It’s been said that “there’s something about the southland in the springtime.” New baby goats are arriving weekly at the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site in Flat Rock, NC. A pair of house finches who crafted a tidy nest on my porch weeks ago are now awaiting the arrival of their 5 chicks. The cherry blossom tree in the front yard is heavy with pink blooms. Everywhere you look, new life is bursting forth as winter transitions into spring.  Our Mast Store communities are also celebrating the season with activities the whole family will enjoy. Below is an offering of a few of the many events we’re looking forward to enjoying this April.

Valle Crucis, NC
Throughout the month, get your toes tappin’ to delightful live music at the Original Store. The musicians cue up around noon and the entertainment lasts until 2 p.m. From Appalachian and old-time music to Celtic and bluegrass tunes, a couple hours of live music around the pot-bellied stove or on the back porch (weather permitting) is the perfect way to enjoy a spring afternoon in the High Country. For more information, click HERE.

Boone, NC
One of our favorite music festivals in North Carolina returns the last weekend in April. Merlefest 2016 is jam-packed with incredible artists performing on 13 stages for the four-day event. This year's lineup is exceptionally exciting. With headliners like John Prine, Steep Canyon Rangers, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Jason Isbell, you won't want to miss this year's Merlefest. It’s only a 40 minute drive from Boone to Wilkesboro. Get your tickets for this Mast General Store sponsored event HERE.
 

Asheville, NC
In Asheville, Biltmore Blooms is in full swing with a stunning array of tulips, peonies, hydrangeas, daffodils, and azaleas ushering in springtime cheer at the Estate. For updates on what's flowering now, check out the Bloom Report HERE for weekly updates. Plan your visit by clicking HERE.

Hendersonville, NC
Try the luxurious Fields of Gold Farm Goats' Milk products in the Hendersonville Store this weekend. As gardening season begins, treat your skin to this nutrient-rich and deeply hydrating soap. Check out these fantastic products for yourself during the in-store demonstration from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. this Saturday, April 16th. There's information HERE.

Winston-Salem, NC
The historic Cobblestone Market is back underway in Winston-Salem. Stop by this independent farmers’ market on Saturday morning from 9 a.m. until noon for your weekly provisions. From locally raised meats and farm fresh eggs to tasty pastries and jams, it's easy to see why the Market has been a celebrated tradition in Salem for over 200 years. For directions and more information, click HERE.

Columbia, SC
In South Carolina, Columbia is kicking off their growing season with the Soda City Market on Main Street. Downtown is the place to be on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Pick up groceries for the week, get coffee with a friend, and pop into Mast Store Columbia for a visit while you're downtown. HERE are the details.

Knoxville, TN
The Mast Store in Knoxville has "gone to the dogs" with a full weekend of events featuring our furry friends. Small Breed Rescue of East TN is helping canines find foster and forever homes at the store this Saturday, April 16th, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. Info HERE.  And on Sunday, April 17th, H.A.L.T. is also hosting an adoption event at the Knoxville Store from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. Info HERE.

For a full listing of events, take a peek at our community calendars by clicking on the name of the city you're visiting above. Wherever you find yourself this spring, we hope you make a little time to enjoy the beautiful weather and stunning blooms with those you love.