News Summary
North Carolina’s summer festival season is making a vibrant comeback, inviting residents and visitors to engage in community events and reconnect with traditions. Kicking off with the Shindig on the Green in Asheville, these festivities celebrate local culture, arts, and community ties. This year’s events hold special significance as communities continue to heal from the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene. A robust lineup of festivals throughout the summer promises enjoyment for all ages, showcasing a rich cultural heritage and fostering unity among diverse community members.
Asheville, North Carolina – A host of summertime festivals are making a vibrant return across North Carolina, promising residents and visitors a chance to reconnect with cherished traditions and engage in community festivities. The popular Shindig on the Green at Pack Square Park kicks off weekly on July 5, running until August 23. Events start “right about sundown,” encouraging attendees to bring their chairs for an enjoyable evening.
These festivals serve as a vital part of the summer season in North Carolina, reinforcing community ties and drawing crowds eager to celebrate local culture, arts, and seasonal activities. This year’s festivities hold added significance following the recovery from damages caused by Tropical Storm Helene in 2024, which left several areas in need of rejuvenation.
Upcoming Events and Festivities
The festival season kicked off in June with various events scheduled throughout the month:
- June 19, 5-8 p.m.: YMI Cultural Center in Asheville will host music, dancing, food trucks, art activities, and community tours.
- June 19, 7 p.m.: A worship service at Lake Junaluska’s Stuart Auditorium.
- June 21, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.: Celebration at Lake Junaluska’s Nanci Weldon open-air gym.
- June 19, 6-8 p.m.: Mary C. Jenkins Community and Cultural Center in Brevard will feature guest speaker Dr. Donnie Garris, offering light food, a Juneteenth movie, and various performances.
- June 21, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.: Silversteen Memorial Playground in Brevard, complete with live music, food, arts and crafts, and games.
- June 22, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Combined church services at Silversteen Memorial Playground.
- June 19-22: Downtown Marion will celebrate African American culture with diverse vendors and food trucks.
- June 19, 6-9 p.m.: East McDowell Junior High in Marion will showcase performances, speeches, and community recognitions (entry fee $5).
- June 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.: Fellowship at Marion Community Building featuring food, games, and discussions about Juneteenth.
- June 20-21: Bakersville will host the Rhododendron Festival, featuring a pageant, craft fair, food vendors, children’s activities, and live music.
- June 27-29: Maggie Valley Festival Grounds will present concerts, bike games, and scenic rides.
- June 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.: Allison-Deaver House in Pisgah Forest will offer live music, crafts, children’s activities, and guided house tours.
- June 28, 6:30-9:30 p.m.: Etowah Baptist Church will feature food trucks and music, culminating in a fireworks show.
- June 30-Aug. 2: Weekly performances at Warren Wilson College starting at 7:30 p.m. from folk music instructors.
- July 5-6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: A juried artist exhibition at Historic Banner Elk School.
- July 12-13, Noon-6 p.m.: Harrah’s Cherokee Center-Asheville, featuring hundreds of artists and vendors with free admission on July 13.
- July 17-20, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Showcasing artwork with live demonstrations at Harrah’s Cherokee Center (admission $12, free for ages 12 and under).
- July 31-Aug. 2, 7-10 p.m.: Old-time and bluegrass music at Asheville High School.
- Aug. 9-10, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.: Downtown Black Mountain celebrates artisan crafts and food vendors with a focus on sourwood honey.
- Aug. 15, 5-10 p.m.: Live music at Pack Square Park featuring Mustache the Band.
- Aug. 23, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Family-friendly activities in Downtown Marion themed around local Bigfoot lore.
- Aug. 29-31: Pack Square Park will host musical performances and community events with free admission upon RSVP.
A Focal Point for Community
These festivals come at a pivotal time as communities aim to heal and reconnect after the challenges faced in recent years. Local traditions celebrated through music, dance, food, and art not only bring joy and entertainment but also foster a sense of belonging and unity among diverse community members. Summertime festivals in North Carolina symbolize a return to cherished communal experiences that celebrate the state’s rich cultural heritage.
Residents and visitors alike are invited to partake in the forthcoming festivities to enjoy what summer in North Carolina has to offer.
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Additional Resources
- Cardinal Alpine: Summer Festivals in Asheville and Western North Carolina
- Star News Online: Summer Festivals in Wilmington, NC
- Spectrum Local News: Charlotte Music Festival
- MyFox8: North Carolina Folk Festival 2025
- Wikipedia: Festival
