For over 50 years visitors have come from across the country (and even the world) to the North Carolina Mineral & Gem Festival to enjoy shopping for beautiful jewelry, gemstones, beads, silver, minerals, and more.  This year's Festival is August 2nd thru the 5th at the Bridge Coliseum in Spruce Pine. The coliseum is located at 97 Pinebridge Avenue. It runs Thursday through Saturday 10 am to 6 pm then Sunday from 12:30-5 pm. Free shuttles provided by Mitchell County PublicTransportation.  Thursday: Senior Citizen Day...all Seniors admitted for just $1, Friday: Girls' Day Out! All ladies attending the Festival will be greeted with special booths just for them with goodies, samples and more!, Sunday: Mitchell County Day...all local citizens are admitted to the Festival for just $1.