Hiawassee, Georgia
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Your complete 2026–2027 event guide — the Georgia Mountain Fair, Fall Festival, amphitheater concerts, nearby restaurants, and where to stay just 5 minutes away.
About the Venue
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA
A beloved mountain tradition since 1950 — and one of North Georgia's most iconic destinations.
The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds sits in the heart of Hiawassee, GA — a small mountain town in Towns County where the Blue Ridge Mountains meet Lake Chatuge. Since the 1950s, the fairgrounds have been the center of regional community life, hosting everything from the beloved annual Georgia Mountain Fair to country concerts, motorcycle rallies, and trade shows.
The centerpiece is the outdoor amphitheater, which draws regional and national acts throughout the spring, summer, and fall. The fairgrounds also features large covered exhibition halls, an open midway, craft vendor areas, and ample parking — all set against the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding Appalachian peaks.
The two signature events — the Georgia Mountain Fair (late July/early August) and the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival (October) — each draw tens of thousands of visitors from across the Southeast. If you're planning a trip around either event, book lodging early. Towns County has limited accommodations, and the best spots fill up months in advance.
Official Fairgrounds Website
2026–2027 Events
What's Happening at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
From the signature summer fair to fall festivals and year-round concerts — here's what to plan around.
Georgia Mountain Fair
Late July – Early August (approx. 11 days)One of Georgia's most beloved annual traditions since 1950. The fair draws tens of thousands of visitors with live country, bluegrass, and gospel music on the outdoor amphitheater stage, a full midway of carnival rides, local artisan and craft vendors, food stands, clogging demonstrations, and family-friendly entertainment from morning to night.
Georgia Mountain Fall Festival
Mid-October (approx. 5 days)Held during the height of fall foliage season, the Fall Festival brings the same beloved fair atmosphere to the most scenic time of year in the North Georgia mountains. Expect live mountain music, traditional crafts, apple butter demonstrations, cider, pumpkins, and stunning color in the surrounding hills.
Spring & Summer Amphitheater Concerts
April – AugustThe outdoor amphitheater at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds hosts a regular schedule of ticketed concerts throughout spring and summer. Programming leans toward country, Southern rock, bluegrass, and gospel — drawing regional and national acts to this intimate outdoor stage in the mountains.
Seasonal Trade Shows & Special Events
Year-roundThe fairgrounds hosts a rotating calendar of events throughout the year: gun shows, antique shows, RV rallies, motorcycle events, craft fairs, and community gatherings. The venue's large grounds and covered exhibition halls make it a regional hub for events of all sizes.
Event dates and lineups are announced at georgiamountainfair.com. We recommend checking the official site for confirmed 2026–2027 schedules before booking travel.
5 Minutes from the Fairgrounds
The Best Place to Stay Near Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Tranquille Resort is a lakefront cabin resort on Lake Chatuge — just a 5-minute drive from Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. While hotels fill up for fair week, our 7 fully renovated cabins give you a private lakefront retreat to come home to after a long day of events.
- 5 minutes from Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
- Private dock & boat ramp on Lake Chatuge
- Full kitchens — cook your own meals, save money
- Pontoon boat, kayak & paddleboard rentals on-site
- Bonfire pits & Adirondack chairs
- Pet-friendly — all 7 cabins welcome dogs & cats
- 600+ five-star reviews on Google, Airbnb & VRBO
7 Lakefront Cabins
Choose Your Cabin for Fair Week
From romantic studios to a 3-bedroom lodge that sleeps a whole family — all on the shores of Lake Chatuge.
The Red Cabin #1
Cozy lakeside retreat with mountain & lake views
The Blue Cabin #2
Cozy lakeside retreat with mountain & lake views
The White Cabin #3
Cozy lakeside retreat with mountain & lake views
Dining Near the Fairgrounds
Best Restaurants Near Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Hiawassee and the surrounding area have solid dining options for every occasion — from BBQ lunches to lakefront dinners.
