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

Connecting to Place: Blue Ridge Craft Trails Invitational, May 16 through July 25, 2026

NEW! The 2026 edition of Down the Road: Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Guide

Blue Ridge Music Trails presents Murphy Campbell at the Earl Scruggs Music Festival, September 5, 2026

The Bascom and The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area presents Connecting to Place: Blue Ridge Craft Trails Exhibition

Featured Itinerary

Black Mountain: A Small Town with Deep Artistic Roots

Black Mountain is located just 15 miles east of Asheville and welcomes visitors with an enticing blend of small-town hospitality and creative vibes.

Click to explore the itinerary and plan your art adventure today!

Blue Ridge Craft Trails Magazine

The 2025-2026 issue of the Blue Ridge Craft Trails Magazine is now available.

The second issue of the Blue Ridge Craft Trails Magazine is here! In this issue, we:

Celebrate John C. Campbell Folkschool
Introduce readers to Qualla Arts and Crafts, which is one of the oldest and most successful Native American craft cooperatives in the country
Share stories of WNC arts and organizations transcending the challenges brought on by Hurricane Helene.
And more!
PLUS: Use the magazine as a guide to find artists, galleries, and craft destinations throughout Western North Carolina.

Read Now

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.