Apple Orchard Events You Don’t Want to Miss in Cherokee & North Georgia

Fall in North Georgia Means One Thing — Apple Season

When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to change, there’s no better way to celebrate fall than a trip to one of North Georgia’s apple orchards.

From Cherokee County up through Ellijay and Blue Ridge, these orchards come alive with festivals, live music, hayrides, and that unmistakable small-town charm that makes this region so special.

If you’re looking for the perfect weekend activity — this is it. Here’s a guide to the best apple orchard events you don’t want to miss this fall.

Cherokee County Apple Adventures

You don’t have to drive far to find that cozy orchard vibe. Right here in Cherokee County, two local favorites bring the full fall experience to life.

Berry Patch Farms – Woodstock, GA

This family-owned farm is a staple for Cherokee County families. You’ll find U-pick pumpkins, wagon rides, friendly farm animals, and a country store stocked with cider, honey, and plenty of homemade fall treats.
It’s the perfect stop for photos, snacks, and a quick taste of the season without leaving town.

Cagle’s Farm – Holly Springs, GA

Cagle’s brings the full harvest fun — complete with a corn maze, hayrides, and hands-on farm experiences for kids. It’s one of those rare spots where you can feel the spirit of fall the moment you pull in.

Whether you’re looking for a morning adventure with the family or just want to grab some local goodies, these are easy day trips with all the autumn vibes.

North Georgia Orchards: Ellijay, Blue Ridge & Beyond

If you’re craving the full apple orchard experience, head north to the mountains — where the views are as good as the cider.

B.J. Reece Orchards – Ellijay, GA

This is one of the liveliest orchards in Georgia. Beyond apple picking, you’ll find wagon rides, a petting zoo, giant slides, and even pig races. It’s as family-friendly as it gets and always packed with fun.

Hillcrest Orchards – Ellijay, GA

Home of the famous Apple Pickin’ Jubilee, Hillcrest is a must-visit. Expect live bluegrass music, clogging performances, and their legendary hot apple fritters fresh out of the fryer.

R&A Orchards – Ellijay, GA

Looking for a more peaceful day in the mountains? R&A offers a quieter, more laid-back experience with fresh-picked apples, farm-to-table goods, and sweeping mountain views.

Mercier Orchards – Blue Ridge, GA

One of the largest orchards in the Southeast, Mercier has it all — U-pick apples, a massive farm market, hard cider tastings, and panoramic scenery that’s tough to beat. It’s an iconic North Georgia stop every fall.

The Folk Collaborative – McCaysville, GA

This one’s a bit different — part apple orchard, part Appalachian folk experience. You’ll find storytelling, traditional crafts, herbal remedies, and of course, fresh apples and cider. It’s a beautiful blend of culture, community, and countryside living.

The Big One: Georgia Apple Festival in Ellijay

And then… there’s the Georgia Apple Festival — one of the biggest and most beloved fall events in the entire state.

For two weekends every October, downtown Ellijay completely transforms. You’ll find:

• Hundreds of local vendors and artists
  
  

• Parades through the square
  
  

• Handmade crafts and gifts
  
  

• Live music and performances
  
  

• And more apple pie, fritters, and cider than you could ever eat
  
  

It’s a true small-town Georgia experience, bringing thousands of visitors together to celebrate community, craftsmanship, and of course — apples.

Why It All Matters

These orchard events aren’t just about apples — they’re about connection.

They remind us why so many people love calling North Georgia home.
It’s about:

• Community over convenience
  
  

• Tradition over trends
  
  

• And that slower, more intentional lifestyle that you can’t find just anywhere
  
  

If you’re thinking about moving to Cherokee County or the North Georgia mountains, this is the kind of life you can look forward to — fresh air, local food, and festivals that bring people together.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re staying close to home at Berry Patch Farms or heading north to Ellijay, Blue Ridge, or McCaysville, make 2025 the year you get out and experience apple season the North Georgia way.

There’s no better time to fall in love with the place we call home.

To watch our entire video on this, check it out on YouTube here.  Apple Orchard Events You Don’t Want to Miss in Cherokee & North Georgia

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