Pritchard Park
A vibrant downtown Asheville park famous for its lively Friday night drum circle, offering a unique community experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the drum circle!
Pritchard Park
Best Time
Experience the drum circle!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant downtown Asheville park famous for its lively Friday night drum circle, offering a unique community experience.
"The Friday Drum Circle was an unexpected thing for me in Asheville. It was really cool!"
🥁 Bring Your Rhythm
Don't hesitate to bring your own drum or percussion instrument to join the circle!
🌅 Arrive by Sunset
For the full experience, aim to arrive around sunset to catch the drum circle as it builds energy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Asheville Drum Circle
Pritchard Park
A lively, free, and open-to-all gathering every Friday evening, showcasing Asheville's unique community spirit.

Urban Oasis
Pritchard Park
Enjoy the tree-lined paths, water features, and natural boulders that make this downtown park a refreshing escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Friday Night Drum Circle Magic
Downtown Asheville Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥁 Bring Your Rhythm
Don't hesitate to bring your own drum or percussion instrument to join the circle!
🌅 Arrive by Sunset
For the full experience, aim to arrive around sunset to catch the drum circle as it builds energy.
🍽️ Dine Nearby
The park is surrounded by great restaurants, perfect for a meal before or after the drum circle.
🚶♀️ Explore Downtown
Pritchard Park is a central point for exploring Asheville's downtown shops and attractions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥁 Bring Your Rhythm
Don't hesitate to bring your own drum or percussion instrument to join the circle!
🌅 Arrive by Sunset
For the full experience, aim to arrive around sunset to catch the drum circle as it builds energy.
🍽️ Dine Nearby
The park is surrounded by great restaurants, perfect for a meal before or after the drum circle.
🚶♀️ Explore Downtown
Pritchard Park is a central point for exploring Asheville's downtown shops and attractions.
🛍️ Market Days
Check for local markets like Ooh La La, often held at Pritchard Park on weekends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pritchard Park is widely praised as a beautiful downtown gem, especially for its iconic Friday night drum circle, which is described as a must-see, lively, and highly recommended experience. Visitors appreciate its central location and the vibrant community atmosphere it fosters. Some reviews mention past issues with park access or management, but the drum circle's enduring spirit is consistently highlighted.
"What a beautiful park this is! If your downtown Asheville on a Friday evening there is also a chance you will get to experience the local drum Circle. Easy to find and a must see! 💜"
Shawna K
"I enjoy coming to the drum circles at this park on Friday evenings. Highly recommended."
Mark Marich
"The Friday Drum Circle was an unexpected thing for me in Asheville. I was just walking by and saw it! It was really cool. If you’re around on Friday I would highly recommend going to Pritchard Park and seeing some local Asheville street music!"
Andre McMahon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pritchard Park is located in the heart of downtown Asheville, making it easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot if you're staying nearby. Parking is available in surrounding garages and street meters.
Yes, Pritchard Park is very easy to find as it's a central landmark in downtown Asheville, often mentioned in guides for local activities.
From Pritchard Park, you can easily walk to many shops, restaurants, and other attractions in downtown Asheville. It's a great starting point for a walking tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Pritchard Park is a public park and entry is completely free.
The Asheville Drum Circle at Pritchard Park is a free event, so no tickets are required. Just show up and enjoy the music!
As a public park, Pritchard Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. The drum circle typically starts around sunset on Fridays.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The drum circle is a vibrant, communal gathering where people of all ages come together to play drums and other percussion instruments, creating a lively atmosphere. It's a core part of Asheville's culture.
Absolutely! Everyone is welcome to join in. Bring your own drum or other instruments, or simply enjoy the music and energy.
Pritchard Park offers basic urban park amenities, including seating areas, trees for shade, and a water feature. It's primarily known as a gathering space.
While some Reddit users have inquired about dog-friendly spaces, it's best to check local regulations or observe park usage. The drum circle is a human-centric event.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Pritchard Park is surrounded by a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars in downtown Asheville, offering diverse culinary options.
Generally, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in the park. It's a great spot for a picnic before the drum circle.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the energy of the Friday night drum circle, the park's natural elements like boulders and trees, and the surrounding downtown Asheville street scenes.
Yes, attendees often share videos and photos of the drum circle. Just be respectful of performers and other attendees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the day, it's a pleasant urban park for a short break. While it doesn't have a playground, the natural boulders and water features can be interesting for younger children to observe. Its central downtown location also means easy access to family-friendly dining options nearby.
🎶 Music Lovers & Culture Seekers
Beyond the drum circle, the park's location in downtown Asheville puts you at the doorstep of the city's renowned music scene and eclectic arts culture. It's a perfect starting point for exploring galleries, live music venues, and soaking in the bohemian vibe that Asheville is famous for.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park, saving money on meals. The park itself is free to enter and explore, providing a pleasant urban oasis. Its central location also means you can easily walk to many downtown attractions, reducing transportation costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Asheville Drum Circle
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own drums and percussion instruments, fostering a truly participatory experience. Even if you don't play, the atmosphere is infectious, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Asheville on a Friday. The circle's resilience is notable, having overcome past challenges and continuing to be a beloved fixture.
Pro-tip: Arrive a little before sunset to witness the circle build momentum and find a good spot to soak in the vibes. It's a fantastic opportunity to capture unique photos and videos that embody the soul of Asheville.
Pritchard Park: A Downtown Green Space
The park's location makes it incredibly convenient. It's flanked by numerous dining options, making it an ideal spot for a pre-dinner gathering or a post-meal stroll. The park also occasionally hosts other community events, such as local markets, adding to its role as a central gathering point for the city.
While it may not have extensive recreational facilities, its charm lies in its simplicity and its prime location. It's a place that contributes to the overall walkability and appeal of downtown Asheville, offering a touch of nature amidst the urban landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit