September 26, 2025

Asheville Commemorates One Year Since Hurricane Helene

Asheville, September 26, 2025

News Summary

This weekend marks the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene, which impacted Western North Carolina. Events celebrating community resilience include the launch of Sufferin’ Fools’ new EP, free film screenings, and the Asheville Greek Festival. Moreover, local recovery efforts continue as the community reflects on the significant challenges faced since the storm’s departure.

Asheville

This weekend marks the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene, which struck Western North Carolina on September 27, 2024. Various events are scheduled to commemorate the resilience of the community and to reflect on the recovery efforts since the storm.

Highlights of the anniversary events include festivals, performances, and activities centered around the Blue Ridge region. Sufferin’ Fools, an Asheville-based band, will launch their second EP, “Forest for the Trees,” with a live show in Weaverville, NC. Tickets for the event are priced at $10 at the door for ages 21 and over. Additionally, the Manhattan Short Film Festival returns to Pack Memorial Library this Friday, featuring four free screenings of 10 short films from around the world, with the audience determining the awards.

The Montford Park Players continue their 53rd season with a free outdoor performance of Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of King Lear”. Furthermore, the annual Asheville Greek Festival is taking place at the Hellenic Center, offering traditional Greek food options, including chicken and pistachio dishes and pastries. Other activities include a Local Comic Shop Day event at Comic Envy in North Asheville, celebrating brick-and-mortar comic shops, and the 66th Art on Main art show in Hendersonville, featuring over 100 artists and arts nonprofits.

The National Park Service has invited community members to participate in service projects across the Blue Ridge Parkway for National Public Lands Day, which is focused on ecological recovery efforts. Uplifting Deals is also holding a bake sale and raffle to support the local nonprofit BeLoved Asheville, with items donated by local vendors.

The 2025 Blue Ridge Pride Festival is confirmed to return, showcasing music, vendors, and drag performances, marking it as the largest Pride celebration in Asheville. Additionally, the second annual Black Mountain Blues Festival will feature blues music, workshops, and storytelling that emphasizes Appalachian history.

Impact of Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene caused significant destruction, being the deadliest Atlantic hurricane since Maria in 2017 and causing an estimated $78.7 billion in damages. The storm resulted in 107 deaths in North Carolina, with widespread flooding and landslides affecting over 125,000 housing units. The highest recorded rainfall during the hurricane reached 30.78 inches in Busick, NC, leading to historic flooding and debris flows. Additionally, Helene spawned 33 tornadoes in various states, causing significant impacts felt in North Carolina.

The community’s recovery has been ongoing; approximately 1.3 million cubic yards of debris have been cleared, with nearly 500 homes repaired and 30 rebuilds currently in progress since the hurricane struck. Local restaurants and businesses have adapted by downsizing staff and menus while focusing on sustainability post-Hurricane Helene. The Marquee, a significant venue in the arts district, has reopened after damage from Hurricane Helene, now supporting over 500 artists again. Furthermore, BeLoved Asheville has successfully transitioned from immediate disaster relief to long-term support for community members affected by the hurricane.

In conclusion, the anniversary of Hurricane Helene serves as a significant reminder of the community’s resilience and ongoing recovery efforts in the face of tragedy.

FAQs

What is being commemorated this weekend in Asheville?

This weekend marks the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene, which struck Western North Carolina on September 27, 2024.

What events are planned for the anniversary of Hurricane Helene?

Anniversary events include festivals, performances, and Blue Ridge-centric activities such as the launch of an EP by Sufferin’ Fools, the Manhattan Short Film Festival, a free outdoor performance of “King Lear,” and the Asheville Greek Festival.

What was the impact of Hurricane Helene?

Hurricane Helene caused significant destruction, being the deadliest Atlantic hurricane since Maria in 2017, with an estimated $78.7 billion in damages, resulting in 107 deaths in North Carolina.

What ongoing recovery efforts are taking place after Hurricane Helene?

Approximately 1.3 million cubic yards of debris have been cleared, with nearly 500 homes repaired and 30 rebuilds in progress since the hurricane.

Key Features of Hurricane Helene Commemorations

Event	Date	Details
Sufferin’ Fools EP Launch	September 27, 2024	Live show in Weaverville. Tickets $10.
Manhattan Short Film Festival	September 27, 2024	Free screenings at Pack Memorial Library.
Montford Park Players	September 27, 2024	Outdoor performance of King Lear.
Asheville Greek Festival	September 27-29, 2024	Traditional Greek food at Hellenic Center.
Recovery Efforts	Ongoing	1.3 million cubic yards of debris cleared.