Haywood County Arts Council’s annual fundraiser returns Oct. 24 with Balsam Range, Appalachian Road Show and more.
MAGGIE VALLEY, N.C. (Smokies.LIVE Events Center) — Bluegrass music, regional artists and autumn mountain views will come together Saturday, Oct. 24, for the Haywood County Arts Council’s annual fall festival at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds.
The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine, at 3374 Soco Road in Maggie Valley. The event serves as the arts council’s largest fundraiser of the year, supporting its work to promote local artists and the arts throughout Haywood County.
Four bands are scheduled to perform, led by Balsam Range, the Haywood County bluegrass group that has headlined the festival in past years.
The lineup also includes Appalachian Road Show, featuring musicians with Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated credentials; Unspoken Tradition, a North Carolina band known for original songs inspired by the region; and Red Camel Collective, named the International Bluegrass Music Association’s New Artist of the Year in 2025.
In addition to the music, festivalgoers can browse work by Haywood County Arts Council member artists, visit vendors selling handmade items, participate in raffles and enjoy local food and drinks. A playground will offer activities for children and families.
The late-October timing also provides an opportunity to enjoy fall colors across the surrounding mountain ridges, making the festival a seasonal outing for residents and visitors.
More than 1,000 people attended last year’s event, according to the festival information.
General admission is $65 plus tax, with children 12 and younger admitted free. Folding chair rentals will be available at the gate for $5.
Performance times and the order of the bands have not been announced. Visitors planning to attend for a particular group should check with the Haywood County Arts Council closer to the event.
Tickets are available through the Haywood County Arts Council. All ticket sales are final.
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