Time flies when you’re having fun, Asheville. And boy did we have fun in 2021. So far this year, we’ve sent a total of 253 newsletters and posted 700+ posts on social media with the goal of keeping our community informed, activated + engaged.

But before we pop any bottles, let’s look back on your favorite stories from 2021 and take a moment of appreciation for all the readers and members of the community that made this year so spectacular.

A greenhouse chock full of hemp at Franny’s Farmacy | Photo by @frannysfarmacy

1. The deets on Delta-8, aka ‘marijuana lite,’ in Asheville

July 20, 25,731 views
Delta-8, which is legal and available in Asheville, is a cannabinoid with side effects similar to THC, albeit much less potent.

2. 44 businesses that have closed, opened, and are coming soon

May 26, 13,439 views
This year, we bid adieu to some AVL faves, but also got to wave hello to a slew of new shops, restaurants + hangouts. Here’s a look back at what came and went in 2021.

3. Asheville named the No. 15 city in the US

Sept. 24, 9,989 views
Travel & Leisure ranked AVL #15 on its annual list of the best cities in the US –– but in our hearts, it’s #1.

4. 83 patios to visit this spring

March 8, 8,672 views
Your favorite, comprehensive list of patios to hit up when the temps start rising once again.

5. The absolute best french fries in Asheville

July 13, 6,960 views
Whether they're dipped in ketchup or covered in kimchi, we've got all the need-to-know details about Asheville's french fry scene.

6. Little Chango opens in South Slope

Nov. 15, 6,832 views
A spectacular slice of Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Hispanic culture arrived in Asheville’s South Slope this fall in the form of a tiny, vibrant yellow eatery, and Coxe Ave. hasn't been the same since.