Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center

In the tiny town of Stecoah (near Robbinsville), is a surprising jewel - offering amazing art, craft and entertainment that you normally find in much larger towns. Located in a historic school building, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center is near the Nantahala River rafting area, Bryson City and Fontana Lake, in the shadows of the Great Smoky Mountains.

The Stecoah Valley Artisans Gallery showcases the work of the 50-plus members of the Stecoah Artisans Guild, a juried membership organization, as well as the Associate artists of the Guild. The Gallery is open 10 am - 5 pm Monday through Friday year round; Saturdays from 10 am - 5 pm April through December; and Sundays from Noon-5 pm June through October.

The Artisans Guild hosts two Drive-About Studio Tours annually in June and November.

The Grand Old Stage hosts concerts and events throughout the year. An Appalachian Evening, the summer concert series, offers an ever-changing schedule of bluegrass, folk and old-time mountain music by award-winning artists. These shows provide quality entertainment for the entire family, and the historic Stecoah auditorium brings back memories of community gatherings in days gone by.

Many other events take place throughout the year on the historic stage. The Ramp Festival Concert is always held on the last Saturday in April. Gospel Singings featuring local choirs, quartets and other gospel groups are held quarterly. The Annual Father's Day event features a dinner Dad will enjoy and a performance. In past years we've had "Mark Twain" and Gary Carden's "Prince of Dark Corners" performed on our stage. Folkmoot USA, North Carolina's Official International Festival, visits the Stecoah Valley Center each July. Folkmoot is a two-week celebration of the world's cultural heritage through folk music and dance.

Directions from Asheville (85 miles): Take I-40 west. Take the exit for Hwy 74 (Great Smoky Mountain Expressway). Stay on Hwy 74 (four lane) you will pass Clyde, Sylva, and 8 miles past Bryson City (last chance for groceries, restaurants) turn right on Hwy 28 and watch for signs for Stecoah.

For more, go to the Stecoah Web site.