Asheville, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Comedian Leanne Morgan drew large crowds to downtown Asheville for a recent comedy show, highlighting the city’s appeal as a tourist destination. With nearly 50% of ticket sales coming from beyond 150 miles, the event significantly impacted local businesses. Despite parking challenges, the lively atmosphere encouraged local artisans to sell their goods, showcasing Asheville’s vibrant culture. Upcoming events at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center, including the Asheville Improv Festival and community activities, continue to support local tourism and the economy.
Asheville – Comedian Leanne Morgan attracted large crowds to downtown Asheville, where enthusiasts gathered for her comedy show. Local residents and visitors experienced a lively atmosphere filled with excitement as they looked forward to the performance. Many attendees saw the event as an opportunity to reunite with the charm of Asheville, coupled with the ongoing support for the local economy.
Recent events in downtown Asheville demonstrated a significant influx of tourists, with reports indicating that approximately 50% of ticket sales for Morgan’s shows came from individuals residing more than 150 miles away. This statistic highlights the pull of the comedy scene in the region and its effect on local businesses, from restaurants to hotels. The General Manager of the Harrah’s Cherokee Center emphasized that attracting visitors is a central goal for the venue, benefiting the community as a whole.
Despite challenges like limited parking, the spirit of festivity was undeniable. Local vendors seized the opportunity by setting up a market near the comedy venue. Artisans, such as those from Hudgins Design, showcased their creations, while anticipating that out-of-town visitors would see Asheville as a vibrant hub for art and culture. The lively atmosphere and mix of locals and tourists were reflective of Asheville’s essence as a destination.
Looking ahead, the Harrah’s Cherokee Center has planned events for every weekend next month, broadening the entertainment options available to locals and visitors alike. The ongoing Asheville Improv Festival runs nightly through May 10, offering various comedic performances. Additionally, a stand-up comedy show titled “Mom’s the Word” is scheduled for Saturday, May 10, at the Montford Rooftop Bar, providing another platform for local and visiting comedians. Coinciding with Mother’s Day on the same day, a special sale at Garden Party will feature local vendors showcasing their products.
Community events continue with “Movies in the Park,” screening “Moana 2” at Pack Square Park on May 9, creating a family-friendly outdoor activity. Furthermore, the North Carolina Arboretum will celebrate World Bonsai Day over the weekend of May 10-11, hosting exhibitions and programming provided by the Blue Ridge Bonsai Society. For those looking for unique tasting experiences, Two Trees Distilling offers sustainably aged whiskey samples at their tasting room in Fletcher.
This vibrant community atmosphere extends beyond entertainment, as initiatives like the Grace in Action Fund have been launched to provide long-term assistance to households affected by Hurricane Helene, emphasizing the resilient spirit of Western North Carolina.
With a plethora of ongoing and upcoming community events, including the Asheville Comedy Festival and summertime traditions like Movies in the Park, the city remains a lively and exciting destination for both local residents and visitors seeking recreational and cultural experiences.
FAQ
What events are happening in Asheville next month?
Next month will feature various events at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center and throughout downtown Asheville, including comedy shows, local vendor markets, and celebrations such as World Bonsai Day.
Who is Leanne Morgan?
Leanne Morgan is a popular comedian whose shows attract large audiences, showcasing her unique comedic style that resonates with many fans.”
How can I participate in local events?
Residents and visitors can participate by attending scheduled events, visiting local vendor markets, or joining community activities such as movies in the park or annual festivals.
| Event | Date | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leanne Morgan’s Comedy Show | This past weekend | Harrah’s Cherokee Center | Attracted large crowds, boosting local tourism |
| Asheville Improv Festival | Through May 10 | Various venues | Offers nightly performances |
| Mom’s the Word | May 10 | Montford Rooftop Bar | Stand-up comedy event |
| Mother’s Day Sale | May 10 | Garden Party | Local vendors showcasing products |
| Movies in the Park | May 9 | Pack Square Park | Screening of “Moana 2” |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Stand Up for Asheville – Comedy for a Cause
- What to Do This Weekend in the 828 – May 9-11
- Plan Ahead: Asheville NC Events
- Waldensian Festival & Raleigh Comic Book Show
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina

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.


