Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Tuesday, August 27, 2019
Vance Elementary School and Ben & Jerry’s Art Showcase
Aug 27 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ben & Jerry' s Scoop Shop

There’s more than Chunky Monkey and New York Super Fudge Chunk in downtown Asheville’s Ben & Jerry’s this summer.

Art created by Vance Elementary School fifth grade students of art educator Robbie Lipe is now on display on the brick walls opposite the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. The exhibit depicts the students’ interpretation of the artist Kehinde Wiley and the contemporary portraits he creates inspired by traditional Baroque paintings. It will be featured through the end of the summer.

“Ben & Jerry’s is excited about showcasing art from the community inside our scoop shop,” said general manager Chris Carter. “Making use of our walls to show what local artists are creating complements our social mission — to be actively involved in the places we live and do business. I hope this is the first of many art exhibits on our walls.”

Carter gave all the credit for the exhibit to Ms. Lipe, who teaches kindergarten through 5th-grade students at Vance Elementary. She was named the North Carolina Arts Educators Association “Art Educator of the Year” in 2017-2018.

Ben & Jerry’s is located at 19 Haywood Street. Current hours are Monday-Thursday 12 pm to 10 pm; Friday 12 pm – 11 pm; Saturday 11:30 am – 11 pm; Sunday 11:30 am – 10 pm.

For more information, call Carter at 310-601-6247.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Vance Elementary School and Ben & Jerry’s Art Showcase
Aug 28 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ben & Jerry' s Scoop Shop

There’s more than Chunky Monkey and New York Super Fudge Chunk in downtown Asheville’s Ben & Jerry’s this summer.

Art created by Vance Elementary School fifth grade students of art educator Robbie Lipe is now on display on the brick walls opposite the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. The exhibit depicts the students’ interpretation of the artist Kehinde Wiley and the contemporary portraits he creates inspired by traditional Baroque paintings. It will be featured through the end of the summer.

“Ben & Jerry’s is excited about showcasing art from the community inside our scoop shop,” said general manager Chris Carter. “Making use of our walls to show what local artists are creating complements our social mission — to be actively involved in the places we live and do business. I hope this is the first of many art exhibits on our walls.”

Carter gave all the credit for the exhibit to Ms. Lipe, who teaches kindergarten through 5th-grade students at Vance Elementary. She was named the North Carolina Arts Educators Association “Art Educator of the Year” in 2017-2018.

Ben & Jerry’s is located at 19 Haywood Street. Current hours are Monday-Thursday 12 pm to 10 pm; Friday 12 pm – 11 pm; Saturday 11:30 am – 11 pm; Sunday 11:30 am – 10 pm.

For more information, call Carter at 310-601-6247.

Jangling Sparrows’ ‘Triple Band Bash’
Aug 28 @ 8:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

Fronted by eclectic guitarist-vocalist, Paul Edelman, Jangling Sparrows’ most recent release 140 Nickels was voted a “Best Indie Album” selection by the L.A. Music Critic Awards, who added, “Watch for these guys near the top of the Americana music scene!”. 140 Nickels has received stellar reviews from national publications No Depression, The Alternate Root, Music Connection and more, plus extended national/international airplay.

The group’s latest single “Highway Jawn” was described by Indie Pulse Music as “fun, rich and dynamic…Paul Edelman and Jangling Sparrows take their sound to the limit and bring you into their world, with a country, blues, rock and folk-inspired sound that captures the listener and takes them on a wild hay ride.

Thursday, August 29, 2019
Vance Elementary School and Ben & Jerry’s Art Showcase
Aug 29 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ben & Jerry' s Scoop Shop

There’s more than Chunky Monkey and New York Super Fudge Chunk in downtown Asheville’s Ben & Jerry’s this summer.

Art created by Vance Elementary School fifth grade students of art educator Robbie Lipe is now on display on the brick walls opposite the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. The exhibit depicts the students’ interpretation of the artist Kehinde Wiley and the contemporary portraits he creates inspired by traditional Baroque paintings. It will be featured through the end of the summer.

“Ben & Jerry’s is excited about showcasing art from the community inside our scoop shop,” said general manager Chris Carter. “Making use of our walls to show what local artists are creating complements our social mission — to be actively involved in the places we live and do business. I hope this is the first of many art exhibits on our walls.”

