Halloween in Downtown Spruce Pine
Trick-or-Treat!
Friday, October 31st
Halloween is almost here and we are ready for a spooky good time.
Pumpkin Carving Contest
Pumpkin Carving Contest!
Saturday, October 25th at noon.
Carve your pumpkins and bring them to the pocket park on Lower Street for a chance to win fabulous prizes!
Show off your pumpkin carving skills in one of two age groups, 15 + under and 16+, for a chance to win Halloween-themed prizes. There will also be a pumpkin craft for all ages.
Prize Categories:
Scariest
Silliest
Most Creative
Spruce Pine Potters Market
Join us for the 2025 Spruce Pine Potters Market, a celebrated two-day showcase of exceptional ceramic art in the heart of the Blue Ridge. This juried event features work from some of the region’s finest potters, offering everything from functional wares to sculptural pieces. Meet the artists and discover one-of-a-kind pottery in a welcoming indoor setting. Admission is free, and all are welcome.
For more details, visit: www.sprucepinepottersmarket.com
Spruce Pine BBQ Festival
GREAT Food & GREAT Music:
A COMBO THAT CAN’T BE BEAT!
We are coming back! Helene dealt Spruce Pine a big blow, but we are returning to Locust Avenue (Lower Street) with the can’t-miss combination of different varieties of barbecue served with a heaping helping of great music from bluegrass, country, classic rock, and traditional genres along with food & craft vendors, events, and games galore, you’ll get your heart (and your belly) full of good stuff. Check out what we offer!
Friends of the Spruce Pine Public Library 4th Annual Booksale
Preview Party – 4th Annual Friends of the Spruce Pine Public Library Book Sale
Join us for the Preview Party on Friday, October 3, from 4–6 PM in the Spruce Pine Public Library Community Room!
As a Friend of the Library, you’ll enjoy first pick of this year’s incredible book sale offerings. Plus, there will be door prizes, live music, and light refreshments to make the evening even more special.
This is also a wonderful opportunity to renew your Friends membership or join as a new Friend of the Library. Memberships are just $10 per year.
The Friends of the Library is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the Spruce Pine Public Library through fundraising, advocacy, and volunteering. Our Annual Book Sale (October 4–11 during library hours) is our biggest fundraiser of the year—your support helps keep our library thriving!
All Friends are welcome—come celebrate books, community, and the library we love.
Third Thursday
Thursday, September 18th, 2025
5:00 PM 8:00 PM
Get ready to experience another unforgettable evening at Third Thursday in Downtown Spruce Pine! From 5 to 8 PM, the bustling streets between Link and Crystal streets will come alive with the vibrant energy of our community gathering.
Start your adventure by perusing the local farmers and makers market, where you'll find an abundance of fresh produce, handcrafted treasures, and artisanal goods lovingly crafted by talented locals. Engage with the artisans and farmers as you explore their offerings, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of our community's creativity and passion.
Mark your calendars and join us on September 18th for Third Thursday in Downtown Spruce Pine. It's an evening filled with community, culture, and celebration that you won't want to miss!
Photography 2-Day Workshop: In Person
Topic: Marketing and Sales
You need visuals to represent your business on your website and social media. Make sure that they’re not terrible. In this class designed for people who aren’t professional photographers, Bob Mackowski will give you some basic, entry-level tips to use with any camera (yes, even your cell phone) and you’ll spend time with hands-on practice. Your business isn’t awful; make sure that your visuals don’t make it look that way.
Please bring a camera or phone to class with you for the hands-on portion.
9/ 1 5 D I Y F O O D A N D P R O D U C T P H O T O G R A P H Y - 3 : 0 0 P M
9 / 1 5 H A N D S - O N B U S I N E S S P H O TO G R A P Y - 5 : 3 0 P M
9 / 1 6 H A N D S - O N V I D EO M A R K E T I N G - 1 0 : 0 0 A M
North Carolina Hellbender Festival
The North Carolina Hellbender Festival takes place on Saturday, August 30, 2025, in downtown Spruce Pine. This free, family-friendly event celebrates the Eastern hellbender salamander and the rivers it calls home. From 10 AM to 8 PM, visitors can enjoy a full day of live music, local food trucks, a regional maker and art market, and hands-on science and river education activities for all ages. The festival highlights the importance of clean, healthy waterways through interactive exhibits, outdoor recreation demos, and community-led conservation efforts. Join us in honoring Appalachian biodiversity, supporting environmental stewardship, and enjoying a lively mountain-town celebration in the heart of the Blue Ridge.
Website: www.HellbenderFestival.com
Slice and Dice!
