Asheville Vcation Rental Offers early Booking FREE NIGHT

Mountain view vacation rental - 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, sleeps 6. Wonderful mountain views, deck with dining and gas grill, covered porch with hammock, fireplace, pillowtop beds, WIFI. Pet Friendly with 1 acre fenced yard. $200 - $215 night, $1295 week. 

Get local information on the Asheville Visitor Guide

Backyard Habitats Workshop Today at Chimney Rock

March 31  Backyard Habitats Workshop: Attracting Butterflies, Birds & Bees Why are butterflies, birds and bees attracted to some plants more than others? Can you believe that native plants are up to four times more attractive to bees than non-natives? These pollinators and feathered friends have co-evolved with specific native plants in the region and depend on them for food.

Join expert Ron Hoover to learn how to identify the best host and support plants to get your backyard or butterfly garden darting and buzzing with activity! Appropriate for all ages (6+) and levels of experience. $27 for Adults, $15 for Annual Passholders; $20 for Youth (ages 6-15), $12 for Grady’s Kids Club Members (includes Park admission for the day)

Get more local information on the Chimney Rock Visitor Guide

Celebrate April Fools Day and the Appalachian Trail in Franklin

March 31  April Fool's Trail Days  - A celebration of the Appalachian Trail. Friday and Saturday Night at the Sapphire Inn from 5:00 to 9:00 PM the Waldroop Band, Talent Contest. Saturday enjoy Live Music, Food, Outdoor Exhibits in downtown Franklin from 10 AM - 3 PM.

Get more local information on the Franklin NC Visitor Guide

Marion Hosts the 8th Annual Tour De Lure Bike Ride

March  31  8th Annual Tour De Lure Bike Ride Two rides, one for the "hard core" cyclist and one just for fun. The Dewey Hughes Memorial Ride is a challenging one beginning at Marion's YMCA traveling through rolling farmlands, up Stone Mountain, around Lake Lure, through Chimney Rock and returning to Marion for a total of 67 miles.

The Fun Ride begins at the same time and place (same fees), but takes you on an exciting 25 mile course through rolling hillsides and farmlands. Applications available online or at the Corpening YMCA in Marion. Free Spaghetti meal after the ride.

Get more local information on the Marion NC Visitor Guide

Last Chance for Discount Cataloochee Ski Tickets

If you missed the BIG one day pass sale at Cataloochee Ski Area, you have a last chance to save on your seasonal pass.  Pass pricing for the upcoming season 2012-2013 is at its lowest rate now through March 31 2012.  Pricing will increase on April 1.

Cataloochee has averaged 119 days of skiing and riding per season over the last seven years.  This kind of statistic  would be more commonly  expected from areas further north or west, not from one of the Southernmost ski areas in the country.  During the 2011-12 season lasting 110 days,  Cataloochee  weekday/night passholders had the opportunity to ski or ride with for a total of 74 days and 83 nights.

You can purchase passes online or call in and order over the phone with a credit card.  It's that simple.  Don't miss out on your chance to save on enjoying all the mountain has to offer this winter. 

Seasonal ski and snowboard rentals are also  available for order at Cataloochee for the upcoming season.  Renting is simple and all equipment is ready to go when you pick up beginning November 1.  A refundable $250 deposit is required and all you have to do is return the equipment prior to April 1, 2013,  to get your deposit back.  It's a simple and convenient way to get new equipment each season or to outfit growing kids. 

Seasonal rental prices are:
Adult Ski Rental       $179 (Includes skis, boots and poles)
Junior Ski Rental      $139 (Includes skis, boots and poles)
Snowboard Rental    $189 (Includes boots and board)

Cherokee Opening Day Fishing Tournament

March 31  Opening Day Fishing Tournament   in Cherokee NC. 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. Redemption location and times to be announced. Open to all ages and for all legal fishing methods. $5 entry. Registration necessary to redeem cash prize. $5 entry fee - available everywhere Cherokee fishing permits are sold.

Get a link for the Cherokee Fishing Tournament and more information on the
Cherokee NC Visitor Guide

Mountain Spirits: Wine and Beer this week, 3-29-12

March 31, 3 PM - 7 PM at  Appalachian Vintner, 745 Biltmore Avenue Suite 121 • Asheville, NC.  Asheville Wine and Beer Report -  Chuck Landers and Wisdom Beverage will be pouring some serious values from the Central and Northern Pacific coast of the US: Waterbrook Winery Melange Blanc- 39% Riesling, 18% Pinot Gris, 14% Gewürztraminer, 10% Chardonnay, 10% Sauvignon Blanc, 9% Viognier from the Canyon Ranch, Bosma, Willow Crest, Den Hoed, Oasis, Carpenter vineyards in Washington State; Stone Cap Winery Chardonnay- 100% Columbia Valley Chardonnay. Stone Cap Wines are handcrafted entirely from estate grown grapes from the renowned Goose Ridge Estate Vineyard in Washington State's Columbia Valley; Tim Tonjum Different Drummer Cabernet Sauvignon Rietkerk Vineyard- 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the 15 acre Rietkerk Vineyard, deep with in the rich Bench lands of Paso Robles; Stone Cap Winery Syrah- 100% Goose Ridge Winery Syrah, Established under the direction of the late Dr. Walter Clore, Father of the Washington Wine Industry. Discounts for purchases during the tasting.

