Winter Wonderland at the Grove Arcade in Asheville NC

November 21 - January 4, 2015   Winter Wonderland at The Grove Arcade   Asheville's historic downtown arcade displays all the trimmings of the holiday season along with exhibits from the annual National Gingerbread House Competition display, co-hosted with The Grove Park Inn. 

Santa will be visiting the Arcade on Saturdays from noon – 4 PM, November 29 and 30 and December7,14,21 . Photos with Santa will be available for purchase. In addition to the Arcade’s restaurants regular evening hours, many shops will be open until 8:00 PM on Fridays, starting November 28 until December 20.

The Historic Grove Arcade on Battery Hill decks its halls and lights the building for its 2014 Winter Wonderland. Sing holiday carols with the Asheville Symphony Chorus and make holiday ornaments. View the gingerbread houses from Omni Grove Park Inn National Gingerbread House competition. Have photos with Santa and listen to holiday stories while enjoying hot cider and refreshments. “It promises to be a memorable evening,” says Darr Conradson, President of Grove Arcade’s Merchants Association.

For a $1 donation to MANNA Food Bank’s Back Pack Program, children make a holiday ornament to decorate a Grove Arcade Christmas tree or to take home. Mountain Made and artists organized by the Asheville Area Arts Council help design and make these ornaments. 

The Asheville Symphony Chorus is the evening’s main event. Over forty chorus members are on hand to celebrate the evening with traditional and contemporary carols. The chorus sings for approximately 45 minutes, finishing with a rousing version of the classic Hallelujah Chorus. “We are so excited to be a part of this celebration, our music will soar in the Arcade-what a thrill!” says Asheville Symphony Chorus’s Cynthia Sprau. All the while, visitors can enjoy cider and cookies.

The Grove Arcade  - Built by E.W. Grove, the visionary and creator of the Grove Park Inn, the Grove Arcade opened in 1929 and thrived until World War II as one of the country's leading public markets. Asheville's historically renovated Grove Arcade has once again returned as a destination featuring the best the region has to offer from fabulous foods to delicious dining and local crafts. The wonderful design and architecture alone are worth a trip to Asheville. Located at 1 Page Avenue, downtown Asheville NC. Some of the Grove Arcade shops, restaurants and galleries include: 

Daily Essentials Asheville barber and beard Fresh Quarter Produce Make Up at Grove Arcade Marc Edwards and Co. Printville Private Mtn. Communities Realty World RENCI Studio Flora Dive The Eye Center The Watchmaker's Shop Wake Foot Sanctuary

Shopping and Galleries
Alexander and Lehnert
Appalachian Strings
Asheville Area Arts Council
Asheville NC Homecrafts
Bath Junkie
Battery Park Book Ex.
Caravans
Enter the Earth
Four Corners Home
Mission at the Grove
Mountain Made
Roberto Coin
Stevenson Rare Coin
Tic-n-Time

Dining and Desserts
Burgerworx
Carmel's Ktchen and Bar
Chorizo
Modesto
Nutz About Fudge
Santé Wine Bar/Tap Room
Thai Tara
True Confections

En Plein Air
The Portico Market on our south end has a variety of vendors; some have been there from day one, others come through occasionally. It is always a thrill to find out what you might find at our truly unique Portico Market.

 

Gingerbread House Competition and Exhibit Opens This Week in Asheville

November 19, 2014 - January 1, 2015   The National Gingerbread House Competition and Display Contestants from across the country bring their architectural masterpieces to The Grove Park Inn in Asheville NC  for display over the holidays. Delight in the imagination shown in these sugar-and-spice creations, strolling through the competition is a sure way to be swept up in the holiday spirit. 

There is no admission charge to view the entries to the National Gingerbread House Competition. In addition to the gingerbread overload, see the beautiful holiday displays throughout and warm by the giant fireplaces in the grand lobby. Pick up a map in the lobby to find the various areas where the entries are displayed.

The Omni Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa - Renowned spa, scenic golf course, sports complex with pool, tennis, racquetball, training. Onsite restaurants, lounge, bars. A large variety of rooms and suites, varying stages of updates with some original Inn antiques.   See current BEST rates and SAVE with online booking

Christmas Tree Lighting in North Wilkesboro

November 21, 2014   Light Up Downtown   Annually, Historic Downtown North Wilkesboro kicks off the Holiday Season with the lighting ceremony soon after dusk. Main Street is filled with the lights, joys, smells, and sounds of Christmas. 

Santa will be in the lobby of Wilkes Towers ready for photos with the little ones. Local community groups take part in in providing hay rides, live entertainment, food, crafts, kids activities and more.

Get complete local information on the Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro NC Visitor Guide.

 

A Christmas Carol at The Flat Rock Playhouse

November 20 - December 21, 2014   The Flat Rock Playhouse Presents A Christmas Carol   The words of the Dickens classic come to life. This new, adventurous interpretation of A Christmas Carol takes the famous story and infuses it with laughter, love and a brand new score that celebrates the holiday season. With over a dozen new songs and exciting new characters, this world premier is a Christmas event for the whole family. Tickets are $40.

For 60 years the Flat Rock Playhouse, The State Theatre of North Carolina, has been thrilling audiences with Broadway musicals, comedy and drama. From the Youth Theatre education program to the professional main stage performances, the Flat Rock Playhouse offers some of the best live entertainment in Western North Carolina.  The Theatre is located at 2661 Greenville Hwy in Flat Rock NC. 

Mountain Spirits: Friday Night Wine Tasting

November 14 from 5:30 - 8 PM at  Maggie B's Wine and Specialty Store, 10 C South Main Street, Weaverville NC - FREE - "Highly Rated Wines" Tasting. Wine Spectator, Wine Advocate, Wine Enthusiast - All of these publications rate wines based on many different criteria that help the consumer to find some amazing gems.  This week Maggie B's will be pouring some of those treasures with very high ratings, and very impressive juice. 

Deal of the Week:  5 County Multi-Cheddar - WAS: $19.99/lb. - THIS WEEK: $16.99/lb.

Annual Holiday Parade in West Jefferson this Weekend

November 15, 2014   Annual Holiday Parade   The Holiday parade begins at 3 PM followed by the 1st Annual Light up the Town event starting around 5:30 PM. The Downtown will be lit at dusk with lighted displays and decorations. Businesses will be all decked out for the Holiday season many will also have extended hours to start your Holiday shopping early. 

Food specials and live music at will be offered by downtown restaurants. Visit stores for chances to win prizes. End your evening at the WJ Methodist Church Hensley Hall for Coffee House Live with great entertainment and refreshments beginning at 7:30 PM.

Get links for lodging, attractions and information on the West Jefferson and Jefferson NC Visitor Guide.  

Veteran's Day Events in the NC Mountains

Date:      November 7 - 11, 2014
NC City:  Chimney Rock
Event:      Veteran’s Day Special: Free Admission For Vets to Chimney Rock State Park   Veterans, reservists, retired and active military personnel are our American heroes, so the Park  honors your service with a free visit to Chimney Rock State Park during November 7-11, 2014. Must present military ID or proof of service. Free admission only for military members with ID. Get $2 off per adult and $1 off youth for others in your vehicle, up to 6 people. Military discount on admission available year-round.

Date:      November 11, 2014
NC City:  FRANKLIN
Event:    Veteran's Day Parade   11 AM in downtown Franklin.

Date:      November 11, 2014
NC City:  CHEROKEE
Event:     Veterans Day Celebration   An honors ceremony held at the Cherokee Welcome Center and Fair Grounds.  

Date:     November 11, 2014
NC City: Columbus
Event:    Veteran's Day Celebration    The parade begins at 10:00 AM in downtown Columbus, starting on Mills Street (108). There will be a short Memorial Service at 11:00 AM with a wreath laying ceremony and dove release. Spectators are requested to wear red, white and blue and wave their American flags. (there will be hand flags passed out at the parade). Veterans may wear their uniforms and awards and, if desired, join their branch of service comrades in the Staging Area and march in the parade. Bleachers will be available for disabled vets who are unable to march. 

All Aboard the Polar Express this Weekend

November 7 - 8, 2014 (event continues through January 4, 2014)   The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad   The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. 

Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. 

Enjoy singing Christmas carols during the trip back. Kids of all ages will believe in the magic of the Holiday season. 

Get links for local lodging, restaurants and information on the Bryson City NC Visitor Guide.  

 

Culinary Weekend Begins Tomorrow in Highlands

November 6 - 9, 2014   Highlands 8th Annual Culinary Weekend   Eat, Drink, and be Merry at this taste-full Annual Culinary event. The Opening Night Gala will be at the Highlands Country Club on Thursday night November 6th. 

On Friday and Saturday enjoy different events and Dinners throughout Highlands and the Sip and Stroll will be Saturday which will take you throughout town and into the unique shops.

