Events and Festivals this Weekend in the Mountains

July 15 - 16, 2016 
NC City:  BANNER ELK 
Event:     Annual Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival in July  This juried festival has been serving the community with a unique array of art for over 24 years. Enjoy an eclectic gathering of mountain and international fine artists and master crafters, plus great food and family fun.  

July 15 - 16, 2015
NC City:  SPARTA
Event:    Alleghany Fiddler's Convention   Traditional mountain music that is sure to get your toes tappin’. 40 to 60 bands and over 200 individual compete each year,  The convention is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains at the Alleghany County Fairgrounds with sites available for camping. The convention is held every year on the weekend of the third Saturday in July.

photo courtesy of Alleghany Fiddlers Convention

 July 15 - 16, 2015
NC City:  Spruce Pine
Event:     Spruce Pine BBQ Championship and Bluegrass Festival  The event features a sanctioned professional BBQ competition, a wings contest, public tastings, live bluegrass music, a cornhole tournament, championship clogging teams, craft vendors, BBQ equipment and supplies vendors, local food vendors, the Spruce Pine Skedaddle 5K and Fun Run, a kids play-area.

July 16, 2016
NC City:  BREVARD
Event:     Brevard Music Center Performance: Symphonie Fantastique.  BMC Alumni Robert Moody and Mason Bates light up the WPA stage in one of the season's biggest reunion moments! Sit back and explore Berlioz's "musical expedition into psychedelia," after Bates shares his pair of electronica compositions that take "open-eared listeners to wonderful new places." Ticket holders may attend The PreConcert, a free recital in Thomas Hall, which begins one hour before the performance.

June 16, 2016
NC City:  WILKESBORO
Event:     Candle Light Ghost Tours   Come out for an evening of tales, mystery and haunts at the Candle Light Ghost Tours. Learn about the ghosts that haunt the old buildings that make up downtown Wilkesboro. Visit a cemetery where Civil War Soldiers are buried, stand in the jail cell Tom Dooley spent his last days, and listen to the stories of the haunted Smithey Hotel. Tickets will be sold on the Courthouse lawn at the museum and at the Wilkesboro Open Air Market the Friday before. Tours start at 8 PM 

July 16, 2016
NC City:  BLOWING ROCK
Event:    Art in the Park   A juried arts and craft show featuring 90 artists held in the picturesque downtown park once a  month from May to October. Some of the best local and regional artists and craftspeople showcase their handcrafted jewelry, pottery, fiber, glass, photography, painting and more. Prices for objects, from a handmade postcard to a large piece of furniture, range from $5 to $5,000.

July 16, 2016
NC City:  Just north of Boone in Galax VA
Event:     Blue Ridge Music Center Concert - Carlene Carter & the Reed Island Rounders    The Blue Ridge Music Center Summer Concert Series is performed rain or shine. You are welcome to bring your own picnic basket (NO ALCOHOL please) and encouraged to bring a lawn chair. Phone ticket sales through BRPF Office end at Noon on Friday and are available online up to 12 hours before the concert. The Galax Smokehouse serves BBQ, sides and drinks at each concert. Check the website for details about the performers and concerts

July 16, 2016
NC City:  GRASSY CREEK (near West Jefferson)
Event:     14th Annual Winefest    The Annual River House Winefest includes a Winefest wine glass, tastings from all the wineries, lots of music, and, of course, great River House food. The highlight of the festival will be wine samplings from nine North Carolina wineries: Biltmore, Brushy Mountain, Grassy Creek, Hanover Park, McRitchie, RagApple Lassie, RayLen and Round Peak. The musical lineup is one you won't want to miss from bluegrass to Jazz to soft rock and blues.

July 16, 2016
NC City:  ASHEVILLE  
Event:     Ooh La La Curiosity Market   An outdoor market in Pritchard Park  featuring works by local painters, leather smiths, jewelry makers, potters ,up-cycled crafters, and other curious delights, all beneath the colored canopies of large market umbrellas. In addition to the artists, the market will also feature live local music with up three musical acts performing each Saturday and will include everything from a solo saxophonist to folk, blues, acoustic, and jazz acts. 

