more than five decades, the Georgia Apple Festival has filled two October weekends in Ellijay with handmade crafts, mountain music, fair food, and — of course — North Georgia apples by the bushel. It's grown into one of the Southeast's biggest arts-and-crafts shows while keeping its small-town, Blue Ridge feel.
About the Festival
Held the second and third weekends of Octoberat the Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds, the festival celebrates Gilmer County's long history as the Apple Capital of Georgia— the heart of the state's apple country, where dozens of orchards line the roads into town.
What started as a modest community arts-and-crafts gathering now draws tens of thousands of visitors each year, yet it “continues to be a big show with a small-town feel.” Expect rows of handmade goods, the smell of fried pies and kettle corn, live music, and fresh local apples everywhere you look.
What to Expect
300+ Crafters & Artisans
Handmade crafts, woodwork, candles, glass, pottery, jewelry, and home décor from makers across the region.
North Georgia Apples
Fresh-picked apples, cider, apple butter, fried apple pies, and orchard goods straight from Gilmer County.
Fair Food
Classic festival eats — BBQ, kettle corn, funnel cakes, boiled peanuts and more.
Live Music
Bluegrass and local bands on stage throughout both weekends.
Live Demonstrations
Old-time skills on display — blacksmithing, glass blowing, and other hands-on demos.
Family Fun & Parade
Inflatables, a climbing wall, kids' games, and the Georgia Apple Festival Parade.
When & Where
1729 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA 30540
Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds — Georgia Apple Festival
Official Info & Tickets
georgiaapplefestival.org — dates, tickets, vendor & parade applications, and FAQs.
Visit1729 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA 30540 — open in Google Maps.
Get directionsDates, hours, admission, and parking are set by the festival organizers and can change year to year — always confirm the latest details on the official Georgia Apple Festival website before you go. Photos courtesy of the Georgia Apple Festival.