Your Guide to Memorial Day Weekend in Western NC

WNC -- Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer, and it brings a lot of excitement to the mountains of Western North Carolina.

From festive street fairs and live music to solemn ceremonies honoring our heroes and abundant outdoor adventures, the region offers a diverse array of activities to suit every interest from May 23rd to May 26th, 2025.

Communities are getting ready to welcome both visitors and locals for a weekend of celebration and commemoration in beautiful towns and beautiful landscapes.  Now is the perfect time to discover the distinct culture, natural beauty, and friendly people that make Western NC special. You can also help the local businesses that are the core of these communities.

Featured Events & Festivals:
Several signature events anchor the weekend's festivities:

White Squirrel Weekend in Brevard: May 23-25. Head to downtown Brevard for their much-loved annual festival celebrating the town's unique white squirrels. Enjoy a parade, a packed schedule of live music featuring bands like Red Clay Revival and Shovels & Rope, delicious food vendors, and local arts and crafts.
Garden Jubilee in Hendersonville: May 24-25. Downtown Hendersonville transforms into a gardener's paradise with one of WNC's largest lawn and garden shows. Explore over 200 plant and craft vendors lining Main Street and get tips from gardening experts.
Downtown Asheville Festival of the Arts: May 24-25. Art enthusiasts can browse and buy unique pieces from over 100 regional, local, and national artists at this free outdoor festival held at 80 Court Plaza in downtown Asheville.
GRINDFest AVL in Asheville: While a month-long celebration, Memorial Day weekend is a key time for this festival highlighting Black business and entrepreneurship. Look for specific events including music, performances, workshops, and local vendors in the River Arts District.
Maggie Valley Fly Fishing & Outdoor Festival: May 23-24. Located at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds, this event is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a trout derby, fly fishing instruction, vendors, and live music.
Music and More:
Beyond the major festivals, live music can be found throughout the region:

Concerts on the Creek in Sylva: Starting on Memorial Day Weekend (May 23rd), enjoy free outdoor concerts every Friday evening from 7-9 PM at Bridge Park.
Saturday with Saints and Sinners at Appalachian Ridge in Hendersonville: Head to Saint Paul Mountain Farms on Saturday, May 24th (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM) for live music, cider, wine, and beer.
Grillin' & Chillin' Live Music and Dinner Season Kick-Off at Sugar Mountain Resort: On Memorial Day (May 26th), enjoy live music and a special dinner on the deck overlooking the golf course and mountains.
Honoring Our Heroes:
Memorial Day is a time for solemn reflection and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice:

Memorial Day Concert and Ceremony in Asheville: A heartfelt ceremony takes place at the Roger McGuire Green Stage in Pack Square Park on Memorial Day (May 26th) at 2:30 PM, including a performance by the Army National Guard's Army Band.
Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony in Asheville: A ceremony will be held at the cemetery at 10:00 AM on May 26th, with a viewing available on the City of Asheville's YouTube Channel at 3:00 PM.
Lake Lure Memorial Day Program: The Lake Lure Veterans Memorial will host a program at 9:00 AM on Memorial Day (May 26th).
Explore and Play:
Memorial Day weekend is also an excellent opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational offerings of Western NC:

Outdoor Adventures: Hit the trails for hiking, experience the thrill of ziplining or rafting, or cool off at natural waterslides like Sliding Rock (open with facilities starting May 23rd).
Biltmore Estate in Asheville: Explore the stunning gardens, which are typically in peak bloom, or enjoy outdoor activities on the estate grounds.
Fishing: Participate in the 2025 Memorial Day Fish Tournament hosted by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians on May 24-25 for a chance to win cash prizes in a tagged fish tournament.
Scenic Drives: Take a leisurely drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and stop at overlooks for breathtaking mountain vistas.
Sweet Treats and Local Brews: Indulge in the region's culinary scene, from farm-to-table restaurants to the numerous craft breweries that make Asheville the "Beer City." AVL Beer Week provides a perfect opportunity to sample local brews.
Arts and Culture: Visit local galleries and studios to admire and purchase unique handcrafted items.
Whether you're seeking lively entertainment, a chance to connect with nature, or a meaningful way to observe Memorial Day, Western North Carolina offers a wealth of experiences this weekend. Plan your visit, support local businesses, and create lasting memories in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

WNCTimes

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