56th Annual Mount Mitchell Craft Fair this weekend in Burnsville

August 3- 4    Mount Mitchell Craft Fair  Hundreds of art and craft exhibitors and thousands of visitors will participate in the 56th Annual Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair. The event takes place on the Town Square and surrounding streets. Handcrafters from all over the United States come to sell their wares including baskets, candles, kettle corn, pottery, stained glass, and so much more. 

In addition to the variety of exhibitors, the Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair includes live entertainment and a food court showcasing such Southern staples as barbecue and homemade ice cream.

The event is free to the public with entertainment throughout the day. Get a link for the Mount Mitchell Craft Fair, Burnsville cabins and other local information on the Burnsville NC Visitor Guide

Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show

July 31 - August 5     Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show    Hunter Jumper II. The Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show is one of the oldest horse show events in the country and has been a Blowing Rock tradition since 1923. The events is open to spectators.

James King Homecoming at the Blue Ridge Music Center

August 5 - Bluegrass fans will be glad to hear of the James King Homecoming at the Blue Ridge Music Center, featuring the James King Band and the Cana Ramblers. This Sunday evening concert at the Music Center will kick off a great week of music at the Old Fiddler's Convention in Galax.

 Virginia native, James King, grew up in Carroll County -- one of the most fertile breeding grounds for bluegrass and old-time musicians. Known for singing such bluegrass and country classics as "30 Years of Farming," "Saginaw Michigan," and "Carroll County Accident," King has gained national recognition.

As a young man James began to take the music seriously, particularly the music of his fellow Virginians, the Stanley Brothers and banjoist, Ted Lundy, whose raw and heartfelt brand of bluegrass exerted a particularly strong influence on his music. King went on to perform and record with many bluegrass musicians of note including: T.J. & Bobby Lundy, Dudley Connell, Don Rigsby, Joe Mullins, Glen Duncan and others. King now resides in Danville, Virginia with his wife Julie but this special concert at the Blue Ridge Music Center on Sunday, August 5th, will bring him home to Carroll County.

Local, family-band favorite, the Cana Ramblers, will kick of the show. The Cana Ramblers include: flatpicking guitar phenom, Will Jones, talented sisters Laura Leigh and Ashley on vocals, mando and bass along with father/songwriter, Phillip on vocals and guitar. Rick Allred rounds out the group on mandolin and dobro.

Your whole family will enjoy this concert that will honor and celebrate the music from Cana, Virginia.

The James King Homecoming Concert starts at 7pm on Sunday, August 5th. Concert seating opens at 5:30pm. Admission $10/ $8 students & seniors. Children 12 and under are free.

Bring lawn chairs and the whole family. Picnics welcome. Smokehouse BBQ available. No pets or alcohol.

For info call (276) 236-5309 x112. Tickets are available at the Galax Visitor Center, Barr's Fiddle Shop, online,  and at the gate.

As always, there will also be free Mid Day Mountain Music in the BRMC breezeway from 12-4pm and the free Roots of American Music museum will be open 9am-8pm on this concert night.

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The summer-evening concert series occurs every weekend through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak.

Grandfather Mountain's Mile High Swinging Bridge Celebrates 60 years

September 2 marks 60 years of Grandfather Mountain's famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. The bridge, originally constructed with wooden planks in 1952 and rebuilt in 1999 using the original towers and galvanized steel, has seen its share of wild weather, celebrity guests, wedding proposals and family memories.

Grandfather Mountain will commemorate this landmark throughout the month of September with special programming and guest appearances. Events such as the 41st Annual Girl Scout Day and The Bridge-to-Bridge Incredible Challenge Bike Ride will offered.

Get a link and more details about Grandfather Mountain on the NC Parks Visitor Guide.

Gandfather's Attic Guided Hike

July 28-29   “Grandfather’s Attic” Hike    Beginning at 9 AM this challenging endeavor involves a hike to Attic Window Peak and Indian House Cave over the most rugged terrain on Grandfather Mountain. During this hike, interpretive rangers will share the story of Grandfather and past historic events that shaped the Mountain into what it is today.

This trek gains 600 feet in elevation during the 1.2-mile hike. It is a half-day trip and costs hikers $25 in addition to park admission.

Get a link for the Grandfather's Attic Hike and other NC park hikes and events on the NC Park Visitor Guide

Hunger Games Fan Tour this Weekend in Brevard

July 27-29   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.

Symphony by the Lake at Chetola in Blowing Rock

July 27. 7 PM   Symphony by the Lake at Chetola  Experience a moving performance by the Symphony of the Mountains, surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Take your seat on the grass by Chetola Lake, under the evening sky. Bring a picnic to enjoy with friends and family, or purchase meals from caterers at the event.

The performance ends with a spectacular fireworks show over the Lake. Admission is charged.

Blue Ridge Mountain Fair in Sparta

July 27-28  Blue Ridge Mountain Fair   Discover the handiwork of local artisans at this arts and crafts fair, held in the heart of Sparta NC at Crouse Park. The event features local artisans, entertainment and food vendors.

