Years before gold was discovered in California, the nation’s first big rush for the shiny metal descended upon Dahlonega. The annual Gold Rush Days festival Oct. 20-21 celebrates the town’s 1828 discovery with a weekend full of arts, crafts, music, food, children’s activities, a parade, contests and a chance to pan for gold. More than 300 art and craft exhibitors will gather around the down square and Historic District, with some 200,000 visitors expected.