Highlands NC accommodations range from historic inns and quaint bed and breakfasts to hotels and cabins. Golf, mountain hiking, biking, canoeing and river rafting are some of the area's main attractions. Highlands is known for the quality of its cultural activities and restaurants and its charming downtown shops. The Highlands Playhouse is an equity theater with four or five productions during the summer season. Highlands NC restaurants are among the finest in Western North Carolina - and that's quite an accomplishment!  

Cherokee Rod Run - a favorite Fall Car Show and Cruise

November 7 - 8, 2014   Cherokee Rod Run   This popular event includes 100's of cars, neatly groomed and highly shined, ready for you to feast your eyes upon. One of the prettiest events in Cherokee. Show and shine, cruise the mountains, enjoy live music and lots of fun.

The car show is held at the Acquoni Expo Center in downtown Cherokee NC. 

Annual Culinary Weekend in Highlands NC

November 6 - 9, 2014   Highlands 8th Annual Culinary Weekend   Eat, Drink, and be Merry at this taste-full Annual Culinary event. The Opening Night Gala will be at the Highlands Country Club on Thursday night November 6th. On Friday and Saturday enjoy different events and Dinners throughout Highlands and the Sip and Stroll will be Saturday which will take you throughout town and into the unique shops.

Get links for lodging and local attractions on the Highlands NC Visitor Guide. 

 

Halloween Events in the NC Mountains

Date:       October 25 - November 1, 2014
NC City:  CHEROKEE
Event:      Cherokee Haunted Adventure Four haunted attractions in one location. A "Scare Free" Kids Zone will be open for all ages who like to have Halloween fun, but don’t like the scary things that go bump in the night. Haunted Theatre Walk through one of the most haunted outdoor theatres as the most terrifying acts take place behind the scenes. Horror Dorm Hide or die. See if you can survive a horrific game of hide n seek in a dorm filled with your worst nightmares. If found, we will drag your dead body to the mortuary for a   ....read more

Date:        October 30 - November 2, 2014
NC City:   HENDERSONVILLE
Event:      The Haunted Farm If you dare... come visit this spooktacular farm sitting on a mysterious, blood-soaked stretch of land where the deranged Missy Mae Lively eternally pines for her lost groom. The Farm is frightful fun with three main parts: The Woods, The Farm and The Haunted Hayride. New for 2014 - more than 1000 square feet of inside terror, bringing it to more than ....read more

Date:        October 31, 2014
NC City:   HENDERSONVILLE
Event:      Trick-or-Treat Street in Historic Downtown Hendersonville   Beginning at 5:30 PM you can come enjoy our wide sidewalks & friendly merchants for some of the safest most enjoyable trick or treating in the area. Other events include a dance party extravaganza with returning DJ, Sid the Surf, as well as a Halloween costume contest held in....read more

Date:       October 31, 2014
NC City:  WAYNESVILLE
Event:      Treats on the Street Participating downtown Waynesville merchants open their doors for trick-or-treaters on Halloween evening. This is a safe and fun adventure for costumed children and their parents to stroll the sidewalks in search of delicious candy and special treats. Waynesville Fire & Police Departments ....read more

Date:       October 31, 2014
NC City:  HIGHLANDS
Event:     Highlands Downtown Halloween    Trick-or Treat in a safe environment in Downtown Highlands. The streets are closed to vehicles with foot traffic only and children, parents, and even pets may walk around in customs collecting goodies from  ....read more  



October 31, 2014
NC City:  BOONE
Event:     Boone Boo! Ghosts, ghouls and goblins hit the streets of Downtown Boone for the Annual Downtown Boo Boone. The fun begins at 4:00 PM at the Watauga County Library with crafts and activities for the kids. At 4:30 pm there will be a parade to the Jones House Community Center followed by a "haunted house" with prizes, games and candy and concluding with Trick or Treating at  ....read more   

Date:       October 31, 2014
NC City:  WILKESBORO
Event:     Candle Light Ghost Tours   Come out for an evening of tales, mystery and haunts at the Candle Light Ghost Tours. Learn about the ghosts that haunt the old buildings that make up downtown Wilkesboro. Visit a cemetery where Civil War Soldiers are buried, stand in the jail cell Tom Dooley spent his last days, and listen to the stories of the haunted Smithey Hotel. Tickets will be sold on the Courthouse lawn at the museum and at the  ....read more   

