Put on Your Tie Dye and Head for the Hills
The Shakori Hills Festival is a great excuse to take a drive through Chatham County's gorgeous countryside (about a 45-minute drive from either Raleigh or Durham). During my visit to Shakori Hills today, I relished the opportunity to wander among four different stages of live music while enjoying unparalleled people-watching and shopping for really unique items, including handmade crafts and a mind-blowing selection of tie dyed items.
I was also truly amazed to see how many people make use of Shakori Hills' campground. If you're the outdoor type, just bring your tent to the festival--you (along with hundreds of like-minded folks) can camp for free at the festival's campground ($60/weekend if you want to "car camp"). Don't forget to bring some decorations for your campsite--Tibetan prayer flags seem to be the dominant motif. Pirate flags also appear to be somewhat popular.
Green-minded folks will be thrilled to know that there is public transportation available to help them get to Shakori Hills: a biodiesel-powered 15-passenger shuttle bus will make stops in Durham, Chapel Hill and Carrboro on its way to the festival. The bus's route and schedule are limited, but the ride is a steal at $8/round-trip.
Tickets and passes are $26-85 for adults, $11-45 for kids 13-15. Admission is free for kids under 12. Parking is $4/day or $10 for the whole weekend.
Shakori Hills is located at 1439 Henderson Tanyard Rd., Pittsboro.