Posts Tagged ‘north georgia’

Anytime of Year You’ll Find Southern Comfort Here… As 2011 ends and the New Year begins, Blue Ridge is gearing up for the winter season, and we want you to join us!

It may be cold outside, but the deals are hot at Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals. See Cabin Rental Specials

Winter time means less congestion around town, and more of a selection when booking your favorite North Georgia Mountain cabin rental. January through March is prime shopping time in Downtown Blue Ridge. Local shops will have winter discounts throughout town, so make sure to take advantage while you still can!

There’s nothing better than sitting outside on the deck of your cabin rental with a cup of coffee or cocoa and experiencing a Blue

Ridge sunrise. You’ll be wowed by the incredible long range mountain views, picturesque vistas and charming wildlife. Add to that a dusting of snow, and you’ll be in the midst of your own winter wonderland!

Looking for a romantic getaway? It’s time to queue up the Barry White music, lay out a blanket near the fire and cozy up with that special someone. Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals offers several romantic packages, including everything from roses, to chocolates to fruits and even champagne. Start the new year off right with the loved one who knows you best, and treat them to a  memorable stay in the North Georgia Mountains with Southern Comfort.

Call 706-258-3737 to speak with a reservations agent to plan your escape today! Find Quality With Us.

Trout Fishing in and Around Fannin County in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia

Fannin County is blessed with a watershed that creates a large and diverse trout stream  network.  The foundation of the watershed is the Toccoa River, a medium-sized, wadable river which actually consists of two distinct and different fisheries:  The freestone stream above the dam and the Tailwater below it.  Each section of the Toccoa has its advantages.  In addition to the Toccoa itself, the watershed contains literally hundreds of trout streams from tiny higher elevation water containing native brook trout to lower elevation streams dominated by rainbow and brown trout.  Some waters in Fannin can be fished within sight of a parked vehicle while others offer the opportunity for wilderness walk-in fishing where few others tread. It’s all here in Fannin for visitors and locals to explore and enjoy.

Here are some of the most popular trout destinations in and close to Fannin County:

Toccoa River Tailwater: The Tailwater, as it is called locally, runs from Blue Ridge dam to the Tennessee State line and is fishable throughout year-round thanks to the fact that the water in the Tailwater comes chiefly from the colder water near the bottom of Lake Blue Ridge, it is supplemented by oxygenation on the lake bottom courtesy of the TVA, and the river is cleansed by higher flows due to periodic generation at the dam. The fish are healthy, diverse in size due to holdover fish, and located throughout the length of the river. The advantages are year-round fishing, heavily stocked by Georgia DNR, floatable and wadable sections with public access at the dam, Tammen Park, Curtis Switch Bridge, and Horseshoe Bend Park. The disadvantages are the need to know the generation schedule and to be constantly vigilant for scheduled and unscheduled releases and the fact that public access is limited to the locations noted above.  Even where the river is visible from the road between the public access points, fishing without landowner permission is prohibited.  Floating through private lands on canoes, kayaks, float tubes, or pontoon boats, however, is permitted and commonly done, but the floats between access points will take take 6-8 hours depending on the amount of time one fishes. TVA Blue Ridge Dam information:  To get daily releases: dial 800-238-2264 then 423. Releases for the next day are available after 4 pm.

Toccoa River above Lake Blue Ridge: The Toccoa River is a magnificent fishery in its beauty, diversity, and quality during certain times of the year.  It is a year-round fishery, but hot-summer months can substantially curtail trout fishing in July, August, and early September when water temperature exceed comfort levels for trout, especially in the lower elevations closer to Lake Blue Ridge.  Much of the Toccoa is private, but miles of the river run through the Chattahoochee National Forest, including a 1.2 mile section with special Delayed Harvest (DH) regulations (See Georgia Fishing Regs).  From November 1-May 14, the river is stocked with lots of trout, including some 15-20 inch fish. Much of the Toccoa River on public lands is accessible by paved and forest service road.  One can literally fish in sight of the car, including some sections of the DH. Sections of the river susceptible to summer heat will also hold largemouth Bass, shoal bass, smallmouth bass and other warm water species instead of or in addition to trout. Occasionally private landowners will give permission to fish, but some sections of the Toccoa River are closed to public fishing when by landowners on both sides of the river.  Signs are prominent in those sections of the river. When in doubt, stick to public lands.

Coopers Creek: This tributary of the Toccoa River is in the Chattahoochee National Forest off Hwy 60 near Suches, Georgia, and offers camping, hiking, and fishing.  There is a public campground and parking area.  In addition, the creek may be accessed by Forest Service road in its upper sections.  Coopers Creek stocked and operates under general trout regulations.  This is an excellent and beautiful place for public fishing.  Advantages:  Good for families. Disadvantages:  Smaller water and heavily used.