March 30, 5 - 7 PM Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC. FREE beer tasting:  Bell's Brewing -  This spring/summer beer is one of Bell's most popular and bestselling beers. There will be a keg on tap plus some of your regular favorites to taste. Come by this Friday for a taste of some of the top sellers at Hops and Vines.   March 31, 3-6 PM - FREE Wine Tasting: Springtime French Wine.  Domaine Antugnac Chardonnay: An unoaked Chardonnay redolent of fresh apple and honey with herbal notesl   Domaine Agugnac Pinot Noir: Expressive nose of black cherry and spices. Ample and fruity with a fresh finish; Guigal Cotes du Rhone Rose- Made by famed Rhone producer E. Guigal, this is one of the favorite dry Roses in the shop.

March 31 , starts at 6 PM,  Classic Wine Cellar, 20 Church Street, Waynesville NC - B.Y.O.B.B. PARTY. Bring your own birthday bottle to celebrate Richard's Birthday. Each person brings a bottle, puts it on the bar and then orders a taste  from what is available. A great way to sample many wines. Birthday cake by Mabel will be served. Full tapas, flatbreads and cheese menu will be available.  Live music by Possum Band.

March 30, 4-7 PM at Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, Asheville NC - 545 Friday Winedown - New Arrivals Sampling - 2010 Domaine du Pas St. Martin Saumur Blanc; 2010 Cooper Mountain Pinot Gris Reserve; 2010 Cooper Hill Pinot Noir; 2009 Leese Fitch Cabernet Sauvignon; 2009 Chateau Tour Saint Bonnet Medoc. $5/person.  Free for Grape Nuts     March 31, 2-5 PM - FREE Wine Tasting: Sample 4 artisan wines - the tasting typically features 4 affordable wines from small family wineries

March 30,  4 PM - 7 PM  LaBouteille, 10 N Trade St, Suite A Tyon NC - Complimentary Wine Tastings every Friday.  March 31 - The last Saturday of each month 3-5 pm is a 10 beers for $10 beer tasting. Bring a dish of food to share.

March 31,   2 PM - 5 PM  The Wine Guy, 555 Merimon Ave and 1200 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville NC. FREE Saturday tastings are a great way to sample new favorites in a casual setting. A local distributor will pour a few new wines from their portfolio. No reservations required and there will be special pricing on the wines sampled. 

March 31, 12 PM - 5 PM at Vino Vino Wine Market, 178 Weaverville Rd., Asheville NC. Every Saturday anytime between 12:00 and 5:00pm enjoy a sampling of wines from around the world. A 10% discount on each of the wines we are featuring.

Tasting Rooms:

Biltmore Winery, located on the Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC. Daily tasting and tours with Estate admission. Special events and tastings throughout the year.

Old North State Winery, 308 North Main Street, Mount Airy NC. Hours of operation are: Monday-Wednesday 11am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 12pm-6pm. Sample wines and browse the gift shop featuring wine related and gourmet gift items.

RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC Tours are "on demand" noon to six PM daily. Tastings are available noon to six PM daily and include up to 11 varieties of wine.

Calaboose Cellars, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews NC. Closed for the winter - re-open March 22, 2012Tasting room summer hours: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Noon to 5:00. This week check out the "Warden's White".

South Creek Vineyard and Winery, 2240 South Creek Road, Nebo, NC

Daily Tastings at Wedge Brewing Company, 125 B Roberts St. Asheville NC. Micro-brewery regular Tasting room hours: Monday - Thursday 4 PM - 10+ PM; Friday 3 PM - 10+ PM; Saturday and Sunday 2 PM - 10+ PM.

Daily Tastings at Greenman Brewery, 23 Buxton Ave., Asheville NC. The tasting room is open seven days a week at 4 o'clock, or maybe earlier

EasterEvents: PEANUTS™ Easter Beagle Express on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

April 6-7  PEANUTS™ Easter Beagle Express! on The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is an annual favorite for kids of all ages. Trains will depart the historic Bryson City depot at 10:30 AM. The train will travel along the Tuckasegee River into the quaint town of Dillsboro North Carolina for the 1 ½ hour layover. Passengers will join Snoopy, Lucy, Charlie Brown and our Easter Bunnies for old fashioned Easter fun.

Festivities during the layover include crafts, coloring sheets, temporary tattoos, live music and snacks with Snoopy and more. Join in the on-going Easter egg hunt for special prizes and of course lots of candy. Advance tickets are required, as seating is limited. Adult tickets are $49 and children, ages 2-12, are $29. Hurry, tickets are going fast! Advanced reservations are suggested for this special event train. 

