The mysterious creature known as Bigfoot — or Sasquatch — is reported to have wandered the mountains of Western North Carolina for years. But on August 23, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bigfoot’s whereabouts will be no mystery. He’ll be celebrating with fans of all ages at the fourth-annual WNC Bigfoot Festival in historic downtown Marion.
Started by a local Bigfoot researcher who allegedly spied the towering, ape-like creature on the shores of Lake James in 2019, the two-day festival includes an educational expo and a free all-day street festival dedicated to everyone’s favorite elusive legend.
2026 WNC Bigfoot Festival
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2026 WNC Bigfoot Festival
- Date: Saturday, August 23rd
- Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Free admission and free shuttles
On Saturday, five blocks of downtown Marion will be dedicated to the family-friendly festivities, with vendors selling Bigfoot-themed wares ranging from soaps to keychains to T-shirts. The "Bigfoot Jeep Zone" will feature Jeep and off-road vehicles equipped to take you on your next Cryptid Excursion.
Plenty of costumed "Squatches" will be wandering the streets, available for selfies.
A series of speakers will take the main stage throughout the day on Saturday, including members of the Bigfoot Field Research Organization, as the annual Bigfoot Calling Contest at noon, with winners announced later in the day.
What is happening in Marion for WNC Bigfoot Festival
- 8 a.m.: Bigfoot Dash 5K
- 10:30 a.m.: Opening ceremony by Marion's mayor, Steve Little
- 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.: Bigfoot research speakers
- 1 p.m.: Bigfoot Calling Contest
- Participants are competing for a chance to win bragging rights. To enter, pick up a ticket at the Bigfoot 911 booth.
- 1:30 p.m.: Speaker John Bruner of Bigfoot 911 and founder of the WNC Bigfoot Festival
- 2 p.m.: Speaker Zach Bales (Paranormal Roadtripper)
- 2:30 p.m.: North Carolina Investigators of the Paranormal
- All day:
- Try some Sasquatch-inspired dishes, drinks and activities created by Marion’s restaurants and businesses. Refinery13, Marion’s pioneer craft brew and beverage pub, will offer the official WNC Bigfoot Festival pint glass.
- McDowell Arts Council Association will feature 100 percent local art with a Bigfoot and cryptid theme. Peruse their selection of art made right here in Bigfoot Country.
- Flavors on Main is your headquarters for Marion, N.C., Bigfoot shirts. Get Bigfoot swag, outdoor recreation gear, and kitchen spices, teas or candies from this downtown shop.
Throughout the event, visitors can enjoy live music, games, face painting, Bigfoot merchandise and food. The whole town of Marion gets in on the fun, too. Keep an eye out for Bigfoot-themed beers on tap at the breweries. Discover Bigfoot-inspired pottery, stickers, plushies and more.
Where to stay in Marion for WNC Bigfoot Festival
Visitors planning to attend the WNC Bigfoot Festival in downtown Marion can choose from a variety of local accommodations in and around town.
