Fall in the mountains of North Carolina is a magical time. The air turns crisp, the leaves transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds and oranges, and the towns of Asheville, Black Mountain, Hendersonville, and Waynesville come alive with various festivals and events. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no better time to experience the culture, music, food, and beverages these towns offer. Here’s a round-up of must-attend events happening in the coming months.
August Events
Sourwood Festival
- Date: August 10-11, 2024
- Location: Downtown Black Mountain
- Overview: Black Mountain’s annual Sourwood Festival celebrates the region’s prized Sourwood honey every August. With a line-up of local musicians, honey tastings, and a decadent food fest, this family-friendly event is a favorite of locals and visitors alike.
Bite Me AVL
- Date: August 15 – 18, 2024
- Location: Downtown Asheville, Rabbit Rabbit
- Overview: The festival presents a variety of experiences such as cooking classes, gourmet dinners, interactive workshops, engaging conversations, and late-night events. Bite Me AVL will unite neighbors, food enthusiasts, chefs, creators, and industry professionals during this eventful week.
Hendersonville Apple Festival
- Date: August 30 – September 2, 2024
- Location: Main Street, Hendersonville
- Overview: Kicking off the harvest season, the Apple Festival is a beloved tradition in Hendersonville. Enjoy everything apple—from pies to ciders—while exploring craft vendors, live music, and a Labor Day parade.
September Events
Mountain Song Festival
- Date: September 6-7, 2024
- Location: Brevard Music Center, Brevard (near Asheville)
- Overview: Though slightly outside Asheville, this festival is worth the trip. It’s a celebration of bluegrass and Americana music, with performances from some of the genre’s most respected artists. The festival also supports the Boys and Girls Club of Transylvania County, making it a fun way to give back.
Downtown After 5
- Date: September 20, 2024
- Location: Downtown Asheville
- Overview: On the third Friday of every month from 5pm to 9pm, from April to September, Downtown After 5 has established itself as a key event on Asheville’s cultural calendar. It provides both residents and visitors with the opportunity to enjoy live music in the lively heart of our city.
October Events
Asheville Oktoberfest
- Date: October 5, 2024
- Location: Downtown Asheville
- Overview: A lively event showcasing over 20 local breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries. Enjoy delectable German-style dishes from nearby food vendors and sway to the rhythm of German music.
Apple Harvest Festival
- https://theleaf.org/leaf-october-festival/#:~:text=Join%20us%20for%20LEAF%20Global,%2C%202024%2C%20on%20sale%20NOW!Date: October 19, 2024
- Location: Waynesville
- Overview: Set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Apple Harvest Festival is a celebration of all things autumn. Enjoy fresh apple cider, apple butter, and other apple-related treats while perusing craft booths, live music, and children’s activities.
LEAF Festival
- Date: October 24-27, 2024
- Location: Lake Eden, Black Mountain
- Overview: The fall edition of the LEAF Festival is a weekend-long event featuring an eclectic mix of music, dance, and cultural arts. With performances ranging from folk to world music, it’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the creative spirit of the region.
Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or someone who just loves the charm of small-town festivals, there’s something for everyone in these vibrant communities. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best of what Asheville, Black Mountain, Hendersonville, and Waynesville have to offer this fall.
Enjoy the season, and don’t forget to take in the breathtaking fall foliage while you’re there!
Feature photo credit: via Facebook, Downtown Asheville Association
