"Asheville Weekend Roundup: Mountain Fair, Tattoo Fest, and Fall Fun"

Good morning, this is your Asheville Local Frequency for Saturday, September 13. The sun is shining over the mountains this morning, with a crisp start in the upper 50s and a high near 80 expected, so it’s a perfect weekend to get outside and embrace that early hint of fall. Kicking things off, the NC Mountain State Fair is in full swing all weekend in Fletcher. If you’re craving deep-fried delights, thrilling rides, blue-ribbon livestock, or quirky contests, this is the place to be. The fair is famous for its blend of down-home fun and the chance to taste some downright wild foods you might not see anywhere else. Take the family, bring your appetite, and don’t forget to visit the exhibit halls to celebrate Western North Carolina’s proud agricultural roots. For those feeling adventurous or in need of a fresh look, the Asheville Tattoo Arts Festival continues at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center. It’s a spectacle of self-expression, boasting live tattooing by artists from across the country, plus jaw-dropping circus acts and sideshows. Whether you’re inking up or simply want to immerse yourself in festival energy, there’s fun for all ages and plenty of vendors and live performances. If you’re looking for something for the little ones or want to explore the vibrant fall colors sprouting, don’t miss the Fall Fest at Ross Farm out in Candler from noon to four. Greenhouses are bursting with mums and pumpkins, artisan markets are set up for some unique finds, and there’s a scavenger hunt, games, and even a potting station to get your hands dirty. Tonight at the Asheville Community Theatre, Fringe and ACT present Shoptopolis, an offbeat, late-night theater experience where local performers bring Asheville’s quirks to the stage. Curtain goes up at 8, and you can expect the unexpected alongside plenty of laughs. Film buffs, venture out to the Diana Wortham Theatre, where the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival is back for its second evening in Asheville. You’ll catch adrenaline-filled tales of adventure sports and nature, all supporting environmental causes closer to home. If shopping is your calling, Tanger Outlets Asheville is hosting its Catch the Fall Savings event all weekend, pairing deep discounts with games, prizes, and sweet local treats. It’s a festive atmosphere perfect for families looking for some extra fun with their retail therapy. In sports, UNC Asheville’s cross country teams are competing at the Furman Invitational today, building on early-season wins. Keep an eye on these Bulldogs as they represent the city with grit and determination. A word of caution for residents in the northern neighborhoods—NC Wildlife confirmed that a black bear was shot in self-defense after repeated house break-ins. Please be extra mindful of BearWise basics as wildlife activity can rise this time of year. And for those looking to make a positive impact, Hearts with Hands is still seeking volunteers and support as they continue recovery work one year after This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.