Date:       October 31, 2014
NC City:  NEBO
Event:     Halloween Eve Wine, Fish Fry and Costume Party   South Creek Vineyards will be serving up local fish or letting the brave catch their own - if they dare. You can avoid the terror and wine down on the vineyard deck while listening to live music by Rory Kelly. Wicked, scary and scandalous costumes welcome but optional. Your purchased ticket includes: Fishing and you keep the fish from the stocked lagoon - you will need to bring your own fishing gear and lawn chair; Catered fish and chips dinner, fried fresh on site; A glass of South Creek wine. Costume Contest 7 PM with the voted best winning a bottle of South Creek Wine. Live music by....read more   


Date:       October 31 - November 1, 2014 Friday and Saturday evenings 7:30 PM
NC City:  BLOWING ROCK
Event:     Ghost Train Halloween Festival at Tweetsie Railroad   Advanced ticket purchase is recommended for this very popular event. Fun for the whole family this ghastly special event admission includes: all the nighttime activities in the park - the ride on the Ghost Train, trick-or-treating for the kids, Haunted House, Tweetsie Palace Spooktacular, the rides in the Creepy Carnival, and the attractions in "The Boneyard” section, featuring the Black Hole, 3-D maze, and....read more   

Find links and details for more events 

and festivals on the 

NC Mountains Event Calendar

 

What to do this Weekend: Cradle of Forestry Presents the Outdoor Drama The Legend of Tommy Hodges

October 24 - 25, 2014   The Legend of Tommy Hodges outdoor drama at the Cradle of Forestry    Enjoy this legendary mystery about the disappearance of a 1906 Biltmore Forest School student. The Cradle of Forestry will present this outdoor drama along the paved, one-mile Biltmore Campus Trail. As the audience walks the trail from scene to scene it meets characters from the historic Pink Beds community and hears stories, some based on the diaries of students who attended the Biltmore Forest School from 1903-1907.

Warm clothing, walking shoes and flashlights are recommended.

Get links for local lodging, dining and attractions on the Brevard NC Visitor Guide.

 

Mountain Spirits: Classic WIneSeller Live Music this Weekend

October 23, 24, 25 at The Classic WineSeller located at 20 Church Street in historic downtown Waynesville NC offers a three-day weekend full of live music:

Mountain Spirits: McRitchie Winery Hosts Cider Day

October 25 from 12 PM tp 5 PM at McRitchie Winery and Ciderworks, ‏315 Thurmond Post Office Road, ThurmondNC (between West Jefferson and Mount Airy) - Cider Day.  This annual Cider Day event promises an afternoon of great hard cider, wine, food and lots of fun in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The event's activities include:

• Complimentary tasting of Hard Ciders - dry and semi-sweet - plus sneak peek of new 2014 ciders.
• New Pear Cider
•  Great food from the new food trailer ... designed to pair with the Winery's hard ciders and wines.
• Locally grown mountain and heirloom apples ... there will be several varieties to taste.
• Fresh pressed cider and apples available to purchase.
• Winemaker Sean McRitchie will be conducting winery tours and talking about the 2014 harvest.
• Bocce and horseshoes for those with lots of energy or to just watch and relax, enjoying a beautiful fall day in the foothills.
• Entertainment from Bandit's Roost.   

Cider Festival Specials: 15% off full case purchases of Hard Cider (20% off for wine club members). 10% off 6-11 bottles of Hard Cider (15% wine club)

No admission charge and Complimentary cider tasting. Full tastings of wine and ciders plus logo glass is $7.  Food is available for purchase and the event will take place rain or shine.

Upcoming events at the McRitchie Winery and Ciderwroks:
November 8: Wine Club Pick-Up & Food Pairing
November 22: Burnin' Wood Barbeque at Winery
November 28-29: Holiday Open House

What to do this Weekend: Cashiers Fall Leaf Festival

October 10 - 12, 2014    Cashiers Leaf Festival    Each year, the Greater Cashiers Area Merchants Association (known locally a GCAMA, or G-comma) sponsors the Cashiers Leaf Festival. This 3-day event celebrates the beauty of the season that's particularly unique to this area.

Featuring arts and crafts from local and regional artisans, food from area restaurants, music from a variety of bands on two main stages, and activities for all ages at various locations throughout the Cashiers Valley, the Cashiers Leaf Festival serves as the centerpiece of the area's Leaf Season.

Find links for complete visitor information including Cashiers restaurants, lodging and maps on the Cashiers NC Visitor Guide. 

