About Pack Square Park
Pack Square Park is a 6.5-acre historic urban park in the heart of downtown Asheville (www.exploreasheville.com ). In many ways it is “Asheville’s front yard”– two city blocks of green space framed by landmarks like the Asheville Art Museum and Harry & David Plaza (www.aboutasheville.com ). The park features tree-lined brick paths, art installations, and open lawns. Signature amenities include a four-ton bronze-and-stone fountain (J. Rush Oates Plaza) by local sculptor Hoss Haley, the Shindig-friendly Splashville children’s splash pad, and the WNC Veterans Memorial (www.ashevillenc.gov ) (www.aboutasheville.com ). An outdoor performance stage (Bascom Lamar Lunsford Stage) with an overhead pergola anchors one end of the park, complete with built-in amphitheater seating. Public art and monuments (including Urban Trail plaques, war memorials, and even one of Asheville’s last vintage phone booths) are scattered among gardens of native plants, honoring Asheville’s heritage (www.ashevillenc.gov ) (www.ashevillenc.gov ). Though Pack Square’s new park design officially opened in 2010, the site has been the city’s civic center since the 1790s and was long known simply as the Courthouse or City-County Plaza (www.ashevillenc.gov ) (www.ashevillenc.gov ). It was renamed “Pack Square” in the early 20th century (after the Pack family) and revitalized in the 2000s by public and private investment (www.ashevillenc.gov ) (www.ashevillenc.gov ). Today the park is wheelchair-accessible and provides benches, restrooms, drinking fountains, and wide promenades for relaxation (www.ashevillenc.gov ) (www.ashevillenc.gov ).
Events and Programming
Pack Square Park hosts a year-round calendar of free and ticketed festivals, concerts, and community gatherings. Local tradition includes **Shindig on the Green**, a weekly summer bluegrass and old-time music festival (each Saturday late June through August, roughly 7–10pm) where audience members picnic or dance on the lawn (www.exploreasheville.com ). Every August–September the park is home to **Boomtown FestAVL**, a free arts-and-heritage festival that often features concerts (like Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe in 2024 (www.concertarchives.org )) and other performances. The **Asheville Symphony “Symphony in the Park”** is held in late summer (e.g. early September) as a free pops concert (ashevillesymphony.org ). Pack Square also anchors seasonal events: for example the **Downtown Memorial Day Festival of the Arts** (outdoor art market), **Asheville Art in the Park** (spring juried art show), the annual **Blue Ridge Pride Festival** (mid-September) (www.blueridgepride.org ), and **Fourth of July fireworks and concerts** (co-produced with the Downtown Association) (www.aboutasheville.com ). In the fall, Asheville’s Oktoberfest brings dozens of local breweries, German food trucks and polka bands into Pack Square (www.aboutasheville.com ) (www.exploreasheville.com ). (Recent updates have made Oktoberfest free to enter, with optional “Prost Passes” for beer tasting (www.exploreasheville.com ).) In winter Pack Square participates in Asheville’s “Winter Lights Downtown” holiday display: each Christmas season the trees and monuments around the park are strung with festive LED lights (www.ashevillenc.gov ). The park is also the start/finish for city races (Asheville Marathon in late fall, the Thanksgiving “Turkey Trot,” etc.) and hosts new cultural celebrations like the Juneteenth Freedom Festival. Over the years Pack Square has seen headline acts – from bluegrass heroes Steep Canyon Rangers in 2022 (www.concertarchives.org ) to reggae legend Stephen Marley in 2019 (www.concertarchives.org ) – often as part of broader festivals or downtown street fairs.
Tickets and Booking
Because Pack Square is a public park, there is no permanent box office on site. **Many events at Pack Square are free and open to the public**, while others (typically alcohol-friendly festivals or ticketed concerts) require advance tickets from the event promoter. For free community events (Shindig, Symphony in the Park, art festivals, fireworks, etc.) no ticket is needed – just arrive early to claim a spot. For beer festivals or other 21+ events, tickets are usually sold through the organizer’s website or local vendors. For example, Asheville Oktoberfest traditionally required advance tickets for beer tasting (with non-drinkers paying a reduced rate) (www.aboutasheville.com ); as of 2025 the event’s entry is free and tickets are only sold for the optional beer-tasting “Prost Pass” (www.exploreasheville.com ). In general, watch the event’s official announcements for on-sale dates and pricing tiers. There is no formal Will-Call desk at the park (no centralized box office), so even for ticketed events you will pick up wristbands or tickets at a pop-up gate on show day. For popular fee-based events, it’s wise to buy online early. All seating is unreserved (general admission on lawn or plaza), and evening events often sell out, so plan ahead.
