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 25, 2023
Asheville Merchandise Guide
Aug 25 all-day
online

Asheville Merchandise Guide

All the wearable merch in Asheville in one place.

We love a souvenir T-shirt

So much so that we were inspired to create this guide, first published in May 2023. We’ll be updating it a few times a year, and we encourage you to check in with the businesses listed in the guide about availability. Often merch sells out quickly or is a limited edition. 

While these items aren’t strictly secondhand, we love supporting local businesses and know firsthand how lovely it is to hold on to a memory of a special place you visited on a trip. 

If you know of some merch we’re missing or have feedback or questions, fill out the form below to let us know! 

LEAF announces Festival Line Up
Aug 25 all-day
online
RAHZEL OF THE ROOTS AT LEAF FESTIVAL
Aug 25 all-day
online

What!!! Rahzel from the original Roots is coming to LEAF! The Human Beatbox aka the Grammy-winning Rapper/MC from the original, world-renowned Roots lineup, has been added to the Saturday night lineup of the October Festival.

Famous for his jaw-dropping vocal percussion and beatboxing prowess, Rahzel is not just a performer, he’s an experience. Dive deep into the pulse and rhythm of hip-hop (on the 50th anniversary of the genre) with this masterful artist who blurs the line between voice and instrument. It’s more than a show: it’s musical genius live onstage.

Aaaand … there will be a Beatbox Play-Shop for all ages. Don’t miss it! 🔥🔥🔥

Rahzel is one of the biggest names in beatboxing today, and continues to redefine the limits of the human voice. Known as “The Godfather of Noyze,” he was growing up in Queens when hip-hop blew up. LEAF is thrilled to welcome Rahzel to the fall Festival on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

Rahzel’s cousin Rahiem was an original member of the Furious Five, and Rahzel recalls sneaking into their shows, “watching Grand Master Flash before I could even see over the gate.” Rahzel embraced the philosophy that “not having’ was never an excuse for ‘not doing. … To me, [beatboxing] saves lives and I’m a prime example of it. It inspires kids to be creative and motivated.”

Through both his solo work and his stint with the live-music hip-hop group The Roots, Rahzel is credited with bringing beatboxing back to the fore of hip-hop in the 1990s. Rahzel can sing a chorus and beatbox the back-up simultaneously, a skill showcased on his signature song, “If Your Mother Only Knew,” from his groundbreaking first album, Make the Music 2000. Rahzel has worked with artists from Björk to Branford Marsalis.

LEAF Global Arts is on a mission CONNECTING CULTURES and CREATING COMMUNITY through world music, arts education, preservation and experiences. The closest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.

Join us at LEAF Festival October 19-22, 2023 at Lake Eden

Saturday, August 26, 2023
Asheville Merchandise Guide
Aug 26 all-day
online

Asheville Merchandise Guide

All the wearable merch in Asheville in one place.

We love a souvenir T-shirt

So much so that we were inspired to create this guide, first published in May 2023. We’ll be updating it a few times a year, and we encourage you to check in with the businesses listed in the guide about availability. Often merch sells out quickly or is a limited edition. 

While these items aren’t strictly secondhand, we love supporting local businesses and know firsthand how lovely it is to hold on to a memory of a special place you visited on a trip. 

If you know of some merch we’re missing or have feedback or questions, fill out the form below to let us know! 

LEAF announces Festival Line Up
Aug 26 all-day
online
RAHZEL OF THE ROOTS AT LEAF FESTIVAL
Aug 26 all-day
online

What!!! Rahzel from the original Roots is coming to LEAF! The Human Beatbox aka the Grammy-winning Rapper/MC from the original, world-renowned Roots lineup, has been added to the Saturday night lineup of the October Festival.

Famous for his jaw-dropping vocal percussion and beatboxing prowess, Rahzel is not just a performer, he’s an experience. Dive deep into the pulse and rhythm of hip-hop (on the 50th anniversary of the genre) with this masterful artist who blurs the line between voice and instrument. It’s more than a show: it’s musical genius live onstage.