Rock Creek: This public access fishery is open year-round and boasts frequent stocking and the side benefit of the USFWS Hatchery off Hwy 60 near Suches.  The Hatchery conducts public education and tours and feeds the trout daily.  Rock Creek flows through the Hatchery and is accessible by forest service road for several miles below the Hatchery.  It is heavily used, but a fun place to fish.  Advantages:  Great for families.  Disadvantages: Smaller water and heavily used.  Hint:  For the technical fly fisher or spin fisher, Little Rock Creek is a tributary of Rock Creek, the upper portions of which may be accessed by a forest service road off the Hatchery Road offers backwoods small stream fishing for tiny trout.  This is less used.  The stream is small and somewhat enclosed by vegetation; and the fish are small, but born in the stream, as this stream is not stocked.

Wilderness Fishing

Noontootla Creek: This is a gem of a stream operated year-round under special regulations on size of fish and type of gear and wilderness license (See Georgia Fishing Regs).  It is a favorite of fly fishermen.  Surprisingly, the public sections of Noontootla are easily accessible by a forest service road that runs the length of the public section.  It is beautiful and holds surprisingly decent sized fish for its size.  It is not stocked, so these are resident fish.  The fishing is quite technical.  Advantages:  Beautiful small stream fishing easily accessible and an ace in the hole when lower waters are swollen with rain. Disadvantages:  Technical fishing, some pressure especially on weekends, and decreased chances of success if someone fishes before you do.  Hint:  Rainy days that take away some clarity of the water will make the fishing easier.  Note:  There is a private, trophy section of Noontootla Creek accessible only by appointment with a guide on a fee basis.  This is a protected, limited access trophy water within 30 minutes of  downtown Blue Ridge.

Jacks and Connasauga Rivers: These are two premier trout streams in the Cohutta Wilderness. Both rivers hold resident fish in a magnificent setting on public lands. .  Jacks is a Mar-October fishery and the Connie is open year-round (See Georgia Fishing Regs).  The trail distances distance in and out are formidable, but worth it to the wilderness fisher.  A wilderness trout license is required.

Small Stream Fishing

Fannin County boasts hundreds of miles of trout streams, as do nearby counties .  Some trout streams are on private land and others are not practically fishable.  However many small streams offer wonderful opportunities for seasonal and year-round fishing.  Some are fairly accessible and others are more remote. Naming small streams in a forum like this ruins their appeal and ambience by having crowds descend upon them.  There are, however, sources of information from which a determined fisherman can locate wonderful places.  Unicoi Fly Shop and local book stores in Blue Ridge have books for sale on North Georgia fishing with information on all the aforementioned streams and many of our smaller streams as well. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources publishes a comprehensive trout fishing guide to Georgia, available for free at the Fannin Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center.

Big Creek: This pristine mountain stream is almost 100%  private. The only way to fish this stream is by invitation by a land owner or private guide service such as Upper River Adventures. A year round dense canopy offer many shady and cool areas. Couple this with deep well maintained holes and you will find the perfect habitat for several species of mountain trout.

Some guides and outfitters have access to terrific private access water with limited traffic  such as Noontootla Creek Farms,  Mountaintown Creek, Big Creek, and Frog Hollow.  Check with local fly shops, the Blue Ridge Adventure Center  for availability and fees.

Surrounding Areas

Fannin County is in the epicenter of trout fishing in North Georgia. In addition to the rivers and streams right around Blue Ridge, within an hour more or less west (Tennessee), North (North Carolina) and East (Clayton County, Ga.) one may find excellent trout fishing in the Cherokee National Forest, Nantahala River, and Chattooga River.  In addition, within the similar distances are special regulation areas at Dukes Creek (Smithgall Woods), Amicalola Creek, Waters Creek and other terrific public fisheries, not to mention private water trophy experiences.

Fishing is Fishing

Dare we mention Lake Blue Ridge and Lake Nottely? These lakes provide awesome destination fishing in their own right for numerous species other than trout. How about fishing for bass and bream on ponds and surrounding lakes or fishing for shoal bass or smallmouth in the Toccoa River?

WHERE TO GO FOR INFORMATION

Download  printable safety information on the Toccoa River Tailwater here

TVA Blue Ridge Dam information:  To get daily releases: dial 800-238-2264 then 423. Releases for the next day are available after 4 pm.

