Saturday, June 30, 2012

Mountain Artisan Summertime Art and Craft Show this Weekend

June 30 - July 1   Mountain Artisan Summertime Art and Craft Show at WCU Local art and crafts from 10 AM - 5 PM held in the Ramsey Center in climate-controlled comfort. Contemporary art and crafts as well as heritage crafts including quilting, pine needle baskets, blacksmithing, clay art, folk dolls, corn shuck flowers, broom corn brooms, carved spirit sticks, and primitive furniture.

Western Carolina University (WCU) is located in Cullowhee NC, just North of Sylva

Friday, June 29, 2012

4th of July Weekend Events: Cashiers Mountain Music Festival 2012

June 30 - July 1  Cashiers Mountain Music Festival 2012 The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce presents the Fourth Annual Cashiers Mountain Music Festival. Tickets are $25 per day or $40 for a two day pass, children 12 and under are free.

Bring a chair or blanket. No coolers, pets or firearms. Fireworks are planned at dark on Sunday, July 1. Arts, crafts, food, drinks and a children's zone. Musicians are encouraged to bring instruments for jamming in the park. There will be a local church barbecue fundraiser on Saturday, June 30.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Summer Tracks Concert Series this Weekend in Tryon

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

Rus Wilson and the Orchestra entertain with big band music from the 30s and 40s including popular pieces by  Glen Miller, Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman.

Rodgers Park features a 250-seat amphitheater made of stone and a reception/gathering area. A small creek and short trails meander through the park and there are rock walls and beautiful landscaping. Local events and performances are held at the Park including the popular Summer Concert series. The two acre facility is located on West Howard Street behind Tryon NC Town Hall and can also be reserved for private functions.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Blowing Rock Art and History Museum hosts Post Independence Day Parade Party

June 30 -  Just because the parade ends doesn't mean the fun will stop! BRAHM will host a Post-Parade Party  from 2-4 PM. Enjoy popcorn and lemonade and dance to some tunes by local band Soul Benefactor while the kids create festive art and history crafts on the loggia (back porch) of the Museum, just behind Edgewood Cottage. 

Last Minute 4th of July Cabin Special - 2 nights FREE

Last Minute 4th of July Special  - due to a cancellation you get 2 NIGHTS FREE. July 1-7 pay for 4 nights and get the next 2 FREE.  Get photos and reserve HERE

Now available for 4th of July holiday a secluded cabin on 40 acres bordered by a trout stream and the Nantahala National Forest. This 2 bedroom cabin, sleeps up to 6 and includes a stacked stone fireplace, 
large covered porch with rockers and beautifully distressed plank flooring.

There's central heat and air, satellite TV and all the modern conveniences of home, plus  onsite trails.

Local activities include whitewater rafting on the Nantahala, horseback riding, fly  fishing, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, gem mining and more.

4th of July Event: Independence Day Festival and Parade in Blowing Rock NC

June 30    Independence Day Festival and Parade   Downtown games, music and the Grandaddy of all small-town parades. FREE event held in Memorial Park and Main Street.

The event kicks off with a horseshoe tournament offering cash prizes. The day continues with games in the Park, live music, the Country Magic Cloggers, the parade, bluegrass gospel music from the Cockman Family and more. The event ends with a fireworks display on the grounds of the Blowing Rock Country Club.

Get a link for the Independence Day Festival and local information on the Blowing Rock NC Visitor Guide

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Wagons Hoooo!

June 26 - July 4   The 55th Wagon Train The annual Western North Carolina Wagon Train will begin in Andrews and trek along unused roads in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Saddle up to ride and explore the area in and around Andrews and the Valley River valley with the nation's oldest wagon train. Camp in a grassy meadow, ride in a town parade, dance in the moonlight and more.

Monday, June 25, 2012

An Appalachian Summer Begins in Boone

June 24 - July 28    An Appalachian Summer  A month-long arts festival featuring events in music, dance, theatre, visual arts and film on the campus of Appalachian State University. With award-winning artists from all across the world coming to the High Country in one summer, the festival has become an attraction that appeals to the masses and has been ranked one of the "Top 20 Events in the Southeast" by the Southeastern Tourism Society.

From fine art enthusiasts, to country and bluegrass fans and all those who like a good mixture of both, An Appalachian Summer Festival holds steady to their promise of bringing a diverse mix of world-class performances at an affordable price and in the picturesque setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Larry Sparks and The Lonesome Ramblers at the Blue Ridge Music Center

Larry Sparks
June 30, 7 PM - Renowned bluegrass singer  and guitar player, Larry Sparks & the Lonesome Ramblers, return to Galax for a concert at the Blue Ridge Music Center on Saturday.

