Ethno USA

Ethno USA participants will stay at the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly, across the valley from LEAF festival in Black Mountain, NC.  Blue Ridge is a serene retreat with a challenge course and miles upon miles of hiking trails.

Founder Dr. Weatherford inspired Blue Ridge’s motivating philosophy, saying:  “…real work can only be measured in terms of what it does to and for people.  We dare not spend our energy in doing anything less than making better human beings.”

As a place of retreat and a provider and platform for life-long learning and connection, Blue Ridge is the place where people can truly recapture the joy of interpersonal relationships in the wonder of God’s creation. Our goal is to equip people of all ages not only for success in a global society, but for a well-balanced life in spirit, mind and body.

Asheville is a unique, special place that will linger sweetly in your memories for years to come. The city’s rich architectural legacy with its mix of Art Deco, Beaux Arts and Neoclassical styles is the perfect retro-urban backdrop to the edgy energy that emanates from the locally owned-shops and art galleries, distinctive restaurants and exciting entertainment venues.

A bastion of cutting-edge art and technology in the Blue Ridge area, the city also prides itself on its fascinating Appalachian past and celebrates this culture with annual events such as Shindig On The Green. While many cities underwent major overhauls in past decades, Asheville’s historic and architecturally diverse downtown remains beautifully preserved.

There’s something special about Asheville, and the world is just beginning to discover it. This mountain city features a funky and eclectic downtown, 30-plus art galleries downtown alone, a burgeoning culinary scene, a thriving live music scene and, of course, the awe-inspiring scenery of the Appalachian Mountains.