Calendar - The Orchard at Altapass

THE MONTH OF MAY

Friday, May 1

ORCHARD OPENS FOR THE SEASON! Open Mon, Wed-Sat: 10-6; Sun: 12-6; Closed Tuesdays. During apple harvest mid-Sept through October The Orchard will be open 7 days/week, 10-6. All events are free to the public, unless fees are noted.

Saturday, May 2

1:00-2:00 Lynda Davis accompanies her lively country vocals with piano expertise.

2:30-4:30 Bluegrass Mix keeps our cloggers busy on the dance floor. Join in.

Sunday, May 3

1:00-2:00 Tom Sparks kicks off the season with great gospel and country tunes.

2:30-4:30 Surefire comes recommended as one of the finest bluegrass groups in the mountains.

Wednesday, May 6

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks pick and sing informally to the delight of our visitors.

Thursday, May 7

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney hosts a new series each Thursday at The Orchard named "Remembering the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." His opening program subject is mountain gospel music featuring guest Tom Sparks. Tom and Terry will recall Fonzer Buchanan and Tyson Buchanan, long time western North Carolina gospel singers.

Friday, May 8

1:45-3:15 Terry Hammond often joins in the weekday music. He is "chief entertainer" this Friday and brings a huge repertoire of familiar music. Come and join in with him!

Saturday, May 9

10:00-6:00 The Orchard will be closed to the public for a private party.

Sunday, May 10

1:00-2:00 The Altapass Foundation will hold its annual meeting at The Orchard.

2:30-4:30 True Blue play toe-tappin’ traditional bluegrass featuring Bernie Burleson, stand-up bass, Tyler Biddix, banjo, Danny Polson, guitar, Charlie Burleson, mandolin, and Diane Dale lead vocalist.

Wednesday, May 13

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks invite music lovers to join an the easy-going jam.

Thursday, May 14

1:45-3:15Terry McKinney offers more chances to "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song," talking with musicians who offer musical memories of their yesteryears.

Friday, May 15

1:45-3:15 Welcome Julia Ann and her new band, Laurel Ridge Bluegrass.

Saturday, May 16

1:00-2:00 Tom Sparks, with his clear, deep voice, always pleases our audiences.

2:30-4:30 The John Shuffler Band, traditional mountain bluegrass, keeps your toes tapping.

Sunday, May 17

1:00-2:00 Tyler Biddix and Altagrass come straight from the Altapass Community showing that young people of the area are just as dedicated to preserving traditional mountain bluegrass and country as the old-timers.

2:30-4:30 Randy Flack brings in guitar, piano, and an array of rib-ticklin' family stories with his musical mix. Experiencing Randy is a "must."

Wednesday, May 20

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are the perfect combo for informal music fun.

Thursday, May 21

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

7:00 PM A Tale of Two Charlies is a play that looks at the lives of Charlie McKinney and Charlie Silvers, written by very noted playwright, Jo Carson. Come and see how she tells the stories of these ancestors at The Orchard. Tickets $15.

Friday, May 22

1:45-3:15 Work In Progress Band plays traditional favorites to please listeners and dancers.

Saturday, May 23

1:00-2:00 Jann Welch and Alan Tinney bring an upbeat mix of folk, country and surprises.

2:30-4:30 Terry McKinney brings his mountain "Opry" show with heaps of musical talent.

Sunday, May 24

12:00-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Area author Janie DeVos signs her books for preschoolers. Parents have commented, "The artwork and heartwarming tale will appeal to the preschool youngsters, but the message of self-acceptance and tolerance towards others is one that older children who can read will be able to grasp even more." Janie offers three titles: How High Can You Fly, The Path Winds Home and Barthello's Wings.

1:00-2:00 Al Abernathy and his Band are a special treat for the Orchard lineup.

2:30-4:30 Johnny Ellis and Band offers up two hours of mellow mountain vocals & dancing fun.

Monday, May 25

11:00-5:00 MEMORIAL DAY BARBECUE & COVERED DISH PICNIC Open to the public. This event will give special honor to the memory of long-time performers and friends Herb Greene, Bruce Moody, Bobby "Lefty" Gardner, Binky Mace, Jimmy Wiseman.

Admission for the meal is a dish to share, large enough for your party with some extra for the musicians who will be entertaining all day. In place of the covered dish, guests may pay $12 per meal. The Orchard provides fresh barbecue, water, iced tea, and paper goods.