July 16, 2016
NC City:  ROBBINSVILLE
Event:     An Appalachian Evening - Mac Arnold    This annual summer concert series offers an ever-changing schedule of bluegrass, folk and old-time mountain music by award-winning artists — quality entertainment for the entire family. Rich in cultural heritage, An Appalachian Evening continues to be a favorite with locals and visitors alike. All concerts at 7:30 pm in the air-conditioned Lynn L. Shields Auditorium.

July 16, 2016
NC City:  BLOWING ROCK
Event:    Tweetsie Railroad Cool Summer Nights   Tweetsie Railroad stays open until 9 PM on Saturday nights. The park will feature special train show rides at dusk producing cool summer memories for families and kids of all ages. Cool Summer nights is included in regular park admission. 

July 16, 2016
NC City:  HENDERSONVILLE
Event:     20th Annual Chalk It Up   The sidewalks of Historic Downtown Hendersonville become the canvas for some outstanding works of art. The event is free and open to five age categories from age 5 and under to age 21 and over. This is an all day event.  

July 16, 2016
NC City:  HENDERSONVILLE
Event:    Rhythm & Brews Concert Series   Held in the Azalea Parking Lot along King Street the music starts at 5 PM with headline acts from 7 PM - 9 PM.  FREE event but seating space is limited.  Beer, wine and food will be available

July 16, 2016
NC City:  OLD FORT
Event:     Classic Car Cruise-in  Held the 3rd Saturday of every month. Bring your car, truck or motorcycle. Downtown Old Fort, 3-5 PM. A  free Sponsored by Route 70 Cruisers.

July 16, 2016
NC City:  ASHEVILLE
Event:    Shindig on the Green   Held outdoors at Pack Square Park in the heart of downtown Asheville, this FREE event  was voted the #1 Local Outdoor Concert in the Mountain Xpress "Best of WNC" survey for four years. Bring your instruments, your lawn chair or blanket, family and friends and join the fun eight summer Saturdays. Performances include Long-standing house band The Stoney Creek Boys Bluegrass and Old-Time String Bands, Big Circle Mountain Dancers, Clog Dancers, Smooth Dancers, Ballad Singers and Storytellers. If you love old time Mountain music and Bluegrass this is the place to be.

July 16, 2016
NC City:  CHEROKEE
Event:     Music on the River   Open-air musical performances by the river Friday and Saturday evenings in downtown Cherokee. Performances include rock n’ roll, blues, jazz, gospel and country, and are staged near local eateries, shopping, and downtown water features with room to dance along.

July 16, 2016
NC City:  CHEROKEE
Event:     Cherokee Bonfire   Spend the evening by a roaring bonfire among Cherokee storytellers and dancers as they tell tales and dance traditional dances of days gone by. Stories often feature native myths, survival skills, and history passed down through generations of the Cherokee people. Dances showcase authentic 17th-century dress and traditional Cherokee music. Enjoy marshmallows for roasting and beverages. 

July 16 - 17, 2016
NC City:  CHEROKEE
Event:     The Tim Hill Memorial trout Tournament    This event is held in honor of long-time hatchery employee Tim Hill. Fish and compete in this fun and lucrative tournament in his name. A portion of the $11 entry fee will be donated to a charity (yet to be determined) to help pay tribute to Tim. You’ll be fishing for your share of $10,000 by catching fish in rivers all across the Qualla Boundary. Open to all ages and for all legal fishing methods. Register to redeem cash prizes anywhere fishing licenses are sold. 

photo courtesy www.visitcherokeenc.com

July 17, 2016
NC City:  BREVARD
Event:     Brevard Music Center Performance: Jan and Beattie Wood Concerto Competition Finals. Gifted BMC high school and college musicians compete for the coveted spotlight positions at BMC's Soloists of Tomorrow concert. 

