It’s cooler in the mountains
Literally. At an average elevation of over 3,500 feet, Haywood is often up to 10º cooler than nearby destinations. Pack breathable clothing, an umbrella, and enjoy long days in the not-as-hot summer sun.
Western North Carolina by season
Summer ACTIVITIES IN HAYWOOD
More must-do mountain activities
There’s never a dull moment when it comes to summer in Haywood. Fill your days with outdoor activities, summer markets, and downtown events, all capped off with stunning summer sunsets.
Tee up for a a round of golf on one of Haywood’s scenic greens, from a championship course high in the mountains to a par-68 just minutes from town.
With over 12 wild and stocked trout streams fed from the pristine Pigeon River, Haywood invites anglers looking for the catch of a lifetime to cast a line.
Chasing the summer sun
Aug 28 → Nov 27Mill Around TownSet in Haywood's historic mill town, the monthly Mill Around Town event sees downtown Canton come alive with an extended evening of shopping, dining, deals, and entertainment. On the final Friday of each month, "mill" around to the record store, pottery studio, fly fishing shop, cafe, trendy boutique, bookshop, dark-academia flower shop, and more against a backdrop of live music and fun activities. Mill Around Town is free to attend, but supporting local businesses with purchases is encouraged.
Jun 26 → Aug 7Mountain Street DancesSwing, stomp, and spin along with our mountain community at Waynesville’s Mountain Street Dances, a cherished tradition brimming with Haywood hospitality! Dance your way into the 100+ year history of families gathering to watch traditional dance teams, listen to live bluegrass, and cut the rug––or, in this case, the street. There will be three dances this summer, all free events, with performances from local dance teams to kick the evenings off.
Sep 3 → Dec 18Paint & Sip @ Valley Cigar & Wine BarJoin a fun, beginner-friendly paint & sip experience at Valley Cigar & Wine Company! These weeknight painting events are designed for adults 21 and up who want to unwind, get creative, and let go. Each event runs from 6:00–8:00 pm and features step-by-step instruction starting from a blank canvas. Each month features a new painting. No experience is needed — everyone will leave with a finished painting to be proud of. Register at the linked page to reserve your spot!
Sep 11Pickin' in the ParkLiven up your summer with “Pickin’ in the Park," a free family-friendly music event in Canton! For four Fridays this summer, watch as various local talents showcase Haywood's Appalachian heritage through with live music and clogging. Food trucks will be on site to serve up tasty treats. Pack your lawn chair to come out and soak in the sounds of our neck of the woods! This event is free and for all ages.
Jun 5 → Aug 3Threads: Art ExhibitHaywood Handmade Gallery's "Threads" exhibit celebrates the beauty, creativity, and versatility of fiber art. From traditional weaving and embroidery to contemporary works inspired by textiles, this exhibition showcases how fibers, threads, and fabric inspire artistic expression. Each piece highlights texture, pattern, and the intricate craft that transforms simple materials into compelling art. Pictured work is by Julie Bagamary.
Non-stop summer action
Stress is lower at higher elevations
Trade city lights for a field of fireflies when you book a cool mountain sanctuary in Haywood County.
summer IN HAYWOOD COUNTY
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