Annual Asheville Oktoberfest this Weekend

October 11, 2014    Asheville Oktoberfest    Downtown Asheville's Wall Street will transform into "Little Germany" for the Asheville Downtown Association's 6th Annual Oktoberfest. Internationally-renowned "oompah" band, The Stratton Mountain Boys, returns to the stage with happy yodeling songs, shoe-slapping dances and lively spirited Polka music sure to incite dancing in the street and rousing cheers of "ein Prosit!" 

The event will feature beer tastings from local breweries including Highland Brewing, Asheville Brewing Company, Pisgah Brewing, Green Man Brewery, Boojum Brewing Company, Noble Cider, Catawba Brewing Company, Craggie Brewing and French Broad Brewing Company. 

Many brewers are featuring seasonal ales for Oktoberfest, and will be on hand to discuss their beers. Oktoberfest Games are back as well with some old favorites like the Stein Races and Keg-rolling contests as well as some new ones.

Yancey County Dream Home Tour Includes Fall Lefa Color Views

October 11, 2014 - Yancey County Dream Home Tour   Tour five custom homes with exceptional views of the fall folliage during this 5th Annual event, benefiting the scholarship fun at Mayland Community College. 

“We focused on the ‘wow’ factor for our fifth year. These are wonderful homes featuring gracious living on many different levels,” says event organizer Laura Laughridge, executive director of the Mayland Community College Foundation. “And from a fall foliage standpoint, this should be a great year as there are really amazing views. ”

The tour is self-guided, allowing participants to pick and choose their destinations and schedule. Four homes are accessed via shuttles stationed in close proximity, while the fifth home is a large estate that allows for on-site parking.

Two homes are at a high elevation in the gated Mountain Air community. The remaining three are located off scenic NC Highway 80, just south of Burnsville NC.

Among the homes off NC 80 is the Sabri home, a 58-acre estate that includes a gatehouse, stables and a sprawling craftsman-style home of 4,500 square feet. The estate has rolling farmland framed by some of the highest mountains in the eastern U.S.

“As they were clearing the property, it revealed these beautiful rolling hills that reminded the owner of the meadows in England where she is from, ” Laughridge said.

The Strawn cabin has an extensive collection of local artwork, and the Lombardo home is a custom house with a lodge motif and panoramic vistas from the front deck.

“The way the Lombardo home is perched on the side of a hill, it’s like you’re the only house looking at the mountains,” said Laughridge.

Registration for the Dream Home Tour is from 9 AM to noon at either the OOAK (One of a Kind) Gallery in Micaville or Mayland Community College’s Learning Center in Burnsville. Tour hours are 10 AM. to 5 PM., with a closing reception at 5:30 PM at Ye Old Country Store and the Design Gallery at 7 S. Main Street in Burnsville.

Tickets are $30 a person through Sept. 30, and $40 beginning Oct. 1. Tickets may be purchased online at: www.maylandfoundation.org. For details call (828) 766-1233.

Cherokee Indian Fair Begins This Week

October 7 - 11, 2014    102th Annual Cherokee Indian Fair    Part carnival, part art exhibit and agriculture show, this annual fair features artwork, traditional Cherokee food, nightly musical entertainment, rides and games, and of course, fireworks. 

photo curtsey of visitnc.com

You’ll find Cherokee white oak baskets, pottery and beadwork, and you’ll marvel and the traditional Cherokee contests and competitions like the infamous Cherokee Stickball games. While you’re on the Ferris wheel, be sure to take in the gorgeous fall foliage that engulfs the Great Smoky Mountains this time of year.

Get links for local lodging, attractions and information on the Cherokee NC Visitor Guide.

 

Blue Ridge Music Center Final Concerts for 2014

October 4, 2014 at 4 PM - The Harris Brothers   and  Kitty Amaral and The Stray Cats.  The Harris Brothers are what you might call songsters. They can draw from a vast repertoire of American traditional music - "Americana" is often used to describe their style, but the Harris Brothers just call it music. Their sound is heavily influenced by traditional blues and Appalachian mountain music, jazz, country, and rock n' roll. No matter what the Harris Brothers play, be it originals or old favorites, they have a special way of making the music their own; it's stripped down, intense, and real, with no gimmicks.

Reggie and Ryan Harris were born into a musical family in the foothills of western North Carolina and have been playing and singing since they were children. For the last 17 or so odd years they have honed their skills as a duo, performing everywhere from honkytonks to popular festival stages. They most often perform with just an acoustic guitar, a bass, vocals and an old suitcase used for a kickdrum, with Reggie sometimes switching to fiddle, banjo, or electric guitar.

