In mid-October, when the leaves are at their peak with vibrant hues of orange, gold, and red, the Highlands community comes together to celebrate the culture and heritage that has shaped our small mountain town for generations. The Highlands Heritage Jamboree is an event that pays tribute to the traditions many Highlanders hold dear—traditions that have been passed down and celebrated over the decades.
In years gone by, locals and visitors alike would gather at Helen's Barn, a once very popular spot, to enjoy lively bluegrass music and clogging. This year, on October 12, we continue to honor that beloved tradition with the Highlands Heritage Jamboree, a festive celebration held at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park from 3:30 to 7:30pm.
The Jamboree kicks off with the sounds of Highlands' own bagpiper, Margaret Tooke, who will set the tone for an afternoon filled with heritage. As the music plays, you can indulge in some of the best barbecue Highlands has to offer, courtesy of Highlands Smokehouse. The barbecue is free, but it's popular, so be sure to arrive early to savor this delicious Southern fare.
No celebration of Highlands' heritage would be complete without a nod to the region's moonshining history. At the Jamboree, you'll have the chance to sample some authentic moonshine and even get a close-up look at an old moonshine still, thanks to the Highlands Historical Society.
After filling up on barbecue and moonshine, settle in for a performance by the Bailey Mountain Cloggers from Mars Hill University. Their energetic clogging will transport you back to the days of Helen's Barn, when dancing was a highlight of Highlands evenings. Following the clogging, the bluegrass band Nu-Blu will take the stage, filling the park with the toe-tapping sounds that have long been a part of Highlands' musical tradition.
The Highlands Heritage Jamboree is a celebration of the town's rich cultural tapestry, a chance to reconnect with old traditions, and an opportunity to create new memories in the heart of the mountains. So, mark your calendar for October 12, and join us at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park for an afternoon of music, dance, and heritage.
