Each year, downtown Hendersonville transforms into something truly special for Oklawaha Jazz Fest — a festival that’s not only about smooth jazz and cold brews but about the creative, diverse spirit of Western North Carolina itself.
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🎶 The Jazz Tradition Runs Deep
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While jazz may have been born in the streets of New Orleans over a century ago, its spirit is alive and thriving in Hendersonville. Festivals like this trace back to jazz landmarks like the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and LA’s historic Cavalcade of Jazz, but in Hendersonville, it’s become something uniquely local—blending Appalachian hospitality with global rhythm.
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🦞 Crawfish Boils: Southern Hospitality Served Hot
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The crawfish boil at Oklawaha Jazz Fest brings a rich tradition of Louisiana gatherings to WNC. With roots in Cajun culture, these boils originated as communal feasts where family and friends gather to share fresh crawfish, sausage, potatoes, and corn — all boiled in bold, mouthwatering seasoning. Today, it’s not just a meal — it’s an experience of fellowship that fits Hendersonville perfectly.
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🍻 The Heartbeat: Oklawaha Brewing
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Oklawaha Brewing Company — named after the small but mighty Oklawaha Creek — has been a downtown anchor for years. From its award-winning Tiny Pilsner and Imperial Coffee Stout to its community-first mission, Oklawaha continues to be a gathering place where good beer meets good people.
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Their recent recognition as “Business That Represents the Spirit of Your Town” proves just how embedded they are in the Hendersonville community.
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🎨 So Much More Than Music & Food
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What truly sets Oklawaha Jazz Fest apart is the incredible variety of local vendors and artists who turn the festival into a full-blown street market:
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Local Artisans: Handcrafted pottery, jewelry, woodworking, and textiles
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Craft Vendors: Original artwork, handmade soaps, candles, and home décor
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Food Vendors: from BBQ to gourmet snacks, homemade desserts, and sweet treats
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Specialty Beverages: In addition to beer, find craft sodas, cold brews, and mocktails
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Family-Friendly Fun: Outdoor seating, shaded areas, games, and kids’ activities
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Whether you came for the jazz or stayed for the snacks, there’s something for everyone here.
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🎥 Watch The Full Video!
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Our video captures the vibrant energy of Oklawaha Jazz Fest — from the first note of jazz to the last crawfish pulled from the boil. It’s a celebration of everything that makes Hendersonville and WNC so special.
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📍 Mark your calendars — you don’t want to miss the next one!
