Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 11th, because Marion, North Carolina, is ready to welcome YOU to one of the region's most beloved autumn celebrations.
Four Decades in the Making
Mountain Glory Festival has spotlighted regional makers and the joys of small-town living since 1984. What started as a local gathering has evolved into a vibrant celebration of autumn in beautiful downtown Marion, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
What to Expect
From 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, festivities take place on the courthouse lawn and along three blocks of downtown, creating an immersive experience that showcases the best of Appalachian culture and craftsmanship.
Keep an eye out for Bigfoot, Marion's beloved mascot, who might make special appearances throughout downtown during the festival!
Shopping and Crafts
More than 150 booths featuring handmade crafts, delicious festival foods, nonprofit organizations, and community sponsors. Local Marion businesses will also be open throughout the day, offering additional shopping, dining, and drink options to complement your festival experience.
- Mountain Glory Quilt Show: Visit the McDowell Arts Council at 50 S Main St. to view this annual exhibition, which serves as the gallery's featured October exhibit. This showcase of traditional and contemporary quilting represents the region's rich textile heritage.
Food and Drink
Satisfy your appetite with festival foods and visit local pubs offering wines, mead, and beers. The festival celebrates regional flavors, giving visitors an authentic taste of mountain hospitality and local culinary traditions.
Family-Friendly Fun
The festival caters to visitors of all ages with special attractions designed for families:
- Kid's Korner offers hands-on activities including tutu-making, spin art, a fishing booth, and balloon art. Children will have endless entertainment while parents browse the vendor booths.
- Don't miss the Best Dressed Pet Contest on the Family Stage at 1:30 PM - a beloved tradition that brings out the creativity of local pet owners and provides entertainment for the whole family.
Live Entertainment All Day
Two stages will present Marion's finest musicians and performers throughout the day:
- City Stage (North Main Street):
- 11:00 AM – Greg Conley
- 12:00 PM – Addie's Chapel Adult Choir
- 2:00 PM – Das Oompapas
- Family Stage (Courthouse Lawn):
- 10:00 AM – Little Miss McDowell, Valerie Foster
- 10:30 AM – The Dance Box
- 11:30 AM – Le Petit Dance Studio
- 12:30 PM – Above the Barre Dance Academy
- 1:30 PM – Best Dressed Pet Contest
- 2:00 PM – The Young Bohemians Youth String Band
- 3:00 PM – McDowell High Titan Chorus
Local entertainment continues throughout the day with performances from musicians, choirs, dance studios, and more, showcasing the incredible talent within the community.
Getting There and Parking
The festival organizers have made attending convenient for everyone:
- Free shuttle service runs every half hour from Marion City Square plaza parking lot (500 N. Main St.) to the festival site
- Handicap parking is available at Marion's Community Building (191 N Main St)
- Additional shuttle services run from Rose's parking lot to the festival site every half hour
For festival information, visit www.mtngloryfestival.com or call 828-652-2215.
