Prater's Mill Country Fair

The Fair, begun by volunteers in 1971 to raise funds to restore the dilapidated 1855 grist mill and surrounding buildings, has grown into a legendary celebration of Appalachian traditions featuring live music, the best Southern cooking this side of Heaven and handmade original crafts by over 165 talented artists and craftsmen.
Prater’s Mill Historic Site is owned by the people of Whitfield County but operated and maintained by the Prater’s Mill Foundation. As a nonprofit volunteer based group, the foundation relies heavily on the revenue from the annual Country Fair. The County Fair is the primary fundraising event for our nonprofit volunteer based organization. All proceeds fund the mission of the Foundation "to protect, preserve and present the heritage of the Prater's Mill Historic Site for future generations."
In addition to self-guided tours of the mill, visitors may also experience the inside of an old country store while visiting Prater's Store or investigating the buildings added to the site over the years - Shugart Cotton Gin, Dr. Lacewell's Office & Westbrook Barn.
The fair boasts several activities such as “Little Texas” kid's train ride and Petting Zoo adored by children and adults alike. The whole family can experience a short hike down the Prater’s Mill Greenway which connects to the Norma Gordon Nature Trail; pony rides and face painting are always at the top of kids’ to-do list.