There must be something in the water in Taylorsville, North Carolina, because our small town has produced professional baseball players, bowlers, and NASCAR drivers. There is certainly something drawing people in because, since 2020, the population has risen over 15%. They may also be drawn in because the cost of living here is 16.5% lower than the national average, and home values have gone up over 8% in the last 12 months.

Named after General Zachary Taylor, the town was created in 1847 and is the county seat of Alexander County. Forty-six acres were donated to get started, and sixty-two lots were sold in auctions for $6,675.75. The money was used to build the courthouse and jail.

Taylorsville's annual highlights include the Apple Blossom Festival in May and the Apple Festival in October, which are a tribute to the county's #3 spot in North Carolina apple production. The Apple Blossom Festival is filled with fun, local produce, arts and crafts, and more. Annually held on the 3rd Saturday of October, the Apple Festival draws about 35,000 visitors and hosts over 400 booths and rides. Three stages are set up, but the crowd's favorite is the Kids Korner. The young ones can enjoy pony rides, puppet shows, inflatables, and a mechanical bull. There are many apple-themed foods like fried pies and other culinary delights like barbeque, Italian sausage, and homemade baked goods. Proceeds from the festival go to the county's needy children. 

A festival that sweeps you off your feet is the Carolina BalloonFest, the country's 2nd oldest festival of its kind. Take a scenic hot air balloon flight or go up in a balloon tethered to the ground for those less daring. The skydiving exhibition, aerial circus, and balloon races are a sight to behold. If you're not daring enough to fly, there is a kid zone, live entertainment, a wine and beer garden, and more. A portion of the proceeds has been donated to local charities for more than 45 years.

Go from the air to water at Sun Crest Water Park. Enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery while cooling off in the natural water pool. Try the old-time rope swings, age-appropriate waters slides, or the giant 100-foot slide. The park is also great for a birthday party or corporate event. Trip Advisor ranks Sun Crest as the #1 thing to do in Taylorsville.

For the best of local produce, head over to Deal Orchards. Since 1939 the Deal Family has worked hard on their craft and has grown from 15 acres to over 100. Stop by the old-fashioned Farmers Market and take home some sweet seasonal fruits like peaches, pears, and apple varieties. Also available are homemade jams, jellies, ice cream, honey, ciders, and more.

If you find that the wonderful sweetness you've brought home is attracting bugs, there is another local "best" to help, At Ease Pest Solutions. We are the area's top choice for pest control services and are familiar with local pests like flies, mosquitoes, and roaches. Contact us today for an estimate.