Dahlonega Gold Rush Days Festival 2025 | Guide & Tips

Introduction

In the heart of North Georgia, where the foothills glow in shades of red, gold, and amber each October, the Dahlonega Gold Rush Days Festival 2025 promises a weekend packed with history, artistry, and small-town charm.

On October 18–19, 2025, thousands will gather in historic downtown Dahlonega to honor the city’s golden heritage. What began as America’s first major gold rush in 1828 has transformed into one of the Southeast’s top fall festivals—recognized by the Southeast Tourism Society as a Top 20 Event.

When & Where

• Dates: Saturday & Sunday, October 18–19, 2025

• Times: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

• Location: Historic Downtown Dahlonega, Georgia

• Admission: Free to attend; individual activities and food vendors priced separately

Quick Tip: Streets close early and parking is limited—arrive before 9 AM or use festival shuttle services.

Festival Highlights

1. 300+ Arts & Crafts Exhibitors

Browse booths filled with handmade jewelry, pottery, quilts, woodwork, and local art. Many vendors are regional artisans, making it the perfect place for early holiday shopping.

2. Saturday Parade

The Gold Rush Days Parade is a crowd favorite, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, equestrian groups, antique cars, and the coronation of the Gold Rush Queen.

3. Live Music & Appalachian Dance

From bluegrass to folk ballads, enjoy performances rooted in the area’s rich musical traditions. Don’t miss the clogging demonstrations—a true Appalachian art form.

4. Gold Panning & Kids’ Activities

Step back in time and try your hand at gold panning. Kids will love the hands-on mining exhibits and old-fashioned games.

5. Local Food & Wine

Savor authentic Southern flavors—BBQ, boiled peanuts, funnel cakes—and sample wines from Dahlonega’s nearby vineyards.

A Look Back: The History Behind the Festival

Long before California made headlines in 1849, Dahlonega was the epicenter of America’s first major gold rush. In 1828, gold was discovered here, sparking a mining boom and leading to the creation of the Dahlonega Branch Mint in 1838. Today, the Dahlonega Gold Museum, located in the 1836 courthouse, offers artifacts and exhibits that tell this story.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

• Book Lodging Early: From rustic cabins to charming B&Bs, accommodations fill quickly for festival weekend.

• Layer Clothing: Mornings can be cool while afternoons warm up—dress in layers for comfort.

• Bring Cash: While many vendors accept cards, cash is quicker for small purchases.

• Explore Beyond the Festival: Visit local wineries, hike scenic trails, or tour the historic gold mines.

Beyond the Square: What to Explore

• Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site – Dive deeper into the gold rush era.

• Consolidated Gold Mine – Take a guided underground tour and pan for gold.

• Wolf Mountain Vineyards – Relax with award-winning wines and mountain views.

• Fall Foliage Drives – The surrounding Appalachian foothills offer some of Georgia’s best autumn colors.

Festival at a Glance

📅 Dates: October 18–19, 2025
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Historic Downtown Dahlonega, GA
🎟 Admission: Free
🌟 Highlights: Arts & crafts, parade, live music, gold panning, local food, and fall foliage

FAQs

When is the Dahlonega Gold Rush Days Festival 2025?
The festival runs October 18–19, 2025, from 9 AM to 5 PM each day.

How much does it cost to attend?
Admission is free. Food, vendor goods, and certain activities may have fees.

Is it family-friendly?
Yes! There are activities for kids, interactive exhibits, and plenty of open space.

Where does it take place?
In and around Dahlonega’s Historic Downtown Square.

Can I be a vendor?
Vendor applications are available through the official Gold Rush Days Festival Committee website.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

The Dahlonega Gold Rush Days Festival isn’t just a weekend of shopping and entertainment—it’s a living tribute to the town’s history and a celebration of community spirit. Whether you’re here for the music, the crafts, the gold panning, or the fall foliage, you’ll leave with golden memories of your own.

Mark your calendars, book your stay, and get ready to strike gold in Dahlonega this October!