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Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Saturday, December 13, 2025
Firestorm Pop up Craft Days
Dec 13 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Firestorm Books

Firestorm Books on Haywood Road is rebooting its annual holiday craft pop-up series, now in its sixth year! Featuring the work of 16+ local artists, this event will be a fundraiser for the Gaza Soup Kitchen and highlights affordable, giftable items that can only be found in Asheville.

This year’s craft pop-up will include two dates: Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th (the start of Hanukkah, ten days before Xmas Eve). Beginning at 11am and ending at 4pm, each date will have a different selection of artists showcasing baked goods, fiber arts, ceramics, art prints, jewelry, and more. The pop-up will take place outdoors at 1022 Haywood Road in West Asheville, or inside the bookstore at the same address in case of inclement weather.

Participating artists have committed to donate 25% of at least the first $250 in sales made to the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots NGO feeding thousands daily in Gaza. Attendees will have additional opportunities to support the lifesaving work of the humanitarian aid organization. More information on the Gaza Soup Kitchen can be found at https://gazasoupkitchen.org.

 

Firestorm Pop up Craft Days
Dec 13 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Firestorm Books

Firestorm Books on Haywood Road is rebooting its annual holiday craft pop-up series, now in its sixth year! Featuring the work of 16+ local artists, this event will be a fundraiser for the Gaza Soup Kitchen and highlights affordable, giftable items that can only be found in Asheville.

This year’s craft pop-up will include two dates: Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th (the start of Hanukkah, ten days before Xmas Eve). Beginning at 11am and ending at 4pm, each date will have a different selection of artists showcasing baked goods, fiber arts, ceramics, art prints, jewelry, and more. The pop-up will take place outdoors at 1022 Haywood Road in West Asheville, or inside the bookstore at the same address in case of inclement weather.

Participating artists have committed to donate 25% of at least the first $250 in sales made to the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots NGO feeding thousands daily in Gaza. Attendees will have additional opportunities to support the lifesaving work of the humanitarian aid organization. More information on the Gaza Soup Kitchen can be found at https://gazasoupkitchen.org.

 

Firestorm Pop up Craft Days
Dec 13 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Firestorm Books

Firestorm Books on Haywood Road is rebooting its annual holiday craft pop-up series, now in its sixth year! Featuring the work of 16+ local artists, this event will be a fundraiser for the Gaza Soup Kitchen and highlights affordable, giftable items that can only be found in Asheville.

This year’s craft pop-up will include two dates: Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th (the start of Hanukkah, ten days before Xmas Eve). Beginning at 11am and ending at 4pm, each date will have a different selection of artists showcasing baked goods, fiber arts, ceramics, art prints, jewelry, and more. The pop-up will take place outdoors at 1022 Haywood Road in West Asheville, or inside the bookstore at the same address in case of inclement weather.

Participating artists have committed to donate 25% of at least the first $250 in sales made to the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots NGO feeding thousands daily in Gaza. Attendees will have additional opportunities to support the lifesaving work of the humanitarian aid organization. More information on the Gaza Soup Kitchen can be found at https://gazasoupkitchen.org.

 

Santa at the Bandstand
Dec 13 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Capture that classic Christmas moment you and your children will never outgrow. Afterward, explore all that Antler Hill Village has to offer: ice cream at The Creamery, friendly animals at our Farmyard, plus Pisgah Playground, shops, restaurants, and an award-winning Winery.

Dates available:

November 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 28-30

December 6-7, 13-14, 17-24

AVL Clay Winter Wonderland Pottery Sale
Dec 13 @ 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
AVL Clay

Join us at AVL Clay for our first Winter Wonderland Pottery Sale and Manna FoodBank fundraiser.
Shop local this season at AVL Clay! We’re excited to share the latest handmade pieces from our talented members. Support Manna Food Bank, enjoy live music, and discover a lovely assortment of ceramic gifts. And be sure to swing by our neighbor, Altamont Vintage!

Candlelight Christmas Tours at Historic Johnson Farm
Dec 13 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Historic Johnson Farm

Candlelight Christmas Tours in Hendersonville, NC

5:00, 5:45, 6:30 & 7:15 pm
at 3346 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville
The Historic Johnson Farm, one of the oldest brick structures in Henderson County, hosts candlelight tours of the decorated 1880 farmhouse. Experience what Christmas was like in the 19th Century, visit with the Heritage Weavers and Fiber Artists, listen to live music by local students, and enjoy hot cocoa and cookies.

