Events
Winter Window Display Contest
We’re thrilled to announce the return of the Winter Windows Display Competition to Downtown Asheville. Businesses can sign up to participate and locals can vote on their favorite window displays!
Shop Small, Win Big
Support Downtown Asheville businesses this holiday season with Shop Small, Win Big, a rewards program in partnership with Bank of America. From November 25 to December 22, every in-person purchase of $25 or more at participating businesses gives you the chance to win big.
Asheville Holiday Jamboree presented by Bojangles
Kick off the holiday season in Pack Square Park with performances, free photos with Santa, and a holiday market!
Halloween Block Party
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Asheville Downtown Association is organizing a Soft Opening of Downtown Businesses on October 19 and October 26. We invite all businesses to participate by displaying a balloon on their door, signaling their readiness to welcome back locals and visitors to Downtown.
This initiative aims to support our community's recovery and encourage residents and visitors to reconnect with the local businesses that form the heart of our Downtown area.
Additionally, we will host a Doors Open Downtown Halloween Block Party on Thursday, October 31, from 4 PM to 7 PM. This event will provide a safe space for families and individuals to engage with our local community while enjoying:
Trick-or-Treating at participating businesses
Kids' Activities, including tile painting at Fired Up
A Dog Costume Contest at Spicer Green Jewelers
Live Music and other activities
“We understand that the recent events have impacted our community deeply,” said Hayden Plemmons, Executive Director of the Asheville Downtown Association. “Our goal with these initiatives is to help facilitate healing and encourage support for our local businesses as we work toward recovery.”
Residents and visitors are encouraged to come together during this time and support our downtown businesses. For those interested in participating in the soft openings, simply display a balloon on your door.
Contact:
Hayden Plemmons
Executive Director
Asheville Downtown Association
Email: info@ashevilledowntown.org
Doors Open Downtown
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Asheville Downtown Association is organizing a Soft Opening of Downtown Businesses on October 19 and October 26. We invite all businesses to participate by displaying a balloon on their door, signaling their readiness to welcome back locals and visitors to Downtown.
This initiative aims to support our community's recovery and encourage residents and visitors to reconnect with the local businesses that form the heart of our Downtown area.
Additionally, we will host a Doors Open Downtown Halloween Block Party on Thursday, October 31, from 4 PM to 7 PM. This event will provide a safe space for families and individuals to engage with our local community while enjoying:
Trick-or-Treating at participating businesses
Kids' Activities, including tile painting at Fired Up
A Dog Costume Contest at Spicer Green Jewelers
Live Music and other activities
“We understand that the recent events have impacted our community deeply,” said Hayden Plemmons, Executive Director of the Asheville Downtown Association. “Our goal with these initiatives is to help facilitate healing and encourage support for our local businesses as we work toward recovery.”
Residents and visitors are encouraged to come together during this time and support our downtown businesses. For those interested in participating in the soft openings, simply display a balloon on your door.
Contact:
Hayden Plemmons
Executive Director
Asheville Downtown Association
Email: info@ashevilledowntown.org
Small Business Info Session: Recovery Update
We’re continuing our efforts to support businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene with another informative session. Join us on Thursday, October 24, at Mojo Coworking, where we’ll provide important updates on the resources available to help your business recover.
This session will include a conversation with the North Carolina Attorney General and NC Insurance Commissioner, along with other City and County leaders, who will discuss ongoing recovery efforts and available support. It’s a valuable opportunity to stay informed and ask any questions you may have regarding next steps in the recovery process.
In-person attendees must register online.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, October 24
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Livestream: Watch online at 828newsNOW.com
Community Partners
This session is made possible with the support of our community partners, including the Asheville Downtown Association, Go Local, Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, Arts AVL, Asheville Brewer’s Alliance, Explore Asheville, Asheville Independent Restaurants, Black Wall Street, Asheville Buncombe Hotel Association, Blue Ridge Pride, Thrive Asheville, and YMI Cultural Center.
We’re committed to ensuring you have the information and resources necessary to navigate this challenging time. We hope to see you there!
Candlelight Vigil
A message from Asheville City Council member Maggie Ullman:
I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting today. I suppose it’s difficult to stay cheery and positive all the time, and that’s okay. I think that’s to be expected as we navigate the feelings we all have about such profound loss and devastation that so many of our community members have experienced. This storm was more than just a weather event; it altered lives, reshaped our community, and left scars that will take time to heal.
Many have faced the unimaginable – losing homes, cherished possessions, and even, in some tragic cases, loved ones. The sheer force of the storm tested our resilience, and the days that followed revealed the extent of the destruction. For those who were displaced, the challenges have been immense, and the road to recovery will require not only time but also support from each of us.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, it has been heartening to see our community come together. Neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers mobilizing to assist with clean-up efforts, and local organizations stepping up to provide resources for those in need. This spirit of solidarity is what defines us as a community, and it will be that same spirit that leads us through the recovery process.
In line with that spirit of coming together, I’m asking you all to join me, Mayor Manheimer, my fellow council members, county commissioners, and our legislative delegation on Tuesday, October 22. We’ll be gathering in Pack Square Park for a candlelight vigil at 6:00 PM. We’ll join as one and remember. We’ll remember what was here before. We’ll remember when life seemed simpler somehow. We’ll remember and reaffirm how important it is to care for each other.