Sparks has been at the forefront of the bluegrass scene for over 50 years, since he joined the Stanley Brothers in 1964. He was the first to sing with Ralph Stanley after Carter Stanley's death in 1966. During his time with Ralph Stanley & the Clinch Mountain Boys, Sparks performed on the original versions of now bluegrass-standards: Sharecroppers Son, Going Home to Live in Green Pastures and other notable songs.

A few years later, Larry Sparks went on to create his own band the Lonesome Ramblers. Well known as a great songwriter, as well as an award winning vocalist/musician, Larry Sparks penned many hit songs over the decades including: John Deere Tractor, Blue Virginia Blue, I Want to Thank You Lord, A Face in the Crowd and others.  Sparks has received several IBMA awards including Male Vocalist of the Year (twice), and Album of the Year / Recorded Event of the Year with his album "Larry Sparks 40," featuring several artists such as Alison Krauss, Vince Gill, Ralph Stanley, Ricky Skaggs, Tom T. Hall.

His brand new release "Almost Home," on Rounder records, is currently nominated for Album of the Year. Sparks has also been honored with an induction into the Bill Monroe Bluegrass Hall of Fame. In Alison Krauss' words, "Larry Sparks is bluegrass music's Ray Charles, no one can touch him. He is an absolute original."
 
The Buckstankle Boys
Opening up the concert will be the Buckstankle Boys from Mt. Airy, North Carolina. Featuring Andy Edmonds on fiddle, Wes Clifton on guitar/vocals, Seth Boyd on banjo and Todd Hiatt on mandolin, the Buckstankle Boys are a vibrant traditional stringband who learned their bluegrass/old-time music from some of the best older generation players in the Blue Ridge.
 

 
The concert starts at 7pm, Saturday June 30. Seating opens at 5:30pm. Tickets are $12 or $10 for students and seniors. Children 12 and under are free. For info call (276) 236-5309 x112. Tickets are available at the Galax Visitor Center, online at www.BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org and at the gate.

Come early and enjoy the free, new museum, the Roots of American Music. Bring lawn chairs. Picnics welcome. Smokehouse BBQ available. The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. north of Boone NC. The summer-evening concert series occurs every weekend through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak (only 10 miles from Galax).

Saturday, June 23, 2012

Moonshine Madness in Asheville

June 28, 5:30 - 7:30 PM at The TreeHouse Lounge at the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel in Asheville NC.  The Hotel will be partnering with Troy and Sons Distillery for Moonshine Madness, an evening of still and southern spreads  in the ballroom and outdoor terrace at the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel.

The event will feature Troy and Sons Moonshine, paired with Doubletree Catering cuisine and live bluegrass music. Charlie Ball, master distiller at Troy and Sons, along with members of his staff, will be in attendance to showcase their product and discuss the evolution of moonshine. Doubletree executive chef Dan Moore will be creating three signature Troy and Sons moonshine cocktails, each complimented by his southern fare menu using local products. 

Advanced tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the Doubletree front desk or at Troy and Sons Distillery. Tickets will also be available at the door for $25.

Friday, June 22, 2012

Music in the Mountains this Weekend 6-22-12

June 22
NC City: WEST JEFFERSON
Event: Backstreet Park Summer Concert Series
Free summer concert series held every 3rd and 4th Friday nights from May-August, 5:30pm - 7:00pm. Bring your chair, blanket or picnic and enjoy the sounds of traditional, old time, and bluegrass music for ages. Rain locations: the Farmer's Market or the Ashe Arts Center.  Get a link for details HERE

June 22
NC City: HENDERSONVILLE
Event: Music on Main Street
The 14th annual Music On Main Street concert series will be held every Friday evening from June 8 through August 17, 2012. Music On Main Street showcases a diverse lineup of musical talents, from jazz, pop, oldies, rock, to contemporary music. Bring a chair and enjoy the music from 7 PM - 9 PM. Admission is FREE.  Get a link for details HERE

June 22
NC City: SYLVA
Event: Concerts on the Creek Mountain Faith (www.mountainfaith.bandzoogle.com) will be in concert.
Concerts on the Creek are held at the Bridge Park Pavilion in downtown Sylva from 7:30 - 9:30 PM on Friday nights beginning Memorial Day weekend and continuing through the end of July.  Get a link for details HERE

