May 2026 Episodes

May 22, 2026 Memorial Weekend



Transcript: 
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Happy Friday and welcome to your Memorial Day weekend! There is a lot going on so let’s get to it!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is May 22nd the 142nd day of 2026.
Let’s check temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers – and Sapphire Valley region.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 61 at the Highlands Newspaper, 63 at Cashiers Lake, and 61 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Welcome to this special holiday edition of Radio Cashiers. If you are looking for the ultimate way to kick off your summer this Memorial Day weekend, this pocket of the Blue Ridge Mountains has an incredible lineup of music, heritage, and outdoor adventure waiting for you over the next 4 days.
We start our holiday weekend journey in the charming town of Highlands, where the summer season officially roars to life. On Friday night, grab a lawn chair and head over to the Highlands Town Square for the beloved Friday Night Live concert series, offering free outdoor music under the stars. If you love local history, you will want to stick around on Saturday for the Season Opening Celebration hosted by the Highlands Historical Society. From late morning to early afternoon, the historic village opens its doors for free family fun, historic tours, complimentary food, and plenty of live local music.
Just down the road in Cashiers, the holiday weekend energy centers around the gorgeous open spaces of The Village Green. Music lovers are in for a massive treat as the popular Groovin on the Green outdoor concert series returns to Commons Lawn. The big holiday weekend kickoff features a free live performance by the Corey Stevenson Band on Friday evening, where you can pack a picnic, spread out a blanket, and enjoy the mountain breeze. While you are in town, you can also browse the Art for a Cause exhibition happening all day Saturday and Sunday.
 Staying in Cashiers, The Cashiers Celtic Table is officially kicking off its live music weekend with a special evening performance featuring international singer, songwriter, and guitarist Philip John Brooks. Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 23, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., because this is an event you will not want to miss. Listeners can expect a wonderful mix of oldies, classic country standards, traditional Irish music, and original acoustic songs that will perfectly set the mood for a relaxed mountain evening. True to its authentic theme, the pub is promising great local food, warm company, and ice-cold Guinness on draft.
Of course, no trip to this region is complete without exploring the spectacular wilderness that surrounds these towns.
This week is the perfect time to visit Gorges State Park, a breathtaking expanse spanning over eight thousand acres of temperate rainforest. Located right near Sapphire, this park is completely free for day use and features plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, and sheer rock precipices.
You can explore fifty-six miles of hiking trails, including the path that leads to the thunderous Rainbow Falls or spend a quiet morning fishing and picnicking by the water. To learn more about camping reservations or to plan your route through the plunging gorges, you can check out all the details on the official state parks website.
Here’s Cassidy with more music info, your wet weather details and a close out.
Thanks Hannah Lee, we have a lot of music to cover in this episode.
For a true taste of Appalachian heritage, you need to head over to Sapphire Valley.
Local favorite Dave Mauldin is taking the stage for an unforgettable evening of acoustic music at Micas Restaurant & Pub. The performance is scheduled for Saturday, May 23, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Listeners can look forward to a captivating, stripped-down showcase featuring rich guitar loops, heartfelt Americana storytelling, and acoustic covers of classic pop, country, and rock favorites. The host venue offers the ultimate cozy mountain lodge atmosphere to unwind after a day of hiking. You can pull up a chair in their main dining room or sit outside on the large wraparound deck to enjoy local favorites like their signature New York style pizza, fresh-caught local rainbow trout, and a full drink menu.
If you are looking to extend your weekend celebration into a perfect Sunday afternoon, you will definitely want to tune in to the latest summer lineup coming straight out of Sapphire Valley. SlopeSide Tavern, located right at the base of the Sapphire Valley ski slope, is officially kicking off its highly anticipated Sunday Funday Live Music Series.
Running every Sunday from Noon to 3 p.m., this series is the ultimate excuse to grab a build-your-own Bloody Mary, kick back, and soak up the summer sunshine. The venue has lined up a fantastic mix of acoustic songwriters, regional bluegrass players, and classic rock cover bands to carry you through the entire season. Coming up on May 24th is Nikki Talley bringing her captivating, soulful mountain rhythms to the stage.
Listeners heading out to the beautiful plateau regions of Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley can expect a wet stretch of mountain weather over the next four days.
This four-day forecast of heavy rain and thunderstorms will create dramatic but potentially hazardous conditions at Gorges State Park.
Waterfalls will reach peak, roaring flows. The relentless rain over the next few days will turn iconic falls like Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls into highly powerful cascades.
While visually spectacular, this high-water volume creates dangerous currents and heavy mist. Swimming or wading near the water is strictly discouraged due to severe undertows.
Hiking trails will become muddy, slick, and eroded.
As a temperate rainforest that receives over 90 inches of rain annually, Gorges State Park handles moisture well, but consecutive days of downpours will cause significant trail washouts and slick rock conditions.
Steep descents—such as the final stretches leading to the bases of the waterfalls—will have highly compromised footing.
Potential closures for bike and bridle trails. While foot traffic is generally permitted during rain, park officials frequently close bike and horse trails during multi-day storm events to prevent severe erosion and protect infrastructure.
Flash flooding and lightning risks. With thunderstorms predicted for Friday, Saturday, and Monday, hikers must be prepared to leave the ridges immediately if lightning occurs. Rising creeks can also quickly flood low-lying trail crossings.
If you still plan to visit, sticking to the paved overlooks near the Gorges State Park Visitor Center is the safest way to experience the park in this weather.
Ok – here is your wet weather forecast.
Listeners heading out to the beautiful plateau regions of Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley can expect a wet stretch of mountain weather over the next four days.
Starting today, heavy rain and patchy fog will keep things cool with a high of 64 degrees and an overnight low of 57 degrees.
Moving into tomorrow, the rain continues with scattered afternoon thunderstorms as temperatures reach a high of 63 degrees before dropping to a low of 57 degrees at night.
Sunday brings a slight break from the heavier downpours, offering mostly lighter rain and a high of 66 degrees, with overnight temperatures dipping to a low of 59 degrees.
Finally, for Monday, expect the rain to persist with scattered thunderstorms returning, pushing the daytime high to 66 degrees and hitting a low of 61 degrees overnight
Closing us out , whether you are listening to live bands on a village lawn, diving into local history, or hiking past the waterfalls at the plateau offers a moving and memorable backdrop for this holiday week.
Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com. Have a fun and safe Memorial Day weekend, see you next Tuesday.