Get more information on the Bryson City Visitor Guide

Chimney Rock's 57th Annual Easter Sunrise Service

April   8   57th Annual Easter Sunrise Service at Chimney Rock   Celebrate Easter with song, scripture and spiritual music as a spectacular sunrise appears over Lake Lure. Chimney Rock's annual Easter Sunrise Service has become a legendary event in WNC, attracting more than 1,000 early risers from around the Southeast each year.

This free non-denominational Easter celebration features live instrumental music, spiritual songs, and breathtaking scenery. The event is now in its 57th year, and a number of locals have not missed any since the first event in 1955! This is one of the few times each year that residents and guests can see the sun rise over Lake Lure from high atop Chimney Rock Mountain. FREE and open to the public.

Easter Getaways in Chimney Rock

 Log home rental with great views - 2 bedrooms + loft, 2 baths, sleeps 6. Fireplace, wrap around deck, gas grill, hammock.  5 acres with waterfall trail bordered by pristine forest, 15 minutes to Chimney Rock.  $180 - $220 night, $1300 week.    See cabin photos and confirm availability

 Mountain view vacation rental -  3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, sleeps 7. Peaceful mountain view from the covered porches, fireplace, game room with pool table, piano, video library, WIFI, grill. $100 - $130 night, $550 - $700 week.  Get more photos and rental availability

 Long range views and hot tub- 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, sleeps 8. Rock your cares away on the porch surrounded by peace and quiet, yet only a short drive to area attractions. Fireplace, gas grill, WIFI, stone fire pit.   Get rental rates and photos

Take a Hike: Guided Hike at Chimney Rock Park

March 31  Spring for Free Guided Hikes: Hickory Nut Falls   Forget those winter blues and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine at Chimney Rock. Free guided hike to the tallest waterfall on the east coast, Hickory Nut Falls, at an incredible 404 feet.

Along the way, see how spring’s approach is changing the Park’s diverse scenery.  Meet the trail guide for the hike in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts at 1 PM. Get more information about Chimney Rock Park events on the Chimney Rock NC Visitor Guide.

Easter Vacation Rentals: Asheville Area Rentals

Great views only 7 miles to Asheville - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 8. Deck with wonderful Long range views, hot tub and gas grill.  2 stone fireplaces,  WIFI,  Pet Friendly.  $310 - $365 night, $1800 week.  Get photos and rental availability 


Walk to downtown restaurants and galleries- 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, sleeps 4. Restored and renovated for comfort 1920s home with deck and covered porch, HDTV, WIFI. Great Asheville getaway for a weekend or  extended stay. $225 - $395 night, $1195 - $1795 week.  See rental photos and check availability


Private mountain getaway - 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps up to 8. Wooded setting on 10 acres with 3 spring-fed  ponds. Deck with hot tub, dining and grill. Fireplace, HDTV, Internet. Pets considered. $275-$300 night, $1300 - $1600 week.    See photos and rental details

Lake Lure Inn Easter Sunday Brunch

April 8 - Easter Brunch at the Historic Lake Lure Inn and Spa. Sit outside on the Veranda Patio with spectacular views of the lake or relax after your meal with a cup of coffee on the front porch

complete with rocking chairs. The buffet offers an extensive assortment of breakfast items, appetizers, salads, main courses, sides, and desserts. Adults $29.95, ages 6-12 $14.95, 5 and under free.

1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa - 70+ rooms and suites some with kitchenettes and hot tubs. View of Lake Lure, walk to marina, beach, boardwalk. Full spa services, swimming pool, Pet Friendly. Highly rated on site restaurant. Historic 1927 Inn, recently renovated.    Book your getaway online for the best rates

Learn more about Lake Lure NC HERE

WNC Chefs Challenge for 3-27-12

March 27   WNC Chefs Challenge - Boca vs. Season’s Restaurant Food and sport combine for the ultimate food fight. The Challenge brings together 14 leading chefs from the region and one secret ingredient in weekly battles each Tuesday from March 20 - May 22.

Diners enjoy six plated culinary creations (three from each team) that incorporate the secret ingredient and score each dish. The votes from the audience and a panel of professional chefs, journalists, and culinary experts are tallied. A winner is announced at the end of the night and continues to the next round of competition.
The Century Room on the Park, located above Pack’s Tavern on 20 South Spruce Street in Asheville, will serve as host for the dinners each Tuesday, March 20 through May 22.  Reservations are $49 per individual, and can be made by calling (828) 225-6944. Beverages, sales tax, and gratuity are not included.

Easter Vacation near Boone NC: Vacation home rental with amazing views

The view from the top is GREAT - 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, sleeps up to 10. You'll love the clear views of Grandfather and Sugar Mountains. Hot tub, fireplace, deck, gas grill, Internet and guest computer. Located on 8+ peaceful acres in between Boone and Blowing Rock.  

