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Summer brings so many great festivals and events to Asheville and the western North Carolina mountains, including our many small towns. Here are our favorites! Also, see special features for Memorial Day Weekend and July 4th Week. For events throughout the year, see our list of seasonal calendars.
June, July & August Events & Festivals, Asheville & NC Mountains
June - Emerging Artist Exhibit at the Folk Art Center
Haywood Community College Professional Crafts Program and the Southern Highland Guild present the Graduating Class of 2026 Exhibit. Emerging artists display work in fiber, wood, clay, and metals… More Information
Summer Drum Circle
Hear and feel the beat at the weekly drum circle every Friday night in downtown Asheville in Pritchard Park from April-October. And dance the night away!
FAB Fest, Summer Dates
FAB Fridays run from April-October, featuring the best in local Food, Arts, and Brews (FAB) on Central Street in Downtown Rutherfordton. Come out for live music, a variety of food trucks, beer,… More Information
Othello, Montford Park Players - Asheville
Othello, Shakespeare's tragedy of jealousy and betrayal, comes to life under the summer sky at the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre. Bring a lawn chair, picnic basket, and bug spray. Hat passed at…
Drum Circle
Hear and feel the beat at the weekly drum circle every Friday night in downtown Asheville in Pritchard Park from April-October. And dance the night away!
Concerts on the Creek, Sylva
Enjoy free outside live music in downtown Sylva every Friday from 7-9 PM starting Memorial Day through Labor Day at Bridge Park, two blocks from Main Street with shops, restaurants, and breweries…
Brews & Bears at WNC Nature Center
Help celebrate the 10th anniversary season of this fun after-hours mini-festival series! Enjoy craft beer, food trucks, live music, and animal programs. Meet resident black bears Uno and Ursa. See…
Groovin on the Green
Groovin’ on The Green are free concerts held rain for shine. They begin at 6:00 pm and last until 8:30 pm. Bring your own law chairs and blankets to The Village Green Common’s Lawn. This is a kid… More Information
Steve Jordan Band at Dancing on the Square, Robbinsville
Everyone is welcome to join in or just listen and watch at Dancing on the Square on Robbinsville's Courthouse Square. Held each Friday night from late Spring through late Summer. Free. All ages.…
Asheville Art in the Park, Summer Dates
June 13, 20, and 27, 2026. From pottery to jewelry, sculpture to two-dimensional art, this art festival brings together a wide array of traditional and contemporary mountain art downtown in Pack…
Spruce Pine Alien Festival
Mitchell County leads North Carolina in UFO sightings and this annual gathering celebrates that out-of-this-world distinction in style. Hear national speakers share encounter and sighting stories… More Information
Bluff Mountain Festival
This free, family-friendly festival in Hot Springs (at the spa) features great old-time and bluegrass music, ballads, clogging, square dancing, as well as a silent auction and raffle of… More Information
Art in the Park, Blowing Rock
Browse work from 100 juried artists at this 63-year tradition! Six shows in 2026 (May 16, June 13, July 18, August 15, September 12, October 3) feature paintings, glass, jewelry, pottery,…
Front Street Arts & Crafts Show
Stroll downtown artsy Dillsboro and interact with more than 40 of the region's best artisans. Browse the many shops and galleries while experiencing some of the area's best restaurants.… More Information
National Get Outdoors Day
The Cradle of Forestry celebrates with free admission and plenty of outdoor activities in Pisgah National Forest near Sliding Rock, including hikes, demos, historic buildings, and kid's…
Sapphire Valley Arts and Crafts Show
This Blue Ridge celebration brings together local artisans showcasing pottery, textiles, woodwork, paintings, and fine jewelry alongside live regional music and family-friendly activities. Kids… More Information
GRINDFest AVL
This free annual festival celebrates black business and entrepreneurship in Asheville. Held in Pack Square Park. Includes music, live performances, talks, workshops, food, local vendors, community… More Information
Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum 60th Anniversary Celebration
Help mark 60 years of this Grovewood Village gem. Tour the collection of vintage automobiles, including a rare 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham and Asheville's own 1922 American LaFrance fire truck…
