Rooted in the Carolina foothills, the Night in the Country experience transforms the world-renowned Tryon International Equestrian Center into your next great country tradition.
CLICK HERE to learn more about this 3-day country music festival!
Calendar of Events
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.
Friday, August
26, 2022
Night In The Country Carolinas Music Festival
NIGHT IN THE COUNTRY CAROLINAS
Night in the Country Music Festivals returns to the Carolina foothills August 25-27, 2022. This Pure Country experience brings some of country music’s hottest artists to the world-renowned Tryon Resort in Mill Spring, North Carolina.
Night in the Country Carolinas features three nights of country music with performances by Darius Rucker, Jon Pardi, Dierks Bentley, Jimmie Allen, Jameson Rogers, Ashley McBryde, and much more! During the day, the festival has a wide range of one-of-a-kind events and attractions including Bands, Brews & Que, the Craft Beer Experience, Grapeland, the Beer Relay, Tournament of Champions, and more. The festival also features live music during the day and an outdoor nightlife experience after the concerts.
The festival takes place on festival grounds unlike any other. Tryon Resort is a 1,600-acre facility featuring 13 rings, onsite luxury cabins and an inn, RV pads with full hook-ups, and wide-open grounds and arenas that have the potential to host the largest music festivals and events in the world. The grounds also boast several on-site restaurants, the Silo Bar, a general store, other shops, and a carousel.
Passes and accommodations for NITC Carolinas are on sale now.
Explore the festival experience and book your next great country tradition at https://nightinthecountrycarolinas.org/
Saturday, August
27, 2022
LEAF Solid Gold 50th Festival: Legends of Africa
Night In The Country Carolinas Music Festival
East End/Valley Street Community Heritage Festival
NIGHT IN THE COUNTRY CAROLINAS
Listen. Dance. Feel the music and that will answer, “Why the “Legends of Africa?” Africa is the core and essence of where so much of humanity and music has originated. It has forever influenced music and cultures throughout the world with the diaspora of its people. Over the years, LEAF has connected deeply with many African artists and presented artists from 32 of the 54 countries on the continent. These bonds and our love of Africa, bring us back the magic of not just the continent, but its people, our family. So join us for a true gathering of friends and the rekindling of traditions that have made the past 27 years of LEAF memorable.
“The shortest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.”
Masankho Banda from Malawi.
Who is an African Legend you admire? Chinobay of Uganda said he’s been inspired by the music he listened to during Apartheid. He spoke of Miriam Makeba (nicknamed Momma Africa) a South African singer, songwriter and activist whose music was socially responsible and carried so much power for the people. What makes you a Legend is the MESSAGE you carry to the world.
In flow with Chinobay’s reflection, the artwork is a masterpiece created by legendary artist Trek 6 inspired by his work in South Africa while producing a documentary. Trek spoke about how the sunrises and sunsets in Africa were surreal, thus he began with a beautiful sun design. A wall of drums in South Africa, where they host people from different tribes bringing food, song and art inspired the drums. In Trek’s own words, “Africa is cosmic, colorful, and the center to our past. From it we radiated.”We are honored by his artistic vision.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend PLUS Pass
$175.00 – $203.00
October 20-23, 2022 *Must be purchased by LEAF Member* Thursday 4:30pm to Sunday 7pm including overnight tent camping.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend Pass
$135.00 – $159.00
October 21-23, 2022 Fri 9am – Sun 7pm. Includes overnight camping
-
Sale!
Festival Community Pass
$95.00 – $105.00
Fri 4:30pm – 2am, Sat 9am – 2am, Sun 9am – 7pm. No overnights / camping. No Thu. access. Must have alternate overnight accommodations nearby
-
Sale!
Festival Saturday Pass
$53.00 – $59.00
Saturday, October 22, 2022, 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM. No overnight camping.
Night in the Country Music Festivals returns to the Carolina foothills August 25-27, 2022. This Pure Country experience brings some of country music’s hottest artists to the world-renowned Tryon Resort in Mill Spring, North Carolina.