Kitty Amaral began fiddling at age five in Southwestern Virginia. She formed the band "Kitty & the Stray Cats" with her mentors in Old-Time Music in recent years. She has a unique collection of songs and tunes ranging from Southwestern Virginia and the Carolina Appalachians to Oklahoma, Ozarks, and beyond. The band includes; Donna Correll on bass, Kyle Dean Smith on banjo and Harrol Blevins on guitar with occasional guest artists on the mandolin. The band shares unique songs and tunes which may otherwise be lost from recent repertoire lists, as well as many favorites still popular today.

October 11 at 4 PM - The Steep Canyon Rangers  and  The New Spring Valley Boys.  You won't want to miss The Blue Ridge Music Center's 2014 Concert Season Finale with Grammy Award Winning Bluegrass Group The Steep Canyon Rangers and guests, The New Spring Valley Boys. 

Come early for a special Pre-Show Music and Mingle Artist Reception sponsored by Creek Bottom Brews of Galax. The Pre-Show Reception will be held in the breezeway of the Music Center beginning at 2 PM. Only 100 tickets will be sold for the Pre-Show Reception, so be sure to get yours early.

• Pre-Show Music Mingle Artist Reception will feature beer (provided by Galax VA's own Creek Bottom Brews), wine, and heavy hors d'oeuvres. All included with ticket purchase price. 

• Tickets for the Pre-Show Music-Mingle Artist Reception are $50 (includes a reserve seat at the concert) and are on sale now. For tickets call the offices of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation at # 866-308-2773 x 245. 

• Individual concert tickets are $20. 

• Ticket Package (Concert Ticket + Pre-Show Reception Ticket ) is $50.

• Concert tickets can be purchased through the online website box office www.BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org/10-11.htm or by calling the offices of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation at # 866-308-2773 x 245.

The Steep Canyon Rangers are an American bluegrass band from Brevard, North Carolina. In 2013 their album Nobody Knows You won a Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album. The previous year, their 2012 collaboration with Steve Martin, Rare Bird Alert, was nominated for the same award.

The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awarded Martin and The Steep Canyon Rangers Entertainer of the Year in 2011. In 2008, the band received nominations from the IBMA for Album of the Year and Gospel Performance of the Year. The Steep Canyon Rangers have been nominated for the 2014 IBMA Awards, this time in the Instrumental Record Performance of the Year category, for the song "Graveyard Fields," written by mandolin player Mike Guggino, from the bands most recent album release Tell The Ones I Love. The Steep Canyon Rangers recently partnered with the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation and Bonesteel Films to protect Graveyard Fields, one of the Blue Ridge Parkway's most treasured spots.  

The Asheville-based bluegrass band and the film company have created a public service video to help the foundation with its fundraising efforts to complete an improvement project at Graveyard Fields, located at Parkway Milepost 418 near Asheville and Brevard, as well as other projects along the Parkway. The PSA appears online at www.brpfoundation.org/GraveyardFields.

The band's instrumental, "Graveyard Fields," accompanies scenes of the spot along the parkway. The band's mandolin player, Mike Guggino, wrote the song for the groups' latest album, Tell The Ones I Love.

The Blue Ridge Music Center is operated by The National Park Service, and the Music Center's programming is coordinated through a partnership with the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.  The Music Center is located north of Boone NC at Milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, 700 Foothills Road in Galax VA.

Art and Music Events this Weekend Mark the Beggining of Fall Leaf Color

Art Walks:

Date: October 3, 2014
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk Enjoy the fine art and craft of the Asheville Downtown Gallery Association and see on of the reasons Asheville has been voted #1 small city in the country by the readers of American Style Magazine 2 years running. 20 downtown venues participate with a complete Downtown Gallery Guide and a map available at...  Read more and get a link here

Date: October 3. 2014
NC City: WAYNESVILLE
Event: Art After Dark Downtown galleries and studios remain open until 9 PM. The evening features special openings, demonstrations, artist receptions, and music...  Read more and get a link here

Date: October 3, 2014
NC City: BOONE
Event: First Friday Art Crawl in Downtown Boone Experience the thriving Boone arts community, see an array of different performers and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Shops and businesses remain open to the public for...  Read more and get a link here

Art and Music Festivals:

