Mile High Kite Festival On Beech Mountain NC - Sept 5 - 6, 2009

BEECH MOUNTAIN, N.C. Why not go fly a kite on Labor Day weekend?

The seventh annual Mile High Kite Festival will be held in the meadows at the top of Beech Mountain, the highest destination in the North Carolina mountains. The free event gives children of all ages an opportunity to fly a kite at an altitude of 1 mile above sea level.

Festivities get under way Saturday 9/5/09 with a clinic for kite makers from 2 to 4 p.m. Folks are encouraged to bring their homemade kites, and members of the kite clubs will be on hand to discuss the intricacies of kite building.

Two members of the Richmond Air Force kite club--Terry Murray and Will Smoot -- will serve as announcers for the Kite Festival on Sunday 9/6/09. The hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Free kites will be given to the first 200 children younger than 12. There also will be kites for sale, and folks are welcome to bring their own. Other activities will include children's races and face painting, and there will be craft vendors.

Contests will be held for biggest, smallest and best-decorated kites. For more information, call (800) 468-5506 or visit http://www.beechmtn.com/.

Kite photo by wolfpix on flickr

Get Discounts On NC High Country Attractions, Restaurants & More

Get Discounts On NC High Country Attractions, Restaurants & More !

Real Deals Now has a new way of advertising many of the businesses around Blowing Rock, Boone, Grandfather Mountain, Tweetsie and Banner Elk. Go to the Real Deals Now website and register by email for a chance to win discounts to Tweetsie, The Blowing Rock, Mystery Hill and Grandfather Mountain and lots more..

Real Deals Now also has a variety of restaurant coupons - including Woodlands BBQ, The Best Cellar and the Blowing Rock Grille in Blowing Rock.. Some of the choices in Boone are The Daniel Boone Inn, Makoto's Japanese Steak House, The Peddler Steak House, Boone Drugs and even - Cheap Joe's Art Stuff... Check out the Real Deals Now Business Page for the full list . The "How To Use This Site" page will get you up to speed on just how you can take advantage of some great deals in the NC High Country !

We had the privilege of using this site last week to win discount tickets to Tweetsie. Not only did we get a fantastic deal, owners - Tim and Janice Baxter went out of their way to help us secure our tickets at the very last minute !!! These folks are not only nice and helpful, they really want you to have a great time in the NC mountains..

If you are planning a trip to Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, or Grandfather Mountain - you must check out Real Deals Now

Autumn At Oz - Beech Mountain NC - October 3 & 4, 2009

Autum at Oz - Beech Mountain NC To be held Saturday, October 3rd and Sunday, October 4th, 2009 from 10:00 to 5:00 p.m.

When you arrive on Beech Mountain, you can park in the meadows across from the Beech Mountain Town Hall then walk, or catch the bus, up to the private garden of OZ. The walk is approximately 1 gentle, uphill mile.

Guests will take a tour of Aunt Em's and Uncle Henry's farm and meet Dorothy, Toto and friends along the Yellow Brick Road. While you wait for your bus, you will enjoy all the visitors decked out as Dorothy, TinMan, Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, Glinda-The Good Witch or the Wicked Witch.. it is a blast!

The tour takes from 1 1/2 to 2 hours - or a little longer, depends on how long you linger in Emerald City. You can go anytime between 10 am and 5 pm but the buses generally run at 10am, 12noon and 2pm. * Strollers and wheelchairs will need to be parked.

There will be a mini-museum to visit and artifacts to share all about Oz. The bands are not yet determind but some will provide music, Peter McTavish will provide Magic Shows in between, and Genesis Wildlife Sanctuary will exhibit a small petting zoo, adding more fun at the Farm. There will be face painting, food treats, and special Oz concessions in "Kansas".

New and old trivia will be available for purchase, with part of the money going back into upkeep and restorations.Our very special guests of honor will be ??? from the 1939 movie. Everyone is encouraged to wear something "Ozzie" and bring their photos and treasures to add to the event.

A special invite is extended again to past employees of Carolina Caribbean and the Land of OZ. The price is $15.00, children under 3 free. We'll gladly take original yellow bricks or other park remains for trade.

Unfortunately, I never visited the Land of Oz as a child.....but last year I came to Autumn at Oz for the first time.. I was very impressed with the organization of the event, the costumes, the Ozzie characters and thoroughly enjoyed the entire day there.. The folks of Beech Mountain and everyone that participates in this event should be commended. Well Done ! Lord willing, I will be back this year..

