Cultural heritage activities are the No. 1 leisure-travel pursuit for families according to a report by the National Tourism Association.

Perhaps that’s why fall festivals continue to draw crowds despite increases in fuel costs. They combine homespun fun such as clogging and hay rides with time-honored craftsmanship and living-history demonstrations all in one scenic locale. Even their most popular venues — antebellum mansions, mills, rural farmland — pay homage to Southern history.

A record 55,000 visitors attended last fall’s Hamilton County Fair, according to Gina Hatler, spokeswoman for Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Department. Ms. Hatler said that number is expected to rise this year with the addition of a new water shuttle to Chester Frost Park from Harrison Bay, which will reduce the driving distance for residents of the Ooltewah-Harrison area.

“I think people enjoy outdoor events like the County Fair because of the atmosphere,” said Ms. Hatler. “Traditional entertainment, sense of community, being family friendly and affordable, and a great location make our event successful.”

Whether your interests run to panning for gold, making molasses, woodworking or bluegrass music with a side of barbecue, there is a festival for you. More than 70 regional festivals and fairs are listed in today’s annual guide.

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