Enter to Win A 2-Night Stay + Spa Treatments at Omni Grove Park Inn

Enter to Win

Summer brings so many great festivals and events to Asheville and the western North Carolina mountains, including our many small towns. Here are our favorites! Also, see special features for Memorial Day Weekend and July 4th Week. For events throughout the year, see our list of seasonal calendars.

June, July & August Events & Festivals, Asheville & NC Mountains

FAB Fest

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FAB Fridays run from April-October featuring the best in local Food, Arts, Brews (FAB) on Central St in Downtown Rutherfordton. Come out for live music, a variety of food trucks, beer, and shop… read more

Asheville Art in the Park

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See and buy fine arts and crafts from dozens of local artists at Pack Square Park in downtown. 10 AM-5 PM.

Clay Day

Potters and ceramic artists of the Southern Highlands Guild at the Folk Art Center share a variety of techniques such as throwing, sculpture and coil-building. Glaze and see the firing of raku… read more

Asheville Art in the Park

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See and buy fine arts and crafts from dozens of local artists at Pack Square Park in downtown. 10 AM-5 PM.

Blue Ridge Heritage Weekend

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Held on the spacious farm grounds of the historic Shelton House and Museum of NC Handicrafts in Waynesville, enjoy a craft fair, Appalachian dancing, tours, music, barn exhibits, food trucks,… read more

Blue Ridge Heritage Weekend

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Held on the spacious farm grounds of the historic Shelton House and Museum of NC Handicrafts in Waynesville, enjoy a craft fair, Appalachian dancing, tours, music, barn exhibits, food trucks,… read more

Shindig on the Green

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Musicians and dancers from across Western North Carolina gather to share the region's Southern Appalachian mountain culture and traditions in downtown Asheville in Pack Square Park. Bring a lawn… read more

July 4th Week Festivals, Parades, Fireworks

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Much is happening throughout the Week of July 4th with many parades and fireworks on Independence Day - in Asheville and many small towns in western North Carolina mountains.

July 4th Week Festivals, Parades, Fireworks

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Much is happening throughout the Week of July 4th with many parades and fireworks on Independence Day - in Asheville and many small towns in western North Carolina mountains.

Freedom Fest

Experience an old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration and street festival in Bryson City with a 5K, crafts, food, contests, live music, and the best fireworks show in the Smokies.

Grandfather Mountain Highland Games

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One of the biggest Scottish Games in the United States, with plenty of live music (bagpipes to rock), athletic competitions, dancing, food, heritage vendors, and more.

FAB Fest

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FAB Fridays run from April-October featuring the best in local Food, Arts, Brews (FAB) on Central St in Downtown Rutherfordton. Come out for live music, a variety of food trucks, beer, and shop… read more

Grandfather Mountain Highland Games

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One of the biggest Scottish Games in the United States, with plenty of live music (bagpipes to rock), athletic competitions, dancing, food, heritage vendors, and more.

Shindig on the Green

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Musicians and dancers from across Western North Carolina gather to share the region's Southern Appalachian mountain culture and traditions in downtown Asheville in Pack Square Park. Bring a lawn… read more

Shindig on the Green

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Musicians and dancers from across Western North Carolina gather to share the region's Southern Appalachian mountain culture and traditions in downtown Asheville in Pack Square Park. Bring a lawn… read more

Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands

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Top art show! See and buy traditional and contemporary fine art and craft directly from members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, with 200+ juried artists from mountain regions of nine states… read more

Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands

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Top art show! See and buy traditional and contemporary fine art and craft directly from members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, with 200+ juried artists from mountain regions of nine states… read more

Shindig on the Green

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Musicians and dancers from across Western North Carolina gather to share the region's Southern Appalachian mountain culture and traditions in downtown Asheville in Pack Square Park. Bring a lawn… read more

Shindig on the Green

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Musicians and dancers from across Western North Carolina gather to share the region's Southern Appalachian mountain culture and traditions in downtown Asheville in Pack Square Park. Bring a lawn… read more

Mountain Dance & Folk Festival

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A favorite showcase since 1928, mountain fiddlers, banjo pickers, dulcimer sweepers, dancers, balladeers, and others come together for a showcase of authentic bluegrass music and dancing in… read more

AVL Fest

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New for 2023! This multi-day music festival will showcase 100+ performances across a variety of venues throughout Asheville for an epic summer weekend!