Fannin Chamber of Commerce: Orvin Lance Extension off Hwy 515 (behind CVS);

Unicoi Outfitters and guide service: 490 E. Main Street, Blue ridge, GA 30513. www.Unicoioutfitters.com

Fishing Guides: There are numerous north Georgia trout fishing guides in the Blue Ridge area. Contact Upper River Adventures for Private Guided Trout Fishing in the Aska Adventure Area

Current Georgia Sport Fishing Regulations, available at the Chamber of Commerce, Unicoi Outfitters, or anywhere licenses are sold and online See our local area guide to buy a fishing license in Georgia

Blue Ridge Mountain Trout Unlimited, is local, extremely active TU chapter meets monthly on the second Saturday of each month, 9 am at the Chamber of Commerce. TU and its members are dedicated to preserving trout waters but provide a public service of information on fishing and fishing safety in the area.

SOURCE: Blue Ridge Mountain Trout Unlimited

Special thanks to YOU… The Fans, Volunteers, City of Blue Ridge, Fannin County Chamber of Commerce & The Humane Society of Blue Ridge.

September 10th, 2011 was an exciting day as several thousand locals and tourists flocked to Downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia for the first annual Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival.  The sun was shining, the temperature was mild, and the smell BBQ filled the air.

The event was hosted by the Blue Ridge Lodging Association, and was run like a well-oiled machine thanks to Beverly Seckinger of Seckinger Productions and Sue Ann Morgan, president of ideaLand. Gate entry was quick and efficient, volunteers were helpful, and there were plenty of bathrooms and trash receptacles on the festival grounds.

Vendors were positioned along East Main Street and West Main Street, and featured Blue Ridge’s finest foods and products.

“Have you tried the alligator ribs yet?” asked one enthused festival attendee in between sips of Sweetwater beer. “I just had a fish taco too, and it was amazing. You’ve got to stop by Blue Orleans’ spot and some of the other food tents and check out the food.”

Such was the sentiment of all those who came to the North Georgia mountains for the event. With everything from brisket sliders courtesy of Harvest on Main to delectable fried pies from Mercier Orchards, it was hard to save room for the award-winning BBQ from Sam’s BBQ-1 and the plethora of other BBQ vendors. Enthusiasts were abound, as wait times for the ‘cue ran up to 20 minutes.

But the food wasn’t the only reason that so many came out to partake in the festivities. One couldn’t forget the authentic, soul-soothing Blues provided by Frankie’s Blues Mission, Blacktop Blues Band and The King Bees who played throughout the day, creating an almost palpable character and flavor that added to everyone’s enjoyment.

“I just can’t wait for Francine Reed to take the stage,” said Professor Phil Unger from Reinhardt University. “She’s a really big deal in the Blues community. I was at another BBQ event on Labor Day, and even there they mentioned her coming to Blue Ridge today.”

As the sun went down and night time came, the moon shone brightly on those that gathered and danced to the soulful styling of the Blues legend. It was the perfect scene to end a great day.

As the people of our great nation remember those who lost their lives in the tragic attacks on September 11, 2001 we are reminded that it is events like the Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ festival that truly pay homage to our American culture. It is proof that the American spirit lives on defiantly in the face of adversity and threat. Through distinctly American food and song, that spirit was honored as all who came out gathered together as one, celebrating those things that truly define the Southeast and American culture as a whole.

Add your thoughts and comments here or on the official Downtown Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ facebook page

Action, adventure, relaxation, and good times await your arrival in Blue Ridge, GA… Here’s whats happening in Blue Ridge Georgia October 2011!

Postmortem – Blue Ridge Community Theater 2591 East 1st Street across from The Swan Drive-In
By Ken Ludwig. (You may remember his other plays the theater has done, Lend Me a Tenor, Leading Ladies and Moon Over Buffalo which were all sellouts) This clever thriller is set in a magnificent pseudo-medieval castle on a bluff overlooking the Connecticut River. Here, an avid Sherlock Holmes actor has invited guests for a séance. The scene is set for murder, humor and intrigue and the actor works to solve the case himself, à la his alter-ego, Sherlock Holmes. Rated R (mature subject matter, language and suspense) Friday’s at 7:30 and Sunday’s at 2:00 p.m.  Blue Ridge Community Theater Box Office or you may purchase tickets online 706-632-9223 Visit web site

John C. Campbell Fall Festival – Brasstown, N.C. October 01, 2011- October 02, 2011
Celebrate the rich heritage of the Appalachians at the annual fall festival, featuring over 180 juried and non-juried crafts people. Continous Live Music and dance, craft demonstrations good food and much more!
John C. Campbell Folk School 800-365-5724 Visit web site