Fairgoers also have a chance to visit the Alleghany Quilter’s Guild Show at the Black Exhibition Building at the Alleghany County Fairgrounds on US 21, 1.5 miles north of Sparta.See the creativity of local quilters and vote on your favorite for the People’s Choice Award. There will bea variety of  demonstrations each day including hand appliqué, hand quilting, felting, hairpin lace, etc

A free shuttle bus will be available between the Quilt Show, the Blue Ridge Crafts Show, and the Vintage Car Show.

Get a link for the Blue Ridge Mountain Fair, vacation rentals and other Sparta events on the Sparta NC Visitor Guide

Bele Chere Festival - a Weekend of Arts, Music and Food in Asheville

July 27-29   Bele Chere Festival   This lively Asheville weekend event is the largest free outdoor street festival in the Southeast. The three-day festival on the streets of Downtown Asheville features live, original music all day and night for 200,000 festival-goers.

Bele Chere means "beautiful living" and comes from an ancient Scottish dialect. Bele Chere offers the unique opportunity to see, taste and hear some of the region's finest art, cuisine and music.

Visual arts at the festival are displayed at the Art Park as well as throughout the Festival grounds.  The Arts Park features some of the best artists of Bele Chere, exhibiting jewelry, photography, pottery, woodwork, paintings, and metalwork. All items sold in the Arts Park are handmade. Visit the selected artists in the Drhumor and Asheville Savings Bank lots on Patton Avenue between Church Street and Lexington Avenue.

This year's musical line-up includes Antique Firearms, an indie rock band;  ArtOfficial, eschewing the simple magic of beat machines and samples for the irreplaceable warmth of organic instrumentation, and a meticulous care for crafting music with soul;  Baby Rattlesnakes, equal parts soulful jazz, appalachian folk, and catchy pop;  Balsalm Range, a blend of jazz - bluegrass - country and gospel;  and dozens of other original and renowned musicians.

Food and Beverages at the Festival go WAY beyond the usual over-warmed wieners. Experience Foodtopia at the Taste of Asheville in Pack Square. The Taste of Asheville features local restaurants, showcasing a sampling of some of the best cuisine in Asheville, from The Corner Kitchen and the Lobster Trap to Ultimate Ice Cream and Glam Ham Pork Rinds. Pritchard Park Food Court Vendors offer both traditional festival fare along with taste treats from the Amish Baking Co., Party in a Pita, Sherri's Crab Cakes, Steak Boys Inc., Tropical Delights and dozens more.  Beverage booths are located throughout the festival for a pause to refresh with water, soft drinks, beer and wine as well as microbrews from most of Asheville's acclaimed craft brewers.

Additional Bele Chere Festival activities include: The Purina Air Dogs;  The Kids area with a a mix of crafts, rides, and performances;  Easel Rider - Asheville’s Mobile Art Lab;  Nonprofit Booths such as Hats for Humanity;  KISS Country Karaoke to sing your favorite country song; The 33rd Bele Chere 5K hosted by the Asheville Track Club;  Asheville's Urban Trail and Public Art.

K-9s in Flight Frisbee Dogs this week at Tweetsie Railroad

July 21 - 29   K-9s in Flight Frisbee Dogs at Tweetsie Railroad  Tweetsie Railroad hosts the high energy performances by a team of dynamic dogs in acrobatic freestyle routines. Seating is first come, first served and is included in the Park admission. 

Enjoy high flying fun as you watch the K-9s In Flight Frisbee® Dogs perform. The non-stop, action-packed performances from John Misita’s entourage of talented dogs include catching flying Frisbees during a back flip, dock dives and taking a running leap off of John’s back. The entourage of talented rescue dogs will delight visitors as they jump to new heights during daily shows at 11:00 AN., 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

Get a link for the K-9s in Flight and other local information on the Blowing Rock NC Visitor Guide.

A Musical Tribute to Patrick County at The Blue Ridge Music Center

July 28 at The Blue Ridge Music Center: Patrick County, Virginia, is famous for its deep-rooted musical traditions. You'll understand why when you hear these two outstanding bands: The Slate Mountain Ramblers and the Country Boys.

 

As always, there will also be free Mid Day Mountain Music in the BRMC breezeway from 12-4 PM and the free Roots of American Music museum will be open 9 AM-8 PM on this concert night.

  Decades of playing music together creates a special sound that is evident when you hear this Patrick County family band, The Slate Mountain Ramblers. The popular stringband, featuring fiddler, Richard Bowman, has long been a staple both at fiddlers' conventions and dances in the northwest North Carolina and southwest Virginia area.

Fueled by Richard's energetic, traditional fiddling, and backed up by daughter Marcia's rock-solid, clawhammer banjo and wife Barbara's driving bass, the Slate Mountain Ramblers provide the perfect elements for a square dance; good rhythm and great old-time tunes. They've won their share of blue ribbons too - as a group, on their instruments and for flatfoot dancing. They even call square dances while they perform! The Slate Mountain Ramblers formed 30 years ago.