Wednesday, May 27

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac pick and sing informally to the delight of our visitors.

Thursday, May 28

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, May 29

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Terry McKinney offer down home country music and fun.

Saturday, May 30

1:00-2:00 Join in on some dance lessons from Travis Paul Anderegg, who has won several awards for his flat-foot style of dance. "Hands Four" will join the class, an Old Time dance band from the Boone
with fiddler M Mueller accompanied by pianist Georgie Donovan. This highly experienced dance band will get your feet moving to Old Time tunes like Old Joe Clark and Sally Ann.
2:30-4:30 Billy Constable and Sassagrass grew up with the area's finest bluegrass musicians. They bring out the best in cloggers and flatfoot dancers.

Sunday, May 31

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Hometown authors Jack Pyle and Taylor Reese offer a fine assortment of their literary works including Raising With the Moon: The Complete Guide to Gardening and Living by the Signs of the Moon. They will sign all of their works, including novels, books of humor, and books for youth.

1:00-2:00 Bluegrass 1101 offers their two-man bluegrass repertoire.

2:30-4:30 Amantha Mill returns with their delightful elegantly downhome music - everything from country classics to traditional mountain ballads. We welcome 'Becca Eggers-Gryder, Billy Helms, Randy Pasley and John Cockman!

THE MONTH OF JUNE

Take me back to the calendar

Wednesday, June 3

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are the perfect combo for informal music fun.

Thursday, June 4

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, June 5

1:45-3:15 Julia Ann and her musical friends join up with upbeat country classics.

Saturday, June 6

12:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Chris McCurry from Highland Craftsmen Inc will show the creative home siding and products from this Spruce Pine-based business.

12:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Bobbie Rae Moose offers handmade soaps, lotions, and Native American leather goods on the Pavilion.

1:00-2:00 The Cole Mountain Cloggers are fine examples of young people keeping mountain traditions AND the kids are earning $$$ for a trip this summer to perform at Disney World!

2:30-4:30 World-class guitar picker Bob Lominac and Band bring country songs for your enjoyment.

Sunday, June 7

1:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING The Orchard is pleased to offer knitting lessons for all levels of experience by knitting guru Barbara Pollard. Barbara will work with absolute beginners to long-timers wishing to expand their skills. Classes are first Sundays, June through September, $10 per class. You may bring your own yarn or purchase yarn from Barbara. She is providing knitting needles for this first class session, or bring your own.

1:00-2:00 Bob Tatum, Ellie Hjemmet and Patty Kunze serenade with ballads of the mountains.

2:30-4:30 Ron and Minnie Powell bring along outstanding local musicians to join in a celebration of traditional acoustic mountain music.

Wednesday, June 10

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks pick and sing informally. Dancing encouraged.

Thursday, June 11

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, June 12

1:45-3:15 Terry Hammond offers his deep knowledge of traditional country music with backup by Alvin Holleman and his "harp" (harmonica.)

Saturday, June 13

12:00-1:00 SPECIAL ADDITION TO THE WEEKEND EVENTS! HARVEST WIND, A FANTASTIC CLOSE HARMONY GOSPEL GROUP, WILL ENTERTAIN EARLY SATURDAY! THEY TRAVEL A LONG DISTANCE TO PERFORM AT THE ORCHARD. PLEASE HELP US WELCOME THEM!

1:00-2:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alan Darveaux, champion dulcimer player for Slight Departure, offers dulcimer lessons for four sessions: Saturdays, June 13, July 11, August 8, and September 12. Click his name here for more details.

1:00-2:00 The Heartland Cloggers join in the high-stepping fun honoring this long-time Appalachian tradition.

2:30-4:30 Eual Owens and Band offering ol' time bluegrass and country for our music fans and dancers.

Sunday, June 14

1:00-2:00 Juniper honors the traditions of Appalachian music by offering a blend of Celtic and Alternative folk music that weaves a tapestry of homeland harmonies.

2:30-4:30 Slight Departure will bring a smile to your face while you enjoy their traditional acoustic instruments and vocal renditions indigenous to western North Carolina.

Wednesday, June 17

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac treat visitors to an old fashion musical jam 'round "Old Huldy," a 1/4 replica of the first train to reach Altapass.

