Asheville, August 16, 2025
News Summary
Asheville will host Bodhi Fest, a vibrant Buddhist arts festival, on August 16. Attendees can enjoy workshops, performances, and local arts, all centered on themes of peace and reflection. The event promises inclusivity for all community members and coincides with the Asheville Film Festival, contributing to a bustling cultural weekend.
Asheville to Host Bodhi Fest This Weekend
The vibrant city of Asheville will welcome Bodhi Fest, a Buddhist arts festival set to take place on Saturday, August 16, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Asheville Community Theatre, located at 35 E. Walnut St. Attendees can secure their tickets via the theatre’s official website, ensuring access to a day filled with artistic expression centered around Buddhist themes.
Bodhi Fest promises a diverse lineup of activities including workshops and performances that explore dance, music, and film. This event is hosted by Heartwood Refuge, a Buddhist sangha based in Hendersonville, North Carolina, known for its commitment to fostering community and spiritual growth.
One of the highlights of Bodhi Fest will be its focus on inspiring peace and reflection through various art forms. The festival aims to convey that peaceful paths can arise in every moment of life, even when faced with emotions such as grief, fear, and anger. Heartwood Refuge emphasizes that the teachings of Buddha Dharma can be appreciated through everyday experiences, rather than strictly through doctrinal practices.
Festival Details
All community members are encouraged to attend, as Bodhi Fest is designed to be inclusive and welcoming to everyone, regardless of their cultural or religious background. In addition to workshops, attendees will find an array of crafts, art, and food provided by local vendors and Buddhist artists throughout the festival.
The event will also showcase live music performances by local acts including DharmaVoci and BlissHippy along with dance performances and various creative workshops. There will be an additional fee of $20 required for specialized workshops in songwriting and dance, providing hands-on experiences for attendees.
Local Context and Additional Events
Coinciding with Bodhi Fest, Asheville will host the inaugural Asheville Film Festival from August 15-17. This festival will showcase over 30 films from local, regional, and national filmmakers, culminating in an awards gala on Saturday night. The timing of both festivals contributes to a vibrant cultural weekend in the Asheville area.
In recent community news, the Asheville Police Department has made arrests related to incidents in the area, highlighting ongoing efforts to maintain safety amid the festival festivities. For those looking to explore the ample options available this weekend, a local events guide covering activities such as film festivals, bluegrass events, and markets is available for residents and visitors.
Bodhi Fest stands out as one of the many diverse cultural offerings available this weekend in Asheville, enriching the local landscape with its artistic and spiritual contributions.
FAQ
What is Bodhi Fest?
Bodhi Fest is a Buddhist arts festival featuring workshops and performances centered on dance, music, and film. It aims to inspire peace and reflection through art.
When and where is Bodhi Fest taking place?
The festival will take place on August 16, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Asheville Community Theatre, located at 35 E. Walnut St., Asheville.
How can I purchase tickets for Bodhi Fest?
Tickets for the festival can be purchased online at the Asheville Community Theatre’s website.
Are there any additional costs for workshops?
Yes, there is an additional cost of $20 for participation in the songwriting and dance workshops.
Is Bodhi Fest suitable for everyone?
Yes, Bodhi Fest is designed to be inclusive and welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, both Buddhist and non-Buddhist.
Key Features of Bodhi Fest
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Bodhi Fest |
| Date | August 16, 2023 |
| Location | Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E. Walnut St., Asheville |
| Time | 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. |
| Ticket Purchase | www.ashevilletheatre.org |
| Workshops | Dance, Music, Crafts (additional $20 for songwriting and dance) |
| Performances | Live Music by DharmaVoci and BlissHippy |
| Inclusivity | Welcoming everyone regardless of background |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- 828 News: Buddhist Arts Festival in Asheville
- Wikipedia: Buddhism
- Mountain X: Smart Bets for Bodhi Fest
- Google Search: Bodhi Fest Asheville
- 828 News: Asheville Film Festival
- Wikipedia: Film Festival
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.