See rental photos and get availability

Find more Easter Vacation rentals HERE

Take a Hike: Wildflower Walk in Franklin

March 24 F  Wildflower Walk at Rufus Morgan Falls Trail led by Jack Johnston-meet at the Ride-Share Commuter Lot off HWY 64 West at Sloan Road at 8:30 AM. This hike was rated one of North Carolina's Best Wildflower Hikes.   Franklin, NC

Asheville's 8th Annual Artisan Bread Festival This Weekend

March 24  8th Annual Asheville Artisan Bread Festival Local artisan bakers showcase their bread in an all-day event at A-B Tech. The event begins with a bread tasting and sale at the Magnolia Building from 10 AM to 2 PM. Hands-on workshops and lectures will take place from 9 AM to 6 PM at the same location.

Mountain Spirits: Wine and Beer this week, 3-22-12

March 23, 5 - 7 PM Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC. FREE beer tasting: Pisgah Brewing:  new seasonal beers from Pisgah Brewing, featuring Riverbend Brown Ale made with local Riverbend Malt, Mexican Lager and Pisgah Pale Ale . March 24, 3-6 PM - FREE Wine Tasting: Springtime French Wine. Domaine Antugnac Chardonnay: An unoaked Chardonnay redolent of fresh apple and honey with herbal notes; Domaine Agugnac Pinot Noir: Expressive nose of black cherry and spices. Ample and fruity with a fresh finish.; Guigal Cotes du Rhone Rose- Made by famed Rhone producer E. Guigal, this is one of our favorite dry Roses in the shop.  Recieve 10% off these wines from 3-6 this Saturday

March 23 , 7-10 PM,  Classic Wine Cellar, 20 Church Street, Waynesville NC -  Eve Haslam and Satin Steele Jazz perform. Enjoy a special Spanish Tappas menu and Mable Alice Rum Cake. 

March 23, 4-7 PM at Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, Asheville NC - Friday Winedown - Dionysus Lives -  Derek Boles from Dionysus Distributors will join us to pour a California heavy lineup of really good stuff.   Montinore Pinot Gris; Stuhlmuller Chardonnay; Montinore Borealis; Don Pascual Tannat "Pueblo del Sol"; Wellington Zinfandel;  Textbook Cabernet Sauvignon; Rock Wall Petite Sirah . $5/person..........Free for Grape Nuts     March 24, 2-5 PM - FREE Wine Tasting: Sample 4 artisan wines - the tasting typically features 4 affordable wines from small family wineries

March 23,  4 PM - 7 PM  LaBouteille, 10 N Trade St, Suite A Tyon NC - Complimentary Wine Tastings every Friday.  The last Saturday of each month 3-5 pm is a 10 beers for $10 beer tasting. Bring a dish of food to share.

March 24,   2 PM - 5 PM  The Wine Guy, 555 Merimon Ave and 1200 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville NC. FREE Saturday tastings are a great way to sample new favorites in a casual setting. A local distributor will pour a few new wines from their portfolio. No reservations required and there will be special pricing on the wines sampled. 

March 24, 12 PM - 5 PM at Vino Vino Wine Market, 178 Weaverville Rd., Asheville NC. Every Saturday anytime between 12:00 and 5:00pm enjoy a sampling of wines from around the world. A 10% discount on each of the wines we are featuring.
March 24, 1-4 PM at Vinsite WIne Shop, 64 Broad Street, Asheville NC -   Free wine tasting every Saturday

Tasting Rooms:

Biltmore Winery, located on the Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC. Daily tasting and tours with Estate admission. Special events and tastings throughout the year.

Old North State Winery, 308 North Main Street, Mount Airy NC. Hours of operation are: Monday-Wednesday 11am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 12pm-6pm. Sample wines and browse the gift shop featuring wine related and gourmet gift items.

RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC Tours are "on demand" noon to six PM daily. Tastings are available noon to six PM daily and include up to 11 varieties of wine.

Calaboose Cellars, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews NC. Closed for the winter - re-open March 22, 2012Tasting room summer hours: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Noon to 5:00. This week check out the "Warden's White".

South Creek Vineyard and Winery, 2240 South Creek Road, Nebo, NC

Daily Tastings at Wedge Brewing Company, 125 B Roberts St. Asheville NC. Micro-brewery regular Tasting room hours: Monday - Thursday 4 PM - 10+ PM; Friday 3 PM - 10+ PM; Saturday and Sunday 2 PM - 10+ PM.

Daily Tastings at Greenman Brewery, 23 Buxton Ave., Asheville NC. The tasting room is open seven days a week at 4 o'clock, or maybe earlier

Flat Rock Playhouse Music on the Rock Series

March 22-24    Music on the Rock Series: Sweet Dreams, The Music of Patsy Cline The 10 concert 2012 series produced by The Flat Rock Theatre offers a celebration of music from country to pop to Sinatra. Held in the Flat Rock Playhouse Downtown Theatre, 125 South Main Street, Hendersonville NC.

