MOUNT AIRY, N.C. — One of the largest festivals in the state is taking fans back in time to an old-school popular TV show, "The Andy Griffith Show."

What You Need To Know

It’s the 33rd annual Mayberry Days festival in Mount Airy

Mayberry Days is held in Andy Griffith's hometown

Mayberry Days is a celebration of "The Andy Griffith Show"

The Mayberry Days festival is currently taking over downtown Mount Airy. It’s one of the biggest events that the Surry County Arts Council puts on every year.

“It is an enduring show, and people just love to come and celebrate it,” said Abigail Linville, director of collections/exhibitions of the Surry Arts Council.

It’s a celebration of all things Mayberry in the childhood home of Andy Griffith.

“We have fans from all over the country, some from different countries, but it’s just a wonderful time to celebrate all things wholesome, and that’s what folks, a commonality among people, is the wholesomeness of the show,” Linville said.

That wholesome appeal strengthens tourism for the state and Mount Airy. Tourism revenue is back to pre-COVID-19 levels, and Mayberry Days is the reason for more than 95% of visits.

“This is a driver because you’re bringing in people from all over the country to come and celebrate in this small little city, which has impact on your hotels, your restaurants and your downtown area. Everyone feels the impact from the good substantial impact from it,” Linville said.

The Mayberry Days festival runs through Sunday.