event-calendar

EVENTS

Lauded as the “father of modern bluegrass” by The New York Times, Tony Trischka brings his considerable talent as a renowned banjo player to Sparta this spring in a tribute to his idol Earl Scruggs. Trischka, who has been playing the 5-string instrument for 60 years, recently discovered some of Scruggs non-recorded songs, and it’s from this treasure trove that he’ll be playing at the Muddy Creek Cafe. » Muddy Creek Cafe & Music Hall, 60 S Main St.; Friday, 8 p.m.; $50; (336) 372-5999; www.muddycreekcafeandmusichall.com

Ensuring a family friendly, fun-filled day set against beautiful scenery and the enchantment of spring, the 44th annual trout derby offers some of the best trout fishing in Western North Carolina. Whether you’re there to fish or observe, you’ll be able to cast a line to win a prize, get creative in the Art Contest for Kids, and savor the local fare at one of Blowing Rock’s many delectable dining establishments.  »  Blowing Rock Clubhouse, 108 Lakeside Dr.; Saturday, sunrise-4:30 p.m.; free; (828) 295-4636; www.blowingrock.com

Covering a number of musical genres, the Flatwoods Festival offers up a combination of bluegrass, folk, gospel, and country tunes, with artists including versatile singer-songwriter Mark Stuart, as well as local names like The Jacktown Ramblers (Morganton), The New Primitive (Forest City), and The Cornbread Junkies (Sparta). This musical menagerie takes place at Into the Wild Retreat, a glamping site set on a picturesque farm. » 2568 Flatwoods Post Office Rd.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; $20; (828) 406-287; www.intothewildretreat.com

2024 marks the 18th year of this event, which benefits the Rotary Club of Catawba Valley. The half marathon will test your endurance as the course crawls up high elevations. Organizers say participants will have run the equivalent of a sixty-story high-rise before finishing. The Charity Chase 5K will take participants through the scenic downtown section of Hickory.  » Downtown, 4th St. NW and Main Ave. NW; Saturday, 7 a.m.; $30 5k, $55 half marathon; charitychasehalfmarathon@gmail.com; Facebook: Charity Chase Half Marathon

Gleaning their name from Scottish poet Robert Tannahill, and Paisley, Scotland’s weaving industry, the Tannahill Weavers will perform their lineup of Celtic tunes at Ashe Civic Center. Incorporating fiddles, flutes, tin whistles, Highland bagpipes, guitars, and vocals into their musical performances, this Scottish folks band will delight the audience with original ballads, humorous tales, lullabies, and lively Celtic songs.  »  Ashe Civic Center, 962 Mt. Jefferson Rd.; Tuesday, 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m.; $24, $7.50 students; (336) 846-2787; www.ashecountyarts.org

In its 36th year, MerleFest celebrates late founder Doc Watson’s vision of uniting multiple genres of music, including folk, bluegrass, and gospel. His flat-picking style of guitar playing was a game changer, especially in bluegrass. Headliners for this four-day event, which typically draws a musical migration of more than 70,000 attendees, include Old Crow Medicine Show, Turnpike Troubadours, and Nickel Creek, in addition to lots of new voices.» Wilkes Community College, 1328 S Collegiate Dr.; Thursday 1:30 p.m., Friday-Sunday 9:30 a.m.; general admission $80-$115, multi-day pass $205-$505; (800) 343-7857; www.merlefest.org

For more than four decades, Asheville’s Spring Herb Festival has been highlighting herbs, heirlooms and exotic plants, soap, tinctures, extracts, and many other local goods for those with a green thumb. Also offering free workshops covering a variety of gardening topics, the festival hosts a variety of regional farms, manufacturers, and other industry professionals like Serotonin Ferments, The Hickory Nut, the Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine, and Asheville Tea Company. » WNC Agricultural Center, 765 Boylston Hwy.; Friday & Saturday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; free; (828) 301-8968; www.ashevilleherbfestival.org

This 208-miles course has been attracting hardy runners for more than a decade, and isn’t geared for novices. Teams comprising six, nine, or 12 runners will split up the 36 legs of this strenuous route. Challenging but beautiful terrain begins in Brevard at the Pisgah Ranger Station Visitor Center in the Pisgah National Forest, and ends at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, with a couple of exchanges dipping into the Blue Ridge Mountains. »  1600 Pisgah Hwy., Pisgah Forest; Friday-Saturday, 4 a.m.-noon; $165+; info@kickitevents.com; www.smokymountainrelay.com

Bred right here in Western North Carolina for over 300 years by the Plott family, the Plott Hound has been North Carolina’s state dog since 1989. This festival celebrates the breed—and our mountain culture—with a canine-centric day of crafts, concerts, food, and more. There will also be Plott dog competitions, as well as a bench show hosted by the United Kennel Club. » Maggie Valley Festival Grounds, 3374 Soco Rd.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; $15 advance, $20 at gate, ages 12 and under free; beardogs1750@yahoo.comwww.mountainmemoriesproductions.com

