Family events in Boone, NC

Explore the mountain after hours with personal guides during the Grandfather by Night series. Discover nighttime wonders and, weather permitting, watch a sunset before setting out. The Twilight Hike continues after dusk to discuss and look for creatures that are more active after the sun goes down. The group will explore a unique forest ecosystem from top to bottom in search of salamanders, owls, flying squirrels, fireflies, and any other wildlife that appears. This program is not accessible to guests with limited mobility. All participants in this version must take part in the hike, since staying behind while the group hikes is not possible. Advance registration is required.

Choose dine-in or to-go for a hearty country breakfast at the park. The menu includes homemade biscuits with gravy and jams, grits, eggs, ham, sausage, bacon, pan-fried potatoes, stewed apples, pancakes, coffee, and orange juice. A $12 donation per person is requested, payable by cash or Venmo. All donations benefit the community park, and offerings may change based on availability.

Held at Watauga High School, this festival supports Watauga County families who are facing the high cost of preparing for a new school year. Supplies will be distributed, including backpacks, shoes, pencils, notebooks, crayons, erasers, highlighters, earbuds, and headphones, so students can begin the year prepared and confident. Supplies can be picked up during school-specific time slots, with slots designated for Green Valley, Bethel, Parkway, Valle Crucis, Mabel, Blowing Rock, Two Rivers, Hardin Park, Cove Creek, and homeschoolers. High school students should attend during their school district's assigned slot. Homeschoolers must be enrolled in an active registered homeschool in Watauga County. Haircuts are not being offered this year. Students need to be at the festival in person to receive shoes. Information about sponsoring, volunteering, or hosting a booth is available on the festival website.

Throughout the day, nature activities are offered for children ages 5 to 12, and participants of all ages are welcome. Around the Wilson Center, visitors can meet some critters up close. These activities are covered by admission.

Second Saturdays at Shoppes on the Parkway brings a welcoming mix of local flavor and mountain-town character. Expect a marketplace of small business vendors, refreshments like Larlin’s Lemonade and Haulin Treats, the All Mixed Up mobile drink trailer, permanent jewelry sessions with Mountain Muse Boutique, live music from the Andy Ferrell Duo, and a free coloring station to spark creativity. Supported by sponsors Leafguard, Renewal by Anderson, Passantes, Leaf Filter, and The Pet’s Table, this series highlights community connection in a friendly setting.

This greenhouse event features plant-themed bingo with unlimited games and a prize for every win. The entry fee is $15 and includes an indoor plant to take home. Space is limited to 20 participants. Expect a relaxed evening centered on bingo, greenery, and the chance to head home with a new plant and possibly an extra prize.