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Banner Elk, North Carolina, will once again host the 47th annual Woolly Worm Festival on the weekend of Oct. 19-20 at the Historic Banner Elk School. The event is organized by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club.

The festival will feature woolly worm races, craft and food vendors, live entertainment, and more. The winner of the woolly worm race will also be entrusted with predicting the winter forecast.

The Woolly Worm Festival is a ticketed event, with proceeds supporting local schools, children’s programs, and promoting businesses and tourism in Avery County. Only woolly worms are allowed as pets at the festival.

Online ticket sales begin Sept. 1, with details available on the festival’s website: woollyworm.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate on the day of the event. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 5-12, and free for children under 5.

Be sure to register your woolly worm early to secure a spot in the race.

Festivities begin Saturday at 9 a.m., with races starting soon thereafter. The festival will feature unique handcrafted items, perfect for holiday gifts, including jewelry, pottery, and furniture.