Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands Opens in Asheville
Over 100 artists are showcasing handmade works this weekend at the Harrah's Cherokee Center-Asheville.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Jewelry Making
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The 79th annual Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands has officially opened in Asheville. More than 100 regional artists are participating in the event, which runs through Sunday.
Why it matters
The fair serves as a vital platform for creators from the Southern Appalachian region to support their livelihoods. Many participants are currently working to recover their creative practices following the impact of Hurricane Helene.
The event features over 100 artists representing North Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama. Participants are displaying a diverse range of items including pottery, jewelry, woodcarvings, and furniture.
The players
Harrah's Cherokee Center-Asheville
This facility is a major multi-purpose venue located in downtown Asheville that hosts various regional cultural and athletic events.
The details
Artists are displaying their work in booths while providing live demonstrations of their craftsmanship processes. A new hands-on activity table has been added this year to allow children to engage with the crafting experience.
Timeline
October 16, 2026: The fair begins.
October 18, 2026: The fair ends.
Culture Shift
This craft fair highlights the resilience of the local creative community as they pivot toward collective recovery efforts. It emphasizes the importance of regional artisanal markets in stabilizing livelihoods after the disruption caused by the post-Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.
Asheville residents can support affected local artists by attending the fair to view demonstrations and purchase handmade goods. The event is open to the public through Sunday and includes specific activities for children.
The takeaway
Supporting local makers at events like this helps preserve regional traditions and provides essential financial stability for the arts community. Visitors are encouraged to engage with artists during demonstrations to learn more about the techniques behind these handmade goods.
Further reading
Learn more about local artisan trends in our Jewelry Making section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WLOS.
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