About the Unicoi County Apple Festival
The Unicoi County Apple Festival is one of the largest and most celebrated festivals in the Southeast, welcoming more than 150,000 visitors each year to the scenic mountain town of Erwin, Tennessee. Held annually on the first full weekend in October, the festival has become a nationally recognized celebration of Appalachian culture, craftsmanship, music, and community. What began in 1978 as a small hometown gathering has grown into a premier fall event that draws visitors from across the United States, all eager to experience the charm, hospitality, and energy that make this festival truly unforgettable.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, the festival transforms downtown Erwin into an extraordinary open-air celebration. The event spans six blocks along Main Avenue and the adjoining downtown side streets, creating a lively festival atmosphere filled with music, color, and excitement. Throughout the weekend, visitors can explore more than 420 arts, crafts, and food vendors representing talented artisans, makers, and culinary vendors from across the country. From handcrafted goods and fine art to regional specialties and classic festival favorites, the Apple Festival offers an incredible variety of experiences for every visitor.
One of the festival’s most unique attractions is the renowned Blue Ridge Pottery Show, one of the largest gatherings of Blue Ridge pottery collectors and dealers in the nation. This highly anticipated event draws collectors and enthusiasts from across the country who come to celebrate and preserve the legacy of this iconic Appalachian pottery.
Festival weekend also features continuous live music and entertainment, family-friendly activities, and the annual Unicoi County Apple Festival 5K Race, which has become a popular tradition for runners and spectators alike. Together, these events create a dynamic celebration that blends the region’s rich heritage with the excitement of a world-class festival.
For nearly five decades, the Apple Festival has been more than an event—it has become a beloved tradition and a signature celebration of Unicoi County. Visitors come for the crafts, the food, the music, and the mountain scenery, but they return year after year for the welcoming spirit of a community that knows how to celebrate.
Each October, the Unicoi County Apple Festival invites you to experience one of America’s great small-town festivals—where Appalachian tradition, creativity, and community pride come together for an unforgettable autumn celebration.