About Macon County Fair

The Macon County Fair in Franklin celebrates the gem mining and mountain farming heritage of North Carolina's southwesternmost mainland county — Franklin is the "Gem Capital of the World," with ruby, sapphire, garnet, and rhodolite deposits that attract gem hunters from across the country, while the county's farming communities maintain their agricultural fair traditions in the Little Tennessee River valley.

What to Expect

Expect livestock shows, 4-H competitions, gem and mineral exhibits, mountain crafts, local food vendors, and a fair celebrating the unique dual heritage of agriculture and gemstone mining that defines Macon County.

Visitor Tips

Franklin's gem mines offer public digging for rubies, sapphires, and garnets — an activity unique to the southern Appalachians. The Scottish Tartans Museum reflects the region's Scottish Highland heritage, and the Cullasaja Gorge on US-64 is one of the most scenic drives in the mountains.

Places to Stay Nearby

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