Nestled in the picturesque valley of Cullowhee, N.C., Western Carolina University serves as a vibrant center for academic excellence, outdoor adventure, and cultural enrichment. With a partnership with
TicketSmarter, WCU is excited to offer the Catamounts community
an exclusive 5% discount with the code CATAMOUNTS5, inviting everyone to dive into the plethora of events, athletic competitions, and arts that paint the canvas of Western North Carolina and beyond.
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Cullowhee and Beyond: Embracing the Great Outdoors and Cultural Riches
WCU's location in the Great Smoky Mountains offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking and biking on the Tuckasegee River Trail to exploring the natural beauty of the Nantahala National Forest. But there's more to this region than its stunning landscapes:
- Professional and Minor League Sports: While the immediate Cullowhee area may not host professional teams, the spirit of sportsmanship thrives through collegiate athletics at WCU, with the Catamounts competing in a variety of NCAA sports. Nearby Asheville and Charlotte expand the sports horizon, with minor league teams like the Asheville Tourists (Minor League Baseball), the High-A Affiliate of the Houston Astros and professional outfits such as the Charlotte Hornets (NBA) and Carolina Panthers (NFL) a short drive away, offering high-level sports action.
- Venues and Theaters: The Bardo Arts Center at WCU is a cultural hub, hosting musicals, plays, and art exhibitions that enrich the campus and local community. In Asheville, the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium and the Orange Peel provide stages for a wide array of concerts and theater productions, while Charlotte's Blumenthal Performing Arts Center and the PNC Music Pavilion offer big-name concerts and Broadway tours. Grab your Foo Fighters tickets or Janet Jackson tickets and make your way to PNC. For Broadway fans, tickets to Mean Girls at Belk Theatre may be your preference.
Arts, Music, and More in Western North Carolina
The region's arts scene is vibrant and diverse, with local festivals like the Mountain Heritage Day in Cullowhee celebrating Appalachian culture, music, and crafts. Asheville's vibrant arts scene, known for its live music and galleries, and the Asheville Community Theatre offer enriching experiences just a short drive from WCU. Catch
Billy Strings at Harrah's Cherokee Center in Asheville.
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Community Engagement and Festivals
WCU's community is deeply integrated with the local and regional culture, participating in events such as the Folkmoot USA, an international dance and music festival held in nearby Waynesville, and the LEAF Festival in Black Mountain, showcasing global music, art, and culture. These festivals provide a fantastic backdrop for students and faculty to engage with the community and experience the rich cultural tapestry of Western North Carolina.
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Explore and Engage with Western Carolina University
Western Carolina University, in collaboration with TicketSmarter, encourages the Catamounts community to explore the diverse array of cultural, athletic, and outdoor activities that Cullowhee and the surrounding areas have to offer. With the
CATAMOUNTS5 code, immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Western North Carolina, where every day is an opportunity to discover something new, whether it's the thrill of a sports game, the beauty of a musical performance, or the serenity of the great outdoors.
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At WCU, education is a journey that goes beyond the classroom, embracing the adventures and cultural richness of our region. Join us at Western Carolina University, where your academic pursuits are intertwined with a world of exploration, creativity, and community spirit.
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