The farm is owned and operated by the local school system. Advance tickets are required as space is limited. Call 828-891-6585 or email [email protected] to make your reservation.

Home for the Holidays: A Victorian Holiday Open House of the Old Kentucky Home
Dec 13 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Thomas Wolfe Memorial State Historic Site

Step into History This Holiday Season

Join us for the “Home for the Holidays: A Victorian Holiday Open House of the Old Kentucky Home.” Experience the warmth and charm of Holiday traditions in Thomas Wolfe’s world. Come see the home all dressed up in its Christmas finest! Guests will walk through the boardinghouse at their leisure to view this pop-up Holiday Traditions exhibit.

Enjoy holiday crafts, our exhibit hall, Christmas cookies, and warm apple cider in the Memorial’s Visitor Center. Last admittance into the house is 6:45pm.

Tickets are $10/person and can be purchased on at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/home-for-the-holidays-a-victorian-holiday-open-house-of-the-old-kentucky-home

This event supports the Thomas Wolfe Memorial in Asheville, North Carolina, championing education, enrichment, and Thomas Wolfe’s legacy. Your presence helps sustain a space where literature, history, and community come together

Winter Lights Trolley
Dec 13 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Biltmore Park

Winter Lights is excited to provide an all-new premium trolley experience, in partnership with Biltmore Park Town Square and Gray Line Trolley Tours! Skip the lines and ride the Winter Lights Trolley!

Enjoy dinner and shopping at Biltmore Park Town Square before hopping on the Winter Lights Trolley to experience Winter Lights!

Ride the Winter Lights Trolley Friday November 28 and select Fridays and Saturdays in December. Trolleys depart from Biltmore Park Town Square every half hour, beginning at 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $50 per-person and available select dates only.

Emberfrost: A Fae Masquerade @ Fae Nectar Tavern
Dec 13 @ 7:00 pm
Fae Nectar Meadery

Once again, the magic of the Fae will fill our Great Hall with whimsy and elegance, illuminating the night in a spectacle of music, dance, and shared revelry to warm the winter’s chill. The sylvan sounds of Holler & Crow will grace the stage as we waltz through the evening, and in the witching hours DJ Jaime ignites the dance floor with enchanted rhythms that turn our royal court into pure revelry.

Don’t forget to attire yourself, and your entourage, in your finest regalia! A masque is required, and our Costume Contest will reward the most resplendent creations with generous prizes during our grand on-stage finale.

Join us on Saturday, December 13th, for an unforgettable night of enchantment and revelry at the next incredible Fae Masquerade!

The first 50 tickets are available at Early-Bird prices!
🌙 Indoor event | Ages 18+
🏰 Great Hall doors open at 7 PM
💃 Formal festivities begin at 8 PM

Holidays at Peace
Dec 13 @ 7:00 pm
Peace Center
Greenville Symphony Orchestra presents “Holiday at Peace: Greenville’s favorite Christmas family tradition”.
Showings:
December 12, 2025  |  Fri
7:00pm
December 13, 2025  |  Sat
7:00pm
December 14, 2025  |  Sun
2:00pm
Sunday, December 14, 2025
Return To Bethlehem
Dec 14 all-day
Groce United Methodist Church

Come experience the marketplace as it might have been when Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Be a part of the story… that came true!

Return To Bethlehem hours:

Thursday – December 11, 6-8:30

Friday – December 12, 6-8:30

Saturday – December 13, 2-8:30

Sunday – December 14, 2-6

Hosted by Groce United Methodist, 954 Tunnel Rd.

There are over 50 roles to make this story come alive and we would love if you came to be a part of it!
Please contact Pam Barbee at [email protected] or (828) 398-6618 for inquiries.
Return to Bethlehem is ABCCM’s gift to the community, donations are welcome in Bethlehem.

Firestorm Pop up Craft Days
Dec 14 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Firestorm Books

Firestorm Books on Haywood Road is rebooting its annual holiday craft pop-up series, now in its sixth year! Featuring the work of 16+ local artists, this event will be a fundraiser for the Gaza Soup Kitchen and highlights affordable, giftable items that can only be found in Asheville.

