Festivals & Events
Martin Luther King Day Celebration
Each Saturday in February, Washington-Wilkes celebrates Martin Luther King Jr.'s work to end racial segregation and racial discrimination.
Battle of Kettle Creek Anniversary
February 8-10, 2013
On the second weekend of February each year, patriotic and historical organizations from throughout the nation join with descendants of participants and the public, to celebrate the anniversary of the Revolutionary War Battle of Kettle Creek. "We have been to tons of historical sites, lots of events and reenactments. This was without a doubt the most family/child friendly, educational, and well organized event we have ever attended!" - Pam Sutton, Jones Creek, GA
Sponsored by the Georgia Society and Samuel Elbert chapter, Sons of the American Revolution.
Spring Tour of Homes
April 5 & 6, 2013
Features several private homes open only for this tour. Also features many churches, public buildings, museums, and other sites. Sponsored by the Women's Club, the Kiwanis Club, and the Washington-Wilkes Chamber of Commerce.
The Toombs House Living History Program
April 6, 2013
Always the weekend before the Masters Golf Tournament, the living history program focuses on an actual "spring event" in Toombs' life. Research and resources are documented.
Cruise-In on the Square Antique Car Show
May 11, 2013
Held the second Saturday in May. Antique cars and trucks cruise in to be displayed on the square. Open to the public. Sponsored by Memory Lane Cruisers.
The Toombs House Living History Program
June 29, 2013
Visitors become a part of an historic event brought to life by the living history performers, "Robert Toombs Family and Friends." Documented programming information from biographies, letters, and other historical information.
4th of July on the Square
July 3, 2013
Kick off your summer with some fun and games for the whole family.
Cruise-In on the Square Antique Car Show
September 14, 2013
Held the second Saturday in September. Antique cars and trucks cruise in to be displayed on the square. Open to the public. Sponsored by Memory Lane Cruisers.
Mule Day Southern Heritage Festival
October 12, 2013
Held the second Saturday in October. A celebration of plantation life in the Old South with mule contests, primitive demonstrations, food, an arts & crafts show, and fun for the whole family. Held at Callaway Plantation. Sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. More...
Washington-Wilkes Festival of Music & Art
The Washington-Wilkes Arts Foundation presents an unforgettable weekend celebrating original art in media ranging from photography to painting, ceramics to sculpture. The arts festival is free to the public and includes arts & crafts for children.
I'd Rather Be In Tignall - Fall Festival
November 2, 2013
Each year on the first Saturday of November the town of Tignall and the North Wilkes Steering Committee host a Fall Festival aimed at promoting their community and their families. This family affair has lots of Food, Fun, Arts & Crafts and Live Music. Held from 10:00am-4:00pm. at the old Tignall School grounds located on Independence St. Contact Gloria Ware 706-285-2058 or Carolyn Gammon 706-285-2736.
Snowing on the Square
Held each December on the Downtown Square. Many shops and restaurants will stay open for visitors and citizens to enjoy last minute shopping. Holiday music also fills the air, making this free event complete for everyone in the family! Stay tuned for the announcement of dates for 2013. More...
Candlelight Shopping Holiday Open House
November 19, 2013
6-9 pm in downtown Washington!
Held the Tuesday before Thanksgiving in November. Downtown comes alive with luminaries, special evening shopping hours and sales, free refreshments, and entertainment. Sponsored by the Downtown Merchants.
Christmas Dinner & Holiday Tour
December 13 & 14, 2013
Held the second Saturday in December. Features a number of private homes open only for this tour. This wonderful holiday dinner and tour will be the highlight of your Christmas season. Sponsored by the Washington-Wilkes Historical Foundation.
Christmas at Callaway Plantation
December 14, 2013
Held the second Saturday in December. Come enjoy a plantation Christmas the way the first settlers of Wilkes County experienced it.
The Toombs House Living History Program
December 14, 2013
On the second Saturday in December the Toombs House living history program focuses on an actual Christmas event in Toombs life found in biographies, letters, and other written information.


