ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The first weekend of May brings a full calendar of events across Asheville and Western North Carolina, from a brand-new downtown festival to concerts, community gatherings and family-friendly outings.
Here’s a look at some of the top things to do May 1–3.
If you only do one thing this weekend
Asheville BuskerFest
Pritchard Park, Downtown Asheville, and in the River Arts District, stages at; All Souls Pizza, RAD Brewing Co, and the Wedge Brewery at Foundation in conjunction with The Marquee.
Saturday & Sunday | Free
A new festival centered on street performers, musicians and live entertainment makes its debut in Asheville this weekend. With free performances and a walkable setting, it offers one of the easiest and most fun ways to spend time in the city.
Asheville BuskerFest Map
Weekend at a glance
- Date night: Ani DiFranco with Valerie June
- Family-friendly: Asheville Busker Fest or Black Cat Tales
- Arts & culture: Pride & Prejudice
- Outdoors & daytime: Marshall Magic Days or Town Trail Fest
- Food, drink & local gathering: New Belgium’s 10 Year in Asheville Anniversary Celebration
Live music & nightlife
Ani DiFranco with special guest Valerie June
Asheville Yards, Downtown Asheville
Saturday 7 p.m. | Ticketed
Acclaimed singer-songwriter Ani DiFranco returns to Asheville for an inspiring night of live music.
Mars Hill First Fridays
Downtown Mars Hill
Friday, 5 p.m. | Free
Live music, local businesses and a small-town atmosphere make this a strong Friday evening option.
Family-friendly & community
Asheville BuskerFest
Downtown Asheville and venues around town
Saturday & Sunday | Free
Street performers, musicians and entertainers bring a festival atmosphere to downtown Asheville in a new event with broad appeal for families and visitors alike.
Black Cat Tales
House of Black Cat Magic, West Asheville
Friday 4 p.m. | Ticketed
A family-friendly storytelling event that offers a creative and lighter way to begin the weekend. Families with children age 7 & under can relax in the cat lounge and listen to a cat-centric book surrounded by “resident panthers”!
Tanger Outlets Asheville Spring in Bloom Event
Tanger Outlets, Asheville
Sunday, Noon | Free
A Mother’s Day-themed spring gathering gives families and shoppers a casual daytime outing. Guests can enjoy free professional photos, bouquets from the Let It Be Flower Truck, along with a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Marshall Magic Days
Downtown Marshall
Friday & Saturday | Free
This weekend Marshall marks the one-year anniversary of their downtown’s post-Helene reopening with a Friday evening market and live music throughout the weekend. Featured performers include Josh Goforth, Bryan McDowell, and Sheila Kay Adams.
Arts & culture
Pride & Prejudice
Flat Rock, NC
Friday, 7:30 p.m. | Ticketed
Enjoy a new spin on Jane Austen’s sharpest comedy. This adaptation stays true to Jane Austen’s heart while delivering a fresh and fearless modern twist on the classic.
Outdoors & daytime
Town Trail Fest
Hot Springs
Friday 9 a.m – 9 p.m. & Saturday 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. | Free
Celebrate Hot Springs and the Appalachian Trail with live music, duck race, vendors, cornhole tournament, and more!
20th Annual Chamber Challenge 5K
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, Asheville
Friday | 4 p.m.
This long-running community race offers an active start to the weekend.
Food, drink & local gathering
New Belgium’s 10 Year in Asheville Anniversary Celebration
New Belgium Brewing, Asheville
Saturday, Noon | Free
One of Asheville’s best-known gathering places celebrates a decade in the city with a carnival themed event filled with fun and giveaways! Explore a vibrant midway of local talent and creative experiences — all set in atmosphere for all ages.
Kentucky Derby Party
Peri Social House, Black Mountain
Saturday | 4 p.m.
A social Saturday afternoon option built around one of spring’s signature sporting events. Live music with Eric Barnes, free snow cones for kids and much more!
Looking ahead
More concerts, festivals and seasonal events are scheduled throughout May. Find additional local listings on the 828newsNOW events calendar.
Note
Event details are subject to change. Some events may be delayed, rescheduled or canceled due to weather or other conditions. Check official event listings for the latest updates before attending.