Each year, the allure of Roan Mountain continues to grow.

And momentum is looking to keep pace with the annual Rhododendron Festival expected to draw in thousands this weekend at Roan Mountain State Park.

An annual tradition, the festival features several vendors, musicians and other activities for the public while also putting the rhododendron gardens on full focus throughout two-day affair.

Scheduled for June 16-17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, the festival has taken on a new life as far as serving as an attraction for residents and visitors alike. The event is sponsored by the Roan Mountain Citizens Club, an active civic group that offers a variety of projects and fundraisers to give back to the Roan Mountain community.

“Every year, we do our research to make sure we have the right entertainment, vendors and other things that the public will enjoy,” said Brian Tipton, Roan Mountain Citizens Club president. “It’s great to see the enjoyment from everyone. That’s why we do this. This is a way to showcase Carter County and what Roan Mountain has to offer.”

Roan Mountain has blossomed in its own right as a focal point for the country’s initiative to be more geared toward a tourism-based economy. The Rhododendron Festival economic impact is felt each year with thousands flocking to Northeast Tennessee and the outskirts of North Carolina to take in the festivities while visiting the different shops and other restaurants, providing an extra boost in money to the area. For the event, over 130 vendors will be in attendance.

“That’s really our big emphasis. We want to show people what there is in Roan Mountain and Carter County,” he said. “There are different things to do during the festival, but then people are able to go out and visit different businesses, see the different trails, Watauga Lake and other things. One of the best things about this is usually after the festival, we’ll see people come back to the area and say that they’re back because of their experience in Roan Mountain.”

Event goers are reminded that parking is first-come, first-serve. With various entities lending a helping hand, Tipton was quick to thank Roan Mountain State Park for their continual support of the project.

“The park staff does such a great job in maintaining the beauty of the area,” he said. “It all falls back on their staff. They are such an important part of the festival.”

Tipton added that the partnership hasn’t missed a beat this year, as the Club is working alongside new park manager Meg Guy. While new to the position, Guy has served as a park ranger at the site.

“We’ve been lucky to work with some great park managers over the years, and this 2018 hasn’t been any different,” he said. “Meg Guy has been great to work with, and her entire staff.”

Individuals wanting to learn more about the event or the Roan Mountain Citizens Club can either view their website or social media pages online.