Annual Events
TINY MUSIC FESTIVALS
Each year, we host three intimate festivals — one for each working season in Spring, Summer, and Fall. We call them “tiny” because we intentionally limit attendance to 200 people or fewer, fostering a sense of closeness and connection. These festivals are made possible thanks to the generous grant support from the Madison County Tourism Development Association (MCTDA).
As Wendell Berry reminds us:
“Community… is the smallest unit that can be self-sustaining.”
SPRING FEST
Doggett Gap celebrates Appalachia’s rich and evolving traditions through a dynamic blend of music, folklife, and craft.
Building on the success of our Fine Tuned Sessions, this one-day festival brings together tradition-bearers and innovative artists for an inspiring musical dialogue. Doggett Gap offers a family-friendly experience with 5-7 musical acts throughout the day. In addition to captivating performances, the festival features folklife and craft workshops that invite you to engage with the region’s living heritage.
Join us for a day of music, tradition, and creativity in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
SUMMER FEST
LIGHTNING BUG invites you into the magical world of Fireflies and An Eccentric multi-genre musical experience that bridges ARTISTS and music lovers of all abilities.
This multi-genre, cross-generational festival not only introduced new audiences to Rare Bird’s unique offerings but also highlighted and supported artists with disabilities. Lightning Bug fosters inclusivity by promoting attendance for adults with developmental disabilities and benefits the Rare Bird Inclusive Theatre Camp.
With 4-6 dynamic musical acts throughout the day, Lightning Bug radiates creativity, community, and the magic of shared experience.
FALL FEST
Bandaloop invites you into a world of magic and myth — a multi-genre musical experience that bridges generations, CULTURE, and sparks the imagination.
Designed to welcome new audiences to Rare Bird, Bandaloop kicks off with a Friday night concert followed by 4-6 captivating performances on Saturday. Stay tuned for details as we craft an unforgettable weekend where tradition, innovation, and wonder intertwine.
FREE COMMUNITY CONCERT + POTLUCK
STRAIGHT TO LOVE
Born in the wake of Hurricane Helene, this free community concert and potluck is now an annual gift from Rare Bird to the community offering what we do best; healing through music, art, community, and nature. As our programming year draws to a close, we will gather to celebrate resilience, grassroots organizing, and community reliance. Together, we share gratitude and deepen the roots we've cultivated together.
CULTURAL CROSSROADS
Twice a Year, Tradition Meets Innovation.
Experience two unforgettable concerts where we pair an Appalachian tradition-bearer with a modern innovator of old-time music. These unique collaborations celebrate the rich heritage and evolving spirit of Appalachian sound. Stay tuned for announcements — you won’t want to miss these extraordinary musical journeys!
This concerts series is made possible thanks to the generous grant support from the South Arts’ In These Mountains grant.
PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS
Inclusive Theater Camps
Two enriching programs offering unique experiences designed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities:
Spring Intensive in Black Mountain:
A 4-day immersive camp at Camp Lakey Gap in Black Mountain, NC, where participants and mentors come together to create, rehearse, and perform. Through workshops, rehearsals, and community-building activities, we nurture creativity, confidence, and joy in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Year-Long Pilot Program in Asheville:
Starting in Summer 2025, this weekly day program meets one day per week for a year in Asheville, culminating in a collaboratively created musical. Participants will work alongside teaching artists, volunteers, and peers, building skills, friendships, and an inspiring final performance for the public.