Mark Your Calendar for these 2026 July Events in the High Country
By Chris Murphy
The month is full of fun and exciting events in the High Country, from Boone and Blowing Rock to Banner Elk. Whether you’re searching for family-friendly events, food and drink events, live music or free festivals, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Be sure to pick up a High Country Visitors Guide to find even more events throughout the year.
Top July 2026 Events in the High Country
Here are our top events happening in Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk.
Ongoing-July 31: An Appalachian Summer Festival
Presented by Appalachian State University’s Office of Arts Engagement and Cultural Resources, this annual celebration of the performing and visual arts is held every July in venues across the university campus, and features an eclectic mix of music, dance, theatre, visual arts and film programming.
Ongoing-July 31: Horn in the West
Horn In The West is our nation’s longest-running Revolutionary War outdoor drama. The play brings to life the story of the hardy pioneers who, with the help of famed frontiersman Daniel Boone and Cherokee allies, settled in the Blue Ridge wilderness as they sought freedom from British tyranny. This adventure has offered thrilling outdoor entertainment to generations of visitors since it premiered in 1952. The 2026 season, celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary, will run from June 26th to August 8th. Shows are Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
July 4: Boone 4th of July Parade
The Downtown Boone annual 4th of July parade travels east on King Street, starting at the intersection with Poplar Grove Extension and ending at Legends on Hardin St. (around the corner from Dan’l Boone Inn). Following the parade, the Town of Boone continues the celebration with free cookies and refreshments on the lawn of the Jones House Cultural and Community Center (604 W. King Street). Later that evening, check out the festivities at Clawson/Burnley Park (355 Hunting Hills Lane) starting at 7:00 p.m., with music followed by fireworks starting 30 minutes after dark.
July 4: Sugar Mountain Summit Crawl
Run, hike, climb, or crawl as fast as you can to Sugar Mountain’s 5,300-foot peak by way of the Easy Street, Gunther’s Way, and Northridge slopes on July 4, when Sugar Mountain Resort hosts its annual Summit Crawl. You must register online. No day of registration. Entry fee includes a t-shirt and downhill transportation on the Summit Express lift. The start whistle blows at 9 am for all categories. Sugar Mountain Food Services will be open, along with live music by Dark Horse, from 10 am to 1 pm.
July 9-12: Grandfather Mountain Highland Games
The spectacular scenery in MacRae Meadows at the base of historic Grandfather Mountain provides an ideal setting. The games include brawny athletes, delicate dancers, noisy bagpipe band parades, rocking Celtic music and plenty of kilts. Visit the heritage tent to research your family tree and then head to the merchant tents to find your family tartan. More info: gmhg.org
July 29: Price Lake Full Moon Paddle
Price Lake Boat Rentals will be offering canoes, double kayaks, and single kayaks for rent to enjoy paddling around under the full moon! See Price Lake and the Blue Ridge Parkway from a whole new light. Registration is required ahead of time. Life jackets, paddles, and head lamps will be provided on site. Dogs are not allowed during Full Moon Paddles. We’re located at milepost 297 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Blowing Rock.
Want more Events?
CALENDAR: Check out our High Country calendar of events to help plan your activities!
NEWSLETTER: Or sign up for our High Country Destination Newsletter to receive exclusive content for planning your vacation getaway to the North Carolina High Country!
