Not many concert venues consider “spirit” to be an integral part of their offerings, but that is what you will find at the White Horse Black Mountain, where community and spirit are as important as music and arts. And you can truly expect the unexpected here, from storytelling, puppets, theater and films to live music, workshops, poetry and benefit events. Come and feel connected to the local community, allow the music to lift your mind and heart, and enjoy the warm welcome that you are certain to receive. The music is eclectic and includes jazz, rock, classical, country and western. Check out the Merry Wine Market to learn something new about grapes and their products. The owners are friendly and knowledgeable about wines, and you will find that you do not need to spend an extraordinary amount of money to buy an extraordinary bottle of wine.
Another community-oriented place you will want to visit is the Black Mountain Center for the Arts, located in the old City Hall and dedicated to providing a vibrant home for the arts for the whole of the Swannanoa Valley. Ongoing classes include violin, painting and more. You are also welcome to stop by and use the pottery studio or view whatever exhibits happen to be on display when you are here. Plays and concerts take center stage in the evenings, and everything is geared toward family fun.
If wine is not your cup of tea—so to speak—then check out the amazing beer lore you will absorb at the Hop’n Blueberry Farm, where you can learn about how sustainable brewing is done. This hop-grower’s love of butterflies is just as passionate as his love of hops, and your children will delight in the butterfly house. Call ahead of time to schedule a hop tour, and if you’re feeling particularly energetic, experience one of the “Dirty Hands-On” tours. To taste some of what you were just learning about, make sure to visit the Lookout Brewing Company, where you can sample different local brews. The company offers tours as well as tastings, with homebrew supplies for sale and outdoor seating available. Here is something different: Lookout plays Mozart during the fermentation process in order to produce a “sophisticated” product!
From the earliest Cherokee tribes to the most recent of residents and tourists, people have always been attracted to the haunting beauty of Black Mountain and the Swannanoa Valley, and when you stay at one of the Black Mountain hotels listed above, you will find it easy to understand why. Book now!