Art in the Park, Shrek on stage, jazz fest, Thomas the Tank Engine and music options
THURSDAY-TUESDAY
"Shrek: The Musical," Hayes Auditorium, Lees-McRae College, Banner Elk. Tony Award-winning stage adaptation of the beloved DreamWorks film, performed by Lees-McRae College. Matinees June 12-14 at 2 p.m., evening shows June 11, 13, and 16 at 7 p.m. $20-$48
FRIDAY-SUNDAY
"Day Out With Thomas: Let's Rock, Let's Roll!," 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tweetsie Railroad, 300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock. A 20-minute ride behind Thomas the Tank Engine plus live entertainment, interactive activities, and full access to Tweetsie Railroad's attractions. Good for young kids. Advance tickets recommended. $45-$65.
SATURDAY
"Art in the Park," 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., along Park Avenue, Blowing Rock. Dozens of local and regional artists and craftspeople showcasing handmade jewelry, pottery, fiber, glass, photography, painting, and more. Free shuttle from Shoppes on the Parkway. Free admission.
SUNDAY
"Yoga on the Mountain," 11 a.m. to noon, Art of Living Retreat Center, 639 Whispering Hills Rd, Boone. Weekly outdoor yoga class with mountain views. Mats and props provided. Optional vegetarian buffet lunch after for $15. Limited to 40 attendees, ages 18 and over. Pre-registration required. Free.
🎵 Live music this weekend
WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY
"High Country Jazz Festival,” Appalachian Theatre of the High Country, 559 West King Street, Boone. Four days of jazz with headlining acts at the Appalachian Theatre, plus free performances, lectures, jazz brunches, and late-night jams around town. Headliners include Spyro Gyra (Fri.), Wycliffe Gordon (Sat.), and Emmet Cohen Trio (Sun.). Some events free, ticketed performances vary in price.
THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SUNDAY
“Town Tavern,” 1182 Main St, Blowing Rock. The Neighbors Thu at 5 p.m., Jon Boy and Lefty Fri at 9 p.m., Paul Grimshaw Sun 4-7 p.m. Free
FRIDAY
"Music in the Valle," 6 p.m. to dusk, Valle Crucis Community Park, 2892 Broadstone Rd., Banner Elk. This week: Jeff Little Trio. Live music on the lawn next to the Original Mast General Store. Suggested donation $5 per person or $10 per family.
"Music on the Lawn," 5:30-8:30 p.m., The Inn at Ragged Gardens, 203 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock. This week: Soul Benefactor. Free outdoor concert on the inn's lawn. Cash bar and lawn menu available. Bring a lawn chair and arrive early. No pets, coolers, or outside food and drinks. Free.
📆 Planning ahead
NEXT WEEKEND (JUNE 19-21)
Boonerang Music and Arts Festival, downtown Boone. This free annual festival has multiple concert stages featuring mostly artists with Boone connections. Also: local food and beer, vendor market, kids zone and silent disco! Festival music lineup and information here.
—Compiled by Matthew Mecia