No matter what time of year it is, there is always something to celebrate in Helen! From mouthwatering food festivals to gatherings centered around the culture of the North Georgia Mountains, our calendar is filled with a wide variety of exciting Helen, GA events. If you’re looking for something fun to add to your itinerary or a reason to get away to our Bavarian-inspired village, here is a quick look at some of our favorite local events that we’re sure you’ll love just as much as we do.
Interested in even more Helen, GA events? Then you won’t want to be without our free Vacation Guide! This handy vacation planning tool is filled with all best recommendations for things to see and do in our area including nearby hiking trails, outdoor activities, dining, Helen, GA attractions, and more. Request your free copy today and let’s get started on planning your dream mountain getaway.
The Most Fun Helen, GA Events
1. Helen Trout Tournament (March)
Take advantage of Helen’s incredible trout fishing during the Helen Trout Tournament. Held in early spring, fishermen from all over the region flock to North Georgia to test their skills and cast their lines for the Tagged Trout. Fishermen of all ages are welcome to attend and try to win $4,000 in prizes. Before you attend, ensure you have a Georgia fishing license!
2. Spring Bierfest (April)
Celebrate the spring season and the Bavarian culture with this Oktoberfest-esque event! The Spring Bierfest welcomes visitors to a fun beer tasting in the village before an evening party in the Festhalle with a live German band, traditional German dancing, food, and more.
3. WineFest
Wine lovers, this is for you! WineFest brings together some of Helen’s top wineries for a whole event dedicated to our thriving wine region. During this festival, you can expect live music, food to nibble on, and of course, plenty of locally crafted wines to go around!
4. Bavarianfest (May)
This Memorial Day weekend celebration is intended to honor the service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice protecting our country. Bavarianfest is open to any and all visitors and free for all active duty and retired service members. You’ll experience a live Oomph band, imported and domestic beers, authentic German food, and more.
5. Taste of Helen (August)
We hope you’re hungry because the Taste of Helen event is just what you need to satisfy your appetite! Local eateries will be offering some of their best menu items directly to you. That way, you’ll be able to indulge in the best foods that our village has to offer all in one place. A cash bar and live music will also be present at the event.
6. Georgia’s Spirit of Appalachia Food, Wine, and Art Festival (September)
Held at Hardman Farm in Sautee Nacoochee, the Spirit of Appalachia Festival is a great way to immerse in the culture of North Georgia. Attendees will experience traditional music from local bands, delectable dishes, samples of Georgia’s finest wine, and the work of regional artists. This is also one of our favorite opportunities to find unique gifts and souvenirs that you won’t find anywhere else.
7. Helen Oktoberfest (September-October)
Oktoberfest is without a doubt the most popular of all Helen, GA events. It’s also the nation’s longest-running Oktoberfest celebration! On select dates in September and October, come to Downtown Helen, GA for traditional German food and music, dancing, and plenty of beer for everyone. Cheers to that!
8. Georgia Mountain Fall Festival (October)
There is no better place to be than North Georgia during the fall season, and the annual Georgia Mountain Fall Festival is proof of that! This October, you won’t want to miss the exciting musical performances, craft vendors, educational demonstrations, and popular events that exalt the mountain heritage. The wide variety of children’s activities also make it a great options for families, so bring the kids along for the fun!
9. Annual Lighting of the Village (November)
Spend an evening downtown as Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive for the popular Lighting of the Village! The twinkling Helen, GA Christmas lights and the multitude of colors are truly enchanting. Plus, you will have the chance to enjoy live musical performances afterward. If you bring the kids along, they can sit on Santa’s lap and reveal what they want the most for Christmas!
10. Christkindlmarkt (December)
Helen honors its Bavarian roots with the Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German Christmas market. This is the perfect opportunity to get some holiday shopping done or find unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else. This market features nearly every gift idea you can imagine from decorations, savory treats, arts and crafts, and much more.
11. Dropping of the Edelweiss (December)
This family-friendly event is the most popular Helen, GA New Year’s Eve celebration, and for good reason! Visitors and locals alike gather in the Helen Festhalle to welcome the new year with live music performances, plenty of food, and a champagne toast at midnight. The main event of the celebration, however, is the dropping of the Edelweiss, which is Helen’s own version of New York’s dropping of the ball.
Celebrate With Us at Pinnacle Cabin Rentals
Make your next Helen, GA getaway one to always remember by staying with us in one of our beautiful mountain cabins! Unlike typical Helen hotels, guests in our cabins will enjoy ample space, incredible mountain views, and a family vacation unlike any other. You will also be spoiled with unparalleled guest service and convenience to all there is to see and do in Helen.
Book your favorite cabin with us today and we hope to see you soon!