Indian Summer Festival – Suches, Ga Woody Gap School October 01, 2011- October 02, 2011
Car Show ~ Music ~ Pottery ~ Quilts ~ Home made Goodies ~ Leather Crafts ~ Needlework ~ Folk Art Jewelry ~ Furniture ~ ~ Photographs ~ Stained Glass ~ Whirligigs ~ More Free Parking, Admission is $4.00 Children under 6 are free.
Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce  706-747-2401 Visit web site

Grace and Glorie – Blue Ridge Community Theater 2591 East 1st Street across from The Swan Drive-In
By Tom Ziegler. Grace is Velveeta and Wonder Bread and Gloria is Brie and lobster. Grace can’t read or write and Gloria can’t figure out Grace’s wood stove. Gloria volunteers for Hospice, an organization that, among other things, helps the terminally ill live their last days comfortably. Grace is her uncooperative new assignment. This tightly crafted play explores the differences and similarities between the two women. The contrast results in a touching and funny play. Rated PG (language) Showtimes on Thursday’s, Friday’s and Saturday’s at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday’s at 2:00 p.m.
Blue Ridge Community Theater Box Office or On-line 706-632-9223 Visit web site

Georgia Mountain Fall Festival – Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Hiawassee, Ga. October 07, 2011- October 15, 2011
Arts, crafts & exhibits. Clogging, singing, authentic mountain demonstrations, pioneer village, kiddie rides and a new show, Kay Rosaires Big Cat Encounter. Regional food and lots of fun for the whole family. Also included in this is the Ole Time Fiddlers Convention.  Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds 706-896-4191 Visit web site

Fall Arts in the Park – Downtown Blue Ridge City Park October 08, 2011- October 09, 2011
A southern tradition in the Spring, we are now adding a second Arts in the Park in the Fall, featuring over 200 arts, crafts and food booths. The best in mountain crafts and fine arts, artist’s demonstrations, music and dance. Arts in the Park in the Spring has been recognized as one of the Top 20 Events by the Southeastern Tourism Society. Sponsored by the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association. Admission is $5.00.
Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association 706-632-2144 Visit web site

Apple Festival – Ellijay 15 minutes west of Blue Ridge October 08, 2011- October 09, 2011 & October 15, 2011- October 16, 2011
40th Annual Apple Festival, over 300 vendors with handmade/hand crafted items, on-site demonstrations. Lots of good things to eat. Other fun things to do will be an antique car show on the 8th and a parade on the 15th.
For more information, call the County Chamber of Commerce @ 706-635-7400 or visit the web site. Visit web site

Home Builders Showcase 2011 – Downtown Blue Ridge City Park Saturday October 15, 2011- October 16, 2011 from 8-5 p.m. and Sunday from 10-5 p.m.
No admission fee and is open to the public. Exhibitors from the building industry; Architects, Builders, Cabinet Makers, Developers, Flooring, Glassworks, Heating/Cooling, Home Furnishings, Insurers, Mortgage Lenders, Realtors, Security Systems, Stonework, Surveyors and more. Food vendors & prize drawings.
Tammie / Fannin County Building Industry Association 706-632-8361 Visit web site

Mountain Harvest Arts and Craft Sale – Blue Ridge Farmer’s Market October 15, 2011- October 16, 2011 & October 22, 2011- October 23, 2011
40th Annual Event. 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Mountain Arts & Crafts, food and fun for the whole family. No admission fee and free parking. Lots of local vendors.
Fannin County Homemakers Council / Joyce Patrick 706-258-4848

Halloween Safe Zone – Blue Ridge, Downtown October 31, 2011
Hundreds of costumed kids and grown-up kids plus your pets are welcome gather in downtown Blue Ridge to celebrate. Fun begins at 6:00 and runs until 8:30. Costume contest begins at 6:15, with a pet contest at 7:30. Halloween Movies in the park beginning at dusk. 706-633-7400 Visit web site

SEE NOVEMBER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Would you like to add an event to our post? use the comments section below.

Also, see our Blue Ridge Local Area Guide to find many more events and activities in North Georgia…

Action, adventure, relaxation, and good times await your arrival in Blue Ridge, GA… Here’s whats happening in Blue Ridge Georgia September 2011!

