Panthertown Valley Celebrates National Trails Day

A hiker visits Schoolhouse Falls

June 2, 9:30 AM to 3 PM - Panthertown Valley features more than 30 miles of public trails and footpaths spread out over 6,300 acres. Join Friends of Panthertown and REI Asheville . to celebrate the 20th anniversary of American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day®.

This combination fun hike, swim and work project will have participants meet at the Cold Mountain Gap (east) entrance to Panthertown Valley near Lake Toxaway. Bring your bathing suit. There will be an opportunity to go swimming at the very popular Schoolhouse Falls. Get dirty helping with trail work and earn a limited-edition REI volunteer shirt. A light trail breakfast will also be offered by REI for those who show up at the trailhead by 9:30 a.m.   Register here.

All ages are welcome at this family-friendly event. Well-behaved leashed dogs are also welcome to join us on the trails.

Please wear closed-toe shoes, dress to get dirty, bring lunch and snacks, plenty of water, and any other personal (medical) items you may need. Some tools and gloves will be provided to loan-out, but bring your own work gloves and pruners if you have them. Limited to 40 participants and spots are filling up fast! Registration is required. For more information call (828) 269-HIKE (4453) or www.panthertown.org.

Weekend Getaway in the NC Mountains 6-1-12

NC cabin in the suburbs of Asheville with beautiful mountain views - 3 bedrooms, 3 baths sleeps up to 8. Covered and open decks, gas grill, hot tub, fire pit, game room with pool table, WIFI. 15 minutes to Asheville or Chimney Rock. $225 - $275 night, $1500 week. Available this weekend.  See photos and make an online reservation

Get links for Asheville restaurants and attractions HERE

What to do this weekend in the NC Mountains

Date: June 1
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk Enjoy the fine art and craft of the Asheville Downtown Gallery Association and see on of the reasons Asheville has been voted #1 small city in the country by the readers of American Style Magazine 2 years running. 25 downtown venues participate with a complete Downtown Gallery Guide and a map Read more...

 
Date: June 1
NC City: Just north of Boone in Galax VA
Event: WBOB "Afternoon Jamboree" Reunion at the Blue Ridge Music Center - Radio host Harold Mitchell and musical friends reprise this popular live radio show on the BRMC stage. “Afternoon Jamboree” featured some of the man time, bluegrass, and  Read more...

Date: June 1
NC City: SYLVA
Event: Concerts on the Creek The Vinyl Brothers Big Band (www.thevinylbrothers.com) plays classic rock and soulful hits, The Asheville based ensemble of 10 friends features a five member brass section. Sylva native and trumpet player, Tim Gillespie says the group performs songs people are used to hearing. Their female vocalist is Terri Lynn Queen, also a Read more...

 
Date: June 1
NC City: MURPHY
Event: Murphy Art Walk - First Fridays from May through November, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM.
Stroll through historic downtown Murphy for an exquisite visual, culinary, and performing arts experience with more than 20 businesses participating. Enjoy Read more...

 
Date: June 1-2
NC City: CHEROKEE
Event: 10th Annual Cherokee Gourd Artist Gathering Featuring exquisitely crafted gourd art, this year’s Cherokee Gourd Artists Gathering brings together collectors and exhibiting artists for a weekend of live demonstrations, classes, competitions and a spectacular art market offering  Read more...

Date: June 1-2
NC City: OLD FORT
Event: NC Gold Festival An annual event featuring gold exhibits, gold mining techniques and demonstrations, treasure and scavenger hunts, geo-caching and gold panning. The events also includes a variety of vendors including arts Read more...

 
Date: June 1-2
NC City: MAGGIE VALLEY
Event: Ole Smoky Tractor Club Spring Fest Educational Antique Tractor and Engine Show with Parts Vendors; Flea Market with Crafts; Tractor rides for kids throughout the day. A parade of 30 tractors drive through Maggie Valley on Friday and Saturday. Concession food Read more...

 
Date: June 1-3
NC City: FONTANA DAM
Event: Appalachian History Weekend This weekend includes a boat tour of Fontana Lake; Gary Carden’s one-woman play “Birdell”; an evening with Walt Larimore, MD, author of “Hazel Creek”; a walking history tour of Fontana Village; book signing opportunities with regional authors; music and more. Buy two nights get one night free at  Read more...

