Travel Guide to the Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk, NC

By Jason Barnette

Travel Guide

“On your mark. Get set. Go!” It was fascinating watching thousands of people cheer as furry woolly worms slowly climbed a taut string on a stage. But that’s what the annual Woolly Worm Festival is all about.

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When is the Woolly Worm Festival in 2023?

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The 46th Annual Woolly Worm Festival will take place on October 21-22, 2023 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday.

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The Woolly Worm Race

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Anyone can enter the woolly worm race. You just have to find your champion racer.

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Then, you gently set the woolly worm at the starting line on the string.

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The first woolly worm to reach the top of the string wins.

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The only human interaction allowed is blowing air through a straw.

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It's just a woolly worm race, but the winners go wild in celebration.

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Juried Craft Vendors

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Juried craft vendors are part of the festival, selling their genuine handcrafted artwork.

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Food at the Woolly Worm Festival

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The "secret" ingredient of festival food is grease.

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But everyone loves it.

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And there is PLENTY of food for all festival goers.

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Parking at the Woolly Worm Festival

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Parking lots around the small town are run by non-profits during the festival. They typically charge about $10 cash for all-day parking.

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Learn about the history of the festival, see some tips to make the most of your trip, and find out where you can stay.