Haywood County will mark the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene this week with a series of commemorations beginning during the opening ceremonies of the annual Haywood County Fair.
At 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 25, a proclamation will be read at the Smoky Mountain Event Center in Waynesville, and attendees will have the chance to recognize first responders, volunteers and partner organizations that have played a role in recovery. Throughout the weekend, the sheriff’s office, emergency services and development services will maintain booths at the fair, offering information on recovery resources and ongoing efforts tied to Helene.
The observances will culminate in a remembrance ceremony at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, on the steps of the historic Haywood County Courthouse in Waynesville — almost exactly one year to the hour during which the catastrophic storm thrashed the region. Officials say the gathering will provide a solemn moment to honor the lives lost, reflect on the community’s resilience and acknowledge the progress still to be made.