News & Events

It’s time once again for the Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival, presented by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce at beautiful Banner Elk for the last 26 years.

This unique, juried event is known and highly anticipated by local owners of Carolina mountain properties for its eclectic array of presentations and pleasant ambience.  Visitors will find more than 70 vendors on hand offering hand-crafted wares, including – but certainly not limited to – photography, paintings, jewelry, sculpture and pottery.

The dates this year were Friday, July 19th through Sunday, July 21st and again August 9th through the 11th.

Locals also enjoyed the Fifth Annual Banner Elk DiscDogathon held on July 20th at the historic old elementary school. They saw all skill levels on display as teams compete for five places in the World Championships.  Any dog that is safe off-leash, was able to catch a frisbee and participate. All profits from the DiscDogathon benefit the Avery County Humane Society.

NC mountain communities enjoy so many wonderful art festivals and other events during the summer months.  At The Coves Mountain River Club, many of our retired residents have found a passion for creating artwork of their own in media such as watercolor, oil, metal sculpture, woodcarving, dried flowers and so many more.  And their interest provides welcome support for our arts community here in the foothills.

It’s fair to say that inspiration stems from happiness.  Once your mind is freed from the negatives of daily life, ideas can then start to flow and dreams can become reality.

Western North Carolina mountain properties offer a sea change from urban living and its many pressures.  Just being able to breathe fresh, clean air on a daily basis does wonders for your health and outlook.  As you settle into a new, far more peaceful environment, it’s as if a load is lifted from your shoulders.  And then you can think about what you really want to do with your life.

You can easily see the area’s natural benefits.  Hikers, bikers, water sports enthusiasts, photographers, campers and fishermen all take full advantage of our world-class trails, rivers, lakes, parks and scenery.

But for those who are less adventurous or unable to handle as much in the way of physical exercise, we have just as much to offer in terms of artistic, cultural, and educational opportunities.  You can stay as active and busy as you like and devote time to your own talents and personal growth.

It’s not uncommon for homeowners at The Coves Mountain River Club to dedicate part of their living spaces to their new-found artistic pursuits.  Our highly-experienced home design professionals are sometimes asked to include art studios, for example, that will incorporate plenty of natural light.

Living here, perhaps you’ll find a talent you weren’t aware that you had.  Sometimes, all it takes is one opportunity to see what others are doing.  NC mountain communities celebrate the arts in so many ways, and festivals are a great way to showcase the remarkable creativity that surrounds us.

Save the date for next year so you can enjoy the Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival.  And while you’re here, stop by The Coves Mountain River Club and let us give you a tour.  Stroll along our five miles of beautiful waterfront on the Johns River, play our golf course with its spectacular views around every turn, visit the Pisgah Mountain Lodge, relax and watch the sun set over the mountains…  We could go on and on.

Are you ready to see how great life in the foothills can be?

Call us at 828.754.0700 to schedule a tour!