Named after the Cherokee word for “meadow,” Hiawassee sits on the Georgia and North Carolina border in Towns County. Because of its poor farming conditions, Hiawassee didn’t thrive until after Lake Chatuge was created in 1941. The first annual Georgia Mountain Fair in 1950 marks a changing point in the town’s economy and remains one of the area’s biggest attractions today.
Having a tourism-based economy, Hiawassee is highlighted by the beautiful Lake Chatuge, which boasts gorgeous lake scenery enveloped by the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains. The town is a popular area for summer vacationers, fall tourists, migrating residents and retirees who enjoy boating, fishing, swimming and breathing the fresh mountain air. It even has its own sanded “beach” in the middle of town as well as high-end resorts nearby like The Ridges, The Retreat and Brasstown Valley Resort. When people visit Hiawassee, they can’t help but fall in love with the scenery.
Hotels & Cabins
Restaurants
Shopping
Things To Do
Hiawassee Events
Mountain Country Christmas in Lights
November 28 @ 6:00 pm - December 23 @ 9:00 pm EST at Georgia Mountain FairgroundsTowns County Sheriff’s Office Christmas Parade
November 30 @ 4:00 pm EST at Downtown HiawasseeChristmas Cantata
December 14 @ 7:00 pm EST at Georgia Mountain FairgroundsNew Year Fireworks
December 31 @ 3:00 pm EST at Georgia Mountain FairgroundsA Ridges Experience: Join Us for a Murder Mystery Weekend
January 17, 2025 @ 12:00 am - January 19, 2025 @ 12:00 am EST at The Ridges Resort