"The Sapphires" Starts Today at th Flat Rock CInema

May 31 - June 6 - The Flat Rock Cinema, 2700 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock NC - The Sapphires, based on a true story, opens with showings at 4 PM and 7 PM. Doors open 40 minutes before showtime. All shows are $7.50. Reservations are recommended, but not usually required.

The Sapphires has been described as " pure joy", "A slick, soul powered Movie" and "Packed with Laughs! This gem of a movie will make your heart sing". Inspired by a true story, THE SAPPHIRES follows four vivacious, young and talented Australian Aboriginal girls from a remote mission as they learn about love, friendship and war when their all girl group The Sapphires entertains the U.S. troops in Vietnam in 1968.

The Flat Rock Cinema is your affordable, locally-owned friendly bistro cinema featuring great food, cocktails and local brews.

Annual Gourd Artist Gathering in Cherokee this Weekend

May 30 - June 2   11th Annual Gourd Artist Gathering  The event features 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 stunning works of gourd art, materials, tools and supplies.

Come see how an inexpensive, traditionally utilitarian component of the Cherokee household is transformed into a piece of artwork. Admission is free.

Cherokee Trout Fishing Tournament this Weekend

May 31 - June 2   Cherokee's Memorial Holiday Trout Fishing Tournament   This fishing event is a tagged fish tournament with a total purse of $10,000. A tagged fish can be redeemed for its corresponding prize value by turning in the tag to the prize distribution booth located at the Artists Row on Aquoni Road across from the Kentucky Fried Chicken. 

All persons fishing during the tournament must possess and have on their person while engaged in fishing both an event permit and a valid Tribal fishing permit. An enrolled member’s enrollment card shall serve as his/her fishing permit. 

Contact information for visitors/guests: Cherokee Chamber of Commerce, Address: 1148 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, Phone:(828) 497-6700. Cherokee Fisheries and Wildlife Management, 1840 Painttown Rd., Cherokee NC 28719, Phone (828) 497-1826

Get a link for the Trout Fishing Tournament , local lodging and information on the Cherokee NC Visitor Guide.

Annual Tastes of Avery this weekend

May 30  3rd Annual Taste of Avery   Enjoy delicious samplings from more than 16 of Avery counties finest restaurants as well as six local farms that will be showcasing some of their fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. With something yummy for every taste and palate, you won’t want to miss this event…But hurry as tickets sold out last year and are going fast now.

The event is held at The Best Western Lodge, Highway 184 in Banner Elk NC. Participating food and beverage,  businesses include:
1861 Farmhouse
Alpen Restaurant
Avery High Culinary Program
Carolina BBQ
Dunk & Grind Dounuts
Earth Fare
Famous Fast Eddies
Linville River Merchantile
Nick's Restaurant and Pub
Subway
The Painted Fish Cafe'
The Ugly Mug
Valle De Bravo
Blind Squirrel Brewery 
Grandfather Vineyard
Linville Falls Winery
Plus local producers: Andy's Produce,  Avery Farms, Blind Quirrel Brewery. Pluktree Vineyards 

The Best Western PLUS Mountain Lodge is PET FRIENDLY - 100 recently remodeled guest rooms with cable TV and WIFI. Outdoor heated pool, laundry, game room, business facilities. Free breakfast. On site full service restaurant and lounge.    Get best current rates for Best Western Plus Lodge in Banner Elk NC

Memorial Day - A Time to Remember

Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans — the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) — established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. It is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country.

The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The ceremonies centered around the mourning-draped veranda of the Arlington mansion, once the home of General Robert E. Lee. Various Washington officials, including General and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant, presided over the ceremonies. After speeches, children from the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Orphan Home and members of the GAR made their way through the cemetery, strewing flowers on both Union and Confederate graves, reciting prayers and singing hymns.

Local Observances claiming to be the first Local springtime tributes to the Civil War dead already had been held in various places. One of the first occurred in Columbus, Miss., April 25, 1866, when a group of women visited a cemetery to decorate the graves of Confederate soldiers who had fallen in battle at Shiloh. Nearby were the graves of Union soldiers, neglected because they were the enemy. Disturbed at the sight of the bare graves, the women placed some of their flowers on those graves, as well.

