A summer getaway doesn’t have to break the bank, especially when you spend the 4th of July in Ellijay. This North Georgia town offers everything you want in a summer celebration: a festive small-town parade, live fireworks, outdoor adventures, and a laid-back mountain vibe.
Whether you’re coming for the day or planning a full weekend escape, Ellijay makes it easy to celebrate the holiday without the crowds or high price tag of big-city destinations.
Downtown Ellijay: Small-Town Charm, Big-Time Fun
The heart of the 4th of July celebration happens right in Downtown Ellijay, where you’ll find a full day of small-town charm, great food, and festive fun the whole family can enjoy.
Start your morning with a coffee from Hemlock Bazaar. Formerly known as Ellijay Coffeehouse, this unique spot is more than just a café—it’s also a bookstore, record shop, and an Appalachian-style marketplace offering everything from movies and oddities to handmade goods and local art.
If you’re in the mood for a hearty, homestyle breakfast, head over to The Corner Stone Café. Their menu is packed with comforting favorites like stuffed omelets, fluffy pancakes, fresh-baked biscuits, and Charleston-style grits. After breakfast, take your time exploring the antique shops and boutiques that line the streets of Downtown Ellijay.
When lunchtime rolls around, Ellijay offers no shortage of delicious options. Craving tacos? Walk down South Main Street to La Catrina, where you’ll find authentic Mexican dishes, including their signature carne asada tacos and margaritas. In the mood for comfort food? Try the meatloaf patty melt at Butcher & Bottle, a flavorful twist on a diner classic that pairs perfectly with an Elijah Craig Classic Manhattan, made with rye, bitters, and an aged cherry.
As the day continues, downtown fills with energy. The annual 4th of July Celebration brings the streets to life with festive vendors, patriotic floats, and community spirit. And as evening sets in, find a cozy spot to settle in for the fireworks show—with the mountains as a backdrop, it’s a picture-perfect ending to a fun-filled day.
Make it a Weekend to Remember
With so much happening, there’s no need to rush home. Book a stay at one of Ellijay’s cozy cabins or scenic campgrounds. Wake up to mountain views and enjoy the relaxed pace that makes Ellijay such a special place to visit.
Whether you’re coming for the fireworks, the mountain air, or the river adventures, Ellijay is the perfect place to celebrate Independence Day. Make your lodging reservations early, cabins and rooms fill up fast for the holiday weekend.
Visit PickEllijay.com for help planning your trip, booking a stay, or discovering more things to do in Ellijay.
Adventure Awaits In Ellijay, GA!
We love that you are even closer to visiting Ellijay! With the 2025 Ellijay Visitors Guide, you’ll get the chance to dig a little deeper into what makes Gilmer County the place to visit all year long.
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The post Plan The Perfect 4th of July Weekend in Downtown Ellijay, Georgia appeared first on Gilmer County Chamber.