Supporting Asheville and Western North Carolina’s Recovery from Hurricane Helene through Music

Hurricane Helene may have passed, but its impact on Asheville and the surrounding regions of Western North Carolina is still felt deeply. Communities are working tirelessly to recover, and one of the most vibrant ways to support this recovery is through music. Attending upcoming concerts and music events not only provides entertainment but also contributes to the local economy and fosters community spirit. Here’s how you can get involved and help Asheville and Western North Carolina bounce back from the storm.

The Power of Music in Recovery

Music has a unique ability to uplift spirits, foster connections, and galvanize communities. In times of crisis, local music scenes can become beacons of hope. They create spaces where people can come together, share experiences, and promote healing. By attending concerts in Asheville and surrounding areas, you are not just enjoying live performances; you are investing in the resilience of the community.

Upcoming Concerts: A Chance to Make a Difference

Asheville is renowned for its vibrant music scene, featuring genres ranging from bluegrass and folk to rock and jazz; and there are plenty of venues in surrounding Western North Carolina that host regular musical events worth your time and money. Below are a few to consider from now until the end of the year. And you don’t have to bust the bank to support Western NC relief efforts by attending a show if you take advantage of these ways to decrease the online ticket price (use this link by midnight on Oct 24 to get 22.5% off!)

Music Festivals: Though several have been cancelled after the devastation of Hurricane Helene, there are still a number of Western North Carolina music festivals that are carrying on, and most of these are donating a significant proportion of fundings to the relief effort. Here are a few to get you started:

2024 Flamenco Music Festival, October 19-27 (Asheville)
Wild West Festival, October 28-30 (Black Mountain
Forks of the River Fly Fishing and Music Festival, November 2 (Brevard)
Highlands Food and Wine Festival, November 7-10 (Highlands)
Peachy King Southern Soul Music Festival, November 8 (Shelby)
Balsam Range Art of Music Festival, December 6-7 (Lake Junaluska/Waynesville)

Concerts at The Orange Peel: One of Asheville's most iconic venues, The Orange Peel, is known for hosting a range of talented artists. Though many upcoming concerts have been cancelled due to the hurricane, the following are just a few shows that are still happening this year (doors open at 7 PM unless stated otherwise.). Note that this list doesn’t include heavy metal or rap shows, so check out the Orange Peel site if these are your jam.

Drive By Truckers , November 7 & 8
Morgan Wade, November 10
Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway, November 13 (Doors 8 PM)
Yoke Lore, November 14
Mipso, November 20
Animals as Leaders, November 22
Shane Smith and the Saints, November 24
Ocie Elliot, November 27
Sam Barber, December 5
The Wood Brothers, December 6 & 7
Futurebirds, December 19
MJ Lenderman and the Wind, December 20
RJD2, December 31 (Doors 8PM)

Local Brewery Concerts: Many breweries in Western North Carolina regularly host live music events. These venues often partner with local charities to donate a portion of their sales to recovery efforts. Enjoying a craft beer while listening to live music is a fantastic way to support both local artists and relief initiatives. Below are a few venues that are back in operation. Click on their names to view their events listings.

Jack of the Wood Brewery (Asheville)
Sideways Farm and Brewery (Etowah)
Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery (Farmville)
Oklawaha Brewing Company (Hendersonville)
Big Pillow Brewing (Hot Springs)
Trailside Brewing Company (Hendersonville)
French Broad River Brewery (Asheville)
Iron Key Brewing Company (Columbus) - Next Free Music event is on November 13.
Frog Level Brewing Company (Waynesville, NC)

The Economic Impact of Music

The music industry supports not only musicians but also a variety of related businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and transportation services. By attending concerts, you are playing a vital role in revitalizing the local economy.

Volunteering and Supporting Local Artists

In addition to attending concerts, consider volunteering your time at local music events. Many organizations need assistance with planning and executing benefit shows. Volunteering not only helps the events run smoothly but also connects you with local artists and community leaders who share a passion for recovery.

Furthermore, purchasing merchandise from local artists, whether it’s CDs, vinyl, or branded gear, provides essential financial support. Many musicians are directly impacted by the hurricane, and your purchase can make a significant difference in their livelihoods.

Spreading the Word

Finally, help spread the word about upcoming concerts and events through your social media channels. The more people who are aware of these opportunities to support local recovery efforts, the greater the impact. Create a buzz around concerts and encourage friends and family to join you in supporting the community.