May 19, 2026



Transcript:
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Happy Wednesday! We’re a day late and probably a dollar short with this episode, but here we go!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is May 20th the 140th day of 2026.
Let’s check temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers – and Sapphire Valley region.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 78 at the Highlands Newspaper, 76 at Cashiers Lake, and 68 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Bottom line – it is warm across the high south. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Visitors to the Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley region over the next four days can experience a mix of outdoor adventures, featuring the waterfalls at Gorges State Park, alongside local cultural events. Highlights include the Village Nature Series in Cashiers, and the Locally Grown Farmers Market.
Let’s drill down a bit on these.
Gorges State Park, located in western North Carolina's Blue Ridge Escarpment, is a temperate rainforest spanning over 8,000 acres, featuring 26 waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and high biodiversity. Popular for hiking to destinations like Rainbow Falls, the park also offers extensive backcountry recreation opportunities, including fishing, mountain biking, and access to the Foothills Trail, anchored by the LEED-certified Grassy Ridge Visitor Center. For more details, visit Pilot Cove.
Village Nature Series
The Village Green and Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust co-host a series of lectures each summer. Visitors and residents learn about wildlife, habitats, conservation, and local cultural heritage from expert speakers in their fields! The Village Nature Series will begin at 5:30 pm on a select Tuesday or Wednesday during the months of April through September at The Village Green Commons located at 160 Frank Allen Road in Cashiers.
The Locally Grown on The Green Market is a vibrant, producer-only farmers market held at The Village Green Of Cashiers in Cashiers, North Carolina. Operating every Wednesday from May through October between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, this community staple brings regional growers directly to residents and visitors at the Village Green Commons.
Here’s Cassidy with some mid-week music info and our weather for the next few days.
Great news! The “Music on the Slopes” series continues Thursday, May 21st, with live music from Alma Russ. The show runs from 6 until 9 PM and promises an evening of laid-back mountain music in the cozy atmosphere of Slopeside Tavern.
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend a spring evening in Sapphire, this is a great chance to enjoy live local talent, good food, and the cool mountain air.
Again, Alma Russ performs live at Slopeside Tavern on Thursday, May 21st from 6 to 9 PM
Get ready for some classic mountain weather if you are traveling through the plateau over the next four days. In Highlands, things start off warm with plenty of sunshine and a high of 80 degrees, but a multi-day stretch of wet weather moves in quickly, bringing steady rain and scattered thunderstorms with highs dropping into the mid to upper 70s and nightly lows holding steady around 61 degrees. Just down the road in Cashiers, expect a very similar pattern as initially clear skies give way to thick clouds and late-day showers, featuring a warm peak of 85 degrees before wet weather cools daytime highs down into the upper 70s, while overnight temperatures bottom out between 60 and 63 degrees. Finally, Sapphire Valley will track right along with its neighbors, offering sun through high clouds and an early high of 81 degrees before transitioning into heavy rainfall and daytime thunderstorms that will suppress temperatures down into the lower 70s, all while overnights stay fairly mild with a consistent low around 58 to 62 degrees
OK. Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com. See you Friday!

