HIAWASSEE – With the largest collection of rhododendrons and native azaleas in the Southeastern United States, the beautiful Hamilton Gardens on the shores of Lake Chatuge are often referred to as the “Jewel of the Mountains.”
But even jewels need polishing, which is why Gardens Curator Catherine Luckenbach hopes locals turn out big for the Third Annual “Run for the Rhodos 5K” next month.
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After all, the 5K is the primary annual fundraiser for the nonprofit in support of year-round upkeep, and Hamilton Gardens is counting on residents to help maintain the natural destination in their own backyard to benefit local enjoyment and attract tourism business alike.
“Our goal is to see more local runners and walkers come through the gardens this spring,” Luckenbach said, noting that most participation has involved guests from out of town over the last two years. “This is a fun run that is officially timed for the serious runners.
“We hide 10 jars of local honey with ‘hints’ along the trails for the walkers and kids. We have raffles at the end to include everyone that crosses the finish line.”
During the race, attendees will be helped along the way by family-friendly “Buzz Bee,” a whimsical cartoon pollinator posted throughout the course to guide people through the 5K loop: “He is there to encourage folks to ‘Fuel Nature!’” Luckenbach said.
“Run for the Rhodos” is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, and while there’s still time to register, some important deadlines are coming up.
Online registration can be completed at https://runsignup.com/ through April 10. From the homepage, click “Find A Race” and search “Rhodos.” Registering online costs $43.40, which includes a fee.
Local registration ends April 13 and comes with a discounted registration price of $25. Anyone can register locally, even people from out of town, by heading to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Main Office at 1311 Music Hall Road in Hiawassee.
Those wishing to register after April 13 will need to do so on the morning of the race. Race day registration is $40 – T-shirts are included in all registration prices – and is set to begin at 7 a.m. that Saturday. The race itself has been scheduled to start at 8 a.m.
“Run for the Rhodos is a unique, blossoming event presented by Hamilton Gardens of the entertainment rich Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds nestled in exceptionally scenic Hiawassee, Georgia,” according to event billing.
“This runner/walker friendly 5K experience offers racers a woodland trail course that immerses you in our ravishing Rhododendron Garden while in its full bloom splendor! The proceeds from your participation in our 2026 Rhodo Fest garden run will support Hamilton Gardens’ ongoing mission to ‘Fuel Nature!’”
The run will take place halfway through the Rhododendron Festival, which is scheduled for April 11 through May 10. On top of participating in the race fundraiser, residents are encouraged to visit the festival Mondays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Fridays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Festival guests are requested to provide a $10 admissions donation to further support Hamilton Gardens, with kids 12 and under free. Admission to the gardens is included for race registrants on the day of the 5K.
Also on April 25, the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds will be hosting the Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., so 5K participants can head on over after wrapping up the race.
The Wine Festival is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with advance tickets going for $40 and gate tickets for $45. Guests must be at least 21 to drink, though families are welcome to attend, as the festival features more than just wine. Attendees aged 13-20 may enter for $25, with kids 12 and under getting in free.
“Tickets include a souvenir glass and tastings at 30-plus wineries,” according to the event page. “You also have access to food and craft vendors, live music, and garden tours! Shuttle services will be provided from the local campgrounds and hotels.
“Wine by the bottle will be available to purchase. While there is an ATM on-site, we do encourage you to bring cash to purchase wine by the bottle to take home with you.
“Sip, stroll, and savor the beauty of the mountains at the Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival. Sample wines from 30-plus premier regional wineries, enjoy live music by Wyatt Espalin & friends on two stages, browse unique artisan goods, and indulge in tasty bites from local food trucks.
“Don’t miss the chance to wander the Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens at peak bloom!”
