When summer heats up, Blairsville offers the perfect mountain escape. In the heart of the North Georgia Mountains, this charming town invites visitors to slow down and soak in cooler temperatures, fresh mountain air and endless outdoor adventure. Spend your days hiking scenic trails, chasing waterfalls and taking in breathtaking views from some of North Georgia’s most iconic overlooks.

After a day outdoors, refuel at one of Blairsville’s local favorites – grab a sandwich at Sammie’s, delicious taco’s at Lucky’s or award-winning BBQ at Jim’s Smokin’ Que. Sip and savor the flavors of the mountains at Blairsville Brewing Company, Grandaddy Mimm's Distilling Co. and Living Water Winery & Vineyard, where tastings, live music and laid-back vibes create the perfect summer evening.

For water lovers, Lake Nottely offers more than 106 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, swimming and kayaking, while Vogel State Park — one of Georgia’s oldest and most beloved state parks — provides another unforgettable outdoor experience at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest.

Add a full calendar of summer festivals and events, and Blairsville makes for an easy, adventure-filled North Georgia Mountain getaway all season long.

Plan your visit around these can’t-miss summer events: 

A favorite among locals and a must-visit for travelers, the Union County Farmers Market is a celebration of the community’s rich agricultural heritage and creative spirit. Open Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., May through October, the market features everything from farm-fresh produce and local honey to handmade pottery, baked goods, artwork and more — all proudly homegrown and handmade right here in Union County. Strolling the market is a great way to meet local growers and artisans, discover authentic mountain flavors and support the small farms and makers that help make Blairsville-Union County so special.

- Freedom & Fireworks: The 250 in Blairsville – July 4

Celebrate Independence Day in the North Georgia Mountains at Blairsville’s annual Red, White and Blairsville 4th of July Celebration, made even more special in 2026 as the nation marks its 250th anniversary. Set against a stunning mountain backdrop, the evening features a spectacular fireworks show, family-friendly

activities like bounce houses, cornhole and kickball, plus plenty of classic festival treats and food trucks on-site at the nearby North Georgia Technical College campus. With free admission, free parking and fun for all ages, it’s one of summer’s can’t-miss celebrations in Blairsville.

- Butternut Creek Festival - July 18 & 19

Set against the scenic backdrop of Meeks Park, the Butternut Creek Festival celebrates the rich artistic traditions of the North Georgia mountains. Visitors can browse fine arts and handmade crafts, watch live demonstrations, enjoy regional music and discover everything from woodworking and stained glass to paintings, pottery and jewelry

- Green Bean Festival – July 25 & 26

Summer in the north Georgia mountains means one thing—the return of Blairsville's favorite hometown traditions, the Green Bean Festival. Taking place in Downtown Blairsville, the festival will feature local arts and crafts vendors, fresh produce, delicious food, live music, family-friendly activities and, of course, plenty of green beans. Visitors can spend the weekend soaking up small-town charm, mountain views and a lively community celebration that captures the spirit of summer in Blairsville.