Thursday, June 18

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, June 19

1:45-3:15 Alvin Holleman and Sandy Mattox combine piano and harmonica skills for the pleasure of visitors.

Saturday, June 20

1:00-2:00 Lisa Hodge and Band will play for us. Lisa is the daughter of Mike Hodge, an Orchard regular musician.

2:30-4:30 Doug Gragg and Distant Gold give the audience a variety of great songs that bring out the cloggers, waltzers, two-steppers, boogiers, and anyone who enjoys swaying to the music.

Sunday, June 21

12:30-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Jewelry maker Dana Reynolds shows her very reasonably priced handmade necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more, colorfully hand painted and ready for summer wear.

1:00-2:00 Juniper continues last Sunday's celebration of Celtic traditions, reaching back to the core of Appalachian music.

2:30-4:30 Randy Flack returns with his stories and songs straight from the shadows of the Smoky Mountains.

Wednesday, June 24

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks both have long histories in local music. Drop in and soak up their talents and fun.

Thursday, June 25

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney's program of "Remembering The Good Stuff" brings a special guest from South Carolina who was an original Carolina Barn Dance performer and former Grand Olde Opry performer. She is also a native of Mitchell County. Come out and welcome Betty Duncan Fisher home to remember the good old days.

Friday, June 26

1:45-3:15 Sandy Stanton, accordion performer extraordinaire, is joining us for a Friday performance at The Orchard. Sandy is not only a fine musician, she is a very entertaining personality. She performed with Bob Lominac earlier this season, and has appeared at Young's Mountain Music several times.

Saturday, June 27

1:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING We are fortunate to welcome historian, author and professor Lloyd Bailey who will discuss "Local Conditions During The Civil War." Bailey is the editor of the extensive historical heritage collection of the seven volumes of The Toe River Valley Heritage - North Carolina. Two additional volumes will be ready soon.

1:00-2:00 Rhonda Gouge is the fantastic musician/teacher who taught most of our local musicians to play and love the music of the mountains.

2:30-4:30 Terry McKinney is host for his traditional Appalachian 'opry. Terry proves that the North Carolina Mountains are the original source for that other show in Nashville.

Sunday, June 28

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Well-known author Peggy Poe Stern, autographs her heralded book series of locally-based themes. Find her in the book department.

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Jewelry creator extraordinaire Dana Reynolds shows her delightfully colorful handmade jewelry with very modest price tags!

1:00-2:00 A special treat! Master musical instrument maker Ray Dellinger will play backup (with his handmade guitars, mandolins, etc.) for William Ritter, a very impressive, young musician. They show that the high quality of music in our mountains is endless.

2:30-4:30 We welcome back Brian Gurl, the maestro of the piano. He brings along a fine selection of his musical friends and pack our house time after time!

THE MONTH OF JULY

Take me back to the calendar

Wednesday, July 1

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are the perfect combo for informal music fun.

Thursday, July 2

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, July 3

1:45-3:15 Alan Darveaux, is a champion dulcimer player and leader of the Slight Departure Band. He offers a one-man program of traditional dulcimer tunes and stories of dulcimer music reaching back to its earliest days.

Saturday, July 4

11:00-5:00 4TH OF JULY BARBECUE & COVERED DISH PICNIC Open to the public. Admission for the meal is a dish to share, large enough for your party with some extra for the musicians who will be entertaining all day. In place of the covered dish, guests may pay $12 per meal. The Orchard provides fresh barbecue, water, iced tea, and paper goods.

Sunday, July 5

1:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING The Orchard offers knitting lessons for all levels of experience by knitter-superb Barbara Pollard. Barbara will work with absolute beginners to long-timers wishing to expand their skills. Classes are at this time, every first Sunday, June through September, $10 per class. Bring your own yarn or purchase yarn from Barbara.

1:00-2:00 Barbara VanEycken celebrates the birth of the USA with an extraordinary one-woman tribute show to the Queen of Country Music, Patsy Cline.

2:30-4:30 Al Abernathy and The Old Hat Band fill out the holiday weekend with great high-stepping beats. Our audience loved them when they appeared at The Orchard in late May.

Wednesday, July 8

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are at it again offering informal down home music with lots of interaction with the audience.

Thursday, July 9

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." More details later.

