The mountains are calling—and they’re glittering! The Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the 66th Annual NC Mineral and Gem Festival, happening July 31 through August 3, 2025, in Spruce Pine, North Carolina—the Mineral City of the World.
This beloved event draws world-class gem, mineral, and jewelry dealers from across the country for four unforgettable days of shopping, exploring, and celebrating the natural treasures of our region. From sparkling gemstones and handcrafted jewelry to unique mineral specimens and rare geological finds, the festival has something for every collector, adventurer, and admirer of Earth’s wonders.
But that’s not all… Ready to dig in? This year’s festival also features the crowd-favorite Mine Tours—a rare chance to venture into a real, working mine in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Grab a pick, get your hands dirty, and discover your own gems—and yes, you keep what you find! These tours sell out fast and require a separate ticket and advance reservation, so don’t wait to reserve your spot.
Come a little early and add to your list of exciting events! Join the race from the top of a local quartz mine to our beloved downtown Spruce Pine in the Top to Toe 5K happening Saturday, July 26th. It’s a fun morning in a favorite downhill run/walk event. (Visit WeRunEvents to sign up) And of course, you want to visit the Grassy Creek Outdoor Gem and Mineral Show beginning July 27th and running through August 3rd in Spruce Pine where you’ll find dozens of vendors showcasing their raw minerals, beads and more!
“This festival is more than an event—it’s a celebration of our heritage, our resilience, and our comeback as a community,” said Patti Jensen, Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce. “We invite everyone to experience the beauty of the mountains, the thrill of the find, and the spirit of Spruce Pine as we shine even brighter this year.”
Whether you’re a rockhound, a shopper, an adventurer—or just love a great mountain getaway—the NC Mineral and Gem Festival is the place to be this summer. Come for the crystals, stay for the charm, and support a community that’s rebuilding and rising.
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Festival Info:
📍 Three Peaks Center, 67 Hotel Place, Spruce Pine, NC
📅 July 31 – August 3, 2025
💎 Gem, Jewelry & Mineral Dealers from across the U.S.
⛏️ Real Mine Tours (separate ticket & reservation required)
Tickets, vendor lists, and mine tour reservations available at:
👉 www.ncgemfest.com
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