It’s time to celebrate honey in all its sweet, sticky, golden glory at the Sourwood Festival in Black Mountain, North Carolina! Every year, honey lovers gather to celebrate with music, dancing, vendors, and of course, fantastic food. Read on to discover everything you need to know about the 2019 festival. And, if you are searching for more fun things to do in the area, download our free Chimney Rock/Lake Lure Vacation Guide! It is full of recommendations for restaurants, hiking trails, shopping, and more.
5 Sweet Reasons to Visit the Sourwood Festival
1. Honey, Honey, Honey!
Since 1977, thousands of people have visited downtown Black Mountain to attend the Sourwood Festival, and with good reason! This annual summer event marks the start of sourwood honey selling season. This special honey is culled from the sourwood tree, a tree that is indigenous to the Southern Appalachian area. Join in on the fun, get the buzz on the honey making process, and learn more about North Carolina’s honeybees. You can even chat with the beekeepers and bring home a jar of gourmet honey.
2. Shop ‘Til You Drop
Are you looking for the perfect souvenir to remember your vacation or a new and unique addition to your wardrobe? Then, make your way to the Sourwood Festival! Here, there are over 200 vendors selling a wide range of goods and products. You can look forward to shopping handmade jewelry, local artwork, homemade jams and jellies, honeybee products, and more.
3. Sweet Eats & Fantastic Food
Honey, we hope you’re hungry! Because, whatever it is that you are craving, you’ll likely find it at this festival. Past celebrations included BBQ plates, vegetarian fare, funnel cakes, homemade ice cream, fried apple pies, and more. Yum!
4. Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with the kids, you’re in luck. There are enough rides and games at this festival to keep the little ones busy all day! Children can enjoy face painting booths, carnival rides, arts and crafts stations, and plenty of fun games. Plus, the festival grounds provide a safe, alcohol-free environment. Who knows? You may have an aspiring beekeeper on your hands!
5. Music & Dancing
Do you have a passion for singing? If so, it’s time to test your pipes for a chance to become the next Sourwood Festival Idol! This amateur singing contest is always a crowd favorite. Sing your way to the top for a chance to win the grand cash prize. The contest is free to enter. Afterward, you can enjoy live music, entertainment, and dancing under the big tent!
Tips for Your Trip
- The 2019 Sourwood Festival kicks off on Friday, August 9, with the Sourwood Idol competition. Afterward, celebrate all weekend long from Saturday, August 10 to Sunday, August 11.
- Admission is always free! However, we recommend bringing along some cash for shopping and eating.
The Best Place to Stay
After a wonderful day at the Sourwood Festival, head home to The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant for a night of relaxation. 
Our game room is the perfect place to unwind with the family. Here, parents and kids can have fun with a billiard table, foosball, chess, and air hockey. Parents, feel free to sit back and relax in our quiet reading space.
When you stay in any of our spacious cabins, like the Chimney Rock River Cabin, you can always look forward to the best amenities, vacation packages, and top-notch service! Complimentary breakfast is always included with your stay. If you are ready to plan your vacation, check our availability and book your stay today. We can’t wait to host you at The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant!