Asheville, July 27, 2025
News Summary
Asheville will welcome the North Carolina Awards on November 13, 2023, celebrating the state’s outstanding achievements in various fields. The event aims to promote tourism and aid economic recovery in Western North Carolina, which is facing challenges post-Tropical Storm Helene. The ceremony will be held at the Grove Park Inn, with ticket proceeds benefiting local communities affected by the storm.
Asheville will host the prestigious North Carolina Awards on November 13, 2023, as announced by Governor Josh Stein’s office on July 24. This year marks the 62nd ceremony for the awards, which recognize outstanding achievements by North Carolinians in literature, science, fine arts, and public service.
The awards ceremony is part of an initiative to promote tourism and bolster economic recovery in Western North Carolina. The region is currently facing uneven recovery following the impact of Tropical Storm Helene, which resulted in increased unemployment and challenges for local businesses. Governor Stein has made several visits to the area, emphasizing the importance of supporting local residents and businesses affected by the storm.
The ceremony will take place at the Grove Park Inn and aims to not only celebrate the achievements of distinguished North Carolinians but also to encourage tourism that can help the local economy bounce back. Tickets for the event will be available for purchase soon, and net proceeds from ticket sales will be directed to a fund designated for communities recovering from the storm.
This tourism campaign, entitled “Rediscover the Unforgettable,” was launched by Stein on July 15, 2023, following its initial announcement in June at the reopening of Chimney Rock State Park. The campaign highlights the beauty of Western North Carolina and aims to draw visitors to the area, fostering a boost in local businesses and tourism services.
The North Carolina Awards were established in 1961 by the General Assembly and have honored many iconic figures throughout the years. Notable past recipients include celebrated individuals such as William Friday, James Taylor, Etta Baker, Maya Angelou, Lee Smith, Eric Church, Selma Burke, and Branford Marsalis, representing a rich legacy of achievement across a variety of fields.
Governor Stein’s office expressed pride in showcasing the unique offerings of Asheville and surrounding areas, highlighting the role that culture and community play in stimulating economic recovery. The emphasis on tourism is seen not only as a way to honor award recipients but also as an essential strategy for revitalizing the local economy that has been strained by recent natural disasters.
As the date approaches, community leaders and residents of Western North Carolina are hopeful that the event will not only honor outstanding achievements but also serve as a significant catalyst for economic growth and recovery in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the North Carolina Awards ceremony take place?
The awards ceremony is scheduled for November 13, 2023.
Where will the event be held?
The ceremony will be held at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville.
How can I obtain tickets for the ceremony?
Tickets will be available for purchase soon, with net proceeds benefiting recovery efforts for communities affected by Tropical Storm Helene.
What are the North Carolina Awards?
Established in 1961, the North Carolina Awards recognize notable achievements by individuals in the state across various fields including literature, science, fine arts, and public service.
Who are some notable past recipients of the North Carolina Awards?
Past recipients include prominent figures such as Maya Angelou, James Taylor, and Eric Church, among others.
| Award Name | Established | Significance | Notable Recipients |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina Awards | 1961 | The state’s highest civilian honor | Maya Angelou, James Taylor, Etta Baker, Eric Church |
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Additional Resources
- Blue Ridge Now: North Carolina Awards Announcement
- WXII 12: James Beard Award Finalist
- WLOS: Open Hearts Art Center Award
- Wikipedia: North Carolina Awards
- News Observer: Food and Drink
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.
