Home to over 700 Asheville artists, the River Arts District is a community in Asheville that borders the French Broad River and experienced some of the most devastating impacts from last year's hurricane. Many of the 26 buildings that line the District were impacted by floodwaters. The Upper River Arts District, or Upper RAD, had a soft opening the weekend of November 9-10, 2024. The reopening corresponded with the annual art Studio Stroll which occurs each year.
Hosted less than 2 months after the hurricane, this event was a testimony to the resilient spirit of the community and the many artists that call Asheville home. Since then, the community has been building momentum and coming back stronger than ever. Thanks to the generous donations of many, the River Arts District Association was able to provide emergency stipends to every artist in the RAD, fund November's soft opening event, and open a downtown location.
The Upper RAD, which includes Roberts Street, Artful Way, Depot Street, Clingman Ave, and the newly opened RADA Outpost in downtown Asheville (located on North Lexington Ave), is lined with artist studios that are all open. Over 340 artists are currently showing work in RAD, and their calendars are filled with upcoming events that include flameworking, studio socials, glassblowing, sketching, wood burning, basket weaving, pop-up markets, and more. 
Support The Cause
The recovery is now a revival, and Asheville's artists are welcoming visitors and residents to return to Asheville and be part of the comeback! Buy local art, attend classes, and experience this vibrant community firsthand. Here are some other specific ways that you can support Asheville artists:
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Visit Upper RAD anytime from Thursday through Sunday to see local artists at work
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Follow along on one of the many ArtsAVL Tours offered
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Join in on an art stroll every second Saturday
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Buy local art from Asheville artists
Discover Your Asheville Home
If you've been considering making this creative mountain community your home or second home, being close to "the comeback" might be an especially exciting prospect during this River Arts District renaissance. Live in this art epicenter and be inspired daily by finding your own slice of River Arts real estate to call home or become convenient neighbors to both the River Arts District and downtown Asheville by exploring West Asheville real estate. This hip and eccentric neighborhood is home to award-winning restaurants, breweries, venues, vintage clothing shops, and record shops.
The RAD, downtown, and West Asheville all embody the unique bohemian vibe of our "weird" and wonderful city, while still preserving that warm and welcoming hometown feel. Our beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains are ready to welcome you—whether it's for a week, a month, or a lifetime!