Slice and Dice
Adventure is just around the corner with a 6 week campaign, meeting every Tuesday at the Visitor Center! Join us for a fun series of rpg with free pizza. This first evening, we will be creating characters. Did we mention we have air conditioning? Your character may be blasted by dragon flame, but you will be cool.
For more information email brodyjhenson@gmail.com
Downtown Clean-up
Spruce up downtown Spruce Pine! All are welcome. Gloves, bags, and masks provided.
Slice and Dice!
Slice and Dice
Adventure is just around the corner with a 6 week campaign, meeting every Tuesday at the Visitor Center! Join us for a fun series of rpg with free pizza. This first evening, we will be creating characters. Did we mention we have air conditioning? Your character may be blasted by dragon flame, but you will be cool.
For more information email brodyjhenson@gmail.com
Slice and Dice!
Slice and Dice
Adventure is just around the corner with a 6 week campaign, meeting every Tuesday at the Visitor Center! Join us for a fun series of rpg with free pizza. This first evening, we will be creating characters. Did we mention we have air conditioning? Your character may be blasted by dragon flame, but you will be cool.
For more information email brodyjhenson@gmail.com
Slice and Dice!
Slice and Dice
Adventure is just around the corner with a 6 week campaign, meeting every Tuesday at the Visitor Center! Join us for a fun series of rpg with free pizza. This first evening, we will be creating characters. Did we mention we have air conditioning? Your character may be blasted by dragon flame, but you will be cool.
For more information email brodyjhenson@gmail.com
Slice and Dice!
Slice and Dice
Adventure is just around the corner with a 6 week campaign, meeting every Tuesday at the Visitor Center! Join us for a fun series of rpg with free pizza. This first evening, we will be creating characters. Did we mention we have air conditioning? Your character may be blasted by dragon flame, but you will be cool.
For more information email brodyjhenson@gmail.com
Glitter Garden
Glitter Garden
July 14th and 28th
All Ages
165 Locust, Pocket Park
Free Face painting, hair tinsel and nail polish!
41st Annual Grassy Creek Mineral And Gem Show
Join us for the 41st Annual Grassy Creek Mineral and Gem Show, hosted by Parkway Fire and Rescue to raise funds for new equipment for our local fire stations.
Over 60 vendors from around the world will offer a wide variety of lapidary and mineral-related items, including:
Gemstones
Minerals
Jewelry
Fossils
Quartz
Lapidary equipment and supplies
Event Details:
Dates: July 27 – August 3, 2025
(Some vendors may open early on Saturday, July 26, depending on setup.)Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
(Some vendors may open earlier or stay later.)Admission & Parking: Free
Food: On-site vendors available, with restaurants nearby
Facilities: Regular restrooms and showers available
Pet Policy: Well-mannered dogs are welcome on a leash
All are welcome!
Location:
136 Majestic View, Spruce Pine, NC
Located on the hill above Skyview Circle, behind the Parkway Fire and Rescue station on Hwy 226 South.
For more information or vendor applications:
🌐 grassycreekgemshow.org
📧 info@grassycreekgemshow.org
📞 Office: 828-765-2117 | Roger Frye: 828-385-2884 | Donna Collis: 828-766-5492
Top to Toe 5k
The Top to Toe 5K is set for Saturday, July 26, 2025, starting at 9:00 AM in Spruce Pine, NC. Hosted by The Quartz Corp and the Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce, this adventurous point-to-point run descends from the high‑purity quartz surface mine atop Chalk Mountain down to Lower Street in downtown Spruce Pine. The mixed dirt-and-pavement route is open to both competitive runners and families, and each registrant receives a free t‑shirt and admission to the NC Mineral & Gem Festival. Shuttles will run from the finish area back to the starting line, with the last shuttle departing at 8:30 AM. After crossing the finish line, participants can enjoy a lively street festival featuring food vendors, music, scavenger hunts, and local shops. All race proceeds benefit the Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce and NC Mineral & Gem Festival efforts.
Slice and Dice!
Slice and Dice
Adventure is just around the corner with a 6 week campaign, meeting every Tuesday at the Visitor Center! Join us for a fun series of rpg with free pizza. This first evening, we will be creating characters. Did we mention we have air conditioning? Your character may be blasted by dragon flame, but you will be cool.
For more information email brodyjhenson@gmail.com
Chalk It Up!
Chalk it Up!
Chalk Lettering for Impact & Creating Street Smart Signs
Monday July 21st, 6:00 - 8:00
Join us for the evening to learn the basics of chalkboard lettering and best practices for creating a sidewalk sandwich board. Refreshments will be provided, and the first 5 businesses to register will receive a free sandwich board!