May 15, 2026



Transcript:
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Happy Friday – you made it!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is May 15th, the 135th day of 2026.
Sorry we are a little late today – we had some continuing education requirements this morning we had to complete and Rick and Cassidy are out today
As we like to do, let’s get into this episode the usual way - checking temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers – and Sapphire Valley region.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 66 at the Highlands Newspaper, 65 at Cashiers Lake, and at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. I’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Over in Cashiers, Mayfest returns on Saturday, May 16th, from noon until 3 PM at the Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau. This free family-friendly celebration will feature more than 40 local nonprofits and businesses, along with interactive activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy drone demonstrations, a medical helicopter fly-in, live animals, games, and plenty of hands-on fun throughout the afternoon. It’s a great opportunity for families to connect with the community and experience one of Cashiers’ most popular spring traditions. More information is available through the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce.
Meanwhile in Highlands, High Style returns on May 16th for a full day celebrating art, cuisine, fashion, and music in the heart of town. The event brings together local artists, jewelry makers, chefs, musicians, and designers for an experience that captures the creative spirit of Highlands. Guests can enjoy live music performances, interactive art experiences, culinary tastings, and an exciting fashion show, all set against the backdrop of one of the region’s most charming mountain communities. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or you’re a longtime local, High Style promises a memorable day of inspiration, entertainment, and mountain elegance. You can learn more at the official High Style event page
How about some music this weekend?
If you are packing your bags for the Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley region you are in for a fantastic three days of music spanning completely free outdoor parks to historic mountain theaters.
Friday night is your perfect chance to catch the region's best bluegrass and country vibes right under the open sky. Up in Highlands, make your way over to the town's central Town Square for the popular Friday Night Live concert series.
 This week, the stage is lighting up from six to eight-thirty in the evening with The Foxfire Boys, a legendary regional group playing classic Appalachian bluegrass melodies. Saturday ramps up the energy, starting with the town-wide High Style celebration.
 You can catch live ambient music as you browse downtown art galleries, local boutiques, and specialty food tastings until four in the afternoon. Once the sun starts to set, the party shifts over to Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park for the Saturdays on Pine concert series.
Grab a blanket or a lawn chair and get ready to dance from six to eight-thirty in the evening as Lazr Luvr takes the stage, delivering an absolute powerhouse performance filled with neon-lit, high-energy nineteen-eighties synth and pop covers.
In Sapphire Valley tonight at The FIX, you can eat, drink, gather, and be epic with live music running from 6:00 to 11:00 PM featuring Doug Ramsay and Pete Ramsay. If you want to keep the Friday night energy going, head over to Slopeside as they go full throwback with a 70s Disco on the Patio party. Dust off your best sequins because DJ Reel Bill will be spinning the hits and getting things groovy from 7:00 to 10:00 PM.
The mountain plateau region of Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley is looking at a beautiful and sunny spring weekend ahead.
On Friday, expect clear skies with a pleasant daytime high of 73 degrees and a cool overnight low of 56 degrees. Saturday brings mostly sunny skies with an unseasonably warm high of 85 degrees before dropping down to a low of 64 degrees at night.
 Sunday stays warm and bright with partly cloudy conditions, reaching a daytime peak of 89 degrees and dipping down to 66 degrees after sunset, making it a perfect weekend for outdoor festivals or mountain exploration.
Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com.