A limited number of advance tickets are available at the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce, http://www.beechmtn.com/ . 800-468-5506.

Photos by C. Gilliam

Mountain Bike Racing - Triple Crown on Beech Mountain NC

Downhill Mountain Bike Racing Returns to Beech Mountain Resort with reintroduction of Triple Crown Series!

Beech Mountain Resort has teamed up with local mountain bike aficionado and professional downhill racer Ryan Taylor to offer three gravity-fed mountain bike racing events in 2009. Together, the team will reintroduce the Beech Mountain Triple Crown Series to attract professional and amateur riders across the Southeast.

Three race dates are set for the 2009 Triple Crown: June 27-28; August 8-9; September 5-6, so mark your calendar now! Competitors will earn points at each event, culminating in series champions in September. Amateur and professional categories will be offered. All racers will compete on a single course descending the full elevation of Beech Mountain. Race entry fees will be $55 for all classes.

According to Taylor , during the 1990’s Beech Mountain was the premier downhill mountain bike racing venue in the Southeast. “Beech was always a classic downhill race venue because of its elevation, turbulent weather and rough terrain. I do not think I can remember a race where weather was not a factor, or where my palms were not sweating at registration.” Now, nearly a decade later, downhill racing returns!

Helmets are mandatory for all competitors. Recommended safety equipment for competitors includes, gloves, long pants, long sleeve shirt, leg armour, arm armour and solid running or bike specific shoes.

To find out more information about the 2009 Triple Crown Series contact Ryan Taylor via email at mbrp07@yahoo.com.

2 Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, NC High Country August 2009 Events

Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, NC High Country August 2009 Events


Beech Mountain - August 1, 2009

The Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce is preparing for their 28th Annual Crafts on the Green festival. The festival will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2009 on the top of Beech Mountain. Approximately 70 craftspeople are expected to be there with a variety of items ranging from fine jewelry, woodturnings, photography, and other craft items. Live music, a magic show, and food will all be on hand at Beech Mountain’s 28th Annual Crafts on the Green. The festival will run from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Sunday Concerts at Fred’s Gazebo - Beech Mountain August 2 & 9, 2009Summer Sunday concerts are featured at Fred’s Gazebo with lots of fun for the whole family. Each Sunday starting at 6:30pm. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506.

Summer Guided Hikes Beech Moutain - August 4, 2009Take the Beech Creek Bog Trail - 1.8 miles. Check in at the Beech Mountain Chamber and enjoy nature at it's best. For more information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506. http://www.hikebeechmountain.com/Ski Beech - Beech Mountain - August 8-9. 2009Downhill Mountain Bike Racing Returns to Beech Mountain Resort with reintroduction of Triple Crown Series! Bike race dates are set for the 2009 Triple Crown Bike Race: August 8-9; September 5-6. For more info - see the websitehttp://www.skibeech.com/news/26.html

Banner Elk - Lees McRae - August 11, 2009Lees McRae presents "Everything is Rosie" starring Wendy Hayes, is a one woman show that pays tribute to the life and musical contributions of one of America's favorite girl singers . . . Rosemary Clooney! Tuesday, Aug 11 at 7:30 pm Hayes Auditorium - Lees McRae Tickets: $ 20.00 - General Admission Buy tickets at the box office or at the dooror check online http://www.lmc.edu/web/SummerTheatre/ All shows will be held in Hayes Auditorium. Box office hours: Noon - 5 pm, Monday - FridayBox office phone: 828-898-8709
Beech Mountain Club - August 14, 2009Frogmore Stew - Good lo country shrimp boil at the Beech Mountain Club Pavilion. Everyone welcome. Reservation recommended. Price TBD 6pm-9pm Music by Jesse Smith (singing Jimmy Buffet tunes)
Street Dance at Town Hall - Beech Mountain - August 15, 2009August 15, 2009 Our D.J., Mac Mast, is a master at reading the crowd and playing music that will get your heart pumping and your feet moving. Music starts at 7 pm, weather permitting. This is a free event, brought to you by the members of the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. For additional information, call the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or
(800) 468-5506.
Blowing Rock NC - 47th Annual Art in the Park August 15, 2009Art in the Park 10 am - 5 pmDowntown Blowing Rock, American Legion GroundsThis series of juried art and fine handcraft shows has garnered numerous awards through the years and showcases 100 exhibitors at each show. Call 800-295-7851
Grandfather Mountain - August 15-16,2009Daily Naturalist ProgramsGrandfather Mountain naturalists present a special nature program each day during the summer(August). The one-hour programs are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and are included in the price of admission. 800-468-7325Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera ClinicAug. 15-16Top photographers gather to share on the nuts & bolts of making good photographs. 2009 speakers include Bill Fortney, John Chastain, Duane Hall and Melissa Southern. Free to working press, additional cost for non-professionals. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is required. Online registration begins July 15. 800-468-7325

