News

2026 Bearfootin’ bears debut on Wednesday

20 Bearfootin' bears will be unveiled on Wednesday at the Welcome Center stage.

By Lightning Reports, Published: May 3, 2026

Twenty brand-new bears starring in this year’s Bearfootin’ Art Walk will be unveiled at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, at the outdoor Welcome Center Stage, 201 S. Main St., the Friends of Downtown Hendersonville announced.

The celebration highlights the creative journey behind each bear, sharing the artists’ inspirations along with the missions of the nonprofit organizations selected by the sponsors. Emceeing the event are Bryan Byrd and Lew Holloway, city community development director. 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.

“Collaborating with Blue Ridge is always a pleasure,” said Terrye Jacobs, the city's 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 raised more than $708,000 to benefit local nonprofits. The 2026 virtual auction will open for bidding on Oct. 8 and close on Oct. 22.