Aaaand … there will be a Beatbox Play-Shop for all ages. Don’t miss it! 🔥🔥🔥

Rahzel is one of the biggest names in beatboxing today, and continues to redefine the limits of the human voice. Known as “The Godfather of Noyze,” he was growing up in Queens when hip-hop blew up. LEAF is thrilled to welcome Rahzel to the fall Festival on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

Rahzel’s cousin Rahiem was an original member of the Furious Five, and Rahzel recalls sneaking into their shows, “watching Grand Master Flash before I could even see over the gate.” Rahzel embraced the philosophy that “not having’ was never an excuse for ‘not doing. … To me, [beatboxing] saves lives and I’m a prime example of it. It inspires kids to be creative and motivated.”

Through both his solo work and his stint with the live-music hip-hop group The Roots, Rahzel is credited with bringing beatboxing back to the fore of hip-hop in the 1990s. Rahzel can sing a chorus and beatbox the back-up simultaneously, a skill showcased on his signature song, “If Your Mother Only Knew,” from his groundbreaking first album, Make the Music 2000. Rahzel has worked with artists from Björk to Branford Marsalis.

LEAF Global Arts is on a mission CONNECTING CULTURES and CREATING COMMUNITY through world music, arts education, preservation and experiences. The closest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.

Join us at LEAF Festival October 19-22, 2023 at Lake Eden

Southern Bungalow Trunk Show at Acorns
Aug 26 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Acorns

Acorns’ Annual season of trunk shows highlights the talented creators of fine art, designer jewelry, and home goods.
Each Southern Bungalow candle is hand-poured in a reusable statement piece container using an organic and clean-burning coconut wax. Coconut wax is odorless until scented with cosmetic-grade fragrances and essential oils. Each fragrance is carefully curated and inspired by nature, my love of travel, and my fondest memories of growing up in the South. Southern Bungalow Co. was created from a love for fragrances and all things beautiful for the home.

Swannanoa Valley Museum Antique + Collectible Sale
Aug 26 @ 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Monte Vista Hotel Banquet Room

Stop by the historic Monte Vista Hotel for our first ever  Antique & Collectible Sale. The museum will be selling deaccessioned items from its extensive collection and select vendors will be selling antiques and collectibles.

Asheville FM Vinyl Record Fair
Aug 26 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center- Asheville

Join us Saturday August 26, 2023 at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville.

$20 VIP tickets include early admission 10am – 11am, and a sturdy tote bag the perfect size to carry your purchases, and including goodies from our sponsors.
$5-10 Suggested Donation Regular Admission 11am – 5pm

We’ll have over 30 vendors this year providing over 10,000 square feet of records, 45s, CDs, collectibles and MORE!

Hear great live DJ sets and performances by local artists!

Tickets Available Soon!


***You*** can sign up to be a record fair vendor HERE


We want your unwanted vinyl and CD collections!

If you’ve got a batch of interesting and eclectic vinyl and CDs that you’d like to donate to us ahead of the fair, please email us.  We use these donations to help fill in holes in our ever-expanding music library and to help generate funds for the station. And we will happily provide a tax receipt for your donation!


We’re looking for business sponsors for Record Fair!


Volunteer to Help!

Just like the rest of our programming, we rely on volunteers to make our Record Fair a great experience for vendors and attendees! Contact Volunteer Coordinator Jess Speer at [email protected] to learn more!


Location & Directions

Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville (sometimes still referred to as the Civic Center) is located in downtown Asheville at 87 Haywood St.

Paid parking is available at the Center, with all parking fees supporting Asheville FM. Enter on Rankin Ave.

There are also over 700 metered parking spots, and several parking garages within a 3-5 minute walk.


