News

Register for the State of Downtown

The Asheville Downtown Association proudly announces the much-anticipated annual State of Downtown presented by the Grove Arcade Public Market Foundation, set to take place on Tuesday, March 19, Burial / Eulogy in the South Slope. This engaging and informative gathering kicks off with lunch at Burial from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the […]

Register for Candidate Cafe | A Night with City Council Candidates in Downtown Asheville

Candidate Cafe Tuesday, February 20 | 5:30pm – 7pm Citizen Vinyl The Asheville Downtown Association, in partnership with Dewey Property Advisors, is proud to present a unique opportunity for the community ahead of the March 5 primary election: an engaging discussion with candidates running for Asheville City Council. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Citizen […]

Interested in becoming an event Sponsor?

Elevate your brand and support our vibrant community! Interested in becoming a sponsor for our fantastic events? Contact Marci Ingram at marci@ashevilledowntown.org today. Join us in making a lasting impact at our exciting, large, community events. Let’s partner for success!

Sign Up to Volunteer for our 2024 Events!

Join us in making 2024 unforgettable! We’re on the lookout for passionate volunteers to help us create amazing memories at our upcoming events season. Whether you’re a pro or new to volunteering, your enthusiasm is what we need. If interested, email marci@ashevilledowntown.org to join our amazing list of volunteers.

Now accepting craft and ware vendors for ALL 2024 Events

The ADA is thrilled to announce that we’re now accepting applications from artists, craftsmen, and and ware vendors for ALL of our 2024 events. If you’ve got unique wares to showcase, we want YOU! Join us in bringing art and creativity to the heart of our events. Application Link below: https://form.jotform.com/240216553846154

Participate in the 2024 Downtown Asheville Stakeholder Survey Today!

Your valued insights are essential to us, and we extend a warm invitation for you to participate in the 2024 Downtown Asheville Stakeholder Survey. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of Downtown. Survey Details: Survey Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/avldtn24 Deadline: February 9, 2024 Prize Drawings: Each week, one respondent will win a $25 gift card to a Downtown Business as a token […]
Buncombe County Logo

Share Your Feedback with on Use of Opioid Settlement Funds

Buncombe County wants to hear from residents on how it should prioritize funding that will come from the Opioid Litigation Settlement. The County is set to receive $16 million over 18 years. Communities can use these dollars to help attain outcomes for residents through treatment, recovery, harm reduction, and other life-saving programs and services. Pharmaceutical […]
Pack Square Visioning

Pack Square Visioning

The City of Asheville and Buncombe County are hosting public feedback sessions for residents to share their thoughts on how to make Pack Square Plaza a welcoming place for all in our community. There are many opportunities to share your thoughts including in-person focus groups, virtual meetings and an online feedback form. Learn more here. 
Downtown Holiday Windows Walking Tour

Downtown Holiday Windows Walking Tour

Downtown businesses have decorated their windows for the holiday season. Use the map linked here to take.a walking tour while shopping for the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list. Thanks for supporting small local businesses.  
Holiday Parade Logo

Entries for the Asheville Holiday Parade

  Below is a list in alphabetical order of entries for the 76th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade, presented by Bojangles, on Saturday, November 19. The parade begins at 11am. More info here.   Business/Group Name 14th Weather Squadron 106.9 The Light 828 Bail Bonds A New Hope Home Care AARP, Mountain Region, NC AC Reynolds […]

Katie Button & Meherwan Irani to Serve as Grand Marshals for Asheville Holiday Parade

Local chefs, Katie Button and Meherwan Irani, to serve as Grand Marshals for the 76th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade, presented by Bojangles Applications now available. The 76th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade, presented by Bojangles, rolls, dances and marches through Downtown Asheville on Saturday, November 19. Local chefs and restaurateurs, Katie Button and Meherwan Irani, will […]
Asheville Downtown Association Logo

Updates on Homelessness, Safety Initiatives

We understand that downtown, and our community as a whole, are facing significant overlapping challenges including Covid recovery, a 21% increase in people who are unsheltered, substance use and mental health crisis, staffing shortages in multiple City and County departments and others. We have shared recent survey data and concerns from our members, downtown businesses […]

2022 Asheville Holiday Parade Applications Available

Applications for the 76th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade, presented by Bojangles, are now available. The parade rolls, dances and marches through Downtown Asheville on Saturday, November 19 beginning at 11am. Before applying please read the detailed rules and information for participants here. The parade only runs smoothly if everyone follows the rules and direction from […]
City of Asheville Logo

