For a stay in Candler, pottery history and markets offer concrete points of interest; Candler is also listed as the contact location for kayak tours. These topics appeal to different interests: pottery offers a glimpse into former businesses and their wares, markets feature local produce and traditional crafts, and kayak offerings include fishing or scenic paddling. This makes a practical difference when planning your trip: market visits depend on dates, while you should confirm the booking status of kayak tours before traveling. Consider which of these activities you want to plan your trip around.
Pottery history: names and functional wares
The Penland family's pottery business on Hominy Creek in Candler became known as Jugtown Pottery. Trull Pottery opened in Candler toward the end of Jugtown Pottery's run. This makes it possible to trace the history through more than one business name: the Penland business known as Jugtown was followed by the opening of Trull during Jugtown's final phase. Another name in pottery history is Penland-Stone. This family business sold alkaline-glazed functional pottery to the local community, including tableware and gardening tools. These examples illustrate the practical nature of the pottery: the pieces were intended for use at the table and in the garden. Those who enjoy exploring history through names and objects will find both a chronological connection between Jugtown and Trull and concrete examples of Penland-Stone's products.
Markets with different focuses
The Hominy Gatherin' Market at Ruby Ranch is a monthly outdoor event in Candler. It brings together local makers, producers and small farms. Check the specific date for the 2026 series before visiting, as the schedule may change. The Enka-Candler Tailgate Market has a different focus: it offers the Enka-Candler community fresh local produce while also supporting local agriculture and traditional crafts in Western North Carolina. Its seasonal operating details may change, so check current dates before planning your visit.
The difference between the two markets can help you choose: the Hominy Gatherin' Market brings together makers, producers and small farms. The Enka-Candler Tailgate Market combines fresh produce for the community with agriculture and traditional crafts in the broader regional context. This lets you plan specifically around the market focus that interests you most, rather than treating both events as interchangeable activities.
Kayak tours and regional route information
With Candler, North Carolina, as its contact location, Found 'Em Kayak Fishing Guides offers fishing tours and scenic kayak paddling tours. Both offerings use kayaks, but have different focuses: fishing or scenic paddling. Confirm the current booking status of the tours before traveling.
As regional information: the Enka-Candler Trailblazer route serves parts of western Buncombe County. Route details may change; check current information before planning.
Discover more destinations: Swannanoa, Leicester, Weaverville, Asheville, Arden, Black Mountain.
For the main travel overview: Buncombe.
