This year, it will feature gospel music from local favorites including the Barnes Family from Alarka, Brian Burchfield, The Dyer Family Gospels, Turning Home and others at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, May, 24. Then, beginning 10 a.m. on May 25, there will be a firing of the old cannon to open a Memorial Day ceremony, which will be led by local veterans, along with Sons of the Confederacy, Jackson Rangers Camp 1917. The ceremony will include prayer, Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem, Three-Round Volley and performance of Taps.

This year’s Appalachian Heritage Artist and Crafters will include some of the best in the area who will have handmade items available for purchase. There will be an ax-throwing activity this year and other children’s activities. Bluegrass and country music will be on the entertainment stage, as well as clogging and folk music. The popular old-time cross-cut log-sawing contest and sack-racing will be held on Saturday at noon. 

Business sponsorships are needed and vendor spaces are still available. Those interested can call David Gunter at 828.342.4913 or Charlene Hogue at 828.500.1893; visit the Facebook page “Swain County Heritage Festival” or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..