From Staff Reports

BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. — The biannual LEAF Festival in Black Mountain has been officially canceled for the year and postponed until fall 2027.

Organizers stated the pause is necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization following the financial strain of past cancellations, reduced funding, and Tropical Storm Helend recovery efforts.

While the signature weekend festival is on hold, LEAF Global Arts is still maintaining its community mission with several scaled-down and alternative programs.

Key details regarding the changes and ongoing events include the following:

• Official postponement: The flagship October weekend festival at Lake Eden has been pushed to 2027 to protect the nonprofit’s financial health.

• Ongoing programs: The organization continues to host smaller community gatherings and cultural events. One can stay up-to-date on these cultural pop-ups and learning sessions through the official LEAF Global Arts Events Calendar.

• Youth and education: Summer camps, LEAF Schools & Streets, and LEAF International programming continue to operate, supported by their downtown Asheville venue.

• Ticket and donation support: If an individual is holding tickets for the event, or wishes to support the organization directly during this time, he or she can find ticket resolution options and the Artist Relief Fund via the LEAF Global Arts Donate portal.