Asheville, N.C., July 31, 2025
News Summary
The city of Asheville, in partnership with The Radical hotel, is hosting the 2025 Summer Social to rejuvenate the River Arts District. Scheduled for August 4, the event will feature gallery tours, live music, and dining discounts, while welcoming community engagement to support local artists impacted by Hurricane Helene. Attendees can look forward to mobile art experiences and opportunities to explore local talent. The event aims not only to celebrate artistic renewal but also to offer crucial support for the area’s recovery efforts.
Asheville Announces 2025 Summer Social to Support River Arts District Recovery
Asheville, N.C. – A collaborative effort between Explore Asheville and The Radical hotel will kick off a revitalization initiative for the River Arts District through an event known as the 2025 Summer Social. This event is set to take place on Monday, August 4, from 3–6 p.m. at The Radical, located at 95 Roberts St, Asheville. The Summer Social aims to celebrate the renewal of the River Arts District while inviting community members and visitors to engage in a fun and artistic atmosphere.
The event promises a rich multimedia experience featuring gallery tours, live music, dining discounts, and the presence of mobile artists. Individual activities scheduled throughout the afternoon include a tour of the newly established RAD Rendezvous, an art gallery created by the owners of The Radical in collaboration with Phil Mechanic Studios. This gallery, capable of showcasing up to 40 artists and two retailers, marks an important step toward revitalizing the area.
Artist move-in is set to begin on Friday, August 1. Enthusiasts can also enjoy the musical talents of Asheville-based DJ Lil Meow Meow, who will provide beats from 3-5 p.m. at Golden Hour and from 5-6 p.m. at The Roof at The Radical. Additionally, the North Carolina Glass Center will feature a mobile glass blowing unit, alongside performances by sketch artist Mitch Capp, known as the “Dollar Doodle Dude,” and Sauna House, an Asheville sauna and bathhouse.
The event will conclude with the RAD Dine Out, allowing attendees to enjoy discounts with a 10% coupon at Master BBQ at RAD Brewing, Golden Hour at The Radical, and Blue Cardinal at New Belgium.
Background on River Arts District Recovery
The River Arts District has faced significant challenges since Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding that displaced numerous artists and businesses. Before the hurricane struck, this vibrant district was home to approximately 750 local artists; however, numbers have plummeted to around 350 in the aftermath of the disaster. To support those affected by the hurricane, an online fundraising campaign is currently underway, providing much-needed aid to restore the community’s creative spirit.
For further information and to RSVP for the 2025 Summer Social, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the event website.
Summary of Key Features of the 2025 Summer Social
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 2025 Summer Social |
| Date & Time | Monday, August 4, from 3–6 p.m. |
| Location | The Radical, 95 Roberts St, Asheville, N.C. |
| Main Activities | Gallery tours, live music, dining discounts, mobile artists |
| Featured Artists | Various, including DJ Lil Meow Meow, Mitch Capp, North Carolina Glass Center |
| RAD Dine Out | 10% coupon at selected restaurants |
| Background | Post-Hurricane Helene recovery efforts and support for artists |
FAQs
What is the 2025 Summer Social?
The 2025 Summer Social is an event designed to celebrate and revitalize the River Arts District in Asheville, featuring gallery tours, live music, and dining discounts.
When is the event taking place?
The event will occur on Monday, August 4, from 3–6 p.m.
Where will the event be held?
The Summer Social will take place at The Radical, located at 95 Roberts St, Asheville, N.C.
How can I participate in RAD Dine Out?
Attendees will receive a 10% coupon applicable at various restaurants participating in the RAD Dine Out.
What support is available for artists affected by Hurricane Helene?
An online fundraising campaign is currently running to support artists and businesses impacted by the flooding from Hurricane Helene.
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Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: The Radical and Explore Asheville Plan Summer Social Event for RAD
- WJHL: Destination Vacation – Asheville’s River Arts District
- WLOS: Carolina Moment – Wooden Hearts Spread Messages of Hope
- ABC11: Asheville’s River Arts District Breweries and Restaurants Undeterred
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
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.