June 22
NC City: WAYNESVILLE
Event: Mountain Street Dance
Put on your cloggin' & square dancin' shoes and enjoy an old-fashioned mountain hoedown. 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.  Get a link for details HERE

June 22
NC City: BREVARD
Event:    Opening Night at Brevard Music Center
Brevard Music Center Orchestra with JoAnn Falletta, conductor, and Norman Krieger, piano. Works by Berlioz, Beethoven, Schmidt and Strauss.  Get a link for details HERE

June 22
NC City:  OLD FORT
Event:   
Old Time Mountain Music - for more than a decade, folks have gathered to hear and play bluegrass and traditional mountain music. Nobody’s paid, everyone’s welcome and coffee and sodas are still just a quarter!  Get a link for details HERE

June 23
NC City:  BRYSON CITY
Event:     Music in the Mountains  7 PM - Regional talent is showcased in a relaxed, outdoor venue located in the heart of historic downtown. Bring a chair or blanket and settle in for an evening of great music.  Get a link for details HERE

June 23-24
NC City: LINVILLE
Event: Singing on the Mountain
Now in its 88th year, the "Singing" is a day-long country gospel convention held out-of-doors in a meadow at the base of Grandfather Mountain. The music begins at 8:30 AM and continues throughout the day, with a break at midday for the sermon. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and picnics and make a day of friends, family and enjoying performances by top Southern Gospel groups.  Get a link for details HERE

June 24
NC City: BREVARD
Event: Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 4 at Brevard Music Center
JoAnn Falletta conducts the Brevad Music Center Orchestra performing Shostakovich's The Gadfly Suite, Glazunov's Concerto for Saxophone and Orchestra in E flat major, and Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4 in F minor. Joseph Lulloff, saxophone. Pre-concert talk at 2:00 PM in Thomas Hall behind the auditorium.  Get a link for details HERE

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Biltmore Offers FREE Admisssion for Kids this Summer

May 23 - September 3, 2012 Biltmore is offering FREE admission for children 16 years old and younger with the purchase of an adult ticket. "America's Castle" has always been a Family Friendly environment from touring a real castle, to playing in the 8,000-acre backyard, or exploring the farmyard filled everyone's favorite animals.  

Every Biltmore restaurant features a children's menu and a helpful wait staff ready with high chairs or other assistance.  The Winery tour includes complimentary grape juice available for kids. Lightweight travel strollers or child backpack carriers are permitted and allow navigation of the house's stairs without overly tiring ease little feet. 


Biltmore's website offers a "Family Fun Itinerary" to assist with getting the most out of your family's visit. Get a link for the Outdoor Adventure Center with Bike rentals, Segway tours, fly-fishing classes, and river float trips provide the opportunity to explore hidden areas of the estate.  If you have family members who love horses there are Carriage rides and guided horseback trail rides which showcase the remarkable pastures, valleys, and panoramic views.

Kids of all ages enjoy a visit to a farm and Biltmore's Farm in Antler Hill Village has something for everyone. The usual barnyard animals are present along with farm equipment, games and demonstrations from Biltmore's history. During the summer, there are daily crafts for youngsters who want to explore their creativity.

Get a link to buy Biltmore tickets online at a discount and learn more about visiting the Estate on the NC Attraction Guide.

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Opening Night at Brevard Music Center

June 22 at 7:30 PM   Principal Guest Conductor JoAnn Falletta and the Brevard Music Center Orchestra will kick off the 2012 season on Friday  with a full program of well-known classical music. Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G major, one of Beethoven's best-known piano concertos, will be performed with BMC faculty pianist Norman Krieger. Also on the program will be Strauss's Suite from Der Rosenkavalier, Op. 59, Berlioz's Roman Carnival Overture and Schmidt's Intermezzo from Notre Dame.



The Brevard Music center is located at 349 Andante Lane in  Brevard, NC. Get more information and a link to the Center;s Website on the Brevard NC Visitor Guide

 

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Brevard Vacation Rental with Senior Discount

Senior Discounts - $700 week, June 11 - July 11. Comfortable and charming vacation rental in the Conservation community of Sherwood Forest, just outside Brevard NC.   2 bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps 4. Open and cover decks, grill, fireplace, hot tub, firepit. Resort community amenities including 5 lakes, golf course, hiking trails, swimming pool, tennis, fitness. $150 - $200 night, $1000 week.    See rental photos and availability


Available 4th of July - Enjoy summer in the Brevard area including The Brevard Musical Festival Concerts, the Land of the Waterfalls and nearby mountain attractions such as Biltmore and Mount Pisgah.