FAB Fest

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FAB Fridays run from April-October featuring the best in local Food, Arts, Brews (FAB) on Central St in Downtown Rutherfordton. Come out for live music, a variety of food trucks, beer, and shop… read more

Mountain Dance & Folk Festival

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A favorite showcase since 1928, mountain fiddlers, banjo pickers, dulcimer sweepers, dancers, balladeers, and others come together for a showcase of authentic bluegrass music and dancing in… read more

AVL Fest

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New for 2023! This multi-day music festival will showcase 100+ performances across a variety of venues throughout Asheville for an epic summer weekend!

Shindig on the Green

Musicians and dancers from across Western North Carolina gather to share the region's stirring Southern Appalachian mountain culture and traditions outdoors in downtown Asheville. Bring a lawn… read more

Wood Day at Folk Art Center

Join Guild woodworkers for an exciting day exploring various forms of woodcraft. Featuring the Annual Carve Off Competition. 10 AM –4 PM.

Labor Day Weekend Events & Things to Do

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See our special list of top events, festivals and things to do during Labor Day Weekend in Asheville and the surrounding towns and mountains.

Labor Day Weekend Events & Things to Do

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See our special list of top events, festivals and things to do during Labor Day Weekend in Asheville and the surrounding towns and mountains.

Fall Events & Festivals

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Find our favorite autumn events and festivals during September and October in Asheville and the NC mountains.

Past Events

Fall Events & Festivals

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Find our favorite autumn events and festivals during September and October in Asheville and the NC mountains.

Rotary Arts & Crafts Fair, Cashiers

See works of 90 fine artisans from the Southeast on the Village Green in Cashiers, 10 AM-5 PM. Find ironwork, woodcraft, textiles, cakes, jams, pottery, and more. Free admission, but donations… read more

Night in the Country Carolinas Music Festival, Tryon Equestrian Center & Resort

Rooted in the Carolina foothills, this music experience transforms the world-renowned Tryon International Equestrian Center into your next great country tradition.The 3-day festival features 12… read more

LEAF Down by the River, Asheville

International music festival happening at The Outpost with cultural youth performances, live music, artisan and food vendors, bounce houses, river fun, and more! Saturday, 11 AM-8 PM. Free.

read more

Hot Nights, Cool Rides Auto Show

One of the largest car shows in the South lines Main Street in Forest City, with a big variety of 400 vehicles including hot rods, motorcycles, model T's and classic Mustangs. Food and live music… read more

NC State Bluegrass Festival

This big outdoor concert weekend in Marion is on the grounds of Tom Johnson's Camping Center - complete with camping options, pavilion and dozens of performers. Single day and weekend tickets.

Laugh Your Asheville Off Comedy Festival

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Get ready to laugh at the largest stand-up comedy event in the southeast returns with 40 comics performing at multiple venues in Asheville. Single event tickets & combo passes.

Sourwood Festival

There's always plenty to see and do at this free street festival in quaint downtown Black Mountain to celebrate sourwood honey! 200 vendors, crafts, live music, kids' activities and food. Saturday… read more

Waldensian Festival

The charming town of Valdese celebrates the "Glorious Return" of the Waldenses from exile in Switzerland to their native Italy in 1689. Find 170+ vendors' crafts, great food, and top-quality… read more

Laugh Your Asheville Off Comedy Festival

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Get ready to laugh at the largest stand-up comedy event in the southeast returns with 40 comics performing at multiple venues in Asheville. Single event tickets & combo passes.

