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Experience the Culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area is the regional steward of living Appalachian traditions in North Carolina. We honor our elders and invite new generations to explore music, craft, foodways, the outdoors, and the native wisdom that all have their place in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

Upcoming & Featured Programs

Doggett Gap Tiny Music & Heritage Festival hosted by Rare Bird Farm. 

Blue Ridge Craft Trails Gallery Exhibit at Mars Landing (Mars Hill) – July 2025

Blue Ridge Roots Revival: A Concert Series in Partnership with the Jazz Foundation of America – Summer/Fall 2025

Hurricane Helene Recovery: Updates and Resources

 

Doggett Gap Tiny Music & Heritage Festival

Blue Ridge Craft Trails Magazine

The Craft Trails Magazine is here! 

This brand-new magazine shines a spotlight on craft throughout Western North Carolina. Over 300 artists and galleries are listed to guide visitors and craft admirers along the Blue Ridge Craft Trails. Several stories hone in on people, areas, and events from each region of WNC: Far West, Central Mountains, High Country, and Foothills.

Featured Itinerary

Touring the Heart of Hendersonville

Downtown Hendersonville is a hub of activity for Henderson County. It is 25 miles south of Asheville and is considered its largest neighbor. Hendersonville appeals to many interests with a growing art scene, breweries and restaurants, and an old-fashioned main street lined with shops. Take a break from the outdoors and spend a day exploring this slice of urban life. 

Begin your journey here! 

Plan Your Blue Ridge Adventure

Don’t know where to start? Create the perfect getaway for your visit to the Blue Ridge Mountains – find fun events for the family, enjoy local music, or experience the natural beauty of the area. Choose a pre-planned trip itinerary or build your own from our library of destinations.

National Park Updates

The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area is closely tied to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the National Park Service. Check here for the latest updates regarding the parkway, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and other National Park Service sites. 

Blue Ridge Parkway – Current Conditions

Blue Ridge Parkway – New Releases

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

NPS Sites in North Carolina

National Park Service

Events Calendar

Discover events in all heritage categories: crafts, music, agriculture, Cherokee, and nature.

BONUS: Check out the Blue Ridge Music Trails calendar here for more music and dancing events.