Although Covid-19 has postponed or cancelled many Waynesville, NC events, July 2020 is the beginning of new, safer events from a summer drive in movie theater to newly designed car shows. According to the latest Governor’s order, face masks must be work when in public, so please make plans accordingly. Of course, now more than ever, these events are subject to change or cancellation, so please be sure to check with event planners before you go.
Drive In Movies at the Smoky Mountain Cinema
Every weekend, view a different classic movie at the drive in theater set up outside Smoky Mountain Cinema. Moves start at 9:30pm and there is a full concession stand open for purchase. The cost is $15 per car and a different movie is shown each day from Thursday- Friday. Truck beds may not be utilized for viewing per the NC Governor’s order.
Friday, July 3, 2020
Art After Dark – Fourth of July Edition
The first Friday of every month, wander downtown for art demonstrations, food, and music. The galleries remain open late from 6pm-9pm for the event. This will be first Art After Dark event since March and is part of the Downtown Rebound effort for Main Street.
Location: Main Street, Waynesville
Cost: Free to attend
Saturday, July 4, 2020
Although most of the formal festivals have been cancelled for the year, several towns are putting on fireworks displays. The towns generally request that visitors do not congregate in public spaces due to Covid, however some allow for socially distanced outdoor viewing in public spaces. Bryson City and Maggie Valley have both postponed their planned fourth of July festivals to later this year or 2021. Click the links below to learn more about each display:
Stroll Main Street in Downtown Waynesville from 11am-3pm with music, shops, artists, and dining. The annual children’s parade has been cancelled due to Covid.
Location: Main Street, Waynesville
Cost: Free to attend
While the annual fireworks display at Lake Junaluska has been cancelled, there are still family friendly, socially distanced activities and games planned for the fourth including a cornhole tournament, a decorated kayak/canoe/paddleboard contest, and a floating lantern display.
Location: Lake Junaluska, NC
Cost: Most events free to attend
Sunday, July 5, 2020
The annual fourth of July event in Canton will be missing it’s usual concert, but you can still get a second chance at viewing fireworks on Sunday with Canton’s display. Canton requests that you view the fireworks from your vehicle. Public parks will be closed at dusk.
Location: Canton, NC
Cost: Free to attend
Saturday, July 11 – Sunday, July 12, 2020
Maggie Valley Arts and Crafts Show
This regularly scheduled event generally happens three times each summer and fall. It boasts the largest collection of crafters and artisans in Maggie Valley and includes live demonstrations and a variety of crafts from chainsaw art to artisan soaps. Due to Covid restrictions, there will be no food for sale at the fairgrounds.
Location: Maggie Valley Fairgrounds
Cost: Free to attend
Friday, July 17 – Saturday, July 18, 2020
SE Gas and Petroleum Expo and Vintage Show
This expo and show focus on old time gas and oil collectibles including signs, toys, and more. Prizes for the top trucks in the Vintage Show. Due to Covid restrictions, there will be no food for sale at the fairgrounds.
Location: Maggie Valley Fairgrounds
Cost: Free to attend
Saturday, July 18, 2020
Drive in Move: The Princess Bride
Downtown Waynesville’s The Strand Theater is partnering with Lake Logan to for periodic drive in movies. Watch the classic The Princess Bride from the comfort of your car. Concessions will be available for purchase. Movie starts at 7pm.
Location: Lake Logan, NC
Cost: $22 in advance, $25 on site per car
As always, check with the event coordinators to confirm days, times, and cost. Enjoy your Smoky Mountain getaway!