Members have changed over time, but for the last 20 years the band formation has been primarily the Bowman family with additional musical support from guitarist, Ted Ashe. This stringband has performed in England, Austria, and across the US but they are best known as a mainstay of the dance and festival culture locally here within the region. Dance boards will be out for the dancers!
 
The Country Boys are one the best kept secrets from Patrick County. The group has been playing bluegrass and gospel for over 35 years at fiddlers' conventions, festivals, churches and porches along the Virginia/North Carolina line. Great vocal harmonies and fine musicianship are their trademark. The Country Boys consist of Johnny Joyce on guitar, Tim Bowman on banjo, J.A. Midkiff on fiddle, Kevin Easter on mandolin and Donald Clifton on bass. Come hear why local folks think this group is one of the best in the Blue Ridge.

The Patrick County Tribute concert starts at 7 PM. Concert seating opens at 5:30 PM. Admission $8/ $5 students and seniors. Children 12 and under are free. Bring lawn chairs and the whole family. Picnics welcome. Smokehouse BBQ available. No pets or alcohol.

For info call (276) 236-5309 x112. Tickets are available at the Galax Visitor Center, Barr's Fiddle Shop, online at www.BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org and at the gate. The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The summer-evening concert series occurs every weekend through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak.

PushRodz Car Show Today in Burnsville

July 21   6th Annual Carolina PushRodz Car Show   Run for the Hills for you "fill" of cars, fun and prizes. This is a free family events with no charge for parking or to enter a car. BBQ, funnel cakes and drinks will be available for purchase.

Get a link for details about the PushRodz Car Show and other local events on the Burnsville NC Visitor Guide

Canoe Club Challenge at Nantahala Outdoor Center

July 21     GalasportUSA Canoe Club Challenge at NOC   Come by yourself, with your club, or with a couple of friends. The Canoe Club Challenge is open to everyone, and you'll have so much fun, you won't even notice all the new skills you're learning. Enjoy a challenging course set on un-intimidating whitewater and a fun, social atmosphere.

Get a link for the Canoe Challenge and other Bryson City events on the Bryson City NC Visitor Guide

Franklin Folk Festival Brings NC Heritage to Life

July 21  9th Annual Franklin Folk Festival   More than 100 living exhibits and demonstrations allow visitors to experience what mountain life was like way back when. These folks learned at their parents’ knee woodcarving, moon shining, basket making, weaving and spinning, and all the many other things they’ll be demonstrating.

Exhibits include everything from quilting and moonshinin' to Civil War reenactors. Activities get underway at 9:00 AM and conclude with Pickin' on the Square in the evening.

This year a special event, the 100th Anniversary Celebration of the Franklin Fire Department, will held in collaboration with the festival and will feature booths, speakers, games, and vintage trucks, equipment and memorabilia. There will be antique Fire Engines on Display along the west end of Main Street plus an old fashioned bucket brigade challenge and other games & contests for all ages. The Fire Department Celebration area will kick off at 11:00 AM. in front of Macon Bank with greetings from the NC State Fire Marshal, Wayne Goodwin.

Get a link for more details about the Franklin Folk Festival and Franklin cabin rentals, restaurants and attractions on the
Franklin NC Visitor Guide.

 

Waynesville Street Dance includes Folkmoot USA

July 20   Mountain Street Dance  Put on your cloggin' and square dancin' shoes and enjoy an old-fashioned mountain hoedown in downtown Waynesville. Live mountain music, demonstrations and instruction by local clogging teams. Refreshments are available for purchase. Limited bleacher seating available so feel free to bring a chair or blanket for the Courthouse lawn.

This night includes the renowned Folkmoot performers at the Street Dance as a part of Folkmoot USA 2012.

Get a link for the Mountain Street Dance
and other Waynesville events and information on the
Waynesville NC visitor Guide.

Mountain Spirits: Wine and Beer Tastings for the week of 7-19-12

July 19, 5 - 7 PM, Brusin' Ales, 66 Broad Strteet, Asheville NC - Natty Greene's Brewing Co.  -  Wildflower Wit: Classic Belgian-style white beer spiced with coriander, chamomile and sweet orange peel;   Buckshot Amber Ale: Full-bodied with rich, smooth flavor and notes of caramel and toffee;   Southern Pale Ale: Medium-bodied, deep golden ale with distinct, bitter character and a hoppy, piney, citrus finish;   Freedom American IPA: Medium-bodied deep golden ale with moderate fruity-ester flavor balanced by quality American hop aroma and bitterness. Click the title for in depth beer information.


July 19, 6-8 PM until,  Classic Wine Cellar, 20 Church Street, Waynesville NC -  NEW - THIRSTY THURSDAY BEER TASTING Thursday Nights. Taste before you buy. Four beers for $4 and special discounts per case during the tasting. Small plate menu and cheese plates available.  July 20, 7 PM - Friday Night Live music with Maggie and the Romantics.  Enjoy music, wine, beer and food including Angelino's small plate menu and flatbreads. July 25 - WOW (Wine on Wednesday)  FIVE wines for $5. Enjoy a light meal or cheese plate and get $2 off all WOW wines.


