Highlands, North Carolina, comes alive as the warm-weather season unfolds, inviting visitors to linger a little longer in the mountains. From art, fashion, and live music to classic cars and artisan traditions, the season offers memorable ways to experience the town’s culture, creativity, and charm.
High Style | May 16, 2026
High Style returns to Highlands with a celebration of art, cuisine, fashion, and music. Designed for visitors and locals alike, the event brings together live music, interactive art experiences, culinary offerings, local jewelry makers, and a fashion show for a stylish start to the season.
Visit https://www.highlandschamber.org/high-style/ for more information.
Highlands Outdoor Concert Series | Begins May 15–16, 2026
Live music returns downtown with Friday Night Live and Saturdays on Pine, free outdoor concerts held Friday and Saturday evenings from May through September. Visitors can bring a lawn chair, enjoy the mountain air, and settle into the easy rhythm of a Highlands weekend.
Visit https://www.highlandschamber.org/outdoor-concert-series for more information.
Highlands Motoring Festival | June 11–14, 2026
A signature summer event, Highlands Motoring Festival brings four days of classic cars, scenic driving tours, Main Street festivities, evening socials, and car shows in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Set just steps from downtown shops, restaurants, inns, and boutiques, the festival is an ideal centerpiece for a June getaway.
Visit highlandsmotoringfestival.com for more information.
Mountaintop Art & Craft Show | June 27–28 and August 29–30, 2026
This beloved two-weekend event brings more than 80 regional artisans to Highlands for demonstrations, fine art, crafts, and entertainment. Held in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, the show adds a creative, family-friendly energy to the summer season.
Visit highlandsartshow.com for more information.
Whether planning a weekend escape or a longer mountain stay, these signature events offer beautiful ways to experience Highlands through art, music, craftsmanship, classic cars, and community.