Carolina Mountains Literary Festival

Overview

The Carolina Mountains Literary Festival is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating literary heritage in the mountains of Western North Carolina. The festival, held in Burnsville, serves as an inclusive platform for readers, writers, and the local community to engage with literature and foster cultural appreciation.

History

The festival originated from informal discussions among author friends, including John Ehle, Charles Price, and others, who met at the Nu Wray Inn in Burnsville. Inspired by these conversations, they organized the first Carolina Mountains Literary Festival in 2007 to bring more people into these literary discussions[2].

Activities and Events

The festival typically spans three days and includes a variety of events such as:

• Author Sessions: Over 50 free sessions with authors covering diverse genres, held at venues like the Town Center, Town Hall, Plott Hound Books, and local churches.
• Workshops: Paid workshops focusing on fiction, non-fiction, memoir, and poetry are available for a modest fee, usually held at the Yancey County Public Library.
• Keynote Event: A highlight of the festival featuring prominent authors in a conversation or keynote address, for which registration is typically required.
• Cultural Performances: Free cultural events, such as the Cornbread and Tortillas performance, which celebrate the cultural heritage of the region[1][3].
• Community Engagement: Activities for young children and their families are also part of the festival's offerings, aiming to inspire a love for reading among all ages[1][2].

Theme and Focus

Each year, the festival adopts a specific theme that underscores community engagement and the sharing of literary experiences. The 2024 festival, for example, focused on the theme "Joining Voices," emphasizing the importance of community-building through shared conversations about literature[1].

Impact

The festival has a positive impact on the local economy by attracting visitors from surrounding regions, encouraging them to explore local shops, artist studios, hiking trails, and natural attractions. It collaborates with local organizations to promote cultural tourism and enrich the community's cultural landscape[2].

Mission and Significance

The Carolina Mountains Literary Festival aims to make culture and literature accessible to everyone, believing that these elements are essential for fostering critical thinking and academic success. By celebrating regional literary talent and engaging diverse audiences, the festival contributes to the vibrant cultural and intellectual life of Western North Carolina[2].