July 20,  5 - 7 PM   Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC.  FREE beer tasting:   Caldera Brewing, Ashland OR .   Pale Ale - A west coast style pale ale dry hopped with two different local hop varieties;  Amber Ale - A crisp, refreshing amber. Simplicity is the key to this recipe;   IPA - An American-style India Pale Ale brewed with plenty of body and an assertive hop profile;  Grist: Premium Two Row, Munich, Crystal;  Hops: Amarillo, Centennial and Simcoe;  Hop Hash - This beer gets its name from the Hopunion Hop Hash nuggets - pure hop lupulin extracted and scraped from the Hopunion pelletizing line, then boiled for 90 minutes in the kettle. According to the brewer, this has never been done before.
July 21  , 3-6 PM - FREE Wine Tasting - Wines with Grapevine. Arca Nova Vinho Verde 2011: This wine delivers everything that we expect from a good Vinho Verde; Offerente Monastrell 2009:  Bodegas Santiago Apostol's 2009 offering is 100% Monastrell aged for 12 months in new and used French and American Oak; Senda 66 Tempranillo 2008: This Tempranillo is already a huge hit here at Hops and Vines.

 

July 20, 5-7 PM at  Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, Asheville NC -  Winery owner, farmer and winemaker Guy Davis will be in the house pouring his low production, award winning wines. You'll get to taste several wines and meet the winemaker at this informal, walk around tasting. We will bring in a few bottles of each of the wines, but this will mainly be a pre-sell event, and all wines will be offered at a 20% discount by the bottle. Chardonnay Russian River Valley, Cuvée Luke White Blend Sierra Foothill, Riesling Santa Lucia Highland, Pinot Noir "Soul Patch" Russian River Valley, Syrah Russian River Valley, Zinfandel Russian River Valley.  $10/person, $8 for Grape Nuts -  includes palate cleansers.
July 21 , 2-5 PM   FREE Saturday Wine Tasting - free tastes of four wines. This Saturday's lineup will include: 2011 Tenuta Sant'Antonio Scaia, 2011 Vecchia Torre Leverano Rosato, NV Garofoli Antica Osteria Rosso, 2008 Schola Sarmenti Roccamora.

July 20,  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.


July 21, noon - 6 PM   RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC   Ted Hawkins and Friend will entertain you with voice, piano and violin. Frank and troops will be pouring tastings of RagApple Lassie's awesome wines, and the Back Door Café will have lots of choices for hungry tummies. All this, plus the promise of a good time in the relaxing atmosphere of RagApple Lassie.

June 21,   2 - 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.

July 21,  4-8 PM   Appalachian Vintner, 2-B Huntsman Place, Asheville NC - Asheville's "Best" Wine Tasting


July 21, 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

Tom Dooley: A Wilkes County Legend Performed in Wilkesboro

July 20 - 21, 8:30 PM  Tom Dooley: A Wilkes County Legend  The Performance recounts the famous 1860's lovers' triangle tale that became one of the nation's first highly publicized crimes of passion. Performed at the Fort Hamby Amphitheater, the drama brings to life the romance, jealousy, and mystery surrounding the murder of Laura Foster.

In this visually stunning portrayal, audience members are treated to the sights and sounds of frontier NC-from the cannon blast of the Civil War to the fanciful tune of a "mollasy boilin' " dance.

 The performance is held at Forest’s Edge Amphitheatre on Hwy 421 North in Historic Fort Hamby Park, Wilkesboro, NC. Get a link for Tom Dooley and other Wilkesboro events and attractions on the Wilksboro NC Visitor Guide.

BBQ and Bluegrass in Spruce Pine

July 20-21  Spruce Pine BBQ Championship and Bluegrass Festival  This 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.
The highlight of the weekend is a professional BBQ competition, sanctioned by the Southern BBQ Network. Competition categories include pork butts, pork ribs (spare ribs or baby back ribs only), and chicken wings. BBQ Bucks will be sold to the public for the purchase of wings, BBQ sandwiches, BBQ plates, and BBQ by the pound.


One of the featured bluegras bands is Balsam Range,  2011 Winner  IBMA Song of the Year and performer of the #1 Bluegrass hit "Last Train to Kitty Hawk."  Based in Haywood County, North Carolina, Balsam Range consists of five men native to the region. Lucky Streak,  Ron and Minnie Powell, have been together as a couple for over thirty years, and have been singing as a duo for almost twenty years. Barefoot Movement is a group of talented musicians from North Carolina and Tennessee whose music successfully melds Americana influences with the invigoration of acoustic modern rock and jazz.

