When you tire of city living and need an escape, point your car toward the perimeter and start…read moredriving. Keep going until you see some good road kill. Squirrels don't count -- you see those in the city. I'm talking about possums, armadillos and porcupines. Chances are you'll bump into some kind of festival in a nearby small town. And that's how I discovered the Sunflower Farm Festival in Rutledge, GA over the 4th of July weekend. Barely 45 minutes away from my condo in downtown Atlanta, but a world apart, it's billed as a "Good Old Fashioned Family Fun Time In The Country!" And despite my lack of family, I did have fun. I arrived early enough on Sunday morning to catch some of the Sunday Morning Jubilee, featuring fine bluegrass gospel tunes by the Rocky Creek Band. I didn't feel so guilty about skipping church as the sweet sounds of "Just A Closer Walk With Thee" wafted through nature's own cathedral of tall pines. With barely 6,000 people in attendance over three days it's more relaxed and less crowded than the massive festivals held in the city. There's a real charm to the artists and crafters market, unlike the slick juried shows at big city festivals. I delighted in choosing between buying corn cob jelly or banana nut bread jam. The bird feeder I purchased, made from a vintage cup and saucer, will make a unique gift. Like any good festival, there are food vendors, including the requisite junk food purveyors selling funnel cakes, and get this, fried Oreos, Twinkies and Snickers. I did my cholesterol a favor and took a pass. Activities for kids included pony rides, a petting zoo and a hay ride. And instead of sand, the kids play box was filled with corn kernels. Isn't that cute? The signature event allows you to wander through 15 acres of sunflowers and cut as many as you can stuff into a bucket for $15. That's a lot of smiles and sunshine to carry home. The thing about small town festivals is that you hear about other festivals too, like the Cotton Gin Festival and the Christmas In The Country Weekend and even the Loachapoka Syrup Sopping Festival in Loachapoka, AL. If the Sunflower Farm Festival is any indication, I see more small-town festivals in my future.

SOUTHLAND JUBILEE FESTIVAL…read more The Southland Jubilee Festival in the town of historic Greensboro is now in its nineteenth year. It features arts and craft vendors, entertainment, a classic car show and community service groups and businesses. It was a great way to spend a very comfortable Saturday morning. We arrived early and started with the classic cars. Gorgeous! Oh my gosh, those classics are incredible and it is always nice to speak with the owners and hear the story of their prized possession. Sometimes you go to a festival and you really can't see the town for the festival. However, this was not the case in Greensboro because many of their historic buildings were on full display and prominently featured. For example, the historic jail was open and available for touring while the former school auditorium is now their Festival Hall which held an art display and puppet show. That huge courthouse was at the center of it all because it was not easily missed and was prepared with tables so that we were able to sit, enjoy a cool breeze and great conversation with other attendees. When you visit the downtown shops you immediately notice the brick walls, wooden floors and other cool historic details. This festival had a cute little stage with straw bales for seating. We enjoyed sitting on the bales and watching the young dancers, Sole Momentum. They performed a Philippine folk dance using sticks and an American Folk dance featuring clogging and drumming. They created a very positive and contagious energy which totally engaged the audience. Although there were other performances, we did not see many because we were too busy exploring the town and other elements of the festival. When it came to the food, there were a variety of options from traditional fried options to barbecue options with sides. We decided to go "old school" so we targeted the non-descript tent with a simple white sign. As we looked around, we saw this huge group of people in matching tees, just chilling in chairs and listening to old school R and B while they monitored two huge smokers. This was the food I wanted to eat. I decided to go with the smoked wings because when eating out, I tend to just keep it simple and clean. These wings were delicious, perfectly smoked and seasoned. There were so good that I had to take an additional order to go. Yes! For our special treat, we decided on a large bag of kettlecorn. Although we love kettlecorn, we have not purchased it in a while because it suddenly became too salty for our taste. However, we found a vendor, Blueberry Gardens, who prepared a special bag just for us with no added salt. It was delicious and perfectly seasoned without the added salt. Winning! Thank you Greenboro for hosting such a lovely festival and making us feel so welcomed. We had a very nice time and look forward to seeing you again next year!