FOR MORE INFORMATION email us at [email protected]

Artisan Markets at Nantahala Outdoor Center
Aug 26 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Nantahala Outdoor Center, NOC Outfitter's Store

market-on-the-river-bank

From the regional crafters to local guide artisans, set up on the river banks of the Nantahala. Come and meet these vendors and more on the second Saturday of every month, May – September.

If you are interested in joining us as a vendor, please fill out your information here: https://forms.gle/BgqQQpY4XSGqtH6f6

Sunday, August 27, 2023
Asheville Merchandise Guide
Aug 27 all-day
online

Asheville Merchandise Guide

All the wearable merch in Asheville in one place.

We love a souvenir T-shirt

So much so that we were inspired to create this guide, first published in May 2023. We’ll be updating it a few times a year, and we encourage you to check in with the businesses listed in the guide about availability. Often merch sells out quickly or is a limited edition. 

While these items aren’t strictly secondhand, we love supporting local businesses and know firsthand how lovely it is to hold on to a memory of a special place you visited on a trip. 

If you know of some merch we’re missing or have feedback or questions, fill out the form below to let us know! 

LEAF announces Festival Line Up
Aug 27 all-day
online
RAHZEL OF THE ROOTS AT LEAF FESTIVAL
Aug 27 all-day
online

What!!! Rahzel from the original Roots is coming to LEAF! The Human Beatbox aka the Grammy-winning Rapper/MC from the original, world-renowned Roots lineup, has been added to the Saturday night lineup of the October Festival.

Famous for his jaw-dropping vocal percussion and beatboxing prowess, Rahzel is not just a performer, he’s an experience. Dive deep into the pulse and rhythm of hip-hop (on the 50th anniversary of the genre) with this masterful artist who blurs the line between voice and instrument. It’s more than a show: it’s musical genius live onstage.

Aaaand … there will be a Beatbox Play-Shop for all ages. Don’t miss it! 🔥🔥🔥

Rahzel is one of the biggest names in beatboxing today, and continues to redefine the limits of the human voice. Known as “The Godfather of Noyze,” he was growing up in Queens when hip-hop blew up. LEAF is thrilled to welcome Rahzel to the fall Festival on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

Rahzel’s cousin Rahiem was an original member of the Furious Five, and Rahzel recalls sneaking into their shows, “watching Grand Master Flash before I could even see over the gate.” Rahzel embraced the philosophy that “not having’ was never an excuse for ‘not doing. … To me, [beatboxing] saves lives and I’m a prime example of it. It inspires kids to be creative and motivated.”

Through both his solo work and his stint with the live-music hip-hop group The Roots, Rahzel is credited with bringing beatboxing back to the fore of hip-hop in the 1990s. Rahzel can sing a chorus and beatbox the back-up simultaneously, a skill showcased on his signature song, “If Your Mother Only Knew,” from his groundbreaking first album, Make the Music 2000. Rahzel has worked with artists from Björk to Branford Marsalis.

LEAF Global Arts is on a mission CONNECTING CULTURES and CREATING COMMUNITY through world music, arts education, preservation and experiences. The closest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.

Join us at LEAF Festival October 19-22, 2023 at Lake Eden

Southern Bungalow Trunk Show at Acorns
Aug 27 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Acorns

Acorns’ Annual season of trunk shows highlights the talented creators of fine art, designer jewelry, and home goods.
Each Southern Bungalow candle is hand-poured in a reusable statement piece container using an organic and clean-burning coconut wax. Coconut wax is odorless until scented with cosmetic-grade fragrances and essential oils. Each fragrance is carefully curated and inspired by nature, my love of travel, and my fondest memories of growing up in the South. Southern Bungalow Co. was created from a love for fragrances and all things beautiful for the home.

SUNDAY MARKET
Aug 27 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Rabbit Rabbit
 

Show & Tell returns to Rabbit Rabbit in for a monthly Sunday Market celebrating and supporting local + indie craft, design, and vintage. Gather with friends and family in the open air at this one-of-a-kind outdoor venue in Downtown Asheville and shop vintage clothes, housewares, handmade jewelry, ceramics, apparel and more.