Date: June 1-10
NC City: BLOWING ROCK
Event: Day Out with Thomas the Tank at Tweetsie Railroad Hop aboard with Thomas the Tank Engine as he chugs through the Blue Ridge Mountains. During Thomas' visit, children will have the opportunity to meet and take pictures with Sir Topham Hatt, listen to Thomas and Friends storytelling, and enjoy  Read more...

Date: June 2
NC City: SYLVA
Event: 14th Annual Spirit of the Smokies Car Show The event is located at MedWest-Harris, with registration 8:30AM-12:00PM. The Judging Begins at 12:05 PM with the Awards Ceremony following  Read more...

 Date: June 2
NC City: HENDERSONVILLE
Event: Curb Market Old Timey Day The Henderson County Curb Market is the South's most unique Curb Market. This special event includes music, sausage & ham biscuits cooked on a old timey wood stove, antique displays and Read more...

 
Date: June 2
NC City: CULLOWHEE
Event: 6th Annual Patchwork Folk and Fabric Festival The festival showcases unique mountain heritage in arts & crafts with vendors, displays, bed turning demonstrations and Read more...

 
Date: June 2
NC City: MURPHY
Event: Cherokee County Art, Music and Garden Festival Artists and fine crafters demonstrate and sell their work at booths lining the River Walk trail beginning at the L & N Depot in downtown Murphy. Gardeners and nurseries will be on-hand to offer Read more...

 
Date: June 2
NC City: OLD FORT
Event: ArtsMart Locally created arts and crafts displayed inside the historic Old Fort Depot. Stop by to chat with the creators of these one-of-a-kind items while you shop for yourself, family or friends. Something for everyone including baskets, paintings, Read more...

 
Date: June 2
NC City: CHIMNEY ROCK
Event: "On the Move" Family Wellness Day For decades Chimney Rock Park has promoted hiking as a great way to stay fit and connect with nature. During 2nd annual Family Wellness Day both adults and children are encouraged to get “On the Move” at Chimney Rock and learn how to establish a Read more...

 
Date: June 2
NC City: NORTH WILKESBORO
Event: AMRA Mow Down - Lawn Mower Races Suped up riding lawn mowers from 5 to 18 horsepower motors. Since 2005, during the summer months, Rotarians play host to lawnmower racing. Sanctioned by the Alleghany Mower Racing Association (AMRA), oval track racing on dirt reminds many of the beginning of stock car racing in Read more...

Date: June 2
NC City: FLAT ROCK
Event: 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert by the Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra features a 70-piece professional orchestra. The 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert includes premiere brass fanfares by Peter Voisin, appearances by a former music director and Read more...

Date: June 2-3
NC City: BLACK MOUNTAIN
Event: 15th Annual Black Mountain Arts and Crafts Show An Arts and Crafts Show free to the public on Sutton Avenue next to The Old Depot. The Show includes over 65 Juried Crafters and Artists and its purpose is to promote  Read more...

Date: June 3
NC City: BREVARD
Event: Brevard Community Band Concert Clarinet soloist Steve Cohen will perform works by Rossini and Kovacs; music by Arthur Sullivan, Vaughn Williams, and  Read more...

 Find more events and festivals on the NC Event Calendar  

Chimney Rock Park Hosts Family Wellness Day

June 2   "On the Move" Family Wellness Day    For decades Chimney Rock Park has promoted hiking as a great way to stay fit and connect with nature. During the 2nd Annual Family Wellness Day both adults and children are encouraged to get “On the Move” at Chimney Rock and learn how to establish a healthier exercise routine and diet.

In conjunction with National Trails Day (June 2) there will be guided hikes, health screenings and lots of information on healthy living from many community partners.

Get a link for Chimney Rock Park and more local information on the Chimney Rock NC Visitor Guide.

Support the Mountains to Sea Trail on National trails Day - June 2

VOLUNTEER to build and maintain the trail near Waynesville, on the Haw River in Alamance County, or on the Eno River or at Falls Lake in the Triangle. For more information, check out the MST calendar for these and other events.

SHOP at any Great Outdoor Provision Co. store on June 2nd, and 10% of what you spend will be donated to FMST. We'll use the money to make grants to North Carolina land trusts to acquire new land and easements where we can build the MST.Mountains-to-Sea Trail connects Clingman's Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Jockey's Ridge State Park on the Outer Banks with 1000 miles of footpaths and temporary connectors. Currently 500 miles of footpaths are complete with work crews, mostly volunteers, continuing construction. The connectors make it possible to hike the entire 1000 miles.