This year’s craft pop-up will include two dates: Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th (the start of Hanukkah, ten days before Xmas Eve). Beginning at 11am and ending at 4pm, each date will have a different selection of artists showcasing baked goods, fiber arts, ceramics, art prints, jewelry, and more. The pop-up will take place outdoors at 1022 Haywood Road in West Asheville, or inside the bookstore at the same address in case of inclement weather.

Participating artists have committed to donate 25% of at least the first $250 in sales made to the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots NGO feeding thousands daily in Gaza. Attendees will have additional opportunities to support the lifesaving work of the humanitarian aid organization. More information on the Gaza Soup Kitchen can be found at https://gazasoupkitchen.org.

 

Firestorm Pop up Craft Days
Dec 14 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Firestorm Books

Firestorm Books on Haywood Road is rebooting its annual holiday craft pop-up series, now in its sixth year! Featuring the work of 16+ local artists, this event will be a fundraiser for the Gaza Soup Kitchen and highlights affordable, giftable items that can only be found in Asheville.

This year’s craft pop-up will include two dates: Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th (the start of Hanukkah, ten days before Xmas Eve). Beginning at 11am and ending at 4pm, each date will have a different selection of artists showcasing baked goods, fiber arts, ceramics, art prints, jewelry, and more. The pop-up will take place outdoors at 1022 Haywood Road in West Asheville, or inside the bookstore at the same address in case of inclement weather.

Participating artists have committed to donate 25% of at least the first $250 in sales made to the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots NGO feeding thousands daily in Gaza. Attendees will have additional opportunities to support the lifesaving work of the humanitarian aid organization. More information on the Gaza Soup Kitchen can be found at https://gazasoupkitchen.org.

 

Firestorm Pop up Craft Days
Dec 14 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Firestorm Books

Firestorm Books on Haywood Road is rebooting its annual holiday craft pop-up series, now in its sixth year! Featuring the work of 16+ local artists, this event will be a fundraiser for the Gaza Soup Kitchen and highlights affordable, giftable items that can only be found in Asheville.

This year’s craft pop-up will include two dates: Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th (the start of Hanukkah, ten days before Xmas Eve). Beginning at 11am and ending at 4pm, each date will have a different selection of artists showcasing baked goods, fiber arts, ceramics, art prints, jewelry, and more. The pop-up will take place outdoors at 1022 Haywood Road in West Asheville, or inside the bookstore at the same address in case of inclement weather.

Participating artists have committed to donate 25% of at least the first $250 in sales made to the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots NGO feeding thousands daily in Gaza. Attendees will have additional opportunities to support the lifesaving work of the humanitarian aid organization. More information on the Gaza Soup Kitchen can be found at https://gazasoupkitchen.org.

 

Santa at the Bandstand
Dec 14 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Capture that classic Christmas moment you and your children will never outgrow. Afterward, explore all that Antler Hill Village has to offer: ice cream at The Creamery, friendly animals at our Farmyard, plus Pisgah Playground, shops, restaurants, and an award-winning Winery.

Dates available:

November 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 28-30

December 6-7, 13-14, 17-24

Blue Ridge Ringers “An International Christmas”
Dec 14 @ 4:00 pm
Lutheran Church of the Nativity

The Blue Ridge Ringers announce “An International Christmas” concert series celebrating the holiday season. This concert series will include holiday selections from around the world with varied styles.

Jim Brickman: The Gift Of Christmas
Dec 14 @ 4:00 pm
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

Jim Brickman’s distinctive piano style and captivating live performances have revolutionized the popularity of instrumental music, making him a driving force behind modern American music. The hit-making songwriter is the best-selling solo pianist of our time, earning 22 Number One albums and 32 Top 20 Radio Singles. He’s garnered two Grammy nominations, Gospel Music’s Dove Award, two SESAC Songwriter of the Year Awards, a Canadian Country Music Award, and is a member of Pandora’s “2 Billion Streams” Club.

 

Carolina Horse & Carriage Rides
Dec 14 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Main Street

Holiday carriage rides amidst Christmas lights in Hendersonville, NC

5:00-8:00 pm on Main Street
Cuddle under a warm blanket and enjoy a festive Main Street carriage ride with Carolina Horse & Carriage. This wonderful holiday experience is set amidst the twinkling lights and Christmas decorations of downtown Hendersonville.

Cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children (free for children under 2). Advance reservations are strongly encouraged by contacting Carolina Horse & Carriage. Walk-ups are accepted only if space is available. Starting point is the Historic Henderson County Courthouse on Main Street.

Holidays at Peace
Dec 14 @ 7:00 pm
Peace Center
Greenville Symphony Orchestra presents “Holiday at Peace: Greenville’s favorite Christmas family tradition”.
Showings:
December 12, 2025  |  Fri
7:00pm
December 13, 2025  |  Sat
7:00pm
December 14, 2025  |  Sun
2:00pm
Monday, December 15, 2025
Daytime Christmas Tours at Historic Johnson Farm
Dec 15 @ 10:30 am
Historic Johnson Farm

Candlelight Christmas Tours in Hendersonville, NC

10:30 am weekdays only at 3346 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville
Guided tours of the decorated 1880 farmhouse, one of the oldest brick structures in Henderson County. Experience what Christmastime was like in the late 1800s and early 1900s at this restored farm owned and operated by the local school system.

This is a ticketed event and reservations are recommended. Drop-ins accommodated if space allows. Self-guided tours are available from 1-3 p.m. weekdays.

Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Daytime Christmas Tours at Historic Johnson Farm
Dec 16 @ 10:30 am
Historic Johnson Farm

Candlelight Christmas Tours in Hendersonville, NC

10:30 am weekdays only at 3346 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville
Guided tours of the decorated 1880 farmhouse, one of the oldest brick structures in Henderson County. Experience what Christmastime was like in the late 1800s and early 1900s at this restored farm owned and operated by the local school system.

This is a ticketed event and reservations are recommended. Drop-ins accommodated if space allows. Self-guided tours are available from 1-3 p.m. weekdays.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Daytime Christmas Tours at Historic Johnson Farm
Dec 17 @ 10:30 am
Historic Johnson Farm

Candlelight Christmas Tours in Hendersonville, NC

10:30 am weekdays only at 3346 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville
Guided tours of the decorated 1880 farmhouse, one of the oldest brick structures in Henderson County. Experience what Christmastime was like in the late 1800s and early 1900s at this restored farm owned and operated by the local school system.

This is a ticketed event and reservations are recommended. Drop-ins accommodated if space allows. Self-guided tours are available from 1-3 p.m. weekdays.

Santa at the Bandstand
Dec 17 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Capture that classic Christmas moment you and your children will never outgrow. Afterward, explore all that Antler Hill Village has to offer: ice cream at The Creamery, friendly animals at our Farmyard, plus Pisgah Playground, shops, restaurants, and an award-winning Winery.

Dates available:

November 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 28-30

December 6-7, 13-14, 17-24

Thursday, December 18, 2025
2025 The Polar Express Train Ride
Dec 18 – Dec 31 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

2025 THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride (GSMR)

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, NC

Experience the magic this holiday season! Join us for a truly magical recreation of the classic holiday story, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. Climb aboard one of our powerful locomotives and historic train cars as it departs our Bryson City Depot for the North Pole to pick up Santa Claus himself. Upon arriving at our depot, you’ll be immersed in the story as our chefs serve you hot chocolate and sweet treats while singing and dancing all the way to the Pole! On the return trip to Bryson City, Santa will visit each coach and hand out the first gift of Christmas to each child.
Deck the Trees
Dec 18 2025 – Jan 5 2026 all-day
Peri Social House

Mark your calendars — December 5, 2025, through January 5, 2026 — the beloved Deck the Trees holiday tradition is back, bigger and brighter than ever!

Now celebrating 15 years, Deck the Trees will once again bring holiday wonder to Black Mountain and Swannanoa, all for a great cause. This cherished fundraiser benefits the Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministry (SVCM) Fuel Fund, which helps neighbors in need to keep their homes warm during winter.

This year’s theme, “Christmas in Music & Song,” will inspire more than 50 beautifully decorated trees across town. You’ll find many of them at Peri Social House, Tyson Furniture Company, and White Horse Black Mountain, plus dozens of other local businesses decked out for the season.

