Ellijay is known as the Apple Capital of Georgia, due to its wide number of apple orchards. Additionally, they host the Georgia Apple Festival every year. This beloved fall tradition attracts approximately 55,000 people from across the Southeast. Beginning in 1971, the festival has grown from a small arts & crafts show to a major event, featuring hundreds of vendors and fun activities. The dates of the Ellijay Apple Festival 2026 are October 11-12 and October 18-19.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about the Apple Festival in Ellijay, GA. We’ll take a look at the festival’s history and attractions, along with planning tips and where to stay in the North Georgia Mountains. In fact, Ellijay cabin rentals are always a fantastic choice.
Please note: You should call any of the places you’re interested in going to. Confirm their hours and availability before making the trip.
History of the Georgia Apple Festival
n 1971, Ellijay decided to put on a small festival to celebrate local apple growers and their heritage in the North Georgia Mountains. Its true origins, however, date back to the 1920s. Cotton was the area’s biggest crop until the boll weevil showed up and destroyed it. The only way Gilmer County could survive was by falling back on its apple orchards. Since then, they’ve provided a backbone for Gilmer County’s economy.
The first festival was quite small, but it eventually grew into a major event in North Georgia. Over time, an annual parade became one of the most notable events. Now, it’s intrinsically linked to Ellijay’s apple orchards and the fall harvest season.
When and Where the Festival Happens
The Ellijay Apple Festival 2026 takes place at the Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds, located at 1729 S Main Street, Ellijay, GA 30540. Dates and hours are:
- Saturday, October 11: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday, October 12: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is $10 per person. Children 12 and under are admitted for free. Unfortunately, pets are not permitted, although service animals are allowed. Also, be aware that the Georgia Apple Festival runs as a mostly cash-only operation.
- Saturday, October 18: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday, October 19: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
There are four parking lots within walking distance. These include:
- Ellijay Lions Club – 1729 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA 30540
- Gilmer County Civic Center – 1561 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA 30540
- Gilmer County Parks & Rec – 2150 Old Hwy 5, Ellijay, GA 30540
- Gilmer County Parks & Rec – 1361 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA 30540
If you prefer to take a shuttle, there are six places where you can park and ride. Please note that service animals are not permitted on any shuttle.
- Ellijay Elementary School – 32 McCutchen Street, Ellijay, GA 30540
- Gilmer County Head Start – 305 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay 30540
- Downtown Ellijay – Hipp Street, Ellijay, GA 30540
- Mountain View Elementary School – 350 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 30540
- Gilmer High School – 408 Bobcat Trail, Ellijay, GA 30540
- Larry Walker Education Center -1860 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA 30540
Larry Walker Education Center features handicapped parking, along with accessible buses.
What to Expect at the Festival
As one of the biggest things to do in Ellijay, GA, the Georgia Apple Festival packs a lot of fun into two consecutive weekends. For instance, there will be more than 300 vendor booths jam-packed with handmade arts and crafts. When you get hungry, you’ll find plenty of apple-related options, including fried pies, apple fritters, candied apples, cider and other local specialties.
The two major highlights of opening weekend are the parade and a classic car show. There will also be plenty of performances and live music, plus tons of kid-friendly activities.
Of course, there are several apple orchards in Ellijay where you can pick and buy a variety of different apples. Four of them specifically have u-pick events on the books throughout the Apple Festival in Ellijay, GA.
- Hillcrest Orchards
- R&A Orchards
- Red Apple Barn
- BJ Reece Orchards
Family-Friendly Activities
As one of the family-friendly festivals in Georgia, your kids will have plenty to hold their interest. First off, there are areas where children can play that include inflatables. Furthermore, there are apple-themed contests and crafts. Also, small kids can take a pony ride!
Exploring Downtown Ellijay During Festival Weekends
Are you looking for things to do near the Ellijay Apple Festival? Fortunately, Ellijay itself offers plenty of other interesting opportunities. Enjoy shopping at the many antique stores, boutiques and galleries in Downtown Ellijay. Some of these spots include Misty Hollow Antiques on Main Street, Rustic Roots Boutique on River Street, and High Country Art in nearby Blue Ridge, GA.
