Burton Street Agricultural Fair is still on, just a little later. The party has been moved to Saturday, September 13 from 12-6pm to avoid tomorrow’s thunderstorms. Join us at noon to kick off the festivities with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony for the neighborhood’s brand-new playground and basketball court. Come help us celebrate!
Burton Street Community Association and Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) invite community members to celebrate the vibrant legacy of the historic Burton Street neighborhood and the spirit of civic leader Edward W. Pearson at the annual Burton Street Ag Fair from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 13. The family-friendly festival features music, games, crafts, inflatables, food vendors, and a 3v3 basketball tournament with a cash prize.
Asheville’s Newest Playground, Revitalized Basketball Court
A special ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled to start the fun at noon and officially dedicate the new playground and basketball court at Burton Street Park and Community Center. The fair takes place on the park and community center’s open lawn, located on 134 Burton Street in West Asheville.
“This new playground and basketball court are a wonderful addition to the Burton Street community and the center – and we can’t wait to see kids and families enjoy them for years to come,” according to APR Director D. Tyrell McGirt. “We believe all Ashevillains deserve beautiful, safe spaces to play, and we’re committed to continuing the City of Asheville’s investments in places that make our city so special. Our team is incredibly proud of our ongoing commitment to provide high-quality recreational spaces for all residents and preserve the unique character of neighborhoods like Burton Street.”
Participants interested in the 3v3 basketball tournament can sign up at AVLREC.com.
Building on Pearson’s Legacy
The revitalized Burton Street Ag Fair was launched 12 years ago and honors the vision of Edward W. Pearson, the founder of the historic Burton Street neighborhood who held the first Buncombe County District Agricultural Fair in 1913. The original fair drew Black families from across western North Carolina to enjoy parades, amusement rides, and competitions in agriculture, baked goods, sewing, and more. Learn more about Pearson and the history of the community center at Park Views: Burton Street Community Center.
Celebrating 112 years of community, the modern festival is led by the ethos “We Rise By Lifting Other Up” and offers a great opportunity for people from throughout the city to discover the spirit of the Burton Street neighborhood and explore the new park amenities.
In addition to Burton Street Community Association and APR, Burton Street Ag Fair is supported by Asheville Buncombe Institute of Parity Achievement (ABIPA), Health Engagement Leading to Prevention (HELP), Health Education Resource Services (HERS), St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, and John R. Hayes High Steppin’ Majorette & Drum Corp.