Art on the Greene, Banner Elk

Buy art and support the restoration of the historic school in Banner Elk. Find a big variety of artists working with metal, glass, pottery, wood, jewelry, and more. Many other things to do nearby… read more

Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair

The streets around Burnsville’s town square are filled with 200 juried crafters displaying nearly every kind of handmade craft imaginable. Located 35 miles northeast of Asheville.

NC Mineral and Gem Festival

Go to Spruce Pine to shop, swap, and discover beautiful jewelry, gemstones, minerals, fossils, and more - indoors at 31 Cross Street. Mine tours also. Grassy Creek Gem Show outdoors at Parkway… read more

Chow Chow Food Festival

Savor Asheville's creative culinary scene with many events, chef demos, and hands-on experiences. Meet and connect with the makers and collaborators who nourish, nurture and create in our… read more

Folkmoot International Festival

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The world comes to our mountains for NC's Official International Festival with visiting dancers and musicians from many countries, big street festival, performances, parade and more in Waynesville… read more

International Day

This street festival in downtown Waynesville is the ultimate cultural exchange with international and regional artwork, international dance and music from Folkmoot USA, and great food. 10 AM-5 PM… read more

Grove Arcade Summer Festival

Head to historic Grove Arcade for activities, games, demonstrations, and a live raffle at 5 PM. Enjoy beer and wine courtesy of Wedge Brewing at the festival, as well as food and drink specials at… read more

Folkmoot International Festival

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The world comes to our mountains for NC's Official International Festival with visiting dancers and musicians from many countries, big street festival, performances, parade and more in Waynesville… read more

Love Shine Play Yoga Festival

Formally the Yoga Festival, this event features 40 presenters and 90+ offerings downtown, including yoga, music, outdoor activities, and health & wellness experts (fees). Mountain Air Market … read more

Hillbilly Jam

Head to Maggie Valley to celebrate mountain country living with music, crafts, big car show, moonshine and TV celebrities. 

Front Street Arts & Crafts Show

Stroll downtown artsy Dillsboro and interact with more than 40 of the region's best artisans. Browse the many shops and galleries while experiencing some of the area's best restaurants.… read more

Wild Goose Festival

A festival of justice, spirituality, music and the arts in Hot Springs. Talk, listen, eat and camp together, captivated and challenged by the call of radical humanity, and who seek to celebrate… read more

The Big Crafty

Local's favorite art & craft show with 150 hand-selected local artists. Local food & beer too. Inside the Harrahs Cherokee Center in downtown Asheville (87 Haywood St). Sunday 12-7 PM.

Maggie Valley Summer Arts and Crafts Show

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Meet 100 artisans and crafters from the Southeast with a big variety of art, outdoors at the Festival Grounds (3374 Soco Road) in Maggie Valley. 9 AM-4 PM each day. Free admission and parking.

Coon Dog Day Festival

A street festival for dogs and their people with great food, live music, a very fun parade, crafts, street dance, dog competitions, and more in Saluda. Live entertainment until 11 PM. Free… read more

Maggie Valley Summer Arts and Crafts Show

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Meet 100 artisans and crafters from the Southeast with a big variety of art, outdoors at the Festival Grounds (3374 Soco Road) in Maggie Valley. 9 AM-4 PM each day. Free admission and parking.

Pow Wow at Cherokee

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Experience authentic Indian dancing, drumming and tribal regalia. Dance competitions kick the excitement up even higher. Enjoy crafts, food and fireworks, too.

Art on the Greene

Find a big variety of 40 artists working with metal, glass, pottery, wood, jewelry and more in downtown Banner Elk. Many restaurants, shops and things to do nearby. 10 AM-5 PM. Free admission.

Pow Wow at Cherokee

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Experience authentic Indian dancing, drumming and tribal regalia. Dance competitions kick the excitement up even higher. Enjoy crafts, food and fireworks, too.

