Woolly Worm Festival 2024. When jim morton first put a blade of grass in front of a woolly worm, he had no idea that the fuzzy critter at his feet would lead to a festival that draws nearly 20,000 people, 160 vendors, 1,000 worm trainers, and national media crews to the town of banner elk. The winning worm earns a trophy and bragging rights for its business!

Yes, we race woolly worms up here in the mountains. This festival will feature worm races, trampoline and inflatable rides, craft vendors, food vendors, live entertainment and much more.