Set at Chetola Resort, this is one of Blowing Rock’s premier summer events, attracting about 4,000 people annually. Symphony of the Mountains began in 1946 with community orchestral performances and has since grown exponentially, developing into a fully professional, regional orchestra serving northeast Tennessee, southwest Virginia, and Western North Carolina. In addition to playing symphonic orchestral music, there have been collaborations with world-renowned soloists such as Bela Fleck, The McLain Family Band, and many others. So bring chairs, blankets, and any beverages you like for this electrifying event. » Chetola Resort, 185 Chetola Lake; Friday, gate opens at 5:30 p.m., performance begins at 7:30 p.m.; $85-$180; (828) 295-7851; www.blowingrock.com