In light of the challenges Asheville and Western North Carolina have faced after Hurricane Helene, the Asheville Downtown Association shares an important update regarding the Annual Holiday Parade. Due to the exhaustion of city resources—such as police, public works, barricades, and more—this year’s Annual Holiday Parade will be transformed into a Holiday Jamboree at Pack Square Park. Having the event in one place will allow the City of Asheville to devote more staff and infrastructure to the Hurricane Helene response.

The Jamboree, to be held on Saturday, November 23, will provide an opportunity for our community to come together, celebrate, and express our gratitude to our first responders, civil servants, and volunteers who have made significant contributions during this time.

The Holiday Jamboree will feature performance groups on Pack Square stage. Business and corporate entries will have the opportunity to be listed as sponsors and will be provided a 10x10 booth space. Food trucks and beverage vendors are also invited to join, along with artists and retailers who can showcase their work in the marketplace.

Those interested in participating in the Holiday Jamboree should visit AshevilleDowntown.org for more information and to apply online.

As a non-profit organization, the Downtown Association incurs costs associated with hosting events like this. They kindly ask that those who can contribute consider the suggested participation fees, and will continue to rely on the generosity of sponsors to help make this event a success.

If you have any questions about the event or how you can best fit in, please don't hesitate to reach out. The Asheville Downtown Association is committed to fostering community and economic resilience during this period of recovery for Asheville and Western North Carolina.

Important Details

• Date: Saturday, November 23
• Time: 11am - 1pm 
• Location: Pack Square Park
• Theme: Winter Wonderland or Asheville Strong
• Application Deadline: November 1, 2024

The 2024 online application + payment (online or check) is due by November 1. 

Cost to Participate

Entry fees allow the cost of producing the Jamboree to be covered. The ADA understands that this may be a difficult time for groups to pay for participation; however, they ask that those who can, pay the suggested participation fee.  

• Business Stage Performance $350
• Business Tent Space $275
• Non-Profit Stage Performance $225
• Non-Profit Tent Space $175
• Youth Group Stage Performance $100
• Youth Group Tent Space $50
• Public School ROTC or Band (No Fee)
• Tent Rental ($50)

*There is a limited number of tents and tent spaces available; email [email protected] to confirm availability. 

Find the application form here.

Source: Asheville Downtown Association