BeST TrIpS 7. SAMPLE LOCAL FLAVORS IN ELLIJAY Nothing says down-home fun like a spirited festival celebrating local culture and community. This is why the Georgia Apple Festival in Ellijay has been a highlight of the “apple capital” of Georgia for more than 50 years. Held on the second and third full weekends in October, the folksy gathering honors the apple harvest. Here you can browse roughly 300 vendors selling food, art and handcrafted items, or pause to check out the on-site craft demonstrations. Enjoy family-friendly events held throughout the four-day event, including the popular Annual Apple Classic Auto Show , the Apple Festival 5K Road Race and the Apple Festival Parade , which starts and ends in downtown Ellijay. Of course, local orchards are in on the charming festival fun. At the family-owned R & A Orchards , not only can you pick apples from the tree during the u-pick apple season (September–October), you can also grab a pair of clippers and a cup to create a custom bouquet in the flower fields with a vibrant selection of zinnias, sunflowers and wildflowers. After dropping by the u-pick apple orchards at Red Apple Barn , hop on over to the pumpkin patches, where you’ll find the one that awaits your carved masterpiece, for more fall delights. While apples get all the Ellijay glory, there’s no denying that the area’s wineries are starting to garner some serious attention. Several serve up spectacular countryside views, live music and other ways to relax along with their tasting flights. Sip vidal blancs in Cartecay Vineyards ’ 1890s Tasting Barn, dry apple wines in the relaxed environs of Buckley Vineyards and rose and sprinkling wines in the rooftop garden bar at Roo Mountain Vineyards . B.J. REECE ORCHARDS, EXPLORE GEORGIA/CALEB JONES Nestled in 265 acres of vibrant scenery, kickstart your mountain fun with a stay at The Lodge at Walnut Grove . With its spacious living rooms, an in-house library, dual kitchens, a wraparound porch and serene stone patios, its stylish presentation harmonizes with stunning valley views. Enjoy an awesome view of Ellijay when you head to the trendy downtown restaurant, The Roof . Treat yourself to Southern favorites like fried green tomatoes, boiled peanuts and bologna sliders on the spacious outdoor patio. EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG 21
Official State Travel Guide 2024 Georgia Official State Travel Guide: Page 21