Friday, July 10

1:45-3:15 Brothers David and Donovan Wiseman pick upbeat bluegrass, showing that traditional mountain music is very much alive for the younger generation.

Saturday, July 11

1:00-2:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alan Darveaux, champion dulcimer player for Slight Departure, offers dulcimer lessons for three more sessions: July 11, August 8, and September 12. Click his name here for more details.

1:00-2:00 Julia Ann and the Laurel Ridge Bluegrass cut a mean rug!

2:30-4:30 The Herman Coffey Band is an outstanding bluegrass group featuring true old-time bluegrass.

Sunday, July 12

1:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Young Cy Thomas shows fellow kids (and their parents) a great new product, Modo, My Organic Dough. Cy's modeling dough has great organic scents and all natural colors with no chemical dyes. Bring the children, and enjoy good healthy fun with this creative young man.

1:00-2:00 Bob Tatum, Ellie Hjemmet and Patty Kunze enjoy presenting their music in view of comforting blue mountains. New renovations of the Orchard building makes that possible here.

2:30-4:30 Slight Departure plays music that no one can pigeonhole. Is it Old Time? Is it Bluegrass? Folk?

C & W? Western Swing? We assure you it will be a treat.

Wednesday, July 15

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are pleasant surprises. Tom's deep, smooth voice and Bob's incredible guitar pickin' welcome all comers.

Thursday, July 16

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, July 17

1:45-3:15 Alan Darveaux treats us to his one-man program of traditional dulcimer tunes and stories of dulcimer music throughout history. Alan, of the Slight Departure Band, is a long-time champion dulcimer performer.

6:00-10:30 The Orchard Ball & Silent Auction is a major fundraiser supporting the many special projects of the Historic Orchard at Altapass. The Orchard provides a fine meal, a great dance band, and good natured comraderie along with a silent auction of products, talents and vacation opportunities provided by generous local artists and supporters. More information will be available soon.

Saturday, July 18

12:30-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Author & graphic designer John McKinney introduces his magnificently created book, A Common Thread, A Photographic History of the Burnette, McKinney, Biddix, Hollifield, Brown and Mace Families, in printed form along with CDs of the book to be viewed on computers. The project is full of incredible historic photos and information about these family(ies) and more. This is a MUST event for local history buffs.

1:45-3:15 Enjoy Alvin Holleman's harmonica and Sandy Mattox's piano duets.

2:30-4:30 True Blue with Bernie Burleson and vocalist Diane Dale keep the cloggers on their feet with high-stepping bluegrass.

Sunday, July 19

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Local authors Jack Pyle and Taylor Reese will sign their wide variety of books, including novels, books of humor, and their well-received "Raising With the Moon: The Complete Guide to Gardening and Living by the Signs of the Moon."

1:00-2:00 Alan Tinney and Pete McWhirter, both talented artists, show their musical sides.

2:30-4:30 Randy Flack plays music and jokes with any willing sole - and even accommodates Bill Carson's request for dance music for space scientists.

Wednesday, July 22

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are at it again offering informal down home music with lots of interaction with the audience.

Thursday, July 23

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." More details later.

Friday, July 24

1:45-3:15 Work in Progress Band entertains weekday visitors to The Orchard.

Saturday, July 25

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Bee Sweet Crafts will be here with their wide variety of products made from bees wax and honey.

1:00-2:00 Glenn Nance and Lenny Ski enjoy offering their great versatility in music.

2:30-4:30 Terry McKinney and Friends honor many of the musical talents of the area in a Mountain Opry.

Sunday, July 26

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Author Peggy Poe Stern, autographs her very successful series of books of stories set in our mountains.

1:00-2:00 Tom Sparks began singing at church. We are fortunate to have him sing to us at The Orchard.

2:30-4:30 Brian Gurl and his Friends are amazing professional entertainers who delight their audiences.

Wednesday, July 29

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are appreciated Orchard friends and musicians. Tom's deep, smooth voice and Bob's incredible guitar pickin' welcome all visitors.

Thursday, July 30

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, July 31

1:45-3:15 The Orchard welcomes Alan Darveaux, a champion dulcimer performer who treats us to tunes and stories of dulcimer music throughout history.

