Asheville, North Carolina, October 5, 2025
News Summary
The performance by ‘The President’s Own’ United States Marine Band, scheduled at Asheville High School, has been canceled due to the government shutdown. This anticipated concert, the first in 20 years at the school, was expected to attract a sold-out crowd. School officials expressed disappointment, especially for students eagerly awaiting the event. The Marine Band is currently unable to honor public performances until the government funding situation resolves, raising uncertainties about potential rescheduling.
Asheville, North Carolina – The anticipated performance by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, scheduled for Saturday, October 4, at Asheville High School, has been canceled due to the ongoing government shutdown. The Marine Band announced that they are unable to perform public-facing concerts until further notice, contingent on government funding.
The Marine Band was in the midst of a national tour, slated to visit 28 cities throughout the South during October. This included Asheville, where the concert was highly anticipated and had not taken place at Asheville High School in 20 years. School Principal Derek Edwards noted that planning for the event had begun back in December, emphasizing its significance to the school community.
The performance was expected to attract considerable interest, with tickets being free and a sold-out crowd anticipated. However, following the cancellation announcement, there is growing uncertainty about whether the performance could be rescheduled. Edwards indicated that the school has not yet received any communication from the Marine Band regarding potential make-up dates for the concert, which has left both students and staff feeling disappointed.
Asheville High School Band Director Rodney Workman expressed that the cancellation is particularly disheartening for students who were very excited about the event. With the performance now off the table, the school has confirmed there will be no alternative event hosted in its place.
The cancellation highlights the broader implications of the government shutdown, which has affected various federal operations, including cultural events such as this. The Marine Band, known for its rich history and connection to the U.S. Navy, typically plays a vital role in community engagement through performances across the nation. However, until the funding situation is resolved, their ability to carry on such events remains compromised.
As the government shutdown continues without a resolution, many other scheduled events may face similar fates, underscoring the challenges that federal agencies and associated programs are currently encountering. Stakeholders in the arts and community sectors are urging for a swift resolution to ensure that cultural institutions can resume their vital roles in the community.
- Event: United States Marine Band Concert
- Location: Asheville High School
- Date: October 4
- Cancellation Reason: Government shutdown
- Significance: First performance at the school in 20 years
- Expected Attendance: Sold-out crowd with free tickets
- Planning Duration: Ongoing since December
- Rescheduling: Uncertain, no communication from Marine Band
FAQ Section
What event was canceled at Asheville High School?
The performance by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, scheduled for October 4.
What was the reason for the cancellation?
The event was canceled due to the ongoing government shutdown.
How long had Asheville High School been planning the performance?
The school had been planning the performance since December.
When was the last time the Marine Band performed at Asheville High School?
The Marine Band had not performed at Asheville High School in 20 years.
Were tickets for the concert sold?
The tickets for the concert were free.
Does Asheville High School plan to host an alternative event in place of the canceled concert?
The school has no plans to host an alternative event.
Key Features of the Cancelled Concert
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Asheville High School |
| Date | October 4 |
| Performance by | United States Marine Band |
| Reason for Cancellation | Government shutdown |
| Planning Duration | Since December |
| Expected Attendance | Sold-out crowd |
| Last Performance | 20 years ago |
| Reschedule Status | Uncertain |
| Alternative Event | No plans to host |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Marine Band Cancels Performance Due to Government Shutdown
Additional Resources
- WLOS: Asheville High School Marine Band Concert Canceled
- CBS News: Marine Band Cancelled Concert
- WLOS: Gallery of Asheville High School Marine Band Concert Cancellation
- Wikipedia: United States Marine Band
- WLOS: Dripolator Coffee Shop Opens Fifth Location
- Google Search: Government Shutdown

Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.