Enjoy music, special activities, coffee from Bridge & Tunnel Coffee Co, beer and cocktails by AVL Brewing Co, and bites from AVL Taco.

Monday, August 28, 2023
LEAF announces Festival Line Up
Aug 28 all-day
online
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
LEAF announces Festival Line Up
Aug 30 all-day
online
Festival of Neighborhoods
Aug 30 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Martin Luther King Jr. Park

The Neighborhood Advisory Committee invites all of Asheville to gather for a day filled with neighborly interaction, learning, and fun for the whole family at Festival of Neighborhoods. This event is aimed at bringing together neighbors from all corners of Asheville with the primary goal of strengthening the bond between residents, neighborhood associations, and local organizations to create a harmonious and thriving community.

The Festival of Neighborhoods will take place Saturday, September 30, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., at Martin Luther King Jr. Park (50 Martin Luther King Jr Dr). Admission to the event is free, and everyone is welcome.

Highlights of the event include:

  • Connecting Communities: Discover the exciting work being done by neighborhood organizations that contribute to the well-being of our city. Engage with these groups to learn about the projects, initiatives, and volunteering opportunities.
  • Entertainment and Activities: Enjoy inflatables, food trucks, music, and interactive entertainment throughout the day.
  • Local Services: Meet City employees from departments including Parks and Recreation, Police, Water, Public Works, Transportation, and more! Representatives from other local organizations will also be present, including Buncombe County Tax Assessors and local nonprofits.
  • Neighborhood Resilience Building: In honor of Emergency Preparedness Month, Asheville Fire and Sustainability departments will be teaming up to provide important information for neighbors on how to get ready for emergency events.

“We believe that strong communities are built on the foundation of connection and understanding,” said Elizabeth Likis-Werle, interim Vice-Chair of the Neighborhood Advisory Committee. “The Festival of Neighborhoods serves as a platform to foster these connections and to celebrate the rich diversity that makes our city so special.”

For more information about the Festival of Neighborhoods, including sponsorship opportunities and volunteering details, please contact the Neighborhood Advisory Committee at [email protected].

Follow the City of Asheville on social media for event updates and to join the conversation about community connection.

 

About the Neighborhood Advisory Committee

The Neighborhood Advisory Committee was established to advise City Council on neighborhood needs within the City of Asheville’s zoning and planning jurisdiction. The committee works to strengthen neighborhood identity and resilience by facilitating communication and cooperation between Asheville’s neighborhoods and City offices.

Thursday, August 31, 2023
Asheville Merchandise Guide
Aug 31 all-day
online

Asheville Merchandise Guide

All the wearable merch in Asheville in one place.

We love a souvenir T-shirt

So much so that we were inspired to create this guide, first published in May 2023. We’ll be updating it a few times a year, and we encourage you to check in with the businesses listed in the guide about availability. Often merch sells out quickly or is a limited edition. 

While these items aren’t strictly secondhand, we love supporting local businesses and know firsthand how lovely it is to hold on to a memory of a special place you visited on a trip. 

If you know of some merch we’re missing or have feedback or questions, fill out the form below to let us know! 

RAHZEL OF THE ROOTS AT LEAF FESTIVAL
Aug 31 all-day
online

What!!! Rahzel from the original Roots is coming to LEAF! The Human Beatbox aka the Grammy-winning Rapper/MC from the original, world-renowned Roots lineup, has been added to the Saturday night lineup of the October Festival.

Famous for his jaw-dropping vocal percussion and beatboxing prowess, Rahzel is not just a performer, he’s an experience. Dive deep into the pulse and rhythm of hip-hop (on the 50th anniversary of the genre) with this masterful artist who blurs the line between voice and instrument. It’s more than a show: it’s musical genius live onstage.