Night in the Country Carolinas features three nights of country music with performances by Darius Rucker, Jon Pardi, Dierks Bentley, Jimmie Allen, Jameson Rogers, Ashley McBryde, and much more! During the day, the festival has a wide range of one-of-a-kind events and attractions including Bands, Brews & Que, the Craft Beer Experience, Grapeland, the Beer Relay, Tournament of Champions, and more. The festival also features live music during the day and an outdoor nightlife experience after the concerts.
The festival takes place on festival grounds unlike any other. Tryon Resort is a 1,600-acre facility featuring 13 rings, onsite luxury cabins and an inn, RV pads with full hook-ups, and wide-open grounds and arenas that have the potential to host the largest music festivals and events in the world. The grounds also boast several on-site restaurants, the Silo Bar, a general store, other shops, and a carousel.
Passes and accommodations for NITC Carolinas are on sale now.
Explore the festival experience and book your next great country tradition at https://nightinthecountrycarolinas.org/
The East End/Valley Street Community Heritage Festival
We Rise As One! The 2022 East End/Valley Street Community Heritage Festival will take place in MLK Park, 50 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive in Asheville on Saturday, August 27 from 10am to 10pm. There will be live music, vendors, food trucks, and a children’s area (open from 11am to 8pm) which will include inflatables, face painting, balloon twisting (from 1pm to 3pm), crafts, and games. The East End/Valley Street Community Heritage Festival Parade on MLK Drive starts at 10am on Saturday from the corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Alexander Drive to MLK Park. This year’s festival is in honor of the late Mack Moore of M&M Heating & Cooling. East End/Valley Street is Asheville’s oldest African-American neighborhood. This is an alcohol free, family friendly festival! Come celebrate with us! Everyone is welcome!
Featuring:
The Gospel Sensations 12pm to 1pm
Chalwa Mountain Reggae 1:15pm to 2:15pm
WestSound 2:30pm to 3:15pm
Virtuous 3:15pm to 3:45pm
Delta House Jazz Band 3:45pm to 4:10pm
Free Flow Band 4:30pm to 5:15pm
The Stanley Baird Group 5:30pm to 6:30pm
ReggaeInfinity 6:45pm to 7:45pm
Hypnotic Band 8:00pm to 8:45pm
Uptown Swagga Band 9pm to 10pm
*Times subject to change
Parade at 10am:
Asheville Tourists Mascot
Drums Up Guns Down
The Kuumba Watoto Dancers
The Zeta Debutante Queen & Court
Majorette Dolls of Asheville
Bubble Master
Carver High School Band
Hood Huggers Tour
Asheville Motorcycle Club
Rooted in the Carolina foothills, the Night in the Country experience transforms the world-renowned Tryon International Equestrian Center into your next great country tradition.
CLICK HERE to learn more about this 3-day country music festival!
Sunday, August
28, 2022
NIGHT IN THE COUNTRY CAROLINAS
Rooted in the Carolina foothills, the Night in the Country experience transforms the world-renowned Tryon International Equestrian Center into your next great country tradition.
CLICK HERE to learn more about this 3-day country music festival!
Friday, September
2, 2022
EARL SCRUGGS MUSIC FESTIVAL
The Earl Scruggs Music Festival honors the life and legacy of American icon and musical legend, Earl Scruggs, who was born in the small Flint Hill community of nearby Cleveland County, NC. It was here in this region, surrounded by a musical family and a host of influences, where Mr. Scruggs laid the foundation for his influential and groundbreaking career. Best known for bringing the “Scruggs style” of playing the 5-string banjo to the world, he crossed musical boundaries and collaborated with artists across musical genres, creating an innovative body of work during his lifetime.
Bringing the best of bluegrass, Americana, and roots music together with fans who have a true appreciation for the music, the Earl Scruggs Music Festival is a multi-day celebration of Mr. Scruggs’ incredible contributions and the rich musical culture of the region.
The Earl Scruggs Music Festival is presented in partnership by the Earl Scruggs Center, a museum and cultural center located in Shelby, NC, and public radio WNCW-FM a flagship roots music station located at Isothermal Community College in Western North Carolina. The inaugural festival will take place Labor Day weekend 2022 at the impressive Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC. This unique venue set at the foot of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains offers onsite camping, lodging, restaurants, experiences, and much more.
