How to Have an Exciting Day at the Lake Lure Arts and Crafts Festival

Under the Blue Ridge Mountains and spread out along the splendor of Lake Lure, countless artists from Appalachia gather at the Lake Lure Arts & Crafts Festival to showcase their unique talents. This extraordinary event in Chimney Rock, NC takes place twice a year, every year: once in spring, and one more time in autumn. The festival benefits the Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach, a local non-profit organization that provides support for families in need. Since it’s inception in the 1980s, the Lake Lure Arts and Crafts Festival has become an unparalleled local tradition that encourages creativity and supports the community. Oh, and did we mention it’s free to attend? 

For more reasons to celebrate art in the area, access our insightful Vacation Guide. It’s full of information on what to do while you are here! 

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Stop by All the Artisan Booths at the Lake Lure Arts and Crafts Festival

Each year, the crafts festival features nearly 100 artists, each of whom only sells items that they have handmade. As attendees browse through the booths, many artists choose to exhibit their creative processes and make beautiful works of art throughout the day. So, don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to get something from every booth! 

Local tip: Once you’ve visited the booths, head over to the entertainment corner for live music and dance performances from various local groups! 

Explore Downtown Lake Lure

While you’re enjoying this North Carolina arts and crafts festival, you’ll find yourself in the heart of downtown Lake Lure. You can take some time to visit boutique shops on Main Street, mingle with the locals, and even stroll along Lake Lure’s gorgeous beach. Although this is not technically part of the festival, it’s the perfect way to get to know what Lake Lure is all about!

Have a Tasty Meal

As you walk through the rows of booths, you’ll work up quite the appetite! When you’re ready for lunch or a quick snack, check out the food court area. Here, you’ll find a variety of festival-favorites including turkey legs, Polish-Italian sausages, funnel cakes, and other homemade pastries. Once you have your food, pick a comfortable spot in the creek-side picnic area and enjoy your lunch while admiring the grandiose mountain.

If you’d prefer to dine indoors, but don’t want to lose the splendid mountain view, we recommend getting dinner at The Esmeralda’s restaurant. We offer an extraordinary selection of meticulously crafted dishes made with the best locally sourced ingredients. Our North Carolina mountain trout is a crowd favorite! 

Stay at The Esmeralda Inn, Restaurant & Spa

After a fun day of walking through the festival grounds and mingling with the locals, kick your shoes off and unwind in one of our luxurious guest rooms, or find a peaceful oasis in a private cabin. For the ultimate relaxation session, book a hot stone massage at our onsite spa.

Book your stay at The Esmeralda and treat yourself to a relaxing mountain getaway!