Buncombe County Supports Local Festivals with Grants

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningFestivalsNews

Festive scene of Buncombe County local festivals featuring food, music, and art.

News Summary

Buncombe County has allocated $75,000 in grants to support 21 local festivals, including established events like the Asheville Bread Festival and newcomers. This initiative promotes community recovery and sustainability in local arts and culture, with marketing support to maximize attendance. Notable events receiving funds include the Blue Ridge Pride Festival, AVL Beer Week, and the Asheville Fringe Arts Festival, providing a diverse array of experiences for locals and visitors alike.

Buncombe County Lends a Hand to Local Festivals with $75,000 in Grants

Asheville, known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, is gearing up for an exciting season of festivals and events. Thanks to the generosity of the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, a total of $75,000 has been allocated in grants to support 21 local festivals and events. This is a thrilling way to uplift our community as it navigates through recovery efforts.

Supporting Local Traditions and New Adventures

This edition of the grant program puts a spotlight on a mix of established events and newcomers. Notably, the Asheville Bread Festival, which is celebrating its 17th year, has secured $1,500 to help continue its mission of bringing together bread enthusiasts. This event is a proud symbol of the local culinary scene and quite a treat for all attendees!

Launched in 2016, the Festivals & Cultural Events Support Fund aims to ensure the sustainability of local festivities while also promoting community recovery through enhanced tourism. Of the 21 recipients, approximately one-third are hosting inaugural events, showcasing Asheville’s dynamic spirit and welcoming nature.

Competitive Selection Process

A committee meticulously sifted through 34 applications to select which events would benefit from funding. This careful evaluation ensures that only the most deserving and impactful festivals receive this financial boost. Additionally, to maximize attendance and revenue, all grant recipients will receive marketing support from Explore Asheville.

A Feast of Festivals

The list of grant recipients reads like a who’s who of Asheville’s cultural landscape:

Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Farm Tour: $5,000
AVL Beer Week: $2,500
The Big Crafty: $2,500
Maker Faire Asheville: $1,500
Black Mountain Art in Bloom: $3,000
Blue Ridge Pride Festival: $5,000
Burial Beer Burnpile Harvest Festival: $5,000
Connect Beyond Festival: $5,000
Mountain Dance and Folk Festival/Shindig on the Green: $5,000
Montreat College Coda Music Festival: $1,000
Punch Bucket Literary Festival Asheville: $2,500
RADFest: $5,000
Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands: $2,500
The Cathedral of All Souls A Dickens Christmas: $2,500
Juneteenth Celebration: $5,000
Weaverville’s Music on Main: $5,000
YMI Cultural Center Goombay: $5,000

Get Ready for the Asheville Fringe Arts Festival

One of the most anticipated events this spring is the Asheville Fringe Arts Festival, which runs from March 16 to March 23. This year, the festival benefits from grants that allow for higher pay for its hard-working behind-the-scenes staff and talented performers. Attendees can look forward to an array of unique performances, including a puppet show and even a sci-fi opera! With both ticketed and free events, there’s something for everyone.

Weather Watch

As folks prepare to enjoy these festivities, they should keep an eye on the weather. Recent reports indicate blustery winds and the potential for snow showers, with temperatures dropping close to 30°F. With winds from the Northwest expected to reach 20-30 mph and gusts over 40 mph, dressing warmly will be essential for those heading out!

So mark those calendars, Asheville! This is your chance to enjoy the rich tapestry of culture, creativity, and community spirit that makes our city so special.