Three (Free) Fun Things To Do in Western North Carolina This Weekend!

Western North Carolina welcomes its visitors to a place chock full of natural beauty, mountainous views, culturally rich festivals and events, outdoor adventure, and so much more. On any given day in the unique and diverse towns of this part of the state, endless opportunities abound for exploration, education, and adventure.

This weekend is no different. We'd like to point out a few of our local highlights you'll find in the Asheville area and beyond. We hope you get to experience one or more of them.

Here are three fun things to do this weekend in Western NC

(and don't forget, they're free!):

1. RiverFest 2012, Asheville. Come on out for some fun in, on, and around the French Broad River. This annual event occurs on Saturday, August 11 from 1-7p.m. at the French Broad River Park on Amboy Road in Asheville. A highlight of this event is the Anything That Floats Parade where groups from around Western NC put together watercraft of any and all kinds (as long as it floats) and parade them by the festival grounds. The rules area simple: they must float and must be powered by wind, solar, or strength (no motors allowed). They must also be removed from the grounds upon completion of the race. There is also live music, a ton of fun activities for the kids, and a little something for everyone. No festival would be complete without some refreshing, cold beer provided by the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company... and food, lots of food. Full details including a schedule of events can be found here.

2. 35th Annual Sourwood Festival, Black Mountain. Get ready for some great fun, great mountain cooking, and great music on Saturday, August 11 and Sunday, August 12. Held every August, this festival is popular among locals and visitors alike. Gather up your friends and make a day of it. For more details, contact the Black Mountain-Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce at 828.669.2300.

3. War Comes to the Mountains, Weaverville. OK, war is not fun... but living history is. That's what you'll experience here as you embark on the adventure of everyday life as a Civil War soldier during this encampment of Company F of the 16th North Carolina Regiment. Located at the Zebulon B. Vance (North Carolina's Civil War govenor) Birthplace State Historic Site on 911 Reems Creek Road in Weaverville, visitors get to experience two days of living history at this event from 10a.m. to 4p.m. on Saturday, August 11 and Sunday, August 12. Sample some army rations, get a feel for a musket on your shoulder, or try on a knapsack. Admission is free, but donations are always welcome.

Do you need a place to stay while you're attending one or more of our events? Take a look at our interactive vacation rental location map to find the perfect place to stay convenient to where you want to go and what you want to do.

What is your favorite Western North Carolina festival, event, or activity? Tell us about it! We always love hearing from you.