Carter gave all the credit for the exhibit to Ms. Lipe, who teaches kindergarten through 5th-grade students at Vance Elementary. She was named the North Carolina Arts Educators Association “Art Educator of the Year” in 2017-2018.

Ben & Jerry’s is located at 19 Haywood Street. Current hours are Monday-Thursday 12 pm to 10 pm; Friday 12 pm – 11 pm; Saturday 11:30 am – 11 pm; Sunday 11:30 am – 10 pm.

For more information, call Carter at 310-601-6247.

Friday, August 30, 2019
Vance Elementary School and Ben & Jerry’s Art Showcase
Aug 30 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ben & Jerry' s Scoop Shop

There’s more than Chunky Monkey and New York Super Fudge Chunk in downtown Asheville’s Ben & Jerry’s this summer.

Art created by Vance Elementary School fifth grade students of art educator Robbie Lipe is now on display on the brick walls opposite the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. The exhibit depicts the students’ interpretation of the artist Kehinde Wiley and the contemporary portraits he creates inspired by traditional Baroque paintings. It will be featured through the end of the summer.

“Ben & Jerry’s is excited about showcasing art from the community inside our scoop shop,” said general manager Chris Carter. “Making use of our walls to show what local artists are creating complements our social mission — to be actively involved in the places we live and do business. I hope this is the first of many art exhibits on our walls.”

Carter gave all the credit for the exhibit to Ms. Lipe, who teaches kindergarten through 5th-grade students at Vance Elementary. She was named the North Carolina Arts Educators Association “Art Educator of the Year” in 2017-2018.

Ben & Jerry’s is located at 19 Haywood Street. Current hours are Monday-Thursday 12 pm to 10 pm; Friday 12 pm – 11 pm; Saturday 11:30 am – 11 pm; Sunday 11:30 am – 10 pm.

For more information, call Carter at 310-601-6247.

Storytime & Art West Asheville Library
Aug 30 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
West Asheville Library

Come join in the fun with stories and songs, then make a hands-on art project just for the little ones! The Education Department staff is visiting public libraries for preschool storytime at locations near your neighborhood.

Storytime & Art takes place at West Asheville Library on second Thursdays.

Our program for preschool-aged students accompanied by an adult is at a library near you! During the school year, come join in the fun with stories and songs, then make a hands-on art project just for the little ones.

Saturday, August 31, 2019
Exploring Appalachia (Day Trip Package)
Aug 31 @ 8:30 am – 6:30 pm
Hickory Nut Gap Farm

Discover the beauty of the Appalachia’s both wild and rural. Your day begins with the expansive views of Chimney Rock State Park where your group is welcome to enjoy one of the many leisure or intensive hiking trails on the property. Lunch at the award-winning Old Rock Cafe is included with this package to enjoy at your leisure after 11am. At 2pm, join the park’s animal educators for the Animal Encounter, an interactive experience where you can touch, feel, and learn about the wildlife at the park. After meeting the animals of the wild, your group will drive an easy 20 minutes North up 74A for the evening portion of your day trip.

Starting at 4pm, your evening encounter begins with an in-depth tour of the farm’s history and agricultural model along with a meet-and-greet of our farm animals. Choose our standard top-tier tour or upgrade to a horseback ride for an intimate farm experience. Immediately following the tour, your group will be treated to a plated Farm-to-Fork meal prepared by our expert catering chef including an adult beverage of your choice. Finish the day with engaging conversations and gorgeous long-range views as the sun sets.

Vance Elementary School and Ben & Jerry’s Art Showcase
Aug 31 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ben & Jerry' s Scoop Shop

There’s more than Chunky Monkey and New York Super Fudge Chunk in downtown Asheville’s Ben & Jerry’s this summer.

Art created by Vance Elementary School fifth grade students of art educator Robbie Lipe is now on display on the brick walls opposite the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. The exhibit depicts the students’ interpretation of the artist Kehinde Wiley and the contemporary portraits he creates inspired by traditional Baroque paintings. It will be featured through the end of the summer.

“Ben & Jerry’s is excited about showcasing art from the community inside our scoop shop,” said general manager Chris Carter. “Making use of our walls to show what local artists are creating complements our social mission — to be actively involved in the places we live and do business. I hope this is the first of many art exhibits on our walls.”

