Three river outfitters led First Lady Anna Stein on a canoe tour of the New River this week, kicking off the Western North Carolina Chamber Business Coalition’s “WNC Open for Business Week,” held June 2nd-8th across the region. Area chambers are collaborating with partner agencies and local businesses to amplify awareness that western North Carolina’s businesses, popular travel destinations, festivals, and other events are open and eager to welcome visitors.
Ashe County Chamber Executive Director Kitty Honeycutt and Boone Area Chamber President David Jackson joined the First Lady in underscoring the impact of tourism on local economic recovery. “A responsible and successful recruitment of visitors to the region this summer is going to play an important part in the comeback story for us in the High Country and throughout Western North Carolina,” said Jackson. “This collaborative effort is another sign of the connectedness of our region and the importance Chambers, tourism, and economic development organizations across the region are placing in telling the story of where we are today.”
Leaders from RiverGirl Fishing Company, Wahoo’s Adventures, and River & Earth Adventures expressed gratitude for the state’s small business recovery funding and for the careful removal of debris from area waterways.
This week’s events are energizing local leaders whose hard work has prepared towns to reopen and re-engage tourists. “It’s wonderful to see community leaders, business owners, and volunteers recognized for their recovery progress,” said Scott Elliott, GROW NC Deputy Director of Engagement. “Our towns are ready for summer fun with tourists, whose contribution to these local economies has special meaning this year.”
The First Lady spoke about the hope that came from the many people within the state and across the country who came together to support western North Carolina immediately following Helene. "Western North Carolina still needs us, just in a different way," said Stein. "Come back to your favorite places and spend money to help the economy recover. Go to restaurants, stay in hotels, go to shops, and visit our outfitters - they are ready for you!"
On the day of the "WNC Open for Business" ribbon-cutting, Governor Josh Stein appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to talk about the week's events and the importance of tourism to the region's economic recovery.
Travelers spent more than $36.7 billion on trips to and within the state in 2024. Visitors can explore Visit North Carolina’s website to spark ideas for their next trip to western North Carolina. The site features an interactive map to help travelers explore reopened areas.
Remaining “WNC Open for Business Week” Events
Area leaders continue to host tourism-focused events during the week of June 2-8, announcing their readiness to welcome tourists. Western North Carolina is open for business all summer long and into the fall.
THURSDAY, JUNE 5
- Forks & Corks: Local Savor 2025 – Hackney Warehouse, Murphy – 5:00-8:00 PM
- Asheville Chamber Business After Hours – The Reserve at Gashes Creek – 5:30-7:00 PM
FRIDAY, JUNE 6
- Music on the Lawn – The Jones House, Downtown Boone – 6:00 PM
- TGIF Outdoor Concert – Old Courthouse Square – Downtown Morganton – 6:30 PM
SATURDAY, JUNE 7
- Ribbon Cutting in the Town of Old Fort at Water St & Catawba Ave – 10:30 AM
- Livermush Festival and Downtown Marion Ribbon-Cutting – 5:00-9:00 PM
- Ashe Bash at the Ashe County Government Complex in Jefferson – 6:00 PM
Check with local Chambers of Commerce for additional events throughout the week and summer and plan your next visit!