Understanding Unsheltered Homelessness-Opportunity for Input

Homelessness has increased in Asheville since the Covid-19 pandemic, with recent numbers showing a 21% increase in unsheltered people in our community. The City of Asheville, Buncombe County and the Dogwood Health Trust partnered to bring in a consultant from the National Alliance to End Homelessness.  The project has two phases:  Phase One – a […]
Rankin Ave Substation Map

Rankin Avenue Substation Public Meetings Scheduled for August 11 and 22

Duke Energy and the City of Asheville are exploring the possibility of replacing the existing downtown substation on Rankin Avenue (behind Harrah’s Cherokee Center), with a modern substation across the street. Duke will host two public meetings on Thursday, August 11 at 9am and again at 4pm, as well as a virtual option on Monday, August […]
City of Asheville Logo

Carter, Anne, Patton Stormwater Project (CAPS)

The City of Asheville is undergoing a project to improve stormwater drainage in the Carter, Anne and Patton area of Downtown Asheville. Moderate to heavy rain storms create localized flooding near this area. A new stormwater drainage system will be installed within the public right-of-way that extends the existing stormwater system on Carter Street down […]
July 4 logo

Ingles Independence Day Celebration July 4

The Ingles Independence Day Celebration returns to Downtown Asheville’s Pack Square Park on Monday, July 4. This event is produced by the Asheville Downtown Association (ADA) in partnership with the City of Asheville. The free event features The Ultimate Air Dogs, live music, local food and craft beverages, and a fireworks extravaganza. ULTIMATE AIR DOGS […]
Voting logo

Mayor and City Council Candidate Questionnaire Responses

We asked candidates for City of Asheville Mayor and Asheville City Council to answer questions regarding the top issues identified by downtown businesses and residents. We focused on Mayor and Council for the primary because their actions tend to most impact downtown. In the future, we hope to expand our questionnaire and forums to include […]
Downtown After 5 Logo

Downtown After 5, presented by Prestige Subaru, 2022 Lineup

The 34th season of Downtown After 5, presented by Prestige Subaru, returns Fridays to downtown Asheville the 3rd Friday of the month from April to September. DTA5 is held on North Lexington Avenue and events are free and open to the public. 2022 Lineup April 15 The Fritz The Fritz is a soul-driven psychedelic funk […]
Asheville Downtown Association Logo

The Importance of Downtown

Downtowns are special because they’re the only neighborhood that is shared by everyone in a community. A strong and healthy downtown stimulates economic growth and generates significant revenue for local governments. The Asheville Downtown Association is embarking on a project to showcase why our downtown is important. The intention of the project is to make […]
State of Downtown Luncheon Graphic

Watch Video of our State of Downtown Luncheon

If you were unable to attend our State of Downtown Luncheon, you can watch a recording of the event here. Thanks to First Bank and Harrah’s Cherokee Center for supporting the luncheon.
survey

2022 Issues Survey Results

We recently surveyed our members and downtown businesses on issues related to downtown. We had 101 responses. This survey was focused on downtown businesses, but we hope to partner with other organizations to perform a downtown resident survey later this year. Click here to review the results.
First Bank Logo

State of Downtown Luncheon, presented by First Bank, Tuesday, March 8

Note: The State of Downtown Luncheon is sold out. We have limited the number of tickets to allow for social distancing, so we will not be able to accommodate additional guests. We are planning to record the presentation for later viewing. The Asheville Downtown Association will host its annual State of Downtown Luncheon, presented by […]
Wristband Partner Image

Nonprofit Wristband Partner Applications for 2022 Events Available Now

Each year, the Asheville Downtown Association selects local nonprofits to sell wristbands at its events. The nonprofit receives a grant of $2,000 and has the opportunity to display marketing materials to share their program of work with large audiences. Nonprofits provide 30 volunteers over 18 to work in two shifts between 5 and 9:30pm. Volunteers […]
Food Vendor Image

Food Vendor Applications for 2022 Events Available Now

The Asheville Downtown Association is now accepting applications for food vending at our 2022 events. These include Downtown After 5, the Independence Day Celebration and Asheville Oktoberfest. Learn more about requirements and fees here. Applications are due Friday, February 25 at 5pm. Access the application here.
Survey

2022 Downtown Issues Survey Available Now

Twice each year, we survey our membership and the downtown business community. Surveys are an important tool in gathering feedback from our members. The results will be presented at our State of Downtown Luncheon on Tuesday, March 8. The survey takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. This survey is focused on downtown businesses. We want […]
Asheville Downtown Association Logo

