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Event Spotlight
🪕 A new fest hits the streets
Lyle Rickards, a Mast General regular, will take the Pritchard Park stage | Photo by Thomas Way
The inaugural Asheville BuskerFest is putting the city’s street performers in the spotlight.
The May 2-3 festival, organized by former AVLFest cofounder Bryan Matheny, celebrates the impromptu musical magic that soundtracks a walk through downtown Asheville, with 30+ acts popping up from Pritchard Park to the RAD.
The event coincides with the River Arts District Artists’ weekend art stroll, bringing vendors into the festivities.
It’s free to wander, but don’t forget to tip your buskers.
Events
Events
Friday, April 24
Asheville Herb Festival | Friday, April 24-Sunday, April 26 | Times vary | WNC Ag Center | Free+
Yesterday, April 23, the NDCOT broke ground on the largest section of the $1.8 billion I-26 Connector project. The long-awaited effort will build a new 7-mile freeway linking Interstate 240 at the I-26/I-40/I-240 interchange, with the full project expected to wrap up in fall 2031.
Civic
Buncombe County Commissioners approved a unified fire tax district, consolidating 20 fire districts across unincorporated areas into one. The move aims to make fire protection more equitable for residents and more equitable in terms of funding.
Concert
Alt-rockstar Beck is stopping by Thomas Wolfe Auditorium on Wednesday, Oct. 28 on his “Ride Lonesome Tour.” Tickets go on sale today, April 24 at 10 a.m.
Biz
Ahead of Ingles Markets’ shareholder meeting, a board seat challenge from a Sackler-linked investor is drawing attention, with proxy advisors weighing in. The discussion focuses on performance, real estate strategy, and governance. The April 30 vote could influence the grocer’s direction. Catch up on the context. (Asheville Citizen-Times)
Regional
Henderson County is in its worst drought in at least a decade, threatening local farmers’ apple, vegetable, and grain crops. A late March freeze already wiped out an estimated 40% of the county’s apple harvest, and farmers say they need 8 to 13 inches of rain to avoid further losses. (Hendersonville Times-News)
Weather
WNC could see some minor relief this weekend as a cold front moves through, expected to bring a half-inch or less of rainfall. However, much longer-term rain patterns are needed to improve drought and wildfire conditions. (WLOS)
Health
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is set for Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. across NC. Residents can safely and anonymously drop off unused or expired medications at collection sites statewide.
Job
This local biz has been serving the Carolinas for more than 100 years — and they’re still growing. Explore 15+ open positions.*
Finance
If your budget feels tighter than it used to, it might be time to rethink a few everyday expenses. Read this list of 19 money-saving strategies and create a little breathing room in your budget.*
Editor Grace here. I’m not exaggerating in the slightest when I say that my jaw dropped when this beauty from Good Hot Fish hit my Instagram feed.
Not only was I ecstatic to learn that a Grillo’s Pickles x PBR collab exists, but that Good Hot Fish has turned it up to 11 by dressing it up with a “chamoy-esque” rim made with persimmons and hibiscus.
This drink is 100% in my future and looks too good not to share.
Mother’s Day is quickly approaching. Shop some of our favorite unique gifts for the occasion at five different price points.
💖 Under 10: These mini vase fridge magnets spell out “mom” + include decorative blooms that can last a lifetime.
💖 Under $25: This magnolia bloom candle features hand-crafted petals and leaves + doubles as a decorative accent.
💖 Under $50: Let them know how much they mean to you with this embroidered mom of the year baseball hat.
💖 Under $75: Never let their coffee or tea go cold thanks to this sleek mug warmer with real-time temperature control.
💖 Under $100: Spark laughter with this charming thou shall not try me needlepoint pillow.
One more very exciting show for your calendar. Breakout indie rock band Geese will play at Hellbender, The Orange Peel’s new outdoor venue, on Wednesday, Sept. 30. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, April 29. I’ll see ya there.
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