May 26-28, 2023
This fun street festival in Downtown Brevard honors some special wildlife critters, the white squirrels. These are not albinos, but siblings to the gray Eastern tree squirrel. This particular species made its way to Brevard in 1949 as a result of a carnival wreck in central Florida.
White Squirrel Weekend is a unique and nutty summer event that's fun for people of all ages! The music is the major showcase, giving prominence to national and even international performers who are connected to Transylvania County, with 14 free concerts! And there's plenty of food, art, and crafts.
It’s no wonder that the White Squirrel Festival was recognized by the Southeast Tourism Society as one of the Top 20 May festivals. (Traditionally, the festival was held on Memorial Day Weekend, but has since been moved to June.)
For those who don’t believe they really exist, walk through nearby Brevard College, the squirrels’ favorite feeding grounds. Those lucky enough to live in Transylvania County will be displaying their winning photos of these wildlife critters caught on film. Photo entries will be on display, as well as a White Squirrel Exhibit that recalls their Brevard history and the results of the squirrel count that takes place every year.
Free admission. For safety reasons, dogs are not allowed. No alcohol is allowed at the weekend event, except for the approved designated areas.
White Squirrel Weekend 2023 Schedule of Events
Friday, May 26
- 5-10 PM: Beer Garden and Food Vendors Open
- 6:30- 10 PM: Live music
Saturday, May 27
- 10 AM: Street Festival Open
- 10:30 AM: Auto Show
- 12 PM: Beer Garden Opens
- 5:30-10 PM: Live Music
Sunday, May 28
- 10 AM-5 PM: Street Festival, live music, beer, food
Visitors are encouraged to stay through Sunday and enjoy food, music, and demonstrations.
The music stage is located inside the beer garden and adjacent to the food truck corral. Bring your own chair!
Directions from Asheville: I-26 East to exit 40/Highway 280/Airport toward Brevard. Downtown Brevard is 33 miles from Downtown Asheville.
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