July 17, 2016
NC City:  ASHEVILLE  
Event:    The Big Crafty returns to Pack Square. The event celebrates and showcases the fine wares of over 100 independent indie crafters, artists and makers. The complete line up of participating artists is available online. This is a free, family-friendly event.

                   

What to do in the Mountains this Weekend

Mountain Music:

July 13
NC City:  BREVARD
Event:      Brevard Music Center Concert: MAHLER Symphony No. 6 in A minor. The Summer Music Festival continues with a 7:30 PM concert with Julian Kuerti, conducting the Brevard Music Center Orchestra. Ticket holders are invited to attend the Pre-Concert Talk at Thomas Hall one hour before this event.   Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 13
NC City:  ASHEVILLE
Event:     River Music Concert Series   Dance under the stars next to the beautiful French Broad River at Asheville's new summer concert series hosted by New Belgium Brewing and RiverLink.  There will be New Belgium beer, a variety of good eats provided by your favorite Asheville food trucks and the waters of the beautiful French Broad flowing right by the stage. Best of all, these events are FREE to the public. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the view of the French Broad River.  Get a link for this and other NC Events
July 13
NC City:  TRYON
Event:     Summer Tracks Concert Series at Rogers Park   This concert features the Russ Wilson Swing Orchestra. The annual concert series offers amazing performers under beautiful, starry skies.  The concert is free, however, a voluntary donation at the gate is encouraged. The donations combined with generous sponsorships provided by local businesses make the shows possible. Food and beverage are sold at the event.  7 PM - 10 PM.  Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 13
NC City:  HENDERSONVILLE
Event:     Music on Main Street   The 14th annual Music On Main Street concert series will be held every Friday evening from June 8 through August 17, 2012. Music On Main Street showcases a diverse lineup of musical talents, from jazz, pop, oldies, rock, to contemporary music. Bring a chair and enjoy the music from 7 PM - 9 PM. Admission is FREE.  Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 14
NC City:  ASHEVILLE
Event:    Shindig on the Green     Held outdoors at Pack Square Park in the heart of downtown Asheville, this FREE event  was voted the #1 Local Outdoor Concert in the Mountain Xpress "Best of WNC" survey for four years. Bring your instruments, your lawn chair or blanket, family and friends and join the fun eight summer Saturdays.   Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 14
NC City:  Just north of Boone in Galax VA
Event:     Appalachian Songsmiths:  Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time / Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road perform at The Blue Ridge Music Center.  Most well-known for his hit song “Murder on Music Row,” eastern Kentucky native Larry Cordle Bluegrass musician concerts, workshops and bluegrass jam sessions in VA knows how to masterfully weave his mountain upbringing and the virtues and vices of the common man into a song.   Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 15 
NC City:  MAGGIE VALLEY
Event:     Maggie Valley Concert Series  Live outdoor concert by the Haywood Community Band. Bring a blanket or a chair, picnic supper and enjoy the beautiful Maggie Valley sunset. Free and open to the public.   Get a link for this and other NC Events

NC Art and Crafts:

July 13
NC City:  WEST JEFFERSON
Event:     West Jefferson Gallery Crawl   Stroll the streets of an historic mountain town, enjoy the cool mountain breeze while listening to the sounds of street musicians and "popping" in and out of West Jefferson's many galleries. Open House in more than 15 art galleries and studios.  Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 14
NC City: BLOWING ROCK
Event: Art in the Park
A juried arts & craft show featuring 90 artists held in the picturesque downtown park once a month from May to October. Some of the best local and regional artists and craftspeople showcase their handcrafted jewelry, pottery, fiber, glass, photography, painting and more. Prices for objects, from a handmade postcard to a large piece of furniture, range from $5 to $5,000.  Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 14
NC City:  ASHEVILLE
Event:     River Arts District Second Saturday   Asheville’s River Arts District Artists open their studios for a day of family friendly fun, educational experiences, live demonstrations and to share their creations. Visit dozens of artists working in all types of media, available for viewing or purchase.  Get a link for this and other NC Events