Summary:

Host Hannah Lee previews a packed weekend in Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley, featuring Mayfest and High Style on May 16th, alongside a diverse music lineup including The Foxfire Boys and Lazr Luvr in Highlands with Doug and Pete Ramsey at The Fix in Sapphire Valley. Slopeside Tavern goes full throwback with a 70s Disco party on the patio. The episode also highlights a sunny, warm, three-day weather forecast for the mountain region. For more information, visit Radio


May 12, 2026



Transcript: 

Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Happy Tuesday! We hope you had a great weekend and Mother’s Day.
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is May 12th, the 132nd day of 2026.
All right, let’s get into this episode the usual way - checking temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers – and Sapphire Valley region.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 54 at the Highlands Newspaper, 55 at Cashiers Lake, and 53 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Welcome back to the podcast where we dive into the best of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you are heading to the Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley area over the next four days, you are in for a treat as the spring season is in full swing.
Tuesday and Wednesday let’s look at the charming village centers. In Highlands and Cashiers, this is the perfect time for gallery hopping and exploring the local boutiques before the weekend crowds arrive. For a bit of peaceful morning activity, the Village Green in Cashiers offers beautiful boardwalks and gardens that are particularly vibrant this time of year.
This is a special week for our nation and Rick covers what’s up.
Welcome to this special feature for National Police Week. Across the United States, communities are taking time to honor the service, sacrifice, and dedication of the men and women in law enforcement who work every day to keep neighborhoods safe.
National Police Week traces its roots back to 1962, when President John F Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week surrounding it as National Police Week. Since then, the observance has become a nationwide tradition of remembrance, gratitude, and support for officers and their families.
Throughout the week, memorial ceremonies, candlelight vigils, community gatherings, and educational events are held in cities large and small. The most recognized ceremonies take place in Washington, D.C., where thousands of officers, survivors, and supporters gather at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial to honor those who lost their lives in the line of duty. Names of fallen officers are added to the memorial each year, ensuring their service and sacrifice are never forgotten.
As we observe National Police Week, it serves as a reminder of the importance of service, unity, and community support. Whether in large cities or small mountain towns, law enforcement officers continue to stand watch every day and night, often under difficult circumstances, committed to protecting the people they serve.
From all of us, we extend our appreciation to law enforcement officers, first responders, and the families who support them.
I find it interesting, but not surprising we have heard nothing about this in the main stream media.
OK Cassidy, what does the music scene look like?
Thank you, Rick!
Alright, looking ahead to our local scene this week, we’ve got some fantastic spots to grab a drink, catch a vibe, and enjoy some great food here in the mountains. “First up, if you’re looking for those soulful, classic sounds, mark your calendars for Myron Hyman. He’ll be performing live over at the Cashiers Celtic Table Thursday from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. It’s the perfect way to wind down. You can find them right on US 64 in Cashiers—and if you want to snag a table early, give them a ring at 828-743-8007.
In Sapphire, Slopeside Tavern is the place to be this week.
They’ve got a packed schedule for 'What’s Happening':
Wednesday, May 13th, it’s the big Cashiers Burger Week Wrap-Up Party. They’ll be announcing winners, handing out prizes, and keeping the energy high with live music.
On Thursday the 14th, the 'Music on the Slopes' series continues with Paul Edelman taking the stage from 6:00 to 9:00 PM.
And to head into the weekend, Friday night is going full throwback. Get your best sequins ready for 70’s Disco on the Patio. DJ Reel Bill will be spinning the hits and getting things groovy from 7:00 to 10:00 PM. Whether you’re in it for the burgers, the bluegrass, or the disco, there’s plenty of life in the plateau this week. We’ll see you out there."
Now let’s look at the weather for the next few days.
Travelers heading to the Highlands-Cashiers plateau over the next four days can expect a beautiful stretch of quintessential mountain weather.
Starting today, May 12, the region will see plenty of afternoon sunshine with highs reaching the low 60s. Wednesday brings slightly warmer temperatures, climbing toward 67°F under mostly sunny skies, though be prepared for a brief potential shower late in the evening.
Thursday is shaping up to be the crispest day of the trip, with clear, bright skies and a cool breeze as temperatures dip slightly back into the mid-60s. By Friday, things warm up perfectly for outdoor exploring, with mostly sunny conditions and highs reaching the near 70-degree mark.
Overall, it is a fantastic window for hiking and chasing waterfalls, just remember to pack a light jacket for those refreshing mountain nights that will consistently drop into the low 40s.
Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com.