This is one of the best festivals around!! There's so much homemade stuff by some talented people!…read more Make plans to see this festival every time they have one! April and Oct are huge

BRASLETON ANTIQUES AND ARTISAN FESTIVAL!…read more The Antiques Festival is a semi-annual affair that is in its 13th year. It is a free festival that takes place in downtown Brasleton with approximately 150 vendors participating . Parking is free and convenient if you arrive early. The festival starts on Friday afternoon and continues through Sunday evening, (Oct 21st-23rd). You will find a variety of items here including vintage, repurposed, farmhouse, handmade, home décor, pottery, furniture, collectibles, art and so much more. If you are looking for something very specific or just wanting to browse for things you don't need, this is a great opportunity to do so. This festival is perfectly timed for those looking for holiday décor or fall accents. In addition to the vendors, there were food trucks and a play area for kids. We arrived 30 minutes before the event started and were able to purchase items during this time. I love being able to get first pick because the bracelet that I purchased was one of a kind. My husband also purchased a unique item. During this time, we were able to spend time talking with vendors, taking photos and learning more about the products. Attending these festivals is a great way to support small businesses and Yelping helps to shine the light on some businesses that would otherwise go unnoticed. I could not photograph all of the items of interest because some of the items cannot be photographed due to a fear of being "hi-jacked" which I certainly understand. One such vendor had unique sculpted items that were absolutely beautiful but since she only presents once or twice per year, her items are not often seen. She is very low-profile and her items should definitely be put on display for all to see. Although there were several food trucks, no one was serving breakfast which was a missed opportunity. Also if you wanted to get something to eat, there was no designated dining area for those who prefer to sit and dine. I also missed having a bit of music while I shopped. Never the less, I had a nice time and was just glad to get out and enjoy the weather, vendors and fellow shoppers on such a beautiful day!

THE TOCCOA HARVEST FESTIVAL!…read more The Toccoa Harvest Festival takes place in downtown Toccoa in Stephens County during the last week of October. It is now in its 40th year. We decided to visit for the first time this year. We headed out before dawn and as the sun came up, we enjoyed the beautiful scenery and change of colors. As per usual, we had planned to get there at least an hour before the start of the actual event which was scheduled to start at 10 am. We actually arrived around 8:30 am and was surprised to see several vendors already set up as well as volunteers providing directions. These small town people don't play! After eating breakfast we set out to view the vendors' wares and to see what was "poppin". My first stop was at the classic car show where I met Kent and his classic blue Chevy truck, (see the photo). `I absolutely love classic vehicles, (especially trucks), so I always have to get the "back story". This truck was purchased approximately four years ago when it was seen on someone's property. Kent had asked about the truck but the man had said that his son was planning on purchasing it. Approximately one month later, Kent saw the truck and stopped by again. At that time he was told that someone else was interested in the car and had stopped by earlier in the day. Kent offered the man cash on the spot and sealed the deal. He then spent the next four years stripping the truck and rebuilding it. All of the work was done in his garage or yard, including the paint. I was blown away to know that he had completed all of the work, (except the welding) himself. He did a phenomenal job because he showed me his book that documented the process. Collectors always have a book to document their restoration process so just ask if you are curious. I really enjoyed talking to this guy! We met another guy who had this sick 1935 International "flower wagon" that was once used to transport flowers to funerals. It too had been totally stripped and restored with a beautiful red interior and custom additions. Incredible! I could have spent hours here but I needed to explore more. There were a variety of vendors selling a variety of items such as candles, holiday décor, homemade soaps, jewelry, toys, hair accessories, art leather goods and more. I ran into my favorite jewelry vendor who I tend to purchase sets from exclusively. She didn't have anything that I don't already own so I ordered a custom piece that I will pick up at the next festival, because we just tend to run in the same circles. I must confess that I am getting a great deal because I am a repeat customer and she wants a pound cake! She is one of the few vendors who actually uses sterling silver and genuine stones while the others will just tell you that those materials are too expensive. I also like her because she does the larger adjustable statements pieces with matching earrings. Enough about my favorites! They had a Christian choir singing in the square, an activity area for children, full service restrooms that didn't include a porta-potty, great food options including Lobster, Mongolian Beef and Thai, carriage rides, baked goods, and probably some things that I just did not get to see. It was a beautiful day for the festival and it all started with a beautiful drive up from Alpharetta and ended with a visit to see the falls. When you visit the festivals, take time to see the landmarks visit the local vendors and spend time in the community. Your visit is always appreciated! By the way, if you like the frequent sound of trains running through a small town, Toccoa is your kind of town!

