It has been one year since Hurricane Helene forever changed the Swannanoa Valley. From September 26–28, the community will gather not only to remember but also to celebrate the strength, unity, and resiliency that have carried them through.
The Celebration of Resiliency begins on Friday evening with music workshops at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts from 5 to 8 p.m.
5 PM – Film – Rev. Billy C. Wirtz: The Florida Chitlin’ Circuit
This workshop features Rev. Billy C. Wirtz presenting The Florida Chitlin’ Circuit, a 45-minute documentary exploring Florida’s vibrant mid-20th-century circuit for Black entertainers. Through narrative and interviews with legends like Bobby Rush, Betty LaVette, and Sam Moore (of Sam & Dave), the film offers firsthand stories from those who lived and loved the scene. The screening is followed by a Q&A session for an engaging, behind-the-scenes look at this historic chapter in music.
7 PM – Blues Society: A Feature Documentary
The Blues Society is a powerful re-examination of the 1960s, told through the story of the Memphis Country Blues Festival (1966–1969). Featuring legends like Furry Lewis and Robert Wilkins alongside the young artists who fought to celebrate African American music in a segregated South, the film captures a movement driven by passion, artistry, and cultural change. Through rare footage, interviews, and performances, it asks a timely question: Why do the Blues still matter today?
On Saturday, the festivities continue with children and family programming in Town Square from noon until 5 p.m., while additional music workshops take place at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts from 1 to 6 p.m.
1 PM – Bluegrass & Blues with Louisa Branscomb & Mr Jimmy
If Blues is the trunk of the tree, how has the Blues influenced all the branches of American Music? This will be a lively demonstration and discussion of “blues proper,” and examples of its influence or common ground with rock, country, roots, and bluegrass. Musicians include Mr. Jimmy’s masterful Blues, along with Louisa Branscomb, Johnny and Jeanette Williams, and Jody King.
2:30 PM – Lightnin’ Wells: NC Blues (The Next Generation)
Hosted by Lightnin’ Wells, who performed with and had personal relationships with many of these artists, this workshop traces the journey of Piedmont blues from its roots in the 1930s and ’40s to its revival and innovation in the 1970s and beyond. Featuring stories and music from legends such as Etta Baker, John Dee Holeman, Big Boy Henry, Algia Mae Hinton, and George Higgs, it offers an insider’s look at the players and traditions that shaped this distinctive North Carolina sound.
4 PM – Doug MacLeod: Stories and Acoustic Blues
Hosted by award-winning bluesman Doug MacLeod, this workshop blends unforgettable storytelling with masterful guitar work. Drawing on his time spent with legendary old bluesmen, MacLeod shares funny, moving, and insightful tales filled with life lessons, while demonstrating a range of acoustic blues guitar styles. It’s an engaging, intimate look at the music and the people who shaped it.
5 PM – Abraham Amador: Blues and Open Exchange
This interactive workshop invites participants into a dynamic, Q&A-style session format. Covering everything from the fundamentals of the Blues to its many styles and nuances, the session encourages open dialogue, hands-on questions, and shared experiences. It’s designed for all levels of interest and knowledge, offering a chance to learn and connect with the artist.
On Sunday, the community will come together in Town Square at 2 p.m. for a celebration with town leaders, followed by a moment of remembrance led by local spiritual leaders.
The weekend will conclude with a musical celebration from 3 to 6 p.m., featuring an amazing lineup of performers and special guests to be announced the week of the event.
Together, the community will honor the past and embrace the future—stronger than ever.
