ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — From a major downtown festival to family-friendly activities and live music, there’s a wide range of things to do across Asheville and Western North Carolina this weekend. Here’s a look at some of the top events happening April 17–19.
If you only do one thing this weekend
Downtown After 5: Stomp & Holler Night
Pack Square Park, Asheville
Friday, April 17 | 5–9 p.m. | Free
One of Asheville’s most popular outdoor events returns with live music, food and drinks. This month’s “Stomp & Holler” theme brings a mix of Americana and roots-inspired sounds, making it a perfect group outing or casual night downtown.
Weekend at a glance
- Date night: Alabama Shakes at Harrah’s Cherokee Center
- Family-friendly: Maker Faire Asheville or Hendo Earth Fest
- Outdoors: Native Azalea Day at the NC Arboretum
- Arts & culture: Poetry in Black Mountain
Live music & nightlife
Alabama Shakes with Joy Oladokun
Harrah’s Cherokee Center, Asheville
Friday | 7:30 p.m. | Ticketed
A big-name concert for the weekend, with this nationally recognized act returning to Asheville.
All Night Boogie Band
The Grey Eagle Patio Stage, Asheville
Friday | 5:30 p.m. | All ages
A laid-back live music option with an outdoor setting.
Family-friendly & community
Maker Faire Asheville
A-B Tech Conference Center
Saturday | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. | Ticketed
A hands-on event featuring interactive exhibits, local makers and activities for all ages.
Hendo Earth Fest
Downtown Hendersonville
Saturday | Times vary | Free
A mix of environmental education, live music and family-friendly programming in a walkable downtown setting.
2026 Appalachian True Heritage Festival
Main Street, Downtown Waynesville
Friday 6 -9 p.m & Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free
Celebrate Appalachian history, traditional crafts, and Western North Carolina’s vibrant mountain culture. The event features heritage crafters, artisans, musicians, storytellers for a hands-on, educational, and immersive experience.
Arts & culture
Reginald Golden and the Reginald Golden Singers: “Stony the Road”
Diana Wortham Theatre, Asheville
Friday | 7 p.m. | Ticketed
A seated performance blending music and storytelling, offering a traditional theater experience.
The Dark City Speaks: An Evening of Poetry
Black Mountain Center for the Arts, Black Mountain
Saturday | 7:30 p.m. | Ticketed
An evening of spoken word and poetry in an intimate venue just outside Asheville.
Public Tour: Discovering Art in Asheville
Asheville Art Museum
Sunday | 3–4 p.m. | Included with admission
A guided tour highlighting works from the museum’s collection, ideal for a quieter Sunday outing.
Outdoors & daytime
Native Azalea Day
North Carolina Arboretum, Asheville
Saturday | Times vary | Included with admission
Celebrate spring with guided walks, educational programs and blooming native plants throughout the Arboretum.
Naturalist Niche: Signs of Spring
Chimney Rock State Park
Saturday | 9–11 a.m. | Park admission
Food, drink & local gatherings
Asheville Drag Brunch
Banks Ave. Bar, Asheville
Saturday | 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. | Ticketed | 21+
Brunch and live performances come together in this 21+ downtown Asheville event, offering a more adult, social option for the weekend.
Plant Bingo with Sprout & Bloom
The Mule at Devil’s Foot, Asheville
Sunday | 3 p.m. | $15 to play | All ages
Bingo with a twist! Play for a chance to win houseplant prizes.
Note: Event details are subject to change. Some events may be delayed or canceled due to weather or other conditions. Check with organizers for the latest updates before attending.
Looking ahead
For more events happening throughout the month, check out 828newsNOW’s local event listings and add your own here.