Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Asheville I-240-Tunnel Road (Asheville Mall), NC

What could be better on a summer's evening than to sit back and enjoy the heartfelt music and dance that have...

What could be better on a summer's evening than to sit back and enjoy the heartfelt music and dance that have distinguished the Appalachians for generations? For more than 40 years, folks have turned out for this lively series, watching youngsters clog, catching musicians fiddle, hearing singers perform, and listening to storytellers share tales. The camaraderie is palpable, and many impromptu sessions crop up among spectators. Watch it all happen, or join in yourself!

Hours: Sat, Jun 30, 2012: 7pm - 10pm Sat, Jul 7, 2012: 7pm - 10pm Sat, Jul 14, 2012: 7pm - 10pm Sat, Jul 21, 2012: 7pm - 10pm Sat, Aug 11, 2012: 7pm - 10pm Sat, Aug 18, 2012: 7pm - 10pm Sat, Aug 25, 2012: 7pm - 10pm Sat, Sep 1, 2012: 7pm - 10pm

Named for a particular style of drum and recalling the days of slavery in Bermuda and the Caribbean islands, this...

Named for a particular style of drum and recalling the days of slavery in Bermuda and the Caribbean islands, this cultural festival highlights the customs and traditions of those past days. It features lots of colorful costumes, rhythmic dancing, percussive music, and other family-friendly activities. Food and crafts also add a note of welcome authenticity.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Fri, Aug 24, 2012 Sat, Aug 25, 2012 Sun, Aug 26, 2012

Held since 1928, this amazing festival recognizes the beauty and vitality of southern Appalachian life. Born of Irish,...

Held since 1928, this amazing festival recognizes the beauty and vitality of southern Appalachian life. Born of Irish, Scottish, African and English traditions, the singular culture is communicated in song, dance, and oral tradition. Come see folks keep the standards alive and give them renewed respect through their own passion and love of place.

Hours: Thu, Aug 2, 2012: 7pm - 10pm Fri, Aug 3, 2012: 7pm - 10pm Sat, Aug 4, 2012: 7pm - 10pm

Asheville's preeminent festival is over 30 years old. The name means "beautiful living," and you'll see that it...

Asheville's preeminent festival is over 30 years old. The name means "beautiful living," and you'll see that it rings true when you're regaled by six stages of live music, loads of food and drink vendors, and countless artists selling their carefully crafted wares. Upwards of 300,000 folks turn out annually for the street party ­ it's a don't-miss summer affair!

Hours: Fri, Jul 27, 2012: Noon - 10pm Sat, Jul 28, 2012: 10am - 10pm Sun, Jul 29, 2012: Noon - 6pm

Completely enamored of fine craftwork? You'll absolutely love this event, which has been a local mainstay for more than...

Completely enamored of fine craftwork? You'll absolutely love this event, which has been a local mainstay for more than 30 years. Over 100 vendors bring their goods to show off, and the quality is always quite high. Expect to see items made of metal, wood, fiber, ceramics, and more, not to mention jewelry and 2-D art.

Hours: Sat, Aug 3, 2013: 10am - 7pm Sun, Aug 4, 2013: Noon - 6pm

The nation's birthday is always a joyous occasion, and Asheville throws a party that's literally a blast to attend. The...

The nation's birthday is always a joyous occasion, and Asheville throws a party that's literally a blast to attend. The downtown area plies folks with lots of delicious foods, treats them to a range of musical events, and lets them slough off their cares with a host of summertime activities. At the end of the day, fireworks light up the sky in celebration, a perfect conclusion to a day well-spent.

Hours: Wed, Jul 4, 2012: 4pm - 10pm

Recipient of much acclaim (maybe you've its seen coverage on The Food Network), this yearly competition unites the...

Recipient of much acclaim (maybe you've its seen coverage on The Food Network), this yearly competition unites the disciplines of architecture and baking. Dedicated contestants craft incredible structures from gingerbread and candies, awing spectators and giving judges much to consider. Even after the winners have been proclaimed, the houses stay exhibited for visitors to admire.

Hours: Daily Thu, Dec 13, 2012 Fri, Dec 14, 2012 Sat, Dec 15, 2012 Sun, Dec 16, 2012 Mon, Dec 17, 2012 Tue, Dec 18, 2012 Wed, Dec 19, 2012 Thu, Dec 20, 2012 Fri, Dec 21, 2012 Sat, Dec 22, 2012 Sun, Dec 23, 2012 Mon, Dec 24, 2012 Tue, Dec 25, 2012 Wed, Dec 26, 2012 Thu, Dec 27, 2012 Fri, Dec 28, 2012 Sat, Dec 29, 2012 Sun, Dec 30, 2012 Mon, Dec 31, 2012 Tue, Jan 1, 2013 Wed, Jan 2, 2013

Asheville enjoys a reputation for having both wealth and alternative tendencies, for being simultaneously artsy and...

Asheville enjoys a reputation for having both wealth and alternative tendencies, for being simultaneously artsy and philanthropic. This gallery event allows folks to contribute to worthy causes while it grants them discounts on terrific merchandise. Enjoy savings on glass, ceramics, jewelry, merchandise, and other goods while you contribute to organizations that combat domestic violence and do other admirable works.

Hours: April 2013

In the market for something stunning and well-crafted for your home? This venerable antiques show is highly regarded,...

In the market for something stunning and well-crafted for your home? This venerable antiques show is highly regarded, and the merchandise it presents runs the gamut from furniture and silver to art, rugs, and jewelry. Most items hail from the U.S. or North America, and more than 40 dealers are showcased.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Fri, Nov 2, 2012: 10am - 6pm Sat, Nov 3, 2012: 10am - 6pm Sun, Nov 4, 2012: Noon - 5pm

Sure, you love the mountains, but you want to spend your leisure hours doing more than browsing arts and crafts booths...

Sure, you love the mountains, but you want to spend your leisure hours doing more than browsing arts and crafts booths or listening to live music. This festival kicks up the action and expects you to join in! It consists of a variety of body-testing pursuits, including cycling, running, climbing, paddling, skateboarding, and even playing the much-maligned dodge ball. Catering to novices and pros alike, the festival will definitely get your blood pumping!

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Fri, May 25, 2012 Sat, May 26, 2012 Sun, May 27, 2012