7:00 PM It is that very special time of the season! Eddie Graham’s Annual Jazz Show fills The Orchard with the excitement of the finest of New Orleans-style jazz, led by Eddie Graham, Elvis' percussionist in Vegas, and member of Fatha' Hines' Jazz ensemble. Eddie's group are accomplished jazz musicians from all over the nation. This is a "Must Experience." More information to come. Tickets will be available at The Orchard.

THE MONTH OF AUGUST

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Saturday, August 1

12:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Kevin and Joy Clark display for sale Kevin's fine wood-turned items and Joy's handmade soap on the pavilion.

1:00-2:00 Al Abernathy and the Old Hat Band treat Orchard audiences to another hour of great music. They are back by popular demand!

2:30-4:30 Bob Lominac and Friends entertain featuring Bob's incredible guitar-picking style.

Sunday, August 2

1:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING The Orchard offers knitting lessons for all levels of experience by knitter-superb Barbara Pollard. Barbara will work with absolute beginners to long-timers wishing to expand their skills. Classes are at this time, every first Sunday, through September, $10 per class. Bring your own yarn or purchase yarn from Barbara.

1:00-2:00 The English Family sings old time country. Barbara English and her sons turn the pages of time back to the glorious days in Spruce Pine when the Carolina Barn Dance was in full swing, and where teenage Barbara performed along side the young Bob Lominac.

2:30-4:30 Julia Ann and Laurel Ridge Bluegrass will keep the dancers on their feet.

Wednesday, August 5

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are at it again offering informal down home music with lots of interaction with the audience.

Thursday, August 6

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." More details later.

Friday, August 7

1:45-3:15 Terry Hammond returns with the marvelous histories of country musicians and songs. He invites the audience to join him in singing the familiar country favorites. Dancing encouraged!

Saturday, August 8 11:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING George Humphries, author and fine photographer of the Blue Ridge, features his works.

1:00-2:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alan Darveaux, champion dulcimer player for Slight Departure, offers dulcimer lessons for two more sessions: August 8, and September 12. Click his name here for more details.

1:00-2:00 The Cole Mountain Cloggers bring us a new generation of energetic mountain dancing.

2:30-4:30 Herman Coffey and Band continue the true traditions of Appalachian bluegrass.

Sunday, August 9

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Chris Blake, director of Friends of Linville Gorge, will autograph copies of his picture history of the Linville Gorge, Linville Gorge Wilderness Area.

1:00-2:00 Jann Welch & Alan Tinney harmonize to folk songs and mountain ballads.

2:30-4:30 Slight Departure brings smiles to your face while you enjoy their slight departure with acoustic instruments and vocal renditions indigenous to western North Carolina.

Wednesday, August 12

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac pick and sing informally to the delight of our visitors.

Thursday, August 13

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney takes a look at the marvelous musical career of Judy Alexander with special guests Brian & Joey Gurl and Eddie Graham.

Friday, August 14

1:45-3:15 Herman Coffey and Alan English treat us to some upbeat bluegrass pickin' and singin'. They are a true treat!

Saturday, August 15

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Judy Lane shows her fine silver jewelry, handcut stones and wall quilts.

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Bee Sweet Crafts will be here with their wide variety of products made from bees wax and honey.

1:00-2:00 Enjoy harmonica and piano duets with Alvin Holleman and Sandy Mattox .

2:30-4:30 The John Shuffler Band is a great example of old time mountain music.

Sunday, August 16

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Bee Sweet Crafts returns will with their fine products made from bees wax and honey.

1:00-2:00 Ron and Minnie Powell entertain with their fabulous repertoire of songs.

2:30-4:30 Randy Flack brings stories and songs straight from the shadows of the Smoky Mountains.

Wednesday, August 19

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks treat visitors to an old fashion musical jam 'round "Old Huldy," a 1/4 replica of the first train to reach Altapass.

Thursday, August 20

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney hosts a series each Thursday at The Orchard named "Remembering the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." Terry and his guest this week will pick songs from the guest's family jam sessions.

Friday, August 21

Saturday, August 22

1:00-2:00 Enjoy an hour with two of our very talented performers, Doug Gragg and Richard Fletcher.

2:30-4:30 Terry McKinney brings his mountain "Opry" show with heaps of musical talent.

Sunday, August 23

1:00-2:00 Glenn Nance and Lenny Ski entertain with their wide variety of fine music.