Trike Talk Motocycle Rally This Weekend in Maggie Valley NC

June 21 - 24  TrikeTalk.com Rally in the Valley Triketalk.com is a web-based group devoted to exchange of ideas and advice to all interested three-wheelers. They gather for their annual “Rally in the Valley”.
Wheels Through Time has the welcome mat out for this event with unique “trikes” from the collection on display, including the 1918 “Inauguration” Harley sidecar, the WWI Pigeon Carrier, the Dayton articulated sidecar and the 1933 BlueRidge Parkway “Birthday Bike.” All trike enthusiasts are welcome.

Get a link for the Ralley in the Valley and other Maggie Valley events and attractions on the Maggie Valley NC Visitor Guide

Monday, June 18, 2012

The Flat Rock Playhouse Presents "Red"

June 20 - July 8 at the  Downtown Playhouse in Hendersonville  The Flat Rock Playhouse Presents "Red" Straight from Broadway and the winner of the 2010 Tony Award for Best Play, RED is the story of artist Mark Rothko, who has just landed the biggest commission in the history of modern art - a series of murals for New York’s famed Four Seasons Restaurant.

In the two fascinating years that follow, Rothko faces the agonizing possibility that his crowning achievement could also become his undoing. Emotionally raw and provocative, RED is a searing portrait of an artist's ambition and vulnerability as he tries to create a definitive work for an extraordinary setting.

Performance times are: Wed-Sat 8:00PM, Wed, Thurs, Sat & Sun 2:00 PM. The Downtown Playhouse is located at 125 South Main Street in Hendersonville NC. Get a link for Red and other Local events and attractions on the Hendersonville NC Visitor Guide. 

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Brevard Music Center Picnic and Concert

Enjoy dining on the lawn at the Brevard Music Center through Picnics by Mayberry's. Picnics include your choice of sandwich, salad, dessert, and beverage. Picnics by Mayberry's will be available at orchestra performances held at Whittington-Pfohl Auditorium. You may pre-order online or at the box office at least 48 hours prior to the date or visit the Picnics by Mayberry's kiosk at the Auditorium (WPA) up to 2 hours prior to the performance. Supply is limited if not pre-ordered. All picnics are $15.

Here is a sampling of the picnics being offered:

The Classical: Club Wrap - Roasted turkey, pit ham, bacon and white American cheese with fresh tomatoes and lettuce in a toasted tortilla, and a baked potato salad.

Jazz (Vegetarian): Spicy Orzo Wrap – Spicy orzo with black and white beans, edamame, tomatoes, spinach, lettuce and a spicy sweet Cuban mustard, and a fresh fruit cup.

The Chorus: Layered Salad – Romaine and Iceberg lettuce with homemade dressing mixed with broccoli, green peppers, mushrooms, carrots and baby peas, sprinkled with cheddar cheese, bacon and tomatoes and topped with Italian grilled chicken; served with a breadstick.

Picnics can be purchased via the ticketing site or by calling the box office.

Get a link for the Brevard Music Center and other local information on the Brevard NC Visitor Guide.

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Art in the Park Today in Blowing Rock

June 16 - Art in the Park   Don't miss Blowing Rock's Art in the Park, a juried art and crafts show featuring 90 artists held in the picturesque downtown park once a  month from May to October. Some of the best local and regional artists and craftspeople showcase their handcrafted jewelry, pottery, fiber, glass, photography, painting and more. Prices for objects, from a handmade postcard to a large piece of furniture, range from $5 to $5,000.

Get a link for Art in the Park and more local information on the Blowing Rock NC Visitor Guide

Friday, June 15, 2012

$99 Special on Smoky Mountain Cabin with View

$99 per night - 4th night FREE for stays between 6-10 and 7-10.  This mountain view cabin is currently available for the 4th of July - BOOK NOW before it's taken.  2 master suites, 2 baths, sleeps up to 5. One of the best views you'll ever find. Private stocked lake for fishing, fireplace, wrap around deck, HDTV.  Murphy NC .  Click HERE for cabin photos and online booking information

Get local visitor information on the Murphy NC Visitor Guide.


Father's Day FREE Biltmore Ticket for Dad

Free admission to Biltmore for all dads on Father's Day with the purchase of a youth or adult ticket at the Reservation and Ticket Center. Valid June 17, 2012.