Uncommon Market

Asheville’s largest curated, pop-up market for antiques, art, vintage decor, jewelry, and beyond is in the River Arts District. Rain or shine. 10 AM-4 PM. (1 Foundy Street)

PRB® Tryon Chute Out, Tryon Equestrian Center & Resort

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See “the toughest sport on dirt” for two nights of electrifying contests between bulls and riders battling to the eight-second buzzer in TIEC’s International Stadium. Featuring live music, a car… read more

PRB® Tryon Chute Out, Tryon Equestrian Center & Resort

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See “the toughest sport on dirt” for two nights of electrifying contests between bulls and riders battling to the eight-second buzzer in TIEC’s International Stadium. Featuring live music, a car… read more

Asheville Chow-Chow Culinary Festival

Savor Asheville's creative culinary scene with many events, chef demos, and hands-on experiences. Meet and connect with the makers and collaborators who nourish, nurture and create in our… read more

Juneteenth Freedom Festival

Celebrate Black liberation in Downtown Asheville with live music and performances, kids showdown, food trucks, art vendors, and more! Free admission. 11 AM-10 PM in Pack Square Park. 1 Court Plaza… read more

Rhododendron Festival

Two Rhododendron Festivals (North Carolina and Tennessee versions) are held in the Roan Mountain area! The one in Bakersville NC is Friday & Saturday. In TN, it's Saturday & Sunday.

GRINDFest

This free 3-day festival celebrates Juneteenth, the freedom from slavery, and the progress of black people in Asheville. Enjoy a weekend of music, live performances, food, local vendors, community… read more

Bluff Mountain Festival

This free, family-friendly festival in Hot Springs (at the spa) features great old-time and bluegrass music, ballads, clogging, square dancing, as well as a silent auction and raffle of regional… read more

National Get Outdoors Day

The Cradle of Forestry celebrates with free admission and plenty of outdoor activities in Pisgah National Forest near Sliding Rock, including hikes, demos, historic buildings, and kid's… read more

Cherry Bounce Festival

Go to Forest City to celebrate a famous moonshiner with music, crafts, food trucks and cherry-inspired dishes and drinks. Kicks off Friday evening with a big, free outdoor concert.

Liver Mush Festival

Line up for your free Hunter's liver mush sandwich while enjoying live music, hog calling, eating contest, and more in downtown Marion, 5-9 PM.

Cold Mountain Music Festival

Outdoor festival with plenty of live music, food trucks, beer & wine, and more at Lake Logan in Pisgah National Forest south of Waynesville, about 30 miles from Asheville. Day passes from $45/… read more

Mermaid Parade & Festival, Marshall

The legend is that for one day each year, sea creatures and mermaids leave their ocean home and travel the French Broad River to Downtown Marshall. Parade at 5 PM with costumes and lots of water… read more

Drum Circle

Hear and feel the beat at the weekly drum circle every Friday night in downtown in Pritchard Park. And dance the night away!

Concerts on the Creek, Sylva

Unwind on Fridays with this free outside live music summer series in downtown Sylva. Shows are 7-9 PM at the Bridge Park, two blocks from Main Street with shops, restaurants and breweries (so come… read more

The Gathering at Paint Rock Farm

This 3-day festival weekend features live music, arts, camping, and family-friendly activities in Hot Springs, NC. Camp for the weekend or come for a day. Click for ticket options and details.

Downtown Asheville Festival of the Arts

See 100+ regional, local and national artists and craft artisans with fine jewelry, a big variety of art and hand-crafted apparel and decor. Downtown Asheville (80 Court Plaza). Free admission. 10… read more

Downtown After Five

Enjoy live music, food and beer at this big outdoor concert in downtown Asheville. Free admission, 5-9 PM.

Weaverville BBQ Festival

New for 2021, this delicious festival will include a judged BBQ competition with prizes, live music, kid activities, artisans and crafters, entertainment, and more! $2 for adults, kids 10 and… read more

Parade of Nations

Folkmoot, an international music and dance festival, has its Parade of Nations down Main Street in Waynesville at 10 AM with elaborate costumes. Free to attend. 

Downtown After Five

Enjoy live music, food and beer in downtown Asheville, starting at 5 PM. Free admission.