 July 14
NC City:  HENDERSONVILLE
Event:     Chalk It Up   The sidewalks of Historic Downtown Hendersonville become the canvas for some outstanding works of art. The event is free and open to five age categories from age 5 and under to age 21 and over. This is an all day event.   Get a link for this and other NC Events

Weekend Festivals:

July 13 - 14
NC City:  FLETCHER (ASHEVILLE)
Event:     Carolina Mountain Ribfest   World Class professional barbecue rib vendors from across the country, plus live entertainment, amusement rides, arts and crafts and more. Enjoy mouth watering, award winning BBQ Ribs, Brisket, Pulled Pork and Chicken, with all the traditional side dishes.   Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 13 - 14
NC City:   CHEROKEE

Event:        8th Annual Festival of Native Peoples    The Festival of Native Peoples earned a spot in the top 20 events of the Southeast Tourism Society in 2009. Performer and exhibits includes  pole flyers, dancers, singing, storytelling and art. Members of indigenous tribes from across North and South America captivate audiences with their traditional and contemporary dance, song and celebration. In addition to the unique displays of Native cultures from across the continents, visit the Art Market to barter or buy your favorite handmade Native art.   Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 13 - 15
NC City:  CHEROKEE
Event:     Mid-Summer Trout Fishing Tournament    $10,000 in tagged fish in the rivers on the Cherokee Reservation (excluding the 2.2 miles of catch and release waters) Hundreds of specially tagged fish will be stocked in the Cherokee public fishing waters. When a tagged fish is caught it can be redeemed for cash prizes ranging from $20 to $500 based on the color of the tag. Open to all ages and for all legal fishing methods. Registration necessary to redeem cash prize.  Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 13 - 15
NC City:  HIGHLANDS
Event:     14th Annual Mountains in Bloom Garden Festival   Over 1,000 garden and nature lovers from across the US come together to celebrate. The event features a tour of majestic mountain gardens in the Ravenel community, a flower show that includes flower arrangement, horticulture and photography divisions, an exclusive Benefactor tour of the Southern Highlands Reserve and the always elegant Benefactor Party. Proceeds support The Bascom, a nonprofit visual arts center. Friday-Saturday July 13th -14th Flower Show, Garden Tours, and Luncheon. Sunday July 15th Southern Highlands Reserve Tour and Benefactor Party--For Benefactor Donors Only.  Get a link for this and other NC Events

July 13 - 15
NC City:  HIGHLANDS
Event:    Highlands Motoring Festival  The festival kicks off Friday night at the   Highlands Historical Society with a wine and cheese reception featuring entertainment and attractions relating to the history of the Town of Highlands. Saturday will feature two events: the car show and the Ladies Poker Run. Over thirty awards will be presented to automobiles selected by participant judging. The car show begins at 10:00 AM, and will conclude at approximately 4:00 PM, following the awards presentations. Food and beverages will be available on site at all times. Sunday begins with the annual road rally at 9:30 AM featuring a competitive contest (trivia; not timing) and a beautiful drive thru the mountains.  Get a link for this and other NC Events

June 14-15
NC City:  BREVARD
Event:     Hunger Games Fan Tour   Explore DuPont State Forest and see The Hunger Games movie locations. Learn basic survival skills: orienteering, camouflage, and shelter building. Lunch will be provided in Hunger Games style.  Shuttle service, DuPont State Recreational Forest permit, light Hunger Games lunch and guides provided. Pre-registration required. Cost is $79 per person.  Get a link for this and other NC Events

What to do this weekend in the Mountains - 6-29-12

Mountain Music:

 

June 29
NC City:  HENDERSONVILLE
Event:     Music on Main Street   The 14th annual Music On Main Street concert series will be held every Friday evening from June 8 through August 17, 2012. Music On Main Street showcases a diverse lineup of musical talents, from jazz, pop, oldies, rock, to contemporary music. Bring a chair and enjoy the music from 7 PM - 9 PM. Admission is FREE.  Get a link and details HERE