CLICK HERE to learn more about Earl Scruggs
Saturday, September
3, 2022
‘4M’ Mountain Makers Mushrooms & Music Festival
LEAF Solid Gold 50th Festival: Legends of Africa
EARL SCRUGGS MUSIC FESTIVAL
Celebration and education of Blue Ridge Mountain culture, arts, & nature.
jacksonartsmarket.com for more information
Listen. Dance. Feel the music and that will answer, “Why the “Legends of Africa?” Africa is the core and essence of where so much of humanity and music has originated. It has forever influenced music and cultures throughout the world with the diaspora of its people. Over the years, LEAF has connected deeply with many African artists and presented artists from 32 of the 54 countries on the continent. These bonds and our love of Africa, bring us back the magic of not just the continent, but its people, our family. So join us for a true gathering of friends and the rekindling of traditions that have made the past 27 years of LEAF memorable.
“The shortest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.”
Masankho Banda from Malawi.
Who is an African Legend you admire? Chinobay of Uganda said he’s been inspired by the music he listened to during Apartheid. He spoke of Miriam Makeba (nicknamed Momma Africa) a South African singer, songwriter and activist whose music was socially responsible and carried so much power for the people. What makes you a Legend is the MESSAGE you carry to the world.
In flow with Chinobay’s reflection, the artwork is a masterpiece created by legendary artist Trek 6 inspired by his work in South Africa while producing a documentary. Trek spoke about how the sunrises and sunsets in Africa were surreal, thus he began with a beautiful sun design. A wall of drums in South Africa, where they host people from different tribes bringing food, song and art inspired the drums. In Trek’s own words, “Africa is cosmic, colorful, and the center to our past. From it we radiated.”We are honored by his artistic vision.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend PLUS Pass
$175.00 – $203.00
October 20-23, 2022 *Must be purchased by LEAF Member* Thursday 4:30pm to Sunday 7pm including overnight tent camping.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend Pass
$135.00 – $159.00
October 21-23, 2022 Fri 9am – Sun 7pm. Includes overnight camping
-
Sale!
Festival Community Pass
$95.00 – $105.00
Fri 4:30pm – 2am, Sat 9am – 2am, Sun 9am – 7pm. No overnights / camping. No Thu. access. Must have alternate overnight accommodations nearby
-
Sale!
Festival Saturday Pass
$53.00 – $59.00
Saturday, October 22, 2022, 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM. No overnight camping.
The Earl Scruggs Music Festival honors the life and legacy of American icon and musical legend, Earl Scruggs, who was born in the small Flint Hill community of nearby Cleveland County, NC. It was here in this region, surrounded by a musical family and a host of influences, where Mr. Scruggs laid the foundation for his influential and groundbreaking career. Best known for bringing the “Scruggs style” of playing the 5-string banjo to the world, he crossed musical boundaries and collaborated with artists across musical genres, creating an innovative body of work during his lifetime.
Bringing the best of bluegrass, Americana, and roots music together with fans who have a true appreciation for the music, the Earl Scruggs Music Festival is a multi-day celebration of Mr. Scruggs’ incredible contributions and the rich musical culture of the region.
The Earl Scruggs Music Festival is presented in partnership by the Earl Scruggs Center, a museum and cultural center located in Shelby, NC, and public radio WNCW-FM a flagship roots music station located at Isothermal Community College in Western North Carolina. The inaugural festival will take place Labor Day weekend 2022 at the impressive Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC. This unique venue set at the foot of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains offers onsite camping, lodging, restaurants, experiences, and much more.
