Asheville Sunday: Art, Jazz, Politics, and Community Connections

Good morning, this is your Asheville Local Frequency for Sunday, August 10, 2025. If you’re stepping outside this morning, expect mild summer weather with temperatures making their way up to around 80 degrees this afternoon. The sun is shining, and it’s a classic Asheville day to get out and explore. This Sunday is packed with things to do around town, starting with some creative inspiration in the River Arts District. The Re.Imagine Gallery and 310 Art invite you to a whimsical, thought-provoking event called Envision This: From Lost To Found. The opening runs from 1 to 5 PM, featuring artists who are reimagining materials with humor and heart. Enjoy delicious food and drinks as you chat with the creators and explore what recycling truly looks like when Asheville artists get involved. Just up the road, the Asheville Art Museum welcomes visitors for a special Drink & Draw from 1 to 4 PM. Sip a drink, pick up some art supplies, and let loose with your own creative side right at the café tables. Jazz fans can settle in for the Altamont Jazz Group’s Sunday Live show in the Windgate Atrium, blending smooth rhythms with a laid-back gallery vibe. Later today, all eyes turn downtown as Senator Bernie Sanders arrives at the ExploreAsheville.com Arena for his Fighting Oligarchy town hall. Doors open at 3:30 PM, and the discussion kicks off at 6. Sanders will dive into how we push back against corporate power, touching on national issues that ripple here in Western North Carolina. The event was moved to a larger venue to fit what’s expected to be a big crowd, so if you’re interested in political change and a slice of history, there’s still time to RSVP and join the conversation. On the community front, Highland Christian Church teamed up with Convoy of Hope this morning to offer free haircuts, groceries, shoes, and school supplies to Asheville residents. Their mission is all about making sure local folks start the school year supported and strong. With many Western North Carolina families still recovering from Tropical Storm Helene last year, events like this show how Asheville continues to rally together. For families looking for fun, head over to Asheville Mall where the Family Fun Festival runs from three all the way until ten tonight. Expect games, food, and local music—an ideal way to wrap up the weekend with the kids. On the music scene, the Orange Peel hosts Cary Fridley & Down South for their Country Brunch at eleven. Get a plate of southern favorites and tap your toes to live tunes with friends, all before noon. The art world isn’t slowing down either. American Folk Gallery’s ongoing exhibit, The Ties That Bind, is still open downtown, showcasing local artists who turn Appalachian tradition into contemporary masterpieces. A quick update for local news watchers: Asheville officials continue work on water infrastructure after recent landslides and road delays. If you’re heading toward Newfound Gap, allow extra travel time as repairs remain u This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.