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
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. Note: Mt. Mitchell State Park and the Blueridge Parkway between 80S and the park entrance are currently closed due to Hurrican Helene Damage. Please check their website for updates.
“North Carolina High Peaks” has regular guided hikes on the weekend. Check their website for upcoming schedule.
Burnsville’s Perennial Schedule
February
• Parkway Playhouse Fundraiser
April
• Farmers’ Market – April – October
•April 20th Burnsville Fit Family 5K
May
• “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 at the Farmers Market Pavillion 5:00 – 8:00 pm. Local artists and crafters.
June
• Rhododendron Festival at nearby Bakersville June
• Toe River Arts Council Studio Tour – June 6-8
• Parkway Playhouse season May – September
•First Friday Market at the Farmers Market Pavillion 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 at the Farmers Market Pavillion July
5:00 – 8:00 pm. Local artists and crafters.
August
• Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair – 1st weekend in August Friday and Saturday. August 1-2. 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
• Penland School of Crafts Annual Benefit Auction –August
September
• Carolina Mountains Literary Festival Sept. The 2025 event will be a one evening event.
•First Friday Market at the Farmers Market Pavillion September – 5:00 – 8:00 pm. Local artists and crafters.
• Parkway Playhouse Appalachian Playwriting Festival Sept,
• Bakersville Crafters Fair
October – Leaf Season
•First Friday Market at the Farmers Market Pavillion – 5:00 – 8:00 pm Local artists and crafters.
• Toe River Arts Council Studio Tour TBA
•First Friday Market at the Farmers Market Pavillion 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 Reems Creek Golf Club in Weaverville and Grassy Creek Golf Club in Spruce Pine, and others. Note the Mt. Mitchell Golf Course is currently closed.