Helen became one of Georgia's most popular mountain destinations in the early 1970s, when creative townsfolk decided to transform their ordinary mountain town into an Alpine village. Bavarian-style buildings, cobblestone alleys and lots of gingerbread trim transformed the village into a charming tourist attraction. Today, Helen's town calendar is full of events worth traveling to, including many that are Alpine-inspired.
This German-style Mardi Gras celebration takes place the last night before Lent begins. It's a festival free-for-all, complete with over-the-top costumes, a German-style feast and plenty of raucous behavior. Check with the Helen Chamber of Commerce (706-878-1619) for a specific date and details.
Trout anglers can try their luck in north Georgia's stretch of the Chattahoochee River when they participate in the Annual Trout Tournament. In addition to plenty of prizes for fishermen, there are fishing demonstrations, raffles and activities for kids along the riverbank. The event takes place every spring, usually in late March or early April. The Helen Chamber of Commerce (706-878-1619) can confirm the dates when you're planning your visit.
Sausage lovers will find it difficult to resist this annual event that celebrates the humble sausage. The festival features live music, traditional German maypole dancing and plenty of other activities, but the sausage is the big draw. Sample dozens of different sausages from local restaurants, watch a sausage-stuffing competition or try your luck at a sausage-eating contest. The festival takes place every year in early May. For the exact date, check with the Helen Chamber of Commerce (706-878-1619).
Helen's downtown comes to life with parades, live music and Southern-style barbecue every Fourth of July as people flock to the town for its annual Independence Day celebration. Stick around for the nighttime fireworks show, which includes live music. The Helen Chamber of Commerce (706-878-1619) can provide a schedule of planned events.
Oktoberfest may be Helen's most popular annual event. This festival of all things German runs from mid-September to the end of October. The Helen Chamber of Commerce (706-878-1619) can provide the exact dates. The celebration includes plenty of beer, lederhosen, bratwurst and polka dancing.
