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Asheville Anticipates Record Travel This Memorial Day Weekend

Vehicles on a busy road in Asheville during Memorial Day weekend

News Summary

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, 45.1 million Americans are predicted to travel at least 50 miles from home. Asheville, NC, is experiencing lower gas prices at $2.82, contributing to the travel surge. Local businesses are preparing for increased customer volumes as families plan to spend time together. Traffic congestion is expected, and various ceremonies honoring veterans will take place across Western North Carolina. Weather forecasts indicate sunny conditions to start, transitioning to rain mid-weekend. NASCAR drivers also honor veterans with a special event in Asheville.

Asheville Reports High Travel Forecast and Lower Gas Prices for Memorial Day Weekend

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, travel is expected to soar with 45.1 million Americans predicted to travel at least 50 miles from home. This number marks an increase of 1.4 million compared to last year and sets a new record for travel during the holiday period from May 22 to May 26. In Asheville, North Carolina, gas prices currently sit at $2.82, significantly lower than the $3.35 reported a year ago and below the state average of $3.36 for 2024.

These lower gas prices are likely contributing to the expected surge in travelers. As of May 23, the average gas price in North Carolina is reported at $2.88, making road travel more appealing for many families looking to spend time together over the holiday weekend.

Local Impact and Preparations

With the anticipated influx of travelers, local businesses are preparing for higher customer volumes. For example, Lou, a chef at Mr. Sushi in Asheville, is optimistic about increased business stemming from the holiday travelers. Residents and business owners alike anticipate a busy weekend as many Americans opt to gather with loved ones, even if it includes shorter-distance trips.

Traffic and Travel Tips

Travelers are advised to prepare for potential traffic congestion as roads become busy with vacationers. Local resident Kristea Cancel suggests packing patience for those hitting the roads during this peak travel period. Many in Asheville, including Cancel, plan to celebrate a more home-oriented Memorial Day by spending time with family and possibly ordering takeout.

Events Honoring Veterans

This year’s Memorial Day falls on May 26, a day rooted in history that originated in the 1860s as Decoration Day to honor those who died in the Civil War. The name changed to Memorial Day following World War I, and it has been celebrated as a federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May ever since.

Across Western North Carolina, multiple ceremonies will be held to honor veterans. Notably, the McDowell County Memorial Day Service will take place on May 25, starting at 2 PM at the McDowell County Senior Center, featuring veteran and founder of Blue Ridge Honor Flight as the featured speaker. The Buncombe County Memorial Day Ceremony is scheduled for 10 AM at the Western North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, where speakers will represent various military services. Other ceremonies include an event in Henderson County at 11 AM at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, where veterans will be escorted by classic cars, and a service starting at 9 AM at the Lake Lure Veterans Memorial in Rutherford County. Transylvania County will commemorate the day with a Day of Remembrance ceremony at 11 AM at the Transylvania County Courthouse.

Weather Forecast

The weather for the Memorial Day weekend starts off sunny but will transition to rain mid-way through the holiday. High temperatures are expected around 70 degrees on Friday, with Saturday remaining partly to mostly cloudy. By Sunday, showers are forecasted, potentially lingering into Memorial Day, with total rainfall expected to reach about a fourth of an inch by Monday morning and up to an inch over the course of five days in Western North Carolina.

NASCAR Connects with Veterans

In a related event, NASCAR drivers Jimmie Johnson and Erik Jones recently visited Asheville to honor veterans and unveil a special race car ahead of the Coca-Cola 600. Johnson emphasized the significance of recognizing veterans during the Memorial Day weekend and announced that the name of a fallen soldier will be displayed on their race car.

As the weekend approaches, communities prepare to welcome travelers and pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in service, making this Memorial Day a time of remembrance and togetherness for many.