Today, cities in the North and the South claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day in 1866. Both Macon and Columbus, Ga., claim the title, as well as Richmond, Va. The village of Boalsburg, Pa., claims it began there two years earlier. A stone in a Carbondale, Ill., cemetery carries the statement that the first Decoration Day ceremony took place there on April 29, 1866. Carbondale was the wartime home of Gen. Logan. Approximately 25 places have been named in connection with the origin of Memorial Day, many of them in the South where most of the war dead were buried.

The Official Birthplace of Memorial Day was declared in 1966, with Congress and President Lyndon Johnson declaring Waterloo, N.Y., the “birthplace” of Memorial Day. There, a ceremony on May 5, 1866, honored local veterans who had fought in the Civil War. Businesses closed and residents flew flags at half-staff. Supporters of Waterloo’s claim say earlier observances in other places were either informal, not community-wide or one-time events.

By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30 throughout the nation. State legislatures passed proclamations designating the day, and the Army and Navy adopted regulations for proper observance at their facilities.

It was not until after World War I that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, though it is still often called Decoration Day. It was then also placed on the last Monday in May, as were some other federal holidays.

To ensure the sacrifices of America ’s fallen heroes are never forgotten, in December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed and the president signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act,” P.L. 106-579, creating the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance. The commission’s charter is to “encourage the people of the United States to give something back to their country, which provides them so much freedom and opportunity” by encouraging and coordinating commemorations in the United States of Memorial Day and the National Moment of Remembrance.

The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 PM. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. As Moment of Remembrance founder Carmella LaSpada states: “It’s a way we can all help put the memorial back in Memorial Day.”

* Reference:  VA Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs

Carl Sanburg Folk Music on Memorial Day in Flat Rock

May 27   Carl Sandburg Folk Music Festival  The grounds of the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site come alive with folk music which was an important part of Carl Sandburg's life along with his guitar playing and singing as well as his writing.

The 27th annual folk festival honors Carl Sandburg and his preservation of traditional folk music as found in his collection The American Songbag. The festival's performers each skillfully demonstrate the tradition of performing live music to tell stories while capturing the heritage of America through song.

This year's festival features The Shivers playing old time music, Charles Wood on banjo, Pat Corn and Buddy Davis performing bluegrass and folk music, Pop Ferguson and the Blues Revue, and Celtic musician Jamie Laval.

Learn more about Flat Rock NC HERE.

Waynesville Block Party Tonight - they're Dancin' in the Streets!

May 25   Block Party     Downtown Waynesville is Alive at Night. Bring your dancing shoes and a chair and head to Main Street for an evening of live music featuring oldies and goldies, bluegrass, country rock, and more. "Kids on Main" children's activities for our younger downtown visitors are held prior to the party from 6:00 - 7:00 pm. There will be treats on the street and downtown restaurants are open. No animals allowed at downtown events.

Get links for Waynesville Restaurants, attractions and lodging HERE.

Memorial Day Weekend Events: White Squirrel Festial - one of the favorite Spring Music Festivals

May 24-26   The White Squirrel Festival  -  Go Nuts in Downtown Brevard NC, "Where Music Meets the Mountains". Two days of free, live music and nutty family fun with a special evening concert Friday night by Jupiter Coyote and Sol Driven Train. 

The Festival includes more than 16 free concerts, with headliners Acoustic Syndicate and Shannon Whitworth. This anniversary year's event promises to be even bigger and better than ever - with the Memorial Day Parade, Annual Squirrel Box Derby, white squirrel guided tours, white squirrel exhibit, children’s village and white squirrel photo contest.

Also back this year is the Annual 5K/10K White Squirrel Race/Competitive Walk, along with a 1-mile kids' fun run. Find out why the White Squirrel Festival was voted "Best Spring Music Festival in Western North Carolina".

Get a link for The White Squirrel Festival and other local events on the Brevard NC Visitor Guide.

Looking for more to do in the NC mountain on Memorial Day Weekend?  CLICK HERE for dozens of events and festivals on our NC events Calendar. 

Mountain Art and Crafts Festivals, Tours and Shows for the Memorial Day Weekend

You'll find lots of mountain arts and crafts and outdoor festivals this holiday weekend throughout Western North Carolina. Get links for Festival details and more Memorial Day Weekend events on the NC Events Calendar.

May 24
NC City: BREVARD
Event: 4th Friday Gallery Tour An evening of Art, Wine and Food in Downtown Brevard. Every 4th Friday of the month, from May through December. 5-9 PM.  Get a link to read more...

