Downtown After 5 has become a staple of Asheville’s cultural calendar, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to experience live music in the heart of our vibrant city. This year, each event is centered around highlighting a nonprofit partner with a theme that celebrates diverse musical genres, food and beverage offerings, local makers, and community initiatives. Each Downtown After 5 event draws an enthusiastic crowd of between 5,000 to 6,000 attendees to North Lexington Avenue, transforming it into a vibrant hub of music, dance, and community.
April 19 | Psychedelic Funk
In partnership with the Mosaic Art Walk, an event supporting 15 nonprofit organizations through the United Way, we’ll kick off the series with a blast of color and sound. Empire Strikes Brass will headline the evening, supported by opener Magenta Sunshine. The event will be emceed by comedian Kim Richardson, setting the stage for a night of immersive funk and psychedelic grooves.
May 17 | Yacht Rock
Teaming up with Blue Ridge Pride, we invite you to smooth sail through the sounds of Yacht Rock Schooner, with Lazr Luvr opening the night. Our emcee, DIVINE the Bearded Lady will ensure a memorable evening for all.
June 21 | Juneteenth
In a special collaboration with the MLK Foundation, we celebrate Juneteenth with the soulful Sierra Green & the Giants headlining and Lyric setting the mood.
July 19 | AVL Fest Kickoff
The official kick-off to AVL Fest, in support of Asheville FM, we’re bringing to the stage Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast as headliners, with The Greenliners opening.
August 16 | LEAF Downtown
In collaboration with LEAF Global Arts, we’re excited to bring back LEAF Downtown at Downtown After 5. Tito Puente Jr. will be headlining the event, with the LEAF Kono Band opening.
September 20 | Outdoor Rec Fest
Closing out the series is September’s Outdoor Rec Fest with Riverlink. Featuring headliner Oliver Hazard and opener Paul McDonald. Celebrate Asheville’s outdoor lifestyle by engaging with our outdoor recreation partners and vendors.
Downtown After 5 is more than just a concert series; it’s a community staple that celebrates the diversity and creativity of Asheville. Each event is free to the public, thanks to the generous support of our sponsors and partners. Food and beverage vendors will be on-site, with a portion of proceeds supporting the nonprofit partners associated with each event.