Art, Apples, and Chalk: Exploring Ellijay and Marietta
This past weekend, my wife and I set out on a mini-adventure, visiting not one, but two art festivals that left us feeling inspired, relaxed, and full of great memories (and wine!). First up was the annual Apple Festival in Ellijay, followed by the “Chalktoberfest” in Marietta.
Ellijay Apple Festival: Where Art Meets Apples
Nestled in the northern part of Georgia, Ellijay is a historic city known for its picturesque mountain views, cold rivers, and the fact that it’s the apple capital of the state. The name itself, “Ellijay,” is Cherokee for “place of green things” or “many waters,” a fitting tribute to its lush surroundings and vibrant rivers. As an Appalachian Trail Community, it's also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of biking, hiking, and of course, apples.
The festival was a huge draw—thousands of people filled the streets and overwhelmed the town with a flood of cars that Ellijay wasn’t quite ready for. We experienced firsthand the challenge of navigating the traffic, but once we made it to the festival grounds, it was worth every slow mile. The main venue was buzzing with excitement, but our favorite part of the day was visiting the smaller, more intimate downtown location. There, we could really take our time. The slower pace and laid-back vibe suited us perfectly, and we especially loved getting to chat with local artists and admire their work up close. And did I mention the wine? We really, really loved the wine. The downtown festival had a plethora of it, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.
With its blend of creativity, local charm, and, of course, apples, we’re already marking our calendars for next year’s festival. And one thing’s for sure—we’ll leave much earlier in the day to avoid the traffic!
“Chalktoberfest” in Marietta: Beer, Art, and Street Murals
On day two after our time in Ellijay, we headed south to Marietta for their annual “Chalktoberfest”. This festival brought together some of the most talented chalk artists from around the country and several from South America, who transformed the streets around Marietta Square into colorful canvases. The murals were stunning, each one an intricate masterpiece created right before our eyes. It’s incredible how much depth and detail artists can bring to life with just chalk and a blank street.
There was a family-friendly feel to the event as well, with a kids’ area where young artists could show off their skills. It was a joy to see future chalk masters in the making. And, of course, no festival is complete without refreshments. One of our favorite spots, Red Hare Brewing and Distillery, was there, serving up some delicious craft beer to accompany the chalk artistry.
Though I didn’t capture many photos to add to my professional portfolio, I did manage to snap a few quick shots with my phone. It was more about soaking in the moment than anything else, and it felt great to simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Overall, it was a weekend filled with art, nature, and great drinks, and I’m already looking forward to our next adventure. Until then, I’ll be reflecting on these incredible experiences—and probably sipping some wine while doing so.
