It's that time of year again! Pumpkin-flavored this and that, brilliant fall foliage and crisp mountain air can mean only one thing: It's time for the 43rd Annual Mountain Glory Festival! Join the festivities on Main Street in Marion on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A cherished fall tradition in McDowell County, the one-day festival brings live music, family activities, arts and crafts, and plenty of autumn fun to downtown Marion.
Music, Family Fun and Festival Favorites
Enjoy live performances on the City Stage, including the Das Oompapas at 2 p.m. for a little Oktoberfest flavor.
On the courthouse lawn, the Family Stage will feature local music, children's dance performances and the Best Dressed Pet Contest. Kids can also enjoy face painting, balloon art, a fishing booth and more at Kid's Korner.
Don't miss the downtown car show or the Mountain Glory Quilt Show at the McDowell Arts Council (50 S. Main St.).
Shop, Stroll and Celebrate
More than 150 vendors will line the streets of downtown Marion, offering arts and crafts, seasonal gifts and festival food. Explore local shops and restaurants while you're there, and perhaps get an early start on your holiday shopping.
Bring the family, gather some friends and spend a fall day celebrating in the Blue Ridge Mountains of McDowell County.
Plan Your Visit
43rd Annual Mountain Glory Festival Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Main Street, Marion, NC
Free shuttle service: Shuttles will run every 30 minutes from the Marion City Square plaza parking lot (500 N. Main St.) to the festival.
Accessible parking: Available at Marion's Community Building (191 N. Main St.).
For more information, visit Mountain Glory Festival or call 828-652-2215.
Make a Weekend of It
Why not stay a little longer? Turn your festival visit into a fall getaway and explore places to stay in McDowell County , from cozy cabins to mountain inns.