Get a link for the Spruce Pine BBQ and Bluegrass Festival on the Spruce Pine NC Visitor Guide

Dinosaur Train at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

July 20-22, 27-29 and August 4-6   All Aboard Dinosaur Train™  based on the popular PBS-Kid television series, created by Jim Henson. This adventure filled train ride is packed full with music, stories, entertainment, and activities. PLUS all children will receive their very own Nature Trackers Club guidebook and membership card. Kids will have the opportunity to meet the popular T.rex, Buddy.

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND take advantage of this GREAT DEAL:  Book your Crown Seating reservation for the Dinosaur Train™ and chill with a cool GSMR Personal Fan. In addition, every child 12 years and under, in the reservation, will receive an official Dinosaur Train™ Coloring Book. MENTION CODE: DTFAN

Get a link for tickets and details
on the Bryson City NC Visitor Guide 

Family Gospel Picnic at The Blue Ridge Music Center

July 22  the Blue Ridge Music Center will celebrate faith and sacred music at the Family Gospel Picnic from 2pm-5pm.

This special all-gospel event will feature three of the best gospel groups from the Blue Ridge including Virginia groups: The Good Shepherd Quartet from Pennington Gap, and The Church Sisters (7 member band), from Danville. The Moose Family from Lowgap, North Carolina will provide song-sheets and lead the audience in a gospel sing-a-long at 2pm. Plus, there will also be free Mid Day Mountain Music in the Blue Ridge Music Center breezeway from 12-4pm and the free Roots of American Music museum will be open 9am-5pm.

The Good Shepherd Quartet began as an a cappella  group in the early 80's. They sing an older Appalachian Style of gospel music including rich, four-part harmony and complex vocal arrangements. Although some members have changed, the Good Shepherd Quartet has kept sacred music alive for thirty years as they traveled over much of the eastern United States to deliver their "old" style of music. They have performed in many churches, festivals and other venues including two performances at The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN. The Good Shepherd Quartet have been featured in several magazine articles including "Precious Memories" and "BlueGrass Unlimited", and books such as "The Crooked Road", a history of music.

Originally from the coal mining area of Dickenson County, Virginia, the Church Sisters, twins Sarah and Savannah Church, along with their brother/guitarist, Seth Church, formed a band in 2007 after the sisters won a WAKG talent competition. Since that time, the group has recorded two CDs and has been busy performing in churches, theaters and festivals across the US. The Church Sisters have performed with Rhonda Vincent, the Isaacs, Carl Jackson, Larry Cordle, Tony Rice and others. Their brand new album, There's You (July 2012), features seasoned pickers, Josh Pickett, Adam Steffey and Jenee Fleenor. Once you hear the Church Sisters powerful and beautiful vocals on gospel songs you will want to hear them again and again.
 
 The Moose Family is an old-time gospel family singing group from Lowgap, NC. The family learned to sing from their father, David Moose, who was a singer and instrument maker. Sometimes the group sings with guitar accompaniment but they also sing a cappella. The Moose family has performed across Virginia and have made many recordings.
 
The Family Gospel Picnic concert starts at 3 PM and concert seating opens at 12:30 PM. There will be a 2 PM gospel sing-a-long with the Moose Family (free with concert ticket). Admission $10/ $5 students and seniors. Children 12 and under are free. Bring lawn chairs and the whole family. Picnics welcome. Smokehouse BBQ available

.
No pets or alcohol. For info call (276) 236-5309 x112. Tickets are available at the Galax Visitor Center, Barr's Fiddle Shop, online at www.BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org and at the gate. The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The summer-evening concert series occurs every weekend through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak.

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Catawba Falls Parking

July 20, 11 AM - 12 PM at the Catawba Falls Parking Area in Old Fort, NC. Join the USDA Forest Service Grandfather Ranger District, local leaders and partners for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the parking area for access to Catawba Falls.

The parking area, restroom facility and information center will allow visitors to enjoy this remarkable scenic area for generations to come.  For more information, contact District Ranger John Crockett at 828-652-2144 ext. 103.

Folkmoot USA North Carolina's International Festival

July 18 - 29   Folkmoot USA  - the International Festival of North Carolina, is a two-week celebration of the world's cultural heritage through folk music and dance. Held each summer in a variety of locations across the mountains of Western North Carolina, Folkmoot features performances, a parade and workshops by up to 350 performers from about ten countries.

Performers demonstrate cultural heritage through colorful, authentic and original reproduction costumes, lively dance and traditional music. During its 28-year history, over 200 folk groups from more than 100 countries have shared their heritage and culture at the Folkmoot Festival.

Highlights of this year's festival include:
 

• The Parade of Nations and Folkmoot at First Friday Street dance in downtown Waynesville on July 20
• The Grand Opening at the Stompin’ Ground in Maggie Valley on July 20
• Haywood County Arts Council’s International Festival Day on  Main Street in Waynesille on July 21
• World Friendship Day held in the  Stuart Auditorium at  Lake Junaluska on July 22
• Performances in towns across Western North Carolina including: Canton, Burnsville, Bryson City, Asheville, Flat Rock, Cullowhee, Franklin, Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Cherokee, Clyde and Lake Junaluska
• Extravaganza Matinee and evening performances at the Stompin’ Ground in Maggie Valley on July 27
• Candlelight Closing at Stuart Auditorium in Lake Junaluska on July 29.

