August 18-19, 2017
Join other fans of the cult-classic movie Dirty Dancing and relive memories of Baby's first dance at the film’s original, breathtaking backdrop of Lake Lure. In 2017, the Dirty Dancing Festival is bigger and better than ever to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the film and commemorate Patrick Swayze's 65th birthday. Also, the remake of Dirty Dancing will air on ABC this year!
The festival features a free lakeside screening of the original movie at Morse Park Meadows on Friday. Throughout the day on Saturday, enjoy music and many activities (see more below). Come to scenic Lake Lure to dance, eat, drink, golf, attempt your own ‘Lake Lift,’ carry a watermelon or two, and ultimately have the ‘Time of Your Life!’
Buy tickets in advance! Only 3,000 tickets are available, and we bet it will sell-out.
Named the “#1 Most-Watched Film by Women” by the BBC News, Dirty Dancing’s impact on pop culture remains timeless. Named one of the top 10 most beautiful man-made lakes in the world by National Geographic, Lake Lure is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Located about 27 miles from Asheville, Lake Lure sits in the Hickory Nut Gorge, surrounded by lush mountain tops and sheer granite cliffs. Look up to see the famous Chimney Rock.
Friday Night: The Dirty Dancing Festival Lakeside Screening at Morse Park Meadows. Food and drink vendors will be open 5-10 PM. Festival ticket holders will get in early (5-8 PM) for live entertainment. Then gates open to public for the free film viewing at 8 PM. Bring a blanket orchairs and cuddle up to watch Dirty Dancing alongside the famous Lake Lure! Please do not bring alcohol.
Saturday: The Dirty Dancing Festival at Morse Park Meadows, 9 AM-5 PM, is a full day of fun with live bands, dance performances, beer, cider and wine garden, games for all ages, food and craft vendors, and of course the Lake Lift Competition! Asheville Ballet performs and teaches famous dance moves from the cult-classic film throughout the day. With admission (see below), you can come and go throughout the day with your wristband.
Dirty Dancing After Party lakeside at Rumbling Bald Resort will feature a 10-piece brass band, dancing, and beach cookout. More info TBA.
Admission (Limited tickets! Includes Friday night early entrance & Saturday.)
- Adults (age 13 and over): $15 before January 5, 2017. $20 before August 17. $25 at door if any tickets remain.
- Children 12 and under: $3 before January 5, 2017. $5 before August 17. $10 at door
- Tickets go on sale now at dirtydancingfestival.com.
- Parking is $10 on-site, $5 in two nearby lots with included shuttle
The festival benefits the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PANCAN) to help find a cure, as a tribute to the film's late star Patrick Swayze.
Have you heard about the new Dirty Dancing movie filmed in the North Carolina mountains in 2016? Read all about it.
Also, read more about things to do in the Hickory Nut Gorge & Rutherford County.
