Asheville Reporter

Saturday, September 14, the Festival of Neighborhoods will take place at Martin Luther King Jr. Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., regardless of weather conditions. The event aims to highlight Asheville’s neighborhoods and provide an interactive glimpse into their history and culture. Various local organizations will be present to support these communities with diverse services.

Organizations attending include My Daddy Taught Me That, Buncombe County Tax Assessor’s Office, A-B Tech Community College, Verner Center for Early Learning, and Citizens’ Climate Lobby. Admission is free and open to everyone.

“The Festival of Neighborhoods is more than just an event—it’s a vibrant celebration of the rich diversity that defines our city and a key opportunity for building meaningful connections within our community," said Jaik Smith, a member of the Neighborhood Advisory Committee. "It brings together neighborhoods, local non-profits, and city services, creating a space where everyone can engage and collaborate. Now in its second year post-pandemic, the Festival continues to expand, offering even more fun and excitement with each passing year.”

Event highlights include:

- **Meet Asheville’s Neighborhood Organizers**: Representatives from various neighborhood organizations will be available to discuss their work contributing to Asheville's resilience and offer information on projects, initiatives, and volunteer opportunities.

- **Festival Fun**: Activities such as an inflatable obstacle course race, a pop-up bike park ride, fire truck exploration, food vendors offering hot meals, DJ music for dancing, yard games with Rec & Roll staffers, and interactive entertainment throughout the day.

- **Local Government Services**: Attendees can meet City employees from departments like Police, Fire, Public Works, Parks and Recreation; Transportation; City Clerk’s office; County Tax Assessor; mental health providers; healthcare providers; and local literacy programs.

- **Neighborhood Resilience Building**: In observance of Emergency Preparedness Month (September), the Asheville Fire Department will provide tips on preparing for emergency events.

The Neighborhood Advisory Committee advises City Council on neighborhood needs within Asheville’s zoning and planning jurisdiction. It works to strengthen neighborhood identity by facilitating communication between neighborhoods and City offices. Information about volunteer opportunities with City of Asheville Boards and Commissions will also be available at the festival.