Get a link  and more information for the Music on the Rock series on the
Hendersonville Visitor Guide

Lúnasa Performs this week at Diana Wortham Theatre

March 24, 8 PM at Daian Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square in Asheville NC - Lúnasa, the Irish Music Dream Team.  "The hottest Irish acoustic group on the planet" is back for the Theatre's Mainstage Series.  Recognized as Performers of the Decade by liveireland.com  Lúnasa has sold out shows across North America, the UK, Europe, and Japan. Get details and tickets HERE.

 

Easter Getaways: Waynesville Vacation Home with a view

Enjoy the panoramic views -  Celebrate the Easter Holiday or Spring Break in the Smoky Mountains near Waynesville NC.

3 bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps 6.Wrap-around deck to enjoy the incredible views, gas grill, stone fireplace, gourmet kitchen, 46"flat screen TV. Close to the golf course and smoky Mountain attractions. $189 night, $1099 week.  See rental photos and availability calendar

Get more information on the Waynesville NC Visitor Guide

Fire on the Rock Semi-finals this week in Blowing Rock

March  20    Fire on the Rock    Semi-final -   Glidewell's   VS   Green Park Inn.  Chefs from local restaurants will battle head-to-head in exciting single elimination battles every Tuesday and Wednesday at Crippen's Restaurant. You, the diner, judge a six course "blind" menu created around a secret ingredient. Prepaid reservations are required.  March 21 -  Vidalia  VS  Bistro Roca

Get a link and more events on the Blowing Rock Visitor Guide

Have a North Carolina Elk Experience

March  20  North Carolina Elk Experience  in Cataloochee Valley, sponsored by the Friends of the WNC Nature Center. Take part in an exploration of  native elk species that has returned to the mountains of  North Carolina.

The program includes a presentation given by a naturalist a the Nature Center and a trip to Cataloochee Valley. Fee $20.00/person non-Asheville resident, Friends members and Asheville city residents $18.00. Reservations/tickets required. Call 828-298-5600 ex. 5 to reserve a spot.

Easter Events: Easter Egg Hunt Today on Sugar Mountain

March 18  Easter Egg Hunt  Dress up in your Easter costume and join Sugar Bear and Sweetie Bear on the slopes in search of prize-filled eggs. You may be the lucky winner of a season pass! Valid lift/slope tickets or passes are required for participation. Event is for children 12 and under ONLY and begins at 9 AM at the bottom of the Summit #1 lift.   

Find a link for the Easter Egg Hunt and other events on the
Sugar Mountain NC Visitor Guide.

Classic Car Cruise-inToday in Old Fort

March 17  Classic Car Cruise-In  -  Held the 3rd Saturday of every month. Bring your car, truck or motorcycle. Downtown Old Fort, 3-5 p.m.; free Sponsored by Route 70 Cruisers. For more information, call 828-442-5135

St Patrick's Day Events: 2nd Annual St. Patrick's Day Block Party

March 17, 6 PM - 9 PM -  2nd Annual St. Patrick's Day Block Party    Join  the fun in downtown Brevard NC for: a pot of gold treasure hunt, Irish dancers, music, face painting and you-be-the-judge downtown window decorating contest. Downtown restaurants will be offering a variety of Irish taste treats and beverages.

The treasure hunt will include some  surprises -  a green jello-y substance, a blarney stone and tons of fun. Be sure to wear your  Green. A few of the participating merchants include:  The Eclectic Cottage  with raffles and door prizes, plus complimentary Irish refreshments;  The Square Root Restaurant  with Sierra Nevada samples, goodies and other fun surprises;   at Local Color  you can  Enter to Win a $50 gift certificate in their new and improved shop -  Claddagh rings are 25% off, plus other "magical" specials;  Lil Bo-tique ~ St. Paddy's Day themed games and fun for kids!

Get a link for St Patrick's Day Block Party and other events
on the Brevard NC Visitor Guide

Mountain Spirits: Wine and Beer this week, 3-15-12

March 15-17   , 3 - 6 PM   at Falderal Winery, 131 3rd Ave, Hendersonville NC.  March of the Leprechauns. Celebrate St.Patty’s Day and help support Mainstay, a Hendersonville non-profit committed to helping fight domestic violence. This year, Falderal Winery is one of the stops on the pub crawl. Come in, grab a glass of wine and get your card punched for a chance at some great prizes.

March 16 - 17   Heinzelmannchen Brewery   545 Mill Street, Sylva NC.    St Paddy's Day Celebration -  The Leprechauns and Heinzelmannchen will come together Friday March 16 & 17 to offer you Mini Stout Floats - a combination of vanilla ice cream and Black Forest Stout.  We'll also have Chocolate Covered Gnome on tap ($2) and for the wee little ones, root beer and birch beer floats are available - $1.  Wear your green on March 16th & 17th and we'll give you 10% off your purchase (excluding alcohol).