June 29
NC City:  ASHEVILLE
Event:     River Music Concert Series   Dance under the stars next to the beautiful French Broad River at Asheville's new summer concert series hosted by New Belgium Brewing and RiverLink.  There will be New Belgium beer, a variety of good eats provided by your favorite Asheville food trucks and the waters of the beautiful French Broad flowing right by the stage. Best of all, these events are FREE to the public. Bring your lawn chair and picnic basket and enjoy the view of the French Broad River.  Get a link and details HERE

June 29
NC City:  TRYON
Event:     Summer Tracks Concert Series at Rogers Park   This concert features the Russ Wilson Swing Orchestra. The annual concert series offers amazing performers under beautiful, starry skies.  The concert is free, however, a voluntary donation at the gate is encouraged. The donations combined with generous sponsorships provided by local businesses make the shows possible. Food and beverage are sold at the event.  7 PM - 10 PM.  Get a link and details HERE

June 30
NC City:  ROBBINSVILLE
Event:     An Appalachian Evening - Balsam Range   A Bluegrass , Gospel and Country Music concert. All the fellows in the band grew up in the rich musical heritage of the Appalachian South, surrounded by culture and heritage steeped in traditions of The Grand Ole Opry…as well as the important influences of the Scotch-Irish settlers of the Southern Mountains, English ballads, Western songs…and tunes written by the band members themselves.

Family style dinner is available before the show for $15.95 for adults or $9.95 age 12 and under. Or you can get a lighter meal in the Schoolhouse Café in the main building.  Get a link and details HERE

June 30
NC City:  ASHEVILLE
Event:    Shindig on the Green    Held outdoors at Pack Square Park in the heart of downtown Asheville, this FREE event  was voted the #1 Local Outdoor Concert in the Mountain Xpress "Best of WNC" survey for four years. Bring your instruments, your lawn chair or blanket, family and friends and join the fun eight summer Saturdays.  Get a link and details HERE

June 30
NC City:  Just north of Boone in Galax VA
Event:     Larry Sparks and The Lonesome Ramblers  at the Blue Ridge Music Center   Renowned Bluegrass singer and guitar player, Larry Sparks & the Lonesome Ramblers, return.  Sparks has been at the forefront of the bluegrass scene for over 50 years. His brand new release "Almost Home," on Rounder records, is currently nominated for Album of the Year. Opening up the concert will be the Buckstankle Boys from Mt. Airy, North Carolina.  Get a link and details HERE

June 30 - July 1
NC City:  CASHIERS
Event:     Cashiers Mountain Music Festival 2012   The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce presents the Fourth Annual Cashiers Mountain Music Festival.  Tickets are $25 per day or $40 for a two day pass, children 12 and under are free.  Bring a chair or blanket.  No coolers, pets or firearms.  Fireworks are planned at dark on Sunday, July 1.  Arts, crafts, food, drinks and a children's zone.  Musicians are encouraged to bring instruments for jamming in the park.  There will be a local church barbecue fundraiser on Saturday, June 30.  Get a link and details HERE

 Festivals and Events:

 
June 29 - July 1
NC City:  CHEROKEE
Event:     37th Annual Cherokee Pow Wow  A three-day festival of drum, song and dance with the Eastern Band Cherokee Nation. Hundreds of world-champion dancers will compete for thousands of dollars in prizes at the Acquoni Expo Center. Watch the explosion of color and motion in the arena with the Traditional, Fancy Shawl, Grass, Two Step and Jingle dance competitions.   Get a link and details HERE

June 29 - July 1
NC City:  MAGGIE VALLEY
Event:    Swap Meet and Car Show   Swap Meet, Vendors, Sponsors, Car Show, Food, D.J. and Craft Show. Fun for the entire family.  Fun for the entire family held at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds.  Get a link and details HERE

