Fall Color Update, and Local October Events

According to exploreasheville.com, Fall color has begun at 5000 ft. and above.  We have had some cooler temps this week (in the 40’s the last two mornings) which should help bring out the colors.  Poplar, birch, and magnolia are starting to turn at the higher elevations, with sourwood and maples following close behind.  I believe we are still at least 2 to 3 weeks away from peak color here in Maggie Valley.  Craggy Gardens, north of Asheville on the Parkway is showing some color with the  Mountain Ashe which is loaded with red berries right now.  Sometimes you will see the Mountain Ash trees with broken limbs where the black bears have climbed into the tree to consume the berries.  (There was a nice-sized bear in my front yard a few weeks ago eating wild cherries that had fallen on the ground.)

For a nice road trip tomorrow (Saturday, Oct. 1st) head south of Waynesville on Hwy 276 toward Brevard.  In the Pisgah National Forest you will pass the Cradle of Forestry.  Fall Festival Day is tomorrow.  Exhibitors, craftsmen, and forestry students usually have a really nice Fall Festival.  There is a small admission charge.

In Waynesville, Friday, October 7th is Art After Dark until 9 PM.  Several art studios and galleries will be open that evening showcasing local arts and offering refreshments to visitors.  There is usually street music also.  If you haven’t been, it’s a really nice evening.  Saturday, October 8th is the 33rd Annual Church Street Art & Craft Show.  (Don’t be fooled by the title; it’s actually held on Main Street in Waynesville.)  The following weekend, Saturday, October 15th is the Apple Harvest Festival in Waynesville.  This is always a well-attended event in Downtown Waynesville.

Here in Maggie Valley, tomorrow, Saturday, October 1st is the 43rd Annual Fall Regional Shelby/ Mustang & Ford Meet.  All you “Blue Oval” fans will not want to miss that.  On October 15th and 16th is the Maggie Valley Arts and Crafts Show at the Festival Grounds.  This show usually has lots of unique exhibitors.