ADA Elects New Board and Executive Committee Members

The Asheville Downtown Association (ADA) today announced the election of new board and executive committee members. Board members support the ADA’s mission to be a leader and advocate for the vitality of Downtown Asheville. Bill Durr (Ward & Smith) will serve as president of the board of directors with Beth Lane (McGuire Wood & Bissette) […]
Downtown After 5 Stage and Crowd

We’re Hiring an Event Manager

The Asheville Downtown Association is seeking an Event Manager. Events include: Downtown After 5, the Pritchard Park Summer Series, the Independence Day Celebration, Speaker Series, Oktoberfest, Annual Membership Meeting, State of Downtown Luncheon, the Asheville Holiday Parade and others as assigned. Event Management • Submit all necessary permit applications and relevant supplemental documents in a […]

Downtown Holiday Windows Walking Tour & Contest Winners

Downtown businesses have decked out their windows for the Holiday Season. Our Holiday Windows Walking Tour is the perfect way to see the beautifully decorated windows while exploring downtown. Several of the participating businesses also entered our Holiday Windows Contest. Winners are: Best in Show: Madam Clutterbuckets Neurodiverse Universe WOW Factor: Dog & Pony Show […]
Buncombe County Logo

Buncombe County Extends Indoor Mask Mandate to Jan. 5

Press release from Buncombe County: The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners has extended the county-wide face covering requirement for all indoor public spaces through Jan. 5, 2022 at noon. The indoor mask requirement also extends to Asheville, Biltmore Forest, Black Mountain, Montreat, Weaverville, and Woodfin. In Buncombe County, COVID-19 case rates continue to be high, […]

Lineup Order for the Asheville Holiday Parade

  The Asheville Holiday Parade, presented by Bojangles of WNC, is Saturday, November 20 throughout Downtown Asheville. The parade begins at 11am. Posted below is the lineup order for the parade. The Asheville Holiday Parade is produced by the Asheville Downtown Association, in partnership with the City of Asheville. Sponsors and Partners make the Parade […]
Santa Claus

2021 Asheville Holiday Parade Applications Available

To apply for entry in the parade, first read the 2021 rules here. It’s imperative that you carefully read the rules and regulations prior to filling out your application. Find the 2021 parade application here. Please be creative, parade entries must be entertaining and family friendly, not all entries will be accepted. Applications and payment […]
survey

Survey Results Show Majority of ADA Members Support an Indoor Mask Mandate

The Asheville Downtown Association sent out a brief survey on a potential mask mandate to its business and nonprofit members (approximately 350). We had 87 responses over the roughly two days the survey was open. A few responses are from businesses who are not members of the ADA. The survey may have been forwarded to […]
Asheville Urban Trail

Urban Trail Stations Rededicated

On Tuesday, June 29, the Urban Trail Committee will celebrate the rededication of three of the trail’s stations. The Urban Trail is a collection of 30 works of public art throughout downtown commemorating history, culture and architecture. Shopping Daze: The marker was reinstalled following the Haywood Streetscape project in 2020. A plaque honoring the contributions […]
Downtown After 5 Logo

Downtown After 5 2021 Lineup Features All Local Bands

The 33rd season of Downtown After 5, presented by Prestige Subaru, kicks off Friday, July 16 from 5-9pm. For 2021, Downtown After 5 will take place the 3rd Friday of the month July – September and is held on North Lexington Avenue. Events are free and open to the public. 2021 Lineup July 16 Acoustic […]
ADA Foundation Logo

ADA Foundation Funds Micro-Grants for BIPOC-owned Downtown Businesses

Seven BIPOC-owned, downtown businesses receive grant awards through Asheville Downtown Association Foundation and Mountain BizWorks partnership The Asheville Downtown Association Foundation (ADAF) in partnership with Mountain BizWorks has awarded a total of $17,500 to seven BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) -owned, downtown Asheville businesses as part of the Multicultural Catalyst Fund Micro-Grant Program. […]
Survey

Surveys on How to Prioritize Federal Covid-Relief Funding

Buncombe County and the City of Asheville will receive significant funding from the American Rescue Plan for Covid-relief. The County expects $51 million and the City $26 million. It’s vital that downtown business provide feedback on their needs and priorities. While the specific guidance on how funding can be spent has not been released, it […]

