The hills, and mountains and towns, are alive with the sound of music ... and the beauty of blooms, the talents of local artists, and delicious wafts of delectable treats. From music to food, popular festivals are happening near you soon. We’re highlighting several in our communities that you won’t want to miss.

P.S. While you’re planning those festival trips, be sure to pack all the gear you’ll need for a good festival experience. See our Top 5 Picks to see you through at the end of the blog.

In the Boone Area
MerleFest runs April 25th - April 28th. This festival honors Eddy Merle Watson and was founded in 1988 in his memory as a fundraiser for the local community college. This event is all about the music Doc Watson called “traditional plus.” It blends old-fashioned styles with those of whatever participants are in the mood to play. It’s one of the most auspicious music festivals in the country, and if you get a chance to go, take it and be sure to stop by the Mast Store booth in the Vendor Village. Visit the site for more.

Hendersonville
Garden Jubilee is May 25 & 26 - A garden lover's one-stop shop for plans, garden accessories, and expert advice from garden gurus. Might want to bring the U-Haul to take back all the can't-miss finds you'll encounter among the literally thousands of veggies, flowers, and trees-- not to mention the other products available. Vendors even offer pick-up so you don't have to carry your items around all day. Visit their site for schedules and more info.

Asheville
LEAF (Lake Eden Arts Festival) lasts from May 10th through the 12th - Music, art, a little bit of everything from the performing arts is at your fingertips when you join the LEAF arts festival this May. Enjoy live performances and lots of opportunities to check out hundreds of vendors. Check their site for details. 

Greenville
Greek Festival runs May 16th through 19th as Greenville becomes Greekville. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional food, drink, dance, and culture. The plaka is filled with vendors featuring worry beads, coin skirts, sponges, and soaps. And for the kiddos, don't miss the Carnival Playland with face painting, rides, and other activities. It all happens at St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Downtown Greenville.

Knoxville
Rhythm 'n Blooms Festival is May 17th - 19th. This event is all about Knoxville and the roots, music, and culture of East Tennessee. The city's musical heritage is at the center of this event and is highlighted with performances set against the gorgeous backdrop of the mountains that have so influenced its culture and music. 

Waynesville 
The Whole Bloomin’ Thing is May 11th in Historic Frog Level, just around the corner off Main Street in Downtown Waynesville. Celebrate the beginning of the growing season. Food, flowers, vegetable plants, and more are available at the festival. Local artists and their nature-inspired works will also be on display, and live entertainment will be on-going, as will opportunities to support local businesses and explore historic buildings.

Top 5 Must-Have’s for Festival-Goers

A Portable Lounger Chair
The portable chair is non-negotiable for these types of events. Trust me, you are gonna get tired and need a place to park your keister. No better way to be comfortable and feel right at home no matter where you are than a quality lounger chair. Single or two-seater, you’ll love the convenience and efficiency they offer like cupholders and roll-tote carry that makes transportation easy-peasy. Find your favorite festival seat from ENO, Big Agnes, GCI Outdoor, and Kelty Pack.

Raincoat
You never know when a little rain might fall. And you do not want to walk around outside drenched and uncomfortable for the duration of your day. So, be prepared with a reliable raincoat. We know our raincoats, and there are several to choose from at Mast. To find the one that best suits your needs, you need to decide what features are important to you (where the pockets are located, does it have pit zips, how does the hood function, is it waterproof and breathable). The answers might depend on the time of year and fluctuating temps.

Great brands for finding your perfect raincoat are Patagonia, The North Face, Kühl, Columbia, and Marmot.

Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is paramount to your day spent in the open outdoors. You can choose from a variety of styles, sizes, and features with several brands: Hydro Flask, CamelBak, YETI, Hydrapak,  Nalgene, and Platypus.

Sunscreen
Protect yourself first and foremost. A sunburn can sneak up on you on the cloudiest of days, so go in armed with a good sunscreen. Try our natural options from Badger and Burt’s Bees. 

Fanny Pack
What was old is new again. The fanny pack is making a comeback with outdoor adventurers, savvy moms and dads everywhere, and travelers. Perfect festival wear, the fanny pack is updated and ready to be your go-to carry-all this season. Choose from styles from Patagonia, KAVU, Cotopaxi, and Mountainsmith.

Enjoy these upcoming events and be sure to go in prepared so you can focus on the fun.