Asheville Gears Up for a Vibrant Weekend of Music, Culture, and Community Celebrations

Asheville Welcomes an Exciting Weekend of Music and Culture!

Asheville is buzzing with excitement this weekend as the city rolls out a vibrant lineup of cultural events. From charming chamber music to the return of beloved festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Celebrating 25 Years of Pan Harmonia

First up, we have the Pan Harmonia chamber music company, celebrating its silver anniversary. Founded 25 years ago, this Asheville-based group has made a remarkable impact in the local music scene. Kicking off their milestone season, their first concert will take place on Friday, September 27, at Black Mountain Presbyterian Church and again on Sunday, September 29, at First Presbyterian Church of Asheville. The program, titled “Dances in Nature”, features delightful performances by co-founder Kate Steinbeck on flute and Jessica Schaeffer on harp.

The selections for this performance spotlight pieces by iconic composers like Leonard Bernstein, Alan Hovhaness, and Carl Nielsen. Audiences will be treated to a symphonic journey that reflects the rhythms of ocean creatures, waltzes, boleros, and salsa. Steinbeck emphasizes that the concert is designed to connect with the community on a deeper level.

After adapting during the COVID-19 pandemic, when performances transitioned to donation-based access, Pan Harmonia found new ways to reach out, even performing in prisons and homeless shelters through their Shining Light Project. Steinbeck describes their events as spaces where people intentionally come to listen, enhancing their experience of music.

Women to the Front Music Festival

As the weekend continues, let’s not forget the exciting Women to the Front (WTF) music festival at Salvage Station on September 29, from 12:30 p.m. to midnight. Highlighting the incredible talents of over 50 local female artists, this festival aims to celebrate women in music and provide a platform for their diverse voices.

Co-founder Melissa McKinney curated the lineup, featuring performances from artists like Queen Bee and the Honey Lovers and the WTF Funk Project. McKinney hopes that this festival not only showcases amazing talent but also challenges stereotypes about women in the music industry. Festival-goers can look forward to enjoying genres such as funk, blues, rock, and much more.

The Goombay Festival: A Celebration of Culture

Meanwhile, from September 27-29, Asheville’s annual Goombay Festival will take place in downtown, celebrating African American culture and the rich diversity of the African diaspora. This year’s theme, “Back to Our Roots”, invites families to enjoy food, art, and entertainment in the vibrant atmosphere of Pack Square Park.

Lake Monster Parade: Family Fun in Black Mountain

On September 28, the Lake Monster Parade brings families to Lake Tomahawk in Black Mountain for a joyous community event at 2 p.m.. Participants are encouraged to dress in their best aquatic-themed costumes and are promised a delightful parade led by the Brass Your Heart marching band. With imaginative puppets and a bigger, bolder floating monster, this event is sure to be a hit with the kids!

Mind Reading Show for a Unique Experience

And for those seeking intrigue, on September 27, Jonathan Pritchard will present his Asheville Mind Reading Show at Story Parlor at 7:30 p.m.. This engaging performance mixes comedy with mind reading, promising laughter and inspiration for all who attend.

A Rich Tapestry of Events Ahead

With so much happening in Asheville this weekend, there’s no shortage of events that cater to varied interests. Whether you’re drawn in by the captivating music of chamber performances, the empowering vibes of women musicians, the rich cultural celebrations, or the whimsical fun of parades, the city beautifully showcases its creativity. So grab a friend or family member, and get ready to soak in the artistic magic! Enjoy the festivities!