ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Whether you’re into water activities, handcrafted art or intergalactic adventures, the Asheville area offers something for everyone this weekend. From outdoor excursions and live music to local craft fairs and a Star Trek-themed event, we have your definitive list of things to do in our weekend guide.
Friday, Aug. 1
Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair – 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Burnsville Town Square
Join us for the 69th annual Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair! Our region’s finest artists and craftsmen come together for this unforgettable event, held on the town square. Enjoy food, music, and more as this event takes place over two days. Join us for the biggest annual event in Burnsville!
Grassy Creek Gem and Mineral Show – 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Parkway Fire and Rescue event grounds, Spruce Pine, NC
Join over 60 vendors offering a diverse array of gems, minerals, fossils, jewelry, and lapidary supplies. Experience a family friendly atmosphere with opportunities to meet miners and artisans from across the country. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of gems and minerals, the Grassy Creek Gem & Mineral Show offers something for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore and discover unique treasures. This is an outdoor event.
NC Mineral and Gem Festival – 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Spruce Pine
Now in it’s 66th year in 2025, we welcome you to come back, or come for the first time, to celebrate Mitchell County’s rich mining heritage and also celebrate our community’s comeback since Hurricane Helene. The NC Mineral and Gem Festival showcases jewelry, gems, and minerals, along with engaging activities like mine tours!
Saturday, Aug. 2
Snorkel the French Broad River Headwaters – 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Champion’s River Park Access, Rosman
Join MountainTrue staff and partners for a guided snorkeling experience on the French Broad River’s headwaters at Champion Park in Rosman, NC. Come reconnect with the river post-Hurricane-Helene. We will be guided by Kevin Merrill – Owner & Biologist with Oxbow River Snorkeling. $22.50 to $25.00—Equipment rental available for extra fee
The 17th Annual Asheville Comedy Festival – 7:30 p.m., Diana Wortham Theatre, Asheville
The festival kicks off with a star-studded opening weekend, featuring comedy heavyweights Ben Bailey, Jessica Michelle Singleton and Eleanore Kerrigan. Whether you know Ben from Cash Cab, Jessica for her unapologetically bold stand-up, or Eleanore for her raw, relatable humor, each headliner is sure to bring their A-game and keep you laughing all night long. It’s the perfect start to a festival that celebrates the best in live comedy. $23.50 to $28.50
98th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival – 7-10 p.m., Asheville High School, 419 McDowell St.
The final night of the 98th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, a celebration of Southern Appalachian music and movement, will be held in the auditorium at Asheville High School on Saturday night. Over 15 different artists will take the stage to present bluegrass tunes, mountain clogging and old-time string music. Tickets for adults are $20. Tickets for students and kids ages 6-12 are $5.
Sunday, Aug. 3
Improvised Star Trek – 7:30-9 p.m., North Carolina Stage Company, Asheville
Improvised Star Trek is an entirely made-up play in the style of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Join the comedy, nerdiness, and fun! Your suggestions will help determine our story and then the cast will boldly go! $9.00 to $18.00
National Friendship Day Sundae Special – noon-10 p.m., all The Hop locations
This Sunday, every single one of The Hop ice cream shops will observe National Friendship Day with $1 all sundaes, banana splits, Brownie Delights and Cookie Supremes. Share a sundae with a friend in North Asheville, West Asheville, downtown, Black Mountain or at The Creamery.