Asheville Festivals, Farmers Markets and Craft Fairs

The Southern Highland Craft Guild is a nonprofit organization showcasing the handcraft traditions of the Southern Appalachians, with a permanent craft shop and gallery on Tunnel Road in East Asheville. Founded in 1930, the Guild represents hundreds of juried craftspeople working in pottery, fiber, glass, wood, jewelry and more, making it one of the oldest and most respected folk art and craft destinations in Asheville NC.

The Asheville Downtown Association, or ADA, is the nonprofit voice of downtown Asheville, working to keep it welcoming, safe and full of things to do. It advocates for downtown businesses and residents, supports public art and puts on free community events. Its big events include Downtown After 5, the summer concert series at Pack Square Park, and the Asheville Holiday Parade, which returns Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The WNC Farmers Market is a big year-round market at 570 Brevard Road in Southwest Asheville. Vendors sell local fresh fruits and vegetables along with artisan-made products all year long, so it's a one-stop shop for what's in season.

Our mission is to promote equality, safety, and quality of life for western North Carolina’s LGBTQ and allied communities, working as a united community through advocacy, celebration, education and service. We envision an inclusive community, where people are embraced for who they are and feel welcomed to engage and contribute. Located in Asheville, NC.

The River Arts District Farmers Market is Asheville's only year-round weekday farmers market, held Wednesdays from 3 to 6 PM at New Belgium Brewing, 21 Craven Street. More than 40 independent small businesses sell locally grown produce, meats, eggs, baked goods, plants and prepared foods.

WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher, NC, is a premier multi-purpose event facility hosting the North Carolina Mountain State Fair, horse shows, livestock exhibitions, trade shows, festivals, rodeos, car shows, dog shows, auctions, and more. The center includes the Morris L. “Mac” McGough Arena, seating 3,000, and the LEED-certified Davis Event Center with 27,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space. The huge 87-acre campus provides ample parking and a venue for a diverse array of community, regional, and national events year-round.