Asheville, NC, August 1, 2025
News Summary
The Asheville area is set for a vibrant weekend filled with diverse activities including the 69th Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair, a comedy festival, and a guided snorkeling experience. Events from August 1 to August 4 include the return of the NC Mineral and Gem Festival and the 98th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, making for an engaging experience for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, local ice cream shops will observe National Friendship Day with $1 treats, adding a sweet touch to the festivities.
Asheville Weekend Events: Arts, Music, and Water Activities
The Asheville area is gearing up for an exciting weekend filled with diverse events, including handcrafted art fairs, water activities, comedy shows, and folk festivals. From August 1 to August 4, the city will host various events appealing to all ages and interests.
Highlighting the weekend is the 69th annual Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair, which will take place over two days in the town square. This fair will feature local artists showcasing their unique handcrafted creations, accompanied by a vibrant atmosphere filled with food and music.
In Burnsville, just a short drive from Asheville, attendees can explore the Grassy Creek Gem & Mineral Show. Celebrating the area’s mining heritage and enhancing community recovery after Hurricane Helene, this event invites over 60 vendors to sell gems, minerals, fossils, jewelry, and lapidary supplies.
The NC Mineral and Gem Festival, now in its 66th year, will also include mine tours and showcases of extraordinary jewelry, gems, and minerals, making it a must-visit for gem enthusiasts.
For those seeking adventure, a guided snorkeling experience will take place at the headwaters of the French Broad River in Champion Park, Rosman, NC. This event will be led by staff from MountainTrue, alongside biologist Kevin Merrill. Snorkeling tickets are priced between $22.50 and $25.00, with rental equipment available for an additional fee.
The laughter continues with a comedy festival featuring performances from well-known headliners such as Ben Bailey, Jessica Michelle Singleton, and Eleanore Kerrigan. Tickets for the comedy festival range from $23.50 to $28.50.
Additionally, the final night of the 98th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival will occur at Asheville High School, featuring over 15 artists performing bluegrass tunes, mountain clogging, and old-time string music. Adult tickets are available for $20, while tickets for students and children aged 6-12 cost just $5.
For theater fans, “Improvised Star Trek” will present a comedic play inspired by Star Trek: The Next Generation, with ticket prices ranging from $9.00 to $18.00.
On Sunday, August 4, The Hop ice cream shops will celebrate National Friendship Day by offering $1 sundaes, banana splits, Brownie Delights, and Cookie Supremes, giving sweet treats to friends and families alike.
An exciting addition to this weekend’s events is the grand opening of Period Nirvana, a menstrual product store and museum, happening from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Friday, August 1, at 315 Haywood Road.
Additionally, the oldest continuous folk festival in the United States will return to celebrate Southern Appalachian clogging, storytelling, and bluegrass music.
In political news, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders is scheduled to speak in downtown Asheville on Sunday, August 10, garnering local interest and engagement in the political landscape.
Lastly, the 2025 Summer Social event will take place from 3–6 p.m. on Monday, August 4, focusing on revitalizing the River Arts District. This event will feature gallery tours, live music, art demonstrations, and include the participation of DJ Lil Meow Meow, the North Carolina Glass Center mobile unit, and sketch artist Mitch Capp. Attendees can also enjoy dining discounts at local restaurants.
Summary of Weekend Events
| Event | Date | Location | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair | August 1-2 | Town Square | N/A |
| Grassy Creek Gem & Mineral Show | August 1-2 | Burnsville | N/A |
| Comedy Festival | August 2 | Asheville | $23.50 – $28.50 |
| 98th Mountain Dance & Folk Festival | August 3 | Asheville High School | $20 (adults), $5 (children) |
| Guided Snorkeling | August 4 | Champion Park, Rosman | $22.50 – $25.00 |
| National Friendship Day (Ice Cream) | August 4 | The Hop Ice Cream Locations | $1 treats |
FAQ
What are the key highlights of the weekend events in Asheville?
The weekend features the Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair, Grassy Creek Gem & Mineral Show, 98th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, guided snorkeling event, and a comedy festival among other activities.
Where can I find tickets for the events?
Tickets can be purchased online or at the event locations, with prices varying based on the event type.
Are there any special promotions during the events?
Yes, The Hop ice cream shops will offer $1 specials for National Friendship Day on Sunday, August 4.
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Additional Resources
- The Radical and Explore Asheville Plan Summer Social Event
- Asheville to Host Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Event
- UNC Asheville Athletics Prepares for 24 Hours of Nothing But Net
- Asheville Celebrates 4/20 with Hemp Events and Infused Foods
- 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.
