There are certain things you can count on happening in and around McDowell County, beautifully nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, come Springtime, in addition to the new blooms and greening of the trees. We’re talking about many opportunities for outdoor adventure as Mother Nature starts stirring. Plus events to celebrate the wonderful regional artistry created in and inspired by these Blue Ridge Mountains. The warmth of spring is also evident in the genuine hospitality of small mountain towns, whether browsing a local bookstore, performing at an open-mic night, or participating in a friendly locals' poker game.
As the days grow longer and the temperatures warm up, there’s even more time to make the very most of your visit to the Blue Ridge Mountains. This is why we've created a list of the Must-Go Spring Events in McDowell County.
March Events
March 3rd: World Tavern Poker at the Spillway
- Location: 93 S Main St, Marion, NC
- Time: Weekly on Tuesdays, 7 - 10P
- Details: Count on this locals' poker game every Tuesday at the Spillway. Enjoy a casual, cozy atmosphere amid unique art and decor, with a full bar featuring local beer and specialty cocktails, plus a curated food menu. Indoor and heated, covered outdoor gathering spaces are available.
March 5th: Open Mic Thursday Nights at The Box Factory
- Location: 29 Logan St, Marion, NC
- Time: Weekly on Thursdays, 6 - 10P
- Details: Show up ready to perform and give your fellow musicians a listen in this repurposed industrial venue that blends historic character with modern entertainment.
March 20th: Plant Bingo! Hosted by Sprout & Bloom at the Spillway
- Location: 93 S Main St, Marion, NC
- Time: Friday 6 - 8P
- Details: What genius combined Bingo and plants to start us off fresh this Spring? Pay to play ($15), which includes two Bingo cards and 10 rounds of play.
March 21st: Mount Mitchell Heartbreaker 50M / 55K Ultra Trail Races
- Location: 985 Camp Grier Road, Old Fort, NC
- Time: Saturday 5:30A & 7A Starts
- Details: Starting at Camp Grier, both the 50-miler and 55K promise the extremes - in elevations, in stunning scenery, and in heart-pounding and quad-crushing adventure. Learn more and register here. Camp Grier offers a variety of lodging options for you and your crew during race weekend.
April Events
April 11th: 7 Sisters 25K Trail Race with Camp Grier
- Location: Anderson Auditorium, Montreat, NC
- Time: Saturday 9A Race Start
- Details: Calling the experienced trail runners! This one is 14.5 miles of grind while experiencing the Montreat Wilderness Trail System, a WNC classic. Register here.
April 11th: Neighbors in Wine & Art at Linville Falls Winery
- Location: 9557 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC
- Time: Saturday 12N - 5P
- Details: Join the fun while the Anvil Arts Gallery showcases sculpture and artwork at the winery for your viewing pleasure. Wine and art go together so well in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
April 25th: First Annual McDowell Literary Festival
- Time: Independent Bookstore Day!! Saturday 9A - 9P
- Details: Spend the day exploring McDowell County’s independent bookstores for special author events and booksignings, sales, and promotions. All things literary will be celebrated all day, and do not miss the afterparty at The High Dive starting at 8 P.M.
April 26th: Rock n’ Roller, 5th Edition
- Location: 655 Catawba River Road, Old Fort, NC
- Time: Saturday 9A Start
- Details: Take your pick of cycling adventures - a 62-mile road course, a 30-mile road course, or a 26-mile gravel and singletrack race. No matter which you choose, McDowell County’s scenic beauty is showcased brilliantly while riding through the mountains and alongside the streams. This is a fundraiser for trail development and community rebuilding, too. Great Fun for a Great Cause
Please note: All event info is subject to change! Check our event page for the most up-to-date info.
