Art, Community: Asheville Fundraiser Brings People Together Across Cultures
An afternoon of art, music, and community comes to The Mule on April 25, as local fundraiser Lauralee Petritz hosts her 6th annual birthday fundraiser supporting youth programs in Asheville and South Africa.
Free and open to the public, the event invites the community to gather, celebrate, and connect while supporting Project Lighten Up (Asheville, NC) and Project Sunwave (Lambert’s Bay, South Africa).
Bring your friends and colleagues to celebrate!!!
The LL’s 6th annual fundraiser features an arts and crafts market, live music, a food truck, a photo booth, and a raffle. Asheville artists will showcase their work.
Project Lighten Up provides year-round afterschool and summer programming for youth in Asheville’s Shiloh community. Project Sunwave offers ocean-based programs focused on water safety, life skills, and academic support.
“I invite people who don’t normally connect to come together in a safe, welcoming space through play, fun, and shared experiences where real connection can happen,” says Petritz. “Love is our greatest force against hate.”
Event Details:
Saturday, April 25, 2026
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
The Mule, Asheville, NC
Free and open to the public
Artist Signup
Stay tuned, our online auction goes live April 20–May 31.