Escaping to the Mountains: Top Things to Do in North GA This Weekend

With the beautiful mountain breeze and the arrival of Memorial Day weekend, North Georgia is bursting with activity this Saturday, May 23, 2026. Whether you are an art lover, a rodeo enthusiast, or looking to unwind with live music at local vineyards, something is happening in every mountain town.

Here is your ultimate guide to the best events, programs, and festivals happening across North Georgia this weekend.

50th Annual Spring Arts in the Park (Blue Ridge, GA)

• Website: Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
• Admission: Ticketed/Paid entry. Proceeds support the local non-profit arts council. Paid parking is available at the Trackside Station parking garage.
• The Program: This premier juried fine arts and crafts festival features over 170 artists, exhibitors, and food vendors. Nestled in downtown Blue Ridge, the event features beautiful live demonstrations, unique crafts, and delicious food for the whole family to enjoy.

Live Music & Food Trucks at the Vineyards (Blue Ridge, GA)

If you want to sip local wine and enjoy live melodies, Blue Ridge’s winery scene has a stacked lineup for Saturday:

• Website: Check local updates via Escape to Blue Ridge Events
• Admission: Generally free entry; wine, tastings, and food truck items are available for purchase.
• Savannah and Sam Live at Blue Ridge's local mountain stops.
• Holden Le Dinh & Wyatt Espalin at local winery tours.
• Tawnya Reynolds & Smoked & Loaded Food Truck plus Music Bingo at the vineyards.
• Scott Stambaugh Live at The Mill (Noontootla Creek Farms).

Hiawassee Pro Rodeo (Hiawassee, GA)

• Website: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Tickets
• Admission: Ticketed. Registration/ticket purchase is required in advance or at the gate.
• Time: Gates open at 6:00 PM; the Rodeo action begins at 8:00 PM. Note: Clear bag policy is strictly enforced.
• The Program: Grab your cowboy boots! The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds is hosting a thrilling, family-friendly pro rodeo featuring world-class contestants, bucking horses, and bull riding.

1890 Days Jamboree (Ringgold, GA)

• Website: Find more details at Explore Georgia Fairs & Festivals
• Admission: Free admission to the festival grounds.
• The Program: A massive annual community tradition in downtown Ringgold. This historical family festival features incredible arts and crafts booths, delicious classic festival food, a street parade, a classic car show, live musical performances, and a brilliant fireworks display to close out the evening.

Luke Morgan: "Whiskey Jam" Country Live (Dahlonega, GA)

• Website: Secure your spot on Eventbrite Dahlonega Events
• Admission: Ticketed event, check Eventbrite for seat registration.
• The Program: Spend your Saturday evening listening to incredible live acoustic country music inside an intimate venue space at one of Dahlonega's premier local spots.

North GA Shootout Basketball Tournament (Cumming, GA)

• Website: Exposure Basketball Events
• Location: North Forsyth High School
• Admission: Entry/Registration fee required for teams ($175–$275); spectator fees apply at the door.
• The Program: For the sports fans and families supporting youth athletes, the North GA Shootout features highly competitive youth basketball games (Boys & Girls 17U-8U divisions).

Tip For Your Weekend Trip:

Because it's Memorial Day weekend, mountain traffic will be heavier than usual. Plan to arrive early for parking—especially for Blue Ridge's Arts in the Park and Hiawassee's Pro Rodeo!