Events

In January, McDowell County, North Carolina, begins the year with reflection, service, and community focus:
New Year’s Day (January 1st) – A federal holiday marked by rest, family meals, and community church services welcoming the new year.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday of January) – Observed with school closures and local service projects. Community groups often host events in honor of Dr. King’s legacy of equality and unity.
January also offers peaceful winter hikes in areas like Pisgah National Forest and opportunities to support local indoor markets and art events.

In February, McDowell County, North Carolina, hosts cozy winter events and community celebrations:
Presidents’ Day (Third Monday of February) – A federal holiday with school closures and local observances, sometimes marked by historical programs at the Mountain Gateway Museum in Old Fort.
Valentine’s Day (February 14th) – Celebrated with themed dinners at local restaurants in Marion and Old Fort, as well as craft nights, dances, or family-friendly events at community centers and churches.
Keep an eye on local listings and City of Marion’s Facebook page for up-to-date events.

In March, McDowell County, North Carolina, welcomes the arrival of spring with several local events:
St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) – Enjoy Irish-themed dinners at local spots in Marion, live music, and festive decor at community centers and breweries.
Spring Break (Dates vary) – McDowell County Schools typically break mid-to-late March, giving families time to explore outdoor attractions like Lake James, Catawba Falls, and the Mountain Gateway Museum.
Marion Spring Market – This seasonal pop-up features local vendors, handmade crafts, and food trucks. Follow City of Marion’s Facebook page for updates.

In April, McDowell County, North Carolina, embraces spring with community and outdoor-focused events:
Good Friday (Friday before Easter) – Many schools and offices close. Local churches host services, and families gather for reflection.
Easter Sunday (date varies) – Celebrated with sunrise services, egg hunts, and family meals across Marion, Old Fort, and surrounding areas.
Earth Day (April 22nd) – Local organizations and schools lead clean-up events, tree plantings, and nature activities, especially in areas like the Catawba River Greenway and Lake James.
Stay up to date with local events via the City of Marion Facebook page.

In May, McDowell County, North Carolina, celebrates the season with community events and outdoor fun:
Mother’s Day (Second Sunday in May) – Honored with special brunches at local restaurants, church services, and family gatherings across Marion and Old Fort.
Memorial Day (Last Monday in May) – Marked with patriotic ceremonies, flag placements, and remembrance events at local cemeteries and veterans' memorials.
Spring Outdoor Activities – May offers perfect weather for hiking to Catawba Falls, kayaking on Lake James, and attending festivals like the WNC Bigfoot Festival in Marion.
Visit the City of Marion Facebook page for event announcements and updates.

In June, McDowell County, North Carolina, welcomes summer with vibrant events and outdoor fun:
Father’s Day (Third Sunday in June) – Celebrated with hikes, cookouts, fishing trips, and family time at places like Lake James or along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Summer Outdoor Adventures – June kicks off prime season for hiking Catawba Falls, kayaking, camping, and exploring Pisgah National Forest. Watch for summer concerts and movie nights in downtown Marion.

In July, McDowell County, North Carolina, celebrates summer with patriotic events and outdoor fun:
Independence Day (July 4th) – Marked by fireworks, parades, and live music in Marion and Old Fort, along with community picnics and family activities.
Red, White & Blue Festival (Early July) – A family-friendly celebration in downtown Marion with vendors, entertainment, food trucks, and fireworks.
Summer Adventures – July is perfect for hiking in Pisgah National Forest, swimming or kayaking on Lake James, and enjoying free outdoor concerts or movie nights in the park.

In August, McDowell County, North Carolina, winds down summer with community events and outdoor exploration:
Back-to-School Events – Local schools and organizations host supply drives, family fun days, and readiness fairs to help students prepare for the new school year.
WNC Bigfoot Festival (Early June) – A quirky, family-friendly festival in Marion featuring themed vendors, live music, food trucks, and activities celebrating the legendary Bigfoot.
Outdoor Music & Movies – Free summer concert series and movie nights continue in downtown Marion and local parks, drawing families and visitors.
Late-Summer Adventures – August is ideal for hiking, paddleboarding, and camping at Lake James, exploring Linville Caverns, or enjoying peaceful evenings along the Catawba River Greenway.

In September, McDowell County, NC, hosts fall‑themed events and cultural celebrations:
Culturas Unidas Festival (mid‑September) – Held downtown Marion, this free festival celebrates Latino and Hispanic culture with music, traditional dance, food vendors, and local artisans
Little Switzerland Fall Fest (last weekend of September) – Features German music, hayrides, arts, storytelling, and family fun in the charming mountain village
McDowell Democrats & Republicans Meetings – Community-focused political gatherings (e.g., Democrats at Marion Community Building around Sept 25).
Encourage visitors and locals alike to check the McDowell Chamber and City of Marion event calendars for updates!

In October, McDowell County, North Carolina, celebrates fall with vibrant festivals and seasonal fun:
Mountain Glory Festival (Mid-October) – Held in downtown Marion, this signature event features local crafts, music, food vendors, kids’ activities, and autumn produce.
Fall at the Farm Events – Local farms host pumpkin patches, corn mazes, hayrides, and harvest markets throughout the month.
Halloween Festivities (Late October) – Includes community trunk-or-treats, haunted houses, and family events hosted by churches and local businesses.
October is also perfect for scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway to view the peak fall foliage.

In November, McDowell County, North Carolina, honors tradition and prepares for the holiday season:
Veterans Day (November 11th) – Local ceremonies and parades honor those who served, often organized by veteran groups and schools in Marion and surrounding communities.
Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November) – A cherished holiday marked by family gatherings, special church services, and local outreach events providing meals for those in need.
Small Business Saturday (Saturday after Thanksgiving) – Downtown Marion encourages holiday shopping with promotions, pop-up vendors, and festive storefronts in support of local businesses.

In December, McDowell County, North Carolina, celebrates the holiday season with festive charm:
Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting (early December) – Held in downtown Marion, this annual event features floats, music, Santa visits, and the official lighting of the town’s Christmas tree.
Hometown Holiday Festivities – Local businesses host holiday markets, themed shopping nights, and family-friendly events throughout the month.
Christmas Day (December 25th) – A time for family gatherings, special church services, and community warmth across the county.