CLICK HERE to learn more about Earl Scruggs
Sunday, September
4, 2022
Elks Lodge Apple Breakfast
EARL SCRUGGS MUSIC FESTIVAL
Elks Lodge Apple Breakfast, 7am-12pm, Join Hendersonville Elks Lodge 161 for the 2022 Apple Big Breakfast, which includes
pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, grits, biscuits, gravy, hash brown casserole, apple dessert and a beverage, Proceeds to benefit
the Elks’ Christmas Charity Project, Adult tickets are $9 in advance, $10 at the door; children tickets (6-12 years old) are $6 in
advance, $7.00 at the door; children und
The Earl Scruggs Music Festival honors the life and legacy of American icon and musical legend, Earl Scruggs, who was born in the small Flint Hill community of nearby Cleveland County, NC. It was here in this region, surrounded by a musical family and a host of influences, where Mr. Scruggs laid the foundation for his influential and groundbreaking career. Best known for bringing the “Scruggs style” of playing the 5-string banjo to the world, he crossed musical boundaries and collaborated with artists across musical genres, creating an innovative body of work during his lifetime.
Bringing the best of bluegrass, Americana, and roots music together with fans who have a true appreciation for the music, the Earl Scruggs Music Festival is a multi-day celebration of Mr. Scruggs’ incredible contributions and the rich musical culture of the region.
The Earl Scruggs Music Festival is presented in partnership by the Earl Scruggs Center, a museum and cultural center located in Shelby, NC, and public radio WNCW-FM a flagship roots music station located at Isothermal Community College in Western North Carolina. The inaugural festival will take place Labor Day weekend 2022 at the impressive Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC. This unique venue set at the foot of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains offers onsite camping, lodging, restaurants, experiences, and much more.
CLICK HERE to learn more about Earl Scruggs
Monday, September
5, 2022
North Carolina Apple Festival
The NC Apple Festival will be held on Main Street in downtown Hendersonville, NC over each Labor Day Weekend. It’s a LABOR DAY TRADITION.
Thursday, September
8, 2022
Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic & Feature Comedy at Asheville Pizza
9.8.22 Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company Gameroom (for 18+)
What: Stand up Comedy at Asheville Pizza & Brewing,
When: Thursday 9.8.22. 7:30p-9:30p, doors at 6:30p
Where: Asheville Pizza & Brewing Gameroom, 675 Merrimon Ave, Asheville 28804
Tickets: $13 (available at door or Asheville Pizza website)
Cocktails, taps & menu available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! .
Open mic comics signup at door get 3-5m. [Free entry for performing comics, free pizza at comics table]
[Music before show provided by Buzz Radio Asheville, “All Asheville Music & Comedy, All the Time.”]
Hosted by Blaine Perry
Featuring: Jess Cooley, Julia Macias & Allison Shelnut
We will also be signing people up for the Sweet Sweepstakes for Jubilee Alternative Shelter for Women, please donate items or tix ar sliceoflifecomedy.com or get tix at: https://go.eventgroovefundraising.com/jams/
Saturday, September
10, 2022
LEAF Solid Gold 50th Festival: Legends of Africa
Dirty Dancing Festival of Lake Lure
Dirty Dancing Festival of Lake Lure!
Asheville’s River Arts District Oktoberfest at Hi-Wire
Listen. Dance. Feel the music and that will answer, “Why the “Legends of Africa?” Africa is the core and essence of where so much of humanity and music has originated. It has forever influenced music and cultures throughout the world with the diaspora of its people. Over the years, LEAF has connected deeply with many African artists and presented artists from 32 of the 54 countries on the continent. These bonds and our love of Africa, bring us back the magic of not just the continent, but its people, our family. So join us for a true gathering of friends and the rekindling of traditions that have made the past 27 years of LEAF memorable.
“The shortest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.”
Masankho Banda from Malawi.
Who is an African Legend you admire? Chinobay of Uganda said he’s been inspired by the music he listened to during Apartheid. He spoke of Miriam Makeba (nicknamed Momma Africa) a South African singer, songwriter and activist whose music was socially responsible and carried so much power for the people. What makes you a Legend is the MESSAGE you carry to the world.
In flow with Chinobay’s reflection, the artwork is a masterpiece created by legendary artist Trek 6 inspired by his work in South Africa while producing a documentary. Trek spoke about how the sunrises and sunsets in Africa were surreal, thus he began with a beautiful sun design. A wall of drums in South Africa, where they host people from different tribes bringing food, song and art inspired the drums. In Trek’s own words, “Africa is cosmic, colorful, and the center to our past. From it we radiated.”We are honored by his artistic vision.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend PLUS Pass
$175.00 – $203.00
October 20-23, 2022 *Must be purchased by LEAF Member* Thursday 4:30pm to Sunday 7pm including overnight tent camping.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend Pass
$135.00 – $159.00
October 21-23, 2022 Fri 9am – Sun 7pm. Includes overnight camping
-
Sale!
Festival Community Pass
$95.00 – $105.00
Fri 4:30pm – 2am, Sat 9am – 2am, Sun 9am – 7pm. No overnights / camping. No Thu. access. Must have alternate overnight accommodations nearby
-
Sale!
Festival Saturday Pass
$53.00 – $59.00
Saturday, October 22, 2022, 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM. No overnight camping.
Get into the spirit of the era and step back in time to that unforgettable summer in the Catskills and join us where it all began in the breathtaking mountains of Western North Carolina. Filled with excitement and nostalgia, fans can experience the the moves, music and memories from our all time favorite movie and fancy the chance to channel their inner “Baby & Johnny.”
This year’s one-day festival showcases film-inspired entertainment and activities for all ages that will be treasured with friends and family for a lifetime. You’ll go crazy for Swayze, enjoy some great entertainment, and weep with joy attempting the famous lake lift scene all while keeping the awareness on the fight against Pancreatic Cancer strong.
It’s time to dress up as your favorite character, dust off your Keds, and really shake it down
where Johnny & Baby once did the Mambo!
Only 2500 will be available for this year’s festival so get yours early to ensure entry!
More than 800 tickets were sold in the first week!
Our committee is still in the planning stages, so check back frequently and visit our Facebook page for more information as it becomes available.
Get into the spirit of the era and step back in time to that unforgettable summer in the Catskills and join us where it all began in the breathtaking mountains of Western North Carolina. Filled with excitement and nostalgia, fans can experience the the moves, music and memories from our all time favorite movie and fancy the chance to channel their inner “Baby & Johnny.”
This year’s one-day festival showcases film-inspired entertainment and activities for all ages that will be treasured with friends and family for a lifetime. You’ll go crazy for Swayze, enjoy some great entertainment, and weep with joy attempting the famous lake lift scene all while keeping the awareness on the fight against Pancreatic Cancer strong.
It’s time to dress up as your favorite character, dust off your Keds, and really shake it down
where Johnny & Baby once did the Mambo!
The Chamber of Hickory Nut Gorge is happy to announce the return of the Dirty Dancing Festival of Lake Lure!
This year’s festival will be a ONE-DAY event certain to be “the time of your life!”
Start making your plans to attend the Festival AND participate in the various pre and post-festival activities
being offered at local establishments.
Only 2500 will be available for this year’s festival so get yours early to ensure entry!
More than 800 tickets were sold in the first week!
Our committee is still in the planning stages, so check back frequently and visit our Facebook page for more information as it becomes available
Hi-Wire’s annual Oktoberfest is moving to the River Arts District Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022 games, beer, food, and music.
Monday, September
12, 2022
20th Annual Arby’s Mountain Child Advocacy Center Golf Classic
Join us at Kenmure Country Club for our 20th Annual Arby’s Golf Classic! Enjoy a golf day on this beautiful course with some friendly competition for a great cause. Your participation raises vital funding for our mission and helps every one of our children!
Saturday, September
17, 2022
LEAF Solid Gold 50th Festival: Legends of Africa
Toss for a Cause Cornhole Tournament
Art in Autumn 2022
Of the Universe: A Recital Benefiting Literacy Together
Playing for our Partners – Music at the Old Rock Cafe
Listen. Dance. Feel the music and that will answer, “Why the “Legends of Africa?” Africa is the core and essence of where so much of humanity and music has originated. It has forever influenced music and cultures throughout the world with the diaspora of its people. Over the years, LEAF has connected deeply with many African artists and presented artists from 32 of the 54 countries on the continent. These bonds and our love of Africa, bring us back the magic of not just the continent, but its people, our family. So join us for a true gathering of friends and the rekindling of traditions that have made the past 27 years of LEAF memorable.