Aaaand … there will be a Beatbox Play-Shop for all ages. Don’t miss it! 🔥🔥🔥

Rahzel is one of the biggest names in beatboxing today, and continues to redefine the limits of the human voice. Known as “The Godfather of Noyze,” he was growing up in Queens when hip-hop blew up. LEAF is thrilled to welcome Rahzel to the fall Festival on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

Rahzel’s cousin Rahiem was an original member of the Furious Five, and Rahzel recalls sneaking into their shows, “watching Grand Master Flash before I could even see over the gate.” Rahzel embraced the philosophy that “not having’ was never an excuse for ‘not doing. … To me, [beatboxing] saves lives and I’m a prime example of it. It inspires kids to be creative and motivated.”

Through both his solo work and his stint with the live-music hip-hop group The Roots, Rahzel is credited with bringing beatboxing back to the fore of hip-hop in the 1990s. Rahzel can sing a chorus and beatbox the back-up simultaneously, a skill showcased on his signature song, “If Your Mother Only Knew,” from his groundbreaking first album, Make the Music 2000. Rahzel has worked with artists from Björk to Branford Marsalis.

LEAF Global Arts is on a mission CONNECTING CULTURES and CREATING COMMUNITY through world music, arts education, preservation and experiences. The closest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.

Join us at LEAF Festival October 19-22, 2023 at Lake Eden

Friday, September 1, 2023
77th Annual NC Apple Festival: A Celebration of Community, Culture, and Apples
Sep 1 all-day
Downtown Hendersonville

The 77th Annual North Carolina Apple Festival is set for 2023’s Labor Day Holiday, September 1-4. This is a four-day extravaganza that promises to be a delightful blend of entertainment, delicious food, engaging activities, and a celebration of the region’s rich apple and agricultural heritage.

Friday marks the start of the North Carolina Apple Festival, and the opening ceremonies begin at 4:30 pm at the Historic Courthouse. Today is a great day to visit the festival, or grab some festival food during your lunch break. The street fair will run from 10 am – 8 pm while the entertainment, children’s area, and food court will run until 8 pm.

Headlining Friday’s entertainment is Buddy K Big Band playing 6:30 pm. 8:30 pm.

Saturday is a happening and busy day at the North Carolina Apple Festival with the street fair, and the live entertainment beginning at noon, the multiple special events occurring throughout Henderson County and, of course, the fried apple pies! The street fair will run from 10 am – 8 pm while the entertainment, children’s area, and food court will run until 8 pm.

Headlining Saturday’s entertainment is Swinging Medallions playing 5:30 pm. 8:30 pm.

There is ongoing entertainment throughout the day with bands such as Ryan Perry Band, Free Flow Band, Super ‘60s, Carolina Quartet and more!

Another wonderful day to take in the North Carolina Apple Festival is Sunday. Sunday offers the street fair, the Gem & Mineral Spectacular, and so much more! The street fair will run from 10 am – 8 pm while the entertainment, children’s area, and food court will run until 8 pm.

Headlining Sunday’s entertainment is The Mighty Kicks playing 5:30 pm. 8:30 pm.

There is ongoing entertainment throughout the day with bands such as Ryan Perry Band, Free Flow Band, Super ‘60s, Carolina Quartet and more!

The festival will be coming to a close today, but the King Apple Parade is the best way to end the North Carolina Apple Festival. There is only a mini-street fair available today since we have to remove some of the vendors north of the Historic Courthouse to make space for the parade. The mini street fair will run from 10 am until the end of the parade. The King Apple Parade will begin at 2:30 pm rain or shine. Come get your NC apples today!

No Entertainment due to parade.

 

Children’s Activities

Rides, inflatables, and more will await you and your family in the Family Fun Zone, sponsored by Wells Fargo Bank! There are two locations: Wells Fargo Bank and the Visitor’s Center. Come see what all the fuss is about and here’s a warning – your kids might not want to leave!

Palmetto Amusements will again be providing the children’s rides and inflatables. Tickets are available for purchase onsite.

