The Black Mountain Blues Festival is set to return this autumn, bringing three days of live music, community spirit and cultural celebration to the heart of downtown Black Mountain, North Carolina. Running from Friday, September 26 through Sunday, September 28, the 2025 festival promises a packed programme of performances, workshops and events against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Presented by the newly formed Black Mountain Blues Society, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting blues music and its community, this year’s festival blends national and regional talent with a strong sense of place. Visitors can look forward to not only world-class music but also the town’s renowned restaurants, independent shops and Appalachian heritage.
A powerful lineup
This year’s headliners include some of the most exciting names in contemporary blues and roots music: pedal steel virtuoso Robert Randolph, powerhouse bassist and vocalist Nik West, guitar icon Eric Gales, Ra’Shad The Blues Kid, the dynamic duo Chambers DesLauriers and veteran bluesman Mac Arnold. The full artist lineup is available at www.blackmountainblues.org, with both national names and acclaimed local musicians on the bill.
In addition to performances, the festival will host educational workshops and community programming designed to celebrate and strengthen the bonds that make Black Mountain unique.
Giving back to the community
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the festival is dedicating half of its net proceeds this year to recovery efforts. It is a clear statement of purpose from the Black Mountain Blues Society, which aims to harness the power of music to heal and uplift the community.
A festival woven into the town
Events will unfold across multiple venues in downtown Black Mountain, including White Horse Black Mountain, Foothills Grange, the Old Town District, and the Black Mountain Center for the Arts. Partner spaces such as Bush Farmhouse, Hell or High Water and Peri Social House will also host events, ensuring the festival atmosphere flows through the whole town.
The festival is supported by a range of sponsors including Explore Asheville, AWM Mortgage, Swannanoa Blue Mont Stays, Hampton Inn, and the River Arts District Artists (RAD).
Tickets available now
With its combination of acclaimed artists, grassroots spirit and a commitment to community resilience, the 2025 Black Mountain Blues Festival looks set to be a highlight of the blues calendar.
Tickets are on sale now at www.blackmountainblues.org.
