BLUE RIDGE, GA – Thousands flocked to the mountains of North Georgia to experience the Great American Eclipse of 2017. Fannin County and the City of Blue Ridge were not spared the large crowds as people waited in anticipation of totality.

Crowds gather in anticipation of the eclipse.

Businesses throughout the county held special events that welcomed locals and visitors alike. Mercier’s Orchards was one of these businesses, allowing people a view of the eclipse from a hillside overlooking the orchard.

Photographers set up along roadways and discussed their equipment as they prepared for the perfect moment to come. All of the photographers were proud to show off their special filters and were eager to allow fellow ‘eclipsers’ to gaze through their lens.

Mike Cipolla prepares to photograph the eclipse.

Atlanta-based amatuer photographer, Richard Blackburn stated, “I enjoy letting people see exactly what I will be able to photograph.”

Hundreds filled the park in downtown Blue Ridge. Excitement built as 2:35 P.M. neared. While the crowd fell silent moments before totality, emotion overtook them as they removed their solar eclipse glasses to see firsthand the fully eclipsed sun and shouts of excitement rang out.

Just as quick as the visitors came, they left, crowding the streets as they made their way home. While there were significant traffic delays throughout the county, and a few minor automobile accidents, Fannin County EMA is reporting that there were no major incidents that took place.