Appalachian folk art fans won’t want to miss the upcoming Summer Session of the 2025 Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands. The beloved bi-annual event celebrates it’s 78th year in 2025. July 17–20, 2025, at Harrah’s Cherokee Center in downtown Asheville.
Asheville is a lively artisan paradise all year ’round but this is particularly true during the two Southern Highland Craft Guild Craft Fairs, held in July and October of every year. Hosting over 200 juried artisans, the Fair fills both the concourse and arena of the Cherokee Center. Offerings include exceptional works in clay, wood, metal, glass, fiber, natural materials, paper, leather, mixed media, and jewelry.
The Fair has been a cornerstone of Appalachian craft tradition since its founding in 1948. The Southern Highland Craft Guild, a non-profit established in 1930 and supporting over 800 juried artisans across nine Southern states, hosts the event each year.
With access available at the door each day, the Fair offers a flexible and immersive experience for art lovers, families, and curious travelers alike. Better yet, it all occurs just a little over a half-hour from Bent Creek Lodge.
Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands Summer 2025
The 2025 summer session is scheduled for Thursday, July 17th through Sunday, July 20th, 10am to 5pm. The event is held at Harrah’s Cherokee Center, located at 87 Haywood Street in downtown Asheville, NC.
This isn’t just a shopping event, it’s a celebration of craft culture. Visitors can engage with the creative process, not just admire it. Live demonstrations span saw carving, pottery shaping, weaving, and more, offering fascinating insight into Appalachian artistry. Local musicians on the arena stage enhance the festive atmosphere, creating a multi-sensory celebration of regional heritage.
With approximately 11,000 attendees, visitor engagement is high. In fact, the Fair generates nearly $1 million in purchases every year. This money, in turn, directly supports the artisans and helps to preserve the region’s rich craft traditions.
Tip: Improve your Fair experience by arriving early before the afternoon crowds. This makes it easier to engage with artisans and catch live demos, especially popular ones like saw carving and textile weaving.
Tickets are $12 (kids enter free). Visit southernhighlandguild.org for more information. You can also find this event on Facebook.
No matter what brings you to Asheville, NC, you’ll find plenty to do and see. Bent Creek Lodge, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, is ready to serve as home base for all your Asheville adventures.
See y’all soon!