Biltmore America's "Castle" was built in 1895 by George Vanderbuilt and is preserved and maintained today by his descendants. With interior square footage over 4 acres, 250 rooms, 65 fireplaces, 43 bathrooms and an impressive collection of art and period furnishing it is one of the East's most popular attractions.

Once a working dairy farm the 8,000 acre estate now includes a winery with tastings and a wine shop; trails, gardens and grounds to explore; an Equestrian Center, River Bend Farm, a luxury Inn; and the newest addition, Antler Village. Plan on spending at least one full day or more to see all that Biltmore has to offer.

Get a link for the Father's Day Biltmore Special and other NC mountain ticket specials on the Specials and Discounts Directory.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Mountain Spirits: Wine and Beer Tastings for the week of 6-14-12

June 14, 5 - 7 PM, Brusin' Ales, 66 Broad Strteet, Asheville NC - Wilmer Brothers- Portland Oregon tasting.   Nelson IPA: "Take your taste buds on a journey to the far side of the world.   Pitch Black IPA: "Pitch Black IPA takes you to the dark side with our take on Cascadian Dark Ale.  Kill Devil Brown: "Kill Devil Brown Ale's flavor come from the use of ingredients traditionally used by Caribbean distillers.  Raspberry Imperial Stout: "An extremely rich and complex beer, the addition of raspberries during the fermentation process results in an almost purplish opaque color with a beautiful brown head.  Brrrbon 2011: "Barrel Aged Brrrbon '11 is a smooth winter warmer and the first release as part of the Alchemy Project.

June 15,  5 - 7 PM   Hops and Vines,
797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC.  FREE beer tasting:
Session Beer from Founders Brewing. All Day IPA - The beer you've been waiting for. Keeps your taste satisfied while keeping your senses sharp; Cerise - You'll have a soft spot for this one. Using only fresh Michigan tart cherries, this beauty tantalizes with intense flavors combined with a no-hesitation malt bill; Dry Hop Pale Ale - A testament to Cascade hops in a bottle, this medium-bodied pale ale has a refreshing citrus flavor and a distinctive floral hop aroma due to the aggressive addition of hops during fermentation.
June 16  , 3-6 PM - FREE Wine Tasting - South African Win:  AA Badenhorst Secateurs Chenin Blanc 2010- Vibrant, fresh, and balanced, this Chenin Blanc appeals to a wide variety of palates; AA Badenhorst Red Blend - This South African Red Blend is comprised of Syrah, Censault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Carignan, and Mourvedr; Kanonkop Kadette 2010- This blend is 44 % Pinotage, South Africa's signature grape. Blended with Cabernet, and small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. 
 

June 15, 4-7 PM at  Table Wine,
1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, Asheville NC Friday Winedown 545-  
The Different Faces of Grenache: Grenache vines can get very old, sometimes over 100 years  and yield wines with an amazing variety and complexity of flavors.  2011 Eric Texier Cotes du Rhone Blanc; 2011 Bodegas Borsao Grenache Rosé; 2006 Montecastillo Priorat Crianza; 2010 Eric Texier Cotes du Rhone Rouge; 2010 Domaine de Bila-Haut Cotes du Roussillon $5 per person, free for Grape Nuts.
June 19, 7-9 PM  WOW Wines - A bunch of wines that will make you say WOW. John O'Shea from Juice Distributors will present a great tasting of limited production, highly rated wines from all over the world. $20 per person, $10 for grape nuts. Call 828.505.8588 to reserve your spot and pre-pay.



Jan 15, 7 PM until,  Classic Wine Cellar, 20 Church Street, Waynesville NC - Friday Night Live music with Jeff Jablonski is back by popular demand. Jeff has performed with various folk, rock and southern bands over the past 45 years. His original music offers socially relevant topics punctuated by distinct vocals. Enjoy music, wine, beer and food including Angelino's small plate menu and flatbreads.


June 15,  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.

June 16,   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.



June 16
, 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

Chimney Rock Weekend Getaway

Available this Thursday, Friday and Saturday - Give Dad a weekend at Chimney Rock. 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.  See photos and availability

Father's Day Special at Chimney Rock Park

Give Dad a special day by bringing him to Chimney Rock Park for a day of scenic hiking. Buy one regularly-priced adult ticket and dad's ticket is FREE.  If dad is adventurous, put that savings toward a session of guided rock climbing.

Click here
to download the special Father's Day Coupon. The coupon must be presented to the Ticket Plaza at the time of purchase. Valid for June 16 and 17, 2012.

