3 things happening in NC: Films, folk music, glassblowing in western NC

Every week, Cardinal & Pine picks three of the top events happening in NC. This week, there’s a whole lot going on in western NC, including a film festival, a big folk music celebration, and the ancient art of glassblowing. 

When I sit down to write the “3 things happening in NC” column each week, I try to be as purposeful as possible in curating three opportunities for North Carolinians to work into their schedule, regardless of where they live in the state or how busy they might be. 

I try to spread the selections out, including events happening in different parts of the state at different points in the week. That is admittedly not the case this week. 

My real priority is to find the three most interesting occurrences for you to potentially plan for — things that are worth making a trip for if you want a memorable experience. It just so happens that this week, the three coolest events are all taking place in different parts of western North Carolina.

Video: Introducing Bad Medicine, investigating healthcare in North Carolina

That said, it should make all of us happy to see these mountain towns continue to recover from the devastation of Helene. Each one is worth your consideration for a day trip or two for the weekend. Check them out. 

The Winter Ramble in Hendersonville

Feb. 27-March 1, locations vary

This three-day festival gives Appalachian music fans the perfect opportunity to explore Hendersonville, as events will take place in restaurants, breweries, wineries, and a number of other venues throughout the town. It’s an indoor version of the 

It’s also a great way to explore the history and diversity of Appalachian music ranging from old-time string bands, fiddle music, and bluegrass to gospel, folk ballads, and country blues. Some performances are free while others are ticketed or carry cover charges from their respective venues. 

This year’s performers include Old Sap, the Maggie Valley Band, Chatham Rabbits, 81 Drifters, Josh Goforth, Letters to Abigail, and the Holler Choir, among about 18 others. And if you’re not familiar with the performers, that’s more of a reason to attend than not to. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Visit Hendersonville, NC (@visithendersonvillenc)

Frost to Flame: Winter Glassblowing Gathering in Burnsville

Feb. 27-March 1, Hearth Gallery and Glass

Hearth Glass Studio Manager Tadayoshi Littleton (Photo via Explore Burnsville)

As old as Appalachian Mountain music is, there are some arts that precede it; glassblowing is one of them. Believed to have originated from a Syrian craftsman in Palestinian Jerusalem in the first century, folks have been plying this craft for millennia.

This annual event in Burnsville gives you a chance to see some of the modern experts at work, including renowned artists like Rob Levin, Kenny Pieper, Pablo Soto, and more. 

Frost to Flame will feature paid classes, free workshops, and demonstrations. Stop in on Friday evening at 5 p.m. for a cocktail party and workshop. Engage on Saturday with hands-on workshops (register first), then join expert glassblowers for coffee and pastries on Sunday morning. 

Boone Docs Film Festival in Boone

Feb. 27-28, The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country

Marking its fifth year of showcasing short documentaries centering the people who live and work in Appalachia, the Boone Docs Film Festival shows that the folks who call western North Carolina and beyond home are more than just mountain people — though they are definitely and proudly that, too.  

This year’s fest kicks off on Friday night with a screening of “A Beast Touch the Mountain: Mountain Valley Pipeline and the fight for Appalachia,” followed by a post-film discussion with director James Mottern. 

Other screenings throughout the weekend include those that highlight Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, showcase the work of emerging filmmakers, and a Saturday night block featuring films broadly displaying life in Appalachia.