The route passes through 37 counties containing about 40 percent of the state's population. The trail is used by people out for an afternoon stroll as well as those planning to hike the trail from one end of the state to the other.

WNC Nature Center Hosts the Annual Mountain Safari

May 31  Mountain Safari at the WNC Nature Center A one-of-a-kind social adventure! Dress in your best safari gear and party with the animals. Tickets on sale on our website! The evening festivities include live entertainment, special animal encounters, auction & raffle, plus great food and drink.

The WNC Nature Center is located at 75 Gashes Creek Road in Asheville NC. Get a link for the Nature Center and more local information on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

Stories of Mountain Folk for 5-26-12

May 26, 2012 Stories of Mountain Folk Podcast by Catch the Spirit of Appalachia

Storytelling: Amy shares a childhood memory of "Doodlebug, Doodlebug."  Music: "Duets" by Banjo Mania

Creative Corner: Poet Terry Michelsen visits with Doreyl to talk about her new book, "Soaring on Wings of Words." Music: "A Stor Mo Chrol" by the Asheville Muses

Stories of Mountain Folk: Amy talks with Jeff Price, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, about his ability as a natural artist. Music: "Cherokee" Native American Flute.

Apple Butter: Join Krista as she introduces Bradley Adams, a member of the Freight Hoppers Band, and talks about his music heritage. Music: "Shelvin Rock" by the Freight Hoppers

Down Another Road: Judy's guest is Tommy Case once more, as she continues with the history of the historical Pisgah Forest Pottery in Arden. Music: "Darling Cora" by John Analo Phillips, an old Appalachian song

Closing Song:  "Little Satchel" by Blue Ridge Rounders.

CLICK HERE to listen to the Podcast

Memorial Day Weekend Event: Weaverville Roots Festival and Commemorative Ceremony

May 26-28      Weaverville Roots Festival   A three-day celebration of the culture and heritage of Weaverville, NC. On May 26 Heritage Day will fill the downtown and park areas with music, demonstrations, food and other entertainment. On  May 27 the town will celebrate its Tree City USA status with Arbor Day activities and ceremonies in the nature park, plus entertain visitors with gospel music and other sacred music.

On Memorial Day, May 28th, the town roots will be celebrated by honoring those heroes who gave their lives for freedom as well as those heroes who live in the area. There will also be a commemorative ceremony at Lake Louise.

Get a link and find more local information on the Weaverville NC Visitor Guide

Memorial Day Weekend Event: Highlights of Asheville Beer Week

Asheville celebrates its fourth Beer City USA victory with an 11 day extravaganza featuring its exceptional craft brew culture.  Asheville Beer Week , May 24 - June 3  includes everything from special dinners to the "Sink It and Drink It" mini-golf putting crawl. Here are some of the Week's highlights:

 - Now in its third year, the Beer City Festival  hosts to 32 breweries from across the country. On Saturday, June 2, you can sample new brews, try out some local food and enjoy live music. Tickets are available at Barley's Taproom and Brusin' Ales until May 31.
- Take a course in brewology. Join local columnist and beer diva, Anne Fitten Glenn, at Barley's Taproom for Beer 101. Get a lesson in beer styles, brewing, beer history and more. The event takes place Friday, May 25, from 4 to 6PM.

 - Asheville's oldest brewery meets America's oldest brewery. Join Leah Wong Ashburn and Jennifer Yuengling at Highland Brewing Company for an event highlighting the next generation of family-owned breweries. It takes place Thursday, May 31 from 4:00 - 8:00 PM.

- Sample the exceptional Razor Wit , a Highland Brewing Company beer, was just featured on Esquire.com's Best Beers of 2012 list.

-  Mystery Unveiled: A new brewery is coming to town, but who is going to be? Head over to Wedge Brewing Company on Thursday, May 31, from 6:30 - 9:00 PM for the big reveal.

- District 12 release party: Asheville Brewing Company in downtown Asheville will roll out their new Hunger Games themed "District 12 Ale" for the first time. This free event takes place Wednesday, May 30, starting at 5:00 PM

Get a link for Asheville Beer week, Asheville Breweries and local information on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

Last Minute Memroial Day Weekend Rental: West Jefferson Mountain View Cabin

Panoramic mountain Views - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 6. Private setting but only minutes to downtown. Covered deck with rockers, fireplace, HDTV. $145 - $180 night, $825 - $1035 week. Get more details , photos and availability

Memorial Day Weekend Event: 2nd Annual West Jefferson Run

May 26   2nd Annual West Jefferson 5K / 10K Run  Enjoy Memorial Day weekend in historic West Jefferson. This is a chip timed race through the streets and hills surrounding beautiful West Jefferson located at the base of Mt. Jefferson in Ashe County. Bring the entire family for a Kids Dash before the race. Free child care will be provided for parents who participate in the race as well. Following the race there will be food & refreshments, free door prizes & live music.

