ASHEVILLE EVENT LINKS
ASHEVILLE FESTIVALS
Brewgrass Festival — Asheville is definitely known for its beer scene, and Asheville’s Brewgrass Festival is among the best beer events anywhere! On a single Saturday, more than 200 microbrewers set up at Salvage Station, a great outdoor venue in the River Arts District, to a stage set by bluegrass, Americana, and country musicians. You can try new and fresh brews created in small batches. Buy tickets in advance for up to 50 tastings. Those not drinking can buy discounted tickets that do not include the beer tastings. Brewtiful Event!
When: One weekend in October
RiverMusic & Riverfest — From June to September, meet on the banks of the French Broad River with RiverLink to celebrate the world’s third-oldest river and raise support to help preserve it and keep it clean. Be sure to not miss the weekend in August when the “Anything that Floats” parade happens. This event is free and occurs at New Belgium Brewing, so bring an ID and money for beer!
When: The first or second Saturday of June, July, August, and September
Biltmore Through the Seasons — The Biltmore House is the largest house and one of the most visited mansions in the United States. Throughout the year near holidays, the grounds are transformed into a celebration of the varied seasons. From Biltmore at Christmas to Biltmore Blooms, lights and Christmas trees transform the home into a beautiful wonderland between November and December while the tulips bloom in spring for a symphony of colors. Check the calendar to ensure correct dates as weather can affect the gardens and decorations.
When: Seasonal, often occurring during and around the holidays
National Gingerbread Competition — Come see everything gingerbread! Each holiday season, gingerbread houses from all across the United States are entered into a national competition at the Omni Grove Park Resort. Walking through the hotel’s beautiful lobby, which features massive stone fireplaces and hallways lined with photos of the most famous guests, including presidents and authors, is reason enough to attend the event. With three categories of entries ranging from children to adults, the free event is covered by national broadcasters like ABC News, the Travel Channel, and Food Network. A popular event among locals and visitors alike, this is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!
When: End of November through the beginning of January
LEAF — Otherwise known as the Lake Eden Arts Festival, LEAF is probably the most popular arts festival in the city. Take a seat along the banks of Lake Eden to listen to musicians from all across the world and relax after a busy day. A global cultural and interactive art festival, LEAF promises a weekend of family-friendly fun and activities — including more adventurous options like zip-lining, swimming, and hiking among Black Mountain‘s 600 acres of forests and lakes.
When: Biannually, occurs the second weekend of May and third weekend of October
Asheville Yoga Festival — This four-day event takes place in Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville. Over 30 speakers present and more than 70 classes and other active events take place across the weekend. All-access tickets can be purchased, or you can pay per event to attend. Lots of music, and thanks to the central location, guests can easily take in the award winning eclectic food and restaurant scene.
When: One weekend in late July
Dirty Dancing Festival — Just a short drive outside of Asheville, followers of the cult-classic movie, Dirty Dancing, can explore the set of that famous lake scene in which Johnny and Baby learn lifts. Though there are actual dancing competitions at this event, guests can expect plenty of dancing fun without being a professional. You can watch an outdoor screening of the movie on the banks of the lake, take dancing lessons, participate in movie-inspired summer retreat games like watermelon races, and have access to after parties.
When: One weekend in September
River Arts District Studio Stroll — The River Arts District is the center of Asheville’s artist community. With more than 300 creating artists, this guided studio walk takes guests to a number of buildings to visit and watch them at their craft. From painters and potters to jewelry designers and glass blowers, there are many mediums for visitors to explore and watch in action. Learn about the artists from a guide while walking, and become a patron of the arts by purchasing directly from your favorite artist. Some artists open their studios to host and teach classes, making this a wonderful opportunity to find a style or piece of artwork that speaks to you.
When: One weekend in November
ASHEVILLE PARKS
Pack Square Park —Asheville’s “front yard,” Pack Square Park serves as a multi-use space against the Art Deco city hall. The park’s stage serves as a central point for hosting musicians, open-air theater performances, city events, festivals, and other free occurrences. Check the calendar and don’t miss favorite opportunities like Asheville Art in the Park, Asheville VeganFest, and the Asheville Half Marathon.
French Broad River Park — Given the ancient age of its rocks, French Broad River is thought to be one of the oldest rivers in the world, predating the Appalachians themselves. This park in front of the river is a great place to sit under an old, shady tree and take in the view or easily access the greenway for longer walks or bike rides. This riverside green space also includes paved trails, a scenic overlook, and two dog parks — one for off-leash large dogs and one for smaller dogs. One event dog-lovers will not want to miss is the monthly pug party.
Carrier Park — Like the French Broad River Park, Carrier Park includes access to the greenway, river views, and picnic tables. What sets this larger park apart, however, are its sports facilities. With options ranging from roller hockey to lawn bowling, the actively inclined will surely find a sport that suits their taste. Take to the velodrome for cycling or heat things up on the volleyball court.