Get more local information and a link for Chimney Rock Park on the Chimney Rock NC Visitor Guide.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Candlelight Ghost Tours in Wilkesboro

June 16    Candlelight Ghost Tours  Come out for an evening of tales, mystery and haunts at the Candle Light Ghost Tours. Learn about the ghosts that haunt the old buildings that make up downtown Wilkesboro. Visit a cemetery where Civil War Soldiers are buried, stand in the jail cell Tom Dooley spent his last days, and listen to the stories of the haunted Smithey Hotel.

Tickets will be sold on the Courthouse lawn at the museum and at the Wilkesboro Open Air Market the Friday before. Tours start at 8 PM

Summer Cabin Special

Log cabin rental located between Wilkesboro and Boone.  June 5 - August 30, 2012 (excludes 4th of July week). Rent 3 nights, receive the 4th night free.

3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 8. Wooded setting, 78 acres, hiking trails, waterfalls. Hot tub, deck with gas grill, wood-burning fireplace, WIFI, picnic table, campfire ring. $215 night, $1075 week. 
see cabin photos and details

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Wilkesboro Open Air Market

June 15   Wilkesboro Open Air Market  Historic Downtown Wilkesboro's popular Open Air Market events series returns in 2012 starting on April 20 and continues the through August. Events will feature downtown merchants, food vendors, local wineries, musicians, regional farms and produce, arts and crafts, demonstrators, as well as non-profit and civic organizations.

Each Third Friday Open Air Market will be themed with live music
, children's activities, contests, and more. The Regular Friday markets will happen every Friday and will feature the freshest produce and handmade crafts of the surrounding area

The Market is open from 4 PM to 8 PM at
102 West Main Street in Wilkesboro, NC.Get a link for the Open Air Market and other local information on the Wilkesboro NC Visitor Guide.

Monday, June 11, 2012

Grandfather Mountain Celebrates Wildlife Habitats

June 13   Birthday Party at Grandfather Mountain's Wildlife Habitats Grandfather Mountain celebrates the birthdays of all the animals in the park with games, contests, crafts and surprises. Grandfather's habitat staff has prepared a fun-filled day for guests as well as programming to celebrate its furry inhabitants.
Grandfather Mountain is the highest mountain in the Blue Ridge Mountain range at an elevation of 5,964 feet. The Mountain is owned by a nonprofit Stewardship Foundation and is operated as a scenic travel attraction and a world-class nature preserve.

The Mile High Swinging Bridge was one of the original features of the attraction giving visitors easy access to the breath-taking view from Grandfather Mountain's Linville Peak. Today, there are dozens of of things to do and events offered including walking and hiking trails; Naturalist programs; the Nature Museum; birding and geology; wildlife habitats; Mildred's Grill and The Fudge Shop. Grandfather Mountain is located at 2050 Blowing Rock Highway in Linville NC.

Get a link for Grandfather Mountain on the NC Parks Guide

Sunday, June 10, 2012

Flat Rock Playhouse Music on the Rock Series Continues with "Stayin' Alive"

Date: June 12-14    Music on the Rock Series: Stayin' Alive - the Music of the Bee Gees The 10 concert 2012 series produced by The Flat Rock Theatre offers a celebration of music form country to pop to Sinatra.The Series is performed at the Playhouse Downtown is located in downtown Hendersonville at 125 South Main Street, Hendersonville, NC

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad hosts Pioneer Weekend

June 9-10    Pioneer Weekend at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad   This special event train departs from the historic Bryson City depot  at 1 PM. Travel along the Tuckasegee River to Dillsboro for a 2 hour layover on Saturday and 1.5 hour layover on Sunday. Enjoy special presentations and old style demonstrations of a true pioneer camp presented by noted story tellers and reinactors of the time period!

Get a link for Pioneer Weekend and other local information on the
Bryson City NC Visitor Guide

Friday, June 8, 2012

Mountain Spirits: WIne and Beer Tastings this week, 6-7-12

June 8,  5 - 7 PM   Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC.  FREE beer tasting: four taps on for free sampling and for purchase or donation by the pint. Highlights include Mark and Alex's American IPA, Alex's Double IPA,(both homebrewed) and for the lighter beer drinkers we'll have French Broad Kolsch and Sierra Nevada Summer Ale. Homebrewers are encouraged to bring beer to this tasting. 
June 9  , 3-6 PM - FREE Wine Tasting:   Portuguese Wines Portuguese wines offer quality at a great price. Come taste three great bottles of wine, all under $10! Broadbent Vinho Verde 20- Vinho Verde is easily one of our most popular styles of wine during the summer months. Conde Villar Vinho Verde Rose 2011 -This new wine in the shop will be a fun new wine to try for Vinho Verde lovers. Cone Villar Tinto 2011 - This red blend from the Vinho Verde region in Portugal delivers a great value.