June 30
NC City:  BEECH MOUNTAIN 
Event:     47th Annual Roasting of the Hog   Celebrate Independence Day at this Beech Mountain annual event. The hog is roasted all day to perfection and cut up right in front of the crowd. With music, moon pies, games, and fireworks, this is a family affair that you won’t want to miss. The roasting will take place  at 6 PM.  Get a link and details HERE

June 30
NC City:  BLOWING ROCK
Event:    Independence Day Festival and Parade   Downtown games, music and the Grandaddy of all small-town parades. FREE event held in Memorial Park and Main Street.  Get a link and details HERE

June 30
NC City:  OLD FORT
Event:     Independence Extravaganza  hosted by Sky Island Retreat and Campground   Fireworks, B.B.Q., live music, face painting, and more! Bring lawn chairs, kids, bathing suits and Patriotism! Gates open at 12:00 p.m., admission is free, parking is $5.00.  Get a link and details HERE 

Arts and Crafts:

June 30
NC City:  ASHEVILLE
Event:     Art in the Park   Artisans working in Glass, Ceramics, Wood, Jewelry, and metal show and sell in a public market setting in the center of Asheville in Pack Square Park. The event takes place on three consecutive Saturdays each June and October. Nationally known artists exhibit at this event and the best part is- they are local. 10% of the proceeds from the event will be donated to a local art non-profit organization.  Get a link and details HERE

June 30 - July 1
NC City:  CASHIERS
Event:     Cashiers Mountain Music Festival 2012   The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce presents the Fourth Annual Cashiers Mountain Music Festival.  Tickets are $25 per day or $40 for a two day pass, children 12 and under are free.  Bring a chair or blanket.  No coolers, pets or firearms.  Fireworks are planned at dark on Sunday, July 1.  Arts, crafts, food, drinks and a children's zone.  Musicians are encouraged to bring instruments for jamming in the park.  There will be a local church barbecue fundraiser on Saturday, June 30.  Get a link and details 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.

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

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..  

Asheville Herb Fest Now in its 23rd Year

May 4-6    23rd Annual Asheville Herb Festival   The WNC Chapter of the NC Herb Association represents the incredibly wide variety of herbalists and herb businesses in North Carolina: herb growers and vendors, natural gardening and landscaping specialists, and makers of herbal ointments, balms, soaps, teas, medicines, and other products. Join more than 25,000 other herb lovers celebrating the 23rd annual Asheville Herb Festival.
The event is held at WNC Farmers Market in Asheville and will include the best selection of herb plants in the southeast. Nearly 60 herb businesses from WNC and Tennessee will participate with the largest selection of herb plants and products anywhere including herbs for cooking, gardening, and medicinal use; herbal soaps, lotions, tinctures, teas, & herbal baked goods, dried herbs & flowers, and herb-related crafts, gifts & books.

There will be an information booth staffed by Buncombe County Master Gardeners and a free shuttle service for transportation  between all parking areas and the festival grounds throughout the day. The event is totally free. The WNC Farmers Market is located at 570 Brevard Road in Asheville, NC,  adjacent to I-40 at Exit 47.

Get a link for the Herb Festival and the WNC Farmers Market on the Asheville Visitor Guide.

What to do this weekend in the mountains, 4-20-12

April 18-22
NC City: CHEROKEE
Event: 2012 Cherokee Thunder Motorcycle Rally Live music, games, prizes, contests, tattoos, a swap meet, burn out pit, bike show and much, much more. Just $25 will get you in for the entire weekend. Enjoy Foghat and Artimus Pyle. Held at the Acquoni Expo Center    Read more...

April 20
NC City: Wilkesboro
Event: Wilkesboro Open Air Market Historic Downtown Wilkesboro's popular Open Air Market events series returns in 2012 starting on April 20 and continues the through August. Events will feature downtown merchants, food vendors, local wineries, musicians, regional farms and produce, arts and crafts, demonstrators, as well as non-profit and civic organizations   Read more...

