Asheville Reporter

The Festival of Neighborhoods is scheduled for Saturday, September 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Asheville.

The Neighborhood Advisory Committee invites all Asheville residents to gather for a day focused on community interaction, learning, and family fun. The event aims to strengthen the bond between residents, neighborhood associations, and local organizations, fostering a harmonious and thriving community.

Admission is free and open to everyone.

Event Highlights:

- **Meet Asheville’s Neighborhood Organizers**: Representatives from various neighborhood organizations will be present to showcase their contributions to Asheville's resilience. Attendees can learn about projects, initiatives, and volunteering opportunities.

- **Festival Fun**: Activities include an inflatable obstacle course, a pop-up bike park, fire truck tours, food vendors, DJ music, yard games with Rec & Roll, and interactive entertainment throughout the day.

- **Local Government and Services**: City employees from departments such as Police, Fire, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Transportation, and the City Clerk’s office will be available. Additionally, representatives from the County Tax Assessor's office and local mental health and healthcare providers will be present.

- **Neighborhood Resilience Building**: In observance of Emergency Preparedness Month (September), the Asheville Fire Department will provide crucial information on emergency readiness.

“The Festival of Neighborhoods is a fun, free event for community members to connect, share their ideas and learn together,” said Kristina Israel, Communication and Public Engagement Manager with the City of Asheville. “It’s a great opportunity to find out about all the great things that are happening in the community and celebrate the rich diversity that makes our city so special.”

Community-based organizations interested in participating can inquire about free booth spaces using an online form. Volunteers can sign up via the volunteer sign-up page.

About the Neighborhood Advisory Committee:

The Neighborhood Advisory Committee was established to advise City Council on neighborhood needs within Asheville’s zoning and planning jurisdiction. The committee works to strengthen neighborhood identity by facilitating communication between neighborhoods and City offices. More information about volunteer opportunities with City of Asheville Boards and Commissions is available online.