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| Banner Elk |
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t’s known as the Christmas Tree Capital of the World, but that’s not Banner Elk’s only claim to fame.
Perhaps just as endearing as being a major supplier of smiles at Christmas is the internationally known
Woolly Worm Festival,
held every third weekend in October.
Experiencing this little fuzzy striped caterpillar race up a string encourages even the most normal competitor to act a little foolish.
This annual festival, now in its 30th year, is enjoyed by approximately 20,000 visitors who relish the food, crafts, games and brilliance of the October autumn setting. Proceeds from the festival support youth programs in the area and the activities of the Avery-Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce.
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ctually, Banner Elk is far from being a sleepy mountain town, because it is transformed into a major ski resort every winter. Three of the best ski areas in North Carolina are nearby, including Beech Mountain, the highest town east of the Mississippi; Sugar Mountain, with its adventurous slopes, trails and snowboard park; and Hawksnest, the local college favorite. Average snowfall is close to 100 inches, spread out over a five-month season, producing great skiing conditions.
Hiking and cycling are popular in the area. Several hiking and cycling clubs welcome others interested in these sports to join them in their excursions. Maps are available from the chambers of commerce.
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Many folks come here on vacation and
love the area and the people.
Then when
they see an ad for a summer home,
they buy it.
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Each July, a wee bit of the Scottish Highlands comes to the Banner Elk area with the traditional
Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.
The largest gathering of Scottish Clans in the United States happens here, sponsored by more than 160 Scottish clans and societies. The deep blue peaks of Grandfather Mountain tower above a grassy green meadow that amplifies the sounds of bagpipes and kettle drums.
Lees-McRae College is a four-year institution that also offers an evening program in business administration, as well as summer theatre and a strong arts program. Outstanding nature trails, rivers and an active recreation department offer year-round outdoor opportunities, and luxury communities are tucked away up mountain roads and in the green valleys.
Have some fun. Get some expert feedback. Post your Banner Elk questions,
comments and experiences on the "Carolinas
Message Board."
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Katherine O. Pettit has worked as a writer, magazine editor, printer and
public relations consultant. The Columbia resident has published
more than 250 articles in magazines and newspapers. Her writing
explores a variety of subjects including travel, lifestyles, business
and management.
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