Find more a link for the Run and more Memorial Day Weekend Events on the NC Events Calendar

Last Minute Memorial Day Rental: Maggie Valley Cataloochee Ranch Cabin

Vintage Cabin on Cataloochee Guest Ranch - 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps up to 6. Mountain views, on site horseback riding and hiking trails. Fireplace, deck with mountain view and gas grill. One-of-a-kind rustic style but with all the modern conveniences. Food service available. $225 night.  See photos and availability

Find more last minute Memorial Day Rentals HERE

Memorial Day Weekend Event: Memorial Party in Old Fort

May 26   Memorial Party Celebrate Memorial Day at Sky Island. The day's events include a concert by The David Cody Band, free mini golf for children under 12, a turkey shoot, horseshoe contest and fishing tournament. Food provided by Sonny's Mountain Side BBQ & Beef Burgers. 2 PM, Sky Island Retreat and Campground, Old Fort

Get a link for for this and other Memorial Day Weekend Events on the NC Mountain Events Calendar

Memorial Day Weekend Events: Wheels Through Time Vet's Special

May 25-27    Wheels Through Time Memorial Day Celebration   This annual event is held to honor members of the American Military and their service to the United States of America. All those who are currently enlisted or who have served are admitted to Wheels Through Time free and provided with a complimentary two-year membership to the museum.

Wheels Through Time is proud to join in this national day of honor and contemplation for all those who have given so much of themselves to our collective well-being. The Museum is located 62 Vintage Lane in Maggie Valley NC. Get a link and more information for Wheels Through Time on the Maggie Valley NC Visitor Guide.

Last Minute Memorial Day Rental - Modern Smoky Mountains Cabin

Modern vacation rental in the Smoky Mountains - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 5. Beautiful mountain view in pristine setting. Deck, fireplace, charcoal grill, fire pit, hammock, WIFI. Located between Robbinsville and Bryson City near Fontana Lake. $700 per week.   See rental photos and availability calendar

Get additional Memorial Day Weekend rentals HERE

Foothills Conservancy Hosts Invasive Plant Workshop

June 2 - A free workshop will be held on the front lawn of the Wilson Creek Visitor’s Center  at 9 AM.  Participants will learn how to identify non-native invasive plants that are threatening the ecological integrity of Wilson Creek and how to best manage them. Cost-share incentive programs for management on larger private properties will be presented.

Wilson Creek is a designated Wild and Scenic River Corridor with outstanding resource waters suitable for natural trout propagation.  Many unique natural communities occur along its 23.3 mile riparian area.  It is a popular destination for anglers and outdoors enthusiasts alike.  Invasive exotic plants such as Japanese Knotweed, Kudzu, Oriental Bittersweet, Japanese Spiraea and others are invading these natural communities and threatening the ecological integrity of the river corridor.

Multiple agencies and organizations including the Friends of Wilson Creek, Foothills Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy, Western North Carolina Alliance, US Forest Service, NC Forest Service, and NC Wildlife Resource Commission are joining together to address non-native invasive plants within the Wilson Creek Wild and Scenic River Corridor and initiate management efforts.

Volunteers are being sought to assist in management efforts. The June 2 workshop will introduce the project, train participants on the identification of target plants, demonstrate best control techniques, and discuss incentive programs for private landowners.  To register for the event or receive more information, call 828-437-9930 or akota@foothillsconservancy.org.

Last Minute Memorial Day Rentals: Maggie Valley Getaway

Maggie Valley Mountain View Vacation Rental - 2 bedroom, 2 baths, sleeps 4. Hot tub, fireplace 2 master suites, covered deck with gas grill, WIFI. Easy paved access only minutes from golf, Cataloochee Ski Area and other Maggie Valley attractions. $140 night, $725 week.   See rental photos and availability

Find local information on the Maggie Valley NC Visitor Guide

WNC Chefs Challenge for 5-22-12

May 22  WNC Chefs Challenge Knife & Fork vs. Never Blue Tapas Bar and Grill Food and sport combine for the ultimate food fight. The Challenge brings together 14 leading chefs from the region and one secret ingredient in weekly battles each Tuesday from March 20 - May 22.

