Unfortunately, the smell of fall these days is not associated with that deep and earthy smell of the forest as leaves turn colors, but rather with the smell of Starbucks’ pumpkin spice latte. Sure, it’s good—but for me, fall has so much more to offer than a generic drink from a multi-billion-dollar company.
That’s why I want to highlight some things happening in Milligan’s area this fall that will top every drive-thru experience and probably cost less than a Grande pumpkin spice latte here in Johnson City ($6.84). Here are my suggestions on what to do instead:
Markets and Festivals
Blue Ridge Artisan Days is an indoor market and craft fair celebrating the fall season. The market will be happening on Oct. 24 from 3 to 7 p.m. and Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Appalachian Fairgrounds. Visitors can expect fall-themed arts and crafts from local artists, warm drinks and treats. Admission is free.
Roan Mountain Fall-O-Dendron Festival, Main Street Days and Made Around Here Market are some more markets and festivals happening in the area this fall.
The Unicoi County Apple Festival is another highlight in the fall after being cancelled in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene. The festival already took place this year, but is worth putting on your bucket list for next fall.
“It is a fun way to spend a few hours with good food. It is a cool craft fair to wander through,” said local Katelyn Williams. “It’s fun to go with friends and hang out. And eat the apples.”
Music Events
Acoustic Autumn is held at Founders Park amphitheater on five consecutive Thursdays, presenting free concerts. Every concert will feature a different small artist. The first concert happened on Oct. 2. All concerts start at 6 p.m.
Storytelling and Art
Jonesborough Pumpkin Party is happening on Oct. 29 on the west side of Courthouse Square in downtown Jonesborough. The event is all about carving pumpkins with the community and watching them light up Main Street. Pumpkins and carving tools will be available for $5. Registering early to save a spot is encouraged.
Furthermore, there will be Macabre: Tales of Poe and Woe on Oct. 23 starting at 7 p.m. The event takes place in Fischman Gallery in Johnson City, presenting a collection of short Edgar Allan Poe-inspired plays. A $5 donation is appreciated.
Orchards
Roan Valley Farms and Harvey Family Farm both offer special fall events. Harvey Family Farm has its Pickin’ & Pickin’ event on Oct. 11 from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Admission to enjoy some bluegrass and local food trucks is free. The price for flower picking starts at $15.
Nonetheless, I understand that on some days, there is no way around a pumpkin spice latte. So why not try out one of the local coffee shops in the area and explore their unique fall menus?
Cover Photo: Leaves turning colors on Milligan Campus in October 2024 (by Emily Haas)