March 16, 5 - 7 PM Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC. FREE beer tasting: Dark Horse Brewing Company, the latest brewing company to hit WNC. Taste three beers from their year round line up - Crooked Tree IPA, Boffo Brown Ale and Raspberry Ale. March 17, 3-6 PM - FREE Wine Tasting: Varietal Wines with Fine Wine. Le Paradou Viognier 2008: This small production French white wine is a wonderful example of the incredibly aromatic grape, Viognier.; Vina Corejo Costas Don Rodolfo Cabernet Sauvignon 2010- At 6,000 feet Cafayate Valley is among the worlds highest-altitude viticultural regions;  Belasco de Baquedano "Llama" Malbec 2009- Cultivated from Malbec vines nearly 100 years old, this wine embodies the distinctive spirit of the Andes.  Recieve 10% off these wines from 3-6 this Saturday.

March 17, noon - 6 PM, Brushy Mountain Winery, 125 West Main Street, Elkin, NC - St Patrick's Day Celebration with a few tasty Irish treats - pick up food and drink inspired by the wearing of the green. The usual tasting fee applies

March 17, 1-5 PM at McRitchie Winery, 315 Thurmond P.O.Road  in Thurmond NC - St Patrick's Day House Party .  An afternoon of great music, wine, hard cider and fun .  Celtic Elk will be playing traditional and contemporary Celtic tunes from 1 to 4 pm and Joey Marion will entertain and dazzle with his fancy Irish footwork. No admission charge - a $7 tasting fee applies and includes wine tasting, light Irish fare and a logo glass. 

March 17, 11 AM - 5 PM at  South Creek Winery,  2240 South Creek Road in Nebo NC. - Blarney Fest.  11  Come out to the end of the rainbow at South Creek for a bit o' the Irish.  A Leprechaun is expected to deliver some treats to pair with the wines.  Make sure to wear green or you might get pinched! 

March 17, 204 PM   at Raffaldini 350 Groce Road  in Rhonda NC.  Barrel Tasting with the Winemaker  Enjoy a rare opportunity to sample wines from out cellar straight out of the barrel with winemaker Kiley Evans. This intimate, wine-focused event is limited to the first 35 Wine Club Members to RSVP - may sell out.

March 16 , 7-10 PM,  Classic Wine Cellar, 20 Church Street, Waynesville NC -  The Jay Brown One-man Band.  Jay Brown on vocals, guitar, harmonica, percussion and piano.  Enjoy a special Spanish Tappas menu and Mable Alice Rum Cake. 

March 16, 4-7 PM at Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, Asheville NC - 545 wine tasting - New Arrivals Tasting. Derek Boles from Dionysus Distributors will pour a California heavy lineup of really good stuff: Chateau de Manissy Tavel ; Domaine Zumbaum Tomasi Pic St. Loup; Der Pollerhof Gruner Veltliner; Lagar de Cervera Albarino; Couvillon Cabernet Sauvignon "Sagemoor Vineyard".   March 17, 2-5 PM - FREE Wine Tasting: Sample 4 artisan wines - the tasting typically features 4 affordable wines from small family wineries

March 16,  4 PM - 7 PM  LaBouteille, 10 N Trade St, Suite A Tyon NC - Complimentary Wine Tastings every Friday.  Feb 25 - The last Saturday of each month 3-5 pm is a 10 beers for $10 beer tasting. Bring a dish of food to share.

March 17,   2 PM - 5 PM  The Wine Guy, 555 Merimon Ave and 1200 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville NC. FREE Saturday tastings are a great way to sample new favorites in a casual setting. Sample 4 to 6 new wines. Light hors d’ oeuvres will be served and all wines poured will be specially priced.

March 17, 12 PM - 5 PM at Vino Vino Wine Market, 178 Weaverville Rd., Asheville NC. Every Saturday anytime between 12:00 and 5:00pm enjoy a sampling of wines from around the world. A 10% discount on each of the wines we are featuring.

March 17, 1-4 PM at Vinsite WIne Shop, 64 Broad Street, Asheville NC -   Free wine tasting every Saturday

Tasting Rooms:

Biltmore Winery, located on the Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC. Daily tasting and tours with Estate admission. Special events and tastings throughout the year.

Old North State Winery, 308 North Main Street, Mount Airy NC. Hours of operation are: Monday-Wednesday 11am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 12pm-6pm. Sample wines and browse the gift shop featuring wine related and gourmet gift items.

RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC Tours are "on demand" noon to six PM daily. Tastings are available noon to six PM daily and include up to 11 varieties of wine.

Calaboose Cellars, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews NC. Closed for the winter - re-open March 22, 2012Tasting room summer hours: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Noon to 5:00. This week check out the "Warden's White".

South Creek Vineyard and Winery, 2240 South Creek Road, Nebo, NC

Daily Tastings at Wedge Brewing Company, 125 B Roberts St. Asheville NC. Micro-brewery regular Tasting room hours: Monday - Thursday 4 PM - 10+ PM; Friday 3 PM - 10+ PM; Saturday and Sunday 2 PM - 10+ PM.

