Summer is such a wonderful time in Clay County.

June starts out with the Business Expo at the Hayesville Middle School. Everyone has the opportunity to see a sampling of the local businesses. This makes it a perfect opportunity to do everything from planning a new home to finding the perfect outfit to wear on a lazy summer afternoon.

The Mountain Valley Farmer’s Market starts up each June and continues through October, and it is open every Saturday from 8:00am-12:00 noon.

July is probably our busiest month throughout the year. First we have the annual Fourth of July Fireworks at Lake Chatuge. The Clay County Fireworks Committee makes sure that all have a wonderful celebration. Starting at 6:00 pm enjoy live entertainment, concessions and dancing, and the fireworks display will begin around 9:00pm.

The 2nd weekend of July is the annual Festival on the Square sponsored by the Clay County Historical & Arts Council. Each year festivities are kicked off on Friday night with a street dance on the Town Square. Then, Saturday and Sunday, everyone enjoys the handcrafted items on display from artists throughout our community and beyond.

To make the weekend perfect enjoy the Annual Clay County Rodeo on Saturday night. PCA sanctioned, this rodeo is a thrill to watch with your family and friends. Cowboys and Cowgirls from the region and across the country compete in bareback riding, bull riding and barrel racing, just to name a few.

Just over the state border is the Annual Georgia Mountain Fair that is held in late July and early August. Crafters demonstrate their crafts, kids of all ages enjoy the carnival rides and games, and entertainers perform at the Anderson Music Hall. Enjoy well-known musicians, cloggers, a fiddler’s contest, and gospel singing throughout the 10-day event.

In August many of us enjoy the “Lies & Pies Jamboree” on the town square sponsored by the CCCRA. Just like it says, there are a few lies (although some may be true), stories of days gone by, and a friendly pie making competition. The morning is starts out with the annual “Run for the Pie” 5K Run/Walk, along with a pet costume contest. So no matter if you like to exercise, eat or tell stories, there is a lot of fun to be had by all at this event.

Be sure to include a visit to the Clay County Jail Museum while planning your summer. Relics from Clay County’s history are on exhibit throughout the old jail building. Included in these memories is Dr. Killian’s Pioneer Doctor’s office in its entirety. Also on display are artifacts from Spike Buck Indian Mound, clothing from late 1800’s and early 1900’s, and many more historical items depicting the life of the pioneer settlers in Clay County.

Throughout September and all summer long everyone enjoys the concerts at the Folk School, plays at the Peacock Playhouse, and Hot Summer Nights at Goldhagen Studio. You can also enjoy the live Auctions, and many outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, gem mining, camping, boating and fishing.