Concerts in the Park Series, Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock's beloved annual outdoor concert series returns to the Rotary Gazebo in Memorial Park with five free Sunday performances spanning May through September. Family-friendly and casual… More Information
Grandfather Glows Firefly Viewing
Make plans early to attend one of three magical evenings on Grandfather Mountain during peak firefly mating season. Events begin with naturalist-led programs before moving to the viewing area…
Luminere Immersive Nightscapes at Biltmore
Experience Biltmore after dark with illuminated displays across the house and gardens. Arrive before sunset to enjoy picnic dinners and beverages, then watch as projected light and sound transform… More Information
Rhododendron Festival
Two Rhododendron Festivals (North Carolina and Tennessee versions) are held in the Roan Mountain area! The one in Bakersville NC is Friday & Saturday on the third weekend in June. In TN, it's…
June - Downtown After Five
Enjoy great music, food, and beer in downtown Asheville at this free, popular outdoor concert. Held every third Friday of the month from April-September from 5-9 PM. Free admission. Purchase an…
America 250 Celebration at Dancing on the Square, Robbinsville
Join in or just listen and watch at Dancing on the Square on Robbinsville's Courthouse Square. Grammy-nominated bluegrass musician and WNC native Darren Nicholson provides the music while renowned…
Flame Azalea Festival in Robbinsville
This free family-friendly annual festival celebrates the stunning native flame azaleas. For 2026, Chatham County Line is the musical headliner. Experience arts and crafts vendors, live glass blowing, Cherokee demonstrations, and food. Donations to Graham County Fire & Rescue appreciated. 10 am-6 pm.
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Yoga on the Mountain
Be led by experienced movement instructor Shannon Burbridge in a full day of yoga, grounding techniques, a peaceful hike, foot reflexology, and self-myofascial practices at Yoga on the Mountain:… More Information
Stecoah Spring Arts & Crafts Drive-About Tour
A self-guided driving tour through studios and workshops across Swain and Graham counties, including Bryson City. Meet local artisans, watch them work, and shop handmade crafts. Printed maps… More Information
Asheville Stonewall Fest
This all-ages pride festival celebration features live music, pop-up drag shows, comedy, and more. All free, but you must reserve tickets. Kickoff Friday at a rooftop bar, main event Saturday at… More Information
Behind-the-Scenes Tours at Grandfather Mountain
Treat an animal lover to an up-close experience with Grandfather Mountain's resident animals. Hosted by experienced keepers, these tours show where animals sleep overnight and reveal what it takes… More Information
July - Emerging Artist Exhibit at the Folk Art Center
Haywood Community College Professional Crafts Program and the Southern Highland Guild present the Graduating Class of 2026 Exhibit. Emerging artists display work in fiber, wood, clay, and metals… More Information
Cherokee Powwow
Experience the Southeast's largest Native American celebration in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Be amazed by the Grand Entry procession featuring dancers in stunning handcrafted regalia,… More Information
Taming of the Shrew, Montford Park Players - Asheville
One of Shakespeare's most beloved comedies takes the outdoor stage midsummer at the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre. Bring a lawn chair, picnic basket, and bug spray. Hat passed at intermission; free…
Freedom Fest
Experience an old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration and street festival in Bryson City with a 5K, crafts, food, contests, live music, and the best fireworks show in the Smokies.
Fourth of July Celebrations in WNC
You can celebrate Independence Day in Asheville and the mountains of Western North Carolina with fireworks, parades, and festive events. From downtown block parties to lakeside shows and small-…
Fireworks Extravaganza at Tweetsie Railroad, Blowing Rock
Enjoy this top fireworks show in the High Country of Boone, NC! The Wild West theme park will be open for extended hours on July 4 from 10 AM to 9 PM. Fireworks are at 9:30 PM. Fireworks are… More Information
Art on the Greene, July Fourth Weekend
Find a big variety of 40 artists working with metal, glass, pottery, wood, jewelry, and more in downtown Banner Elk. Many restaurants, shops, and things to do nearby. Benefits their historic… More Information
Art on the Greene, Banner Elk
Art on the Greene transforms Banner Elk's historic school grounds into an outdoor gallery featuring 40-60 regional artists. Browse ceramics, glass, metal, and wood work, watercolor, acrylics, and oil paintings in perfect mountain weather at 3,701 feet! 10 am - 5 pm.