Pickin’ in Horseshoe Bend Park Sept. 1, 8, 15
Location:  Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park , McCaysville, GA. Hwy 5 (Blue Ridge Highway) north till it ends, then right on Hwy 60 and then right on River Road, follow to the park entrance on your right.
Pickin’ in Horseshoe Bend Park – every Thursday, 6:00 PM to dusk. Live music jams and pickin’ on the banks of the Toccoa River at the Horseshoe Bend Park in McCaysville. Free Admission. And the park is wheelchair accessible. Come out, bring the whole family to enjoy the experience. Picnic tables available, nice grassy lawn but you are also welcome to bring a blanket or chair.
Fannin County Parks and Recreation 706-632-7696

Blue Ridge Farmers Market Sept. 3, 10
Location:  Historic Downtown Blue Ridge
West Main Street across from the Fannin County Courthouse.
Local farmers set up with their crops for sale, farm fresh eggs, produce etc…. also locally made products and crafts. Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Vendors pay $3.00 for market space and they set their own prices for the items they sell. They will also be offering classes on select dates with topics such as “Local Herbs,” “Cooking with fresh herbs and vegetables” Facebook users can become a fan and follow their schedules at the following link. Email contact: Linee2@tds.net Vendors contact 706-258-4552

Postmortem Sept. 8,9,10,11,6,17,18
Location:  Blue Ridge Community Theater
2591 East 1st Street across from The Swan Drive-In
By Ken Ludwig. (You may remember his other plays the theater has done, Lend Me a Tenor, Leading Ladies and Moon Over Buffalo which were all sellouts) This clever thriller is set in a magnificent pseudo-medieval castle on a bluff overlooking the Connecticut River. Here, an avid Sherlock Holmes actor has invited guests for a séance. The scene is set for murder, humor and intrigue and the actor works to solve the case himself, à la his alter-ego, Sherlock Holmes. Rated R (mature subject matter, language and suspense) Friday’s at 7:30 and Sunday’s at 2:00 p.m.
Blue Ridge Community Theater Box Office or you may purchase tickets online 706-632-9223

Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ Music Festival Sept. 10
Location:  Downtown Blue Ridge City Park
Make it weekend with your friends at Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals! Join us for this one-day festival including Sweetwater Brewery crafted beers, BBQ and food vendors from all over the state as well as regional sponsors. The festival is open to the public and will feature outstanding and well-known Blues Bands, Read more on our BLOG about the Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ Festival

Blue Ridge Stand Up Paddle Race Sept. 10
Round 4 of the SUP Splash Series will be held at the Morganton Point Beach park and recreation area. This event will also feature FREE SUP lessons and exciting event starts and dramatic finish line winners! Learn more here: http://surfblueridge-sup.com/events/

Arts Association Nation Exhibit Sept 10.
Following a very successful first year photography competition in 2010, the Blue Ridge Mountain Photographers and The Art Center are co-sponsoring their Second Annual National Juried Nature and Fine Art Photography Exhibit. 100′s of photos will grace the Richard Low Evans Gallery. All entries will be judged. Join us for this wonderful event. Take a look at the digital world of photography from across the nation. The show will open with a reception on September 10 from 5pm to 7pm and the exhibit will remain on display through October 9. This exhibit will be featured during the Fall Arts in the Park Festival taking place the second weekend in October 2011.

Ride the Rails Festival Sept. 17 & 18
Location:  Mineral Bluff
150 Railroad Avenue (Hwy 60 north, railroad avenue is next street on your left after the stop sign at Spur 60)
8th Annual Event. A 5 mile round trip by railroad motor car traveling through the Iron Bridge over the beautiful Toccoa River, then returning over the bridge back to the beautiful Mineral Bluff Depot. Train ride donations: $10.00 for adults $5.00 Children 2 to 12. Food, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Hot Fresh Coffee, Cold Soft Drinks, Model Train Sales, Tee Shirts, Motor Car Display Area and Local Vendors. A fun day for all! Visit the depot and see the progress being made on our large “HO” gauge model railroad based on the “Old Line” from Atlanta to Etoway, TN and through Mineral Bluff to Murphy, NC! Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Special! Mtn. Country Music by: Ralph Baker and the Stateline Band
For more information706-455-8903

Would you like to add an event to our post? use the comments section below.

Also, see our Blue Ridge Local Area Guide to find many more events and activities in North Georgia…

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals and the Big Peach Running Company to compete in Tri the Mountains Triathlon July 24, 2011

Be sure to come out and support our Team! Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals will be competing in the relay division of  Tri the Mountains a sprint Triathlon in the North Georgia mountains! When Heather and CJ Stam of Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals worked as volunteers at the 2010 race a friendly challenge was cast by one of the owners and now title sponsor Escape to Blue Ridge. Not one to shy away from a friendly nudge, we answered the call! A team of three racers will each take one leg of the race. CJ Stam of Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals will start with a splash into a 600 yard fresh water swim in Lake Blue Ridge. Followed by Greg Dunn a local personal trainer and former professional cyclist who will then venture out and  on his road bike over an 18 mile mountain course. then our anchor Mike Cosentino of the Big Peach Running Company will then dash 3.2 miles from the Marina to Downtown Blue Ridge.

Spectators, family, friends and support teams will all cheer as racers enter the Historic town of Blue Ridge to cross the finish line. The 2011 Triathlon is presented by local businesses Escape to Blue Ridge and Harvest on Main along with several national name brands. Tri the Mountains is a non profit organization and pledges a portion of all proceeds to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Be sure to stick around for awards ceremony to see the winners take their prizes in the shade of the city park.

An epic event like Tri the Mountains reinforces why Blue Ridge is your base camp for adventure in the North Georgia Mountains. Racers, day trippers, tourist and Blue Ridge locals should all consider putting this high energy family friendly event on your schedule every year!

Independence day celebration in the north Georgia mountains

Whether you call it the Old Timers Parade, Old Timey Parade or just the 2^nd of July parade, Downtown Blue Ridge will kick off the 4^th of July weekend with a blast! Bring the whole family out and celebrate the independence of our great country beginning at 10:00a.m.

The day starts with the annual parade, which begins its march on West Main Street in Historic Downtown Blue Ridge near the

playground. Kids will fall in love with the floats and attractions, including Maggie the Mayfield Cow, Brooster the Giant Rooster and Grand Marshall Colonel George Pletcher. The parade will then veer left on Mountain Street, where it will continue on to cross the train depot and conclude on East Main Street.

After the parade, gather your family and friends in Blue Ridge City Park and enjoy the “alterna – grass” sound of the Roxie – Watson Band from Atlanta. Lovers of blue grass and good times can kick back in front of the stage setup and enjoy the music with an adult beverage from the beer tent provided. Visitors can stretch their legs and visit the Blue Ridge Farmers Market where farm fresh produce and locally made products will be for sale. All local vendors and eclectic shops in Downtown Blue Ridge will be open for business. Also don’t forget to enjoy BBQ and live music from local talent at the Blue Ridge Lake Marina, starting at 4p.m.

As the sun begins to go down, don’t forget to stick around for the breathtaking fireworks display. Visitors are encouraged to take in the views from atop the Lake Blue Ridge Dam, which will be open starting at 7p.m.(Dam is closed to cars, visitors must park and then walk to the Dam). Parking is available in all marked spaces, and also at the Fannin County Recreation Department. Come out this July 4^th weekend and have a great time with your friends and family in Historic Downtown Blue Ridge.

Be sure to stop by the Blue Ridge Adventure Center and see your friends at Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals while you celebrate freedom!

And it was a beautiful weekend to do just that in Blue Ridge.

I had the amazing opportunity to attend the Blue Ridge Arts in The Park Festival this past Memorial Day weekend.  I hope some of you took me up on my offer to come frolic as well.  I spent most of my time there on Sunday, and I got to meet so many unbelievably talented artists.  I felt blessed just to be in their presence.  Being an artist myself, I know the courage it takes to put yourself and your art out into an arena like that.  It is an extremely vulnerable undertaking.  I commend each and every person who had the courage to do what they did.

As I wandered around the park in downtown Blue Ridge, I lazily stopped in to booth after booth.

There were a few that really caught my eye. One of the first was Michael Lee’s booth.  The tag line on his business card says “Poetry of Motion Captured in Oil”.  That’s all he had to say.  I was transfixed. I was immediately drawn to his equestrian paintings, as I grew up with a “horse person”, and have an ingrained appreciation for those majestic, magical creatures.  You can find more of his art on his website.

I also ran into this character, Robert C. Perry.  He’s a folk artist, and his art is incredibly creative and eye-catching.  Most of what he had displayed were wood carvings, some black and white, some bursting with color.  All of them had a magnetic quality that drew me into his world.  I hung around and talked to him for a bit, and I felt like I was a guest in his home.  See more of his beautiful work here.

I am particularly fond of art that has a humorous side to it, and I was drawn in to Frank Gee’s booth.  Here’s why:

Aren’t those two of the greatest paintings you’ve ever seen?  Please take the time to check out his website.  His paintings of birds cracked me up, and I learned things about gorillas I had never known.  Also, any of his paintings with “breast” in the title… well, I’ll let you see for yourself.