Dedicated to sustainability and the continued community outreach and promotion of the town of Sylva, the 26th annual event celebrates the onset of spring. This heritage arts festival honors the history of Appalachia with crafts, music, food, and beverages aplenty. Boasting more than 150 vendor booth spaces, and attracting crowds annually of more than 12,000, there’s something for everyone here. A 5k run, libations from local craft breweries, and much more should ensure a great time. Friendly dogs on leashes are also welcome. »  Historic Downtown Sylva; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m; free; (828) 586-2719; www.townofsylva.org

Now in its fourth year, Valdese’s historic Old Rock School gives a multitude of vendors the opportunity to peddle their wares. Offerings include goat cheese, handmade candles, all-natural bath and body products, woodwork, pottery, jewelry and accessories, home décor, yard art, toys, and more. Local musicians will also be performing, and the Valdese Pilot Club will have refreshments for visitors. » Old Rock School, 400 Main St. W; Saturday, 9 a.m.; free; (828) 874-6774; www.visitvaldese.com

Shirk the winter blues and celebrate spring with staff and students of the John C. Campbell Folk School, as they celebrate May Day with a parade beginning at Festival Barn, then proceeding to a joyous circle dance around the Maypole, among other revelry. Donning nature-themed frocks and other festive costumes is encouraged. Puppet shows, choreographed performances by the Brasstown Morris Dance Teams, and other activities will put a spring in your step. » John C. Campbell Folk School, One Folk School Rd.; Saturday, 11:30 a.m.; free; (828) 837-2775; www.folkschool.org

Now in its second year, the Blue Ridge Ukulele Festival celebrates this lute instrument and those who play it with workshops, group jam sessions, open mic options to show off, and plenty of vendors from whom to partake. Whether it’s expanding your playing skills or mingling with those who share your interests, this fair is sure to be well-attended and lively. » Burke Arts Council, 506 S. Sterling St.; Friday-Sunday, times vary; $135; (828) 433‑7282; www.burkearts.org

The Outdoor Business Alliance of WNC is hosting its annual Get in Gear Fest, an event that showcases a vast array of recreational gear along the French Broad River. According to Abby Harris, with Darby Communications, “attendees are encouraged to walk, ride, or float into the festival.” Visitors can chat with outdoor gear experts, while savoring local repast, cool beverages. There will be a kids’ bike park, e-bike riding, paddleboarding, vendors, and much more. » The Outpost, 521 Amboy Rd.; Saturday, noon-5 p.m.; free; info@outdoorgearbuilders.com; www.getingearfest.com

Murphy Art Walk is an artist-run event that occurs the first Friday of every month from May-December. Produced by Valley River Arts Guild at the Murphy Art Center, it’s now in its 14th year, says Debra Vanderlaan, president of the arts guild. Attendees can enjoy works from artists, crafters, and musicians as they, “showcase their arts and crafts, perform dance and theater, and play music on the Square,” she adds. The outdoor venue typically hosts more than 60 artisans plying their trade, with kids’ crafts tables set up, and much to offer in the local shops, pubs, and galleries just yards away.  » Downtown Murphy; first Fridays, 5 p.m.-8 p.m.; free; (214) 315-6852; www.valleyriverarts.com

A popular multicultural festival, LEAF Retreat celebrates diversity and community through arts, music, and education. This year’s theme is “World Changers: Artists and Activists” which showcases the creation of art and honoring, “causes that resonate with the heartbeat of humanity.” First held in 2021, this annual retreat boasts camping, classes, water sports, and a bevy of musical performances from notable artists like Grammy-nominated Afro-Cuban Cimafunk and the modern bluegrass band Big Richard.  » 377 Lake Eden Rd.; Thursday 4:30 p.m., Friday-Sunday 9 a.m.; $50-$250; (828) 686-8742; www.theleaf.org

This multi-concert event features a variety of musical acts, from bluegrass and indie rock to country rock and soul. Previous performers include Band of Horses, and Spoon. Other amenities include a local makers market, artisan food, and craft cocktails on tap. The festival is named in honor of the bear-like shadow that appears behind Whiteside Mountain in the fall and spring. Ticket sales also support conservation and preservation efforts.  » Winfield Farm, 250 Winfield Farm Rd.; Saturday 1:30-9:30 p.m., Sunday 12:30-8 p.m.; general admission $157.50-$255, VIP $292.50-$510, 2-day platinum VIP $6,000; info@bearshadownc.comwww.bearshadownc.com

An award-winning celebration, this event is the place to be for enthusiasts of Southern folk art. This juried show and market offers unique folk art available for purchase directly from the artists. A variety of mediums are available including jewelry, metalwork, mixed media, pottery, and illustrations. Be sure to bring the whole family, as there will be events for kids as well as a food truck roundup (and a beer garden for visitors aged 21 and up). » Downtown Newton; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; free; (828) 695-4360; www.foothillsfolkartfestival.com