May 8, 2026



Transcript:
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
It’s Friday and don’t forget, Sunday is Mother’s Day!
We hope you had a great week, now let’s look at the weekend!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is Friday, May 8th, the 128th day of 2026.
As we like to do, let’s get into this episode the usual way - checking temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers – and Sapphire Valley region. Our part of the mountains received more than 2 inches of rain over the past 48 hours so you know the area’s waterfalls will be thunderous! Be careful as the trails may be a bit damp.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 53 at the Highlands Newspaper, 53 at Cashiers Lake, and 47 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Sometimes, when you arrive at your evening dining spot, you’ll hear a snippet of live music drifting out of a doorway, and it hits me that 6 years ago this month—just how quiet it was during the COVID lockdown.
Rick has a look back at a COVID charity concert that involved many of our area musicians, raising money for all the displaced restaurant employees.
You know, there is something truly special about the Sapphire Valley experience. It’s that perfect mountain mix—where you can jump from casual slopeside bites to an upscale farm-to-table dinner, all while catching some of the best live music in the region. We’re lucky enough to have incredibly talented musicians playing our local spots several times a week, keeping the valley’s energy alive.
But looking at where we are now, I can’t help but think back to April of 2020 and the COVID days. It was a tough time for our community. Three of our four core music venues were forced to shut their doors, and the only one left was strictly takeout. We didn't just miss the great food and socializing; we deeply missed the soul of those rooms—the live entertainment.
To help, we pulled together a group of our favorite valley musicians for a virtual fundraising concert. These are the same artists who have spent years filling places like Micas Mountain Kitchen, Table64, and The Cork and Barrel Lounge—which most of you know today as The Fix—with music.
And talk about tough timing, the government shutdown orders actually landed on the exact day Nicole was supposed to host the grand opening party for the new Slopeside Tavern! It was a heart-wrenching start but thank goodness she and the Tavern pushed through and survived.
I just uploaded that full 2020 virtual concert to the Radio Cashiers website yesterday. It is such a great watch, featuring some fantastic performances, including two of my personal favorites: Spalding McIntosh’s original 'Coffee and Vinyl' and Kurt Thomas’s 'Kick Back with a Bottle of Jack.'
Head over to the site and give it a view—it’s a wonderful reminder of the talent and the resilience we have right here in the valley. I hope you enjoy it.
Now Cassidy has some weekly music updates for us.
Thanks Rick, were you at Slopeside Tavern last night? The ALR Trio rocked the house with some high-energy rhythms in the mountains.
Look forward, on Saturday, May 9th, in Highlands the music moves to the streets and the lounges. At 4:30 PM, keep your ears open for the Pop-Up Pipers, as the stirring sound of bagpipes will echo from the First Bank balcony overlooking Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. As the sun sets, the Hummingbird Lounge becomes the destination for sophisticated live sets, providing a smooth, elegant soundtrack to your Saturday night.
We wrap up the week on Sunday, May 10th, with two standout ways to celebrate Mother’s Day. Start your morning at Highlander Mountain House for their Bluegrass Brunch, where local pickers provide a relaxed, acoustic backdrop for your meal. Over in Sapphire Valley, the Mother’s Day festivities continue at Slopeside Tavern with a special performance by Dave Desmelik from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Looking ahead, the popular Friday Night concert at Highlands Town Square returns. Every Friday evening, you can expect traditional Americana, bluegrass, and local talent that gets the crowd singing and clapping along.
On May 15th, the series launches with The Foxfire Boys.
May 22nd features Silly Ridge.
And on May 29th, it’s Andrew Wakefield and Friends.
These shows are perfect for toe-tapping and dancing under the open sky.
Now, if you’re ready for even more variety, head over to Saturdays on Pine at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.
Saturday, May 16th gets things rolling with Jazz Luv — that high-energy 80’s tribute band everyone’s been asking for. Expect sing-alongs, 80’s outfits, and a whole lot of fun.
May 23rd brings The Parks Brothers.
And May 30th closes out the month with Snap.
Also worth marking on your calendar: the Orchard Sessions at the Farm at Old Edwards on Wednesday, May 20th at 6 p.m., featuring the Tennessee Bluegrass Band. That’s going to be another fantastic night of live music.
For your upcoming travels through Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley, the next four days offer a mix of pleasant mountain sun and late-weekend rain. Expect a beautiful Friday with mostly sunny skies and highs in the low 60s, while overnight lows dip to around 43 degrees. Saturday stays clear and warms up slightly to a high of 67 with a low near 50. By Sunday, clouds move in with a high of 72 and a 40 percent chance of afternoon storms, staying mild overnight at 52 degrees. The period wraps up on Monday with cooler, showery conditions as temperatures peak at 60 and drop to a crisp 41 degrees.
To close out, we want to give special recognition to all the Mothers out there! Thanks for being somebody’s Mom and for all the little things you do and continue to do!
Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com.
Summary
Radio Cashiers welcomes listeners into a beautiful Mother’s Day weekend across Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley, featuring local temperatures, live music highlights, upcoming concerts, and a nostalgic look back at a 2020 virtual COVID relief concert supporting displaced restaurant workers.
 The episode also previews Mother’s Day events, Highland’s summer music series, and the weekend mountain weather forecast while celebrating the resilience and spirit of the local community.

