Starting in early April, the blossoms of the native flame azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum) ignite and start creeping up the mountain sides culminating in a mid-June show of vibrant hues at Hooper Bald.
WHY HOOPER BALD IS WORTH THE JOURNEY
The existence of a uncommon stand of native flame azaleas atop Hooper Bald and the group’s dedication to preserving and celebrating this pure surprise earned Robbinsville an official “Azalea Metropolis” designation from the Azalea Society of America. These native azaleas are situated adjoining to the scenic Cherohala Skyway and produce a number of the largest blossoms wherever. As soon as inside what is called the azalea maze, hikers uncover blossoms ranging in colour from lemon yellow, to good orange and deep crimson.
CELEBRATE AT THE FLAME AZALEA FESTIVAL — Saturday, June twentieth
The Flame Azalea Competition is the annual spotlight of the season. This yr’s occasion takes place on Saturday, June twentieth, from 10:00 AM to six:00 PM at 301 Sweetwater Street.
Admission is free, and donations to Graham County Hearth & Rescue are appreciated.
This family-friendly occasion has one thing for everybody:
Academic Workshops & Demonstrations
Hooper Bald azaleas and different native varieties might be out there for buy. Specialists might be available to reply questions on soil preparation, daylight wants, companion planting, and long-term care.
Competition training classes with representatives from the North Carolina Arboretum and the Azalea Society of America, together with regional horticultural specialists will share steerage on native plant conservation and cultivation.
Curious minds of all ages can study azalea propagation, rivercane conservation, pure dyes and extra. Vintage tractors add a nostalgic contact.
Glass Blowing Workshops (Pre-Competition Elective Add-On)
Participate in a glass blowing workshop led by famend artist Devan Cole of Sizzling Glass Academy and craft your individual colourful glass flower — an ideal memento of your go to.
Reside Music & Native Performances
From bluegrass and Americana to conventional Appalachian tunes, musical performances all through the day present the right soundtrack to summer season within the mountains. Chatham County Line will headline this yr’s celebration – click on for the complete pageant lineup.
Artisans, Crafts, and Native Makers
Browse handmade items, pottery, work, and distinctive crafts impressed by the area’s pure magnificence and heritage.
Scrumptious Meals & Drink
Take pleasure in meals vans, native candy and savory treats, and seasonal specialties — there’s one thing to swimsuit everybody’s style.
EXPLORE BLOOMS BEYOND THE FESTIVAL
However don’t let the pageant be the one spotlight of your journey. By first visiting the Companions of Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness sales space to be taught in regards to the historical past and ecosystems of Graham County’s distinctive balds you may depart the pageant ready for a profitable self-guided hike by way of the ‘azalea maze’ on Hooper Bald.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Late spring and early summer season with their heat days and misty mountain mornings, are among the many most stunning occasions of yr to go to Graham County.
When planning your go to remember that bloom season varies with elevation — decrease elevations akin to Stecoah and Tapoco may even see colour in late March, April, and early Might whereas greater elevations like Hooper Bald peak later.
Mix your azalea-season getaway with:
- Farm-to-table eating and native hospitality
For probably the most relaxed expertise, take into account planning your go to midweek. Weekday journey presents lighter visitors, simpler eating reservations, extra lodging availability, and a slower tempo to actually savor the panorama.
Whether or not you might be looking for colour, looking for journey, or just looking for peace, Graham County is North Carolina’s Pure Vacation spot.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, June twentieth, and come take pleasure in the colour, tradition and group that make this season so particular. FlameAzaleaFestival.com