May 24-25
NC City: BRYSON CITY
Event: Swain County Heritage Festival This two day festival has it all. Friday night entertainment is loaded with local talent featuring an emphasis on old time gospel music. Saturday entertainment is classic country and bluegrass, clogging and Indian hoop dancing. In addition to music, the festival offers local arts and crafts, food, games for the kids, a log-sawing contest and fun for the whole family. The event takes place form 6 PM - 9 PM Friday and 10 AM to 6:30 PM on Saturday at Riverfront Park on Mitchell Street,  Get a link to read more...

May 25 - 26
NC City: HENDERSONVILLE
Event: 20th Annual Garden Jubilee Festival The Garden Jubilee features more than 200 vendors selling thousands of plants, arts and crafts, garden talks and clinics, garden accessories, and food. This downtown festival covers 8 blocks of Main Street from Sixth Avenue-Caswell Street. Local and regional nurseries will be selling 1000s of annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs and hard-to-find plants on every block of the festival. The festival is always held during the Memorial Day weekend.   Get a link to read more...

May 25-27
NC City: LAKE LURE
Event: Lake Lure Artists Show Foothills artisans present their "Art at the Beach" Fine Arts and Crafts Show and Sale. The event begins at 10:00 AM and ends at 4:00 PM. Enjoy browsing and shopping through a wide selection of original paintings, drawings, photography, prints, fine crafts, jewelry, pottery and sculpture.   Get a link to read more...

May 25-27
NC City: BANNER ELK
Event: Banner Elk Herb Festival The annual Banner Elk Herb Festival takes place at the Historic Banner Elk Elementary School. The Herb Festival offers a vast selection of herbs you' won't find elsewhere. There will be well over 5,000 herb plants for sale, a fantastic fragrant “sea of herbs. All the herb plants are organic and planted in biodegradable pots. About 60 vendors sell their products at the festival. In addition to herbs, arts, crafts and food items will be available. Attendees can purchase pottery, fine art, portrait photography, goat cheese and homemade herb bread to name just a few items. A “kid zone” includes a petting zoo, old-fashioned games, spin art, a putt-putt course and a dunking booth where festival goers can dunk a fireman. The festival raises money for the volunteer firefighters of Banner Elk. Attendees can purchase a Banner Elk Community Supporter Sticker for any amount, and all proceeds go to the firefighters. The festival will also feature live music.  Get a link to read more...

May 25 -26
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: Kenilworth Art Studio Tour Twenty-two artists invite you into eleven neighborhood studios & galleries. Browse and/or purchase original artwork. Kenilworth Artists Association is a community of artists in one of Asheville's oldest neighborhoods, with a lovely mix of grand homes, modest bungalows and mature gardens. Over forty aspiring and professional artists live in the five square mile neighborhood just minutes from downtown. Each year, many of these artists open their doors to the public for a festive tour that attracts shoppers and art lovers alike. 10 AM - 5 PM both days.   Get a link to read more...

May 26-27
NC City: HIGHLANDS
Event: Village Square Craft Show Annual Memorial Day Weekend art and crafts show in downtown Highlands. The show features fine art and whimsical folk art, plus high-quality crafts such as fine wood work, metal work, quilts, birdhouses, and twig furniture. As usual, you will find one-of-a-kind baskets, pottery, and jewelry. The show has over 65 vendors.   Get a link to read more...

Asheville Cabin Rental Special this Memorial Day Weekend

Carolina Mornings is offering a last minute special for Asheville cabin and vacation rentals  - book 3 nights and get $75 off your stay.  USE CODE FUNMAY when booking. Call NOW  855-597-7354 or visit the website before all the rentals are all full. 

CAROLINA MORNINGS  offers and exceptional selection of 100+ Asheville area cabins and vacation rentals.  Whether you choose to stay in a captivating Blue Ridge Mountain chalet, a Smoky Mountain log cabin, an elegant downtown loft or a luxury vacation villa located at the center of Historic Biltmore Village, you will receive free exclusive activities, personal attention, exceptional service and superior amenities.

These vacation rentals offer spectacular mountain views, hot tubs, fireplaces, WIFI (wireless Internet), pool tables, pet friendly rentals and more. FREE Mountain Discovery Pass for each day you stay!  Enjoy FREE Biltmore tickets, golf, zipline tours, Lazoom Tours and more from Carolina Mornings.

