There is one thing for sure, exploring the North Carolina Mountains is an exciting adventure any time of the year. Still, late August and September is the perfect time to discover the great outdoors in the NC High Country and the ideal time to visit West Jefferson, NC.
When the dog days of summer give way to late August and September, this is the time of year when the Blue Ridge Mountains give us a preview of the coming cool fall temperatures. This weather is perfect for many outdoor activities such as hiking, concerts, and our annual Antiques Fair.
For hiking in and around West Jefferson, Mount Jefferson State Natural Area boasts five hiking trails, including a child-friendly course.
With three overlooks and a picnic shelter at the top, there are many ideal places to enjoy a scenic picnic while taking in the magnificent long-range views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and aerial perspectives of the towns of Jefferson and West Jefferson. Mount Jefferson State Natural Area is also an excellent place for birdwatching and an up-close look at mountain plants and vegetation, as you'll find various native fauna and flora here.
Events Downtown West Jefferson
Downtown West Jefferson's gallery crawls, and concerts are still happening on select weekends and will continue through October. The gallery crawls are always a big hit for visitors and residents of Ashe County. The next Backstreet Park Concert Series will be held on August 27, 2021, featuring Lucky Strikes Trio, and will start at 5:30 pm and continue to 7:00 pm. For more information on these events, and Ashe Civic Center events, visit Ashechamber.com
Ashe County Farmers Market
The Ashe County Farmers Market is located at 108 Backstreet in Downtown West Jefferson, is open every Saturday (rain or shine) from mid-May through October. The market offers locally grown fresh seasonal produce and local beef, chicken, pork, and lamb. From fresh free-range chicken eggs to assorted breads, cakes, pies, and more, the Ashe County Farmers' Market is all about local and farm-to-table goodness. You'll find many unique and handcrafted items such as baskets, pottery, quilts, and more by Ashe County artisans. The market hours are from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturdays through October.
New River Cleanup Fundraiser Event – August 28, 2021
Cost: $15 for adults | $10 for kids 12 and under
The New River Conservancy will sponsor Splash for the Cash on August 28, 2021. The cleanup will begin at Zaloo's Canoes at 10:00 am and end at New River State Park Wagoner Access at 2:00 pm. Participants are encouraged to bring their boat if they have one, but Zaloo's has offered to provide boats for free if you don't have a boat! After the cleanup, everyone will shuttle back to Zaloo's for complimentary lunch, drinks, and door prizes. For more information - newriverconservancy.org
Gallery Crawl September 10, 2021
Sponsored by the Ashe County Arts Council, the next Gallery Crawl in West Jefferson will be on Friday, September 10, 2021, from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm. As a crawler, you will have the opportunity to see the latest artwork from Ashe County's best artists and, in some cases, an opportunity to meet the creative person behind the art. The Gallery Crawl is always a popular event in Ashe County for residents and visitors alike.
While visiting the different galleries and shops, you can also tour our town to see our murals and other outdoor artwork in West Jefferson. When you're ready for a bite to eat or if you want to try a local brew, you'll have several restaurants and local breweries to choose from that offer delicious appetizers, outstanding entrees, and craft beers.
West Jefferson's Antiques Fair – September 17 & 18, 2021
The West Jefferson Antiques Fair will be a two-day event starting Friday, September 17, 2021, through Saturday 18, 2021. There's always an air of excitement each year at the annual Antiques Fair because you never know what treasures you might find. Vendors will have assorted antiques, primitives, collectibles, and even some repurposed items. While you're there, check out our local shops, art galleries, and restaurants that make historic downtown West Jefferson a fantastic place to shop, eat, antique, and find works of art any time of the year.