Carter gave all the credit for the exhibit to Ms. Lipe, who teaches kindergarten through 5th-grade students at Vance Elementary. She was named the North Carolina Arts Educators Association “Art Educator of the Year” in 2017-2018.

Ben & Jerry’s is located at 19 Haywood Street. Current hours are Monday-Thursday 12 pm to 10 pm; Friday 12 pm – 11 pm; Saturday 11:30 am – 11 pm; Sunday 11:30 am – 10 pm.

For more information, call Carter at 310-601-6247.

Fall Festival Kick-off and BBQ Menu Launch Hickory Nut Gap Farm
Aug 31 @ 4:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Hickory Nut Gap Farm

September and October are a special time of year at the farm. Beginning Labor Day weekend, we welcome guests to experience the fall through our many on-site activities:

– Hay Rides
– Baby Farm Animals
– Bouncy House
– Kiddie Cart Rides
– Horseback Rides
– Pumpkin picking
– Apple Tasting and picking
– Corn Maze
– Lawn Games
– Trike Track
– Scavenger Hunt
– Corn Pit

Ticket price includes cost of fall admission, dinner*, rides, and entertainment.  Horseback rides are separate and will be scheduled at time of arrival based on availability.

*Adult Plate= 1 Meat, 2 Sides, Bread, Tea/Water
Child Plate = 1 Meat, 1 Side, Bread, Tea/Water

Tryon Resort’s “Saturday Night Lights”
Aug 31 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tryon International Equestrian Center

Join us for “Saturday Night Lights,” a family-friendly event at Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC, happening every Saturday evening May through October featuring FREE carousel rides, pony rides, bounce house, face painting, entertainers and live music, plus horse show competition. General admission and parking are also free and open to the public. With onsite dining options, concessions, shopping, and lodging, come for the night or for a vacation getaway! Learn more at Tryon.com/SNL.

Phone: 828-863-1000

Email: [email protected]

53rd Season of Shindig On the Green!
Aug 31 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Pack Square Park

Shindig on the Green, free outdoor concert in downtown Asheville

Bring your instruments, families, friends, lawn chairs and blankets and join us for good times at the Bascom Lamar Lunsford Stage. In 2019 Shindig on the Green, which features a stage show and informal jam sessions around the park, continues at its original location — formerly known as City County Plaza, now transformed into the new Pack Square Park. Locals and visitors alike come together downtown “along about sundown,” or at 7:00pm for those who wear a watch, until 10:00p.m. Concessions are available. Come experience the beautiful music and dance traditions of Southern Appalachia on a summer evening in the mountains.

Sandi Patty
Aug 31 @ 7:30 pm
Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts

As one of the most highly acclaimed performers of our time with five Grammy awards, four Billboard Music Awards, three platinum records, five gold records, and eleven million units sold, Sandi Patty is simply known as The Voice. Sandi is the most awarded female vocalist in contemporary Christian music history, with 40 Dove Awards. She was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2004 and as an Indiana Living Legend in 2007 and has released over 30 albums. “I am grateful for the many opportunities for God has given in my life and for how He has allowed me to spread my wings,” says Sandi. “Singing is my way to tell my story of hope, life, and love.” Sandi and her husband, Don, have eight children and currently reside in Oklahoma City, OK.

Sunday, September 1, 2019
Happy Valley Fiddlers Convention Lenor NC Labor Day Weekend
Sep 1 all-day
Jones Farm

The Caldwell Arts Council invites you to experience a perfect Labor Day Weekend on the banks of the Yadkin River, surrounded by mountain music, dance, food, and beautiful scenery.

 

Festival fun begins at 7 p.m. Friday, featuring a community dance with mountain music, cake walks, open caller mic & more.

 

Saturday is packed with great entertainment! Eight categories of music competitions begin at 10 a.m. on the main stage.   The Youth JAM Tent offers performances by talented young musicians. Non-music and children’s activities include hayrides, storytelling, children’s crafts, and rock stacking in the river.