Find more Asheville vacation rentals and cabins on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

Last Minute Memorial Day Weekend Cabin Rentals

Nantahala cabins on 40 acres bordered by a trout stream - 2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 6. Stone gas log fireplace, outdoor grill, large porch with rockers, central H&A, locally crafted furnishings, full kitchen, W&D, flat screen sat. TV+DVD.   $125 night,  $750 week.
             See cabin photos and availability details




Secluded cabin with stream and waterfall - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 4. Two porches overlooking a stream or a waterfall, fireplace, gas grill, WIFI. Private location on 35 acres bordering Pisgah Forest, but close to attractions. $145 - $165 night, $863 - $1081 week.    See rental photos, details and availability 



Mountain View Getaway near Brevard - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 4. Two covered porches to enjoy the private mountain views, fully equipped. Located on 7 acres in a private mountain community. $95 - $125 per night, $645 - $700 per week.                  See rental photos, details and availability  



 
Log Cabin Rental in the Smokies - 2 bedrooms, 2 bath, sleeps 4.  Deck with rockers, picnic table, firepit, fireplace, central heat and air, jetted bathtub, onsite hiking to waterfall. Secluded wooded setting requires 4X4. $125 night, $750 week. 
                               See cabin photos, details, availability


Mountain view modern log cabin - 3 bedrooms +loft, 2 baths, sleeps up to 8. Located on 30 acres with long range views, wrap around decks, gas grill, fireplace, gourmet kitchen, WIFI. 15 minutes to West Jefferson.  $250 night, $1590 week.
                               See cabin photos, details, availability



 Chimney Rock Cabin with beautiful sunrise mountain views - 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, sleeps 6. Covered porch with rockers, grill, gas fireplace, firepit, HDTV, WIFI. $120 - $130 night, $835 week. Located between Chimney Rock and Black Mountain.  
                     See cabin photos, details and rental availability

Get more last minute Memorial Day Weekend
cabins and vacation rentals HERE  

 

Memorial Day Weekend Events: AKC Dog Show in Asheville

May 23-26   AKC Dog Agility Trials  The Blue Ridge Agility Club of Western North Carolina is hosting an American Kennel Club Dog (AKC) dog agility trial. Spectators are welcomed to attend and admission is free. Over 300 purebred dogs, from throughout the southeast, will compete at various levels of difficulty.

Memorial Day Weekend - Vets get FREE Admission at Motorcycle Museum in Maggie Valley NC

May 23-27   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. Over 320 all-American machines are on display, many of which will be fired up throughout the weekend for visitors to enjoy. Machines from the museum's MotorCops exhibit will be being fired up all weekend.

Veterans and Military will receive complimentary admission all weekend.

Wheels Through Time Museum is a consummate collection of over 250 rare antique American Motorcycles and Automobiles. Equally as astounding is the memorabilia collection that unites the "art of the motorcycle" with the generation of Americans that enjoyed a lifestyle peculiar to the "American Mainstream." The thrust of the museum is to educate future generations to a fascinating spectrum of Americana.

Get a link for the Memorial Day Weekend Celebration and Wheels Through Time Museum on the Maggie Valley NC Visitor Guide.

Memorial Day Weekend Events: Ghost Town in the Sky Opens for the 2013 Season

May 25 - Ghost Town in the Sky Opening Day   The historic NC theme park opens its 2013 season under new ownership with a variety of renovations and new adventures. "Level Fun" offers the ziplines at the bottom of Buck Mountain, Chair lift ride, Carousel, Kiddie Rides, Round-up, and the Ghost Town Museum which were opened in 2012.

The 2013 Season expands with "Western Town" including action-packed cowboy gunfights, can-can dancing and live music from Ghost Town's legendary Western Town. Shuttles will be available to transport guests from Level Fun to Western Town. Also new for 2013 are 6-8 artist "Studio" Spaces along with the sale of local art and crafts in the gift shop.

Adult tickets are $24.50,  children $14.95, and those under five are free.

Ghost Town in the Sky is located at 16 Fie Top Road in Maggie Valley NC. Get a link to learn more about Ghost Town on the Maggie Valley NC Visitor Guide.