When you’re ready to nosh, there are tons of restaurants and coffee shops. Two noteworthy options are The Butcher and Bottle and the River Street Tavern, both located on River Street. Mountain Town Coffee at Hemlock Bazaar sells absolutely delicious coffee and treats. Or, if you prefer some wine, head to Cartecay Wine & Craft’s tasting room on South Main.
You can also find several other North Georgia fall festivals and events in the nearby area. For example, the 2026 Apple Arts Festival runs concurrently with the Georgia Apple Festival. The main difference? The Apple Arts Festival is free and pet-friendly! Also, the House of Applejay has a fall festival in Georgia October 11-12 for those 21+. They’ll be serving cocktails inspired by the North Georgia Mountains.
Tips for Visiting the Apple Festival
As one of the family-friendly festivals in Georgia, you might be wondering what to expect at the Ellijay Apple Festival. Also, tips for visiting the Apple Festival will make your first trip much easier.
Speaking of which, our first tip is to arrive early so you can grab a good parking spot and avoid some of the traffic. Next, ensure you bring cash because many vendors don’t accept credit cards. Plan for big crowds, especially the first Saturday. Ellijay Apple Festival 2026 can be difficult to dress for. We suggest wearing layers. That way, you’ll be ready for a cool morning and warmer afternoon.
Finally, you’ll find many nearby hikes, waterfalls and wineries. So, why not plan to combine your trip? Hiking near Ellijay, GA, is easy to find. Check out places such as:
- Tumbling Waters Trail
- Amicaloloa Falls State Park
- Bear Creek
There are 14 wineries in Ellijay, along with several more wineries near Ellijay. A few of the best suggestions include:
- Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery
- Buckley Vineyards
- Ott Vineyards and Winery
Escape to Ellijay Cabin Rentals: Stay Close to the Festival
If you’re wondering where to stay in Ellijay, why not choose cabins in Ellijay, GA? In fact, Escape to Ellijay cabin rentals will put you just a few miles from the Georgia Apple Festival. Discover the convenience and joy of staying in an Ellijay cabin rental vs. making the drive from Chattanooga or Atlanta for a day. After all, being close by provides stress-free travel. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the many amenities of these cabins in the North Georgia Mountains. Relax in a hot tub, take in the mountain views, and use the kitchen to cook yourself some apple treats.
There are four cabins you can choose from:
- The Oaks on Blackberry – This pet-friendly cabin sleeps up to six guests. It features a hot tub and an EV charger.
- Vine and Branches – Boasting a hot tub and outdoor firepit, this cabin provides room for six guests. It’s located just five minutes away from some of the area’s wineries.
- Fern Gully – Make yourself some delicious dinner with this cabin’s outdoor pizza oven. Sleeps up to four guests.
- Mossy Rock – Enjoy this secluded tiny cabin that features an outdoor grill and fire pit. Suitable for two guests.
Beyond the Festival: More Fall Fun in Ellijay
There is nothing better than attending the Georgia Apple Festival, then heading out for apple picking in North Georgia. Apple orchards in Ellijay include B.J. Reece and Hillcrest Orchards. You can also enjoy scenic drives in Ellijay and throughout the North Georgia Mountains. Two of the most noteworthy drives are the Russell-Brasstown Byway and the Georgia Mountain Parkway.
Other things to do near the Ellijay Apple Festival include hiking at Fort Mountain State Park or Amicalola Falls. Additionally, take in some autumn tasting at local wineries and breweries. Some places to check out include:
- Cartecay River Brewing Co.
- Fainting Goat Vineyards
- Roo Mountain Vineyards
Enjoy Your Weekend Getaway to Ellijay
If you’re looking for the best time to experience Ellijay, we recommend coming during the Georgia Apple Festival. You’ll find plenty to do, including enjoying several varieties of apples. You can also stay in one of the cabins near Ellijay, GA. Booking into one of the Escape to Ellijay cabin rentals provides a cozy and ultra-convenient stay.
Are you interested in exploring everything Ellijay has to offer? Be sure to book your cabin rental today!
