News Summary
Buncombe County has allocated $75,000 in grants to support 21 local festivals, including established events like the Asheville Bread Festival and newcomers. This initiative promotes community recovery and sustainability in local arts and culture, with marketing support to maximize attendance. Notable events receiving funds include the Blue Ridge Pride Festival, AVL Beer Week, and the Asheville Fringe Arts Festival, providing a diverse array of experiences for locals and visitors alike.
Buncombe County Lends a Hand to Local Festivals with $75,000 in Grants
Asheville, known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, is gearing up for an exciting season of festivals and events. Thanks to the generosity of the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, a total of $75,000 has been allocated in grants to support 21 local festivals and events. This is a thrilling way to uplift our community as it navigates through recovery efforts.
Supporting Local Traditions and New Adventures
This edition of the grant program puts a spotlight on a mix of established events and newcomers. Notably, the Asheville Bread Festival, which is celebrating its 17th year, has secured $1,500 to help continue its mission of bringing together bread enthusiasts. This event is a proud symbol of the local culinary scene and quite a treat for all attendees!
Launched in 2016, the Festivals & Cultural Events Support Fund aims to ensure the sustainability of local festivities while also promoting community recovery through enhanced tourism. Of the 21 recipients, approximately one-third are hosting inaugural events, showcasing Asheville’s dynamic spirit and welcoming nature.
Competitive Selection Process
A committee meticulously sifted through 34 applications to select which events would benefit from funding. This careful evaluation ensures that only the most deserving and impactful festivals receive this financial boost. Additionally, to maximize attendance and revenue, all grant recipients will receive marketing support from Explore Asheville.
A Feast of Festivals
The list of grant recipients reads like a who’s who of Asheville’s cultural landscape:
- Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Farm Tour: $5,000
- AVL Beer Week: $2,500
- The Big Crafty: $2,500
- Maker Faire Asheville: $1,500
- Black Mountain Art in Bloom: $3,000
- Blue Ridge Pride Festival: $5,000
- Burial Beer Burnpile Harvest Festival: $5,000
- Connect Beyond Festival: $5,000
- Mountain Dance and Folk Festival/Shindig on the Green: $5,000
- Montreat College Coda Music Festival: $1,000
- Punch Bucket Literary Festival Asheville: $2,500
- RADFest: $5,000
- Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands: $2,500
- The Cathedral of All Souls A Dickens Christmas: $2,500
- Juneteenth Celebration: $5,000
- Weaverville’s Music on Main: $5,000
- YMI Cultural Center Goombay: $5,000
Get Ready for the Asheville Fringe Arts Festival
One of the most anticipated events this spring is the Asheville Fringe Arts Festival, which runs from March 16 to March 23. This year, the festival benefits from grants that allow for higher pay for its hard-working behind-the-scenes staff and talented performers. Attendees can look forward to an array of unique performances, including a puppet show and even a sci-fi opera! With both ticketed and free events, there’s something for everyone.
Weather Watch
As folks prepare to enjoy these festivities, they should keep an eye on the weather. Recent reports indicate blustery winds and the potential for snow showers, with temperatures dropping close to 30°F. With winds from the Northwest expected to reach 20-30 mph and gusts over 40 mph, dressing warmly will be essential for those heading out!
So mark those calendars, Asheville! This is your chance to enjoy the rich tapestry of culture, creativity, and community spirit that makes our city so special.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Spring Equinox Celebrations Kick Off in Asheville
Asheville Recovers and Welcomes Visitors Back with Culture
Asheville Recognized as a Top Travel Destination for 2025
February Events to Experience in Asheville
Asheville Struggles with Hurricane Helene Aftermath
Henderson County Launches Tree Recycling Program
Additional Resources
- Asheville Fringe Arts Festival
- Wikipedia: Festival
- Bele Chere Festival
- Google Search: Asheville festivals
- Asheville Chow Chow Festival
- Google Scholar: Asheville cultural events
- New Summer Festivals in Asheville
- Google News: Asheville events
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.
