Our corner of the Southeast has become a cultural enclave, preserving the mountain folk culture while encouraging artistic expressions of all kinds. The Asheville Community Arts Council, one of the first arts councils in the country, has been instrumental in seeking funds for and broadening the base of arts in the community. The cultural opportunities are abundant and varied, ranging from The Asheville Symphony, traditional mountain music and dancing, arts and crafts, professional theater productions, first-run feature films, and a foreign film series.

     
Asheville is internationally recognized for its contributions to the American craft - both historic and modern-day - and expanded efforts to nurture this natural resource ensure the preservation of an irreplaceable heritage. That commitment is kept alive by special events like the annual Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, numerous craft fairs sponsored by the Southern Highland Craft Guild, and the establishment of the Folk Art Center.

The Asheville Community Theater and the Diana Wortham Theater spotlight extraordinary local talent as well as the out-of-the-ordinary traveling groups.  Pack Place is home to four outstanding museums - Asheville Art Museum, The Health Adventure, Colburn Gem and Mineral Museum and YMI Cultural Center - Pack Place offers programs and exhibitions for school children and adults.

Downtown is always alive with local festivals. Bele Chere, an arts and entertainment celebration, draws thousands to the area each July. Community celebrations like Light Up Your Holidays, Goombay, Riverfest, Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, Shindig-on-the-Green and Kituway provide additional festivities throughout the year.

There is so much to do and see in our area.
For a complete list of local attractions in WNC, CLICK HERE.