 

The weekend concludes with a Sunday concert starting at 11 a.m. featuring a lineup of musicians including Piney Woods Boys, Shelby Rae Moore Band, Strictly Clean and Decent, the Burnett Sisters, The Harris Brothers, and the Jeff Little Trio.  The Youth JAM tent will host workshops in fiddle, banjo, guitar, and storytelling.

 

When was the last time you had the privilege of sitting on the banks of a mountain river with music echoing throughout the hills around you?  Come for a day, or camp for the weekend.

Kids Quiet Play Session Inside the Salt Cave
Sep 1 @ 9:00 am – 9:45 am
Asheville's Therapeutic Salt Cave and Spa

Spend some time with your family detoxing naturally in the Salt Cave. Adults $25, 4-12 years old $15, 3 and younger are free.

Jack of the Wood : Sunday-Irish Session
Sep 1 @ 3:00 pm
Jack of the Wood

 

Jack of the Wood : Sunday-Irish Session 

Sundays

1 till who knows when?

Traditional Irish music is kept alive at Jack of the Wood with our unplugged Sunday session.

Jack of the Wood

95 Patton ave

Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 252.5445

http://www.jackofthewood.com/

Saved By The 90s Orange Peel
Sep 1 @ 9:00 pm
The Orange Peel

Ages 18+

If the 90s is more your speed, join us Sunday for Saved by the 90s! Saved by the 90s is the highest-quality, longest-running live music 90s party on Earth! You might here Ace of Base’s “The Sign”, Weezer’s “Undone (Sweater Song),” Notorious B.I.G.’s “Mo’ Money Mo’ Problems” or maybe a hit from The Cranberries, Rage Against the Machine or Sugar Ray. The only question is what to wear: a full-blown denim ensemble top to bottom a la Britney and Justin? Grunge throw-back gear, featuring Docs and flannel? How about a preppy business-casual plaid skirt suit with knee socks like Cher in “Clueless?” The possibilities are endless! Just make sure to get your crew together and we’ll see you Sunday night!
Wednesday, September 4, 2019
Boris at The Orange Peel
Sep 4 @ 9:00 pm
The Orange Peel

Ages 18+

Japanese metal band Boris returns to the Peel, after last playing in support of their ground-breaking album, Pink, over a decade ago. Their sound has journeyed from metal, drone, pop, noise, punk and shoegaze, but one thing is for sure: their live shows will be loud and heavy.

Friday, September 6, 2019
North Carolina Mountain State Fair Sept. 6-15
Sep 6 all-day
WNC Agricultural Center

NC Mountain State Fair

The big North Carolina Mountain State Fair in Asheville is the official “state fair” of the western part of NC. More than 180,000 people attend the 10-day event that celebrates our people, agriculture, art and tradition. It’s fun for all ages, with plenty of exhibits, animals, food, rides and more. The fair is held at the Western North Carolina Agriculture Center, near the Asheville Regional Airport (I-26 East, exit 40). It’s a big place, so wear comfy walking shoes and allow time to see it all. Tip: Bring cash since credit card use is limited.

Hours

  • Friday: Gates open 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close 1 AM
  • Saturdays: Gates open 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close Midnight
  • 1st Sunday: Gates open 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close 11 PM
  • 2nd Sunday (Closing Night): Gates open at 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close 9 PM
  • Monday-Thursday: Gates open at 3 PM; Rides open 4 PM, close 11 PM

Parking
FREE parking is available on fairground property and satellite property. Parking is located on Highway 280 at Gate 6. Satellite parking is located 1 mile South of Gate 6 (follow the signs) with free bus transportation to the fairgrounds (shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes).

Oath And Honor CD Release Show with Amnesis, A World Of Lies, and Fools Generation
Sep 6 @ 7:00 pm
The Orange Peel

Saturday, September 7, 2019
Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra – American Icons
Sep 7 all-day
Blue Ridge Community College Concert Hall

Featuring Kathryn Brown, pianist

Revel in the melodies, magic, and memories of American musical icons. Inspiration from our southern mountains, New York’s jazz clubs, and the coastline of a summer in Maine provide the muse for classical, jazz, and Broadway classics. Join us to celebrate our country’s rich classical and popular musical heritage. We’ll throw in a bit of blues and rock-n-roll, too!