Cornell's Bar-B-Q
BBQ & Southern
Local BBQ institution in Hiawassee known for slow-smoked meats, pulled pork, and classic Southern sides. A go-to for casual, filling meals after a day at the fair.
The Ridgeway Restaurant
American Comfort Food
A Hiawassee staple serving hearty breakfast and lunch. Known for biscuits, local comfort food, and a friendly small-town atmosphere.
Fieldstone Inn Restaurant
Lakefront Dining
Lakefront dining on Lake Chatuge with scenic views. A good option for a relaxed dinner or special occasion meal during your stay.
El Jinete Mexican Restaurant
Mexican
A local favorite for Tex-Mex in Hiawassee. Great for a quick, satisfying dinner after a long day at the fairgrounds.
Brasstown Valley Resort Dining
Upscale American
The Brasstown Valley Resort offers a full dining room with mountain views — a step up for those celebrating something special or wanting a more refined dinner.
Crane Creek Vineyards
Winery & Wine Bar
Award-winning winery just south of Young Harris. Pours local wines on a relaxed property — ideal for an afternoon before an evening concert.
For a full dining guide with 60+ local recommendations, visit our Hiawassee Area Guide.
Getting Here
Drive Times to Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Hiawassee sits at the crossroads of the Blue Ridge Mountains — easy to reach from Atlanta, Chattanooga, and beyond.
Make It a Full Trip
More Things to Do Near Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Pair your fairgrounds visit with the best of the North Georgia mountains — lakes, peaks, wineries, and waterfalls.
Lake Chatuge
One of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the Southeast. Kayak, paddleboard, rent a pontoon, or simply relax on the dock at Tranquille Resort.
Rent a BoatBrasstown Bald
Georgia's highest peak at 4,784 ft. A 20-minute drive for panoramic views of four states — spectacular any time of year, unforgettable in October.
See More HikesCrane Creek Vineyards
Award-winning winery just south of Young Harris. A perfect afternoon stop before heading back to the fairgrounds for an evening concert.
Area Wine GuideAppalachian Trail Access
Multiple AT trailheads are within 30 minutes of Hiawassee. Bly Gap and Deep Gap offer stunning ridge walks with minimal crowds.
Hiking GuideHelen, GA
The quirky Bavarian mountain village is 40 minutes away — great for a day trip with unique shops, Oktoberfest (fall), and the Chattahoochee River tubing.
Day Trip IdeasLocal Waterfalls
Amicalola Falls, Anna Ruby Falls, and DeSoto Falls are all within an hour. The North Georgia mountains are one of the best waterfall regions in the East.
Waterfall GuideGuest Reviews
What Guests Say About Staying at Tranquille Resort
“Everything about this place was wonderful! The cabin was spotless and comfortable, the views were amazing, and the attention to detail in and around the cabin was top notch.”
— Sarah
“Relaxing, restful and soothing to the soul. Beautiful grounds, convenient parking, very relaxing and comforting views, and clean, well-appointed accommodations.”
— Jennifer
“Beautiful and peaceful, with wonderful experiences, sweet and helpful staff, and is close to everything yet secluded enough to provide an escape.”
— Amanda
“Tranquille Resort is definitely Tranquil! We had the most amazing girls trip. Everything was clean, cozy, and the views were absolutely stunning.”
— Rachel
FAQ
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds: Visitor Questions
Where exactly is the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds?
When is the Georgia Mountain Fair in 2026?
When is the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival in 2026?
What concerts are scheduled at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in 2026?
What is the best place to stay near Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds?
Is there parking at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds?
What else is there to do near the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds?
How far in advance should I book a cabin for fair week?
Book Your Stay for Fair Week
Tranquille Resort is just 5 minutes from Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds — with private lakefront cabins, a dock, boat rentals, and 600+ five-star reviews. Fair week fills fast. Book now to lock in your cabin.