Ticket prices:
1 ticket = $1
25 tickets = $20
70 tickets = $55

Attractions vary in number of tickets required from 1 ticket per ride to 5 tickets per ride.

Hours of Operation are:
Friday, 12 pm to 8 pm
Saturday & Sunday, 10 am to 8 pm
Monday, 10 am to 4 pm

Earl Scruggs Music Festival
Sep 1 all-day
Tryon International Equestrian Center

The Earl Scruggs Music Festival will be hosted at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC from Friday, September 1 through Sunday, September 3, 2023. There are three stages: The FLINT HILL Hill Stage presented by WLOS (main stage), The FOGGY MOUNTAIN Stage presented by Lakeside Mills, The LEGENDS WORKSHOP Stage presented by Gibson Gives. ESMF will include a family area with children’s activities.  We are also offering our exclusive ESMF EXPERIENCES.

We encourage all patrons to bring their instruments and join us at the IBMA Jammin’ Area: Earl’s Pickin’ Pavilion. BYO Instrument! All instrument cases will be subject to search at the festival gate. Lets celebrate Scruggs the best way we know how!

LEAF announces Festival Line Up
Sep 1 all-day
online
RAHZEL OF THE ROOTS AT LEAF FESTIVAL
Sep 1 all-day
online

What!!! Rahzel from the original Roots is coming to LEAF! The Human Beatbox aka the Grammy-winning Rapper/MC from the original, world-renowned Roots lineup, has been added to the Saturday night lineup of the October Festival.

Famous for his jaw-dropping vocal percussion and beatboxing prowess, Rahzel is not just a performer, he’s an experience. Dive deep into the pulse and rhythm of hip-hop (on the 50th anniversary of the genre) with this masterful artist who blurs the line between voice and instrument. It’s more than a show: it’s musical genius live onstage.

Aaaand … there will be a Beatbox Play-Shop for all ages. Don’t miss it! 🔥🔥🔥

Rahzel is one of the biggest names in beatboxing today, and continues to redefine the limits of the human voice. Known as “The Godfather of Noyze,” he was growing up in Queens when hip-hop blew up. LEAF is thrilled to welcome Rahzel to the fall Festival on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

Rahzel’s cousin Rahiem was an original member of the Furious Five, and Rahzel recalls sneaking into their shows, “watching Grand Master Flash before I could even see over the gate.” Rahzel embraced the philosophy that “not having’ was never an excuse for ‘not doing. … To me, [beatboxing] saves lives and I’m a prime example of it. It inspires kids to be creative and motivated.”

Through both his solo work and his stint with the live-music hip-hop group The Roots, Rahzel is credited with bringing beatboxing back to the fore of hip-hop in the 1990s. Rahzel can sing a chorus and beatbox the back-up simultaneously, a skill showcased on his signature song, “If Your Mother Only Knew,” from his groundbreaking first album, Make the Music 2000. Rahzel has worked with artists from Björk to Branford Marsalis.

LEAF Global Arts is on a mission CONNECTING CULTURES and CREATING COMMUNITY through world music, arts education, preservation and experiences. The closest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.

Join us at LEAF Festival October 19-22, 2023 at Lake Eden

Saturday, September 2, 2023
‘4M’ Mountain Makers Mushrooms + Music Festival
Sep 2 all-day
Jackson Arts Market

(Sylva, NC September 2, 2023) Jackson Arts Market, JAM Glass Gallery & Jackson County Arts Council are proud to host the second annual 4M Festival. Attendance is free to this celebration of Blue Ridge mountain culture, art, and nature. The event features 11 hours of live music, 45 live art demonstrations & workshops, speakers & performances, food trucks, bar & restaurant, wild foods, 80+ local artists vending, and much more to discover. Admire the dazzling variety of the Sparkle Glass show, an exclusive exhibit curated inside the JAM Glass Gallery.

This educational event shares a wide array of first hand experiences, guaranteed to delight everyone. Interactive workshops range from paint classes to steel forging to “backyard tea” foraging. Educational lectures by local environmental activists will share ways to help save our planet and preserve mountain heritage. Artisans, modern and traditional, will be there to demonstrate their craft to the public.

