FAQ
Admission for adults is $10.00, for children ages 6-12 it is $5.00, and children 5 and under are free.
The festival is held on October 17th and 18th, 2026, in Banner Elk, North Carolina, at the Historic Banner Elk Elementary School, 185 Azalea Circle.
Ample parking is available, with free parking on a first-come, first-served basis. Overflow parking may be available for a fee charged by non-profit organizations. We are excited to announce our new remote parking program & shuttle service with Lees McRae College – more details to come!
Pets are not allowed at the festival, except for Woolly Worms.
The festival features Woolly Worm races, crafts, food vendors, live entertainment, children’s activities and much more!
Woolly Worm races begin around 10:00 AM with heats consisting of 25 worms. The winning worm on Saturday earns the honor of predicting the High Country’s winter weather and a $1,000 prize. Sunday races are for a $500 prize and prestige!
Worm registration takes place at the festival, and since races are limited, it’s important to register as soon as you arrive.
The Woolly Worm Festival started in 1978 to determine which Woolly Worm would predict the winter weather. It has grown into a beloved tradition with over 20,000 attendees each year.
All proceeds from the festival are given back to the community to support schools, children’s programs, and to promote business and tourism in Avery County.
