NC Apple Festival, photo by Andy Jay
As summer comes to a close, the mountains come alive to celebrate the last rays of the season. Whether you’re ready to bite into the flavors of fall or just want to get outside while the weather’s warm, we’ve got ideas for your Labor Day around WNC.
NC Apple Festival
It’s apple season in the mountains, and Hendersonville will celebrate all things apple with the return of its annual NC Apple Festival. There’s a street fair with lots of apple-themed vendors, live music, kids activities, and more.
ncapplefestival.org
Art on the Greene
The final of the season’s four celebrations, Art on the Greene in Banner Elk showcases handmade arts and crafts from regional and national artisans. The festival, showcasing art in mediums like metal, glass, ceramics, wood, watercolor, acrylics and oil, also includes food and live music.
bannerelk.com/members/art-on-the-greene/
Goombay Festival
This annual festival, held in downtown Asheville for the 40th year, celebrates the African-Caribbean heritage of our region. Enjoy the tastes (and smells!) of traditional food vendors and live music and dancing with gospel, reggae, funk, and soul. This year’s fest takes place at The Block on South Market Street.
ymiculturalcenter.org/goombay
Maggie Valley Arts & Crafts Show
Three times throughout the year, 100+ Southeastern artisans gather in Maggie Valley to share their wares. You can shop these arts and crafts, watch chainsaw art in action, and fill up on food from local vendors.
maggievalleyfestivalgrounds.com/maggie-valley-festivals-events/maggie-valley-arts-crafts-shows/
Waterfall Hikes
Waterfalls are beautiful in all seasons, but only in the summer are they swimmable. Revisit our guide to Asheville area waterfall hikes, and plan a final summer hurrah at a local watering hole.
Get the Kids Outside
Whether you want to hike, bike, zip, or swim, there are plenty of ways to get outside this weekend—especially those that offer fun for the kiddos. Revisit our kid-friendly guide for ways to occupy the long weekend ahead.