In 2022, the 4M Festival was a smashing success, seeing attendance of over 3,000 guests and over 50 vendors and demonstrators. This year the event has expanded. “We aim for 4M to connect guests with opportunities to learn and participate with local organizations, arts, nature, and continue being engaged.” Says Event Organizer Joshua Murch. There will be two stages, one at the Jackson Arts Market for music and the other at the Paper Mill Lounge for educational lectures. Full Event Schedule and Map are available at www.jacksonartsmarket.com/4m .

Don’t miss out on the exquisite craftsmanship of The Sparkle Glass Show. This shimmering exhibit inside the JAM Glass Gallery will feature over 75 glass artists’ glistening pieces. Connected to the gallery is a live glassblowing studio with artists demonstrating throughout the day.
“There really is something there for everybody. And with free admission and a gorgeous mountain view, you can’t beat it.” Says Chloe Burnette-Turner, local forager and assistant coordinator at the Jackson Arts Market. Located in the center of historic downtown Sylva, 4M is in proximity to fantastic restaurants, breweries and shops. Parking for the festival is around the corner at the Sylva First United Methodist Church. Event goes from 10am-6pm on Saturday September 2nd at 533 West Main St, Sylva and adjacent properties.

77th Annual NC Apple Festival: A Celebration of Community, Culture, and Apples
Sep 2 all-day
Downtown Hendersonville

The 77th Annual North Carolina Apple Festival is set for 2023’s Labor Day Holiday, September 1-4. This is a four-day extravaganza that promises to be a delightful blend of entertainment, delicious food, engaging activities, and a celebration of the region’s rich apple and agricultural heritage.

Friday marks the start of the North Carolina Apple Festival, and the opening ceremonies begin at 4:30 pm at the Historic Courthouse. Today is a great day to visit the festival, or grab some festival food during your lunch break. The street fair will run from 10 am – 8 pm while the entertainment, children’s area, and food court will run until 8 pm.

Headlining Friday’s entertainment is Buddy K Big Band playing 6:30 pm. 8:30 pm.

Saturday is a happening and busy day at the North Carolina Apple Festival with the street fair, and the live entertainment beginning at noon, the multiple special events occurring throughout Henderson County and, of course, the fried apple pies! The street fair will run from 10 am – 8 pm while the entertainment, children’s area, and food court will run until 8 pm.

Headlining Saturday’s entertainment is Swinging Medallions playing 5:30 pm. 8:30 pm.

There is ongoing entertainment throughout the day with bands such as Ryan Perry Band, Free Flow Band, Super ‘60s, Carolina Quartet and more!

Another wonderful day to take in the North Carolina Apple Festival is Sunday. Sunday offers the street fair, the Gem & Mineral Spectacular, and so much more! The street fair will run from 10 am – 8 pm while the entertainment, children’s area, and food court will run until 8 pm.

Headlining Sunday’s entertainment is The Mighty Kicks playing 5:30 pm. 8:30 pm.

There is ongoing entertainment throughout the day with bands such as Ryan Perry Band, Free Flow Band, Super ‘60s, Carolina Quartet and more!

The festival will be coming to a close today, but the King Apple Parade is the best way to end the North Carolina Apple Festival. There is only a mini-street fair available today since we have to remove some of the vendors north of the Historic Courthouse to make space for the parade. The mini street fair will run from 10 am until the end of the parade. The King Apple Parade will begin at 2:30 pm rain or shine. Come get your NC apples today!

No Entertainment due to parade.

 

Children’s Activities

Rides, inflatables, and more will await you and your family in the Family Fun Zone, sponsored by Wells Fargo Bank! There are two locations: Wells Fargo Bank and the Visitor’s Center. Come see what all the fuss is about and here’s a warning – your kids might not want to leave!

