Woolly Worm Festival – Banner Elk, NC
October 17 @ 10:00 am - October 18 @ 6:00 pm
$10
The 49th Annual Woolly Worm Festival takes place in Banner Elk, North Carolina, on October 17–18, 2026. This beloved mountain event is famous for its caterpillar races, where the winning worm’s color bands predict the severity of the upcoming winter. Mountain Momma Organics will be participating again this year so come by to stock up on strictly organic healthy and cost-effective pantry foods.
Key Festival Details
- Dates: October 17–18, 2026
- Location: Historic Banner Elk Elementary School (185 Azalea Circle SE, Banner Elk, NC)
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday; 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sunday
- Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6–12, and free for children 5 and under. Proceeds benefit local schools and children’s charities.
What to Expect
- Woolly Worm Races: You can bring your own caterpillar or purchase one on-site. Races run all day in heats of 25, with handlers coaxing their worms up a 3-foot string.
- Official Winter Forecast: The winning worm of Saturday’s grand final becomes the official winter forecasting agent for the region.
- Activities: Enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, and a variety of local food. [1, 2, 3, 4]