Get a link for details and a
schedule of Folkmoot USA
on the NC Events Calendar

Scenic Lift Rides on Sugar Mountain

July 4 - September 3    Weekend Scenic Lift Rides  every Saturday and Sunday 10 AM -5:30 PM Bring the kids, a picnic lunch, your mountain bike, or just a friend and enjoy a breathtaking 45 minute roundtrip lift-ride to Sugar's 5,300 foot peak with some of the best scenery in the area. Additional weekday lift ride dates include July 4 - July 6 and Labor Day, September 3..

Get a link for the Lift Rides and more sugar Mountain vacation information on the Sugar Mountain NC Visitor Guide

Hunger Games Fan Tours in Brevard

July 14-15   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.

Cherokee hosts the 8th Annual Festival of Native Peoples

July 13 - 14   8th Annual Festival of Native Peoples  in Cherokee.   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.

Learn more about Cherokee Indian heritage and local attractions on the Cherokee NC Visitor Guide

Mountains in Bloom Garden Festival this Weekend in Highlands NC

July 13 - 15   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 the Mountains in Bloom Garden Festival and other Highlands events and vacation information on the Highlands NC Visitor Guide

Mountain Spirits: Beer and Wine Tastings for the week of 7-12-12

July 12, 5 - 7 PM, Brusin' Ales, 66 Broad Strteet, Asheville NC - Bear Republic Brewing Co. tasting includes:   Peter Brown Tribute Ale is malty American Brown Ale, brewed with molasses, brown sugar, and hopped with Cascade and Centennial;  XP Pale Ale is short for Exception Pale Ale. This light golden pale ale balances the malt and hops for a smooth, drinkable beer that compliments any meal;  Racer 5 IPA This hoppy American IPA is a full bodied beer brewed American pale and crystalmalts, and heavily hopped with Chinook, Cascade, Columbus and Centennial;  Red Rocket Ale is a bastardized Scottish style red ale that traces it's origins to our homebrew roots. This full bodied and hoppy brew finishes on the palate with sweet, caramel malt flavors;  Hop Rod Rye A high gravity IPA brewed with 18% rye malt. Hop Rod Rye has a floral hop aroma and subtle caramel notes with a slightly earthy and spicy rye character;  Big Bear Black Stour is a big, black, stout you can really sink your teeth into. The bold, roasty, caramel malt flavor is balanced by Centennial and Cascade hops.

June 12,   7 PM - 5 PM  The Wine Guy, 555 Merimon Ave and 1200 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville NC. Summertime White Wine Tasting - Sample 9 delightful summertime white wines from around the world- Vinho Verde, Vermentino, Rhone blends, Albarino, Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc to name a few! If you are looking for some new white wines for warmer weather. Call for reservations (828) 254-6500. $15 per person.
July 14, 2-5 PM  - 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.


July 13,  5 - 7 PM   Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC.  FREE beer tasting: Full Sail Brewing Session Lagers. Session Red - Named World's Best Premium Lager at the World Beer Awards and winner of a slew of other shiny trophies; Session Black - Short, Dark, and Drinkable and seven time Gold Medal Winner including the 2009 GABF! The second addition to family, Session Black,

July 14  , 3-6 PM - FREE Wine Tasting - Cotes du Rhone Wines from France: Reserve de la Dame a l'Oiseau Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2011: This balanced and refreshing white is a blend of 70% Grenache Blanc; Guigal Cotes du Rhone Rose 2011: This wine is one of our absolute favorite dry Roses in the shop. With bounding minerality; Domaine Paul Autard Cote Du Rhone 2011: Another incredible value, this red Cotes du Rhone is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault. 

 

July 13, 4-7 PM at  Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, Asheville NC -  Friday Winedown 545-  Super Juice from Juice: A great lineup of small production from California. John O'Shea from Juice Wine Purveyors will be in house w/nothing but the good stuff. If you like California wines that taste twice as good as they cost, you should make it a point to stop by.  $5 per person, free for Grape Nuts.
July 14 , 2-5 PM   FREE Saturday Wine Tasting and Farmers Market - free tastes of four wines and some of the tastiest, most beautiful and affordable organic vegetables in town.


July 13, 7 PM until,  Classic Wine Cellar, 20 Church Street, Waynesville NC - Friday Night Live music with Jeff and Mike Jaz Duo.  Enjoy music, wine, beer and food including Angelino's small plate menu and flatbreads. July 18 - WOW (Wine on Wednesday) Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Merlot and Temparnillo - FIVE wines for $5. Wnjoy a light meal or cheese plate and get $2 off all WOW wines.