Spring Girl Scout Day and Optional Campout this Weekend at Chimney Rock

May 18 - 19   Spring Girl Scout Day and Optional Campout   The annual spring program not only has a day of fun and educational programs but also the rare opportunity to camp beneath the stars at Chimney Rock Park. A variety of programs includes Wildflower Watercolor, Wilderness First Aid and Touch-Me-Not.

Warren Wilson College Receives 2.2 Million Grant for Craft Courses

Warren Wilson College was awarded a $2.1 million grant by the Windgate Charitable Foundation to enhance its art department with the addition of studio craft and material arts and foster a close partnership between the college and The Center for Craft, Creativity and Design.

According to the Center, "This is an excellent opportunity to enhance an existing strength of the college," Warren Wilson College President Steve Solnick said. "We already collaborate with The Center, and we look forward to doing so more formally and to working with other schools and programs in the area to support the role of craft in our region."

The grant, spanning a three-year period, will foster a close partnership between Warren Wilson and The Center for Craft, Creativity & Design (CCCD). The collaboration will provide a sustainable home for craft education in the region that will be open to students across the nation.

Annual Saluda Arts Festival this Weekend

May 18, 9 AM - 4 PM   The Annual Saluda Arts Festival is one of the favorite NC mountain festivals and attended by 1000s of visitors every year.  Held in historic downtown Saluda this event includes 90 fine artists and skilled craftspeople exhibiting and selling paintings, drawings, wood working, photography, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, stained glass, metal work and more. 

Enjoy watching live demonstrations of artists at work. Children can create their own works of art with this year's  expanded Children's Tent.  There will be live music and entertainment at McCreery Park Pavillion: 
- Jack Roper ~ 11AM- magic show
- Sol Driven Train ~ 12 PM - children's concert
- Clay Ross Band ~1 PM- Brazilian style rhythms
- Sol Driven Train~3 PM-versatile 5 piece band from Charleston, SC. Features rotating lead vocals and multi-instrumental talent


Get a link for the Saluda Arts Festival and learn more about Saluda NC lodging, restaurants and attractions HERE.

 

Ashevillle;s Downtwon After Five Rsumes this Weekend

May 17   Downtown After Five   Enjoy FREE  live music and entertainment in the heart of downtown Asheville. The concert series is every third Friday, May through September, with the goal of encouraging locals and visitors alike  to enjoy downtown Asheville and support local businesses and entertainers.

The event is located on North Lexington Avenue (between Hiawassee and the I-240 overpass). Food and beer vendors will be available.

Find more downtown Asheville events and entertainment on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

LTLT Celebrates Ownership of the Hall Mountain Tract by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

May 31 - An LTLT (Land Trust for the Little Tennessee) project that began in 2005 will culminate with the celebration of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians receiving ownership of the important Hall Mountain Tract overlooking the historic Cowee Mound.

The Wilderness Society was instrumental in securing the project's funding through the newly formed USDA Forest Service Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program.

The Tribe plans to create a scenic hiking trail system through the tract that will exhibit how natural resources were traditionally used by the Cherokee and will also serve as an educational resource for the public, regional schools and youth organizations.

The public is invited to the program that will begin at 11:00 AM with lunch served at noon. It will be held at 7339 Bryson City Road (7.5 miles north of Franklin, NC). In case of rain the event will be moved to the historic Cowee School.

If you would like to attend please RSVP  at (828) 524-2711 ext 305 or send an email.

The Land Trust for the Little Tennessee  helps to conserve the land and water of the Upper Little Tennessee and Hiwasee River Valleys by accepting gifts of land, by promoting conservation easements and, when resources allow, by purchasing at-risk properties. In the Little Tennessee Valley LTLT also leads an active water protection agenda through monitoring stream health, restoring streambanks, and advocacting for water quality protection.

Naturalist Weekend at Grandfather Mountain

 May 17-19    Grandfather Mountain Naturalist Weekend   This year's weekend includes a Naturalist's Nightwalk at 7:30 PM on Friday. A fascinating collection of programs and guided walks offered to help guests discover more about the diversity of life at Grandfather Mountain.

All programs and guided walks offered as part of the Naturalist’s Weekend are included in the price of admission. Those who plan to attend for both Saturday and Sunday should keep to their receipt on Saturday and present that for discount admission on Sunday.  

