Asheville BuskerFest Pre-Party at The Crowbar

The Crowbar kicks off Asheville BuskerFest 2026 weekend with an official pre-party on Friday, May 1, featuring Nashville-based keyboardist and songwriter Candler Rice performing 9 PM–midnight.

Candler Rice is a touring session musician who has shared stages with Luke Combs, 49 Winchester, Priscilla Block, and more. His high-energy performance is the perfect launchpad for a weekend celebrating street performance culture across Asheville.

The Crowbar is a Premier Sponsor of BuskerFest, which runs May 2–3 at Pritchard Park and the River Arts District. Free admission to the festival; pre-party cover TBD at the door.

A crow-themed bar in the former Thirsty Monk space on Patton Ave, opened in 2025 by chef Michael Reppert and partner Brenden Wyand. Cocktails, local brews, snacks, pool, arcade games, karaoke, and free live music every Thursday and Saturday night at 9pm.

"Super cute spot to get cocktails in Asheville. The theme is on point — love the old decor. We stumbled in on a Thursday and caught a full live band, no cover, no pretense. Already planning our next visit."

The Crowbar

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Asheville BuskerFest Pre-Party at The Crowbar

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