Festivals | Maria Sims Group Blog

Wednesday, June 11, 2025 / by Maria Sims

Explore Downtown Canton: Shopping, Dining & Can’t-Miss Events

Downtown Canton, GA, is more than just a city center—it's the heart of Cherokee County, where historic Southern charm meets vibrant community living. With a walkable downtown, charming architecture, and a full calendar of events, it’s no wonder so many people are falling in love with Canton. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, Downtown Canton has something special for everyone.

Unique Shopping
Downtown Canton offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that blends vintage charm with modern style. Explore:
The Cotton Mill Exchange at The Mill on Etowah features over 150 artisans in repurposed historic mill buildings
Explore quaint shops along Main Street, including Downtown Kitchen and Downtown Fringe Salon.
· Antique Shops & Artisan Markets: Hidden treasures and handcrafted goods abound throughout downtown, perfect for home decorators and treasure hunters.

Delicious Dining
Downtown Can ...

georgia, local, canton, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, north georgia, entertainment, kids, restaurants, budget, festivals, nightlife, parks

Tuesday, June 3, 2025 / by Maria Sims

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

There’s something magical about the first Friday of every month in Downtown Canton, GA—the streets come alive with music, food, shopping, and a vibrant community spirit. First Fridays is a beloved tradition that brings locals and visitors together for an evening of fun, entertainment, and small-town charm.

What Is First Friday?

Inspired by the Explore Canton GA event page (see here), First Friday is a free, family-friendly event held on the first Friday of each month from 6 PM to 9 PM (hours may vary seasonally). Downtown Canton transforms into a lively hub with:
1. Live music from local bands and performers
2. Food trucks & restaurant specials (perfect for dinner out!)
3. Local vendors & artisans selling handmade goods
4. Kid-friendly activities like face painting and games
5. Special themes (seasonal events, holiday celebrations, and more)
Why You Should Go
Support Local B. ...

georgia, local, canton, home, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, woodstock, north georgia, entertainment, jasper, kids, blue ridge, ellijay, renovations, restaurants, fall, ball ground, buying, decor, homeownership, staging, festivals, upgrades, budget, farmers markets, home ownership, nightlife, parks, pros and cons, selling, brunch, pool, porch decor, recipes, tiny homes, waleska

Thursday, May 29, 2025 / by Maria Sims

Visit these North Georgia Farmers Markets for Local Produce

In Georgia, as Summer begins to heat up, the local farmers markets and produce stands will be full of fresh produce from local farms and gardens. Living in North Georgia offers residents the opportunity to own property where they can grow fresh produce, and local markets are available to those who would like to purchase locally sourced items.

Blue Ridge
Downtown Market Blue Ridge
Every Saturday June - November 9:00am - 1:00pm
787 Summit Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513
This market located in Downtown Blue Ridge is a community maker's market for artists, crafters, and hobby farmers. Produce varies by week. For current vendors, weather related updates and other information, visit their Facebook page.
North Georgia Farmers Market
Every Saturday April - December 9:00am - 12:00pm
Located at 83 Dunbarton Farm Rd in Blue Ridge
This market located in Blue Ridge offers locally grown mushrooms and other fresh produce, eggs, handcrafted gifts, and more. For more information on this market,. ...

georgia, local, canton, seasonal, events, summer, outdoor, food, woodstock, north georgia, entertainment, jasper, blue ridge, ellijay, festivals, farmers markets

Thursday, May 15, 2025 / by Maria Sims

River Rock Concert and Festival Returns!

Summer 2025 is heating UP in Canton, Georgia, with the very anticipated return of the River Rock Concert & Festival, a beloved series of community concerts held at Etowah River Park. This annual event, now a local tradition, brings together music lovers, families, and visitors from across North Georgia for a unique celebration. The festival hosts an incredible lineup of artists spanning genres like rock, country, and pop, making sure there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Offering live music, food, and fun, this is an event you DON'T want to miss!
Set across four summer weekends, the 2025 series kicks off THIS WEEKEND May 17 with high-energy 80s tribute band Electric Avenue. This is followed by country favorite Sammy Kershaw on June 21, regional rock legends Shyanne on July 19, and wraps up with country music star Mark Chesnutt on August 23. Each concert date also includes opening acts and local performers, making it a full evening of entertainment. the River Ro ...

georgia, local, canton, events, summer, outdoor, entertainment, festivals, nightlife

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 / by Maria Sims

Celebrate Fall Y'all: Apple Picking and Pumpkin Patch Fun in North Georgia

Hey y'all! Fall has finally graced us with its sweet presence, and there's no better way to soak up this glorious season than with some good old-fashioned apple picking and pumpkin patch adventures. North Georgia is famous for its stunning fall foliage and charming farms. Here's your guide to the best apple and pumpkin spots that'll have you feeling all the fall vibes!
Apple Picking Adventures
Nothing tastes better than a crisp, juicy apple picked fresh off the tree. North Georgia’s apple orchards are the perfect places to make some sweet memories with family and friends. From sipping fresh cider to munching on apple fritters, you’ll be in autumn heaven!
Mercier Orchards, Blue Ridge: Mercier Orchards has been serving up apple goodness since 1943. Their U-pick events are a must-do, with a wide variety of apples to choose from like Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Pink Lady. Don’t forget to swing by the market for their famous fried pies and fresh-pressed cider. It's so good!
. ...

georgia, local, outdoor, seasonal, events, kids, blue ridge, ellijay, fall, festivals

Festivals | Maria Sims Group Blog

Explore Downtown Canton: Shopping, Dining & Can’t-Miss Events

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

Visit these North Georgia Farmers Markets for Local Produce

River Rock Concert and Festival Returns!

Celebrate Fall Y'all: Apple Picking and Pumpkin Patch Fun in North Georgia

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Festivals | Maria Sims Group Blog

Explore Downtown Canton: Shopping, Dining & Can’t-Miss Events

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

Visit these North Georgia Farmers Markets for Local Produce

River Rock Concert and Festival Returns!

Celebrate Fall Y'all: Apple Picking and Pumpkin Patch Fun in North Georgia

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Popular Tags

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