Grandfather Mountain is the highest mountain in the Blue Ridge Mountain range at an elevation of 5,964 feet. The Mountain is owned by a nonprofit Stewardship Foundation and is operated as a scenic travel attraction and a world-class nature preserve.

Learn more about Grandfather Mountain and other mountain parks on the NC Parks Guide.

Mother's Day Weekend Events: Music on the Mountain Concert Series at Chimney Rock Park

The 2013 Chimney Rock Park concert series, featuring talented bluegrass, folk and Americana bands from across Western North Carolina, kicks off Mother's Day weekend on Saturday, May 11 from noon-3 PM. John Wilkes Boothe and the Black Toothe will open for Taylor Martin's Engine, both from Asheville, NC.

The family-friendly concert will be held at the Park's Outdoor Classroom, the intimate new fresh-air venue on the Meadows. The concert will be held rain or shine, but in the event of rain, it will be moved to the covered pavilion on the Meadows. Limited bench seating is provided at the concert venue, so attendees are encouraged to bring camping chairs or blankets. Concessions will be offered.

Special thanks go to the sponsors who help make this concert series possible: Music City Asheville, Acoustic Corner of Black Mountain, NC, and WNCW 88.7 as a media sponsor. The series continues on August 11 and September 14.

Get a link for the Concert Series and other Chimney Rock Park events on the Chimney Rock NC Visitor Guide.

What's Blooming for Mother's Day Weekend at Biltmore's Festival of Flowers

If you love flowers and gardens a visit to Biltmore this May to enjoy the annual Festival of Flowers, Biltmore Blooms is a must. And if you really want to treat Mom to the gift of flowers, take her to Biltmore this weekend for the most incredible array of native flowers and blooming trees anywhere in the mountains.

Get $10 off your Biltmore admission tickets HERE.

with our Value Rewards Program

What's blooming at Biltmore NOW:

Estate Entry and Approach Road:
Poppies, Calabrochoa, Pansies, Dianthus, Carolina Rhododendron, Fortunes Rhododendron, Azaleas, Doublefile Viburnum, and Burkwood Viburnum 

Shrub Garden:
Japanese Wisteria, Red Buckeye, Kerria, Tree Peony, Azaleas, Vanhout Spirea, Potentilla, Tamarix, Virginia Bluebells, Viburnums, Bladdernut, Cutleaf Lilac, Littleleaf Lilac, Variegated Solomons Seal, Dutchmans Breeches, and Bluestar 

Spring Garden:
Spicebush, Lily Magnolia, Fortunes Rhododendron, Fothergilla, Azaleas, Viburnus, and Red Buckeye
 
Azalea Garden:
Native Azaleas, Evergreen Azaleas, Red Buckeye, Sweetshrub, Carolina Silverbell, Flowering Dogwood, Mayapple, Virginia Bluebells, Bishops Cap, Horse Chestnut, Fortunes Rhododendron, Catawba Rhododendrons, and Florida Anise Tree 

Walled Garden:
Pansies, Poppies, Daisies, Snapdragons, Ornamental Onions, Veronica, Bluestar, Lily Magnolia, Euphorbias, Scabiosa, Tree Peony, Iris, Coreopsis, Bachelors Buttons, Candytuft, Lilacs, and Wisteria
 
Inn on Biltmore Estate:
Dianthus, Baptisia, Horse Chestnut, Azaleas, Fothergilla, Viburnums, Iris, Spirea, and Wisteria
 
Antler Hill Village, Winery and Farm:
Columbine, Azaleas, Fothergilla, Rosemary, Pansies, Candytuft, Viburnum, Kerria, Dianthus, Carolina Gessimine, Snapdragons, Bridal Wreath Spirea, Stock, and Lobelia
 
Conservatory:
Orchids, Hydrangeas, Begonias, Lily of the Nile, Pink Powder Puff Plant, Gerbera Daisies, Crown of Thorns, Oleander, Oxalis, and Little Boy Flower

Mother's Day Weekend Events: Annual Airing of the Quilts, Mother's Day Gemboree and 5K in Franklin

May 11    Annual Airing of the Quilts Springtime has always meant that it was time for spring cleaning and the "Airing of the Quilts" and other bed linens. The tradition is still honored in Macon County. Locals participate by hanging quilts made by mom, grandma, or the other special women in life, on porch railings, fences, businesses and more.

