FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ASHEVILLE, N.C. — October 13, 2026 — Fall is unfolding across the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the weeks ahead offer visitors a timely opportunity to experience Asheville’s changing foliage, celebrated arts scene, live music and an exciting lineup of autumn events.
As fall color continues moving down the mountains toward Asheville, the city is entering one of its most anticipated travel periods. From regional craft fairs and outdoor art markets to live performances, Halloween festivities and scenic mountain drives, there are plenty of reasons to plan an autumn getaway.
To help visitors make the most of the season, Asheville Hotel Group is offering 25% off eligible stays at four participating hotels through its partnership with Explore Asheville. The promotion provides travelers with an opportunity to enjoy the region’s fall attractions while taking advantage of special lodging savings.
“October is one of the most exciting times of year for Asheville and our hotels,” said Ray Anderson, Director of Sales of Asheville Hotel Group. “The fall color is progressing through the mountains, our arts and music scene is buzzing, and there are wonderful events happening throughout the region. We encourage visitors to come experience Asheville this Fall and discover everything our community has to offer.”
The latest fall color report: The show is moving down the mountains
According to Explore Asheville’s latest published fall-color report, covering the week of October 5, foliage is advancing across the higher elevations of Western North Carolina. Longtime fall-color expert Howard S. Neufeld, widely known as “The Fall Color Guy,” has reported increasingly vivid yellows and oranges, with red accents emerging throughout the mountain landscape.
Neufeld expects Asheville to approach peak color during the final week of October, while lower elevations may continue displaying fall foliage into the first week of November. Weather and elevation will influence the timing and intensity of the display.
Because the Asheville region spans such a wide range of elevations, visitors can follow the progression of color over several weeks rather than relying on a single peak weekend.
Where to look for fall color in the coming weeks:
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Higher elevations: Explore overlooks and mountain trails along accessible portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway, including Craggy Gardens and Graveyard Fields, for changing foliage at elevation.
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Mid-elevation mountains: Areas around Black Balsam and other mountain overlooks offer opportunities to experience the transition from early color to more developed autumn displays.
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Asheville and surrounding communities: As October progresses, the city’s neighborhoods, gardens, Biltmore and nearby scenic areas become increasingly appealing destinations for fall-color viewing.
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Lower elevations: The surrounding foothills may provide additional opportunities to enjoy autumn scenery into early November, depending on conditions.
Visitors should check current road conditions before traveling, particularly along the Blue Ridge Parkway, where closures and access restrictions can affect individual routes.
For weekly updates and current viewing recommendations, visit the Explore Asheville Fall Color Report.
Upcoming October events in Asheville
The changing leaves are only part of the attraction. Asheville’s creative community and event calendar offer visitors plenty to experience throughout the remainder of October.
Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands
October 15–18 | Harrah’s Cherokee Center–Asheville
One of the region’s best-known craft traditions returns to downtown Asheville, bringing together more than 100 juried makers. Visitors can browse handmade work in pottery, wood, fiber, jewelry and other mediums while meeting artists and experiencing the region’s Appalachian craft heritage.
LEAF Global Arts Festival
October 16–18 | Asheville area
The LEAF Global Arts Festival celebrates music, culture and creative expression with performances and experiences inspired by traditions from around the world. It offers visitors another way to explore the cultural diversity and artistic energy of Western North Carolina.
Asheville Art in the Park
October 17 | Pack Square Park
Art lovers can browse original work by regional artists and makers at this outdoor market in downtown Asheville. The event offers a convenient opportunity to combine shopping for handmade art with a visit to downtown restaurants, galleries and attractions.
Beaverdam Studio Tour
October 24–25 | North Asheville
Visitors can explore artists’ studios throughout Beaverdam Valley during this self-guided tour. The event offers an inside look at the creative process, with opportunities to discover pottery, textiles, sculpture, photography and other locally made work.
Halloween Season
Throughout October
Asheville embraces the Halloween season with activities for families, seasonal attractions, costume celebrations and live entertainment. The Haunted Trail at Adventure Center of Asheville is scheduled for select dates through October 30, offering a seasonal outing for visitors seeking a little spooky fun.
Live music and performing arts also continue throughout the month, with concerts, theater and comedy performances at venues across the city.
Visitors should consult official event websites for ticket availability, schedules and any updates before making plans.
Experience more of Asheville this fall
Beyond the events calendar, autumn is an ideal time to explore the experiences that make Asheville distinctive.
Visitors can take a scenic drive through the mountains, explore local galleries, sample the region’s food and craft beverage scene, enjoy live music, visit Biltmore or discover nearby communities throughout Western North Carolina.
The combination of mountain scenery, independent businesses, outdoor recreation and a lively arts and cultural scene makes Asheville a destination where visitors can build an entire getaway around their interests.
Stay and save with Asheville Hotel Group
Asheville Hotel Group is helping travelers make the most of the season with 25% off eligible stays at four participating hotels through Explore Asheville.
Whether planning a weekend centered on fall foliage, a trip to the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands, a music-filled getaway or a Halloween weekend in the mountains, guests can use Asheville Hotel Group as their home base for experiencing the destination.
To learn more about the promotion and book a stay, visit:
Offer is subject to availability, eligible stay dates and restrictions. Consult the booking page for complete details.
About Asheville Hotel Group
Asheville Hotel Group is a locally operated hospitality company representing five Hilton-branded hotels in the Asheville area. The group is committed to providing welcoming accommodations and exceptional guest service while supporting the restaurants, attractions, businesses, artists and events that make Asheville and Western North Carolina a distinctive destination.