Diners enjoy six plated culinary creations (three from each team) that incorporate the secret ingredient and score each dish. The votes from the audience and a panel of professional chefs, journalists, and culinary experts are tallied. A winner is announced at the end of the night and continues to the next round of competition.

Get a link for the Chef's Challenge and other Asheville events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

Step Back in Time Today in Old Fort NC

May 19-20    Spring Muster   Historical interpretation depicting life on the western North Carolina frontier during the 1700s. Enjoy period crafters and demonstrations.  Revolutionary War-era re-enactments performed throughout the day. Held at Davidson's Fort Historical Park.
Events include:  Militia soldiers, weapons demonstrations, Indian traders and craftsmen. South Carolina author Christine Swagger Sutlers will be available for questions and info. Saturday hours are 10 AM - 5 PM, Sunday hours 1 PM - 5 PM. $3.00 for adults, $2.00 for children.


May 19   3 PM - 5 PM   Classic Car Cruise-in   Held the 3rd Saturday of every month. Bring your car, truck or motorcycle to downtown Old Fort. This is a FREE event  Sponsored by Route 70 Cruisers.

Freinds of the Smokies Calls for National Trails Day Volunteers

Volunteer with Friends of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Saturday, June 2nd for  American Hiking Society's 20th National Trails Day / 16th Annual Appalachian Trail Workday

EVENT: America's Largest TRAILgating Party
DATE: Saturday, June 2, 2012
TIME: 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
LOCATION: Between Icewater Springs Shelter and Silers Bald AND  NE and SW of Low Gap
MORE: Registration Info and Offical Form HERE

Nunsense Opens this Week at the Flat Rock Playhouse

May 17- June 10   Nunsense A musical comedy that is downright "habit-forming!” Winner of four Outer Critics Circle Awards including Best Off-Broadway Musical with its original New York production, this hilarious international hit continues to play to sold-out audiences of all faiths around the world.

The Little Sisters of Hoboken are having a fundraiser to bury the sisters accidentally poisoned by the convent cook. Updated with new jokes; additional lyrics; two new arrangements; and a brand new song, this zany musical is an unforgettable night of entertainment. Evenings Wed-Sat 8:00PM, Matinees Wed, Thurs, Sat & Sun 2:00PM

Mother's Day Weekend Events: Téada performs tonight at Diana Wortham in Asheville

May 11, 8 PM at Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S Pack Square in downtown Asheville NC. Téada (meaning "strings" in the Irish language) returns to the Diana Wortham Theatre to belt out the vibrant, traditional music of Ireland that it so deftly plays. 

The band is delighted to announce its newest member, legendary Irish accordion player, singer, and eager storyteller, Séamus Begley. Experience one of the first opportunities to see the band perform with its brand new line-up, right here in Asheville!  Téada's Asheville performance is presented in partnership with The Swannanoa Gathering at Warren Wilson College. 

Last Minute Mother's Day Weekend Getaways

Great location and Peaceful Mountain Views - 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps up to 10. Large deck with dining and gas grill, stone fireplace, ping pong, video games, WIFI,  jetted bathtub. $199 - $325 night, $995 - $1595 week. 10 minutes to  downtown Weaverville NC, 2o minutes to Asheville.     See photos or reserve cabin

  Villa at Sugar Mountain’s Reserve - 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps 4. Gorgeous mountain views from the deck, stone gas fireplace, HDTV and WIFI, jetted bathtub, loft. The Reserve offers walking and parking ski access to the Sugar Mountain slopes.   See condo photos or book now 

Sugar Mountain condo with hot tub - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 4. Mountain views at 5200 feet. Individual deck with hot tub, fireplace. Located in the Reserve with community access to the Sugar Slopes. $245-$350 night, $1250 week.    See condo photos or make a reservation

Newer Sugar Mountain Condo with incredible views - 2+ bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps up to 7. Long range mountain views, deck, jetted bathtub,  gas fireplace, upscale furnishings. Locate in The Reserve with walking access to the Sugar ski slopes. $245 - $350 night, $1100 week.       See photos and reservation details

Spectacular mountain views from all rooms - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 8. Wood-burning fireplace, 3 decks on 3 levels to enjoy the views, WIFI. Club privileges.  Great location  in Mariah IV Condos. . $150 - $200 night, $650 - $1400 week. Beech Mountain NC.       See townhome pictures and rental details