Seating and Layout
Pack Square is an open-air venue with **no fixed seats or numbered sections**. The Bascom Lamar Lunsford Stage occupies one edge of the park and faces a broad paved plaza and lawn area. In front of the stage there are tiered stone terraces (an amphitheater-style setting) where crowds gather (www.ashevillenc.gov ). Most visitors simply bring folding chairs or blankets and spread out on the lawn. Optimal viewing is up front near the stage – arrive early for a front-row spot. Parts of the plaza farther back are great for larger free festivals where people mill about, but distant corners may get jostled for view. Be aware that the park’s only covered area is the stage pergola; all audience seating is outdoors. Sun and wind come into play: seek shade under trees during afternoon events, and note that stage sound is projected outward into the plaza. Because it’s a city park with multiple entrances, you can view performances from side terraces or lawns, but sound and visuals are clearest in front of the stage. The park’s fountains and splash pad are near the plaza – they add atmosphere for daytime events, but may splash children if you stand too close during evening shows. In short, Pack Square’s atmosphere is relaxed and informal: treat it like a picnic picnic-concert space, not a fixed-seat hall. There are no VIP boxes or assigned seats – all attendees share open areas equally.
Getting There and Parking
Pack Square Park is located at 80 Court Plaza, Asheville, NC 28801 (in downtown Asheville, one block from City Hall) (www.exploreasheville.com ). It’s bounded by Biltmore Avenue, Patton Avenue, South Pack Square, and Church Street. Because it’s downtown, there are many ways to arrive. **Street parking:** Pay parking meters run along nearby streets ($2.50/hour, 2-hour limit, weekdays 8am–6pm; note that meters do not require payment on Sundays or city holidays (www.ashevillenc.gov )). After 6pm Monday–Saturday parking on most downtown streets becomes free, and all day Sunday is free. **Park garages:** The closest is the city-operated *Pack Square Parking Garage* at 26 Biltmore Avenue (one block away), which has ~350 spaces (en.parkopedia.com ). Asheville also runs several other public garages downtown (e.g. the Civic Center/Grove Arcade decks, and North French Broad Ave deck) all a short walk away. **Public transit:** Asheville’s ART bus system serves the downtown core – multiple routes stop within a couple blocks of Pack Square (check the city’s transit maps for current routes). The transit center at 49 Coxe Avenue is about two blocks south, with buses to many neighborhoods. (The free Hatch AVL/Brown-Grotta Arts trolley, when running, also serves a loop that stops near Pack Square.) **Airport/Train:** Asheville Regional Airport is ~15 miles east (rental cars/taxis from there into town). Amtrak Thruway buses and Greyhound lines stop at 64 Ashland Ave, a short walk from the park. **Rideshare:** Drop-off/pick-up is easiest on Pack Square’s perimeter streets – for example Patton or Biltmore Avenue near the park entrances. (Tip: downtown is fairly compact, so you can park once and walk almost everywhere.) In brief, Pack Square’s central location means it’s usually easiest just to park in a nearby garage or meter and stroll in.
Inside the Venue
Once inside the park, expect casual outdoor conditions. **Entry/security:** For most free events, Pack Square is unfenced and open – you can simply walk in and out through multiple gates. For enclosed or alcohol-serving events (Oktoberfest, certain concerts, etc.), temporary fencing and a single entrance may be set up. At those events you may need to show ID or a wristband and perhaps undergo a quick bag check. **Atmosphere:** The overall vibe is family-friendly and laid-back. Bring a picnic blanket or low chair for lounging on the grass. Remember this isn’t an indoor hall – there’s no assigned seating or lobby. The city provides permanent benches, but most people sit on blankets or lawn chairs. **Food & drink:** The park itself has no permanent bars or concession stands. During events you’ll often find a variety of food trucks and beer/wine vendors lining the edges of the plaza. For example, Oktoberfest offers German sausages and dozens of local craft brews (www.exploreasheville.com ), and art festivals may include barbecue or taco trucks. Bring cash or card for these vendors. Nearby restaurants (see next section) are also a popular source of pre-show dinner. Note that only the event’s vendors are allowed to sell alcohol; outside alcohol is prohibited unless explicitly permitted. **Facilities:** Public restrooms are built into the park (near the splash pad and stage) (www.ashevillenc.gov ). These are modern facilities maintained by the city. **Accessibility:** All paths and seating areas are wheelchair-accessible (www.ashevillenc.gov ). In fact, the City’s information page lists the park’s accessibility features – paved pathways, ramps, and ADA restrooms (www.ashevillenc.gov ) – so guests with mobility needs can generally reach all areas of interest. **Other services:** There is no coat check or phone-charging station; be mindful of your belongings. Decoration uses are only allowed with a city permit. (If you wish to host a private event or put up a tent/stage in the park, the city requires a permit – contact Asheville Parks & Recreation for reservations (www.ashevillenc.gov ).) Wi-Fi is not provided by the park itself, so any network or streaming must rely on your own mobile device or a local connection. Finally, remember to follow park etiquette: pick up your trash, keep pets leashed (pets are welcome on leash (www.bringfido.com )), and enjoy the open-air setting.
