Governor's 2025 North Carolina Awards

The North Carolina Award was created by the General Assembly in 1961 to recognize significant contributions to the state and nation in the fields of fine arts, literature, public service, and science.

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Downtown Asheville

Thursday, November 13th

Governor Josh Stein to Present the North Carolina Award in Asheville – Honoring Six Distinguished North Carolinians

For the first time in its history, the North Carolina Award - the state’s highest civilian honor - will be presented outside of Raleigh. Governor Josh Stein will honor six exceptional North Carolinians on Thursday, November 13, at the historic Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC.

Asheville Welcomes You!

Set in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a vibrant city known for its thriving arts scene, rich history, incredible food, and breathtaking outdoor adventures. This year’s celebration encourages guests to Come Early and Stay Late to explore all that Western North Carolina has to offer.

Supporting a Worthy Cause

All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the North Carolina Community Foundation, supporting recovery efforts for communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.

This year’s event will feature special performances and exclusive offers, and the event with an emphasis on the resilience of western North Carolina.

Plan Your Visit

Below you’ll find special hotel rates available for event attendees, along with planning tips for your time in Asheville. When making hotel reservations, please mention the rate codes provided and use the booking links for discounts.

For more information on hotel amenities, click the hotel names in the full event packet.

2025 NC Award Winners, State's Highest Honor

HOTELS OFFERING SPECIAL RATES

AC Hotel Asheville Biltmore Village | $159.00 | Group Name: Governors NC Award Ceremony | (828) 277-0026 | Group Rate: $159 (Mon-Thu); $159 (Fri/Sat). Standard King or Queen/Queen. Included in rate: Wi-Fi, Parking, Indoor Pool, Fitness Center. Breakfast Spread is available in the AC Kitchen for added fee. AC Lounge is open 5pm - 11pm daily serving dinner and beverages. 72 hour cancellation for individual reservations.

Candlewood Suites Asheville Downtown | $154.00 | Group Name: Governors NC Award Ceremony | (828) 220-0300 | Grab bag breakfast included in rate.

Country Inn and Suites Asheville West | $99.00 | Group Name: Governors NC Award Ceremony | (828) 665-9556 | Book Online for Special Rate

Courtyard by Marriott Asheville - Biltmore Village | $139.00 - $149.00 | Group Name: Governors NC Award Ceremony | (828) 782-5000 | Group Rate: $139 (Mon-Thu); $149 (Fri/Sat). Standard King or Queen/Queen. Included in rate: Wi-Fi, Parking, Indoor Pool, Fitness Center. Made to Order Breakfast is available in hotel Bistro. 72 hour cancellation for individual reservations.

Crowne Plaza Asheville | $125.00 | Group Name: Governors NC Award Ceremony | (828) 254-3211 | The rate offer will be valid until the hotel reaches a total of 200 booked sleeping rooms, after which the prevailing room rates would apply. | Book Online for Special Rate

Elevation Lofts Hotel | 15% off Avaialble Rate | Group Rate Code: NCAWARDS | (828) 761-7742 | Location: 52 Broadway Street, Asheville, NC 28801 | 15% discount on lodging at this luxury boutique hotel in downtown Asheville. Guests can also enjoy Momentum Gallery’s art collection inside the building. | Book Online Using Rate Code for Discount

Fairfield Inn and Suites Asheville - Tunnel Road | $109.00 | Group Name: Governors NC Award Ceremony | (828) 274-2001 | Group Rate: $109 (Mon-Thu only); $149. Standard King or Queen/Queen. Included in rate: Hot Breakfast, Wi-Fi, Parking, Indoor Pool, Fitness Center. 72 hour cancellation for individual reservations.

Holiday Inn Express and Suites Asheville Downtown | $109.00 - $149.00 | Group Name: Governors NC Award Ceremony | (828) 225-5550 | Group Rate: $109 (Mon-Thu); $149 (Fri/Sat). Standard King or Queen/Queen. Included in rate: Hot Breakfast, Wi-Fi, Parking, Indoor Pool, Fitness Center. 72 hour cancellation for individual reservations.

Wrong Way River Lodge and Cabins | $245.00 - $290.00 | Group Name: Governors NC Award Ceremony | (828) 771-6771

The Restoration Asheville | Use booking link | Group Name: Governors NC Award Ceremony | Must use direct booking link | Book Online for Special Rate

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