Title: Eventful Weekend Ahead in Asheville - Derby Festivities, River Arts Displays, and More

Good morning, this is your Asheville Local Frequency for Saturday, May third.

It is a beautiful spring weekend here in Asheville, and there is no shortage of things to do around town. Let us start with a heads-up for drivers: one lane of I-240 near downtown remains closed this morning, so give yourself a little extra time if you are heading into or out of the city. Expect some delay especially as folks head out to enjoy the weekend’s activities.

A big event on the national stage is the Kentucky Derby, which runs today for its one hundred and fifty first time. While the Derby is happening in Kentucky, plenty of Asheville bars, restaurants, and breweries will be hosting watch parties with themed drinks and festivities. Whether you are a lifelong horse racing fan or just in it for the fancy hats and mint juleps, there will be lots of local spots getting in the Derby spirit.

Closer to home, Hot Springs is back open after seven months of repairs, and the town is celebrating in style this weekend. Expect live music, food vendors, and a chance to soak up the mountain views in one of Western North Carolina’s most beloved getaways. If you are seeking some outdoor adventure and a sense of community, Hot Springs is the perfect destination today.

In sports and wellness news, the Asheville Chamber Challenge 5K is encouraging teams and individuals to lace up for a fun run that supports health and teamwork. Participants will be winding through scenic downtown and adjacent neighborhoods, so cheer on your friends and neighbors if you see them passing by.

Over in the River Arts District, some of Asheville’s youngest citizens are making waves. Middle schoolers are turning their creativity toward reimagining the River Arts District, showing off projects that bring fresh ideas for sustainability and public art. Their work is on display today, offering a glimpse of what the next generation has in store for our city.

It has been a strong week for Asheville’s craft beer scene. Breweries in Asheville and Mills River took home top honors at the 2025 World Beer Cup, cementing our region’s reputation as a brewing hot spot. Be sure to stop by your favorite taproom and raise a glass to celebrate their success.

If you are looking to make a difference, the Hard 2 Recycle event is happening today from 10 AM to 2 PM at A.C. Reynolds High School. Bring out hard-to-recycle items and help keep Asheville beautiful and green.

And for those who love a good rally, earlier this week Asheville was one of many cities across the country participating in May Day and International Workers Day events. Crowds gathered in Pack Square to call for stronger workers’ rights, better access to healthcare, and more support for public education. It is a reminder that community voices are alive and strong in the heart of Asheville.

The weather is shaping up to be perfect for all of these activities, with sunny skies and highs expected in the low to mid-70s. Whatever your plans, get out and make the most of this vibrant Saturday.

This has been Asheville Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.