May 5, 2026



Transcript:
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers and welcome to Cinco de Mayo!! We have another info packed episode for you!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is May 5th, the 125th day of 2026.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 59 at the Highlands Newspaper, 63 at Cashiers Lake, and 59 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode. Here’s Rick with a note about a charity we support.
Rick
You know, being part of the Cashiers community means looking out for one another. Here at Radio Cashiers and High South Ventures, we do our part by helping local charities navigate the digital world. For years, we’ve partnered with Cashiers Cares—an incredible 501(c)(3) that raises funds for ten underserved charities in our area. From their fall golf classic to the upcoming annual Croquet Tournament at the Country Club of Sapphire Valley, they stay busy doing good. We just gave their website a major update to make it easier for you to get involved. The June Croquet Tournament is right around the corner, so visit CashiersCares.org to register, donate, or just learn more. That’s CashiersCares.org. Thanks for your support!
Thanks Rick! Now let’s see what’s happening around the Plateau.
Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley area is hosting several Cinco de Mayo events perfect for a festive Tuesday night. In Highlands, the standout celebration is at Highlands Burrito. They are hosting a Cinco de Mayo party with live music by Ernest Bonilla from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
They also offer an all-you-can-eat taco bar that runs until 8:00 PM for $25 per person. The menu includes unlimited options like Tinga, Chicharrón, ground beef, and chicken chorizo served with miniature tortillas, salsa, and chips.
Also in Highlands, the Old Edwards Club at Highlands Cove is celebrating with Chippin', Dippin' & Margarita Sippin. This event features festive lunch specials in the Grill Room from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM and $5 margaritas at the bar from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. They also have house-made pork and chicken tamales available for to-go orders.
Just down the road, Western Carolina Brew and Wine is joining the fun from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. They’ll have a seasonal Cerveza Lime Lager on tap, perfect for enjoying while the music rolls in their taproom.
For those in Sapphire Valley looking for a local vibe, Casa Amigos Bar and Grill is hosting a Cinco de Mayo fiesta with live music, food and drink specials, and giveaways throughout the day.
Pretty much all restaurants offer various Cinco de Mayo specials.
Looking ahead, don’t forget that the Cashiers Burger Week Wrap Party is coming up on Wednesday, May 13th, at Slopeside Tavern in Sapphire, where they will announce the winners for Favorite and Most Creative Burger.
Here’s Cassidy to find some music, cover the weather and close us out.
On the music scene, you can kick back with Slopeside Tavern every Thursday night from 6 to 9 and keep the weekend rolling on Sundays from noon to 3. This Thursday, May 7th, they’re kicking things off with the ALR Trio bringing the vibes from 6:00 until 9:00. Grab a cold one and catch some tunes at the Tavern in Sapphire Valley.
Ok, here’s you weather summary. Over the next four days in the Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley area, expect a mix of spring sunshine and passing showers. Tuesday remains pleasant and mostly sunny with a high of 70 and a low of 53. On Wednesday, clouds move in bringing scattered thunderstorms, peaking at 68 with a low of 56. Rain is likely to continue into Thursday morning before clearing up later in the day, with temperatures reaching 69 and dropping to a cool 44 overnight. By Friday, the skies will stay mostly cloudy as temperatures level off with a high of 64 and a low of 46. It is a varied few days, so keep a rain jacket handy but enjoy those brighter windows when they appear.
Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com

May 1, 2026



Transcript:
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers and wow! What an episode we have today.
Happy Friday!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is May 1st, the 121st day of 2026.
As we like to do, let’s get into this episode the usual way - checking temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers – and Sapphire Valley region.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 56 at the Highlands Newspaper, 55 at Cashiers Lake, and 54 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode and next up, Rick has an update about our episodes and our website.
Hey Hannah Lee, before you get into the meat of this episode, here’s a quick update on our Radio Cashiers platform.
On the website, Radio Cashiers.com, there’s a brand-new addition to the home page, rolling out a dedicated section that brings together links to all the major area event calendars in one place. The idea is simple—while we’ll keep bringing you our twice-weekly podcast updates, this new hub gives you a go-to starting point whenever you’re planning your own adventure or just looking for a little family fun around Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley.
And while you’re there, be sure to explore the Drill Downs menu. This is one of those hidden gems on the site where you can really dive deeper into what makes the plateau special. You’ll find guides and insights on everything from hummingbirds and Cashiers Lake to local swimming holes, waterfalls, and more. It’s the kind of content that helps you go beyond just visiting—and really experience the area.
Best of all, that Drill Downs section is constantly being updated, so it’s worth checking back often. It’s just another way Radio Cashiers helps you stay connected to everything happening on the plateau.
Finally, in each episode we try to highlight where you can find music on the plateau. We scrub area calendars and social media to bring you the latest. We hope you enjoy it and please be aware we do not charge for any of our promotional services. Now back to a full show with Hannah Lee who will share where to find some Kentucky Derby fun!
Welcome back to the show—today we’re heading up to the cool, crisp elevations of the Highlands–Cashiers Plateau in North Carolina, where late April rolls into early May with that perfect mix of spring color, mountain air, and just enough activity to fill a weekend without ever feeling rushed.
So, if you’re planning a quick escape this weekend, settle in, because I’m going to walk you through what’s happening right now across Highlands and Cashiers—blending arts, live experiences, wellness, and those classic small-town mountain moments.
The plateau of the Blue Ridge Mountains transforms into a sophisticated race-day retreat every May. For those visiting Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley, the Kentucky Derby is more than just a two-minute race; it is a full-day social affair defined by southern hospitality, wide-brimmed hats, and mountain views.
Highlands serves as a primary hub for race day glamour. The most storied celebration takes place at Old Edwards Inn, where the atmosphere mirrors the elegance of Churchill Downs. Guests gather in their finest seersucker and floral dresses for a refined watch party that features gourmet small bites and premium cocktails. Nearby, local schools often host gala fundraisers that coincide with the race. These events typically feature live music and seated dinners, turning the sporting event into a community-wide celebration of local education.
In the neighboring village of Cashiers and the Sapphire Valley area, the energy is equally festive but often centered around the community’s shared love for the outdoors. The Library Kitchen and Bar serves as the focal point for fans in this corridor. Their annual celebration is a high-spirited gathering where the broadcast plays on multiple screens while guests enjoy traditional race-day snacks like Hot Brown sliders and bourbon-infused desserts.
A significant portion of the festivities in Cashiers specifically supports the local Village Green. This large park and botanical garden benefit from the proceeds of several private and public viewings held across the valley. Whether you are at a high-end resort in Highlands or a cozy tavern in Sapphire, you can expect to find silver julep cups filled with crushed ice and fresh mint at every turn. If you plan to attend any of these events, remember that reservations are essential, and the unofficial dress code strictly requires a statement hat.