*Please note that this class is only open to business owners within the downtown district of Spruce Pine*
Third Thursday - July
Get ready to experience another unforgettable evening at Third Thursdays in Downtown Spruce Pine! From 5 to 8 PM, the bustling streets between Link and Crystal streets will come alive with the vibrant energy of our community gathering.
Slice and Dice!
Slice and Dice
Adventure is just around the corner with a 6 week campaign, meeting every Tuesday at the Visitor Center! Join us for a fun series of rpg with free pizza. This first evening, we will be creating characters. Did we mention we have air conditioning? Your character may be blasted by dragon flame, but you will be cool.
For more information email brodyjhenson@gmail.com
Glitter Garden
Glitter Garden
July 14th and 28
All Ages
165 Locust, Pocket Park
Free Face painting, hair tinsel and nail polish!
Independence Day Celebration
Join us on July 5th for an Independence Day celebration in Downtown Spruce Pine! There will be vendors, kids activities, a parade, live music by @savingshirleyband, and fireworks.
This event is brought to you by the Town of Spruce Pine, and sponsored by: Mitchell County Chamber, Town of Spruce Pine, Kiwanis International, Sibelco Group, Downtown Spruce Pine
Email us at info@discoversprucepine.com for questions or more information.
Third Thursday - June
Get ready to experience another unforgettable evening at Third Thursdays in Downtown Spruce Pine, this time on June 19th! From 5 to 8 PM, the bustling streets between Link and Crystal streets will come alive with the vibrant energy of our community gathering.
Start your adventure by perusing the local farmers and makers market, where you'll find an abundance of fresh produce, handcrafted treasures, and artisanal goods lovingly crafted by talented locals. Engage with the artisans and farmers as you explore their offerings, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of our community's creativity and passion.
Mark your calendars and join us on June 19th for Third Thursdays in Downtown Spruce Pine. It's an evening filled with community, culture, and celebration that you won't want to miss!
Third Thursday - May
Get ready to experience another unforgettable evening at Third Thursdays in Downtown Spruce Pine, this time on May 15th! From 5 to 8 PM, the bustling streets between Link and Crystal streets will come alive with the vibrant energy of our community gathering.
Start your adventure by perusing the local farmers and makers market, where you'll find an abundance of fresh produce, handcrafted treasures, and artisanal goods lovingly crafted by talented locals. Engage with the artisans and farmers as you explore their offerings, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of our community's creativity and passion.
Mark your calendars and join us on May 15th for Third Thursdays in Downtown Spruce Pine. From the vibrant market to the captivating music of Jeri Katherine Howell it's an evening filled with community, culture, and celebration that you won't want to miss!
EMBERS Celebration
Join us to celebrate the artists of Embers from 4 - 6PM on May 15th @ Treats Studios
EMBERS - Blacksmith Exhibition
Visit the Gallery: Wednesday - Friday 11AM-4PM
Exhibition Celebration: May 15th 4 - 6PM
Embers is a group exhibition dedicated to giving young or early career blacksmiths and metal artists the opportunity to showcase their work during and after the annual Fire on the Mountain festival in Downtown Spruce Pine.
The goal of this exhibition is to make Fire on the Mountain even more open to the next generation of blacksmiths and metalsmiths, as well as artists who are otherwise unable to exhibit their work in traditional structures. We are honored to show this group of craftspeople as they continue to grow and support the future of blacksmithing in our community.
Fire on the Mountain
Fire on the Mountain is an annual celebration of the art of the blacksmith that is always held on the last Saturday in April in Downtown Spruce Pine, NC. The event is a partnership between Spruce Pine Main Street, Penland School of Craft, and the Toe River Arts. Each year, the festival contains blacksmith demonstrations, blacksmith vendor booths, youth and adult forge-off, hands-on tents, kids’ activities, food, and more. Originating in 2007 as a local festival, the festival was originally called “Hammerin’ on the Toe.”
Rural Revival Project | Featuring Oliver Anthony
Event Goals
Raise Funds for Recovery: Support families, displaced individuals, and local businesses as they work to rebuild their lives and communities.
Strengthen Partnerships: Engage with local, regional, and national organizations to enhance community resilience and collaboration.
Increase National Exposure: Share Spruce Pine’s recovery story with a wider audience, showcasing the community’s strength and determination.
Boost Local Economy: Provide a positive economic impact through participation from local vendors and sponsorships, supporting the area’s businesses as they recover.
Together, we can help Spruce Pine, NC rise stronger than ever!
