The Best Summer Events in Asheville
Biltmore Gardens Railway – Friday, May 24 – Sunday, September 29
Enjoy meticulously handcrafted botanical model train displays in the Conservatory and Antler Hill Village & Winery. The displays feature a variety of Biltmore area structures made from natural elements. This is a one-of-a-kind garden experience with 800 feet of rails and trains with six separate lines.
Shakespeare in the Park – every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7:30PM
Experience North Carolina’s longest running Shakespeare Festival at Hazel Robinson Amphitheater. Short walk within the historic Montford neighborhood. Free to attend with great classics all summer long.
June 28 – July 27 : Robin Hood: Quest for Justice
August 2-24 : Romeo and Juliet
August 30 – September 14 : Winter’s Tale
Drum Circle – every Friday, 5-10PM
Experience the Asheville tradition of the Drum Circle. Every Friday night people get together in Pritchard Park to play drums, dance to the beat or sit and enjoy the good vibes of our unique city.
The Drum Circle is a tradition that began in Asheville in 200. It brings together hundreds of people outside during the warm weather months.
All are welcome to bring their own drum and join the music. Drummers begin showing up in the early evening (between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.). They continue with brief breaks until about 10 p.m.
Shindig on the Green – every Saturday July 6 – August 31, 7-10PM
Shindig on the Green features a stage show and informal jam sessions around Pack Square Park. Locals and visitors alike come together downtown to experience the music and dance traditions of Southern Appalachia.
23rd Annual Biltmore Concert Series – various dates in July and August
Concerts are staged on the South Terrace of Biltmore House with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. All shows start at 7:30 p.m.
July 25 The Beach Boys
July 26 The B-52s
Aug. 3 The Charlie Daniels Band and The Marshall Tucker Band
Aug. 6 Chicago
Aug. 9 The O’Jays and Kool & The Gang
Aug. 10 Amy Grant and Steven Curtis Chapman
Riverfest – Saturday, July 20, 1-8PM
Enjoy live music, local beer, food and the Anything that Floats Parade on the banks of one of the oldest rivers in the world. RiverFest serves as a fundraiser for RiverLink. The proceeds from the event goes to support ground work throughout the watershed. This free event is at New Belgium Brewing.
South Highlands Craft Fair – Thursday, July 18 – Sunday, July 21, 10AM – 6PM
In its 72nd year, the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands returns to downtown Asheville’s U.S. Cellular Center. Filling both the concourse and arena levels of the venue, makers exhibit a variety of craft ranging from contemporary to traditional in works of clay, wood, metal, glass, fiber, natural materials, paper, leather, mixed media, and jewelry. General admission $10 per person.
6th Annual Asheville Yoga Festival – Friday, July 25 – Sunday, July 28
Set in the heart of the ancient and mystical Appalachian Mountains, the vision of Asheville Yoga Festival is to create a space for connection, adventure, play, relaxation and healing.
Downtown Asheville will be the retro-urban backdrop for the 2019 festival. It will feature over 40 world-class presenters & musicians, and 90+ offerings including yoga, music and outdoor activities. In between classes you will have time to stroll through our beautiful outdoor Mountain Air Market, home to variety of unique health & wellness vendors and tasty treats.
Hi-Wire Brewing 6th Annivesary Party – Saturday, July 27, 3-10PM
Celebrate Hi-Wire’s 6th Birthday at the Big Top. This years line-up of live music will feature Natural Born Leaders, Free The Optimus & Mike Live, and April B & the Cool. Cold beer will be flowing including Hi-Wire Brewing year-rounds, seasonals and an exclusive 10-tap Sour & Wild Ale beer station. Carnival attractions will include a ferris wheel, carousel, and water gun race station. There is a $5 advanced/$8 day of admission for all guests 21+.
Mountain Dance and Folk Festival – Friday, August 1 – Sunday, August 3, 6:30PM
The 92nd Annual Mountain Dance and Folk Festival showcases traditional and old time musicians, mountain dance groups and cloggers. Net proceeds from this event are dedicated to partial support for the eight Shindig on the Green evenings presented through the summer. The non-profit, all-volunteer Folk Heritage Committee’s mission is to preserve and present the musical heritage of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. General admission single-night tickets are $25 at the door or $20 in advance.
The Beer Days of Summer at The Lion and the Rose
Guests staying at The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast on Beer Days will enjoy a complimentary beer hour. Join us on the front porch and try a pint of Steve’s seasonal home brew. The Beer Days of Summer are: July 15, August 4, August 22 and August 25.