April 21
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: The 5th annual Asheville Earth Day Festival returns to downtown Asheville in a new location on Lexington Avenue. Set in the exquisite Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, this FREE family friendly festival features musicians from various genres, eco-friendly speakers, a Kids Village, Eco Village, poetry contest and photo contest.   Read more...

April 21
NC City: OLD FORT
Event: Classic Car Cruise-in Held the 3rd Saturday of every month. Bring your car, truck or motorcycle to downtown Old Fort from 3-5 PM. Free event sponsored by Route 70 Cruisers.   Read more...

April 21
NC City: HENDERONVILLE
Event: Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra Presents "Romantic Rhapsodies" Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra features a 70-piece professional orchestra. Guest artist James Dick performs the beloved Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini by Rachmaninoff.   Read more...

April 21
NC City: WILKESBORO
Event: Candle Light Ghost Tours Come out for an evening of tales, mystery and haunts at the Candle Light Ghost Tours. Learn about the ghosts that haunt the old buildings that make up downtown Wilkesboro. Visit a cemetery where Civil War Soldiers are buried, stand in the jail cell Tom Dooley spent his last days, and listen to the stories of the haunted Smithey Hotel.   Read more...

April 21
NC City: Maggie Valley
Event: 23rd Annual Great Smoky Mountain Trout & Heritage Festival The Town of Maggie Valley partners with the Haywood Community College Natural Resources Division and Haywood Waterways to offer: FREE Catch Clinics for kids and FREE Timber Sports Demonstrations   Read more...
April 21
NC City: BRYSON CITY
Event: 8th Annual Nantahala Open The Nantahala Open, dedicated to Team River Runner, is an all day event that begins (10am-3pm) at the staging beach just above Nantahala Falls. At 4-8 PM enjoy The Open House Party at Endless River Adventures featuring The Filling Station Deli, live local music, and Higlands Brew on tap.
April 21
NC City: TRYON
Event: 66th Annual Steeplechase Race at FENCE The Steeplechase is the area's biggest and most exciting equestrian event of the year. Join the crowds that come for the thundering of hooves as they navigate a challenging course over several races. Contestants for best tailgate show off their best country, most unusual and most elegant.  Read more...

April 21
NC City: FLAT ROCK
Event: Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra presents "Romantic Rhapsodies" The Orchestra features a 70-piece professional orchestra. Guest artist James Dick performs the beloved Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini by Rachmaninoff. The HSO offers Hugo Alfven’s Swedish Rhapsody Midsommvarka and Mozart’s Symphony No. 35 Hafner.   Read more...
April 21
NC City: NORTH WILKESBORO
Event: Wilkes River Run 5K / 8 K The Wilkes River Run 5K/8K route will incorporate the Greenway from Brushy Mountain Dental to the Reddies River trail.   Read more...

April 21
NC City: MAGGIE VALLEY
Event: The Plot Fest A celebration of WNC heritage and the state dog that originated in Haywood County. Bluegrass & local artisans along with Haywood Community College Natural Resources Division and Haywood Waterways offer: FREE Catch Clinics for kids.  Read more...

April 21
NC City: NEBO
Event: Cruise In at South Creek Vineyards Do you own a classic car or just like to look at them? The British Car Club of Western North Carolina will participate, but we’re open to all Sports Car Enthusiasts. Cruise on over to the vineyard in your classic or just come and see them!  Read more...

April 21
NC City: HENDERSONVILLE
Event: Henderson County Barbeque Expo A family festival with vendors, BBQ cooking competitions, children's activities, arts & crafts, and entertainment.  Read more...

April 21-22
NC City: CHIMNEY ROCK
Event: Spring Homeschool Campout Enjoy a field day then camp out under the stars, share stories and s’mores ‘round the campfire and learn about critters that come out at night. Join education specialists for fun, interactive programs in a 1000-acre classroom where learning comes alive.  Read more...