Because Dacula Fall Festival is one of the best festivals in Georgia. Check out the Charm Booth…read morenear the jump up kids area. September 30th

DACULA FALL FESTIVAL!…read more This festival is just a big mystery to me because I could find no information regarding its start or its age. It is as if today was the first day that they held this festival. For every single festival I have ever attended, their is some on-line documentation about the festival regarding the date and circumstances, number of attendees the previous year, vendors etc. This festival offered nothing! Let me just say this: If you aren't excited about your festival and don't "shout it out", how will people know to attend? Be proud and represent your festival to the fullest! When we arrived, we realized that this is a very small community festival. It is held in the center of town at Old Mill Park which is a really nice venue with outdoor seating and a performance stage. This seemed to be a festival designed more for the locals than visitors because of the limited vendors and lack of festival information. Although there were no food trucks, there was food offered from a local restaurant and from other vendors. Unfortunately much of what was offered was hotdogs, burgers and sandwiches. I would have appreciated more options. There was one table that interested me because it was obvious that the treats were homemade and there were samples. I sampled the apple pound cake and it was delicious! It was made from quality ingredients, the flavors were balanced, the apples were fresh and not canned and there was a beautiful baked topping that just made the cake sing. I have never purchased a cake because I prefer to bake them myself. However, I was happy to buy two servings to go but I had to get into mine right away! It never made it back to the car. Yes!! If you just want to get out of the house, chill and meet some people in a quiet setting, this is your festival.

This is a Main Street take over type festival. They have a few things for the kids sprinkled around…read moreand the focus is on food, fun, and commerce. Yes there are a number of vendors selling home made wares and even a few wholesalers of various items but nothing out of place for a small town festival. Some features for the kids: pony rides, face painting (pro), bungee jumps, and just about any kids food you can imagine. I would recommend a wagon or comfy stroller for those still adjusting to walking as the pavement is nice but still a scrape hazard with a few lumps and dips along the curbs. For adults there are a number of eating options price appropriately for a festival. This year they had not one but two Caribbean eateries attending serving Jamaican and Virgin Island dishes. You will have to eat something the smells wafting up and down the street cannot be ignored! Overall while a simple and smaller festival it is a great day out with the kids and a good way to stretch the legs while seeing local and traveling businesses of Georgia.

Deep roots festival is absolutely wonderfully. Great place for young kids and old alike. So many…read moredifferent craft booths and lots of food and music.

Oh Deep Roots (Sweetwater) Festival I love you so! The only time of the year that drinking in the…read morestreets of Milledgeville is legal. The Deep Roots Festival (formerly the Sweetwater Festival) is an annual arts/crafts/music festival held in Milledgeville. This past year was the 8th annual festival. There is plenty of cool things happening at this festival from antique car shows, arts/crafts, BBQ contests, food, wine, beer, music, kids zone, and the showcasing of Milledgeville in general. There is plenty of fun to be had for everyone no matter your age or what you are into, the Deep Roots Festival offers it all!

This festival was a blast! If you love Bluegrass you must…read moreattend this next year. The festival runs from a Friday to sunday. Friday evening you check in at the main stage tent. For 5.00 you get a bidding paddle for live and silent auction. All the food you can eat, this year provided by Bourbon Street. Shimp, cornbread, deserts. Fab! All the wine you can drink. Yes you read that correctly! Plus you can purchase your Bear on the square tshirt! Bid on wonderful items! Listen to live music. I got to meet Ugly Cousin! Definitely go to the festival on Sunday. This is when the gospel music is until around 1pm Then, this year headlining the event was Becky Buller. Amazing song writer, singer and fiddle player. I got to meet her also and she signed all my stuff! Food, food, and more food. Everything you want. I got a gyro. It was awesome. A bit pricy but it's a festival. Basically if you enjoy Bluegrass go to this festival. You will get to meet some amazing artist that are very willing to speak with you and appreciate that you are a fan. Definitely going back next year.