July 14,  4-8 PM   Appalachian Vintner, 2-B Huntsman Place, Asheville NC - Asheville's "Best" Wine Tasting: Tulocay Wines.  2009 Chardonnay, Napa Valley Haynes Vineyard- Mild aromas of lemon pepper, waxy honeycomb and pineapple custard with a round, silky dry-yet-fruity medium body and a zesty, tart apple, spiced almond, and earth accented finish. Nice serenity and balance;  2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Russian River- For the majority of Tulocay's existence — some 30-plus years now — our policy has been to single-vineyard bottle all our Cabernets;  2002 Zinfandel Amador - Our Amador Zinfandels are so-o-o-o representative of the Amador style: big, ripe, generous, playful, jammy, alcoholic, mouth-filling.


July 13,  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.


July 14, 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

The Legend of Tom Dooley Performed in Wilkesboro

July 12 - 14   Tom Dooley: A Wilkes County Legend The Performance recounts the famous 1860's lovers' triangle tale that became one of the nation's first highly publicized crimes of passion. Performed at the Fort Hamby Amphitheater, the drama brings to life the romance, jealousy, and mystery surrounding the murder of Laura Foster. In this visually stunning portrayal, audience members are treated to the sights and sounds of frontier NC-from the cannon blast of the Civil War to the fanciful tune of a "mollasy boilin' " dance.  Additional Dates: July 20-21.

Get a link and details for The Tom Dooley performance and other local events on the Wilkesboro NC Visitor Guide.

Cherokee Mid-Summer Trout Fishing Tournament

July 13 - 15  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.  $11 entry fee - available everywhere Cherokee fishing permits are sold.

Some of the best fishing in the North Carolina mountains can be found int Cherokee NC. 30 miles of streams on the Cherokee Indian Reservation are regularly stocked to add nearly 400,000 to the naturally existing population of fish. Throughout the season, fishing is allowed from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. Creek limit is ten trout per day per permit holder. For those interested in experiencing fishing on the reservation other than in  the streams, three well-stocked ponds are located on Big Cove Road in front of the KOA Campground. 

Get a link to learn more about the Mid-Summer Cherokee fishing Tournament and Cherokee trout fishing on the Cherokee NC Visitor Guide,

Grandfather Mountain Highland Games this Week

July 12-15   The 57th Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and Gathering O' Scottish Clans Join 1000s of Scots in 85 clans decked out in their finest plaid for the annual celebration of Scottish heritage. Live Celtic music, tradition heritage events and Highlands games. New this year is a Saturday night Celtic Rock Concert.

Opening day events include The Bear: Assault on Grandfather, a five-mile footrace climbing 1,568 feet in elevation from the town of Linville to the summit of Grandfather mountain. Over 800 runners will start up the Old Yonahlossee Road from Linville at 7 PM, circle the Highland Games track around 7:15, and head up the Grandfather Mountain summit road.

Throughout the weekend activities include: traditional Celtic music, sheep herding, athletic competitions, music and dance exhibits, History & Genealogy Studies, Children's Tent and Field Activities, harp workshops and more.

On Sunday there will be a 9 AM Scottish Worship Service Outside main gate.  Bring a folding chair. The service ncludes Kirkin' of the Tartans. The day continues with the Children's Border Collie Demonstration on the main field and Celtic Grove Entertainment begins.

Guests of Honor and Distinguished Guests are introduced as all members of the sponsoring clans are invited to march in the Parade of Tartans behind the massed pipe bands. Additional events for the afternoon are: the  Scottish Fiddling Competition and the Atlantic International Highland Dance Championship Competition.

Competitions take place throughout the Games for Scottish athletic events, sheep herding, kilted miles, children's events, Scottish country dancing, Scottish harps and Clan Tugs-of-War.

Get a link for the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and other things to do in the NC mountains on the NC Events Calendar

Blue Ridge Music Center Features Appalachian Songsmiths

July 14 - For the first time, the Blue Ridge Music Center will host a special concert to feature renowned southern songwriters.

Larry Cordle

Larry Cordle was born and raised on a small family farm in eastern Kentucky. While a young child he was introduced to bluegrass, country, and gospel music, by his great-grandfather who played banjo, fiddle and danced. "It was our escape into another world, something we grew up with and looked so forward to, " says Cordle. Likely it is these early years that helped shape the great musician and songwriter that was to come who grew up in the same neighborhood as friend and multi-instrumentalist, Ricky Skaggs.

Most well-known for his hit song "Murder on Music Row," about the death of traditional country music, Larry Cordle knows how to masterfully weave his mountain upbringing and the virtues and vices of the common man into a song. Larry's songs have a raw sincerity and represent down-to-earth mountain people, their values and way of life in the South. His deep voice and relaxed presence on stage combined with an all-star group of pickers, (nominated twice for grammy's), has made this band very popular.

Cordle's songs have also been appreciated and recorded by well known bluegrass & country artists including Skaggs, Alison Krauss, Rhonda Vincent, Garth Brooks, George Strait, Trisha Yearwood, Reba McEntire, Diamond Rio, Alan Jackson, Trace Adkins and many others.

Also a part of the Appalachian Songsmiths concert is "Lady of Tradition," Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road whose songs keep climbing the bluegrass charts but are even better live.