2:30-4:30 NOTE DATE CHANGE!! Amantha Mill highlights Billy Helms, Carowinds & Tweetsie RR performer, Boone lawyer 'Becca' Eggers Gryder, John Cockman, eldest son of the well-known musical Cockman Family, and Randy Pasley, three-time winner of the dobro division of the Galax Old Time Fiddler's Convention.

Wednesday, August 26

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac blend music and banter and include audience members in the fun.

Thursday, August 27

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney creates more chances to "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song," talking and performing with musicians who offer musical memories of their yesteryears.

Friday, August 28

1:45-3:15 Bonnie Schmink and the Work in Progress Band nvite Orchard visitors to enjoy the music and relaxed spirit of the mountains.

6:00 PM The Seventh Annual Chili Cookoff, a fundraiser for the preservation projects of the Altapass Foundation. Tickets are $15 each, available at The Orchard. Chili cooks: Please sign up ASAP. Entertainment will be a surprise!

Saturday, August 29

12:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Jann Welch and her students create and display their fine clay creations. Many of their treasures will be offered for sale.

1:00-2:00 The Moore Brothers make their first appearance at The Orchard. These young boys are incredible performers. The 10-year-old plays the fiddle with bluegrass stars and the younger brother is a born m.c.

2:30-4:30 Johnny Ellis keeps the audience dancing with ever-popular country favorites.

Sunday, August 30

1:00-2:00 Bonnie Schmink and Work In Progress Band start the fun this Sunday.

2:30-4:30 NOTE DATE CHANGE!! Brian Gurl, Judy and Friends reach into their bag of musical treats to entertain their audience of devoted fans.

THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER - AN APPLE HARVEST MONTH

Take me back to the calendar

Wednesday, September 2

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac informally entertain Orchard guests with music and stories.

Thursday, September 3

1:45-3:15 Appalachian historian and musician Terry McKinney welcomes guests to "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, September 4

1:45-3:15 Julia Ann and some fine pickin' friends entertain for the afternoon.

Saturday, September 5

12:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Kevin and Joy Clark display for sale Kevin's fine wood-turned items and Joy's handmade soap on the pavilion.

12:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING John McKinney paints delightful mountain scenes and subjects while you watch! John is the historian/artist who authored and put together the incredible area history collection, "A Common Thread," about the intertwined families of the area.

1:00-2:00 Alan Tinney and Jann Welch bring an upbeat mix of folk and country.

2:30-4:30 Bluegrass Mix is the perfect example of energetic mountain bluegrass.

Sunday, September 6

1:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING This is the final knitting class this season by knitter-extraordinaire Barbara Pollard. Barbara works with beginners to long-timers wishing to expand their skills. $10 per class. Bring your own yarn or purchase yarn from Barbara.

1:00-4:30 The nationally-known Cockman Family offers a full afternoon of music. The brothers entertain from 1:00-2:00, and the rest of the family, from Grandpa to grandchildren, join in from 2:30-4:30.

Monday, September 7

11:00-5:00 LABOR DAY BARBECUE & COVERED DISH PICNIC Open to the public. Admission for the meal is a dish to share, large enough for your party with some extra for the musicians who will be entertaining all day. In place of the covered dish, guests may pay $12 per meal. The Orchard provides fresh barbecue, water, iced tea, and paper goods.

Wednesday, September 9

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are at it again offering informal down home music with lots of interaction with the audience.

Thursday, September 10

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, September 11

Saturday, September 12

12:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Teacher Recognition Day with Gloria Houston reading "My Great Aunt Arizona." Ms. Houston will be happy to sign books.

1:00-2:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alan Darveaux, champion dulcimer player for Slight Departure, offers his final dulcimer lesson for this session. Click his name here for more details.

1:00-2:00 Rhonda Gouge offers her fine renditions of mountain ballads. She demonstrates why she is the perfect teacher for local music makers.

2:30-4:30 Johnny Ellis entertains everyone with his fine band and delightful vocals.

Sunday, September 13

12:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING George Humphries, author and fine photographer of the Blue Ridge, features his fantastic works.

12:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Judy Lane demonstrates spinning wheel techniques and weaving. Judy is a very talented artist.

1:00-2:00 Bonnie Schmink with Work In Progress Band offer country, show music and even beach tunes.

2:30-4:30 Slight Departure will bring a smile to your face while you enjoy their traditional acoustic instruments and vocal renditions indigenous to western North Carolina. Dancing encouraged.

