The Blue Ridge Mountains Parade of Homes runs Friday, October 16 through Sunday, October 18, 2026. Homes are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. It’s a self-guided tour of new custom homes from local builders. You may hear it called a tour of homes, but the official name is Parade of Homes, so search that.
I pulled the details from the parade’s own website so you don’t have to hunt for them. Things change, so check blueridgeparadeofhomes.com before you drive up.
How much are tickets?
$35. One ticket covers all three days. Children under 18 are free with an adult ticket. Tickets are nonrefundable, and the parade runs rain or shine.
The money goes to the Future of Our Trades Scholarship Foundation, which pays for local students to train for building careers. The parade says it has awarded more than $1,040,000 in scholarships since 2019.
Where do I check in?
SouthState Bank, 59 Orvin Lance Connector at Highway 515 in Blue Ridge. You pick up your ticket, a lanyard, a magazine about the homes, and a map. Check-in hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Friday: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Saturday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The bank won’t take payment itself. If you buy tickets once you’re there, you still buy on the parade’s website with a card.
How many homes, and where are they?
The parade’s 2026 list shows 14 homes. Most are in and around Blue Ridge and Ellijay. One, 452 Summit Trace, is in Blairsville. The styles run from log and timber-frame homes to a barndominium-style build to contemporary mountain homes.
Can I see every home in one day?
You can, but the parade itself calls it a stretch. Your ticket is good all three days, so I’d split it up. Pick homes by builder and style first, then group them by area. The Parade of Homes app (Apple and Android) has a map, and you can mark favorites and visited homes and take notes. The magazine is your backup for written directions.
Coming from out of town? Book lodging early. The parade says fall is one of the busiest times of year here.
What are the house rules?
- Shoes off, or wear the booties provided. Check your socks before Friday.
- Keep your ticket visible.
- No pets, no smoking, and no outside food or drinks inside the homes.
- Ask before taking photos.
- Watch your kids. The homes aren’t childproof.
What should I ask while I’m there?
The view will sell the house. These questions cover what the view doesn’t:
- What’s standard, and what’s an upgrade?
- Who handles the site work and driveway on a steep lot?
- Septic or sewer?
- How long from signing to move-in?
Builders are often at their homes, so ask them. Floor plans aren’t handed out because the builders treat them as their own work, so take notes. Some of the homes are for sale. Ask the representative at each one.
I came to real estate after ten years as an IT executive. I live in Big Canoe and work the Jasper, Ellijay and Blue Ridge corridor. Not sure Blue Ridge is the right town? Start with the Blue Ridge area guide, then book a 15-minute Mountain Move Call and we’ll talk through what you saw.