09/05/2026
Beginning October 6th in the Smoky Mountain town of Cherokee, North Carolina…the annual Cherokee Indian Fair gets underway, bringing five days of Cherokee culture, competition, food, music, and classic fair fun to the Old Acquoni Expo Center. First held in 1914, the fair has long been one of the biggest community gatherings on the Qualla Boundary. Visitors can watch the fast, physical game of Cherokee stickball, along with traditional dancing and other contests that have been part of fair week for generations. Inside the exhibits, look for award-winning Cherokee work such as baskets, pottery, masks, woodcarving, finger weaving, and other handmade pieces, plus agricultural entries and community displays. Around the grounds, food vendors and carnival attractions add the feel of a fall fair, while pageants, youth activities, and special community events fill the week. The 2026 fair runs October 6–10 at 1501 Acquoni Road, with country singer Dylan Scott headlining Saturday’s entertainment. Saturday general admission is $20 and includes the concert. With the Smoky Mountains surrounding Cherokee, it’s a lively way to experience both a traditional fair and the living culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians up close.
