Every once in awhile, RVers stumble upon a small-town festival that ends up being a highlight of their trip. Many, maybe most, are held in scenic small towns with camping nearby, and sometimes right at the festival grounds. Here are a few that are underway now.
1. Harbor Beach Maritime Festival
Harbor Beach, Michigan
July 8–12
One of Michigan’s friendliest waterfront festivals features cardboard boat races, lighthouse tours, a classic car show, beach games, frog-jumping contests, live music and one of the Great Lakes’ nicest small harbors. It’s a relaxing stop along Lake Huron’s scenic shoreline. Harbor Beach City Campground is within minutes of downtown, with additional private campgrounds nearby. Information.
2. Christmas in July Festival
West Jefferson, North Carolina
July 17–18
Who says Christmas has to wait until December? This mountain town celebrates with Christmas crafts, holiday music, food vendors, handmade gifts and visits from Santa—all while temperatures are pleasant enough for shorts and sandals. The festival showcases the artisan culture of North Carolina’s High Country and draws visitors from across the Southeast. Excellent camping options are available nearby, including campgrounds along the New River and in the Blue Ridge Mountains, many within 20 minutes of downtown. Information.
3. Branch Mountain Bluegrass Festival
Moorefield, West Virginia
July 15–18
Bluegrass lovers gather for four days of nationally known performers, campground jam sessions, mountain scenery and friendly neighbors. Even if bluegrass isn’t your favorite music, the atmosphere is worth experiencing. RV camping is available on the festival grounds, with some hookups available. Information.
4. Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands
Asheville, North Carolina
July 16–19
Watch master blacksmiths, potters, woodworkers, basket makers and weavers demonstrate centuries-old skills. This is one of America’s premier traditional craft fairs. Several excellent campgrounds surround Asheville, and the Blue Ridge Parkway is only minutes away. Information.
5. Bear Lake Days
Bear Lake, Michigan
Through July 12
Horse pulls, fishing contests, pig roast, fireworks, car show, community parade, foam parties and old-fashioned games give this festival a genuine Norman Rockwell feel. Bear Lake Campground and nearby state forest campgrounds offer easy access. Information.
6. Auburn Cornfest
Auburn, Michigan
Through July 12
Fresh sweet corn, carnival rides, fireworks, live music, fishing tournament and one of Michigan’s best small-town parades. Bay City State Park is about 20 minutes away, with several private RV parks nearby. Information.
7. Darrington Bluegrass Festival
Darrington, Washington
July 17–19
Nestled beneath the stunning North Cascades, this long-running festival is famous for its informal campground jam sessions that continue well after the stage performances end. RV camping is one of its biggest attractions. Thousands camp on-site, while nearby national forest campgrounds provide quieter alternatives. Information.
8. Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance
Trumansburg, New York
July 16–19
Held in a charming Finger Lakes village, this festival mixes Americana, bluegrass, Cajun, folk, zydeco, world music and dance with artisan vendors and a relaxed atmosphere. It has earned a loyal following among RVers who return year after year. One of the festival’s biggest attractions is camping at the fairgrounds, with dedicated RV spaces available. Additional campgrounds surround nearby Cayuga Lake. Information.
9. Maggie Valley Arts & Crafts Show
Maggie Valley, North Carolina
July 11–12
Located in one of the Smokies’ favorite RV destinations, this event features Appalachian crafts, handmade furniture, jewelry, mountain foods and live entertainment. Maggie Valley is surrounded by dozens of RV parks, many within walking distance or a short drive. Festival also runs on September 5-6 and October 17-18. Information.
10. Celebrate Reed City
Reed City, Michigan
July 16–19
A classic hometown celebration with a car show, fun run, yard sales, family games, food vendors and live entertainment. It’s exactly the kind of event where visitors quickly feel like locals. RV camping: Several campgrounds are located around Reed City and nearby state recreation areas. Information.
If you know of an upcoming festival or special event that you think we should feature, please send the basic information to editor@rvtravel.com.
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