FIRST Competition 2026

Join the excitement at a FIRST Robotics Competition 2026 — where student-built robots compete in thrilling, high-energy challenges showcasing innovation, teamwork, and future tech leaders!

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Downtown Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina

March 13 - 15, 2026

The Ultimate Sport for the Mind™

Starting with a Kit of Parts, teams of high school students design, program, and build industrial-sized robots to play an action-packed game, released in January. They compete on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance in the spirit of Coopertition®.

In 360-degree learning guided by adult mentors, each FIRST Robotics Competition team also creates a team identity, raises funds to meet its goals, and advances appreciation for STEM in its community.

Welcome!

Asheville is a vibrant city located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina with a thriving arts community, diverse outdoor adventures, numerous historic attractions, and amazing food. Below you'll find special hotel rates for the event and information to help plan your time in Asheville.

As you make hotel reservations, be sure to mention the rate codes listed and use the booking links provided. For full details of hotel amenities, click on the hotel name.

Registration Information

HOTELS OFFERING SPECIAL RATES

AC Hotel Asheville Downtown | Use booking link | Group Name: FIRST Competition 2026 | (828) 258-2522 - Special Rate Available by Link Only | Special Events Rate Booking Link - 15% off BAR. Must book 30 days prior. Two night minimum for Friday and Saturday nights. | Book Online for Special Rate

Aloft Asheville Downtown | Use booking link | Special Events Rate | (828) 232-2838 - Special Rate Available by Link Only | Special Events Rate Booking Link - 15% off BAR. Must book 30 days prior. Two night minimum for Friday and Saturday nights. | Book Online for Special Rate

Clarion Inn Asheville Airport | $81.00 - $89.00 | Group Name: FIRST Competition 2026 | Reservation Cut Off Date: 2/13/2026 | (828) 684-1213 | Breakfast Included | All rooms include a mini fridge, microwave, coffee and coffee maker, hairdryer, iron and ironing board and are equipped with 40" T.V. Free wi-fi throughout the hotel. The Blue Agave Mexican Restaurant is located in the hotel and Long Horn Steakhouse adjacent to the hotel.

Element Asheville Downtown | $139.00 | Group Name: FIRST Competition 2026 | (828) 575-5881

Fairfield Inn and Suites Asheville Weaverville | $134.00 | Group Name: FIRST Competition 2026 | Reservation Cut Off Date: 2/13/2026 | (828) 645-9000 | Breakfast Included | King and Double Queen suites available. Enjoy your stay with complimentary breakfast, 24-hour coffee, free Wi-Fi, indoor pool, and fitness center. | Book Online for Special Rate

Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park | $174.00 | Group Name: FIRST Competition 2026 | (828) 209-2700 | Your guests can book “shoulder dates,” the 2 days before and after, at your group rate, depending upon availability.

Holiday Inn Asheville East | $139.00 | Group Name: FIRST Competition 2026 | (828) 298-5611 | All rooms include Wi-Fi, microwaves, refrigerators, Keurig coffee makers and ample USB ports. New! Electric Vehicle charging stations are available to all guests free of charge. The Woodfire Bar & Grille located on- site. Rates include breakfast for up to 2-adults and 2-children, per room, per night.

Prefer private accommodations?

Find your own quiet corner of the mountains

Cabins & Cottages

The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast Asheville NC

Bed & Breakfast Inns

Official Asheville app

Planning the Perfect Day Just Got Easier

We’re excited to unveil the Explore Asheville App, a new digital tool that showcases everything Asheville has to offer, from lodging and restaurants to activities, shopping and more. Designed with our partners at Visit Widget, this engaging app allows you to plan your trip to Asheville from the comfort of your device!

Download from the App Store

Download from Google Play