Palmetto Amusements will again be providing the children’s rides and inflatables. Tickets are available for purchase onsite.

Ticket prices:
1 ticket = $1
25 tickets = $20
70 tickets = $55

Attractions vary in number of tickets required from 1 ticket per ride to 5 tickets per ride.

Hours of Operation are:
Friday, 12 pm to 8 pm
Saturday & Sunday, 10 am to 8 pm
Monday, 10 am to 4 pm

Earl Scruggs Music Festival
Sep 2 all-day
Tryon International Equestrian Center

The Earl Scruggs Music Festival will be hosted at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC from Friday, September 1 through Sunday, September 3, 2023. There are three stages: The FLINT HILL Hill Stage presented by WLOS (main stage), The FOGGY MOUNTAIN Stage presented by Lakeside Mills, The LEGENDS WORKSHOP Stage presented by Gibson Gives. ESMF will include a family area with children’s activities.  We are also offering our exclusive ESMF EXPERIENCES.

We encourage all patrons to bring their instruments and join us at the IBMA Jammin’ Area: Earl’s Pickin’ Pavilion. BYO Instrument! All instrument cases will be subject to search at the festival gate. Lets celebrate Scruggs the best way we know how!

LEAF announces Festival Line Up
Sep 2 all-day
online
RAHZEL OF THE ROOTS AT LEAF FESTIVAL
Sep 2 all-day
online

What!!! Rahzel from the original Roots is coming to LEAF! The Human Beatbox aka the Grammy-winning Rapper/MC from the original, world-renowned Roots lineup, has been added to the Saturday night lineup of the October Festival.

Famous for his jaw-dropping vocal percussion and beatboxing prowess, Rahzel is not just a performer, he’s an experience. Dive deep into the pulse and rhythm of hip-hop (on the 50th anniversary of the genre) with this masterful artist who blurs the line between voice and instrument. It’s more than a show: it’s musical genius live onstage.

Aaaand … there will be a Beatbox Play-Shop for all ages. Don’t miss it! 🔥🔥🔥

Rahzel is one of the biggest names in beatboxing today, and continues to redefine the limits of the human voice. Known as “The Godfather of Noyze,” he was growing up in Queens when hip-hop blew up. LEAF is thrilled to welcome Rahzel to the fall Festival on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

Rahzel’s cousin Rahiem was an original member of the Furious Five, and Rahzel recalls sneaking into their shows, “watching Grand Master Flash before I could even see over the gate.” Rahzel embraced the philosophy that “not having’ was never an excuse for ‘not doing. … To me, [beatboxing] saves lives and I’m a prime example of it. It inspires kids to be creative and motivated.”

Through both his solo work and his stint with the live-music hip-hop group The Roots, Rahzel is credited with bringing beatboxing back to the fore of hip-hop in the 1990s. Rahzel can sing a chorus and beatbox the back-up simultaneously, a skill showcased on his signature song, “If Your Mother Only Knew,” from his groundbreaking first album, Make the Music 2000. Rahzel has worked with artists from Björk to Branford Marsalis.

LEAF Global Arts is on a mission CONNECTING CULTURES and CREATING COMMUNITY through world music, arts education, preservation and experiences. The closest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.

Join us at LEAF Festival October 19-22, 2023 at Lake Eden

LOOM Imports Studio Sale – up to 80% off
Sep 2 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
LOOM Imports Studio

Join us this Labor Day weekend as we celebrate traditional craftsmanship, shopping ethically, and a new studio space for @loomimports!

Here’s the scoop:
– Up to 80% Off Handpicked Pieces: handmade textiles, accessories, & more
– Sips & Snacks: Toast to new beginnings in our fresh Studio space while you shop
– Easy shopping in IG stories Thursday-Saturday @loomimports
– In person shopping Saturday 9/2 from 11am-4pm with access to things not in the story sale like lighting, stuffed poufs, & more!
Oh, and every purchase supports our journey to become a certified B Corp (more on that soon!)