Colorful bears make a lasting difference

Hendersonville's Bearfootin’ Art Walk has reached another fundraising milestone, with its 24th annual bear auction raising a record $145,700 for local nonprofits.

The yearly project brings imaginative, artist-painted bear sculptures to downtown streets, then auctions the works to support community organizations.

Record bidding and a downtown celebration

The two-week virtual auction attracted 80 bidders who placed 327 bids.

Six sculptures were purchased through a $10,000 Buy Now option before the auction concluded.

During the final hour, supporters gathered near the Historic Courthouse Plaza to follow the closing bids and celebrate the fundraising total.

The event blends civic pride with art, giving visitors distinctive displays to discover throughout the season and offering collectors the chance to support local causes.

Where the funds go

Each bear supports a designated nonprofit.

Under the program's formula, the first $3,000 of an individual winning bid is split with Friends of Downtown Hendersonville, which helps sustain the event and the downtown program.

Proceeds above that amount go to the bear's designated nonprofit, increasing the direct community benefit when bidding climbs higher.

Part of Hendersonville's identity

The Art Walk has become one of the downtown's recognizable traditions, combining local artists, participating sponsors and public spaces into a community-wide exhibition.

For residents and visitors, the annual appearance of the bears can be as memorable as the auction itself.

The new record illustrates how a creative idea can generate both downtown activity and important nonprofit support.

The 2026 fundraising result has been confirmed; future sponsorships and next year's event details should be checked with organizers as they are announced.