Aaron Copland – Appalachian Spring

George Gershwin – Rhapsody in Blue

Rodgers & Hammerstein – Orchestral Highlights from Carousel

Plus American Originals – Jazz, Blues, and Rock-n-Roll

North Carolina Mountain State Fair Sept. 6-15
Sep 7 all-day
WNC Agricultural Center

NC Mountain State Fair

The big North Carolina Mountain State Fair in Asheville is the official “state fair” of the western part of NC. More than 180,000 people attend the 10-day event that celebrates our people, agriculture, art and tradition. It’s fun for all ages, with plenty of exhibits, animals, food, rides and more. The fair is held at the Western North Carolina Agriculture Center, near the Asheville Regional Airport (I-26 East, exit 40). It’s a big place, so wear comfy walking shoes and allow time to see it all. Tip: Bring cash since credit card use is limited.

Hours

  • Friday: Gates open 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close 1 AM
  • Saturdays: Gates open 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close Midnight
  • 1st Sunday: Gates open 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close 11 PM
  • 2nd Sunday (Closing Night): Gates open at 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close 9 PM
  • Monday-Thursday: Gates open at 3 PM; Rides open 4 PM, close 11 PM

Parking
FREE parking is available on fairground property and satellite property. Parking is located on Highway 280 at Gate 6. Satellite parking is located 1 mile South of Gate 6 (follow the signs) with free bus transportation to the fairgrounds (shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes).

Call For Sculptors – Sculpture Celebration September 7th
Sep 7 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
T.H. Broyhill Walking Park

SEPT - SCULPTURE CELEBRATION

Caldwell Arts Council announces the 34th annual Sculpture Celebration in Lenoir, NC on Saturday September 7, 2019 at the T.H. Broyhill Walking Park in Lenoir, North Carolina.

Sculptors are invited to bring up to 3 sculptures for this one-day competition for $11,000 in cash awards, along with potential sales and commissions.

This annual event attracts sculptors and buyers from the eastern United States to Lenoir, North Carolina. Last year, over 4,000 people attended the family-friendly celebration.

Early registration discounts are available.

Asheville Fairy Hair at Hickory Nut Gap Farm Renaissance Faire
Sep 7 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Hickory Nut Gap Farm

?Saturday, September 7th 11am-6:30pm
✨ASHEVILLE✨
Hickory Nut Gap Farm Renaissance Faire
57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview, North Carolina 28730
***PLEASE NOTE THERE IS AN ENTRANCE FEE***
Sign up here to reserve your spot and for more information:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B044BA5AB2FA1FA7-hickory3

The Renaissance Faire at the Farm
Sep 7 @ 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Hickory Nut Gap Farm

Hear ye hear ye! Our most popular annual event is upon us. A celebration of feasting, costume and history. Join us this year for:
 
– A fantastic feast featuring our farm raised meats!
– Sword Fighting Demo by Warriors of Ash HEMA School!
– Amazing beer from UpCountry Brewing (with a special HNG Beer)
– King & Queen of the Faire Costume Contest with fabulous prizes; enter contest upon check in, first 6 in each category to sign up can compete!
– Tons of local vendors, craftsmen and artisans!
 
PLUS, enjoy all of our fall festivities included in the ticket price!
 
PRESALE (ONLINE) TICKETS:
$12 for ages 13+
$5 for kids 5-12
Kids 4 and under FREE!
 
DAY OF TICKETS**:
$14 for ages 13+
$9 for kids 5-12
kids 4 and under FREE!
 
**This event has sold out every year the day of. We strongly suggest purchasing pre-sale tickets to guarantee entry.
Renaissance Faire at the Farm
Sep 7 @ 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Hickory Nut Gap Farm

Attention all knights, pages, jesters, jousters, kings, queens, princesses and princes! Get your costumes ready, and come out and have some fun on September 7th! Boys, girls, moms, dads, come one, come all to the First Annual Renaissance Fair at the Farm. We have all sorts of fun demonstrations planned, such as fencing, sword fighting, and juggling. Other activities to be announced, including a costume contest!

Tryon Resort’s “Saturday Night Lights”
Sep 7 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tryon International Equestrian Center

Join us for “Saturday Night Lights,” a family-friendly event at Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC, happening every Saturday evening May through October featuring FREE carousel rides, pony rides, bounce house, face painting, entertainers and live music, plus horse show competition. General admission and parking are also free and open to the public. With onsite dining options, concessions, shopping, and lodging, come for the night or for a vacation getaway! Learn more at Tryon.com/SNL.

