I go every year with hundred's of others from the surrounding states. A historic grist mill on a river, tons of vendors and food beautiful surroundings and entertainment too.
I go here with the family often to get out in nature and to wet a hook. Nice area and when the festival is in town it can be very busy. The creek that runs next to the mill can be dangerous and children need to be supervised and common sense used. It is deep and water swift moving with under water obstructions. Great place to visit from time to time.
The country festival gets better and better every year. The food, vendors, and atmosphere surrounding an old country mill fall festival are unmatched in the area, and a MUST GO event! Parking is a little distant in the fields, yet shuttles make it easier. The scenic setting seem to match the smiles of vendors and festival goers alike. Although I'm sure clogging is popular, I think a little more variety for entertainment would be nice. FUN time!!! :-)
I grew up approximately three miles from Prater's Mill, and have spent countless hours there. From weddings to song writing, the scenic and inspirational landscape surrounding the mill have offered me many opportunities for intrinsic soul searching and have provided a mind-cleansing sanctuary. Recently, the foundation that provides upkeep for Prater's Mill seems to have found increased funding, and the site has improved drastically. My students and I take an annual field trip, even if it's only a couple of miles away, to the mill and enjoy the rich history and cultural experience provided by the volunteers there. I am not so sure that I would make this the highlight of a distant road trip, but if it is within a twenty mile radius of your journey, or you are passing through Dalton, GA, on I-75, then I think you would be remised if you do not make the short sojourn to Prater's Mill. Also, they have an annual fall festival with vendors from several distinct locations, if you enjoy that sort of event.
I have been to Prater's mill many times, because it's just a nice place to visit. They hold a few different festivals each year, and when there isn't something going on it's usually pretty quiet. I like to go walk the paths by the river and just admire the surroundings. Good place to relax for a while.
Chances are when someone has their pictures made in Dalton at some time or another Prater's Mill is involved. The old buildings, the barns, the train and the dam all offer as many photo opportunities as you can imagine. This is a place where people have weddings, family reunions. the Boy scouts camp out here, people fish here and there's always the Prater's Mill Country Fair held each year on Mother's Day weekend. I don't care for most events here, but I do like to take a photo or two here occasionally. Besides, it's a convenient location for me which makes it even better.
Fun place to visit and take photos. There was a fair going on when we visited. Lots if artwork and food items were for sale. It was a great visit and we got a lot of great photos.
The mill was built before the Civel War. On Columbus Day weekend they have an Arts and Crafts fair that is a top 100 event in the entire country. Featuring traditional music and dance as well as art works by what I feel are some of the best artisans in the country. There are lots of things to do and see as well as a tour of the mill while it is running! They will also be selling fresh ground products from the mill. You really need to see this. It's also a great historical place to see and make photos even if it's not during the fair.
The mill is one of the few grain mills that is still in use. The facility, including the country store, is now open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. It's worth a trip out in the beautiful Georgia country side to relax by the Coahulla Creek and see a piece of history that is still going strong.
First time to attend this particular festival. We had to park in a cow pasture about 1/4 of a mile from the festival. It was muddy & our car got filthy as well as our shoes. Very poorly organized in my opinion based on other festivals. $7.00 admission to walk through mud & straw to look at vendors items & we were in & out in about 30 minutes. If there was a way to get a refund I would surely apply for it. Don't waste your time on this so called "country fair".