Spring has arrived in the Western North Carolina mountains, painting the landscape with rich shades of green, vibrant blooms, and crystal cascades beneath the warm sunshine. During this time of year, a steady rotation of festivities and events throughout Jackson County inspire locals and visitors alike to gather amid the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly Easter event, an arts festival, or an adrenaline-pumping race, we’ll help you plan your ideal calendar of fun-filled activities with our guide to the best springtime celebrations in the N.C. mountains.

Catamount Climb Half Marathon & 5K – April 5, Cullowhee

On your mark… get set… go! On Saturday, April 5, Western Carolina University’s campus will host the Catamount Climb, two races guaranteed to excite and challenge runners of all levels. The 5K course navigates through the heart of campus, while the half marathon begins and ends at WCU. Proceeds from entry fees and sponsorships support student professional development and travel, as well as academic scholarships.

Easter on The Green – April 18-20, Cashiers

The Village Green is the heart of Cashiers and the gathering hub for Easter on the Green, a series of holiday events known to bring joy to people all ages. It begins with a Stations of the Cross service on Good Friday afternoon, followed by an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday morning. Sunday brings an Easter Sunrise Service at 7 a.m. on The Village Green Commons Lawn.

The Easter Hat Parade – April 19, Dillsboro

Put on your most festive hat and join the fun at Dillsboro’s Easter Hat Parade! This beloved annual tradition features antique cars, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and an exciting egg hunt. The parade winds down Front Street, with prizes awarded for the most creative, colorful, and whimsical hats. Need a hat? Stop by Dogwood Crafters on Webster Street to make your own before the parade begins!

Greening Up the Mountains – April 26, Sylva

In celebration of Earth Day, sustainability and the arrival of spring, Greening Up the Mountains is a free heritage arts festival – now in its 27th year – that takes place in historic downtown Sylva. It brings together traditional and contemporary forms of Appalachian art, music, food and drink. About 12,000 attendees peruse the creations from about 150 artisan vendors showcasing paintings, pottery, jewelry, stained glass, soaps, candles and more. The festival also features a full schedule of activities that begins with a 5K run and includes beverage arts featuring local craft breweries and live music throughout the day.

West Fork Recreational Flow Releases – April 26 & 27, Cullowhee

Witness a spectacular display of nature’s power and engineering prowess when High Falls transforms from a serene cascade to a formidable force, creating class IV rapids over a 5.5-mile stretch. A highly-anticipated site to see, water activity is recommended for experienced boaters, only, due to the challenging nature of the rapids and the high flows.

The Village Green’s Nature Series – April 29, Cashiers

Explore the wonders of nature at The Village Green’s Nature Series, a free summer lecture series hosted in partnership with the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust. These engaging talks, held on select Tuesdays and Wednesdays from April through September at 5:30 p.m., cover topics like wildlife conservation, local habitats, and Appalachian heritage.

New for 2025: The Youth Nature Series offers hands-on activities for kids on select Tuesdays in June, August, October, and December from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The Village Green. Past events have included live animal encounters, Cherokee storytelling, nature walks, and sustainable crafts. All events are free and open to all ages—no reservations needed.

WNC BirdFest – May 10, Dillsboro

Join fellow bird lovers for WNC BirdFest, a free annual event celebrating World Migratory Bird Day! Hosted by Balsam Mountain Trust, this year’s theme, “Shared Spaces – Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities,” highlights ways we can protect birds in our own backyards. Learn about varying species on guided bird walks, educational presentations, nature-inspired music, and local art. The festival also features conservation organizations, eco-friendly vendors, and exciting raffles. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, this event is a wonderful way to connect with nature and learn more about our feathered friends.

Plan Your Trip

While visiting each town for these immersive events, carve extra time to explore the captivating beauty of Jackson County. Make a pit stop to embark on a hiking, biking, fishing, or rafting adventure or unwind with a peaceful afternoon at Lake Glenville. Our charming mountain towns—including Dillsboro, Cashiers, Cherokee, and Sylva—are home to specialty boutiques, art galleries, and delightful shops to browse.

And, don’t forget to indulge in the region’s vibrant culinary scene, featuring locally-owned restaurants, cozy cafés, and renowned craft breweries. From hearty home-style breakfasts to dinners with a view, there’s something to satisfy every taste.

If rest is what you need, check-in to one of our cozy bed-and-breakfasts, charming hotels, spacious cabins, or quaint cottages—whichever suits your style.

Ready to begin planning your spring getaway to Jackson County, North Carolina? Allow us to help you begin planning your visit by requesting your free 2025 Visitor Guide.