Vacation Apartments in Asheville Restored Victorian - 1 bedroom suites, sleeps 2. Walk to downtown Asheville shops and restaurants. Fully furnished suites with modern kitchens, TV, WIFI. Onsite laundry facility. SPECIAL OFFERED May 1-24.      See rental photos or book now

Find more last minute Mother's Day Weekend Rentals 

on the Cabin Availability List

Mother's Day Weekend Event: Art and Gardening, a natural combination

Claude Monet "Monet Painting in his Garden"

May 12-13   3rd Annual Tryon Art in Bloom   Take Mom on a tour of five spectacular local gardens with local artists painting on site. The garden tours are held  in partnership with local garden clubs and proceeds  benefit Tryon Fine Arts Center, Garden & Art Bazaar in downtown Tryon and Landrum.
Downtown Tryon and Landrum will come alive with vendors of plants of all sizes and colors. Proceeds benefit TFAC’s ArtScapes project to bring public art to Tryon,  Landrum and Columbus.

Sunday, May 13, 4:00 PM at the Tryon Fine Arts Center Sculpture Exhibit view sculpture indoors and outdoors by local sculptors of national and regional stature. Enjoy the Landscape Lecture and Garden Party Lecture by Sally Barnet Spanger, Editor of the Garden Clubs of America Bulletin.

Learn more about Tryon the Tryon NC Visitor Guide

Mother's Day Events: Creative Event in the RIver Arts District

May 12   Oh Mother! at the Odyssey Center located in Asheville;s  River Arts District. A celebration of Mother's Day at the center for ceramic arts. 10 AM - 6 PM all day events include a Raffle to win a piece of art by Michael Parry; Delicious Refreshments; Over 40 featured Artists; Gifts for Mom complete with flowers and wrapping. Live music by Maggie and the Romantics.

Two of WNC's favorite Family Parks offer Special Programs for Mother's Day Weekend

May 12-13   Shutterbugs Nature Photography Workshop at Chimney Rock Park. Capture spring wildflowers, 75-mile views and a 404-foot waterfall with your camera at Chimney Rock. The instructor, Les Saucier, has led nature photography workshops for more than 26 years, participates in many juried shows and has had his work published in numerous books and magazines, including National Geographic. This This 2-day workshop includes classroom time, field time and critique.

May 11-13  Naturalist Weekend  at Grandfather Mountain. Three days filled with guided hikes and special presentations on the birds, wildflowers and nature of Grandfather Mountain. The activities and programs are included with regular admission. Naturalist Weekend is a fascinating collection of programs and guided walks offered to help guests discover more about the diversity of life at Grandfather Mountain.

Get additional information about mountain parks on the NC Parks Guide

Vote for Asheville in "Beer City USA" Title

The polls are now open to vote for Asheville in the Beer City USA poll. According to a recent Asheville Citizen-Times article, there are differing opinions on whether Asheville should continue to fight for the title. From a destination marketing standpoint, a win is good for national press (and business) and a useful calling card as Asheville continues to promote its culinary and craft beer attributes. Most local businesses and residents are in favor of continuing to pursue the title.

The competition is a bit tougher this year with other NC cities now on the ballot.  Current poll standings show a new contender Grand Rapids, MI, inching ahead. With a population almost 3 times larger than Asheville, the city's fans will have to dig deep this year.

Help Asheville stay #1 and take a moment to vote. Then share the link with family, friends and colleagues. Only one vote per email/IP address  is allowed- so  forward this to your personal email and vote from your home computer or mobile phone, and feel free to share it on your Facebook and Twitter pages.

VOTE HERE

Mother's Day Weekend Events: Airing of the Quilts in Franklin

May 12      Airing of the Quilts   Franklin NC stores and churches will be decorated with quilts. The Downtown Square will features exhibits by the Smoky Mountain Quilters guild, Macon county Quilt Trail, Macon County Art Association, and various community development clubs. The Town of Franklin antique fire truck will also be decorated and on display.

A quilting workshop featuring Jane Hall will be held on May 11 offering participants the secrets to making the gorgeous "Mariners compass" block. Ms Hall has lectured and taught quiltmaking for guilds and quilt conferences in the United States and abroad for twenty-five years. She is an author and quilt designer as well as a teacher, judge, and appraiser for antique and contemporary quilts. Early registration is recommended with only space for only 20 participants. 