For more fun let’s start in Highlands, where the weekend energy leans artistic and immersive. One of the standout ongoing experiences is the Carolina Concert Series happening at Trailborn Highlands. This series runs through the end of April and into early May, offering intimate live performances that bring together regional talent in a setting that feels more like a gathering than a formal concert. It’s the kind of experience where you don’t just listen—you settle in, you connect, and you let the music carry the evening.
And if you’re looking for something hands-on, there’s a recurring favorite: Paint (By Numbers) and Sip at Trailborn Highlands. Imagine spending a spring afternoon with a drink in hand, working your way through a canvas while surrounded by mountain views. It’s equal parts creative outlet and social experience—perfect for couples or small groups looking to slow things down.
Now, if relaxation is more your speed, Highlands has leaned into that as well. Saturday Sound Bath sessions at Unfurl Wellness Spa offer a deeply calming experience—think guided meditation paired with resonant sound frequencies that fill the room. It’s not your typical weekend activity, but that’s exactly why people love it. It gives you a reset before heading back into the week.
Now let’s shift just a few miles down the road into Cashiers, where the vibe becomes a little more community-centered and outdoorsy.
While the bigger summer concert series like Groovin’ on The Green is just about to kick off in May, you can already feel the buildup. The Village Green remains a focal point, and even when major events aren’t scheduled, it’s a hub for gathering—families, couples, and visitors all soaking in the scenery.
If you’re lucky, you might catch smaller live music happenings around town—places like local restaurants and gathering spots frequently host evening performances, creating that laid-back mountain nightlife that Cashiers is known for. One example from the weekly calendar includes live music evenings that blend dining with entertainment, giving you a relaxed but lively night out.
And then there are the ongoing seasonal experiences. Across Cashiers and Sapphire Valley, resorts and community spaces are offering spring programming—everything from outdoor recreation to casual social events. These aren’t always one-time headliners, but they fill your weekend with options: a morning activity, an afternoon hike, and something low-key in the evening.
Highlands and Cashiers and Sapphire don’t overwhelm you—they invite you in. And this weekend, that invitation comes with music, art, relaxation, the Kentucky Derby and just enough activity to keep things interesting without ever feeling crowded.
That’s your Highlands–Cashiers weekend preview. If you’re heading up, take your time, leave space in your schedule, and let the mountains do the rest.
Here’s Cassidy to review the music scene, the weather forecast and close us out.
Thanks Hannah Lee!
Here are two suggestions for music this weekend.
If you’re heading to the Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley area this weekend and wondering where to find live music, you’re in luck. Even in the quieter shoulder season, there are a few dependable spots where travelers can count on a good soundtrack to their mountain getaway.
Let’s start in Highlands at Old Edwards Inn and Spa, which remains one of the most consistent places to catch live music. Inside the property, the Hummingbird Lounge hosts performances on both Friday and Saturday evenings, typically starting in the early evening and continuing into the night.
Heading over to Sapphire Valley this Saturday night, May 2nd, the party is at The FIX! From 6:00 to 10:00 PM, Bonnie Stewart makes her highly anticipated return. You won’t want to miss her incredible, soulful sound filling the night air. It’s going to be a beautiful set, and we can’t wait to see you there
 Ok, here’s your weather summary!
The weather across the Highlands-Cashiers plateau this weekend will be a classic mountain mix of spring showers and cooling temperatures. Friday brings rain showers throughout the day with a high of 62 degrees and a low of 45. Saturday stays wet and significantly cooler as heavy rain moves in, dropping the high to 55 degrees and the low to 43. Sunday offers a much-needed break from the damp weather with clearing skies and a few clouds, reaching a high of 62 degrees and a chilly low of 31.
Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com.

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