by Kristy Tolley,

When you think of the “red carpet”, images of Hollywood glitz and glamour may come to mind. However, you don’t have to travel to the west coast for a glimpse into the world of movies and celebrities. Just head to Asheville, North Carolina during the Asheville Film Festival, usually held in the fall.

Soon to celebrate its sixth year, the Asheville Film Festival has played host to over 300 filmmakers and their works.

Special guests of previous festivals have included Andie McDowell, Tess Harper, Robby Benson and Jennifer Tilley.

Popular movies such as Last of the Mohicans, Dirty Dancing, Forrest Gump and Hannibal, among others, have been filmed in Asheville and the surrounding areas, making it a picturesque backdrop for a festival highlighting films and those who create them.

In addition, all venues are in the scenic downtown area within walking distance. In between events, visitors can sample restaurants and browse the shops for unique items.

Lights
You don’t have to be a movie star to party like one – you just need a ticket. Special screenings and receptions take place each night and tickets are available prior to the festival, from a premiere night gala to an after-movie Q and A with featured actors.

You can also snag tickets for the Spotlight Celebration Awards Ceremony and Reception, where winners for the short, animations, student, documentary and feature films are announced. Mingle and enjoy food and beverages at the reception following the ceremony.
 
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To learn more about film-making, festival goers can take advantage of a variety of educational workshops. Success in Writing and Directing, Filmmaking for Beginners, and Success in the Industry are a few offerings 2007 attendees choose from. Workshops are lead by actors, directors, producers and other industry professionals, and are (best of all!) free. 

Asheville!
In between film festival events, carve out time to visit the area’s attractions and restaurants.
The Biltmore Estate is a popular option, with tours through the estate and wine seminars and wine tasting at the Biltmore Winery.

Consider taking advantage of some precious ‘me’ time at The Spa at The AAA Four Diamond rated Grove Park Inn Resort.  Color and Light Wrap with Aura Imaging, the Carolina Mud Pie Wrap and the Sanctuary of the Senses Facial are some of the exclusive treatments offered here. Day passes are available to non-guests, though a tour of this impressive resort may persuade you into an overnight stay.

Opened in 1913 by millionaire, E.W. Grove, the Inn has hosted the likes of Will Rogers, George Gershwin, and F. Scott Fitzgerald (to name only a few!) Massive fireplaces warm the lobby, and outdoor walks reveal sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Another E.W. Grove contribution is the Grove Arcade in downtown Asheville, within easy walking from many film festival events. One of the last shopping arcades built in the U.S, the arcade has been beautifully restored to its former glory. This 269,000 square foot historical landmark boasts striking architecture, and is brimming with shops, varied dining options, and unique galleries that play host to local and regional arts and crafts.

If you’d rather spend time outdoors, a driving tour throughout the scenic area is well worth the gas money. Since the festival usually occurs during peak leaf-viewing season, prepare to be awed at the quilt of colors blanketing the trees.

Be sure to sample one of the many eclectic dining options in Asheville. The city’s diverse population is reflected in the restaurant scene with anything from Mediterranean and Native American foods to French and good ol’ southern cookin’.

 A visit to Asheville is great any time of the year. However, if you come during the film festival, you can get a taste of Hollywood without the jet lag.