WHERE IS THAT BEAR?…read more This is the twentieth year for the "Bear on the Square" Festival and I thought that it would be interesting because of the emphasis on Appalachian music and culture. We love all genres of music and enjoy being able to hear something different and speak with the various artists. Storytelling, workshops and demonstrations were also featured. This festival is a huge favorite of the locals and the highlight on a Sunday morning is the gospel jam which is held in a tent overflowing with attendees. This jam should have been held in the local park because of its size and the interest that it generates. During the Gold Rush Festival, the Sunday service is held in the park and it is wonderful and accessible to all. As a rule, we always attend the festivals on opening day (Saturday), because it has a fuller and more varied schedule. On this day, many of the acts were not scheduled to perform until later in the day around 1pm but since we were there at 9 am, we would love to have seen musical acts performing at that hour. The cool aspect of this festival was being able to talk to artists such as the resident weaver who were working this very sophisticated weaving machine that was making cotton wash cloths. She had been weaving since the age of seven and had definitely discovered her passion. I also enjoyed talking to the dulcimer artist who carefully constructed custom dulcimers one or two at a time. The craftsmanship was impeccable and it usually takes a minimum of three months to create one from beginning to end. You get to totally customize your own design and whatever you want, he will make an effort to execute it. There were plenty of vendors who were showcasing personal wares such as jewelry, pottery, leather, wood products, instruments, clothing, food items and more. This was just a beautiful day to walk around, explore and mingle with vendors and visitors. It was also a great way to cap off the weekend after spending all of Saturday working in the yard. Next year we will be sure to arrive on Saturday so that we can take advantage of the full schedule.

Honestly, save your time and go apple picking at a specific farm instead. This fair was much more…read morecraft-oriented and the number of actual apple products was severely lacking. Food was fine, but was primarily just fried foods you can get at any fair (not specifically apple-y). Only a few stands were selling fresh apples, and of those, only one had apple cider! Very crowded, and admission did not feel worth what we got.

After seeing the apple festival on Instagram, I knew it would be the perfect fall activity for me…read moreand my friends. We headed up north and had a relatively easy time with parking. We parked at the school for $5 and were easily able to get in and out. The festival had over a hundred vendors available for browsing, with lots of unique handcrafted items, interactive activities, and yummy food. You can get everything from tacos to barbeque to ribbon fries. We opted for some tacos, street corn, a pretzel, and some apple dumplings and all the food was great! The apple dumpling and the pretzel were personal highlights for me. The event itself does get really crowded, so be prepared to wait in lines for a good portion of your experience. Many of the vendors are cash only, and the day we went the credit card system was offline, causing a reliance on Venmo or other online payment options. Just like every other fair, the prices will be a bit high, so bring a decent amount of cash so you can enjoy your time. One thing I would hope to see in the future is more participation from local orchards. There was a lot of variety with vendors, but I was hoping to see more of a focus on apples as the star of the show. Overall, the festival was a fun experience I could see becoming a yearly tradition for our friend group.

The Taste of Smyna is an annual food festival that takes part in downtown Smyna located in between…read morethe Smyrna Public Library/Smyrna Community Center/Smyrna City Hall. When coming here I recommend parking in front of the First Baptist Smyna church. Parking is completely free. This is our second year coming here, this year was better than last here. There was a huge turn out this year as viewers can see from the pictures, the weather turned out to be completely beautiful and there was such a great selection of food. The Taste of Smyna is a free event to visit and guests can walk along Village Green Circle and try out samples from over 30 restaurants, each sample ranges anywhere from 1 to 4 dollars. They had live music from the Scott Thompson Band this year. For kids, they have plenty of activities, the Atlanta Braves had a tent setup for young kids to practice hitting a ball (3 times) and afterwards they could get their face painted by a local airbrush artist with different brave logos. They also had a great selection of blowup houses for kids to jump around, slides, rock climbing, bungee cord lift (goes about 20 feet) and they had this really cool thing where kids are put into a huge ball, it is filled with air and then they float around inside a pool like environment. Checkout the pictures so you know get a better idea. What is also cool about this festival is that the festival sponsor gives out awards to one restaurant for four categories; this includes the best Entree, Dessert, Decorated Booth and Food Presentation. There are also gift giveaways and free balloons for kids. I am very impressed with the way Jrm Management Services puts on this event, they also run the tastes of Forsyth/Kennesaw/Acworth. Even though this year was extremely crowded, there was still plenty of room to get around. This is definitely a food festival that is worth checking out and that is coming from someone who drove 50 miles one way to come to The Taste of Smyna. I highly recommend this festival. [Review #207]

Really enjoyed myself this year I went alone and met so many People. The food options were…read morereasonable but delicious. I even took some samples to go. Parking was free and I feel the organizers did a great job with the setup of everything. I will be going back next year, because I absolutely enjoyed this event