The Friends of Downtown Hendersonville invites the community to gather for the first look at 20 brand-new Bearfootin’ bears! This year’s Bearfootin’ Art Walk reveal will take place from 5:30–7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, on the outdoor Welcome Center Stage at 201 South Main Street.
The celebration will highlight the creative journey behind each bear, sharing the artists’ inspirations along with the missions of the nonprofit organizations selected by the sponsors. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs to enjoy the evening comfortably.
The Friends of Downtown Hendersonville partners with the Blue Ridge Community College Collision Repair Refinishing Technology Department to provide the automotive finishing for the Bears. Their advanced program trains students to restore vehicles to pre-accident condition using industry-standard techniques. “Collaborating with Blue Ridge is always a pleasure,” said Terrye Jacobs, Downtown Coordinator. “Instructor Brian Foster has been an exceptional partner, involving his students in caring for our bears. Their team will be on hand during the Reveal to help kick off the Art Walk!”
Following the unveiling, the bears will be installed along Main Street, where they’ll delight visitors and residents until the annual auction in October. Since 2016, the Bearfootin’ Auction has contributed more than $708,000 to local nonprofits. The 2026 virtual auction will open for bidding on October 8 and conclude on October 22, 2026.
Special thanks to the co-Masters of Ceremony of the event, Bryan Byrd and Lew Holloway, Community Development Director with the City of Hendersonville. More details about the 2026 Bearfootin’ Art Walk are available at downtownhendersonville.org.
The Friends of Downtown Hendersonville is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the vitality of Downtown Hendersonville’s Main Street and 7th Avenue Districts. The group produces many beloved local events, including the Hendersonville Farmers Market, Rhythm & Brews, Bearfootin’ Artwalk & Auction, Garden Jubilee, holiday happenings, and more. Learn how to get involved at downtownhendersonville.org.