“The shortest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.”
Masankho Banda from Malawi.
Who is an African Legend you admire? Chinobay of Uganda said he’s been inspired by the music he listened to during Apartheid. He spoke of Miriam Makeba (nicknamed Momma Africa) a South African singer, songwriter and activist whose music was socially responsible and carried so much power for the people. What makes you a Legend is the MESSAGE you carry to the world.
In flow with Chinobay’s reflection, the artwork is a masterpiece created by legendary artist Trek 6 inspired by his work in South Africa while producing a documentary. Trek spoke about how the sunrises and sunsets in Africa were surreal, thus he began with a beautiful sun design. A wall of drums in South Africa, where they host people from different tribes bringing food, song and art inspired the drums. In Trek’s own words, “Africa is cosmic, colorful, and the center to our past. From it we radiated.”We are honored by his artistic vision.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend PLUS Pass
$175.00 – $203.00
October 20-23, 2022 *Must be purchased by LEAF Member* Thursday 4:30pm to Sunday 7pm including overnight tent camping.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend Pass
$135.00 – $159.00
October 21-23, 2022 Fri 9am – Sun 7pm. Includes overnight camping
-
Sale!
Festival Community Pass
$95.00 – $105.00
Fri 4:30pm – 2am, Sat 9am – 2am, Sun 9am – 7pm. No overnights / camping. No Thu. access. Must have alternate overnight accommodations nearby
-
Sale!
Festival Saturday Pass
$53.00 – $59.00
Saturday, October 22, 2022, 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM. No overnight camping.
The 15th annual Art in Autumn Outdoor Arts and Crafts Festival takes place on September 17th, 2022.
This much loved event is held on Main Street in Downtown Weaverville, North Carolina.
Presenting “Of The Universe: A Recital Benefiting Literacy Together,” a vocal recital to raise awareness for Literacy Together (www.lit-together.org). Originally conceived as an event in partnership with First Presbyterian Church of Asheville’s Mission Committee, this program will emphasize sacred text settings of a historically significant nature to bring attention to the fantastic and vital work done by Literacy Together, whose mission is to transform lives and communities through the power of literacy.
The program includes Harmonia Sacra selections by Henry Purcell, Spanisches Liederbuch selections by Hugo Wolf, an oratorio aria from George Frideric Handel’s La resurrezione, art songs by Ned Rorem and Libby Larson, and selections from Benjamin Britten’s The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35. The music program should last one hour with a reception afterward.
This event is *FREE* to the public, but all attendees are kindly asked to donate any amount to Literacy Together as they can. Please share this event with anyone you think may be interested!
Performing artists are as follows:
Casey Edwards, tenor
Barbara Weiss, harpsichord
Jeremy Roberts, organ
Katherine Haig, cello
David Berger, piano
Live music returns to the Old Rock Cafe with our new music series: Playing for our Partners. Come enjoy an evening of good food and good music on the deck overlooking the Rocky Broad River and support a good cause, too. A percentage of proceeds from each event in the series will benefit one of our local non-profit partners. The September event will feature musician Mike Pauer and support Appalachian Wildlife Refuge.
Thursday, September
22, 2022
Pups + Pints
Bring your furry friends for a rooftop {paw}ty benefiting the Asheville Humane Society on Thursday, September 22nd from 5-7pm at the Pack Square Parking Garage off 26 Biltmore Avenue! This free event will include multiple breweries with beer tastings, live music, caricature art, pet portraits and more!
Saturday, September
24, 2022
LEAF Solid Gold 50th Festival: Legends of Africa
Welcoming WNC Procession
Mountain Heritage Day
2022 Blue Ridge Pride Festival: Inclusion Y’All!
Listen. Dance. Feel the music and that will answer, “Why the “Legends of Africa?” Africa is the core and essence of where so much of humanity and music has originated. It has forever influenced music and cultures throughout the world with the diaspora of its people. Over the years, LEAF has connected deeply with many African artists and presented artists from 32 of the 54 countries on the continent. These bonds and our love of Africa, bring us back the magic of not just the continent, but its people, our family. So join us for a true gathering of friends and the rekindling of traditions that have made the past 27 years of LEAF memorable.
