Summer Events in Buncombe County

Asheville Tourists Baseball Game

Take yourself to the ballpark! McCormick Field is the home field of the Asheville Tourists team  who have played Minor League Baseball under different monikers for over a century, with the earliest dating to 1897! Not only is it the third-oldest ballpark in Minor League Baseball, but McCormick Field also boasts a great selection of food and beverages, dollar dog nights, and fireworks Fridays. Get the biggest bang for your buck by cashing in on BOGO General Admission adult tickets with promotion code “INGLES” when you purchase online. Nothing says ‘summer’ quite like a hotdog and a home run, enjoy the games while they last!

Picking in the Park

Each Monday through July 29th, come down to Pritchard Park for the soul-stirring melodies of the Singer/Songwriter series, Pickin’ in the Park. Each week showcases talented local musicians, delivering heartfelt performances that resonate with the spirit of our community. Performances start at 6PM and provide an intimate and relaxed setting. Experience the rich musical heritage of Asheville as talented musicians share their stories and songs.

NC Mineral and Gem Festival

On August 1st through 4th, the town of Spruce Pine is hosting the annual NC Mineral and Gem Festival from 10am – 6pm. This festival has welcomed people from all over the world to shop for beautiful jewelry, gemstones, minerals, beads, crystals, fossils and more. You can tour an active mine or find the perfect engagement ring, special stone for your own setting, custom designed piece of jewelry, or a special crystal display for your home. With mineral dealers from across the country, there is merchandise to fit every budget. Celebrities have even been known to grace the festival, so don’t miss an opportunity to see the sparkle for yourself!

Cake at Rabbit Rabbit

Rabbit Rabbit is excited to host Cake on August 8th in a rain-or-shine concert. The event runs from 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM and is family friendly from ages 4 and up. If you want to see singer  John McCrea go the distance and Todd Roper thump in time, get tickets for this fun-filled evening. You already know what to wear – A short skirt and a looooong jacket! 

36th Annual Downtown After 5

The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to unveil the lineup for the 36th annual Downtown After 5, presented by Prestige Subaru. This year’s series promises an eclectic mix of music and themes, alongside collaborations with local nonprofit organizations, underscoring our commitment to community engagement and cultural enrichment. Downtown After 5 is more than just a concert series; it’s a community staple that celebrates the diversity and creativity of Asheville. Each event is free to the public, thanks to the generous support of our sponsors and partners. Food and beverage vendors will be on-site, with a portion of proceeds supporting the nonprofit partners associated with each event.

Downtown After 5 has become a staple of Asheville’s cultural calendar, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to experience live music in the heart of our vibrant city. Each event runs from 5pm – 9pm through September

August 16 | LEAF Downtown

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.

September 20 | Outdoor Rec Fest

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.