As we begin to rebuild, we must also remember the lessons that this storm has taught us. This is a challenging time for all of us, but I believe in the strength of our community. Together, we will honor those who have lost so much by demonstrating our unwavering resilience. Let us rebuild not only with bricks and mortar but also with compassion, understanding, and solidarity. Healing is not just about rebuilding homes; it’s about restoring a sense of normalcy, fostering connections, and supporting one another in every way possible.
Doors Open Downtown
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Asheville Downtown Association is organizing a Soft Opening of Downtown Businesses on October 19 and October 26. We invite all businesses to participate by displaying a balloon on their door, signaling their readiness to welcome back locals and visitors to Downtown.
This initiative aims to support our community's recovery and encourage residents and visitors to reconnect with the local businesses that form the heart of our Downtown area.
Additionally, we will host a Doors Open Downtown Halloween Block Party on Thursday, October 31, from 4 PM to 7 PM. This event will provide a safe space for families and individuals to engage with our local community while enjoying:
Trick-or-Treating at participating businesses
Kids' Activities, including tile painting at Fired Up
A Dog Costume Contest at Spicer Green Jewelers
Live Music and other activities
“We understand that the recent events have impacted our community deeply,” said Hayden Plemmons, Executive Director of the Asheville Downtown Association. “Our goal with these initiatives is to help facilitate healing and encourage support for our local businesses as we work toward recovery.”
Residents and visitors are encouraged to come together during this time and support our downtown businesses. For those interested in participating in the soft openings, simply display a balloon on your door.
Contact:
Hayden Plemmons
Executive Director
Asheville Downtown Association
Email: info@ashevilledowntown.org
Small Business Info Session: Navigating Reopening
Small Business Info Session: Navigating Reopening
Join us for the next session in our small business recovery series, Navigating Reopening, where we'll focus on the crucial steps needed to reopen your business once water is restored. This session will provide essential guidance on how to ensure your business is ready to welcome customers back, and what to do if you're still facing challenges with water access.
We'll be hearing from key local experts, including representatives from the Buncombe County Health Department, City of Asheville Economic Development, and the Asheville Fire Department, who will share critical information on health and safety standards, economic support, and reopening procedures.
Additionally, local organizations working to activate our streets and bring customers back to Downtown Asheville will offer insights on how they’re mobilizing to reinvigorate the city and attract foot traffic to your businesses.
Whether your water is back on or you're still waiting, this session will give you the tools and resources you need to move forward. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest updates and support as we continue to rebuild together.
Supporting Organizations
Asheville Downtown Association
Go Local
Arts AVL
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce
Asheville Brewer’s Alliance
Asheville Buncombe County Hotel Association
Asheville Independent Restaurants
Blue Ridge Pride
Black Wall Street
Explore Asheville
THRIVE Asheville
Can't make it to the event? Join the live stream on the Asheville Downtown Association Facebook Page.
Special thanks to Mojo Coworking and Bear’s BBQ for making this event possible.
Small Business Info Session: Financial Recovery
Join us for an informative session designed to help small businesses navigate the recovery landscape with valuable financial resources and support. This event will feature key speakers from various organizations that provide funding, guidance, and essential services tailored to aid local businesses in overcoming financial challenges related to Hurricane Helene.
Due to limited capacity, this event is open to business owners only. We ask that just one representative from each business register to attend.
Canceled: Asheville Oktoberfest
Join us for a festive gathering featuring 20+ local breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries. Indulge in delicious German-style cuisine from local food vendors and dance along to German tunes.
Downtown After 5
Closing out the series is September’s Outdoor Rec Fest with Riverlink. Featuring headliner Oliver Hazard and opener Paul McDonald. Celebrate Asheville's outdoor lifestyle by engaging with our outdoor recreation partners and vendors.
Boomtown Arts & Heritage FestAVL
This festival will be a vibrant tribute to Asheville's rich history, arts, and culture, showcasing an eclectic mix of performances, trail tours, and community-driven activities. From the city's storied past as a turn-of-the-century boomtown to its current status as a hub of creativity and innovation, the festival aims to celebrate and preserve the unique heritage that makes Asheville a beloved destination.
Downtown After 5
In collaboration with LEAF Global Arts, we're excited to bring back LEAF Downtown at Downtown After 5. Tito Puente Jr. will be headlining the event, with the LEAF Kono Band opening.
Downtown After 5
The official kick-off to AVL Fest, Asheville FM brings to the stage Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast as headliners, with The Greenliners opening.
Independence Day Block Party
Join us for a day of free family fun with the Amazing Air Dogs, live music, local vendors, and, of course, a fireworks show!
Pack Square Artisan Market
Downtown on Fridays, discover a delightful assortment of quality handmade goods from skilled makers at Asheville's weekly street party!
Downtown After 5
In a special collaboration with the MLK Foundation, we celebrate Juneteenth with the soulful Sierra Green & the Giants headlining and Lyric setting the mood.
Pritchard Park Culture & Arts Series
Join us for 10 weeks of free programming featuring a vibrant mix of arts, culture, and education. From live performances to interactive activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy Tuesday through Friday.