Wednesday, September 16

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are the perfect combo for informal music fun.

Thursday, September 17

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

7:00 PM We are sorry to announce the cancellation of the Orchard play, "A Tale of Two Charlies," scheduled for tonight, Sept. 17, due to the illness of one of the performers. The play will not be offered again for the remainder of the 2009 season.

Friday, September 18

1:45-3:15 Julia Ann returns with more upbeat, danceable music.

Saturday, September 19

1:00-2:00 Lynda Davis is an energy packed lady with delightful piano and vocal talents.

2:30-4:30 Eual Owens Band keep the Appalachian traditions in their music.

3:00 Overmountain Victory Trail Members, with an encampment at the Minerals Museum, visits The Orchard to reenact a battle at Kings Mountain. The public is invited to cheer the local forces to victory.

Sunday, September 20

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Author Peggy Poe Stern, autographs her very successful series of books of stories set in our mountains.

1:00-2:00 Julia Ann and Laurel Ridge Bluegrass show a youthful approach to traditional bluegrass.

2:30-4:30 Brian Gurl and Friends offer incredible music by both professional performers and outstanding local musicians.

Wednesday, September 23

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac blend music and banter and include audience members in the fun.

Thursday, September 24

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks entertains with a wide array of traditional country songs in his incredible bass voice.

Friday, September 25

1:45-3:15 Enjoy duets with Alvin Holleman's harmonica and Sandy Mattox's piano.

Saturday, September 26

1:00-2:00 Whistling Woman Phyllis Heil, was awarded the honor of Entertainer of the Year 2009 at the 36th International Whistlers Convention held in Louisburg, NC. She's the only person in the world to have received that high honor four times. The audience loved her when she performed at The Orchard last year.

2:30-4:30 Terry McKinney brings together a remarkable collection of delightful music makers with Terry's Mountain Opry.

Sunday, September 27

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Bobbie Rae Moose offers her very popular soaps and lotions.

1:00-2:00 Glenn Nance and Lenny Ski fill the room with their musical talents.

3:00-5:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Elizabeth Hunter offers the Annual Orchard Monarch Butterfly Migration and Tagging Program. Bring your children to help tag and release these magnificent creatures.

2:30-4:30 Randy Flack is a master entertainer, filled with story songs and favorite memorable country tunes.

Monday, September 28

The Orchard hosts a banquet for the Overmountain Reenactors and for interested community members.

The public is welcome. $10 for dinner, and OVTA skits.

Wednesday, September 30

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks finish out the indoor weekday music programs for 2009. In October, music will be on the Pavilion. The Orchard building will be filled with the apple crop and apple activities and goodies. Come and enjoy the fun and taste all of our apple varieties and specialties. You can pick fresh from the trees, or we will supply you with bags of the crop picked by our staff. Weekend free live music will be offered on the pavilion.

THE MONTH OF OCTOBER: AN APPLE HARVEST MONTH

Oct 3 - Oct 25 Music will be on the outside Pavilion

where fall colors decorate the mountain view.

(Apples fill the Orchard House)

Oct 31 & Nov 1: Final live music weekend for 2009

Music will be back on the inside Orchard stage.

Take me back to the calendar

Thursday, October 1

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song" on the Pavilion.

Saturday, October 3

1:00-2:00 Kimberly Dellinger & Friends debut at The Orchard.

2:30-4:30 Bluegrass Mix is a favorite band for our cloggers. Come join in on our Pavilion dance floor.

Sunday, October 4

12:30-2:00 Clearwater Connection entertain with versatile renditions of country, old favorites, light pop, & much more. This duo plays many of the fine festivals and music events all around the mountains.

2:30-4:30 Al Abernathy & the Old Hat Band is a very popular band with Orchard audiences. Don't miss this!

Wednesday, October 7

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks include audience members in music and banter on the Pavilion.

Thursday, October 8

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney's "Remembering the Good Stuff with Stories and Song" features guest Barry Stagg, Cashbox Magazine's recently recognized special artist. Barry's new song, "Private Edwin Jennison", is now #34 on the US Country Music Charts. Sergio Cassanego will join in the music fun.

