Outdoor music in a green, riverside setting is coming to Asheville this summer with the unveiling of Hellbender by the Orange Peel, the new outdoor venue opening in July 2026.  Located at 151 Thompson Street just off Swannanoa River Road and S. Tunnel Road, Hellbender kicks off a limited concert series later this year, and announces plans for a permanent stage and full season beginning in Spring 2027.

The approximately three-acre concert site sits along a bend in the Swannanoa River and includes the property of the former Cursus Keme, the beloved local brewery which closed after Hurricane Helene. The new venue will feature a gently graded concert lawn for general admission audiences, as well as options for both premium and standard seating at shows.

HELLBENDER BY THE ORANGE PEEL:

Hellbenders (WNC’s celebrated giant salamander) are known for their longevity, adaptability and sensitivity to the health of the river ecosystems they inhabit. In choosing the uniquely Appalachian species to represent the new venue and become its unofficial outdoor brand mascot, the long-time management team at the Orange Peel hopes to reflect their connection to place, their history in Asheville, and the new venue’s riverside setting, while signaling their commitment to a thoughtful, sustainable activation of a site shaped by water and history.  

“The Orange Peel’s 24-year history as a locally owned live music business, deeply connected to our community, is central to everything we do,” said Liz Whalen Tallent, head of marketing and co-owner of Big Picture Concert Group, The Orange Peel, and Hellbender. “We love bringing people together for live music and we love Asheville, and Hellbender will be a reflection of both."

Co-owner and Director of Staff, Dana Roberson, adds, "Our team has been a work family for decades now." Having weathered our share of challenges together alongside our community, we are deeply committed to Hellbender being sustainable for the long term. As we invest in this new venture and watch it come to life over the next few years, we look forward to being part of rebuilding, re-energizing and bringing new life to the Swannanoa River Road industrial corridor which was hit so hard.  Asheville music fans are some of the most dedicated and engaged crowds in the whole touring world, and we can’t wait to introduce Hellbender to all the music lovers out there.”

FIRST SHOW ANNOUNCEMENT AT HELLBENDER:

The first show to be announced at Hellbender will take place Saturday, August 1, featuring headliners Rhiannon Giddens, Mavis Staples, and Mary Chapin Carpenter, with support from Hurray for the Riff Raff.

Billed as “Rhiannon Giddens presents American Tunes: Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing: Rhiannon Giddens, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Mavis Staples, and Hurray for the Riff Raff,” this special engagement marks the first official show announcement of Hellbender’s inaugural season.

Under open skies, Rhiannon Giddens brings together Mary Chapin Carpenter, Mavis Staples, and Hurray for the Riff Raff for a joyful celebration of American songs that connect generations. Tickets for the August 1st concert will go on sale Friday, March 6 at 10 a.m. at hellbenderavl.com, etix ticket outlets, and at the Orange Peel box office, located downtown at 101 Biltmore Ave. Seated tickets will be available, along with general admission lawn tickets.

MORE INFORMATION:

While a full season of programming is planned for 2027, a limited 2026 season will begin in July and run through October, with more concerts to be announced soon. Additional details on upcoming shows and tickets can be found at hellbenderavl.com or theorangepeel.net. For directions, venue policies, and more information, visit hellbenderavl.com/faq.