Bearfootin' Art Walk

Since 2003, the Bearfootin’ Art Walk has helped raise funding for Downtown Hendersonville and a variety of local non-profits. In addition to raising funds, the bears offer a window into the variety of good work being done by non-profits and community organizations in Henderson County.

The Bearfootin’ Bears arrive as blank slates before local artists transform each in a spectacular fashion, with creative themes ranging from Mona Lisa to Blue Ridge Mountain scenery. After the “Reveal” event in early May, the bears then take up residence in downtown Hendersonville for the duration of the summer and fall, up until auction. Participants bid at the live auction to raise funds for local non-profits and Downtown Hendersonville. Winning bids up to $3,000 are split evenly between the downtown program and the non-profit chosen by the sponsor, while bid amounts exceeding $3,000 are directed entirely to the non-profit.

 See the 2020 Bearfootin' Bears Brochure!

2020 Bearfootin’ Art Walk Event Dates

Bear Reveal: May 8, 2020

Bear Auction: October 24, 2020 at the Center for Art and Entertainment at 125 S. Main Street

Proxy Bidding: Those who can't be in town are encouraged to use a proxy bidding option. All you have to do is pick your favorite bear, set a maximum bid and we will take care of the rest using a live on-site bidder to compete for the bear you’re interested in. Contact Meredith Friedheim at 828.233.3205 or mfriedheim@hvlnc.gov by Oct. 17 to place your proxy bid ($1000 minimum).

Sponsor Interest
Interested in becoming a bear sponsor? Reservations are limited! Contact Downtown Events Coordinator Meredith Friedheim at mfriedheim@hvlnc.gov for more information.