The Blue Ridge Mountains are a hidden haven for music lovers thanks to unique styles passed down through the generations. Inspired by a melting pot of Old World immigrants and Native American cultures, the region’s mountain music attracts visitors from around the world. Immerse yourself in this vibrant community that pays homage to the past and embraces the future; explore Haywood County with tips from our Blue Ridge Music Trails.
Blue Ridge Music Trail Experiences: Haywood County
Held in the spring at the Shook-Smathers House in Clyde, the Quay Smathers Memorial Singing School teaches and preserves the time-honored Southern Appalachian tradition of shape-note singing. The school carries on the legacy of Quay Smathers, a singing master and recipient of the prestigious North Carolina Folk Heritage Award. It offers a unique look into the tempo, phrasing, and oral traditions associated with this regional singing style.
For those longing to experience the art of shape note singing in the fall, the second Sunday in September is Old Folks Day at the Morning Star Methodist Church. A long-standing tradition since 1889, the event is open to guests and includes singing on the church grounds.
Show off your dancing skills, learn a new step, or just sit back and enjoy the show at the Stompin’ Ground Dance Hall in Maggie Valley. A local landmark for over 40 years, the expansive event space is known as the clogging capital of the world and is open Saturday nights, April through October. The family-friendly venue features live music, stadium-style seating, and a welcoming dance floor.
In the summer, downtown Waynesville welcomes all with four street dances that take over downtown Main Street. Locals and tourists alike come out for the chance to do-si-do to traditional square dance calls and enjoy live bluegrass music, local bands, and performances by clogging teams.
A world of music and dance descends upon the Blue Ridge Mountains with the annual Folkmoot USA Festivals held every July in Waynesville. As one of the largest and longest-running international festivals, the event features musicians and dancers from across the globe and includes performances and workshops.
Fall brings more than beautiful foliage to the mountains of Maggie Valley. Bluegrass and family fun descend upon the area with the Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival in late October. This family-friendly musical event features award-winning bluegrass bands, music-themed vendors, raffles, local art and art demonstrations, local food, and kids’ activities.
Balsam Range’s Art of Music Festival is a bluegrass lover’s dream, with nightly performances by award-winning Balsam Range. Held in December at Lake Junaluska, NC, the two-day event features music workshops, jam sessions, and performances by other acclaimed bluegrass musicians and groups.
Not to Miss in Haywood County
- Boojum Brewing is located in downtown Waynesville. It features 16 house-brewed beers and a full lunch and dinner menu. Downstairs, a craft cocktail bar is open to the 21+ crowd. There’s always a fun event happening—karaoke, trivia, or live music.
- Frog Level Brewing is a micro-brewery that offers family and pet-friendly vibes with an active music scene. The taproom and creekside beer garden serve flagship and seasonal brews, and the robust food menu offers pub favorites and unique, tasty options.
- Lake Junaluska is home to the Stuart Auditorium and Balsam Range’s Art of Music Festival and is a scenic place of natural beauty any time of year. The space hosts various events throughout the year and features walking paths, gardens, sacred spaces, and many outdoor activities.
- Old Time Music in downtown Waynesville is a fun spot to take a selfie and is part of the city’s public art trail. The cheerful and larger-than-life folk art statues are made from scrap metal by Stefan Bonitz and have been cataloged by the Smithsonian for their unique handmade elements using recycled materials.
- PlottFest is a celebration of North Carolina’s state dog, the Plott Hound. Hosted by historian and dog breeder, Bob Plott and his production company Mountain Memories Productions, the festival features Plott Hound competitions, concerts, heritage demonstrations, craftsman vendors, and food. Don’t miss this special celebration of hounds and heritage!
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