June 8, 4-7 PM at  Table Wine,
1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, Asheville NC Friday Winedown -  Banshee and Rickshaw Wines
- sample the entire lineup of wines from one of the hottest California-based producers in the US. Banshee Wines are absolutely blowing up all over the country.  Started by three friends, Banshee owns no vineyards of its own but works in lock-step with high-end vineyard owners and wineries to produce wines of depth, purity and balance.  They purchase really good fruit and sometimes finished barrels of wine and blend these lots together to create expressive wines that taste like they cost a lot more than they do.  $5 per person, free for Grape Nuts.

June 9,  noon to 6 PM, RagApple Lassie Vineyards, 3724 RagApple Lassie Lane, Boonville NC   Sample the estate grown wines including Kaleidoscope Red, enjoy the live music of Gray Matter, have lunch in The Back Door Café, tackle the new jigsaw puzzle, or just relax on the patio  June 10 - Open Mic, a benefit for Yadkin Christian Ministries and Surry Community College Student Emergency Fund. All entertainers, musicians, poets or comedians are welcome to share your talents on Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. Registration will begin at 2:00 PM.

June 9,  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.

June 9,   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.
June 13, 7 PM 
Spanish Reds and Whites Tasting   Taste 3 whites and 6 reds from various regions in Spain. Spain continues to produce some of the most outstanding value wines in the world. $20.  Call 254-6500 to reserve a spot!


June 9
, 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 Blue Ridge Music Center - Bluegrass Music for 6-9-12

June 9   Blazing Blue Ridge Bands at the Blue Ridge Music Center Country Bluegrass with Don Rigsby / Whitetop Mountain Band -­ Acclaimed singer/instrumentalist, Don Rigsby joins local supergroup Big Country Bluegrass for an unforgettable night of music. Jump-starting the evening and the flatfoot dancing is favorite old-time group, the Whitetop Mountain Band. 7pm. $12/$10 students & seniors Children 12 & under free. The Blue Ridge Music Center is located Just north of Boone in Galax VA.

Two of the most popular bluegrass and old-time bands in the Blue Ridge will deliver one of the hottest shows of the season this Saturday. Big Country Bluegrass is renowned for their traditional bluegrass sound, old country songs, barn-burner instrumentals and powerful stage presence. They have a strong following of fans everywhere they go as a result. They have joined forces with the legendary Kentucky singer and multi-instrumentalist, Don Rigsby, from the band Midnight Call. Back by popular demand on the same show, is Whitetop Mountain Band. Dancers of all ages will not be able to resist the driving rhythm of this renowned stringband. And Emily and Martha Spencer’s soaring vocals on bluesy and traditional old-time songs will fill you with mountain spirit.

5th Annual A Cool 5 Mile Race Weekend in Beech Mountain

June 8-9   5th Annual A Cool 5 Mile Race Weekend- a compilation of events including pre-race festivities on Friday with a pasta dinner, guest motivational speaker, music, and plenty of games and activities for the entire family. Saturday is race day with the festivities beginning at 9:00 AM with the 5 mile race, featuring cutting edge Jaguar race timing technology, the pet friendly 1.5 mile fun run/walk, and post-race awards party.

Hunger Games Fan Tour this Weekend in Dupont State Forest

Date: June 8-10   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 are provided. Pre-registration required. Cost is $79 per person.  Additional dates:
June 22 – 24 (85% sold out)
July 27 – 29 (SOLD OUT)
August 24-26 (40% sold out)
September 21 – 23 (45% sold out)

DuPont State Forest One of North Carolina's newer parks, DuPont offers more than 10,000 acres of forest, trails, and 10 waterfalls and is located in Cedar Falls NC between Brevard and Hendersonville North Carolina. You can enjoy the trails by foot, bike or horse or bring the fishing gear oand picnic basket. For current Park conditions CLICK HERE.

Get trail and waterfall maps from the Friends of DuPont Forest.
DuPont State Forest is located in Transylvania County near Brevard and Cedar Mountain.

