At the recent MerleFest, the nation’s premier Americana/bluegrass festival in Wilkesboro, an emerging act from our region, Upstream Rebellion, not only made its debut at the gathering as part of the band competition, the members also walked away immensely inspired. 

Regional country/rock artist Jon Cox will perform at 8 p.m. Thursday, June 5, at The Scotsman in Waynesville.

The Asheville singer-songwriter rolls through an array of classic country gold and rock melodies. Known as “high-energy outlaw music,” Cox is a rising voice in Western North Carolina. 

The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) will present “Art & Yoga: Embodiment & Creative Expression,” a new class series designed to nourish both body and soul. 

The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) is now presenting “Form,” its newest themed exhibit on display at the Haywood Handmade Gallery, located at the HCAC in downtown Waynesville. 

A cherished gathering of locals and visitors alike, “Art After Dark” will launch its 2025 season from 6-9 p.m. Friday, June 6, in downtown Waynesville. 

There will be a special concert in memory of late Haywood County banjo great Steve Sutton from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, June 8, at the Lake Junaluska Conference Center. 

A special production of “Next to Normal” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. June 6-7, 12-14 and 2 p.m. and June 8 and 15 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville. 

A long-anticipated recreation project in Haywood County took a significant step forward on June 2 as commissioners accepted a bid for the construction of Raccoon Creek Bike Park. 

As part of the multi-year America 250 NC effort, Haywood County’s Sons of the American Revolution, Daughters of the American Revolution and the Haywood County America 250 NC team will host a historical presentation by George Washington’s favorite general — sort of. 

Hands off Haywood will host a rally and speakers beginning at noon on Saturday, June 14 at the Historic Haywood County Court House, 285 Main St. in Waynesville.

In recognition of Flag Day, rally organizers have purchased small American flags to distribute to participants.