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What's happening in Rutherford County, NC?

Annual & Special Events

There's always fun to be had in Rutherford County, NC! From events and festivities to holiday celebrations to fun activities and community improvements, Rutherford County is filled with great opportunities, new and old. Check out some of the oldest festivals in North Carolina, or find out what new things are coming to the area.

2018 Special Events & News 


new waterpark in forest city

New Waterpark in Forest City

event location

Downtown Forest City

event date

August 2018

event time

The Forest City Pavilion on Park Square (POPS) is under construction and will hopefully be opening Augustin 2018, just in time to beat the heat!

new rail trail in forest city

Thermal Belt Rail Trail

event location

Forest City to Gilkey

event date

TBD

event time

This 13.3 mile trail is currently being constructed along an old railroad bed. Upon completion, it will be 12 feet wide, ideal for walking/running or biking, and stretch from Forest City to Gilkey, NC.

world equestrian games

2018 World Equestrian Games

event location

Tryon Equestrian Center

event date

September 2018

event time

Just 10 miles from Rutherfordton, one of the biggest events in the equestrian sport is coming to the Tryon Equestrian Center (TIEC). It's a dont-miss event for all ages and interests.


Annual Events

casino night

Annual Winter RTR Casino Night Fundraiser

event location

Rutherfordton Clubhouse

event date

February

event time

A night of games, door prizes, silent auction, food & cocktails, all for the betterment of Downtown Rutherfordton

arts and crafts festival

MayFest Arts & Crafts Festival

event location

Downtown Rutherfordton

event date

1st Saturday in May

event time

One of the longest-running festivals in NC! Pinewood Derby Race, interactive booths, kids activities, local vendors, dance, martial arts, live music

freedom fest

Freedom Fest

event location

McNair Field

event date

July 4

event time

A quintessential American experience with music, contests, games and prizes, home run derby, baseball game, fireworks

hilltop fall festival

Hilltop Fall Festival

event location

Downtown Rutherfordton

event date

1st Saturday in October

event time

Race for the Gold Soapbox Derby (Friday night), Tour de Pump bike ride, Overmountain Victory Trail 5k, holiday shopping, Scarecrow Contest, live music, food

trick or treating on main street

Trick-or-Treat on Main Street

event location

Main Street Rutherfordton

event date

October 31

event time

Dress up in your most festive Halloween costume and go trick-or-treating at all the local merchants of Downtown

veterans day

Salute to Rutherford County Veterans

event location

TBD

event date

2nd Saturday in November

event time

Pay tribute to those who've served our country with the rest of Rutherfordton.

christmas parade and events

Christmas Parade & Events

event location

Downtown Rutherfordton

event date

1st Saturday in December

event time

Amazing Downtown decorations, Snowman Decorating Contest, marching bands, festive floats, live music, largest tree in NC


Rutherford County is Waiting for You

All the fun of Western North Carolina is waiting! All you have to do is pick up the phone and give us a call... we'd love to connect you with the perfect home for your lifestyle.