Downtown After 5 has become a staple of Asheville’s cultural calendar, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to experience live music in the heart of our vibrant city. This year, each event is centered around highlighting a nonprofit partner with a theme that celebrates diverse musical genres, food and beverage offerings, local makers, and community initiatives. Each Downtown After 5 event draws an enthusiastic crowd of between 5,000 to 6,000 attendees to North Lexington Avenue, transforming it into a vibrant hub of music, dance, and community.

August 16 | LEAF Downtown
In collaboration with LEAF Global Arts, we’re excited to bring back LEAF Downtown at Downtown After 5. Tito Puente Jr. will be headlining the event, with the LEAF Kono Band opening.

September 20 | Outdoor Rec Fest
Closing out the series is September’s Outdoor Rec Fest with Riverlink. Featuring headliner Oliver Hazard and opener Paul McDonald. Celebrate Asheville’s outdoor lifestyle by engaging with our outdoor recreation partners and vendors.

Downtown After 5 is more than just a concert series; it’s a community staple that celebrates the diversity and creativity of Asheville. Each event is free to the public, thanks to the generous support of our sponsors and partners. Food and beverage vendors will be on-site, with a portion of proceeds supporting the nonprofit partners associated with each event.

The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

Drum Circle

The Asheville Downtown Association is proud to facilitate the return of Asheville’s iconic Drum Circle. Feel the rhythm and join the beat as the community comes together for an evening of drumming, dancing, and camaraderie.

The original Jersey boy himself, Frankie Valli is a true American legend. His incredible career with the Four Seasons, as well as his solo success, has spawned countless hit singles. With unforgettable tunes like “Sherry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “December ‘63 – Oh What A Night,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” and of course, “Grease.” His songs have been omnipresent in other iconic movies such as The Deer Hunter, Dirty Dancing, Mrs. Doubtfire, Conspiracy Theory and The Wanderers. As many as 200 artists have done cover versions of Frankie’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” from Nancy Wilson’s jazz treatment to Lauryn Hill’s hip-hop makeover.

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons have sold over 100 million records worldwide. They continue to tour throughout the U.S. and abroad to packed houses receiving nightly standing ovations from thrilled fans of multiple generations.

Valli’s long-lasting career has led to the overwhelming success of the Broadway musical JERSEY BOYS, which chronicles Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons incredible career and features all of their greatest hits.

The JERSEY BOYS juggernaut has now been seen by over 18 million people worldwide, won 4 Tony Awards including Best Musical (2006), and is currently playing in New York; Las Vegas; London; in cities across the U.S. on a National Tour and The Netherlands; and will open soon in Korea. It is the 15th longest running show in Broadway history, having played over 3,250 performances and recently passing Fiddler on the Roof, Hello Dolly!, The Producers, Hairspray, My Fair Lady and Oklahoma.

In 2014, Frankie Valli’s life story was once again featured. This time in the film adaptation of JERSEY BOYS, directed by Academy Award winning director Clint Eastwood. Valli also returned to acting in Rob Reiner’s romantic comedy, And So It Goes. The film starred Michael Douglas and Diane Keaton, and was release July 18, 2014. Frankie recently appeared on this past season of Hawaii 5-0 and his mega hit BIG GIRLS DON’T CRY was just inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame 2015. On May 18, 2015 Dan Rather profiled the legend for his series, The Big Interview and he also participated in the AMC series, The Making of the Mob.

In 2016, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons appeared on Broadway in a limited engagement October 21 through October 29 at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. Frankie Valli released, TIS THE SEASONS, which was a holiday album released on October 14th, 2016 on Rhino.

First-ever Jazz album, A TOUCH OF JAZZ, was released June 25, 2021 while touring worldwide.

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Join us Saturday, August 17 at the Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room and Winery for live music at the vineyard with Jeff Michels!

Jeff will be performing at Burntshirt Vineyards in Hendersonville on Saturday from 12-3 PM. It’s sure to be an afternoon of amazing music, fabulous wines, great food and good times! We can’t wait to see you here!

Visit LEAF Global Arts every Saturday for an in-house cultural exchange with Adama Dembele. Experience the Ivory Coast with our Culture Keeper from the House of Djembe.

fletcher parks concerts

The annual Summer Concert Series at Fletcher Parks offers free, live music. Organized by the Fletcher Parks & Recreation.

Locals and visitors alike come together at downtown’s Pack Square Park “along about sundown,” or at 7:00 pm for those who wear a watch, and continues until 10:00 pm. Concessions are available!

The stage show takes place on the Bascom Lamar Lunsford stage, named for the founder of the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival. Since the outdoor event’s inception in 1967, hundreds of thousands of individuals from across the region and throughout the world have shared and enjoyed the rich traditional music and dance heritage of the Southern Appalachian Mountains in this outdoor setting.

Shindig on the Green remains a free event due in part to net proceeds from ticket sales to the nation’s longest continually running festival, the granddaddy of all festivals, the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival.

Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues returns to Hendersonville Theatre in August for HT’s Hometown Sound Music Series! Alabama Blues Hall of Fame member Mac Arnold’s first band included James Brown on piano. He toured and recorded with the Muddy Waters Band and recorded LPs with Otis Spann and John Lee Hooker. Mac moved to Los Angeles and produced Soul Train with his friend Don Cornelius. He even played bass on the Sanford & Son television show when he wasn’t playing bass for Otis Redding and B.B. King. After retiring from show business to become an organic farmer, Mac is back with his band and a “plate full” of CDs, building a new foundation in blues, soul, and funk.

