HemlockFest returns to Lumpkin Co.

DAHLONEGA - It's time again for the annual HemlockFest, a three-day benefit event to raise money to help save the hemlock trees in northeast Georgia.

Sponsored by Lumpkin Coalition, it is always held the first full weekend in November just outside of Dahlonega at 396 Starbridge Road.

HemlockFest is described by organizers as "an unparalleled musical experience in a peaceful and beautiful setting."

The family- and eco-friendly event features three days of live music, primitive camping, educational exhibits, arts and crafts vendors, a kid's nature village, rustic living demonstrations, food, and free canoeing. Both day and weekend passes are available, and admission is free for kids (ages 15 and under with a supervising adult ticketholder).

HemlockFest proceeds aid efforts to minimize the impact of the non-native hemlock woolly adelgid (a parasitic insect), which is devastating the hemlock trees of North Georgia at an alarming rate.

HemlockFest has helped raise more than $100,000 over the years to support predator beetle rearing labs at area colleges and universities. Predator beetles feed on hemlock woolly adelgids.

For the seventh annual HemlockFest, Lumpkin Coalition has again assembled an array of area talents.

Featured bands include Colonel Bruce Hampton & the Pharaoh Gummitt, Saint
Francis, Insonnia, Lefty Williams, Caroline Aiken, The Reese Boyd Project, Steel String Session, Veronika Jackson, Mean Mary, Jason Kenney and David Blackmon, 710 South, Carly Gibson, Lara Polangco, Emerald Rose, Women of Heart, BlueBilly Grit, Barry Bailey, Pick & Bow Band, Unifire Theatre, and Glenda Pender-Emcee.

Thirteen of these artists will be featured on the HemlockFest 2011 benefit
album, available for purchase during the festival.

Lumpkin Coalition is a 100% volunteer non-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization formed to facilitate projects that benefit North Georgia, Lumpkin County, its residents and visitors, "dedicated to preserving quality of life for all those who share it...(supporting) the preservation of a clean and healthy environment, responsible living, and responsible growth.

Visit our website at www.hemlockfest.org for more information, tickets, or to volunteer.