NC Announces Timeline for Lifting Covid-related Restrictions

NC Governor Roy Cooper today announced that he plans to lift restrictions on capacity, social distancing and mass gatherings by June 1. The mask mandate will remain in place until 2/3s of adults in the state are vaccinated. More from WBTV here.
City of Asheville Logo

Engage in the City of Asheville’s Budget Process

From the City of Asheville: The City of Asheville wants to hear from you!  City staff have approached the budget process differently this year by reviewing existing services with a focus on members of our community that experience inequity. Through our internal department work, and from what heard through Reimagining Public Safety several opportunities for […]
survey

State of Downtown Update – Recording and Survey Results

On Tuesday, Feb. 23, the Asheville Downtown Association hosted its annual State of Downtown Update in a virtual format. The event was presented by First Bank, with additional support from Ward and Smith, P.A. 2021 ADA Board President Tommy Dennison and Executive Director Meghan Rogers provided an update on the association’s program of work and […]

Arts Impact Survey Shows $23.1M in Local Losses

February 1, 2021 – Asheville, N.C. | The Asheville Area Arts Council’s most recent arts impact survey further highlights the devastating impact of COVID on the Buncombe County creative sector.  Findings show $23.1 million in lost revenue since March 2020, with 16 businesses likely to close in the next 3 months. According to Americans for […]
Asheville Downtown Association Logo

Virtual State of Downtown Update Tuesday, Feb. 23

The Asheville Downtown Association will host its annual State of Downtown Update virtually this year. The event, presented by First Bank with support from Ward and Smith, P.A., is Tuesday, February 23 beginning at noon. The update will include a review of 2020 initiatives, as well as priority areas and programs for 2021, 2021 ADA […]
828 Go Local Challenge

828 Go Local Challenge

We’re partnering with Asheville Grown, Just Economics and the City of Asheville to launch the 828 Go Local Challenge. We know our small, local businesses need our support more than ever right now. Here’s a fun way to support them, and you may win a fun prize. It’s become an Asheville tradition to celebrate Love […]
Asheville Wellness Tours Logo

Asheville Wellness Tours Offers Virtual and Hybrid Retreats

From ADA Member Asheville Wellness Tours: Amid new restrictions on local businesses’ operating abilities and continued surges in COVID 19 cases across Western NC, we at Asheville Wellness Tours would like to introduce… ​Virtual/Hybrid Retreats​! We’ve adapted and added extensively to our local tour offerings, and are ​entering 2021 with new and improved “COVID Edition” […]
Buncombe County Logo

Rent, Mortgage, & Utility Assistance Available for Covid-19 Relief

PRESS RELEASE from Buncombe County: Rent, Mortgage, & Utility Assistance Available: Commissioners Accept $900K in Federal Aid for COVID-19 Relief More funding for those in need of pandemic-related assistance will soon be available. On Jan. 5, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved accepting $900,000 of federal funding via a Community Development Block Grant […]
Family Forward NC Logo

Family Forward NC Rapid Response Program Webinar Jan. 25

Family Forward NC COVID-19 Rapid Response Program provides no cost access to HR experts to assist employers in identifying industry-appropriate, family-friendly workplace benefits during re-opening/retooling. These supports help employers and working parents build resilience during and after the COVID crisis. Rapid Response focuses specifically on small business, manufacturing and hospitality industries, but recommendations and tools […]
Buncombe County Logo

Buncombe County & City of Asheville Add New Covid-19 Restrictions, Beginning Jan. 2

On December 23, Buncombe County and City of Asheville officials announced tighter restrictions to help slow the spread of Covid-19 in our community. Key points: Buncombe County, City of Asheville, and Town of Montreat will move to add more stringent measures in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. The new local order signed on Dec. 23, 2020, reduces the capacity […]

COVID-friendly Meet & Greet Santa and Coat Drive

ASHEVILLE, NC — Go Mini’s is excited to announce its first installment of the #OnTheGoMini event series with a COVID-friendly Meet & Greet Santa and Coat Drive, brought to you by Go Mini’s Portable Storage in partnership with Stephan Pruitt Photography, Eblen Charities, Harrah’s Cherokee Center, Appalachian Santa, and Asheville Strong. Asheville, it’s been a […]

Downtown Holiday Windows Contest Winners Announced

The Asheville Downtown Association today announced the winners of its annual Downtown Holiday Windows Contest. Judge’s scored on creativity, originality, interpretation of theme, use of merchandise and the WOW factor. The theme is “Home for the Holidays,” fitting for 2020. “Even in a challenging year, downtown businesses have given us beautifully decorated windows,” said Meghan […]