Daily Tastings at Greenman Brewery, 23 Buxton Ave., Asheville NC. The tasting room is open seven days a week at 4 o'clock, or maybe earlier

Heinzelmannchen Brewery Celebrates St Patrick's Day

March 16 - 17   St Paddy's Day Celebration at  Heinzelmannchen Brewery   The Leprechauns and Heinzelmannchen will come together Friday March 16 & 17 to offer you Mini Stout Floats - a combination of vanilla ice cream and Black Forest Stout.  We'll also have Chocolate Covered Gnome on tap ($2) and for the wee little ones, root beer and birch beer floats are available - $1 Wear your green on March 16th & 17th and we'll give you 10% off your purchase (excluding alcohol).

Heinzelmannchen Brewery is located at 545 Mill Street in
historic downtown Sylva NC

Go Fish: Panthertown Valley a Favorite Spot

The headwaters of the East Fork of the Tuckaseigee River and twenty miles of native brook trout streams, including Panthertown, Greenland, and Flat Creeks, wind through Panthertown Valley, making it ideal for catch-and-release fishing. The streams are stained brown with tannic acid from leaves that fall into the water. Primitive overnight camping is permitted and anglers come from around the world to visit these prized waters.

All waters in Panthertown are designated as Catch and Release, Artificial Flies Only Waters by the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission.. A fishing license from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is required to fish in Panthertown Valley.


These Regulations include:

• Season is open year-round
• No fish may be harvested or possessed
• Only artificial flies having one single hook may be used
• It is unlawful to possess natural bait on your person while fishing
• It is unlawful to use more than one line per person
• It is unlawful to fish from one-half hour after sunset, to one-half hour before sunrise on any Catch and Release stream located on Game Lands
• It is unlawful to take fish bait or bait fish from "Catch and Release Waters"
• It is unlawful to move wild fish from one stream to another on game lands without prior written authorization from the NCWRC
  

Panthertown Creek is on the Western North Carolina Fly-Fishing Trail, the first and only fly fishing trail in the United States, featuring some of the best trout waters in the Great Smoky Mountains. Get more information about the WNC Fly Fishing Trail and NC Fishing HERE.

March Madness at Old Edwards Inn in Highlands

Check out the March Madness Discounts on Spa services including 50% of Women's products - Phyt's Skin Care, Phyto Hair Care and Franche' Mineral Make-up.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa - accommodations include champagne arrival, evening turndown, 24-hour business center, 24-hour Butler’s pantry with Dove Bars, fresh fruit and non-alcoholic beverages. Room service, concierge, WIFI. Full onsite Spa services, onsite restaurant, planned events. Located in downtown Highlands.  Learn more about Old Edwards Inn HERE

St Patrick's Day Events: House Party at McRitchie Winery and Ciderworks

March 17, 1 PM - 5 PM at McRitchie Winery and Ciderworks, 315 Thurmond P.O. Road, Thurmond NC. St. Patrick's Day House Party - afternoon of great music, wine, hard cider and fun .  Celtic Elk will be playing traditional and contemporary Celtic tunes from 1 to 4 pm and Joey Marion will entertain and dazzle with his fancy Irish footwork. No admission charge - a $7 tasting fee applies and includes wine tasting, light Irish fare and a logo glass.

The tasting room at McRitchie Winery & Ciderworks is open Thursday through Sunday from 12 to 5 pm. The final tasting of the day is at 4:45.  Winter hours may vary and will be posted on the website. Call ahead for groups larger than six so we can provide the best visitor experience for you and all our guests.

McRitchie Winery and Ciderworks is located north of Wilkesboro and 15 minutes from  Elkin off Highway 21.

Get a link for McRitchie Winery and other Wilkesboro area attractions HERE.

Tweetsie Railroad ticket Discount

Biltmore Village hosts Dining Extravaganza for Restaurant Week

March 9 - 18 - Satisfy your appetite with a dining extravaganza in Asheville's beautiful Biltmore Village district. Through March 18 you can enjoy 3 courses for $30 at participating restaurants. Reservations are recommended and be sure to tell your server that you're there for Biltmore Village Restaurant Week.
Historic Biltmore Village is known for it's tree-lined streets, brick sidewalks, eclectic shops and excellent restaurants, Its istory dates back to the 1890's when it was originally a planned community at the entrance to George Vanderbilt's Biltmore Estate. Today, Biltmore Village is truly one of Asheville's most unique neighborhoods and a favorite with both visitors and locals.

Participating restaurants for this week's Dining Extravaganza include:
Corner Kitchen -   3 Boston Way, Asheville NC
Ruth's Chris Steak House -   26 All Souls Crescent, Asheville NC
Rezaz Restaurant & Wine Bar  - 28 Hendersonville Road, Asheville NC
Neo Cantina - 10 Biltmore Plaza, Asheville NC
Red Stag Grill - (Grand Bohemian) 11 Boston Way, Asheville NC
Fig Bistro - 18 Brook Street, Asheville NC

Get a link for Biltmore Village Restaurant Week and participating restaurants HERE

Chimney Rock Park Getting Ready for Spring

Chimney Rock Park is getting closer to reopening the elevator and Sky Lounge. With this year's capital improvements nearing completion there are  many exciting happenings at Chimney Rock in 2012. The Survival Skills Workshop Series kicks off Saturday, March 10 with Basic Wilderness First Aid.
There will be a series called "Spring into action" every Saturday in March from 1-2 PM. The series is  a fun, low-cost activity to get you and your family outdoors this spring.  You;ll enjoy the  fresh air, sunshine and beautiful scenery on a guided hike to one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, Hickory Nut Falls,  an incredible 404 feet. The  Spring for Free guided hikes are included in the cost of admission.  Along the trail to the Falls, you'll see how spring's approach is changing the Park's diverse landscape. No registration required. Meet a Park naturalist for the hike in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts by 1 PM.

