PLANT A SEED.
GROW A GARDEN.

Fund The 2026 Festival

Two women sitting on chairs on a stage in front of a large colorful screen at the Connect Beyond Festival, promoting a fireside chat with Megan Twohey about her work as a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and investigative reporter, with logos of sponsors at the bottom.

Since 2018, Connect Beyond Festival has been a movement & experience unlike any other in WNC.

Every year, we move forward with one goal:

Let’s inspire meaningful social change.

DONATE NOW

Audience seated and waiting at an event in a dimly lit venue with colorful signs and lights.
3% Cover the Fee

Connect Beyond is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Your donation is tax-deductible. You will receive a receipt by email after your donation for your tax records. For donations larger than $1,000, please contact partnerships@connectbeyondfestival.com.

Curiosity

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Creativity

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Collaboration

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Curiosity · Creativity · Collaboration ·

In 2026, attendees will experience our boldest vision to date…

A black and white drawing of a surreal scene with interconnected elements including trees with human faces, birds emerging from televisions in trees, and a person playing piano. In the background, there is a house, clouds, a landscape, and people walking with a child.

Join us at The Orange Peel in May 2026 and experience “The Community Garden,” an interactive art experience taking over the entire venue. During the weekend, attendees will fully immerse in a multi-sensory, multimedia “garden.”

A graphic titled "What People Are Saying" features three speakers at the Connect Beyond Festival, including Bob Boilen, Joseph Hudak, and Albert Berger, each with a photo, name, role, and a quote about the festival.

OUR MISSION

  • Created By Artists

    We realize our vision through thoughtfully curated panels, readings, performances, and screenings featuring filmmakers, musicians, authors, academics, journalists, and activists.


  • Community-Fostered Connection

    Connected By Community

    Together, we explore our shared experiences and differences, addressing today’s most pressing challenges and fostering connection—all in service to the human condition.

  • Inclusivity and Interactivity

    Youthful Ideas, Seasoned Perspectives

    Our events are designed to be inclusive and interactive, blending fresh, youthful ideas with seasoned perspectives.

  • Accessible to All

    Accessible To All

    We welcome a diverse community of pioneers across disciplines, ensuring our programming is accessible, relevant, and impactful for all.