Join Us for the 2025 Georgia Apple Festival

For 54 fun-filled years, the Georgia Apple Festival has brought two exciting weekends in October to Gilmer County. Ellijay and East Ellijay hosts hundreds of vendors with handmade, hand-crafted items, on-site demonstrations, live music, and delicious fair food.

The festival is named after the ripening apples that you can find all over the area at local orchards. Despite its growth from a small arts & crafts show to the four-day event that it has become today, the Georgia Apple Festival continues to be a big show with a small-town feel.

The Georgia Apple Festival features some of the Nation’s finest artists and crafters. A wide variety of unique, hand-made creations, live music, and fantastic festival food are offered throughout the event.

Schedule of Events:

8:00 am - 10:00 am: Georgia Apple Festival 5K and Road Race

Get Ready to Run Ellijay!

Join us on Saturday, October 11, 2025, for the 49th Annual Georgia Apple Festival 5K Road Race, featuring a 5K, a 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk, and the always adorable Tot Trot!

Whether you’re racing for a personal best, enjoying a casual morning walk, or cheering on the tiniest trotters, this event is all about community, fitness, and fall fun in the heart of Ellijay.

Start Times:

5K: 8:00 AM
1 Mile: 8:45 AM
Tot Trot: Right after the 1-mile finishes

Cost: $30 - $35

Click Here to Download Application

10:00 am - 12:00 pm: Georgia Apple Festival Parade

Join us in Downtown Ellijay on Saturday, October 11th, at 10:00 AM for the annual Georgia Apple Festival Parade!

This year’s theme, “Happily Ever Ellijay” is inspired by the charm, beauty, and bounty of Gilmer County, and is a chance to celebrate everything that makes our home so special. From orchards to the mountains, Ellijay feels like a fairytale. This free, family-friendly event is the perfect way to kick off the first weekend of the Georgia Apple Festival.

Awards will be given for first, second, and third place floats that best align with the theme. No registration fee required. Applications close on Friday, October 3rd at 5:00 PM.

Click Here for Parade Application