The Park is  looking forward to celebrating the reopening of the new Outcroppings trail to the Chimney in April, restoring access by foot only to the upper mountain. For a link to Chimney Rock Park and more information click HERE.

Tribute to Madison County NC Fiddlers

March 10  Tribute to Madison County NC Fiddlers Madison County's premiere event featuring Bobby Hicks, Arvil Freeman, Roger Howell, Vipers' Dream featuring Adam Masters, Susi Gott, Jake & Sarah Owen and The Sons of Ralph. Two shows offered at 4 PM and 8 PM

Performers include Bobby Hicks, Arvil Freeman, Roger Howell,The Sons of Ralph, Susi Gott, Jake & Sarah Owen,and Vipers Dream (featuring Adam Masters).

Hawksnest Snow Tubing OpenTthis Weekend

Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline tours will be open daily, weather permitting, March 9 - 11 for snow tubing and zipline tours. Friday's and Saturday's snow tubing times are 10 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM and 6 PM. Sunday's times are 10 AM, 12 PM, & 2 PM.  March Madness snow tubing rates are $22 for Friday and $27 for Saturday and Sunday.

With Spring around the corner now's the time to enjoy the last days of snow in the mountains.

Second Saturday Tomorrow in Asheville's River Arts District

March 10    Second Saturday in the River Arts District   Artists open their doors and host openings, events classes and workshops on the second weekend of each month. Spend an entire day visiting dozens of working studios in a variety of media.


The River Arts District  is open year around  with the opportunity to meet artists in their studios. Schedules are available online. This unique area along the French Broad River is home to more than 165 artists with working studios located in 18 turn-of-the-century industrial buildings.The  artists of the River Arts District welcome you into their studios to talk with them, see their latest artwork, watch demonstrations, and experience for yourself the magic hidden inside the time-worn factories and warehouses along the French Broad River.

The District includes restaurants and cafes, a brewery, performing arts venue and free parking. Get a link for the River Arts District and other Asheville NC Attractions HERE.

Highlands hosts Annual Chili Cook-off this weekend

March 10,  6:30-9:30 PM   Highlands Annual Chili Cook-off:  Held at the Highlands Community Building. If you would like to enter as a competitor and fire up your best chili recipe, bake your best batch of cornbread, or or your family's secret salsa recipe, call 828-526-5841 - space is limitedt. Prizes will be awarded for The Hottest, Most Traditional, Most Unique, and Best Table Presentation, plus for Best Cornbread and Best Salsa.

Get a link for the Chili Cook-off and other Highlands NC information HERE

Survival Skills Workshop offered by Chimney Rock Park

March 10    Survival Skills Workshop: Basic Wilderness First Aid (1 of 3 in series) at Chimney Rock Park.   Don’t get caught in the wild without knowing basic first aid skills. In part 1 of the Survival Skills Workshop series, learn how to avoid and treat exposure to hypothermia, heat exhaustion, poison ivy, burns, blisters and more.

Understand the basics of splinting a sprained ankle and treating snake bites, bee stings and chiggers. Don’t let minor incidents stop you in your tracks – keep moving in the great outdoors with these essential first aid skills taught by local naturalist Clint Calhoun.  $27 for Adults, $15 for Annual Passholders for single workshop; $65 for Adults, $35 for Annual Passholders for all three workshops (includes Park admission for the day) 

Get a link for this and other Chimney Rock Park Events HERE

Take a Hike: Riverlink's free guided nature walks

Riverlink's March guided nature walks theme is "On the Lookout for Amphibians". The Walks series is a program designed to share the beauty and splendor of the region along the Wilma Dykeman RiverWay.

Groups will meet at the RiverLink office, located at 170 Lyman Street in the River Arts District, at 3:00 PM on March 17. Part 1 of each day will consist of a presentation outlining common species of amphibians found in the area, and defining characteristics of each. There will also be an audio presentation on frog and toad calls.

Part 2 of the day will consist of a drive over to Bent Creek Experimental Forest to go on the hunt for these beautiful creatures. Be prepared to get dirty while searching through the leaf litter on the hill sides and in the streams. Care will be given to leave the forest floor unaltered, and to safely release each salamander where it was found.

 

These outings are free and open to the public. They are designed to be beneficial and of great interest to beginners and experts alike. The nature walks will extend through August, with a new theme each month.