​As part of the Muddy Waters Band, Mac helped shape the electric blues sound that inspired the rock and roll movement of the late 60’s and early 70’s. Regular guests of the band included Eric Clapton, Paul Butterfield, Mike Bloomfield, and Elvin Bishop. The Muddy Waters Band (as a unit) shared the stage with the likes of Howlin’ Wolfe, Elmore James, Jimmy Reed, Junior Wells, Big Joe Williams, and Big Mama Thornton just to name a few. During this time, Mac played on John Lee Hooker’s “live “album, Live at the Café Au Go-Go, as well as Otis Spann’s classic recording The Blues is Where It’s At.

Mac later formed the Soul Invaders which backed up many artists, including The Temptations and B. B. King. In the early 70’s, he moved to Los Angeles to work at ABC Television and LAFF Records (Redd Foxx). This led to working on the set of Soul Train from 1971 to 1975 and then working with Bill Withers (Lean On Me) before moving back to South Carolina in the 80’s.

​Mac now resides in Pelzer, SC, where at the age of ten he got his first taste of the blues when he learned to play his brother Leroy’s homemade guitar. Going back to his roots. Mac is serving up a mess of Blues with his band, Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues. The band consists of Austin Brashier on guitar and vocals, Max Hightower on harmonica and vocals, Rick Latham on drums, Mike Frost on bass, and Mac Arnold on vocals and Gas Can Guitar.

The Blues Music Awards have taken notice of Mac Arnold over the past few years. Mac was on hand for the 31st annual Blues Music Awards held May 6, 2010, in Memphis. Mac accepted the award for Best Historical Album for his participation in the 1966 recording Muddy Waters – Authorized Bootleg: Live at the Fillmore Auditorium (Geffen Records). The recording was released in 2009.

You can learn more about Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues at www.macarnold.com.

Internationally renowned R&B singer-songwriter Kem has always been driven by music and the emotions involved in bringing it to life. Much of his inspiration comes from his personal life experiences, like his journey from homelessness and addiction to sobriety and prosperity.

In 2002, the Detroit-native independently released his first CD, KEMISTRY, and sold 15,000 units literally out of the trunk of his car. The success landed him a meeting with Motown Records and a five-record deal. He rereleased KEMISTRY on the Motown label in 2003 and his first hit “Love Calls” soared to #1 on Urban Adult Contemporary charts and continues to be played to this day as an undisputed classic. More albums and chart-topping hits followed.

Combined, KEM’s five albums have sold in excess of 2.9 million units. In recognition of his singing and songwriting talents, KEM has received three Grammy^® nominations; two NAACP Image Awards; two NAACP Image Awards; two Soul Train Awards and a BET Centric Award.

In addition to his career as an artist, KEM is firmly committed to humanitarian work, founding Mack & Third, Inc., a non-profit organization whose mission is built on the premise that no basic human need should go unmet.

Join us for a morning of wellness. Enjoy outdoor yoga + sound therapy in the beautiful Peace garden of Asheville Salt Cave. This 60minute class includes brain-nourishing breathwork, centering meditation, body opening posture flow and lengthy guided relaxation under a sound bath by Billy Zanski of Skinny Beats. Open to all levels. Bring your own mat if you are able.

After the session, enjoy a walk along the Salt Cave’s outdoor labyrinth and add on a Tarot Reading with Bobbi Rose. To schedule your reading, email Bobbi at [email protected]

For those interested in Tarot Readings: Reverend Bobbi Rose is an experienced tarot reader and spiritual guide with over 20 years of experience. She is passionate about helping individuals gain self-awareness, problem-solving skills, and creative thinking through the power of tarot. Bobbi Rose’s expertise in tarot extends to both personal and business contexts, where she facilitates growth, empowerment, and practical life solutions. Her approach is warm, intuitive, and personalized, ensuring each reading is a transformative and memorable experience.

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Jack’s Bluegrass Brunch kicks off every Sunday at 12 noon — with lively bluegrass tunes courtesy of The Jack of the Wood Bluegrass Brunch Boys from 1-3pm. Sip a Bloody Mary or Mimosa or a warm Irish coffee. Tasty brunch specials alongside our regular menu and 18 taps of rotating craft brews! Sláinte, y’all!

Jack’s long-running Traditional Irish Music Session is the perfect way to enjoy the Celtic-influenced sounds of talented pluckers from all over WNC & further afield! Stop in to enjoy a pint or afternoon Irish coffee with the music! Sláinte!

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

Mondays: Pickin’ in the Park

Enjoy performances by local singer-songwriters in an intimate and relaxed setting. Experience the rich musical heritage of Asheville as talented musicians share their stories and songs.

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

Tuesdays: Hoop Jam

Join the fun with hula hoops and a live DJ. Whether you’re a seasoned hooper or a beginner, this vibrant event invites everyone to dance, spin, and groove to the music in a welcoming and energetic atmosphere.

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Sing songs that celebrate Peace & Community, with Resident Teaching Artist Melissa McKinney. Sing, play, drum, and dance while learning songs from the Justice Choir Songbook.

Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
$15 drop-in class
All ages welcome.

Karaoke Night at Hickory Tavern

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.