Summer Guided Hikes - Beech Mountain August 18 , 2009August 18, 2009 Take the Westerly HillsTrail - 4.5 miles. Check in at the Beech Mountain Chamber and enjoy nature at it's best. For more information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506. http://hikebeechmountain.com/Banner Elk - Lees McRae August 22, 2009Marvin Hamlisch in Concert at the Hayes Auditorium - Lees McRae College Banner Elk NC - Saturday August 22, 2009 7:30pmCall 828-898-8719 or click the link to buy tickets online..http://www.lmc.edu/web/specialevents/marvin_hamlisch.htmValle Crucis Park - Valle Crucis NC August Dates See website at ValleCrucisPark.org or call the Park Office at 828-963-9239.Music in the Park 2009 ScheduleAll performances begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted.•August 7 - The Neighbors - Bluegrass•August 14 - The Blue Notes Dixieland Jazz Band•August 21 - Family Ties - Bluegrass•August 28 - The Forget-Me-Nots - Celtic, ClassicalSee the website at ValleCrucisPark.org or call the Park Office at 828-963-9239During the month of AUGUST - Banner ELk NCThe Tate Evans Park in Banner Elk is located behind the Bank of America building off Highway 194 and features a play area, doggy area, a ¼ mile walking path, a stream, gardens, pavilions, picnic tables, grills and playground equipment. During the summer months, you can bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the summer concerts in the park sponsored by the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce. These free summer concerts take place on Thursday evenings throughout the months of July & August and usually start around 6:30 p.m. You will find food vendors there or bring your own picnic.

Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, NC High Country - August 2009 Events

Beech Mountain - August 1, 2009
The Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce is preparing for their 28th Annual Crafts on the Green festival. The festival will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2009 on the top of Beech Mountain. Approximately 70 craftspeople are expected to be there with a variety of items ranging from fine jewelry, woodturnings, photography, and other craft items. Live music, a magic show, and food will all be on hand at Beech Mountain’s 28th Annual Crafts on the Green. The festival will run from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Sunday Concerts at Fred’s - Beech Mountain August 2 & 9, 2009
Summer Sunday concerts are featured at Fred’s Gazebo with lots of fun for the whole family. Each Sunday starting at 6:30pm. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506.

Summer Guided Hikes Beech Moutain - August 4, 2009
Take the Beech Creek Bog Trail - 1.8 miles. Check in at the Beech Mountain Chamber and enjoy nature at it's best. For more information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506. www.hikebeechmountain.com



Ski Beech - Beech Mountain - August 8-9. 2009
Downhill Mountain Bike Racing Returns to Beech Mountain Resort with reintroduction of Triple Crown Series! Bike race dates are set for the 2009 Triple Crown Bike Race: August 8-9; September 5-6. For more info - see the website
http://www.skibeech.com/news/26.html


Street Dance at Town Hall - Beech Mountain - August 15, 2009
August 15, 2009 Our D.J., Mac Mast, is a master at reading the crowd and playing music that will get your heart pumping and your feet moving. Music starts at 7 pm, weather permitting. This is a free event, brought to you by the members of the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. For additional information, call the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506.
Frogmore Stew

Beech Mountain Club - August 14, 2009
Good lo country shrimp boil at the Beech Mountain Club Pavilion. Everyone welcome. Reservation recommended. Price TBD 6pm-9pm Music by Jesse Smith (singing Jimmy Buffet tunes)