How It Works:
From December 5 to January 5, you can vote for your favorite tree(s) by donating $1 per vote. Vote as many times as you’d like. Every dollar goes directly to the SVCM Fuel Fund. Voting is easy:

-Scan the QR code at each tree to donate online
-Or drop cash or checks in the donation box next to the tree
(Online donations encouraged.)

Can’t Visit in Person?
A full list of locations — plus photos of every tree — will be posted soon on the SVCM Deck the Trees website so you can vote from anywhere.

Follow the Festivities:
Stay updated on this year’s dazzling displays and special moments by following SVCM on Facebook (facebook.com/svcmcares) and Instagram (@svcmwnc).

This holiday season, let your heart and your votes warm homes across our valley!

Holiday Ice Rink
Dec 18 2025 – Jan 19 2026 all-day
Asheville Yards

Step into the magic of the season at the Holiday Ice Rink at Asheville Yards – the destination for ice skating in Asheville, NC. Glide across our real, outdoor ice rink, surrounded by twinkling lights, festive music and holiday vibes.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a festive date night or a weekend adventure, we have something for everyone to enjoy including holiday-inspired craft cocktails and hot chocolate, festive photo ops, a winter market and weekly theme nights.

Don’t miss your chance to create unforgettable memories this holiday season.

Admission to Asheville Yards is FREE to all non-skaters, all season long.

Magic of Lights at Hollywild Animal Preserve
Dec 18 2025 – Jan 3 2026 all-day
Hollywild Animal Preserve

Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience Magic of Lights from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path of Greenville’s best holiday tradition. Be sure to stop by Santa’s Village and the Enchanted Deer Forest for extra holiday magic! Kids 2 and under are free!

Step into the magic of Santa’s Village, where holiday cheer meets hands-on fun for the whole family. Feed and interact with gentle miniature horses, camels, Watusi cattle, pigs, sheep, alpacas, goats, waterfowl, antelope, and more—and don’t forget to purchase animal food to treat the many residents. Cuddle with bunnies, have your photo taken with a baby kangaroo, snap pictures with Santa in his animal barn, and visit the Grinch at his festive Grinch House.

Savor fresh coffee and pastries at Santa’s Sweet Delights, or enjoy hot cocoa, drinks, snacks, and food from our concession stand. Visit the souvenir shop for fun, colorful, and festive items, and leave your mark on the “feel good” graffiti board. Warm up by a crackling fire pit or the grand bonfire, roast marshmallows and s’mores, and steal a kiss under the mistletoe tree. Pose inside the giant lighted present, then find a picnic table to relax and take it all in.

Santa’s Village is more than a visit, it’s a memory in the making.

Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt
Dec 18 – Dec 23 all-day
Main Street

Nov. 28-Dec. 23 • Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt

Downtown Hendersonville
Peppermint Bear takes you on a fun-filled bear hunt in downtown Hendersonville in search of her lost cubs. Hint: the cubs are hiding in downtown businesses.

Once you have found a lost cub in at least 12 of 28 participating businesses and the shopkeeper has punched your brochure, you are eligible to win scavenger hunt prizes. To enter, submit an image of your brochure via our online entry form by scanning the provided QR code by Dec. 23. Find out how it works here.

Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt brochures will be available at the Hendersonville Welcome Center, located at 201 South Main Street, starting Nov. 28

Daytime Christmas Tours at Historic Johnson Farm
Dec 18 @ 10:30 am
Historic Johnson Farm

Candlelight Christmas Tours in Hendersonville, NC

10:30 am weekdays only at 3346 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville
Guided tours of the decorated 1880 farmhouse, one of the oldest brick structures in Henderson County. Experience what Christmastime was like in the late 1800s and early 1900s at this restored farm owned and operated by the local school system.

This is a ticketed event and reservations are recommended. Drop-ins accommodated if space allows. Self-guided tours are available from 1-3 p.m. weekdays.

Santa at the Bandstand
Dec 18 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Capture that classic Christmas moment you and your children will never outgrow. Afterward, explore all that Antler Hill Village has to offer: ice cream at The Creamery, friendly animals at our Farmyard, plus Pisgah Playground, shops, restaurants, and an award-winning Winery.

Dates available:

November 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 28-30

December 6-7, 13-14, 17-24