Saturday, October 10

1:00-2:00 Join in on dance lessons from Travis Paul Anderegg, who has won several awards for his flat-foot style of dance. "Hands Four" will join the class, an Old Time dance band from the Boone
with fiddler M Mueller accompanied by pianist Georgie Donovan. This highly experienced dance band will get your feet moving to Old Time tunes like Old Joe Clark and Sally Ann.

2:30-4:30 Surefire comes recommended as one of the finest bluegrass groups in the mountains.

Sunday, October 11

12:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING David Biddix and Chris Hollifield autograph and sell "Spruce Pine" their just- published Arcadia Press book with more than 200 photos of the Spruce Pine area going back to its beginnings more than 100 years ago. David and Chris have done an amazing job putting together this marvelous history of our area.

1:00-2:00 Terry McKinney, Barry Stagg, and Sergio Cassanego will entertain for a memorable hour. Barry has been specially recognized by Cashbox Magazine. His new song, "Private Edwin Jennison", is now #34 on the US Country Music Charts.

2:30-4:30 John Shuffler and Band bring us two hours of upbeat, old-fashion bluegrass. Enjoy!

Wednesday, October 14

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks bring much-loved country & gospel music to the Pavilion.

Thursday, October 15

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song" on the Pavilion.

Saturday, October 17 & Sunday, October 18

Orchard music for Saturday, Oct. 17 & Sunday, Oct. 18 is cancelled due to cold weather.

Deadline for entries in the 2009 Orchard Photo Contest is Saturday, October 17. Winners will be announced Saturday, October 23, at 2:00 PM.

Wednesday, October 21

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks include audience members in music and banter on the Pavilion.

Thursday, October 22

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney invites Mike Presnell and Hope Harvey to his program. These are very fine musicians and performers.

Friday, October 23 THE ORCHARD IS CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC FROM 2:30-6:30 FOR A PRIVATE COMPANY EMPLOYEE PARTY. THE ORCHARD REOPENS FOR ITS REGULAR HOURS, 10-6, SATURDAY, OCT. 24.

Saturday, October 24

2009 Orchard Photo Contest Winners Announced

1:00-2:00 Jim Huskins brings his fine high-stepping bluegrass group from McDowell County, Ten Broeck.

2:30-4:30 True Blue with Bernie Burleson and vocalist Diane Dale are crowd pleasers for traditional bluegrass fans.

Sunday, October 25

1:00-2:00 Ray Dellinger & William Ritter. Dellinger is master maker and performer of a variety of musical instruments. He and extraordinary violinist Ritter offer a program of tunes reaching back to the front porches of Appalachian mountains cabins.

2:30-4:30 South Bound Band renews their upbeat music shows at The Orchard.

Wednesday, October 28

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks bring much-loved country & gospel music to the Pavilion.

Thursday, October 29

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song" on the Pavilion.

Saturday, October 31

1:00-2:00 Tom Sparks kicks off the show for the final weekend of music at The Orchard for 2009.

2:30-4:30 Terry McKinney finishes out our country music season with many of his favorite guests.

Sunday, November 1

1:00-2:00 Work in Progress Band lead by Bonnie Schmink entertain with a variety of popular musical genres.

2:30-5:00 Author Gloria Houston will be at The Orchard to sign her marvelous books for children and youth that portray real life in our mountains from the Civil War days through the mid-1900's.

2:30-4:30 Brian Gurl and Friends are the final performance for The Orchard 2009 season. They thrill the crowd in their usual delightful way, featuring show tunes, folk, jazz, light pop, and semi-classical selections.

THIS YEAR TO The Orchard at Altapass:

The Second Annual Photo Contest: Enter your favorite photos taken this season at The Orchard. Prizes will be awarded for winners and runners-up in three divisions: seniors, the general public and children 16 and under. Participants may enter up to three photos for the competition. All photos must be taken at or around The Historic Orchard at Altapass. All photos will become the property of The Orchard and are eligible to be included on The Orchard website:
** October 17 is the closing date for entries with winners named Saturday, October 23.

New!! Coffee Bar at The Orchard: With a nod to modern trends, this season The Orchard at Altapass offers java lovers espresso, lattes and cappuccinos. Enjoy a treat on the back porch with

exquisite views of the Blue Ridge. Bill Carson says the last change of this magnitude for this area

was the coming of the railroad 100 years ago when the Clinchfield crossed the mountain and created Altapass.