Date: October 4, 2014
NC City: NORTH WILKESBORO
Event: Brushy Mountain Apple Festival and Apple Jam This event is one of the largest one-day arts and crafts festivals in the Southeast and features a variety of arts and crafts, food and entertainment. It is preceded on Friday evening by The Apple Jam, live music beginning at 6 PM and continuing...  Read more and get a link here

Date: October 4, 2014NC City: DILLSBORO
Event: ColorFest, Art and Taste of Appalachia Autumn's colors and flavors take center stage during this popular annual festival. This arts and food event fills the sidewalks of Dillsboro with a variety of mountain artisans demonstrating their skills, plus food...  Read more and get a link here

Date: October 4, 2014
NC City: MARS HILL Event: Madison County Heritage Festival Traditional mountain music and old-time craft demonstrations, local arts and crafts fill the town of Mars Hill and the Mars Hill College campus at this family-friendly festival. Food available from...  Read more and get a link here

Date: October 4 - 5, 2014
NC City: BRASSTOWN Event: John C Campbell Folk School Fall Festival Celebrate the rich heritage of Appalachia at the 41th annual Folk School Fall Festival, featuring over 200 juried and non-juried craftspeople. Handcrafted items for sale include jewelry, woodturning, pottery, weaving, ironwork, photography, rugs, woodcarvings, furniture, paintings, baskets, and much more. Live music and dance on two stages, great food, craft demonstrations, and kids' activities including pony rides are just a ...  Read more and get a link here

Art  and Craft Markets:
 
Date: October 4 - 5, 2014
NC City: HENDERSONVILLE Event: Art on Main This is the 55th annual fine arts and fine crafts show again held in Historic Downtown Hendersonville. The Downtown area is transformed into a giant outdoor art gallery featuring the finest artists and artisans from the...  Read more and get a link here

Date: October 4, 2014
NC City: OLD FORT
Event: ArtsMart   Locally created arts and crafts. Stop by to chat with the creators of these one-of-a-kind items while you shop for yourself, family or friends. Something for everyone including baskets, paintings, woodwork, wreaths, candles and...  Read more and get a link here

Date: October 4, 2014
NC City: BLOWING ROCK
Event: Art in the Park A juried art and crafts show featuring 90 artists held in the picturesque downtown park once a month from May through October. Some of the best local and regional artists and craftspeople showcase their handcrafted jewelry, pottery...  Read more and get a link here

Date: October 4, 2014
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: Asheville Art in the Park The finest handcrafted art in the area is on display and for sale at Pack Square in downtown Asheville. Nationally known artists exhibit at this event and the best part is- they are local. Muddy Knees Design and ...  Read more and get a link here

Music Events:

Date: October 3, 2014
NC City: NORTH WILKESBORO
Event: Brushy Mountain Apple Jam A musical event held at the corner of 10th and Main in downtown North Wilkesboro, the Friday evening preceding the Apple Festival. This year Taylon Hope Miller joins the...  Read more and get a link here

Date: October 4, 2014
NC City: MARS HILL
Event: Bascom Lamar Lunsford Music Festival An all-day festival celebrating regional music and dance traditions. The event is the second oldest folk festival in Western North Carolina and was named in honor of cofounder Bascom Lamar Lunsford. Lunsford was a musician and folklorist who dedicated his life to collecting and promoting the music of the Southern Appalachians. Through his work he became known as...  Read more and get a link here

    

Chimney Rock State Park Nature Programs

 October 4 - 5, 2014    Grady's Wildlife of WNC at Chimney Rock State Park   Come meet some of Grady the Groundhog's live woodland friends and learn about their natural habitats. Or marvel at our Birds of Prey, including a Red-tailed Hawk and Great Horned Owl. 

The family-friendly Grady’s Wildlife of WNC programs vary and are offered at 2 PM at the Outdoor Classroom on the Meadows. Best of all, the programs are included with your Park admission. All you need to bring are your kids and their curiosity about the natural world. 

2014 Colorfest Ats and Crafts Fair Includes Exceptional Live Music

October 4, 2014 in downtown Dillsboro NC  -  The 6th Annual ColorFest, Dillsboro Fine Arts and Crafts Fair will include local entertainers live on stage. Those who love musicians who gather around and play because it’s in their blood, this program is for you.  Come prepared to hear the guitar, the banjo, the mandolin, and more, plus clogging at it’s best.  