Franklin  and Macon County is the newest addition to the Western North Carolina Quilt Trail. The Trail initiative began in Western North Carolina in 2006 in Madison and Ashe counties when Handmade in America made a grant to the counties to get the project started. Over 100 quilt blocks now are hosted in Madison and Ashe alone. The Macon County Quilt Trail, currently with 20+ "quilts" was started by seed money from the Franklin Tourism Development Authority and the Franklin Tourism Development Committee.

Hundreds of quilts will be "airing" all over Franklin's downtown, at quilt trail block locations and at private residences all around Macon County. In addition, look for Quilt Related vendors, enjoy the free antique quilt show at Town Hall, get your quilt appraised and more!

Get more local information on the Franklin NC Visitor Guide.

WNC Chefs Challenge this week between Boca and 12 Bones Smokehouse

May 8   WNC Chefs Challenge   Boca vs. 12 Bones Smokehouse   Food and sport combine for the ultimate food fight. The Challenge brings together 14 leading chefs from the region and one secret ingredient in weekly battles each Tuesday from March 20 - May 22.  Diners enjoy six plated culinary creations (three from each team) that incorporate the secret ingredient and score each dish. The votes from the audience and a panel of professional chefs, journalists, and culinary experts are tallied. A winner is announced at the end of the night and continues to the next round of competition.

Get a link for the WNC Chef's Challenge and other Asheville events and attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

Go Fish - in Marion

May 7   Annual Walleye Fishing Tournament The Third annual event, formerly the Thomas E. McDivitt and Bill Lee Memorial Walleye Tournament. Entry fee $25.00 per person. Monetary prizes awarded in various categories as well as drawings for other prizes. Lake James, Black Bear Access, Marion.

What to do this weekend in the Mountains

May   4 - WAYNESVILLE  Art After Dark   The first Art After Dark for the 2012 season.  Participating galleries & studios remain open until 9 pm on this evening with special artists showings, displays, and refreshments. Look for the WGA group flag   READ MORE...

May 4  - MURPHY  Murphy Art Walk   Held the first Friday from May through November, 5:00 PM. - 8:00 PM. Stroll through historic downtown Murphy for an exquisite visual, culinary, and performing arts experience with more than 20 businesses participating, including: Art Galleries, Live Music, Fine Dining, Live Craft Demonstrations and  READ MORE..

May 4-6 - TRYON   Art Trek Tryon  Approximately 40 artists in Tryon, Saluda, and Columbus, NC and Landrum, SC open their studios to the public. Trekking begins on Friday evening, May 4, and continues through Sunday, May 6. Saturday studio hours are 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday hours are 12 noon to 4 pm. Enjoy dining at READ MORE...

May 5  - NORTH WILKESBORO  Dreams & Kitestrings - 5K Family Walk/Run The race starts between 8 and 8:30 AM on the Greenway behind the Express YMCA. The mission of Dreams and Kitestrings is to provide women and children the wings to soar by  READ MORE..

May 5  - NORTH WILKESBORO  8th Annual Shine to Wine Festival  An event featurig some of the best wine North Carolina has to offer as well as live music, art and food. Freeport Jazz is back by Popular Demand. Amazing artist and galleries in the downtown area. Hotel  READ MORE..

May 5  - OLD FORT   ArtsMart  Locally created arts and crafts displayed inside the historic Old Fort Depot. Stop by to chat with the creators of these one-of-a-kind items while you shop for yourself, family or friends. Something for everyone including baskets, paintings, woodwork, wreaths, candles and  READ MORE..

May 5-6 - RHONDA  Vineyards of Swan Creek Wine and Cheese Festival Join the Vineyards of Swan Creek as each vineyard pairs one of their wines with a unique, local cheese from the Ashe County Cheese Factory. The Vineyards of Swan Creek include Raffaldini Vineyards, Dobbins Creek Vineyard,  READ MORE..

May 6  - WAYNESVILLE  78th Annual Ramp Festival An afternoon celebration featuring live bluegrass music, clogging, and food featuring ramps, a wild onion that grows in the mountains. READ MORE..  

Party Your Asana Off Tonight at The NC Aboretum

May 3, 6 - 9 PM: “Party Your Asana Off”, a fundraiser benefitting Asheville Community Yoga. The events will inlcude  an amazing array of entertainment, food and drinks - all guaranteed to last all night. Upon entry, enjoy the sounds of strolling fiddler Cailen Campbell. Then dance the night away with music provided by Asheville’s top DJ’s from Sound Extreme; making dance a key element of the party. Clan Destiny Circus will ramp up the fun with performances by their acrobalancers, stilt walkers and hoopers. Town Mountain Massage will offer donation based chair massages. 

