Events | Cherokee, NC

How will Cherokee affect you?

Make a special event the centerpiece of your vacation in Cherokee.

Events, festivals, fairs, and more abound in Cherokee throughout the spring, summer and fall, all of them as diverse as they are delightful. They’re a great way to have a great time, and often they provide an easy opportunity to absorb some intriguing Cherokee culture through dance, food, craftmaking, and more. But some Cherokee events are simply a fun way to spend time with your friends and family. Take a quick tour of the event lineup below, pick a few, and add them to your itinerary.

2024 Cherokee Retreat

Tuesday, March 12 to Sunday, March 17

An Introduction to the History & Culture of the Cherokee People

A Journey Towards Allyship and Uncolonization

For five days, participants will attend presentations by Cherokee tribal members on a variety of topics centered around Cherokee culture and history with the goal of moving towards uncolonization and allyship.

The legends, language, sense of place, history and food will slowly reveal the depth of Cherokee culture and spirituality and offer participants a background to reflect on their own expressions and connections to the Divine. Times of reflection will integrate the day's learning with the participant's own life experiences and spiritual growth without conflating them.


Community Easter Event

Monday, March 25 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Join the EBCI community as we come together at the annual Community Easter Event. Hosted at the historic Old High School site, the event promises an evening filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of Easter cheer!

The highlight of the evening will be the much-loved Easter Egg Hunt, with participants divided into four age groups to ensure everyone has a fair chance at finding those elusive eggs. Starting promptly at 6:00pm, the hunt will kick off with Group 1 (ages 0-3) and continue with subsequent groups until 8:00pm.

In addition to the Egg Hunt, there will be an array of entertainment and activities to keep attendees engaged throughout the evening. From bouncy houses to field day events sponsored by EBCI Tribal Option, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Participants can also capture memorable moments at the selfie stations strategically placed around the venue.

To enhance the event experience and reduce waiting times, organizers are providing the option for early wristband pickup at the Cherokee Welcome Center. Starting Monday, March 18 through Friday, March 22, between 8:00am and 5:00pm, attendees can obtain their wristbands ahead of time. This allows for smoother entry into the festivities on the event day.


Rainbows & Ramps

Saturday, March 30 from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm

Join the local Cherokee people as they celebrate two local favorites, rainbow trout and ramps

At this community festival, savor a "taste of Cherokee" plate with fresh ramps, locally caught trout, potatoes, slaw and cornbread, dessert, and drink!

Bring your whole family and enjoy some good bluegrass music from the Wiregrass band, great clogging from the famous J. Creek Cloggers who were featured on the Emmy Awards Show in 2022 and get a chance to win some great door prizes.


Fire Mountain Inferno

Saturday, May 4 from 7:30 am to Sunday, May 5 at 3:30 pm

Join us for 2 days of adrenaline-pumping action at the 2024 Fire Mountain Inferno mountain bike event!

Welcome to the Fire Mountain Inferno mountain bike event in Cherokee, North Carolina, recognized as the Best Mountain Bike Race in the annual Best of the Blue Ridge survey by Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine.   

Scheduled to take place from May 4th to May 5th, 2024, the Fire Mountain Inferno is poised to captivate riders and spectators alike with its breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain. Organized by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, this year's event will feature riders of all skill levels.

Divided into four categories – expert, sport, beginner, and junior – participants will tackle a variety of challenges, from thrilling descents to grueling cross-country routes, as they navigate the renowned Fire Mountain Trails. With the full support of the Eastern Band, attendees can anticipate an unparalleled experience celebrating the rich heritage and natural wonders of Cherokee.


7 Clans Rodeo

Saturday, August 31 to Sunday, September 1


Cherokee Indian Fair

Tuesday, October 1 to Saturday, October 5


Cherokee Fall Rod Run

Friday, October 11 to Saturday, October 12


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