Speaker Schedule at Toe River Arts
A Time to Heal
12-12:45pm Healing on a Homestead:
After Hurricane Helene’s devastation many homesteads and farms are in recovery mode. Healing mode. This panel will be about different ways to go about the renovation and restoration of farms and homesteads. Of soil and of minds. Marianne started one of the largest and most fertile biodynamic farms in the region, but when she sold it and moved to Spruce Pine, it fell into disrepair. Last year, Oliver Anthony purchased Marianne’s old farm and is in the process of working with her to renovate it; with plans to turn it into a site for military veterans to heal through farming. Gabby is deeply passionate about healing herbs and medicines, and has a ravine at her homestead in Alberta, Canada where she grows and tends to plants that have the capability to heal both body and spirit. She will be providing insight and guidance on how people can grow their own pharmacy in a garden.
Speakers:
Oliver Anthony, Musician, Homesteader - Farmville, VA
Marianne Cicala, Homesteader - Spruce Pine, NC
Gabby Kova, Herbalist, Healer - Alberta, Canada
12:45 -1:00pm - Break
1:00 - 1:45- Faith through hard times
When hard times hit during our lives, it can be difficult to get through. Johnny, a lifelong farmer has seen more than his share of hardship, however, he has been able to not only survive, but thrive thanks to his enduring faith. When the hurricane hit last year, Pastor Mike got to work helping people, handing out supplies, providing vehicles and rebuilding homes. His faith has pushed him to serve people for a higher calling.
Speakers:
Johnny Glosson, Farmer- Siler City, NC
Pastor Mike Moore, Pastor- Hopewell, VA
Short Film Screening: Johnny Glosson
1:45 - 2:00pm - Break
2:00pm - 2:45pm - Cotton of the Carolinas: How our T-shirts are made
Did you know that 97% of America’s clothing is made outside of the United States? Eric Henry is the CEO of TS Designs, a North Carolina apparel company that makes its clothes from cotton grown in the Carolinas and in other locations in America. We’ll learn the ins and outs of how the t-shirts for the Rural Revival Project are made and talk about what it would take to bring more apparel manufacturing back to create jobs in America.
Speaker:
Eric Henry, CEO of TS Designs- Burlington, NC
2:45 - 3:00pm - Break
3:00 - 3:45 - An Unconventional Response
When Hurricane Helene hit, it was everyday citizens- not government agencies- that stepped up to help. Military veterans, Adam and Justin of Savage Freedoms were there for days coordinating relief efforts, recovering bodies, and transporting people to safety. After serving their nation abroad, they stepped up again to serve people in need right here at home. The storm also wiped out many homes and master builder and CEO of Wild Abundance Natalie and her team got to work rebuilding people’s homes. They used their expertise as natural builders to get people sheltered and back in homes before conventional systems were able to respond.
Speakers:
Natalie Bogwalker, Director of Wild Abundance, Asheville, NC
Justin Neal, Entrepreneur, Charlotte, NC
Adam Smith, CEO of Savage Freedoms, Asheville, NC
Short Film Screening: Savage Response
3:45 - 4:00pm Break
4:00 - 4:45pm Strengthening North Carolina Agriculture
As the old adage goes, crisis is usually a window for opportunity. Through that lens, we’ll address the challenges faced in North Carolina’s agriculture and the ways in which stronger systems can be built so that North Carolina and other states can become more self-sufficient, so that more communities are capable of feeding themselves. Suzanne Karreman is a dairy farmer in Saxapahaw, NC who is passionate about teaching people how to grow their own food, especially how to raise their own milk cows. Greg Gunthorp is a national leader in agriculture who runs a mult-species farm in LaGrange, Indiana. He recently testified before congress to discuss how we can better setup regional food systems in the meat industry so that small farmers and processors have less regulations.
Speakers:
Greg Gunthorp, Gunthorp Farms, LaGrange, IN
Suzanne Karreman, Reverence Farms, Saxapahaw, NC
Short Film Screening: Suzanne Karreman
Note: All discussions will be moderated by documentary journalist Graham Meriwether, Director of Agriculture, Rural Revival Project.
NC Main Street Panel Q&A
Do you have questions about the rebuilding process as a downtown business or building owner? Please attend this Q&A session. The NC Main Street & Rural Planning Center is working in tandem with Downtown Spruce Pine to bring several very knowledgeable folks to us including a representative from the State Historic Preservation Office, a preservation architect that is excellent on the building code, and a landscape architect that consults on downtown development. These folks can answer questions about your specific building issue.
This meeting will be casual but confidential and is geared towards getting you the answers that you need. Whether your question is about how building code affects your structural design, or the order of operations for rebuilding, or if you are simply seeking architectural resources, we are hoping to get a conversation going that will benefit your business and/or building.
Lunch will be served.