Banner Elk - Lees McRae - August 11, 2009
Lees McRae presents "Everything is Rosie" starring Wendy Hayes, is a one woman show that pays tribute to the life and musical contributions of one of America's favorite girl singers . . . Rosemary Clooney! Tuesday, Aug 11 at 7:30 pm Hayes Auditorium - Lees McRae Tickets: $ 20.00 - General Admission Buy tickets at the box office or at the dooror check online http://www.lmc.edu/web/SummerTheatre/All shows will be held in Hayes Auditorium. Box office hours: Noon - 5 pm, Monday - FridayBox office phone: 828-898-8709

Summer Guided Hikes - Beech Mountain August 18 , 2009
August 18, 2009 Take the Westerly HillsTrail - 4.5 miles. Check in at the Beech Mountain Chamber and enjoy nature at it's best. For more information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506. www.hikebeechmountain.com



Grandfather Mountain - August 15-16,2009
Daily Naturalist Programs
Grandfather Mountain naturalists present a special nature program each day during the summer(August). The one-hour programs are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and are included in the price of admission. 800-468-7325
Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera Clinic
Aug. 15-16
Top photographers gather to share on the nuts & bolts of making good photographs. 2009 speakers include Bill Fortney, John Chastain, Duane Hall and Melissa Southern. Free to working press, additional cost for non-professionals. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is required. Online registration begins July 15. 800-468-7325



Banner Elk - Lees McRae August 22, 2009

Marvin Hamlisch in Concert at the Hayes Auditorium - Lees McRae College Banner Elk NC - Saturday August 22, 2009 7:30pm
Call 828-898-8719 or click the link to buy tickets online..
http://www.lmc.edu/web/specialevents/marvin_hamlisch.htm



Valle Crucis Park - Valle Crucis NC August Dates

See website at ValleCrucisPark.org or call the Park Office at 828-963-9239.
Music in the Park 2009 Schedule

All performances begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
•August 7 - The Neighbors - Bluegrass

•August 14 - The Blue Notes Dixieland Jazz Band

•August 21 - Family Ties - Bluegrass

•August 28 - The Forget-Me-Nots - Celtic, Classical

See the website at ValleCrucisPark.org or call the Park Office at 828-963-9239



During the month of AUGUST - Banner ELk NC

The Tate Evans Park in Banner Elk is located behind the Bank of America building off Highway 194 and features a play area, doggy area, a ¼ mile walking path, a stream, gardens, pavilions, picnic tables, grills and playground equipment. During the summer months, you can bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the summer concerts in the park sponsored by the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce. These free summer concerts take place on Thursday evenings throughout the months of July & August and usually start around 6:30 p.m. You will find food vendors there or bring your own picnic.

Hawksnest - The Newest Zipline in NC's High Country

Hawksnest Resort in Seven Devils, NC has always been known as a skiing destination until last year... They switched over entirely to Snow Tubing.....now they have added the longest Zipline on the East Coast.... over 2 miles of zipping!!

At the Hawksnest Zipline, you can ride 13 different cables taking you through the trees, over creeks and even over snow tubers during the winter months. Make sure you try the SuperZip cable that is over 2500 feet in length and over 200 feet high.

The zipline course is set in the middle of some of the best views in the High Country. Zipline riding is an exciting and safe experience for the entire family; children must be 5 years old to ride. In addition to being the largest zipline course on the east coast they are a great value.

The course progresses in length and speed. Professional guides accompany each group of riders, providing advice and safety tips along the way. According to the guides, the first-timer’s tentative step off tower number one into nothingness is soon replaced with their exclamations of “whoopee.” The learning curve is quick, the guides said.

Check the great rates at Hawksnest Zipline. Please call ahead for updates and reservations. Tour TimesTours start at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm. Reservations are required. No single person tours, must be 2 zipliners for tour. You can buy your tickets online at the Hawksnest website or call us at 828-963-6561 or 800-822-4295.

Tour Rates

Ride the first 6 cables and SuperZip cable
$65

Ride 12 cables
$65

Ride 14 cables and SuperZip cable
$90

Hawksnest is located just off Hwy 105 between Boone and Banner Elk NC..

2058 Skyland Drive Seven Devils NC 28604

1.800.822.4295 828-963-6561

From Interstate 40 take Hwy 321 North or Hwy 221 North to Highway 105. You'll see the sign at the entrance to Seven Devils. Just follow the signs up the mountain.

Info and Photos from HighCountryPress.com and http://www.hawksnest-resort.com/

Also check out our trip to ScreamTime Zipline near Boone NC