There will be six full hours of entertainment, beginning at 10 AM. From 10 AM - 11 AM, hear the toe-tappin' blues music of Sugar Barnes and Dave McGill. From 11 AM - 12 noon the J. Creek Cloggers will dance their hearts out. From 12 PM - 1 PM welcome Carolina Dust,  a duo who play a variety of instruments with harmony vocals. From 1 PM -2 PM Ron Smith will entertain with guitar and banjo, playing a variety of music styles. Join the Productive Paranoia group from 2 PM -3 PM, a youthful band who excel in bluegrass and country. Then, from 3 PM -4 PM the legendary Henry Queen will entertain, singing and playing old time mountain music.  Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a colorful autumn in Dillsboro during a festival filled with color - the ColorFest.

ColorFest, Art and Taste of Appalachia   Autumn's colors and flavors take center stage  during this popular annual festival. This arts and food event fills the sidewalks of Dillsboro with a variety of mountain artisans demonstrating their skills, plus food vendors serving up a taste of the North Carolina mountains.  Local musicians and street entertainers add music to festivities, while restaurants and shops are open to serve the crowds throughout the day.  10 AM - 4 PM

Tweetsie Railroad Halloween Ghost Train Begins this Weekend

September 26 - November 1, 2014 Friday and Saturday evenings    Ghost Train Halloween Festival at Tweetsie Railroad Advanced ticket purchase is recommended for this very popular event. The ghastly special events include Ghost Train Rides Exciting Haunted House, Halloween Shows, 3-D Maze, Black Hole™, Trick-or-treating and the Freak Forest.

Find local lodging and information on the Blowing Rock Visitor Guide, Linville Visitor Guide and Banner Elk Visitor Guide. 

 

Flock to the Rock at Chimney Rock Park State Park

September 20 - 21, 2014   6th Annual Flock to the Rock at Chimney Rock State Park   (No additional cost with paid Park admission but “Early Bird” Watch is extra)  The region’s premier fall migration birding event held at Chimney Rock, a birder’s paradise and official site on the NC Birding Trail.
 
The event features live Birds of Prey programs with a Red-tailed Hawk and Great Horned Owl, this weekend includes bird walks guided by local experts, workshops ranging from bird photography to hummingbirds and family nature walks. Kids can get in on the fun too, dissecting owl pellets to see what these birds of prey eat. 

Find links for lodging, dining and attractions on the Chimney Rock NC Visitor Guide.  

 

Chimney Rock State Park Guided Walks

September 19, 2014  Wild Mushroom Walks in Chimney Rock Park   Mushrooms can be found popping up all over Chimney Rock in the summer and early fall, especially after rainfall. Enjoy a casual Friday hike seeking a variety of fascinating fungi along the Four Seasons or Great Woodland Adventure trail. Meet by Grady's Animal Discovery Den in the Meadows - limited to 20 participants, first come basis. This event is included with the Park admission.

Chimney Rock State Park is named for a 500 million-year-old giant granite monolith overlooking Hickory Nut Gorge. Visitors are awed by the breathtaking view that spreads 1200 vertical feet beneath them and 75 miles across the Carolinas. The now state owned park encompasses 1,000 acres offers the best of the mountains in one place with spectacular 75-mile views, hiking trails for all ages, a 404-foot waterfall, a variety of special events and much more.

Get links for local lodging, dining and information on the Chimney Rock NC Visitor Guide 

Antiques and Collectibles this weekend in West Jefferson

September 19 - 20, 2014  Olde Time Antiques Fair   Celebrate Old Town History and Heritage in a festival-like setting in Historic West Jefferson. The event features booths from locals and the general region selling antiques and collectibles. Various businesses, restaurants and Farmers Market in downtown will be participating in this event as well. 

Musical entertainment will be part of the celebration with Stephen Freeman as Elvis on Friday, from 6-8 PM. Bring the whole family for a fun retrospective trip back to the "good ole days". Event times are Friday from 1-8 PM and Saturday from 8 AM-5 PM.

Learn more about West Jefferson NC HERE.  

 

Mountain Song Festival this weekend in Brevard

September 12-13, 2014  9th Annual Mountain Song Festival   held in the beautiful covered, open-air auditorium by the lake at Brevard Music Center. This foot-stomping, banjo-picking celebration of bluegrass and newgrass music will feature Steep Canyon Rangers, O'Brian 3 and Carolina Chocolate drops.

The event supports the Boys and Girls Club of Transylvania County and has become a premier southeastern festival drawing 5000 music lovers annually.

Get links for local information on the Brevard NC Visitor Guide.