<< Back 10/2/02 Grassroots and good times in the fall SMN Seems like fall always comes around with poignant yet positive reminders of why we live in these mountains and simply can’t get enough of the events that embrace its culture. Yeah, some may consider themselves a bit hip and way too cool for these fall celebrations, but the truth is that the old traditions are just plain fun. Just this past weekend Western Carolina University set up the hay bales and invited all of Western North Carolina for its annual celebration of mountain culture. The clouds finally broke just as Mountain Heritage Day was starting, so it was blue skies yet muddy shoes for the thousands who attended. Under one tent was an old-time shaped note choir, beneath another a gathering of traditional guitarists. In the theater Gary Carden’s plays about mountain life were performed, while crafters and artists of all types displayed their wares outdoors. Tens of thousands attended, and the college that has educated so many mountaineers proved once again that it will work hard to make sure it remembers its original mission and sticks to its roots. Across Balsam on the same weekend was the Haywood County Fair. There, it was John Deeres and young farm girls in overalls showing their sheep, cattle and goats. It’s a little nervy watching youngsters lead heifers four times their size around a ring, displaying the kind of confidence and showmanship many full-time entertainers only dream of. There’s much more at a small county fair, including 600-pound pumpkins, a horseshoe tossing contest and that other fall ritual — campaigning politicians. Just over a week ago Macon residents were treated to the same fare as their county fair attracted thousands. Over in Swain they celebrate music each weekend at Darnell Farms. It’s a venue so idyllic and so authentic to these mountains that we won’t spend a lot of time trying to describe it. Let’s just say it’s a simple stage of rough-hewn lumber in the middle of a field, the river nearby and a smattering of other buildings offering freshly cooked country fare. Simply follow the Tuckasegee River as it veers off U.S. 74 at the first Bryson City exit heading west and you’ll come to the farm, campground and show area. There’s also a corn maze if you have the time and inclination. And this is just the beginning. Soon there will be Waynesville’s Church Street Fair, after that Macon’s Leaflookers Gemboree (Oct. 19) and on the same week Haywood’s Apple Festival and the first Church Street Music Festival (Oct. 19 in downtown Waynesville). Amid all these events, of course, there will be the travelers, the hordes flocking to the hills to take in the spectacular foliage. For many of us, October means finding a quiet place away from all these celebrations and crowds. Whatever your pleasure, though, the mountains serve up a full platter every fall.