“The shortest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.”
Masankho Banda from Malawi.
Who is an African Legend you admire? Chinobay of Uganda said he’s been inspired by the music he listened to during Apartheid. He spoke of Miriam Makeba (nicknamed Momma Africa) a South African singer, songwriter and activist whose music was socially responsible and carried so much power for the people. What makes you a Legend is the MESSAGE you carry to the world.
In flow with Chinobay’s reflection, the artwork is a masterpiece created by legendary artist Trek 6 inspired by his work in South Africa while producing a documentary. Trek spoke about how the sunrises and sunsets in Africa were surreal, thus he began with a beautiful sun design. A wall of drums in South Africa, where they host people from different tribes bringing food, song and art inspired the drums. In Trek’s own words, “Africa is cosmic, colorful, and the center to our past. From it we radiated.”We are honored by his artistic vision.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend PLUS Pass
$175.00 – $203.00
October 20-23, 2022 *Must be purchased by LEAF Member* Thursday 4:30pm to Sunday 7pm including overnight tent camping.
-
Sale!
Festival Weekend Pass
$135.00 – $159.00
October 21-23, 2022 Fri 9am – Sun 7pm. Includes overnight camping
-
Sale!
Festival Community Pass
$95.00 – $105.00
Fri 4:30pm – 2am, Sat 9am – 2am, Sun 9am – 7pm. No overnights / camping. No Thu. access. Must have alternate overnight accommodations nearby
-
Sale!
Festival Saturday Pass
$53.00 – $59.00
Saturday, October 22, 2022, 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM. No overnight camping.
On Saturday, September 24, we will renew our annual walk for a a vision of a community that welcomes and celebrates all.
This walk is open to everyone: individuals, families, friends, neighborhoods, churches, activist groups, social clubs, companies, sports teams.
We believe that the overwhelming majority of people and organizations in western North Carolina aspire to a community that is welcoming. We need to make ourselves seen and heard.
This is not your typical Pride Parade. This is a gathering of ALL in our community who share a vision of inclusivity.
Join us as we walk to Pack Square and into the heart of the festival. Whether you are a business, a group, a congregation, community, family, or a pack of friends join us on this half-mile walk. Let the world know that in WNC, we share a simple ideal: Inclusion, Ya’ll!
How to Participate
One person per team should register to walk. Estimate your number of walkers while registering (you can update later).
Gather your team. Wear your organization’s tee shirts, uniforms, hats, buttons. Create your own posters. Need ideas? Our team is eager to help. ([email protected]).
Bring a sign or banner with your logo or an aspirational message.
Show up at between 9:00 am and 9:30 am at the parking lot across from 23 Grove Street, Asheville
.
General Activities
Festival Activities – Discover all our vendors for this year including the juried arts and crafts show, food vendors, and local non-profit organizations. There are over 120 vendors with thousands of unique items to choose from.
Kids Activities – Family fun for all ages! Take a wagon ride, learn traditional crafts, try your hand at old-time mountain skills, learn new dances and more. Be sure to stop by the Children’s Tent for activities.
Cherokee Games – One of the most important elements of Mountain Heritage Day is the influence and culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The annual stickball demonstration is a highly ritualized contest you won’t want to miss.
Andy Shaw Ford Classic Car Show – They just don’t make them like they used to! Showcase your classic automobile (25 years or older) in Mountain Heritage Day’s Andy Shaw Ford Classic Car Show. Visitors can stroll amongst the beautiful machines and cast votes for their favorites.
Music – Bluegrass, Acoustic, Old-Time, Roots, Country, Mountain Swing, and Gospel, just to name a few. With two stages and dozens of performers, you’ll want to dance the day away.
5K Race – The 5k Race is organized and hosted by the students at Western Carolina University Sport Management program. The money that is raised will go to help fund the Sport Management Association Scholarship.
