Tucked into the heart of the Western North Carolina mountains, Saluda, NC is a small town with serious charm and a strong sense of community. Its mountain setting, historic downtown, and local traditions make it a destination worth exploring any time of year. One of the best times to visit is during Coon Dog Day in Saluda NC. This beloved annual festival celebrates a unique piece of local culture with live music, a parade, food vendors, crafts, and, of course, a tribute to the loyal coon dog.
Whether you’re a longtime visitor or it’s your first trip to this charming mountain town, Saluda Coon Dog Day offers the perfect introduction to the area’s warmth, pride, and quirky personality. Of course, there are plenty more things to do in the Western North Carolina Mountains while you’re here. Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or explore nearby hiking trails that offer stunning views of the mountains. Spend some time in downtown Saluda browsing local shops, sipping beer at a laid-back craft brewery, or enjoying a meal at one of the town’s cozy restaurants – especially our own elevated Saluda Restaurant, Newman’s.
You’ll find ziplining, fly fishing, and scenic drives just minutes away. And if you’re up for a day trip, Asheville is just a short drive up the road, with vibrant art galleries, music venues, and acclaimed food spots waiting to be discovered. After the fun and festivities, there’s no better place to unwind than our boutique Saluda Hotel. Surrounded by nature and filled with rustic elegance, this historic inn offers guests a chance to relax in comfort with sweeping views of the mountains. Whether you’re here for Coon Dog Day, exploring Saluda NC, or simply craving a break in the Western North Carolina mountains, now is the time to book your stay!
What to Expect at Coon Dog Day in Saluda NC
If you’re planning a summer trip to the Western North Carolina mountains, timing your visit around Coon Dog Day in Saluda NC is a great idea. This quirky, beloved festival is one of the most anticipated events in Saluda, NC, each year, and for good reason. With a small-town parade, live music, authentic Southern food, and an entire event dedicated to the loyal and lovable coon dog, it’s a celebration unlike any other. It’s also a great way to get to know this charming town and its friendly, down-to-earth vibe.
Coon Dog Day is held annually on a Saturday in early July, right in the heart of downtown Saluda. This year, the event will be on July 12th, 2025. Main Street transforms into a buzzing hub of activity, welcoming both two-legged and four-legged guests (as long as your pups are leashed). If you’re staying at our Saluda Hotel, you’ll be happy to know the event is less than a mile away!
Coon Dog Day Festival Highlights
The Coon Dog Day Festival kicks off bright and early with the annual 5K Race & Fun Walk at 8 a.m. Runners and walkers alike enjoy the scenic, tree-lined course through downtown Saluda, complete with a rewarding uphill climb and refreshments at the finish. Be sure to register in advance if you want a commemorative t-shirt. Same-day registration is typically available if you decide to join the fun at the last minute.
By mid-morning, the iconic Saluda Parade gets rolling at 11 a.m. Expect a colorful mix of classic cars, fire trucks, horses, handmade floats, and of course, proud coon dogs and their handlers strutting their stuff. One of the many highlights of the festival is the Coon Dog Day Royalty Float, where the newly crowned king, queen, princes, and princesses wave to the cheering crowd. It’s small-town charm at its finest.
After the parade, head over to the Saluda School Ball Field for the AKC-licensed Coon Dog Show, where you’ll see these unique hunting dogs take the spotlight. The bench show and youth competitions highlight the breed’s distinct personality, showing just how strong, vocal, and incredibly skilled these dogs are. The treeing contest is always a crowd favorite and offers an up-close look at what makes coon dogs such extraordinary working animals.
You’ll find plenty of opportunities to refuel and relax throughout the day. Local vendors line the streets offering everything from classic fair food to traditional Southern favorites. Live music keeps the energy high, and as evening settles in, the celebration winds down with a community dance that brings everyone together. Be sure to grab a Coon Dog Day t-shirt before you leave. It’s the perfect souvenir from a day that blends tradition, community, and fun in one unforgettable package.
Stay Close to the Celebration at Our Boutique Saluda Hotel
With over 15,000 visitors flocking to town for Coon Dog Day in Saluda NC, accommodations go quickly. Planning ahead is essential. Located just a mile from Main Street, our boutique Saluda Hotel offers accessibility and privacy. Our hotel’s mountain setting provides a peaceful escape from the crowd, and an elevated experience unlike any other in the Western North Carolina mountains. Whether you prefer a cozy room in the historic main Inn, a private cottage tucked into the trees, or a spacious suite with sweeping views, there’s a perfect accommodation for every type of traveler.
Each morning begins with a freshly prepared, gourmet breakfast with mountain views that remind you why you came to the Western North Carolina mountains in the first place. Enjoy local ingredients and thoughtful dishes crafted to fuel a day of exploring, whether you’re off to the Saluda Coon Dog Day parade or heading out for a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains. After breakfast, wander through the Inn’s peaceful grounds, read a book on the porch, or book a treatment at the on-site spa, where expert therapists offer everything from Swedish massage to rejuvenating facials.
While you’re enjoying your stay in Saluda, we hope you’ll join us for a meal or two in the evening at Newman’s Restaurant. Our Saluda restaurant offers an exquisite menu crafted with local ingredients, a fantastic wine list, and stunning views to accompany it. Far from the (yummy) festival food you’ll enjoy at the Coon Dog Day Festival, a meal at Newman’s will invigorate your taste buds and leave you wanting to come back for more.
The Saluda Coon Dog Day Festival is a high-energy, unforgettable event, and staying at the Orchard Inn ensures you can enjoy every moment while having your own mountain sanctuary to return to. It’s the ideal way to experience the restorative beauty of the Western North Carolina mountains. Don’t wait—book your stay now and experience why so many guests return year after year.
