Summer Outdoor Entertainment in the Mountains!

WNC --  As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, Western North Carolina comes alive with a spectacular array of outdoor events. From vibrant music festivals to unique cultural celebrations and family-friendly gatherings, the summer of 2025 promises endless entertainment for locals and visitors alike.

 Get ready to mark your calendars and experience the best of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

June: Kicking Off the Summer Fun

June sets a high bar for outdoor festivities. Music lovers won't want to miss the Cherokee Bluegrass Festival (June 5-7 at Happy Holiday RV Village), offering three days of foot-tapping tunes from over 35 bands. If you're a fan of unique vehicles, the WNC Jeep Fest (June 6-7 at Maggie Valley Festival Grounds) promises a thrilling weekend with guided trail rides, a show & shine, and plenty of vendors.

For those who appreciate craftsmanship and nature, the Blue Ridge Fiber Fest (June 6-7) and the Riverside Artisan Market (June 14 at Nantahala Outdoor Center) offer opportunities to explore local artistry. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Trail Days (June 5-8 in Elkin and Jonesville) celebrates our region's incredible trails, and the Trails and Trains Festival in Old Fort (June 5-7) delves into local history. Cap off the month with the Thunder in the Smokies Summer Motorcycle Rally (June 27-29) for some high-octane excitement!

July: Celebrating Culture and Creativity

July continues the summer sizzle with beloved traditions and artistic showcases. The iconic Shindig on the Green returns to Downtown Asheville's Pack Square Park (Saturdays, July 5, 12, 19, 26, and into August), offering free evenings of traditional mountain bluegrass music and dance. Independence Day will be celebrated with patriotic fervor at the July 4th Parade & Celebration and Fireworks In the Park in Franklin, both on July 4th.

Art enthusiasts will flock to The Big Crafty (July 12-13 at Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville), featuring hundreds of talented artists. Soon after, the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands (July 17-20), also in Downtown Asheville, provides another chance to witness live demonstrations and purchase unique handcrafted goods. Don't miss Coon Dog Day Festival in Saluda (July 12) for a truly unique local experience, and witness the magic of street art at Chalk it Up! on Main Street in Downtown Hendersonville (July 12).

August: Embracing Appalachian Heritage and Harvests

As summer begins its gentle wane, August brings a focus on Appalachian heritage and the bounty of the land. The Mountain Dance and Folk Festival (July 31, August 1-2) is a must-see, preserving regional traditions through music, dance, and storytelling. Nature lovers of all ages can become a Junior Naturalist for a day at Grandfather Mountain (August 9), with activities designed to connect children with the natural world.

Capping off the summer, the much-anticipated North Carolina Apple Festival (August 29 - September 1 on Main Street in Downtown Hendersonville) celebrates our rich apple-growing heritage. This multi-day event promises a vibrant street fair, live music, arts and crafts, and a grand parade. Also, look for the NC Mineral & Gem Festival (various dates in August) to explore our region's geological treasures.

From lively music festivals to cultural celebrations and family-friendly adventures, Western North Carolina's outdoor entertainment scene offers something for everyone this summer. Get out there and enjoy all that our beautiful mountains have to offer!

Please Note: While we strive to provide accurate information, event dates, times, and details can sometimes change. We highly recommend checking official event websites or contacting organizers directly to confirm details before making your plans. Enjoy your summer in Western NC!

WNCTimes