GrindFest 2025 Event Schedule
Live music and performances, inspiring talks, games and competitions, and more!
Let’s hustle, network, and have a blast together at this month-long celebration of culture, entrepreneurship, and community.
GrindFest is a month-long celebration of Black business and entrepreneurship, culture, and community empowerment. This festival is a catalyst for rebuilding opportunities, strengthening local businesses, and uniting Asheville in a powerful movement of resilience and growth.
GrindFest 2025 events include a poetry slam, Brian Hamilton, an entrepreneurship luncheon, gospel inspiration, community awards, an extreme hip hop aerobic class, breakfast of champions, the Black Wall Street marketplace, a talk with the elders, a stilt walker, the opportunity tent, a lip sync battle, roots reveal, games tournament, family yard games, giveaways and prizes, games tournament finals, community tailgate, a cooking contest, and plenty of excitement!
Tuesday, May 20 – Elder Talk
An intimate and powerful evening where wisdom meets the future. This free gathering brings together esteemed elders from our community to share stories, experiences, and invaluable lessons on resilience, entrepreneurship, and cultural legacy. This event is an opportunity to honor the past, inspire the present, and build the future together. Whether you’re seeking guidance, reflection, or connection, Elder Talk will leave you enriched and motivated. Held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Pack Memorial Library, 67 Haywood Street in Asheville.
Friday, May 23 – Taste of Black Asheville
Experience the best food, music, and culture of our vibrant community! Taste your way through various dishes from local Black-owned restaurants, enjoy performances by talented artists, and connect with fellow foodies and music lovers. $25 entry fee. Held from 11-3 p.m. at A-B Tech/Mission Health Conference Center Parking Deck, Fernihurst Drive in Asheville.
Friday, May 23 – The Gospel Play Come Home
A heartwarming story of redemption and forgiveness. Get ready to experience an evening filled with powerful performances and uplifting messages. Join us for a night of music, gospel, and inspiration as we come together to celebrate the message of hope and redemption. Tickets are $24.80. Register at www.eventbrite.com/o/black-wall-street-avl-32770681167. Held from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at A-B Tech/Mission Health Conference Center Parking Deck, Fernihurst Drive in Asheville.
Saturday, May 24 – GRINDFEST 2025 Main Event
What can you expect? Live music and performances—enjoy some of the best local and regional talent. Workshops and networking—build connections and gain insights from industry leaders. Epic dance moments—be part of the biggest line dance in North Carolina. Food and culture—a curated brunch experience and immersive cultural showcases. Games and competitions—pitch contests, arcade tournaments, and more. From inspiring talks to vibrant nightlife, GrindFest is about celebrating resilience, growth, and the power of community. Whether you’re here to learn, build, or just vibe, this festival is for you. Held from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at A-B Tech/Mission Health Conference Center Parking Deck, Fernihurst Drive in Asheville.
Saturday, May 24 – Slay & Lay: The Baddest Braider Showdown
The most skilled hands in the Southeast will battle it out for the ultimate title. Come cheer, vibe, and witness creativity at its finest. Held from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at A-B Tech/Mission Health Conference Center Parking Deck, Fernihurst Drive in Asheville.
Saturday, May 24 – Family Feud
Get ready for a high-energy, laugh-out-loud showdown as teams battle it out in this live event where quick thinking and teamwork can lead to victory, and a cash prize. Audience participation is encouraged! Come cheer for your favorite players and enjoy the fun. Held from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at A-B Tech/Mission Health Conference Center Parking Deck, Fernihurst Drive in Asheville.
Saturday, May 24 – WNC Housing Summit
An essential event tailored to support real estate agents, renters, and homeowners across Western North Carolina. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, rent, or simply gain a better understanding of housing resources and market changes, this summit is for you. Presented in partnership with Black Wall Street AVL, Habitat for Humanity, OnTrack WNC, Pisgah Legal Services, and more! Held from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at Black Wall Street AVL, 8 River Arts Place in Asheville.
Tuesday, May 27 – Empower Hour
Hear from local changemakers and community leaders about their journeys toward equity and justice. Come ready to be moved, uplifted, and motivated to take action in your own life. Join us for this free and inspiring evening of real stories about overcoming challenges and embracing change. Held from 12 noon to 1 p.m. at A-B Tech/Mission Health Conference Center Parking Deck, Fernihurst Drive in Asheville.
Tuesday, May 27 – River Revival
Celebrate the beauty of our local river and the communities that care for it. River Revival features live music, food vendors, educational booths, and hands-on activities centered around environmental justice and cultural connection. A family-friendly festival for all ages. Held from 5:30-7 p.m. at A-B Tech/Mission Health Conference Center Parking Deck, Fernihurst Drive in Asheville.
Thursday, May 29 – After Glow
A day filled with music, art, and good vibes. Whether you’re a fan of rock, hip-hop, or electronic music, there’s something for everyone at the GRINDFest finale event for this year’s festival. Let’s make some unforgettable memories together. Held from 5-11 p.m. at The Radical, 95 Roberts Street in Asheville.
Register for any of these events by going to grindfestavl.com/events.