Thursday, June 7, 2012

NC Art and Crafts Events this Weekend

June 7-10
NC City: CULLOWHEE
Event: 2012 Quilt Symposium
3 days of workshops and lectures by well-known quilt instructors. Attendees may stay on campus or attend as a day student. The Quilt Show, in Hinds University
Center will have over 300 quilts, 24 vendors, a silent auction, a raffle quilt, and other events. The admission price is $5 per day. You may also purchase tickets for Linda Cantrell's humorous lecture, “Applique—I did it my way.” The lecture will be Saturday night at... Read More

Date: June 8-9
NC City: TRYON
Event: The Foothills Craft Fair at the 19th Annual Blue Ridge Barbeque and Music Festival
The Blue Ridge Barbecue Festival is one of the area's biggest annual events with fantastic Barbecue, phenomenal music and incredible arts and crafts. Bring the kids, friends, family and more. Held at ... Read More

Date: June 9
NC City: WAYNESVILLE
Event: Appalachian Lifestlye Celebration
A full day celebration of mountain heritage, music, dance, craft, and Appalachian life skills. Educational and entertaining, the event features craft demonstrations such as basketry, wood carving, quilting, along with storytelling,... Read More

Date: June 9
NC City: DILLSBORO
Event: Dillsboro Art and Music Festival  Rafters and Crafters - Celebrate traditional mountain crafts and enjoy lively regional musicians, dancers and storytellers at this historic Dillsboro’s Annual event. In addition to Dillsboro’s unique shops and studios, Front Street is lined with tents featuring all kinds of art and fine crafts including basketry, pottery, weaving, quilting, woodworking, jewelry, stained glass, painting,... Read More

Date: June 9
NC City: BRASSTOWN
Event: Annual John C Campbell Folk School Gala
Held at the John C. Campbell Folk School from 5 PM till 8 PM at the Kieth House. Heavy hors d' oeuvres, drinks and wonderful live music. During this time bidders can socialize and enjoy the Folk School atmosphere while they peruse the wide array of silent auction items. This event is not only ... Read More

Date: June 9
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: Ooh La La Curiosity Market
An outdoor market in Pritchard Park featuring works by local painters, leather smiths, jewelry makers, potters ,up-cycled crafters, and other curious delights, all beneath the colored canopies of large market umbrellas. In addition to the artists, the market will also feature live local music with ... Read More

Date: June 9-10
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event:
Studio Stroll at the River Arts District The first, largest, and most walkable tour of working artists’ studios in the region, the River Arts District Studio Stroll takes place in 19 historic buildings along the French Broad River. There will be artists’ demonstrations and hands-on activities throughout the weekend. There is ... Read More

Date: June 9-10
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: West Asheville Studio Stroll
A behind-the-scenes look at the vibrant arts community in West Asheville which is quickly becoming one of the city's most vibrant arts centers. The tour begins at the east end of Haywood Road ... Read More

    

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

"Cruise the Smokies" Spring Rod Run in Cherokee

June 8-10   "Cruise the Smokies" Spring Rod Run   500 of the nation’s hottest looking classic cars gather to cruise the most scenic drive in North Carolina. More than 3,000 car enthusiasts will turn out for the Southeast’s premiere Rod Run at the Acquoni Expo Center. Gates will be open from 9 AM to 5 PM on Friday and Saturday; 9 AM to noon on Sunday.

Get a link for more information about the Cruise the Smokies Rod Run and other Cherokee events on the Cherokee NC Visitor Guide

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Cherokee cabin with stunning views of the Smoky Mountains

BOOK NOW for the 4th of July or your favorite summer vacation timecherokee cabin in the Smokies - 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, sleeps 6. Beautiful views of the Smokies, hot tub, wood-burning fireplace, charcoal grill. $140-$160 night, $840-$960 week.  See cabin photos, details and availability

Find more Cherokee cabins and lodging on the Cherokee NC Visitor Guide

Annual Cherokee Summer Festival Begins Today

June 5-9  Cherokee Summer Carnival   An annual summer carnival, complete with rides, games and plenty of your favorite carnival foods. This five day event also features local food vendors and arts and crafts.The event is held on the  Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds in downtown Cherokee NC.

Hendersonville's Music on Main Street opens for the Summer Season this Friday

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

Tuxedo Junction will perform at this week's concert.
The Hendersonville Antique Car Club will also host a classic car show in conjunction with the June 9 Music On Main Street.

Get a link for Music on Main and other local information on the Hendersonville NC Visitor Guide.