McNeely’s Chainsaw Competition – Try your hand at this activity! The competition will be carried out in four categories: Homeowner, Box Stock, Stock Appearing, and Open. There will be ten classes of saws:
- Class “E”
- Class “D”
- Class “C”
- Class “B”
- Class “A”
- Class “AA”
- “Hot Saw”
- AA Modified Motorcycle Parts
- Cross Cut Saw (two person teams)
- One-man Bucking Saw
There is a fee for each entry. Find rules here.
Mountain Heritage Skills, Crafts and Historical Demonstrations
- Ramona Lossiah, Cherokee basketry
- Jeff Gottlieb, Kudzu Crafts and Baskets
- Louise, Butch, and George Edward Goings, Cherokee Basketry, Woodcarving, Flint Knapping
- Brock Martin, Blacksmith
- Nora Mosrie, Cornshuck Crafts
- William Rogers, Coppersmith
- Dede Styles, Natural Dyeing
- Nate Darnell, Tractor Rides
- Nathan Woods and Ethan Fortner: Horse and Mule Demonstrations
- Richard Tichich Quilt Making
- Kevin Fountain, Corn Grinding and Hit and Miss Engines
Stages, Tents & Stickball
Harrah’s Blue Ridge Stage
10:00 AM – Summer Brooke and Brayden
11:00 AM – Whitewater Bluegrass Company
12:00 PM – Apple Blossom Cloggers
12:15 PM – Mountain Heritage Award presentation
12:45 PM – The Queen Family
1:30 PM – Phil and Gaye Johnson
2:15 PM – The Grascals
3:30 PM – The Bailey Mountain Cloggers
3:45 PM – The Merle Monroe Band
Children’s Tent
10:30 AM – Pressley Girls
11:30 AM – Phil and Gaye Johnson
12:00 PM – Blue Ridge Junior Appalachian Musicians
12:30 PM – Bailey Mountain Cloggers
1:00 PM – Dietz Family
1:30 PM – Apple Blossom Cloggers
2:00 PM – Uncle Ted White and Whitewater Bluegrass Co.
Balsam/Circle Tent
10:00 AM – Ann Woodford: African American history and stories
11:00 AM – Deitz Family
12:00 PM – Roots and Branches Circle with Kristin Scott Benson, Daniel Grindstaff, Adam Haynes, Brayden McMahan and Phil Jamison
1:00 PM – Sparky Rucker: Mountain Voices storytelling
2:00 PM – Suffering and Hope Circle with the Deitz Family, Jeanette Schrock and Mark Queen, Tim Raybon and Phil Jamison
3:00 PM – Roots and Branches
4:00 PM – Community Square Dance
Shape Note Tent
10:30 AM – Shape Note Singing with Will Peebles
12:15 PM – Calliope Shorts Ethel Brown: A Singer Needs a Song
12:30 PM – Calliope Shorts Moonshine and a Grey Duck
1:00 PM – Shape Note Singing with Will Peebles
Stickball Field
11:00 AM – “Kolanvyi” Big Cove Indian Ball Team
2:00 PM – “Kolanvyi” Big Cove Indian Ball Team
McNeely’s Chainsaw Competition
9:00 – 10:00 AM – Registration (after 10:00 AM, a penalty will occur)
10:00 AM – Until all registered contestants have participated
10:00 AM – Homeowner Class Competition Begins
Andy Shaw Ford Classic Car Show
9:00 – 10:00 AM – Registration
10:00 AM –12:00 PM – Encouraging participation from the public to vote for their favorite car; collect ballots; engage with participants
12:00 PM – Voting closes
2:00 PM – Awards Announced (People’s Choice, Top 3)
It’s time for some Inclusion, Y’all! That’s the theme of this year’s Blue Ridge Pride Festival, taking place at Asheville’s Pack Square Park on Saturday, September 24 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This is Western North Carolina’s largest Pride event, typically attracting 14,000 to 18,000 people.
Two stages feature some of the most noted musical and DRAG talent in the region. Over 100 organizations that focus on social justice, community service, health care, faith, education, and the LGBTQ community will be on hand. Another 100 local employers, merchants, artists, food concessions, and service providers will round what may Asheville’s largest, most diverse collections of exhibitors to gather for a day of advocacy, service, education, and celebration.