2026 FESTIVAL ON THE SQUARE

Description

Each summer, on the second weekend in July, the Clay County Historical & Arts Council proudly hosts the Festival on the Square. The celebration begins Friday evening with our traditional Street Dance, followed by two full days of art, music, food, and community on Saturday and Sunday. This long‑standing Hayesville tradition brings together over 80 artists—local and from across the region—showcasing and selling their original, handmade creations. The Festival surrounds the historic Beal Center Courthouse Square, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a beautiful setting for a weekend of arts and entertainment. 

2026 Festival Schedule: Friday, July 10 • Street Dance — 7:00 PM; Saturday, July 11 • Art Festival — 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday, July 12 • Art Festival — 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Thanks to our talented vendors, enthusiastic crowds, dedicated volunteers and staff, generous sponsors, and fantastic entertainment, we continue to bring engaging, educational, and unique arts programming to our community each year. 

Coming Up Next: Join us again this fall at The Old Jail Museum for our September 2026 Silent Auction, featuring donated items from this year’s festival vendors. For more details—or to download the Vendor Application for participation—please visit: clayhistoryartsnc.org/events.