Happy Thursday, Buncombe County!

💡 Buncombe Fact: It was once so big they called it a state. In its earliest days, Buncombe County was nicknamed "The State of Buncombe" because its borders encompassed an enormous portion of western North Carolina, stretching all the way to the Tennessee line.

In today’s edition:

Let’s get to it.

— Sean Kolina

GRINDfest returns to Pack Square Park on June 13th, and this year carries real weight. Under the theme "Rebuilding is Everybody's Business," the festival is leaning into Asheville's recovery story through Black entrepreneurship, culture, and community. Founder J. Hackett has called this the biggest year yet, and the lineup backs that up: a Business Summit, live pitch competition, Black Business Market, performances throughout the day, and a full evening concert series. Whether you're a founder, a fan, or just looking for a great Saturday out, this one is worth your time.

📍 Where: Pack Square Park, Downtown Asheville
📅 When: Saturday, June 13th | 10am – 9pm
💲 Price: Free

Event Details

Downtown Weaverville turns its Main Street into an open-air concert for one night every summer. Now in its 8th year, Music on Main brings three live bands, local food trucks, craft beer, and family activities to one of Buncombe County's most charming small towns. This year's lineup runs from the Cajun-flavored Jackomo Band at 4pm to southern rock headliners Holy Roller closing out the night at 7pm. Bring your lawn chairs and your appetite.

📍 Where: Main Street, Weaverville
📅 When: Saturday, June 13th | 4pm – 9pm
💲 Price: Free

Event Details

The US Men's National Team kicks off their World Cup against Paraguay, and Bear's Smokehouse BBQ is hosting a watch party at Bear's Back Alley Bar on Coxe Avenue. Catch the match live on the big screen with $3 Modelo pints, swag giveaways, and plenty of BBQ to go around. Kickoff is at 8:15pm. Come early and bring your crew.

📍 Where: Bear's Back Alley Bar, 133 Coxe Ave
📅 When: Friday, June 12th | 8pm – 11pm
💲 Price: Free to attend

Event Details

This isn't your typical fairy tale. Local theatre company Be Young reimagines the classic Grimm story in 1940s Appalachia, following a family navigating the hardships of the Great Depression through bravery, trust, loss, and love. The score is played entirely live with banjo, guitar, spoons, and vocal harmonies. Two days only, so grab tickets before they're gone.

📍 Where: North Carolina Stage Company, 15 Stage Ln
📅 When: Friday, June 12th | 7pm // Saturday, June 13th | 10am & 2pm
💲 Price: $12 - $22

Get Tickets

The RAD Half Marathon and 10K is back on Sunday with a fast, downhill course running from Downtown Asheville straight through the River Arts District and finishing along the French Broad River. The race supports the River Arts District Artists Foundation and the district's ongoing recovery. Not running? The Saturday Artisan Market and Race Expo at The Venue runs 1pm to 5pm and is open to everyone, with a post-race party at Hi-Wire Brewing on Sunday featuring live music and food trucks.

📍 Where: Starts Downtown Asheville, finishes in the River Arts District
📅 When: Sunday, June 14th | 7am start | Artisan Market Saturday, June 13th 1pm – 5pm
💲 Price: Registration required for race | Market and post-race party free

Register and Learn More

The Asheville Tourists are hosting their first ever on-field movie night at HomeTrust Park, screening the 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch on the largest videoboard in WNC. Gates open at 6:30pm and the movie starts at 7:30pm. General admission seating is open in the bowl, and blankets are welcome on the outfield grass. Concessions will be available, and it's a great low-key summer night out for the whole family.

📍 Where: HomeTrust Park, 30 Buchanan Pl
📅 When: Saturday, June 13th | Gates 6:30pm | Movie 7:30pm
💲 Price: Ticketed

Event Details

Local arts educator Lorelle Bacon brings her signature Painting with Wool needle felting workshop back this week. Using wool roving and barbed needles, students learn to create impressionistic landscapes through blending and layering techniques, with Lorelle walking through color theory and composition along the way. All materials are included and you leave with a finished piece ready to frame. Class seats are limited, so registration is worth doing sooner than later.

📍 Where: 77 Catawba Ave, Old Fort
📅 When: Saturday, June 13th | 11am - 5pm
💲 Price: $105

Learn More

Asheville

Black Mountain

Weaverville

Candler / Fairview

😋 Weekly Appalachian inspired recipe: Southern Fried Apples- home cooks at any level appreciate the simple ingredients and easy steps.

🎵 Who we are listening to: Don't Worry – Autograf. A laid-back blend of electronic beats and feel-good energy that's made for sunny drives, patio afternoons, and easing into the weekend.

💛 Local Nonprofits. Dogwood Alliance - a local nonprofit focused on advancing environmental justice and climate action by mobilizing diverse voices to protect Southern forests and communities from industrial logging.

🙏 Positive News Around the Globe: Dutch kids have been named the happiest in the world again. Researchers point to strong social connections, outdoor play, lower academic pressure, and a culture that prioritizes balance and wellbeing. Read Article

✨ A calm mindset can be more powerful than constant motion.

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