Phone: 828-863-1000

Email: [email protected]

The Steeldrivers
Sep 7 @ 7:30 pm
Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts

They say the only thing consistent about change is well, that it changes. Whether through design or destiny, that’s a precept the SteelDrivers know all too well. Throughout their career, one that encompasses four highly acclaimed albums and any number of awards and accolades- the band has demonstrated the ability to adapt to change with unwavering persistence. Theirs is a lingering legacy defined by quality and consistency. It’s one in which they’ve never stopped looking forward, successfully marshalling their resources for wherever that trajectory takes them. Ultimately, it’s all about the music. “Our dedication and determination remain intact,” says singer, songwriter and fiddler Tammy Rogers. “We honor our older music by always putting our focus on the songs. Some people describe our music as being bluegrass based, but the fact is, we’re not bound to any one regimen. I liken us to what the Rolling Stones would sound like if they played banjos, fiddles and mandolins ” it’s that rock-n-roll edge played on traditional instruments. I don’t know if that’s true, but we are primarily a band that’s centered around songwriting and also just happens to have a bluegrass background.” That persistent push could be called the key to SteelDrivers’ success. Each step in their journey has created a new chapter, one that finds them building on the past but consolidating their strengths as they build for the future.
Ticket Prices: $23, $25, $28

Penny & Sparrow Caroline Spence
Sep 7 @ 9:00 pm
The Orange Peel

Join us this Saturday, September 7th, for Penny & Sparrow. The acoustic duo, which consists of Kyle Jahnke and Andy Baxter, will play a seated show which will highlight their haunting harmonies, storytelling song-writing style, and a “Simon & Garfunkel-meets-Bon Iver musical vibe,” according to NPR Music.  

“Almost everything changed for us in these last two years,” says Andy Baxter, one half of the acclaimed duo Penny & Sparrow. “It was a painful experience in a lot of ways, but it was also a joyful one.”

Joy and pain walk hand in hand on ‘Finch,’ Penny & Sparrow’s magnificent sixth album. Written during their first major break from the road in years, the record finds the band reckoning with a prolonged period of intense personal transformation, a profound awakening that altered their perceptions of masculinity, sex, religion, divorce, friendship, vanity, purpose, and, perhaps most importantly, self. Deeply vulnerable and boldly cinematic, the resulting songs blur the lines between indie-folk and alt-pop, with dense string arrangements and atmospheric production underpinning soaring melodies and airtight harmonies from Baxter and his longtime musical partner, Kyle Jahnke.

Sunday, September 8, 2019
North Carolina Mountain State Fair Sept. 6-15
Sep 8 all-day
WNC Agricultural Center

NC Mountain State Fair

The big North Carolina Mountain State Fair in Asheville is the official “state fair” of the western part of NC. More than 180,000 people attend the 10-day event that celebrates our people, agriculture, art and tradition. It’s fun for all ages, with plenty of exhibits, animals, food, rides and more. The fair is held at the Western North Carolina Agriculture Center, near the Asheville Regional Airport (I-26 East, exit 40). It’s a big place, so wear comfy walking shoes and allow time to see it all. Tip: Bring cash since credit card use is limited.

Hours

  • Friday: Gates open 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close 1 AM
  • Saturdays: Gates open 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close Midnight
  • 1st Sunday: Gates open 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close 11 PM
  • 2nd Sunday (Closing Night): Gates open at 9 AM; Rides open 10 AM, close 9 PM
  • Monday-Thursday: Gates open at 3 PM; Rides open 4 PM, close 11 PM

Parking
FREE parking is available on fairground property and satellite property. Parking is located on Highway 280 at Gate 6. Satellite parking is located 1 mile South of Gate 6 (follow the signs) with free bus transportation to the fairgrounds (shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes).

Kids Quiet Play Session Inside the Salt Cave
Sep 8 @ 9:00 am – 9:45 am
Asheville's Therapeutic Salt Cave and Spa

Spend some time with your family detoxing naturally in the Salt Cave. Adults $25, 4-12 years old $15, 3 and younger are free.