Plan Your Trip: Greening Up the Mountains Festival
The Blue Ridge Mountains reawaken each spring in fresh shades of green, and one Saturday in historic downtown Sylva becomes the community’s joyful return to the season: Greening Up the Mountains. On April 25, 2026, Main Street will once again fill with music drifting between storefronts, artisan tents lining the sidewalks and makers sharing their craft and creativity with thousands of visitors.
Now in its 28th year, this festival that began as a small Earth Day gathering has grown into Sylva’s signature spring tradition, reflecting the enduring creative spirit of the Appalachian Mountains through community pride, handcrafted artistry and the unmistakable lift of the season in full bloom.
A Day Filled with Music, Makers and Mountain Flavor
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the festival hums with energy. The day traditionally begins with a scenic 5K, setting an uplifting tone before the streets fill with families, artists and entertainers. Throughout the afternoon, live music weaves together traditional mountain sounds and contemporary Appalachian rhythms. This year’s lineup reflects both heritage and evolution, featuring the Junior Appalachian Musicians®, an after-school program that introduces young players to fiddle, banjo and guitar rooted in regional tradition; Bird In Hand, the husband-and-wife duo Bryan and Megan Thurman whose Smoky Mountain home shapes their fresh yet folk-rooted sound; the lively Fuzzy Peppers; and PMA Positive Mental Attitude, bringing a vibrant blend of Dub Reggae influences to the stage.
More than 150 artisan vendors transform downtown into an open-air gallery. Handcrafted pottery, jewelry, stained glass, soaps, candles, paintings and woodwork invite visitors to linger and connect with the makers behind each creation. Food vendors serve festival favorites alongside regional specialties, while local craft breweries highlight beverage arts that celebrate the flavors of Western North Carolina. With wide-open streets and a welcoming atmosphere, the event is designed for all ages to enjoy.
Turn Festival Day into a Mountain Weekend
While Greening Up the Mountains fills the heart of Sylva, the surrounding landscape offers even more to explore. Before or after the festival, stroll along the Tuckasegee River Greenway as the water reflects the season’s first green canopy, or take a short drive to nearby overlooks for sweeping Blue Ridge vistas in bloom.
To linger a little longer, book a stay in the heart of it all. Hotel Sylva offers boutique comfort just steps from downtown, making it easy to walk to festival events and local dining. For those craving mountain views and extra space, Sylva’s vacation rentals — including elevated cabins and thoughtfully designed retreats featured in our bucket list stays — offer cozy porches, layered ridgeline views and quiet mornings with coffee in hand.
When it’s time to unwind, settle into one of Sylva’s inviting restaurants such as Dalaya Thai Cuisine or Ilda, the James Beard recognized restaurant serving seasonal Italian-Appalachian fare. Just minutes away, the charming town of Dillsboro makes for an easy outing. Savor slow-smoked brisket and classic sides at Haywood Smokehouse, then stop by Dillsboro Chocolate Factory for a handcrafted sweet treat before heading back to Sylva as the mountains settle into dusk.
Welcome Spring in Jackson County
Greening Up the Mountains reflects what makes this corner of North Carolina so special – creativity rooted in tradition, community spirit and a deep appreciation for the natural world. With music in the streets, handcrafted art at every turn and the mountains rising all around, it offers a beautiful way to welcome spring in Jackson County.
Start planning your visit and learn more at DiscoverJacksonNC.com.
Photos courtesy JCTDA, ILDA & Luke Sutton