Press release from the Asheville Downtown Association:
The 33rd season of Downtown After 5, presented by Prestige Subaru, kicks off Friday, July 16 from 5-9pm. For 2021, Downtown After 5 will take place the 3rd Friday of the month July – September and is held on North Lexington Avenue. Events are free and open to the public.
2021 Lineup
July 16
Acoustic Syndicate
Since 1994, Acoustic Syndicate’s unique blend of bluegrass instruments, rock sensibilities, and conscious songwriting has inspired a generation of musicians. Through 7 albums, thousands of performances, and tens-of-thousands of miles, Acoustic Syndicate has long been heralded as one of the important influences on the modern roots-music revival.
Joe Lasher
Drawing inspiration from icons such as Rodney Atkins, Eric Church, Jon Bon Jovi and Bryan Adams, Joe’s music is influenced by a variety of genres ranging from traditional country to gospel and from rock to heavy metal, creating a sound that is all his own. Joe has been touring the country since the age of 16, where he is focused on creating a full-sensory show filled with big sound and bright lights giving his audience a reason to sing and dance.
August 20
Abby Bryant & The Echoes
Built around a powerful voice and hard-driving rock ‘n’ soul rhythm section, Asheville, NC’s Abby Bryant & The Echoes has secured a fast-growing foothold in the Southeast music scene. Listeners will find it hard not to hear similarities to some of the artists that inspire the two including currently touring acts Tedeschi Trucks Band, Grace Potter and Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds.
Picante!
Picante performs original and uniquely arranged Latin rhythms, Latin jazz, rock, reggae and popular music, perfect for getting a crowd dancing.
Westsound
Playing a mix of beloved favorites from Tina Turner, Prince, Otis Redding and Aretha Franklin, Westsound delivers a fun and danceable performance.
September 17
Asheville All Stars
The All Stars show has quickly become a favorite of the season, featuring some of AVL’s best artists making music together. Curated by local musician and producer, Josh Blake, the All Stars offer a little something for everyone – from rock to hiphop, originals to covers.
LEAF Schools & Streets Young Artist Superstars
Check out the next generation of AVL All Stars from the LEAF Global Arts Schools & Streets program is a collaborative outreach program matching performing artists into schools, educational centers and housing communities.
Each summer the Asheville Downtown Association partners with five local nonprofits to sell wristbands at the event. The ADA has given more than $225,000 to area nonprofits through this program. 2021 partners are: Asheville Brewers Alliance, Asheville Mardi Gras, Asheville Music School, Blue Ridge Pride, LEAF Global Arts and Open Hearts Art Center.
Lots of local beers, ciders and seltzers on tap, as well as beverages from around Western North Carolina and regional and national brands. Wine, soda and water is also available for purchase.
We’re serving up plenty of local yumminess with food vendors: Cecelia’s Kitchen, Gypsy Queen Cuisine, Kernel Mike’s Kettle Corn, Sunshine Sammies and Tin Can Pizzeria.
Downtown After 5 is sponsored by Prestige Subaru, Budweiser of Asheville, Empire Distributors, Skyland Distributing Company, Go Minis, Ingles Markets, Gillespie Dental Associates, Explore Asheville, Crooked Tree Creative, Carolina Hemp Company, Central United Methodist Church, Mellow Mushroom, The City of Asheville, Cambria Suites, 97.7 The Brew, Asheville FM, Star 104.3, Rabbit Rabbit, Asheville Color & Imaging and Strada Italiano.
The Asheville Downtown Association is adding safety measures including credit card payments and hand sanitizing stations. Per CDC and local guidelines, unvaccinated attendees should wear a mask covering their mouth and nose. Disposable masks will be available for attendees. The ADA will monitor Covid-19 cases and trends in Buncombe County and consult with local officials prior to each event.
More information on Downtown After 5 and the Asheville Downtown Association can be found at ashevilledowntown.org.
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