These races have been taking place on the grand Biltmore Estate grounds since 1997, and serve as the biggest fundraiser for the Asheville Kiwanis Club, which works to aid children and those in need. Both the 5k and 15k begin and end at the estate’s Antler HIll Village and are USATF certified, and you can expect some nice race swag. » Biltmore Estates, One Lodge Street; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. (15k) & 7:45 a.m. (5k); $90+; info@kickitevents.com; www.biltmorekiwanisclassic.com

In its second year, Saved by a Salamander Day touts conservation efforts and environmentally friendly practices, especially as they pertain to the preservation of the New River and its wildlife. Hosted by the New River Conservancy, the festival’s name is said to stem from the 1960s and ’70s when a powerful electric company attempted to dam the New River and flood the Grassy Creek valley but was prevented by a rare Hellbender salamander. There will be local speakers, recreational activities, critter interactions, vendors, box lunches from The Old Store, and opportunities to learn more about the river and healthy water sustainability. It’s all topped off by music from The Jeff Little Trio. » Outside The Old Store, 710 Grassy Creek Rd.; Saturday, 1 p.m.; free; (336) 384-1220; www.newriverconservancy.org

Rising star Noah Kahan, recruited to perform on recordings with the likes of Mumford & Sons and Post Malone, brings his special style of meaningful folk-pop singing and songwriting to Harrah’s this spring. The Vermont native has been dropping albums since high school, and last year, his third album, Stick Season, reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts for rock/alt music, earning the 27-year-old a Grammy nomination. »  Harrah’s Cherokee Center, 87 Haywood St.; Monday & Wednesday, 8 p.m.; $99.50 - $199.50; (828) 259-5736; www.harrahscherokeecenterasheville.com

The renowned white squirrels of Brevard continue to elicit intrigue and charm, and for two decades, the community has honored these captivating creatures with a weekend event named after them. Expect a litany of family-friendly activities, with live music, a diverse array of vendors, arts and crafts, and libations from local breweries. Plus, have a photo taken with the White Squirrel mascot and enjoy the environs of this delightful mountain town.   »   Downtown Brevard, E. Main St.; Friday, Saturday & Sunday, times vary; free; (828) 884-3278; www.brevardnc.org

Celebrated as one of the largest gardening events in Western North Carolina, the fête draws plant and outdoor vendors and enthusiasts from throughout the state. More than 200 craft and plant vendors line Hendersonville’s downtown streets, creating a, “seven-block garden wonderland,” according to Terrye Jacobs, event coordinator for the city.  Numerous nurseries will be selling non-flowering and flowering plants, even those not typically found when out plant shopping. There will be hand-made crafts of all kinds, including furniture, birdhouses, soaps, pottery, and much more. Additionally, there will be gardening experts on hand, providing valuable tips. » Main Street; Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.;  free; (828) 693-9708, www.hendersonvillenc.gov

Melons, cucumbers, squash, pumpkins, you name it—gourds of all shapes and sizes are welcome at this celebration of the often-inedible fruit family. Find displayed artwork made from the eponymous produce, as well as vendors offering raw gourds and crafting supplies. There will also be classes offered throughout the four-day festival, alongside demonstrations and displays.» Smoky Mountain Event Center, 758 Crabtree Rd.; Wednesday-Sunday, times vary; $10; suzi.gourds@gmail.com; www.gourdgathering.org

In its third year, the High Country Jazz Festival returns for three days of performances, film viewing, and celebrations at the Appalachian Theatre. The main acts this year are the Brubeck Brothers Quartet, a group that has traveled the world with a straight-ahead style, Grammy nominee and jazz vocalist Jazzmeia Horn, and the mid-20th-century-inspired group Ziad Jazz Quartet. Smaller showings will be held at various venues surrounding the area, including late night renditions at The Beacon Butcher Bar. » Multiple venues.; Thursday-Sunday, times vary; prices vary; (828) 865-3000; www.apptheatre.org

This relatively-new cultural phenomenon is celebrating its third anniversary. Mark Freed, cultural resources director for the town, says the festival gets its name from, “an endearing term used by people who spend time in Boone, move away, but return to live or visit regularly—‘booneranging’ back to the place we love.” Visitors can expect multiple stages of live performances across an array of musical genres, along with food, beer, a kids’ zone, and after-parties. Headliners include The Nude Party, Melissa Reaves, and Empire Strikes Brass, among many others. » Downtown Boone; Friday 5:30 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.; free; www.boonerangfest.com

Likely to remain a favorite holiday memory, this night of fun features  a performance by the Transylvania Choral Society accompanied by the Brevard Philharmonic Orchestra, the latter under the baton of James C. Fellenbaum. Listen to favorites such as Tchaikovsky’s music from The Nutcracker and “Christmas Waltz” from The Seasons, in addition to well-known holiday arrangements from other musicians. Since its formation in 1975, the Transylvania Choral Society has become one of the premier musical arts organizations in Western North Carolina and is under the direction of David Gresham of Brevard College.  »  The Porter Center, 1 Brevard College Dr.; Sunday, 3 p.m.; $43; (828) 884-4221; www.brevardphilharmonic.org