Visitors are encouraged to travel all around Macon County looking for the quilts that are "airing", as well as for the quilt blocks that are a part of the Macon County Quilt Trail. Downtown Franklin will be alive with quilts and have a special celebration from 10 AM - 4 PM.

May 10-12   11th Annual Mother's Day Gemboree   A Gem show featuring dealers from across the United States. Rough and cut gemstones, minerals, lapidary equipment and much more. Sponsored by the Franklin Chamber of Commerce.

May 11    A Mother's Love 5K Run   Mother/Female 5K race entry fee is $10 - Race t-shirts to the first 50 racers. Father/Male 5K race entry fee is $15. Race t-shirts to the first 50 racers. Children (12 and under) entry fee is $5. Race t-shirts to the first 25 children racers. For additional information contact Dave Linn at bringingit2life@yahoo.com. Registration forms available at the Frankln Chamber of Commerce.

Learn more about Franklin NC lodging, dining and attractions HERE.

Mother's Day Weekend Wine Events

Date: May 10 - 11
NC City: NEBO
Event: Days of Wine and Posies Once a year South Creek VIneyards and Wineries joins with neighbor Banner Greenhouses for an exceptional event. Browse and choose fancy flowers and then head across the street to enjoy some fine wine!

It's also National Wine Tourism Day - Mention Wine Tourism Day at the South Creek Tasting Bar and get 10% off all bottle purchases. Additional local wineries will be participating. 


May 11
NC City: RONDA
Event: RagApple Lassie Vineyards Mother's Day Celebration Events include a fun lunch, a wine tasting, and the annual Blessing of the Vines at 2:00 PM.

May 11
NC City: Ronda
Event: Day of Wine and Roses Savor the small of the roses in full bloom. Enjoy a glass of Raffaldini wine as you take a complimentary tour of the gardens surrounding the Villa Raffaldini. This event will be held rain or shine.
May 12
NC City: NEBO
Event: Mother's Day Cupcakes and Fine Wine at South Creek Vineyards and Winery Mom gets a complimentary wine tasting and gourmet cupcakes.

May 12
NC City: Rhonda
Event: Mamma Mia! Mother's Day Celebration Raffaldina Vineyards celebration of all mothers on this special day. All mothers will receive a complimentary "Lady's Kiss" cookie and wine tasting of our Frizzante wine paired with a Baci di Dama, or "Lady's Kiss," cookie. Bring a picnic or create one yourself from our fully-stocked deli.

Get links for details on these and other Mother;s Days events on the NC Event Calendar.

 

Vote for Asheville as Beer City USA 2013

The 2013 Beer City USA poll has officially started and this year Asheville is in the running to hang on to the title, which it has held four years in a row. The poll will run from Monday, May 5 through Friday, May 10 and the winner will be announced on May 13. You may vote once per IP address.

According to Examiner.com, the "BeerCity USA poll highlights the spirit of support local, small town and big city Americans generate on behalf of their communities. BeerCity USA is not a measure of beer quality, number of breweries, volume of beer enjoyed nor any kind of 'best-of-show' measurement."

Vote for Asheville Here

Annual Lake Eden Art Festival Offers Multi-cultural music, arts, dance and more

May 9-12    LEAF - Lake Eden Art Festival (LEAF)  is one of the treasured traditions for families and friends across the southeast. Held annually at at Camp Rockmont in Black Mountain, a weekend at LEAF is the equivalent of going on a year-long multi-cultural music, arts, dance, and outdoor adventures journey to "recharges your batteries". 

Some of the aspects that make LEAF popular is the family friendly atmosphere, the diverse sampling of arts and music, the beautiful setting, and the intimate size.

Get links for Black Mountain NC lodging, restaurants and attractions HERE.

Mother's Day Weekend Events: Annual Tour de Falls in DuPont State Forest

May 11-12 DuPont State Forest Tour de Falls    Tour DuPont State Forest near Brevard NC by bus. Cars and buses are normally not allowed in the forest. The buses will be available in the parking lot on DuPont/Staton Rd. to take visitors to High Falls, Triple Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Lake Julia. The event is sponsored by Friends of DuPont Forest.

The Forest is located near Brevard NC

Stories of Mountain Folk for 5/4/13

Stories of Mountain Folk is produced by Catch the Spirit of Appalachia and archived at Western Carolina University.
Storytelling: Amy takes you back in time to her teenage years with “Junk on Paydays” when she and her siblings spent time together.  Music: “The Twilight Zone Theme Song” by the TV Theme Players.