Nearby Amenities
Downtown Asheville offers a wealth of nearby restaurants, bars and hotels within easy walking distance of Pack Square Park. **Dining and drinks:** Right adjacent to the park are plenty of options. For casual fare, you’ll find breweries and bars along Biltmore Avenue (a block north), like Asheville Brewing Co. and Wicked Weed’s brewpub. A half-block east is Pack’s Tavern (traditional southern cookery) and just beyond that French Broad Chocolate Lounge for sweets (www.aboutasheville.com ). Around the corner on College or Broadway Streets are dozens more choices – local favorites include iconic Southern fare at Tupelo Honey or Biscuit Head, taco stands like White Duck Tacos, and many brewpubs. If planning a pre-show meal, give yourself time to walk a few blocks north or south; the downtown grid is dense. For post-show nightlife, numerous bars surround the park. (If events end late, note that rideshare apps can be busy, but cabs and buses typically run until midnight.) **Lodging:** You’re in Asheville’s core lodging district. Within 2–3 blocks of Pack Square are major hotels: the Renaissance Asheville Downtown (Marriott), the Aloft Asheville Downtown, and AC by Marriott are all right across the plaza or within one block. Also nearby are the Foundry Hotel, Clarion Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, or Haywood Park Hotel, among others. For upscale stays, the Omni Grove Park Inn overlooks the city a short drive away, or boutique B&Bs dot nearby streets. Because of this, event-goers often simply walk or short-ride from downtown hotels rather than parking separately. **Other services:** If you need shopping, there’s a small grocery/drug store in the pack square collection one block south, and larger shops (Whole Foods, etc.) just a few blocks further. The Asheville Visitor Center is a block west at City Hall if you need maps or local guidance. In short, Pack Square is sandwiched in Asheville’s walkable downtown — arrive a bit early to grab a bite or coffee in the neighborhood before an event, and you’ll have plenty of choices.
What Makes This Venue Special
What really sets Pack Square Park apart is its blend of **historic significance and community energy**. It’s literally Asheville’s gathering spot: from the earliest days it was the courthouse square and people naturally congregated there. Over time it witnessed city milestones (Bele Chere street festivals of the 1980s, civil rights marches, holiday parades, etc.) (www.ashevillenc.gov ). After dark, the glittering backdrop of downtown adds charm – the art museum’s Yulan magnolia trees and the fountain area are famously photogenic. Architecturally, the park renovation was designed by notable local architects and artists, incorporating Appalachian craft (like the hand-painted tile mosaic on the stage floor) (www.ashevillenc.gov ). It even hosts one of the city’s top public art pieces (the WNC Veterans Memorial) where residents pause on Memorial Day. Culturally, Pack Square is the symbol of Asheville’s “mountain spirit.” Locals love telling visitors that this is where mountain music still lives; indeed, the Bascom Lamar Lunsford stage honors a legendary Appalachian fiddler, reflecting hometown pride in traditional arts (www.ashevillenc.gov ). For performers, it’s beloved for its intimate urban vibe – touring folk and bluegrass artists often delight in the enthusiastic crowds and high mountain-breeze acoustics. For families, the fountains and grassy knolls make it feel like a big town-square playground. The economic impact is also tangible: the city has invested millions in Pack Square because festivals here draw thousands of visitors who patronize downtown shops and hotels. In short, Pack Square isn’t just a park – it’s Asheville’s living room and town square, where every generation of locals has gathered to celebrate, protest, or simply enjoy one another’s company. Revelers toast it during Oktoberfest, tree-huggers picnicking under its oaks, and everyone from kids to grandparents joining hands to dance at Shindigs. That unique blend of history, design and people-powered events makes Pack Square Park the beating heart of Asheville.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: As noted, Pack Square Park is wheelchair-accessible throughout (www.ashevillenc.gov ) and many events will provide access ramps or platforms. Permanent restrooms are ADA-compliant. If you need any special seating or assistance, arrive early and seek out the event staff for guidance.
