Mountain Heritage Day

Mountain Heritage Day in Cullowhee: Celebrating Tradition, Culture, and Community

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Cullowhee, North Carolina, comes alive every year with the vibrant and rich celebration known as Mountain Heritage Day. This annual event, held on the last Saturday in September on the campus of Western Carolina University, serves as a tribute to the region's unique culture, traditions, and the tight-knit community that thrives within it. With its roots deeply embedded in the history of the Appalachian region, Mountain Heritage Day in Cullowhee is a day of celebration, education, and connection.

Mountain Heritage Day traces its origins back to 1974 when Western Carolina University (WCU) first organized this event. Located in Cullowhee, WCU is deeply intertwined with the local culture and community. The university plays a pivotal role in preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, making it the perfect host for this annual celebration.

The idea behind Mountain Heritage Day was simple yet profound: create a platform where locals and visitors alike could come together to appreciate and showcase the history, traditions, and talents that make this region so unique. Over the years, this event has grown in both size and significance, drawing thousands of people from all over the region to partake in the festivities.

At its core, Mountain Heritage Day is a celebration of tradition. The event highlights various aspects of Appalachian culture, from traditional music and dance to crafts and artisanal demonstrations. Bluegrass and old-time music fill the air as local bands and performers take the stage to pay homage to the musical heritage of the region. Clogging and square dancing performances bring the dance traditions of the mountains to life, inviting spectators to join in the lively, rhythmic fun.

One of the most beloved aspects of Mountain Heritage Day is the Craft Fair, where skilled artisans display their handmade wares. From intricate quilts and pottery to hand-woven baskets and wooden furniture, the craftsmanship on display is a testament to the enduring tradition of creating practical, beautiful objects from local materials.

Food is an integral part of any cultural celebration, and Mountain Heritage Day is no exception. Attendees can indulge in an array of traditional Appalachian dishes, ranging from mouth watering barbecue to cornbread and beans. The aroma of smoked meats and homemade pies wafts through the air, evoking memories of family gatherings and Sunday suppers. These culinary delights are a reminder of the simple yet deeply satisfying pleasures of mountain living.

For those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth, the dessert options are equally tempting. Homemade apple butter, fried apple pies, and cobblers showcase the region's love affair with apples, a fruit that has been cultivated in the mountains for centuries. These treats are not only delicious but also a nod to the agricultural heritage of the area.

While Mountain Heritage Day is a celebration of tradition, it is also an educational experience. Visitors can explore exhibits and demonstrations that delve into the history and culture of the Appalachian region. These displays cover a wide range of topics, from the history of moonshining to the art of storytelling.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Mountain Heritage Day is the sense of community it fosters. It's a day when neighbors and strangers alike come together to celebrate their shared heritage. Families gather on the grassy fields, friends reconnect over a plate of barbecue, and newcomers are warmly welcomed into the fold.

For the residents of Cullowhee, this event is an opportunity to showcase their hometown and its unique character. It's a chance to highlight the sense of pride they feel for their community and its contributions to the larger cultural tapestry of the Appalachian region.

With over 110 arts and crafts vendors, there’s something for everyone from Combat Veteran Woodworking, Smoky Mountain Honey to Mudpuppies Pottery.  And of course don’t forget about the 25 food vendors offering barbeque, boiled peanuts, pork rinds, old fashioned churned ice cream, and frybread to name a few.

The ability for homeowners in the Triangle area to make a weekend trip to the mountains is just one of the many reasons so many are relocating to our area.