We loved the long hike through the rhododendrons, the view of Lake Chatuge, the benches, the historic spots, the Me orial gardens and the views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. We also enjoyed, when we were on Lake Chatuge, the view of the surrounding mountains on all sides!
A friend and I went to the fall festival on the fairgrounds mid October. I loved the location next to the lake which made a beautiful backdrop/setting. The fall leaves in the area were starting to turn and since all of the stalls of the festival all were under hardwood trees,it put you in the mood for fall. I enjoyed all of the different hand made arts and crafts. I personally Delft the talent showcased at this festival was amazing and varied from jewelry to woodcarving to painting to sewing to hand crafted dulcimers and so on and so on. I bought alot of Christmas presents here because the prices I felt were such a bargain due the time and craftsmanship put into the items. I look forward to going back next year and have been telling everyone I meet to put this on their Calender for next year and you should too.
The Georgia Mountain Fair in Hiawassee, GA has been held since the early 1950's.http://www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com/ It was once held in the school in downtown Hiawassee! When the new fairgrounds were built access became much easier. There is ample free parking with a shuttle bus to carry you to the gate. Come prepared to walk. It is all on a hilly, tree covered site on the shore of Lake Chatuge. The paths are paved so wheelchairs can travel easier. There are plenty of places to sit and rest but do wear comfortable shoes. It is all under the cover of the trees but can be a bit muggy if there isn't a breeze so dress comfortably. There are vendor booths full of crafts. There is a wonderful area with old log cabin stores, houses and a school. There are craftsmen demonstrating old pioneer crafts. There is a wonderful exhibit hall with local craft exhibits and donated items from days past. There is always some sort of musical entertainment in the music all. Many big name country stars and others perform each day. The fair is a wonderful glimpse into the past and well worth the reasonable price of admission!
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds is a unique venue for Hiawassee when we do have some decent entertainment. It seems as though not much effort has been made in the last couple of years to have groups that will bring not only local, but regional visitors. Country music is fun, but we'd like to see other sounds.
We toured the gardens - not a lot in bloom yet, but what was in bloom was beautiful. We bought several native azaleas to bring home to plant.
We got a spot right on the lake, and it was right on the lake! Close enough for kids to play in the water and hear the water noise. We had a fire pit between the campsite and the lake which was nice. Plenty of room for tent, truck, our 'stuff', and picnic table. We had our own water and electric hookup. Will definitely go back next time we have the opportunity.
I have been attending shows at the Anderson Music Hall in Hiawassee for several years. This month I saw Brenda Lee, Ricky Scaggs, The Sunday Gospel Show & Merle Haggard. The Anderson Music Hall Is the best place I've ever been to see quality entertainment. In addition to Great seating, the people are always friendly & helpful and most are volunteers. Everytime I take friends for their 1st visit there, they are always amazed at the great seats, the Quality of entertainment and the low price. It doesn't get any better than that.
Campsites are very small, virtually no privacy. Sites are not as accommodating as suggested by park officials. The Fairground side of the campsites are somewhat better however still no privacy and you are stacked up on each other. They are full hook up sites but very few and you are not allowed to have open fires in that area. The west side campsites are totally crowded and only one bathroom and shower is available, with no air controlled building wasps and other insects fly around you while trying to take a shower or do your business. Another downfall of the park is that they let campsites be reserved monthly so if you don't put in reservation years in advance the good sites are taken by people who only use them once in awhile. The only good thing about the Lake is that it is a very pretty lake, however with way to many bass tournaments and no DNR restocking of the lake with fish as taken it's toll on the fishing.
Always a great place to see crafts, shows and other events. Summer and fall festivals are fun to attend with a great location on beautiful Lake Chatuge. Very nice camp ground there as well.
Fireworks show is really great family atmosphere with a beautiful view of the mountains as well. Also a good venue for country music performances.