The next booth I walked by had this proudly displayed outside:

I was a goner.  For some reason, anything made out of chains or barbed wire is just…cool.  I also have a disturbing fascination with snakes.  My mom, who joined me this weekend, was quick to point out the symbolism of the apple, which was placed in front of the snake.  This may be the source of some future therapy… I’ll keep you posted.  Tom Shumaker, the proud artist of this unique booth, aptly named “Barbed Creation”, was a very kind soul for someone who works with barbed wire.  He offered to answer any questions we had, the first of which was “How many scars do you have?”  He quickly showed me both arms and hands, scar free.  I was duly impressed.  So impressed, actually, that I will be interviewing him for a piece on my own blog, where I highlight one artist, once a month.  It should be a very interesting interview!  Here is another of Tom’s fine creations:

I strolled by this motley crew as they were testing their mics for what I’m sure was an amazing set of folk music and fun in front of the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association.  If you haven’t already, check out the history of this beautiful building here.  Better yet, mosey on up to Blue Ridge, and check it out yourself.  It’s worth a trip on it’s own, not to mention the rest of the town.

Another booth where I felt drawn to dawdle was Pam Nelson Smith’s booth.  What first caught my eye was an oil painting of a young ballerina.  I am a sucker for pictures of ballerinas, as I was one myself years ago.  They are so graceful and poised, and when an artist is able to catch this on film or canvas, I’m sold.  Her paintings ranged from children running and playing, women on horse back, and portraits of famous people, namely Johnny Depp.  (Okay fine, this was really what caused me to stick around.)  I spent some time talking to Pam, and found her to be very open and  genuine, two qualities I really admire in a person.  Please take the time to check out her website.  Her art will help you breathe easier.  Good art will do that to ya.

My last stop before the sun did me in was at Bebo Folk Art. His colorful signs and spectacular wood carvings of snakes, butterflies and other “critters” are indicative of the joy that radiates from Bebo.  I spent a good amount of time talking to Bebo about his work, and he has graciously agreed to let me use the pictures I took of some of his paintings on one of my personal social media sites.  He is a man filled with joy and enthusiasm for life, and this shows through his art.

So, I reluctantly parted ways with Bebo, and headed back to the car to meet my mom and our dog, who had long ago retreated to the A/C.  I am so grateful that I was able to spend  time among the incredibly talented and creative people I met this weekend.  I was humbled by the experience, and inspired to be the best artist I can be.  Thanks to the Blue Ridge Arts Center for making this a possibility for all of us, and also to the town of Blue Ridge for welcoming us so graciously.

All pictures used with permission of the artists.

Kick off your vacation season at the Blue Ridge Arts in the Park Festival!

When I attended the Blue Ridge Writer’s Conference in April, my favorite part was when the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association

Director stood up and said something to the effect of “our plan for Blue Ridge is for it to be an art town.”  This is why I love Blue Ridge and it’s people.  They are shamelessly promoting art, creativity, and the freedom to come to Blue Ridge and be who you are.  I believe by now I have made it apparent that I love Blue Ridge, Georgia.  It is my home away from home. My own personal getaway and creative outlet.  When I go there, I feel free to let my freak flag fly. My creative juices start flowing, and I am overcome by it’s beauty and magic.  Ideas and inspiration bubble up from my core and explode in showers of color and light. Blue Ridge is a mere 90 minutes from Atlanta, yet I feel as if I’m in another world as soon as I turn down Main Street.  This is why I’m so looking forward to attending the 35th Annual Blue Ridge Arts in the Park Festival this weekend.

From what I understand, there are over 200 juried (that means judged by people who matter) arts, crafts, and food booths (I’m sorry, did someone say food?  Lots of food?  Where do I sign up?!).  Not to mention live music, train rides, activities for the kids, and various other enticing attractions for us artsy types.  I’m sure even non-artsy types will love it! The nucleus of this artistic supernova is at Downtown City Park, though I hear it oozes out into downtown Blue Ridge, with some of the live music acts performing directly in front of the Arts Center, housed in the historic Fannin County Courthouse.  Admission is 5 bucks, and kids get in for free. The festivities begin at 10am, and go until 5pm.  Arts in the Park has been going strong for 35 years, is attended by over 15,000 people, and is ranked one of the Top 20 Events by the Southeastern Tourism Society.  But y’know, no big deal…

Not to mention the time I will get to spend roaming around Main Street and lazily perusing it’s many art galleries, furniture stores, fabulous boutiques, and fudge shops.  So much fudge, so little time.

I am beside myself excited to be there this weekend.  What better location for a festival dedicated to the creative genius of so many talented people than the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains?  What better town, than a self-proclaimed arts town to host it?  I believe that a convergence of creativity, love of life and beauty, and pure spirit the likes of which will be at this festival is healing for the Earth and her people. The Earth and her people could use a little bit of healing right now. People enjoying each other, and expressing themselves and their passion for life and art is always so healing and uplifting for me.  So, my dear friends, if you’re feeling spontaneous, and would like some inspiration, fresh air, and passion in your life this weekend, please join me in Blue Ridge.  It’s sure to be a memorable weekend.

