Last Updated on August 10, 2026 1:15 pm
VALLE CRUCIS, N.C. — The colors, flavors, sights, and sounds of harvest season in the Blue Ridge Mountains come together on October 17 when the Valle Country Fair (VCF) returns to scenic Valle Crucis for its 48th annual celebration.
Craftspeople from across the region, High Country musicians, and the Valle Crucis community are preparing for another memorable event following the record-breaking success of last year's fair. The 2025 Fair drew 12,261 fairgoers, the largest crowd in the event's history, with visitors from at least 23 different states.
The co-chairs for this year's fair are Julie Gates and Tracey Heiss. “For 47 years,” Heiss said, “the VCF has lived its mission of ‘neighbors helping neighbors,' not only supporting local nonprofits, but by pitching in to help those in need with things like fuel oil, medical bills, and assistance with their rent.”
What began in 1979 as a small church bazaar has grown into one of the High Country's most beloved traditions. To date, the VCF has raised over $1.4 million and distributed 100% of proceeds in grants to 127 different charitable organizations, along with financial assistance to thousands of individuals and families throughout the High Country. Following the most successful fair in its history last year, organizers are looking forward to welcoming multitudes of visitors once again.
Fairgoers can enjoy barbecue, Brunswick stew, and other favorite foods while browsing more than 120 booths featuring handcrafted works by regional artisans. Throughout the day, Appalachian musicians will provide a soundtrack to the festivities, set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains in peak autumn color. “Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of the High Country. Bring family and friends and feel good that your dollars will stay in the community helping others,” added VCF Co-Chair Gates.
The Valle Country Fair is held annually on the third Saturday in October. This year's event will take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in the fields in front of the Valle Crucis Conference Center on N.C. Highway 194 between Valle Crucis and Banner Elk.
Admission to the one-day celebration of mountain traditions is free. Parking is available in the adjoining field for $10 per vehicle.
Media sponsors for the 2026 Valle Country Fair are Curtis Media Group and Mountain Times Publications. VCF is supported by the Watauga Arts Council and the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
The event is hosted by Holy Cross Episcopal Church in cooperation with the Valle Crucis Conference Center. Proceeds provide emergency assistance to local families in need. For more information, contact Holy Cross Episcopal Church at 828-963-4609 or visit the official website at www.vallecountryfair.org.