 

Food, beer and wine are included with your ticket price - enjoy beer from Catawba Valley Brewing Company, Alamos wine and tables full of food from a variety of generous donors including Hickory Nut Gap, Zen Sushi and Roots. Bring your checkbook! There will be a raffle with over forty awesome items on which to bid.

 

Tickets are only $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Attendance is limited to 300 and a sellout is likely. This year, you need to purchase your tickets in advanced to receive the discount. Click Here to buy your tickets now. RSVPs on Facebook will not give you the discount at the door. Together we can help keep Asheville Community Yoga sustainable by attending this event, because 100% of the proceeds goes directly to the nonprofit.

 

The NC Arboretum is located on Brevard Road (Hwy 191), just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville NC. Parking is free for attendees.

 

Asheville Visitor Center now offers Online Shopping

Looking for some great Asheville souvenirs? During your Asheville visit, you can find a wide selection of items at the Asheville Visitor Center. However, if you didn't get a chance to stop by the Center, you can still get  some great Asheville branded merchandise through their new online store.

Items currently available are hoodies, t-shirts, mugs and art. New items will be added to the list over time so, check the site often.  Get a link for the Online Shop on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

Chimney Rock's Outcropping Trail Re-opening a Big Hit with Visitors

Chimney Rock Park just reopened the Outcroppings trail on April 14 and the elevator grand reopening should be in the next couple months. There are countless wildflowers and plants in bloom, brightening the lush green Park with vibrant orange, red, blue and violet. Spring is one a beautiful time of the year at the Park, enhanced this year by the   new and improved amenities.

Outcroppings Trail Reopening: Park guests have marveled at and hiked the rebuilt Outcroppings Trail for the first time. Some of the comments are that it's more user- and dog-friendly, easier to hike and has even better views. There are lots of smiles, hikers catching their breath (for the views, of course), families having fun and even a couple victory shouts from the top of the Chimney. Once again visitors can  stretch their legs and admire views of the Gorge  from 2,480 feet at Exclamation Point, some 1,350 feet above the valley floor.

Chimney Rock Park has extended their thanks to NC State Parks, its supporters and the contractors, engineers, etc., who have been working hard on these improvements for years, from planning to execution.  They are also  'relieved' to announce that the rest rooms are completed and open again for use. They are now all handicap accessible and have new water-conserving fixtures. The Park muralist Clive Haynes returned last week to touch up the elaborate murals on the interior walls, and they're looking great.
The modernized elevator and Sky Lounge Gift Shop and; Deli are expected to reopen sometime in the next couple months.  If you want to be one of the first to ride the elevator, enter the Get Elevated (Again) contest, now with an extended deadline to May 16.  Win Annual Passes for your family, $200 in gift certificates and an "official first ride" on the elevator. The Park is looking for a family with a multi-generational connection to Chimney Rock to be among the first folks to ride our elevator when it officially reopens. A child, parent, grandparent – and even great-grandparent – from the winning family will be invited to ride the elevator at our grand reopening ceremony later this spring. The lucky family will also receive $200 in gift certificates for dining and retail in the Park and a free Annual Pass or one-year renewal for each immediate family member! Visit the Contest page to learn more and enter to win!

Get a link and learn more Bout Chimney Rock Park on the Chimney Rock NC Visitor Guide

Getaway to Asheville for Mother's Day

Asheville Chalet with 50 mile views - 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps up to 12. Nestled on the side of a mountain with panoramic vistas. Hot tub, hammock, HDTV, WIFI, children's playhouse and playground, gas fireplace. 10 minutes to downtown!  $250 - $295 night, $1650 week. 

 See photos and check availability

WNC Chefs Challenge Continues Tonight in Asheville

May 1    WNC Chefs Challenge   Inn on Biltmore Estate vs. Storm Rum Bar  Food and sport combine for the ultimate food fight. The Challenge brings together 14 leading chefs from the region and one secret ingredient in weekly battles each Tuesday from March 20 - May 22. 

Diners enjoy six plated culinary creations (three from each team) that incorporate the secret ingredient and score each dish. The votes from the audience and a panel of professional chefs, journalists, and culinary experts are tallied. A winner is announced at the end of the night and continues to the next round of competition. 

Get a link for the Chef's Challenge on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide