ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The first weekend of August brings traditional music and dance, outdoor programs, family-friendly theater, garden tours, festivals and live music to Asheville and communities across Western North Carolina.
Events planned July 31-Aug. 2 include the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, World Ranger Day, the Grassy Creek Mineral and Gem Show, Flat Rock Playhouse Garden Tours and a children’s theater production of “Willy Wonka.”
Here’s a look at some of the events scheduled for the weekend.
Weekend at a glance
- Family-friendly: World Ranger Day, Grassy Creek Mineral and Gem Show or “Willy Wonka”
- Festival: Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, Blooms & Bushels Festival or Meat & Metal 2026
- Live music: Rhiannon Giddens presents American Tunes or Norah Jones and Bonnie Raitt Tribute
- Health and wellness: Appalachian Mountain Health Fair
- Outdoors: Flat Rock Playhouse Garden Tours or Outdoor Fair in the Park
- Arts and culture: Playground Stage Children’s Theatre presents “Willy Wonka”
Family-friendly & community
Chimney Rock…