Things to Do

In and Around Burnsville, NC

Burnsville is the one of the best small towns in Western North Carolina, with the most attractive town square, some say “Burnsville is America, like it used to be”. Come and have a look for yourself.

The Bare Dark Sky Observatory and Arthur Planetarium.
Open year round. Run by the Mayland Community College.
Earth to Sky Park -ingles on the Road Episode 96 (Youtube) gives a great overview of the facility. Tickets can be purchased online through the Mayland link above.

The Town Center has regular events all year round. 

The Burnsville Quilt Block Trail

The Terrell House has a quilt block the School Girls Puzzle with pigtails above the front entrance.

For History of Burnsville visit the McElroy House in the center of Burnsville.

Highway 80 S just outside Burnsville starting in Micaville and heading toward The Blue Ridge Parkway has been designated a North Carolina Scenic Highway.

Yancey County is also the home of Mount Mitchell the highest mountain (6,684′) east of the Mississippi River, is worth a visit. On a clear day you can see for miles and miles.

“North Carolina High Peaks” has regular guided hikes on the weekend.  Check their website for upcoming schedule.

Burnsville’s Perennial Schedule

Due to Hurricane Helene dates of events have not been posted at this time. Dates for 2025 will be posted as they become available.


February
•  Parkway Playhouse Fundraiser

April
Farmers’ Market – April – October

•April 20th Burnsville Fit Family 5K

May
Mt. Mitchell State Park opens on May 1st
• “Ride for a Vet” motorcycle ride sponsored by the Mt. Mitchell Marine Corps League

The Burnsville Metric. May each year. Start line Burnsville Town Square. Rain or Shine. 62 mile bike race with 3400 ft of ascent. Family bike ride, entertainment and vendors fair.

•First Friday Market on the Square May 3, 2024 – 5:00 – 8:00 pm. Local artists and crafters.

Quest for the Crest. May each year.

June

Rhododendron Festival at nearby Bakersville June
Toe River Arts Council Studio TourJune

Parkway Playhouse season May – September

•First Friday Market on the Square June – December

5:00 – 8:00 pm. Local artists and crafters.

July
• 4th of July Celebration on the Town Square. entertainment 6:00 pm

•First Friday Market on the Square July

5:00 – 8:00 pm. Local artists and crafters.

August
•  Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair – 1st weekend in August Friday and Saturday. 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Penland School of Crafts Annual Benefit Auction –August

September

Carolina Mountains Literary Festival Sept.

•First Friday Market on the Square September – 5:00 – 8:00 pm. Local artists and crafters.

Parkway Playhouse Appalachian Playwriting Festival Sept,
• Olde Timey Days
• Bakersville Crafters Fair

October Leaf Season

Mt. Mitchell closes on the 31st.

•First Friday Market on the Square – 5:00 – 8:00 pm Local artists and crafters.

November 

•  Toe River Arts Council Studio Tour TBA

•First Friday Market on the Square November – 5:00 – 8:00 pm Local artists and crafters.


Area tree farms sell Christmas trees, garlands and wreaths
(see Quality-Firs.com)

December

 Burnsville Christmas Parade

Come stay with us and go golfing at a number of locations including the Mt. Mitchell Golf Club, Reems Creek Golf Club in Weaverville, Grassy Creek Golf Club in Spruce Pine,  and others.