The Top Events in Black Mountain, NC
By Del Holston
Black Mountain, a small town only 15 miles east of Asheville, is home to a robust lineup of annual events. These popular festivals and gatherings showcase the lively culture of Black Mountain and attract big names in the world of art and music.
See our complete guide to Black Mountain, NC.
Here’s a list of the top events Black Mountain has to offer throughout the year in chronological order.
{Re}HAPPENING
April 8, 2023
Tap into the spirit of historic Black Mountain College with performances, installations and experiences from local and international artists. Black Mountain College was considered one of the most highly-respected and innovative experimental art colleges in the U.S. before it closed its doors in 1957. That legacy is carried on today throughout the area, including the Black Mountain Museum and Art Center which helps organize this event.
LEAF
May 11 - 14, 2023 AND October 19-22
Black Mountain has a profound history in the arts world, and LEAF, originally known as the Lake Eden Arts Festival, honors that tradition with two massive events each year. This family-friendly celebration of world culture spotlights music and art from diverse viewpoints. Taking place every May and October, LEAF offers you the opportunity to enjoy live music, dance and art demonstrations in a beautiful mountain setting.
Art in Bloom at Black Mountain Center for the Arts
May 26 – July 23, 2023
Featuring some of the best artists from galleries around the region, Art in Bloom at the Black Mountain Center of the Arts is a two-month celebration of flowers. Mediums range from glass to paintings to sculpture.
Sourwood Festival
August 12 - 13, 2023
This annual summertime festival is a celebration of gourmet sourwood honey and includes tastings and bee demos. There are more than 200 vendors selling arts, crafts, and food. This family-friendly festival has rides and face painting for the kids as well as live music and dancing in the streets.
Black Mountain Christmas Parade
Dec. 2, 2023
The holidays are one of the most festive and joyous times to be in Black Mountain. The Christmas parade, each year on a Saturday, travels through the streets of downtown and includes floats, performances, and a special visit from the one and only Santa Claus!
Deck the Trees
TBD
Each year local businesses in Black Mountain compete in a tree trimming competition called Deck the Trees. This Yuletide celebration is based at the Monte Vista Hotel, and the public is invited to come view and vote on their favorite trees during the month of December.
Photo credits: Both LEAF photos by David Simchock. Art in Bloom photo provided by Black Mountain Center for the Arts. Sourwood Festival and Deck the Trees photos by Jason Tarr.