Holiday Family Food Box Giveaway Sat. Dec. 12

WWE Star Titus O’Neil Gives a Little Extra “Muscle” to Help Asheville Families at Holiday Family Food Box Giveaway this Saturday Asheville, NC (12/9/20) – In a year of many “firsts” and “new norms,” there is one certainty: the compassion and care for our community continues to forge wonderful new partnerships. This Saturday, one of […]

NC Phase 3-New Restrictions

Governor Roy Cooper announced new Covid-19 restrictions on Dec. 8. These include begin Dec. 11 and include: Statewide Stay at Home Order from 10pm – 5am with exceptions for essential workers and essential travel Onsite alcohol sales must end at 9pm, restaurants to close for dine-in service at 10pm, but may continue to serve takeout […]
Buncombe County Logo

Buncombe County & City of Asheville Announce Additional Covid-19 Requirements for Businesses

County and City leaders held a press conference today (Nov. 25) to announce new requirements for businesses, as well as plans for enforcement. They issued a Local Emergency Declaration outlining these new requirements. All businesses must post their Maximum Emergency Capacity and signage regarding face coverings at public entrances. Signage resources can be found here. […]
City of Asheville Logo

Feedback Needed on Noise Ordinance Revisions

City staff has released revisions to the Noise Ordinance and they’d like your feedback. The revision process began in 2019 and included significant community engagement. Changes in a nutshell include: • Establishes objective decibel standards and clarifies sound measurement criteria for commercial and industrial noise sources. • Restricts construction in all districts to 7 a.m. […]

Tribute Properties is requesting Artist Qualifications for a mural project at the proposed development, The Ironwood, in downtown Asheville

Tribute Companies is requesting Artist Qualifications for a permanent art mural(s) for their mixed-use development, The Ironwood, located on Asheland/Coxe Avenue in downtown Asheville. Tribute Companies seeks an artist/artist team to create a permanent art mural(s) for their mixed-use development, The Ironwood, located on Asheland/Coxe Avenue just south of downtown Asheville’s Central Business District. The […]

Shop Small Y’all, Small Business Week Nov. 21-28

Shop Small Y’all! It’s not just Small Business Saturday, it’s Small Business Week! Select downtown businesses offering special deals. This allows shoppers to spread their shopping out over several days to allow for social distancing. Some businesses are also hosting raffles with prizes including gift cards to downtown businesses. Many businesses offer online or appointment […]
Buncombe County Logo

Covid-19 Information for Buncombe County

For the latest information on the Covid-19 pandemic in Buncombe County, please visit this link. You’ll find information on case counts, safety requirements and guidelines, testing sites and community resources.. North Carolina and Buncombe County have instated mask/face covering requirements when visiting any business or when in public. Follow the three Ws – wear  your […]

Master Concept Plan for Haywood/Page Approved by Council

The master concept plan for the City-owned properties at 68 Haywood Street was adopted by Asheville City Council on Oct. 27. The plan closely follows the work of the Visioning Committee, appointed by City Council in 2016, and also after a series of public engagement sessions earlier this year.  The master plan is the next […]

Haywood Street Businesses Open During Construction

The Haywood Streetscape Project is getting closer to completion. The project began early this year and includes water, sewer and stormwater work; new and widened sidewalks; street amenities including trees, benches and bike racks; and milling and paving of Haywood Street.  Businesses along Haywood Street remain open during construction. The Asheville Downtown Association, in partnership […]

AVL Shares Space Extended to Jan. 3

The City of Asheville announced that AVL Shares Space is extended until Jan. 3. AVL Shares Space is an initiative to allow businesses to expand into in order to increase their capacity during the Covid-19 pandemic.    The initiative includes:  Curbside pickup zones Expansion on private property Expansion on areas of adjacent public sidewalk Expansion […]
Asheville Holiday Parade Logo

2020 Asheville Holiday Parade Canceled

The Asheville Holiday Parade is canceled for 2020 due to public health concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.  The decision to cancel the parade was based on North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper’s September 30th announcement moving North Carolina into Phase 3. Phase 3 continues to limit outdoor gatherings to 50 people and provides capacity limits for […]
Voting logo

City Council Candidates Answer Questions from ADA

The Asheville Downtown Association asked City Council candidates to submit responses to a questionnaire regarding downtown issues in advance of the primary election (held in March 2020). Given that so much has changed since March, we updated the questionnaire to include questions on the Covid-19 pandemic and racial justice. Candidate responses are posted below.   […]