May 19, 2023
A girl sitting in a field on a sunny day

The incredible array of arts, culture, and nature in Asheville, NC, includes lots of annual events to enjoy. Don’t miss the five best summer activities to experience in the city this season.

1. Downtown After Five

Enjoy live music, refreshments from food trucks, and more at this monthly community celebration. This Friday evening event on North Lexington Avenue is celebrating its 35th anniversary in Asheville this summer. Downtown After Five is free and open to the public. Upcoming dates include May 19 with Baba Commandant and the Mandingo Band, June 16 with Victoria Victoria featuring Charlie Hunter, July 21 with The Rumble featuring Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr., and August 18 with Asheville All Stars.


2. Asheville Art in the Park

You can browse all types of art from paintings to ceramics to jewelry and beyond at the twice-yearly Art in the Park event. Professional artists apply for acceptance to this market, with jury selection by representatives from organizations such as the Asheville Area Arts Council and American Craft Week in Western North Carolina.

The June Art in the Park series takes place on June 3, 10, and 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It will also return for a three-day engagement in October. You’ll find the handmade market at 0 Pack Square in Asheville.


3. Movies in the Park

Sponsored by Asheville Parks and Recreation, this family event takes place in Pack Square Park at 0 Park Square in Asheville. You can catch an outdoor showing of Cruella on June 10, Top Gun: Maverick on July 14, and Little Giants on August 11.

The fun starts when the sun sets. However, you can come early to take part in activities at the park’s Rec n Roll Play Zone.


4. Family Outdoor Night: Let’s Try Fishing

Kids and adults ages 5 and older can learn to fish at this fun Parks and Recreation event, and you don’t even need a fishing license to participate. You’ll receive fishing poles and bait along with some basic fishing knowledge in an introductory lesson. This event costs just $2 per person, and you need to register in advance at the Parks and Rec website. It takes place on August 15 at Azalea Pond Park, 498 Azalea Road East in Asheville, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.


5. Hola Asheville

Part of the Hola Carolina series designed to celebrate the area’s ethnic and cultural diversity, Hola Asheville gives you a chance to experience many facets of Latin American culture on June 10. You’ll see dancing and costumes while enjoying authentic food and live music. It all takes place in Pack Square Park at 0 Park Square.

The sleek Lincoln Corsair will get you to Asheville’s many summer events in style. Schedule your test drive today at Asheville Lincoln.

Image via Pixabay