Aspiring and practicing artists come to the Smokies-Blue Ridge area for inspiration. Asheville attracts artists like honey attracts bears, as evidenced by the sheer number of summer arts and crafts fairs in Asheville, NC. It is undoubtedly the perfect place to exhibit artistic works surrounded by natural beauty! Soak up our natural inspiration with a hike, either in one of our local parks or right on the property of Wildberry Lodge! Then, see how artists translate the outdoors into their works.
Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands
Dates: Jul 18-21 and Oct 17-20
Time: 10 am – 5 pm
Location: Harrah’s Cherokee Center, Asheville
The Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands occurs twice a year, in July and October. With over 75 years of experience, the Southern Highland Craft Guild is dedicated to presenting an outstanding show. Guild members are serious, vetted, and high-quality. About 200 new and established artists will fill the center with contemporary and traditional pieces.
These artists work in clay, metal, leather, wood, glass, fiber, and whatever else they may find. You will find art pieces made by metal- and woodworkers, sewers, glassblowers, potters, and painters.
Thousands will come to the area—spectators and other makers, professional and amateur—to support, learn, enjoy, and breathe some of that creative air.
One of the great things about events like these is that attendees get to hobnob with the artists. These aren’t galleries or trade shows with salespeople and marketers hawking goods. Here, you visit the attending artists, who can chat with you and provide demonstrations. They’ll share personal glimpses into their working lives, talk about their inspirations, and maybe inspire. The added benefit of this fair and the smaller community ones is that they are fairs—expect food, music, and additional entertainment.
Mt Mitchell Arts and Crafts Fair
Dates: Aug 2-3
Times: 9 am – 5 pm
Location: Burnsville Town Square
The Mt Mitchell Arts and Crafts Fair has over 60 years of history. Artists from the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia display one-of-a-kind creations. Wander through the booths while live music plays, and the scent of southern-style food wafts through the site.
Earlier in the year, the Toe River Studio Tours allows you to drive the countryside of Yancey and Mitchell counties to see the artists’ studios and creations. Choose from more than 80 different artists to visit.
Maggie Valley Arts and Crafts Shows
Dates: Jul 6-7, Aug 31-Sep 1
Location: Maggie Valley Festival Grounds
The Maggie Valley Arts and Crafts Shows are among the most popular events at the festival grounds. There are unique items at all price points—from homemade goat milk soaps to museum-quality artwork. Exhibitors are limited to 100, so there is plenty from which to choose!
Blue Ridge Heritage Arts and Crafts Show
Dates: August 10-11
Location: 49 Shelton St, Waynesville
The Blue Ridge Heritage Arts and Crafts Show occurs at the Shelton House Museum and Grounds, just a few blocks from downtown Waynesville. Exhibitors from all over the United States are accepted and displayed on the grounds, just outside the historic barn. Visitors can stroll through the museum, enjoy the grounds, and admire the creative genius of the exhibiting artists.
Leicester Studio Tour
Dates: August 17-18
Time: 10 am – 5 pm
Location: 2979 New Leicester Hwy, Leicester, and artists’ studios
The Leicester Studio Tour is a quick stop from Wildberry Lodge. It is always the third weekend in August and includes artists who are experts in various mediums. Textiles, glass, pottery, jewelry, and even brooms will be seen. Print a copy of the map and plan your itinerary to visit the artists included.
There are usually about 15 – 20 artists; some will set up in the town square, others at their studio. It is a fantastic opportunity to meet and chat with the artists in their habitat. The experience will make any piece you decide to purchase personal and memorable.
Take Time to Breathe
Trust us, these summer arts and crafts fairs in Asheville and Western North Carolina are just a tiny part of summertime here in the Smokies. Make sure you take some to plan so you can visit the Biltmore Estate or explore our outdoor wonders.
Wildberry Lodge’s location is just far enough away from Asheville’s frenetic urban pace that fresh mountain air surrounds you. That fresh air sparks the imagination and may make you more creative and appreciative. Giving yourself permission for pampering with a bed and breakfast experience may be just the release your mind needs to appreciate the art more.
Book your room early. Enjoy the studio tour and summer evenings with mountain breezes. Dedicate one or two days to art and a few more to adventure. Try hiking, rock climbing, or whitewater rafting. We’ll gladly help you dedicate your days in the area to activity or relaxing at the Lodge. Just ask!
Photo Credit: © CandyRetriever via canva.com