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Hot Springs 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks
Spend Independence Day in downtown Hot Springs exploring shops, eateries, and market vendors, then gather for a fireworks display by the Volunteer Fire Department. Watch from downtown or the Hot… More Information
WNC Nature Center hosts Brews & Bears
This is a unique after-hours mini-festival series that is celebrating its 10th year. Enjoy craft beer, food trucks, live music, and animal programs. Meet resident black bears Uno and Ursa. See…
Coon Dog Day Festival
Saluda (about 35 miles south of Asheville) hosts this fun, quirky street festival to celebrate the Coon Dog. This loyal pet was used for many years for hunting and known for its unique bark and an…
Maggie Valley Summer Arts and Crafts Show
Meet 100 artisans and crafters from the Southeast with a wide variety of art outdoors at the Festival Grounds (3374 Soco Road) in Maggie Valley. Held annually the Saturday and Sunday after July 4… More Information
The Big Crafty
Shop 180+ local artists showcasing ceramics, jewelry, prints, and more. Saturday is $10; Sunday is free! Celebrate Asheville’s vibrant creative spirit here. 12- 6 pm at Harrah’s Cherokee Center, Downtown Asheville.
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Shindig on the Green
Musicians and dancers from across Western North Carolina gather on these Saturday nights to share the region's stirring Southern Appalachian mountain culture and traditions—with each other and…
July - Downtown After Five
Enjoy great music, food, and beer in downtown Asheville at this free, popular outdoor concert. Held every third Friday of the month from April-September from 5-9 PM. Free admission. Purchase an…
Love Shine Play Yoga Festival
Formally the Yoga Festival, this event is in its eighth year and features 40 presenters and 90+ offerings downtown, including yoga, music, outdoor activities, and health & wellness experts.… More Information
Summer Art in the Park, Blowing Rock
Art in the Park in Blowing Rock, NC, hosts dozens of fine art and handcraft vendors at each show. Some of the best local and regional artists and craftspeople showcase their handcrafted jewelry,…
Mountain Dance & Folk Festival
A favorite showcase since 1928, mountain fiddlers, banjo pickers, dulcimer sweepers, dancers, balladeers, and others come together for a showcase of authentic bluegrass music and dancing in…
Mountain Dance and Folk Festival
Celebrating its 99th Annual Festival! Watch and listen to some of the finest Appalachian ballad singers, string bands, and square dance teams at the nation’s longest-running folk festival. Three…
Grandfather by Night: Twilight Hike, July 31
After sunset at the Mile High Swinging Bridge, this small-group hike searches Grandfather Mountain's forest for salamanders, owls, flying squirrels, and fireflies. Limited to 24 participants, ages… More Information
Art on the Greene, August 2026
Buy art and support the restoration of the historic school in Banner Elk. Find a big variety of artists working with metal, glass, pottery, wood, jewelry, and more. Many other things to do nearby… More Information
August - Emerging Artist Exhibit at the Folk Art Center
Haywood Community College Professional Crafts Program and the Southern Highland Guild present the Graduating Class of 2026 Exhibit. Emerging artists display work in fiber, wood, clay, and metals… More Information
AVL Sounds Fest
Experience regional talent across multiple genres at AVL Sounds Fest, the evolution of the successful AVLfest. This new festival spreads music across local stages throughout Asheville over four… More Information
Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair
Two hundred juried crafters transform the streets around Burnsville's historic town square into a showcase of handmade work spanning nearly every craft imaginable. There's also music, dancing, and…
The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel, Montford Park Players - Asheville
Swashbuckling adventure and daring rescues headline this production of Shakespeare's The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel at the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre. Bring a lawn chair, picnic basket, and…
Sourwood Festival, Black Mountain
There's plenty to see and do at this free street festival in Black Mountain to celebrate sourwood honey, Appalachian craft, and community! 150 vendors, live music, a kids zone, food, and beverages. 10 am- 5 pm both Saturday and Sunday. New for 2026: BBQ Competition and fireworks, both in Swannanoa.