Brevard Music Center Summer Festival

One of the country's premier summer music festivals with 100+ performances by 500 students from around the world - joined by faculty and visiting artists for symphony, opera, pops, chamber,… read more

Ashejam Music Festival

 This 3-day music and art festival features Americana, bluegrass, funk, hip hop, jam, roots blues, rock’n roll, and more at the WNC Ag Center in Fletcher, NC. Find plenty of art, crafts, food… read more

Carolina Bonsai Expo at NC Arboretum

As the premier annual bonsai event of the Southeast, the Expo offers programs for both the bonsai community and general public. It features a juried display of bonsai, a renowned bonsai… read more

Air Fair & Fly In

Go to the Western North Carolina Air Museum in Hendersonville for their big annual open house, airplane rides, children’s Ornithopter rides and antique cars and motorcycles. 10 AM-5 PM each day.… read more

Come to Leicester Studio Tour

Take a free, self-guided tour to 23 studios and shops in Leicester, a community nestled in the mountains near Asheville. 10 AM-6 PM

Lake Lure Olympiad

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One of the biggest sports festivals in NC, the event in the spectacular Hickory Nut Gorge is anchored by three major races: 10K Dam Run, Triathlon and Race up Chimney Rock. Events for kids,… read more

Oskar Blues's Burning CAN Beer Festival

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The weekend-long lawn jam on their scenic REEB Ranch by DuPont State Forest includes a beer fest with 50+ craft-canning breweries, internationally touring bands, camping, food trucks, and plenty… read more

Lake Lure Olympiad

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One of the biggest sports festivals in NC, the event in the spectacular Hickory Nut Gorge is anchored by three major races: 10K Dam Run, Triathlon and Race up Chimney Rock. Events for kids,… read more

Oskar Blues's Burning CAN Beer Festival

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The weekend-long lawn jam on their scenic REEB Ranch by DuPont State Forest includes a beer fest with 50+ craft-canning breweries, internationally touring bands, camping, food trucks, and plenty… read more

Riverfest

A festive day at New Belgium Brewery on the French Broad River near downtown Asheville with live music, food trucks, craft beers, and more - benefits RiverLink. Our favorite is the Anything that… read more

Arts & Crafts Drive-About Tour

Take a free self-guided driving tour of the galleries and working studios of Graham and Swain Counties and buy arts and crafts directly from the artist. Pick up a map at the Stecoah Valley… read more

Pots On the Green

See works from 15 invitational potters in Cashiers; includes a big pottery sale, demonstrations, and more on the Village Green, gazebo, and park. 10 AM-5 PM. Free admission.

Hola Asheville

Experience the sights, sounds, music, pageantry, colorful costumes, food, art, and extraordinary talent of Latin America. Pack Square Park, Downtown Asheville. 12-8 PM. Free admission. 

Downtown After Five

Enjoy live music, food, and beer in downtown Asheville, starting at 5 PM on Lexington Avenue. Free admission.

Cherokee Voices Festival

Experience the 11,000-year old Cherokee culture through dance, music, storytelling, blowgun contest, arts and crafts. Held at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, 10 AM-5 PM. Traditional food… read more

Toe River Studio Tour

Drive scenic mountain roads to find 100 fine artists and crafts people in every medium at their studios for a free, self-guided cultural adventure in the Penland, Spruce Pine and Burnsville area… read more

Organicfest

In Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville, 10 AM-6 PM, with live music, organic local food and beer, cooking demos, samplings, natural arts and crafts. Free.

Upper French Broad Riverfest

Celebrate the headwaters with outdoor fun for all ages, 10 AM-3:30 PM including canoe relay, outdoor gear flea market, hands-on activities, free tubing, music, food trucks and more. Champion River… read more

Sierra Nevada Beer Camp

Epic adult day camp at Sierra Nevada Brewery includes obstacle course, keg bowling, hammerschlogan, silent disco, costume contest and more. Pair those with their iconic and special collaboration… read more

For events throughout the year, see our list of seasonal calendars.

Coon Dog Day Festival, Saluda

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