September 25, 2025

Asheville Area Commemorates Anniversary of Tropical Storm Helene

Asheville, NC, September 25, 2025

News Summary

Communities in Asheville and Western North Carolina are coming together to honor the anniversary of Tropical Storm Helene, which caused significant devastation in the region. A range of events are planned from September through November, including symposiums, art exhibits, and community meals to commemorate those affected by the storm. These celebrations aim to highlight resilience and unity among residents while reflecting on the impact of the storm.

Asheville Area Commemorates One Year Anniversary of Tropical Storm Helene with Community Events

Communities across Western North Carolina are coming together to commemorate the first anniversary of Tropical Storm Helene, which struck the Asheville area on September 27, 2024, causing catastrophic flooding and damage. The storm was devastating, resulting in dozens of lives lost and thousands of residents displaced. To honor those affected and celebrate community resilience, a series of events are scheduled from September through November.

The anniversary activities aim to recognize the courage and compassion shown by the community in the face of adversity. Haywood County Manager Bryant Morehead emphasized that these gatherings are a chance for the community to unite and reflect on their collective experiences.

Key Events Leading Up to the Anniversary

UNC Asheville Post-Helene Symposium: This symposium will feature panels, concerts, and interactive events from September 24 to 26 and is free and open to the public.
A Tale of Two Cities: 20 Years After Katrina & 1 Year After Helene: Taking place at Ferguson Family YMCA in Candler until September 30.
Healing HeArts Festival: Scheduled for September 24 to 25 at White Horse Black Mountain in Black Mountain.
Looking Back To Move Forward: An art exhibit showcasing works from the UNC Asheville’s Department of Art from September 24 to October 5.
Our Changing World: An exhibit at the Asheville Museum of Science from September 24 to April 30.
Autumn Leaves – Group Exhibit: Featured at Trackside Studios from September 24 to October 31.
Out of Chaos, Community: An event that will take place at Warren Wilson College from September 24 to 25.
Free Grocery Distribution: Offered by MANNA Food Bank on September 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher.
Heroes of Helene: An event at Highland Brewing Company on September 25 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Continuing Commemoration Activities

A benefit event titled From Helene to Here will support Root Cause Farm on September 25 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cultivated Cocktails Distillery & Tavern. Warren Wilson College will also host Building Resilience through Community Partnerships on September 25 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

On September 26, several events are planned, including a Glen Bridge River Park River Blessing, Primal Scream Club, and Church Street Collaborative Service. The Photos From Helene project will showcase collected photos that were lost in the storm on September 26 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Furthermore, a Remembering Helene ceremony will include a community dinner and ritual from 5:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., alongside a concert titled Stronger Together: A Hurricane Helene Anniversary Fundraiser and other related events.

Final Commemoration Day

Various remembrance ceremonies, community meals, and gatherings will take place throughout the Asheville area on September 27.

Additional Efforts

In a show of solidarity, local artists have collaborated to create a benefit album titled After the Flood, which features 16 tracks reflecting on Tropical Storm Helene. The proceeds from this album will support artists impacted by the storm.

The series of events planned not only serve to remember those affected by Tropical Storm Helene but also aim to strengthen community bonds and inspire resilience among the residents of Western North Carolina.

FAQ

What events are scheduled to commemorate the anniversary of Tropical Storm Helene?

Communities across Western North Carolina are organizing ceremonies, concerts, art exhibits, and gatherings to mark the first anniversary of Tropical Storm Helene.

When did Tropical Storm Helene strike the Asheville area?

Tropical Storm Helene struck the Asheville area on September 27, 2024, causing catastrophic flooding and damage.

What are some highlights of the events planned for September 25?

On September 25, events include a free grocery distribution by MANNA Food Bank, a Heroes of Helene event at Highland Brewing Company, and a benefit event supporting Root Cause Farm.

Key Features of the Commemoration Events

Date	Event	Location	Description
September 24-26	UNC Asheville Post-Helene Symposium	UNC Asheville	Panels, concerts, and interactive events; free and open to the public.
September 25	Free Grocery Distribution	WNC Agricultural Center, Fletcher	Provided by MANNA Food Bank from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
September 25	Heroes of Helene	Highland Brewing Company	Event from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
September 27	Various Remembrance Ceremonies	Across Asheville area	Celebrations to remember and honor those affected by Storm Helene.