Franklin, NC, Hosts the 58th Annual Macon County Gemboree: A Celebration of Gems, History, and Adventure

Franklin, North Carolina, will once again host the Macon County Gemboree, one of the Southeast’s most anticipated gem and mineral shows. As the region's second-oldest event of its kind, the Gemboree remains a cornerstone of Franklin’s rich history and tradition. The 58th Annual Gemboree runs July 25-27, 2025, at the Macon County Community Building, located just south of Franklin off U.S. Highway 441. Show hours are Friday and Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is $3 for adults, and children 12 and under enter for free. Look for $1 off coupons in local newspapers, restaurants, and the Franklin Chamber of Commerce. 

A joint effort between the Franklin Chamber of Commerce and the Gem & Mineral Society of Franklin, this event draws gem and mineral dealers from across the country, offering a diverse selection of fine jewelry, rough and cut gemstones, minerals, beads, lapidary equipment, and fossils. Visitors can watch live geode cracking and stone faceting demonstrations and enjoy hourly door prizes throughout the weekend.

Before European settlement, the region was home to the Cherokee Nation, whose legacy endures through the historic Nikwasi Mound, a sacred site that remains a significant cultural landmark. Franklin's history is deeply intertwined with key moments in American history, including the French and Indian War, the American Revolution, and the Civil War, during which the town contributed several companies to the Confederate Army. Today, visitors can explore these rich historical connections at the Macon County Historical Museum and along the Civil War Trails project.

For those interested in cultural heritage, the Scottish Tartans Museum in downtown Franklin offers a fascinating exploration of the town’s Scottish ancestry, showcasing traditional tartans, clan histories, and the influence of Scottish settlers in the region.

Gem lovers can also visit the Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum, housed in the historic Macon County Jail, which showcases thousands of mineral specimens, including a 2.25-pound ruby from a local mine and an impressive fluorescent mineral exhibit.

Franklin is the gateway to breathtaking scenic drives and outdoor excursions. Highlights include:

• Mountain Waters Scenic Byway – A picturesque drive through the Nantahala Gorge, with side trips to Wayah Bald and Nantahala Lake.
• Blue Ridge Parkway – Two access points lead to stunning overlooks, historical sites, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Clingman’s Dome – The highest point in the Smokies, offering panoramic views and a scenic drive up Newfound Gap Road.
• Moonshiner 28 – A historic 103-mile route once used by bootleggers, now a favorite for motorcyclists and road-trippers, featuring Cullasaja Falls, Dry Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or a gem enthusiast, Franklin offers something for everyone. Visitors are encouraged to mark their calendars for the 58th Annual Macon County Gemboree and take the opportunity to explore the rich history and natural beauty of this charming mountain town.

To learn more about the Macon County Gemboree, visit their profile page on Xpo Press for detailed information, including venue address, Google map directions, contact information, photos, and website link.