Find additional information on Festivals in the north Georgia Mountains

Divine Intervention-Direct and obvious intervention by a god in the affairs of humans. (taken from…a dictionary.)

I am a very spiritual person.  When Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals recommended a cabin for the weekend with the name “Divine Intervention”, I knew I had to stay there.  This cabin more than lived up to it’s name. I know I have a flair for the dramatic, but I am completely serious when I say that this adventure, and this cabin, made a huge impact on me.  The last time I was in Blue Ridge, I stayed at the Blue Ridge Suite, and my city girl appetite was sufficiently whetted (I looked that up, it IS a word!).  This time, I was excited and apprehensive about staying in a real, honest-to-goodness cabin in the woods.  The drive up from Atlanta was beautiful, as usual, and once Alison (yes, I dragged Alison along with me, again) and I picked up our keys and headed out to Cherry Log Mountain, it was almost 11pm.  I wound my car up and around the windy roads up the mountain, and eventually came to the cabin.  CJ (GM of SCCR) had mercifully left some lights on for us, and we dragged our tired bodies into the cabin, exhausted.

The first thing I noticed was the bi-level porch and deck.  The top part was screened in and had a myriad of comfortable chairs and glass tables.  The bottom section was my favorite.  Not only is there a grill with a tall table and chairs, but there’s a HOT TUB!  I was beside myself with excitement, and so glad I had brought my swim suit.  Upon further investigation of the inside of the cabin, I immediately ran up the stairs and claimed the spacious loft as my own.  Hey!  I’m the writer, I get the good room!  Okay, fine, Alison can have the master next time… The loft was furnished with a queen sized bed, and even had room for a throw rug and a couch.  Not to mention it’s own little bathroom.  Oh!   And the built-in heater in the bathroom was the “cherry” on top.  And did I mention that this is a log cabin?  As in, the whole thing is made out of… logs.  It’s rustic at it’s best.

The kitchen reminded me of a real-deal, people live here and cook a whole bunch, kitchen.  There were plenty of utensils, pots and pans, and even spices!  The other two bedrooms were cozy and quaint, and Alison picked the one with the tv.  She had her own bathroom (and her own bathroom heater!) as it was just the two of us, and we happily went off to our rooms to unpack.  The first night, being as late as it was, we sat in the two story living room for an hour or so, lounging around and watching tv.  We even started a fire.  We finally turned in, as I was getting up at 7 to attend the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Center’s Writer’s Conference.

The one thing I didn’t notice about the loft the night before was the window directly across from my bed at the top of the outer wall of the cabin.  When I woke up around 7 to the faint light streaming through those windows, I sat up in bed.  I really almost cried.  Looking out those windows at 7am on a Saturday morning, in the surreal quiet of the mountains was possibly the most spiritual, serene,and shall I say it, divine moment I have ever had.  I can close my eyes right now and see and feel it all over again.  I spent a few more minutes in bed looking at the tops of the majestic trees and watching the sky change colors above them, and then realized I didn’t have my camera.  “Oh well,” I thought, “I’ll just have to come back!”  Once my day at the Writer’s Conference was over, I stopped in at the local Food Lion and bought all the fixin’s for the dinner Alison and I had planned.  We were going to make steak and burgers on the grill, and of course I stopped by Harvest on Main and picked up two sides of macaroni and cheese (yes, it’s THAT good).  I don’t think I’ll ever be able to go to Blue Ridge without eating that mac and cheese.  I acquainted myself with the glorious kitchen and got to work.  Alison was the grill master, and I handled the sides.   When we finally sat down to eat, we looked at each other in awe of our masterpiece.  And then we dug in.

About a half hour later, we languidly moved over to the couches to digest our meal.  About a half hour after that… we were giggling as we ran to our rooms to change into our swimsuits.  Under the cover of darkness, we crept out into the night and submerged ourselves in the 100 degree hot tub.  It has been years since I’ve been in a hot tub, and I had forgotten how relaxing it can be.  This is when my second moment of “divine intervention” happened.  I.looked.up.  And saw the sparkling blanket of stars that stretched across the sky for miles.  We don’t get views like this in the city, people.  I don’t know where else but the mountains you DO get views like this.  So I stared, and stared, and stared.  Until my fingers were pruney, and Alison had long since abandoned me.  I just could not stop staring.  Seeing the stars in the sky like that reminds me of how truly small I am, and what an amazing, exciting world I live in.

So, vacation enthusiasts, I am here to tell you, once again, how grateful I am to get to do what I do.  And I highly recommend you spend some time in this vacation cabin rental, and have a divine intervention of your own.

Always with you in spirit,

Jacqueline