Creative Corner: Doreyl's guest is tuba player Daniel Isaac Mull, music student at Western Carolina University.   Music: “Tuba Cheer” by the Golden Buffalo Marching Band.

Stories of Mountain Folk: Amy welcomes as her guest, the legendary David Holt, who tells about his life in mountain music, and his upcoming performance for JAM, Junior Appalachian Musicians. Music: "Forked Deer” by David Holt.

Stories of the Cherokee: Robert spends time with Warren Dupree, who shares memories of mother, Betty Dupree, who was instrumental in the beginning of Qualla Arts & Craft Cooperative in Cherokee.  Music: "The Beloved Woman’s Song" by Eddie Bushyhead.

Down Another Road: Judy brings back her three friends—Kristen Vincent, Kelly Banner, and Shelia Kay Adams—and continue with memories of childhood days.  Music: "The Fly Away Horse" by the Butterpats)
Closing Song: "Amazing Grace" by the Cockman Family.

To Listen to Stories of Mountain Folk, CLICK HERE (scroll down to the green box and click the radion button below it.)

Mountain Spirits: Wine Tasting and Spring Releases at the VIneyards of Swan Creek

May 4-5   Vineyards of Swan Creek Spring Wine Release   Join the Vineyards of Swan Creek and taste their spring releases along with a complimentary food sampling. Noon - 5 PM, $25 per ticket. The Vineyards of Swan Creek include Raffaldini Vineyards, Dobbins Creek Vineyard, Shadow Springs Vineyard, and Laural Gray Vineyard.

NC Aboretun hosts the Annual Rhododenron and Azalea Show

May 4-5  -  54th Annual Rhododendron and Azalea Show  Presented by the American Rhododendron Society, South East Chapter, this yearly judged event features hundreds of blooms. Spring and summer blooming rhododendrons and azaleas are some of the weekend favorites. The North Carolina Arboretum is home to the National Native Azalea Collection, and visitors are encouraged to explore the collection, located along Bent Creek, representing nearly every species native to the United States.

The North Carolina Arboretum includes magnificent gardens and miles of woodland trails and continual special events, touring shows and art exhibits. Just as our experience of nature is intimate, visitors to The North Carolina Arboretum connect with plants in personal ways that are as diverse and rich as the land itself.

Whether you enjoy strolling through gardens, exploring exhibits, enriching your mind or hiking and biking, the Arboretum offers activities for all ages.
The NC Aboretum is located a t 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way in Asheville.

Enjoy NC Arts and Crafts this Weekend

May 3
NC City: MURPHY
Event: Murphy Art Walk The Art Walk takes place each first Friday, May through November from 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. Music, Fine Dining, Live Demonstrations and Performances, 

May 3
NC City: WAYNESVILLE
Event: Art After Dark and Saturday Stroll Downtown Waynesville galleries remain open for Art after Dark featuring demonstrations, artist receptions, and special music. Enjoy the Saturday Stroll from 6 PM - 9 PM with live music and great food. Free admission.  

May 4
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, woodwork, wreaths, candles and live demonstrations. Sponsored by Arrowhead Artists and Artisans League. 

May 4-5
NC City: CANTON ( just west of Ahseville)
Event: Blue Ridge Craft Show Join local and regional Appalachian crafters as they showcase their talent. The weekend event is held at Owl Produce on 889 Old Asheville Highway in Canton NC. 

Get links and learn more about this weekend's NC art and Craft shows, art walks and art marts HERE.

The Orchard at Alta Pass Opens for the season this Week

May 1   Live Music and More at the Historic Orchard at Alta Pass   Live music and mountain dancing, storytelling and hayrides, monarch butterfly raising, naturalist tours and birding walks, arts and handwork demonstrations, book signings and more. Every week, Wed-Sun from May through October.

May 4   Ribbon-cutting at The Orchard at Alta Pass   At 12:30 PM there will be an official ribbon cutting to open the 2013 season at the Orchard at Altapass.. Two free live music performances will follow the ribbon cutting. Bring your dancing shoes for some old fashioned mountain fun. Milepost 328.3 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

The Orchard is located at Milepost 328.3 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, between Spruce Pine and Little Switzerland.