Weatherwise: This is an outdoor venue, so dress for the forecast. Mornings and evenings can be cool even in summer, and rainstorms can roll in quickly from the mountains. Sunscreen and hats are wise for afternoon events. If rain is in the forecast, events generally proceed unless there’s thunder/lightning or severe weather – check the event organizer’s updates that day.
What to bring: Blankets, lawn chairs and picnic gear for outdoor comfort. Seats aren’t provided. For concerts, earplugs help little ones. Water bottles are smart (hydrate in the mountain air!), and many people bring small umbrellas just in case. Otherwise, keep personal items minimal since you’ll be carrying them in the crowd. Each event has its own gear recommendations – for example, Oktoberfest suggests bringing a sturdy commemorative cup (you’ll need it for tastings) (www.exploreasheville.com ).
What not to bring: Generally, large bicycles, skateboards, or coolers are discouraged. Glass containers and outside alcohol are not allowed unless explicitly permitted by the event. (All drinks must be purchased from the park’s vendors at festivals.) Weapons, fireworks, and pets (unless it’s specifically a pet-friendly event) are prohibited under city parks rules.
Arrival tips: For free or general-admission events, lines can form at popular times. It’s best to arrive early – plan to be in line at least 30–60 minutes before a headliner or parade. Bring a small bag for essentials; many events have bag checks, so avoid prohibited items. Note: since Pack Square sits at 4 corners of lot roads, traffic can back up around showtime. Give yourself extra travel time on event nights.
Tickets/Admissions: If you’re attending a paid festival or concert, print or save any emailed ticket/wristband confirmation. For sold-out shows, sometimes a box office opens behind a side fencing gate (if any) – but best to buy online before it sells out. Many locals simply try their luck at the door for free events.
Bathroom locations: The park’s permanent restrooms are located east of the fountain (near the stage) and are open during events. For long shows, factor in restroom breaks before the show starts. Lines can form in peak festival hours.
Age and seating: Children of all ages are welcome at most Pack Square events; Shindig and July 4th are very family-oriented. Some events, like Oktoberfest or late-night concerts, are 21+ or have adult-only sections – check age restrictions on the event flyer or ticket site. There are no reserved VIP or “best seats”; it’s all first-come general admission on the lawn.
Dress code: Very casual – Asheville has a laid-back dress culture. However, avoid blocking sightlines (e.g. stand on chairs unnecessarily) and follow any comfort/safety guidelines for performers (e.g. no flash photography during a show, if requested).
Concert tips: Sound in the open air can travel differently than indoors. If you’re toward the back and find the mix muddy, consider moving slightly left/right but still facing the speakers. Avoid sticking behind tall objects or too far to the sides. Share the space – keep pathways clear for others. And if you bring kids, note the nearest shade/exit beforehand and identify any on-site first aid station (often manned by volunteers at big events).
First Aid and Safety: Most large festivals have a clearly marked first-aid or command tent. For smaller shows, local EMS patrol the area. If you need help, ask any event staff or off-duty officer. Lost-and-found is usually managed by event volunteers. The park is well-lit after dark, but always keep an eye on your belongings and travel in groups if leaving late.
Connectivity: Cellular reception is usually good in downtown Asheville, so your phone will work for tickets or photos. There is no public Wi-Fi specific to the park. If you rely on digital ticketing, have a backup (screenshot or PDF) in case cell service hiccups in a crowd. Many organizers also post real-time info on social media during events.
Insider hint: If it’s your first time, climb the fountain steps (when it’s not in use) for a panoramic view of the city grid before sunset. Or schedule dinner on one of the shaded park benches around sunset – locals say the western vista of mountains behind the city lights is stunning. For event nights, arriving a bit before sundown lets you explore nearby art galleries or grab a quick snack with minimal lines.
Local knowhow: American craft beers and Appalachian cuisine are dominant flavors here – try a local IPA at the outdoor bar cart, or grab some skillet biscuits from a porch-seller. Because Asheville is a bike-friendly city, you’ll often see Cyclists taking a break at Pack Square; if you arrive on two wheels, you can lock them to the many racks or lamp posts around the park.
Mistakes to avoid: Don’t assume restocking (buy extra water or snacks for kids beforehand). Don’t park in a lot without checking pay hours – many downtown lots go unattended after 6pm. Avoid over-packaging your day: keep valuables off the grass (leave them locked in your car or hotel if possible). And don’t miss the moment – many events here have unadvertised gems: an impromptu folk jam in a corner, or a downtown dancer leading a circle. Stay curious!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pack Square Park free to enter and visit?
Yes. Pack Square Park itself is public property and can be accessed at no charge any day of the week. There is no admission fee or ticket gate for general park visitors. (Paid tickets only apply if you enter the park for a special festival or 21+ event, but you can still walk through or picnic in the park for free when no ticketed event is happening.)
What events happen at Pack Square Park?
Where can I buy tickets for concerts or festivals at Pack Square?
There is no on-site box office; tickets are sold by each event’s promoter. For ticketed events (like Oktoberfest or certain headliner shows), check the official event website or local ticket outlets. Many Pack Square festivals are actually free (with no tickets needed). If an event is free, you usually just show up. Always buy in advance from an authorized seller to avoid scalpers, and bring a printed or electronic ticket if required.
What’s the address of Pack Square Park and how do I get there?
Pack Square Park is at 80 Court Plaza, Asheville, NC 28801 (www.exploreasheville.com ), in central Downtown Asheville. It’s a block north of City Hall. You can drive and use nearby metered street parking or a garage, or take the ART city bus to downtown. The Biltmore, Clingman, and Patton Avenue bus routes stop within a block or two. If driving, the Pack Square Parking Garage (26 Biltmore Ave, ~2 blocks away) is convenient (en.parkopedia.com ). Rideshares can drop you off at any of the park’s corner streets.
Is there parking near Pack Square Park and what does it cost?
Yes. Nearby parking options include on-street metered spaces and public garages. Street meters in downtown Asheville cost $2.50/hr (two-hour maximum). Payment is required only Monday–Saturday 8am–6pm; parking is free outside those times (evenings and Sundays) (www.ashevillenc.gov ). The city-owned Pack Square Garage on 26 Biltmore Ave has about 350 spaces (en.parkopedia.com ) (routine hourly/daily rates apply there). Other nearby garages (City Hall, Civic Center, etc.) are within walking distance. As always, check signage for any event-specific restrictions.
Can I take public transit to Pack Square Park?
Absolutely. Asheville’s city bus system (ART) has multiple routes through downtown. For example, several routes stop near Pack Square’s perimeter (on Biltmore Ave or near City Hall). The Downtown Transit Center on Coxe Ave is a few blocks away, making connections easy. Check the ART schedules or use the Transit App for real-time routes. There’s no light rail, but Asheville’s Art Trolley (ArtsAVL) also offered—or will resume—a free loop connecting Pack Square to other arts venues.
How many people can Pack Square Park hold (capacity)?
Pack Square Park is about 6.5 acres (roughly two city blocks) (www.exploreasheville.com ). Being a lawn-style park, capacity isn’t fixed by seats. In practice, it can accommodate several thousand people for an outdoor concert or festival. (For reference, big events like holidays can easily draw audiences in the thousands.) There’s no official “hard limit” – if the park seems too crowded at an event, organizers may stop further entry for safety. But typically it’s large enough for community-scale festivals and draws.
Are chairs or blankets allowed, and where should I sit?
You’re encouraged to bring folding lawn chairs or blankets for comfort at concerts/festivals. There are no fixed seats, so people spread out on the grass or terraces. Good spots are in front of the stage near the built-in amphitheater steps (www.ashevillenc.gov ). If you want shade, sit under the trees on the edges, though the stage may be farther away. Avoid standing right behind any pillars or tall objects, as they can block your view. In short: front-center for best sound/view, or wherever you have space to relax.
Is Pack Square Park wheelchair and ADA accessible?
Yes. The park was designed with accessibility in mind. Paved walkways connect the main areas, and the city lists it as “Wheelchair Accessible” (www.ashevillenc.gov ). Accessible curb cuts lead into the park from surrounding streets, and the ramps to the main stage area allow wheelchair users to enjoy performances. Accessible restrooms are also provided. For events, staff will typically leave open space on the ramps or terraces for wheelchair viewing. If you have specific needs (like interpreter services), contact the event organizer in advance.
What is Splasheville at Pack Square Park?
Splasheville is Asheville’s outdoor splash pad located in Pack Square Park. It’s a concrete area with ground nozzles and shallow basins that spray water for kids (and fun-loving adults) to play in. It runs seasonally: typically from late spring through summer (check the city’s parks page for exact dates (www.ashevillenc.gov )). There are no lifeguards (it’s like a fountain park), so children should be supervised. Many families visit Splasheville on hot days as a free way to cool off.
Are dogs or pets allowed in Pack Square Park?
Yes – Pack Square is dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome in the grassy and plaza areas (though not in the splash pad area when it’s in use). Travel sites describe it as a “dog-friendly, public park” with ample open space (www.bringfido.com ). The city requires that dogs be kept on leash at all times and that owners clean up after their pets. (Service animals for events are also permitted.)
Can I bring outside food and drink into the park?
You may bring your own picnic snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for informal park visits. However, at ticketed events or festivals, outside alcohol is usually not allowed. Organizers typically expect you to purchase drinks from their concessions. Glass containers are discouraged or banned for safety. In any case, be sure to pick up all trash; trash/recycling bins are provided. If you’re unsure about a specific item, check the event’s rules or city ordinances.
What are Pack Square Park’s hours of operation?
Pack Square Park is open to the public daily from dawn to dusk. There are no gates to close it at night under normal circumstances. For scheduled events (like evening concerts), the park will remain open during the program. Essentially you can visit it in daylight hours any day, and staying late after an event should be safe as the area remains well-lit and downtown is active. (Still, always use common sense if it’s late night.)
Where are the restrooms located in Pack Square Park?
The park’s permanent restroom facilities are located near the stage/splash pad area on the east side. Public restrooms (handicap-accessible) are clearly marked and open during normal park hours and during events (www.ashevillenc.gov ). During large festivals, portable toilets are often added to serve crowds, but you can always find at least one indoor restroom in the park structure mentioned above.
Can I book Pack Square Park for a private party or event?
Yes, but you need a special permit. Any commercial or large private use (like weddings, large concerts, or bringing tents/inflatables) requires a permit from Asheville Parks & Recreation (www.ashevillenc.gov ). Contact the Parks Department’s event staff (the website lists a point of contact) well in advance. The park is often segmented for events, so coordination is required. Informally bringing a small gathering for a picnic does not require a permit, but any added infrastructure (stages, sound systems, etc.) always needs authorization.
Are there any age or dress restrictions at Pack Square Park events?
Generally, Festival events in the park are casual and all ages are welcome. Children of any age may attend free community events (and cool off in Splashville in summer). However, alcohol-centric events like Asheville Oktoberfest may be restricted to persons 21 and over, so check the event details (www.aboutasheville.com ). There is no formal dress code – Asheville is very laid-back. Most people dress comfortably in casual attire and sturdy shoes, especially if walking on grass or standing. It’s best to check specific event rules, but normally simply avoid disruptive clothing (no offensive message shirts, etc.) and you’ll fit right in.
What’s the best way to find information on what's happening at Pack Square Park?
Because Pack Square hosts events from many organizers, there’s no single source for all of it. Here are some tips: (1) Check Asheville event calendars (local newspapers or the ExploreAsheville.com site) for “Pack Square” listings. (2) Follow the Asheville Parks & Recreation social media or municipal site – they often post about big city-sponsored events (like July 4th fireworks). (3) Local non-profits often promote their festivals (e.g. Blue Ridge Pride, LEAF, Oktoberfest) on their own sites or Facebook. (4) A common approach is simply to watch downtown event signs or visit the Box Office Asheville website closer to the date. In short, combining local tourism/event sources is the way to stay updated.
Are there any food options or concessions inside Pack Square Park?
The park has no fixed concessions or permanent vendors. On a given day there is no snack bar or shop. However, during events, local food trucks and beverage booths usually set up. For example, Oktoberfest had German food trucks like Haus Heidelberg (www.exploreasheville.com ) and numerous beer stands. At other festivals you might find food carts, local restaurant pop-ups, or simply people picnicking. If you visit the park as a regular park (no festival going on), you’ll have to bring your own snacks or walk to a nearby cafe. But in short: permanent inside concessions are limited to vending carts at special events only.