 The band's distinct sound and old time flair can be attributed to bluegrass-rich area of North Carolina from which they hail and borrow their name. Carolina Road's performance is a hard driving traditional sound with invigorating instrumentals and smooth blending vocals. The band recently released their second album,Back to My Roots, on Rural Rhythm Records.

Prior to the concert will be a special performance-talk on the "Craft of Songwriting" (small theater) featuring both bands. Limited seating. $5 or Free with concert ticket. 5pm. Call (276) 236-5309 x112 to reserve seating.

The Appalachian Songsmiths concert starts at 7 PM. Concert seating opens at 5:30 PM. Admission $12/ $10 students & seniors. Children 12 and under are free. Bring lawn chairs. Picnics welcome. Smokehouse BBQ will be available.

For info call (276) 236-5309 x112. Tickets are available at the Galax Visitor Center, Barr's Fiddle Shop, online at  and at the gate.

Come early and enjoy the free, new museum, the Roots of American Music. The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The summer-evening concert series occurs every weekend through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak.

July 8 The Big Crafty at the Asheville Art Museum Today

July 8  The Big Crafty returns to the Asheville Art Museum. 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 now available online. This is a free, family-friendly event.

In addition to the Craft Event, be sure to browse the Museum's many current exhibits. Stop by the Family Art pARTy from 1 PM to 4 PM offering Hands-on art activities for all ages.

Get a link for the Big Crafty and other Asheville events and attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

Art and Music this Weekend in Asheville

July 7   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.

July 7   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 8   The Big Crafty The Big Crafty returns to the Asheville Art Museum. 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 now available online. This is a free, family-friendly event. In addition to the Craft Event, be sure to browse the Museum's many current exhibits. Stop by the Family Art pARTy from 1 PM to 4 PM offering Hands-on art activities for all ages.

Get a llink for Shindig on the Green, The Curiosity Market, The Big Crafty and other Asheville events and attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

26th Annual Christmas in July Festival

July 6-7   26th Annual Christmas in July Festival Visit historic downtown West Jefferson in beautiful Ashe County for the 26th Annual Christmas in July Festival. Friday night, July 6, finds live music featuring the best in bluegrass, old time, gospel and country music from The Buck Haggard Band and Wolf Creek Band, street dance and food vendors from 6-10 PM.

Saturday brings the full festival to life with art and crafts, music acts featured all day long, civil war reenactments, food and fun, fun, fun from 9 AM - 7 PM. Christmas in July is a FREE event featuring the very best in traditional mountain music and handmade crafts from throughout the northwest mountains of North Carolina.

Get a link for the Annual Christmas in July Festival and other local events on The West Jefferson NC Visitor Guide.

Blue Ridge DanceFest­ at the Blue Ridge Music Center

 July 7  : Blue Ridge DanceFest­   Celebrate the holiday weekend with two great old-time stringbands and some of the best flatfoot dancers from Virginia and North Carolina!  Whether you love to dance or just prefer to watch, you won't want to miss the Independence holiday weekend concert on July 7th. This show, dedicated to mountain dance traditions, is perfect for the whole family with quality entertainment and music for both the young and young at heart.

Award winning flatfoot dancers: Eddie Bond, C.T. Janning, Phil Jamison, Williette Hinton and Anna Roberts-Gevalt from Virginia and North Carolina will converge at the Blue Ridge Music Center to show their best moves along with two of the most popular old-time stringbands: The New Ballard's Branch Bogtrotters and Mountain Park Old-Time Band - providing the best traditional dance music a dancer can dream of.

Come early and enjoy the free 5 PM dance showcase in the BRMC small theater (phone to reserve seating) and learn some dance steps yourself at Phil Jamison's 6pm flatfoot dance workshop, (free with concert ticket-all levels welcome).

The New Ballard's Branch Bogtrotters are well known for their high-energy dance tunes and fiddler, Eddie Bond's soaring vocals. The NBBB have won the prestigious first place old-time band prize at the Old Fiddlers' Convention in Galax several times, have played across the US and appeared as special guests at numerous festivals including the Smithsonian Folk-Life Festival at the Library of Congress. Mountain Park Old-Time Band always pleases the crowd with their driving fiddle and banjo tunes. This local group can often be found at Fiddlers' Conventions and rural dancehalls throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Blue Ridge Dance Traditions concert starts at 7 PM on Saturday, July 7th. Seating opens at 5:30 PM. Admission $5. Children 12 and under are free. Bring your lawn chairs and Picnics welcome, with Smokehouse BBQ available as usual. What better way is there to celebrate the holiday than to be with your friends and family at the foot of beautiful Fishers Peak enjoying and supporting traditional music and dance?  

For info call (276) 236-5309 x112. Tickets are available at the Galax Visitor Center, online at  and at the gate. Come early and enjoy the free, new museum, the Roots of American Music.  The summer-evening concert series occurs every weekend through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak.

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, just north of Boone in Galax VA.