NC State Bluegrass Festival
This concert weekend is hosted in Cherokee and features live stage shows, bites from food trucks, unique craft vendors, and the magic of campfire jamming. Single-day and weekend tickets available… More Information
Lake Lure Olympiad
The Hickory Nut Gorge Olympiad is offers unfogettable race experiences and brings the community and visiting spectators together to celebrate. The theme for 2026 is Run for Recovery. The races are… More Information
Brews & Bears Fest in Asheville
Only in Asheville will you find this kind of fun summer event. Bears and Brews is an after-hours mini-festival series with craft beer, food trucks, live music, and animal programs. Meet resident…
Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands
Top art show! See and buy traditional and contemporary fine art and craft directly from Southern Highland Craft Guild members, with 100+ juried artists from mountain regions of nine states. Held…
August - Downtown After Five
Enjoy great music, food, and beer in downtown Asheville at this free, popular outdoor concert. Held every third Friday of the month from April-September from 5-9 PM. Free admission. Purchase an…
Nature and Forest Therapy at Grandfather Mountain
This is your chance to join certified forest therapy guide Mattie Decker for a 2- to 2.5-hour walk forest at Grandfather Mountain. Decker offers a series of invitation to help you slow down and… More Information
WNC Bigfoot Festival
The annual WNC Bigfoot Festival is held over several blocks of Main Street in downtown Marion, located about 36 miles east of Asheville. In addition to Sasquatch-themed items, discover a… More Information
Past Events
Toe River Summer Studio Tour
Drive scenic mountain roads to find 100 fine artists and crafts people in every medium at their studios for a free, self-guided cultural adventure in the Penland, Spruce Pine, and…
18th Annual Mermaid Parade & Festival
Mermaids, pirates, and aquatic revelers return to the French Broad River for Marshall's beloved summer celebration. Festival begins at noon Saturday. Parade at 5 pm Saturday, plus a mermaid market… More Information
Asheville VeganFest
This festival in Pack Square Park is for anyone interested in a plant-based diet as well as people who are already vegan. Vendors offer food, drink, fitness and lifestyle products, and more.… More Information
Great Smoky Mountains Music Train
Enjoy a variety of live music aboard a historic steam-powered train traveling through the Smokies. This new experience from Great Smoky Mountains Railroad combines mountain scenery with musical… More Information
Livermush Festival
Enjoy livermush sandwiches from food trucks and local restaurants while enjoying live music, hog calling, an eating contest, and more in downtown Marion. Make sure to cast your vote on…
Folk Art Center Pop-up Mini Craft Fair
Twenty-five Guild member artists offer juried handmade work in ceramics, wood, fiber, glass, metal, and more at the Folk Art Center. Each mini pop up fair features a rotating lineup for a… More Information
Robert RunningWolfe Plays Dancing on the Square, Robbinsville
An impressive lineup of muscians, a sprinkling of cornmeal, and a caller all await you in Robbinsville's Courthouse Square for a community dance! Held each Friday night from late Spring through…
FAB Fest, Spring Dates
FAB Fridays run from April-October, featuring the best in local Food, Arts, and Brews (FAB) on Central Street in Downtown Rutherfordton. Come out for live music, a variety of food trucks, beer,… More Information
Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures at Biltmore
This captivating exhibition invites you to delve into one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries in history—the unearthing of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922.
Explore the rich… More Information
Labor Day Weekend Events & Things to Do
See our special list of top events, festivals and things to do during Labor Day Weekend in Asheville and the surrounding towns and mountains.
For events throughout the year, see our list of seasonal calendars.
