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.

Monday, December 8, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 8 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 9 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 10 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Thursday, December 11, 2025
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical
Dec 11 all-day
Asheville Community Theater

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical

December 5 – 21, 2025

Thursdays, Fridays, & Select Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM

December 5 – 21, 2025
Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Based on the animated television special – Adapted by Robert Penola, Music & Lyrics by Johnny Marks
Sponsored by: Mast General Store

The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage! Join Rudolph, Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius, and all your favorite characters as they come to life in this heartwarming holiday musical. Featuring iconic songs like “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year,” this show celebrates the 61st anniversary of the cherished Christmas special. Perfect for the whole family!

Run Time: 90 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.
Accessibility: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating and Listening Devices are available for all Mainstage performances.
Content Awareness: This show is suitable for all audiences.

Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 11 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Friday, December 12, 2025
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical
Dec 12 all-day
Asheville Community Theater

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical

December 5 – 21, 2025

Thursdays, Fridays, & Select Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM

December 5 – 21, 2025
Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Based on the animated television special – Adapted by Robert Penola, Music & Lyrics by Johnny Marks
Sponsored by: Mast General Store

The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage! Join Rudolph, Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius, and all your favorite characters as they come to life in this heartwarming holiday musical. Featuring iconic songs like “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year,” this show celebrates the 61st anniversary of the cherished Christmas special. Perfect for the whole family!

Run Time: 90 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.
Accessibility: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating and Listening Devices are available for all Mainstage performances.
Content Awareness: This show is suitable for all audiences.

Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 12 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

AJT’s Christmas Spectacular
Dec 12 @ 5:00 pm – Dec 13 @ 2:00 pm
AJT Studio

🎄 Second Annual Christmas Spectacular! 🎄

Step into a Winter Wonderland and experience the magic of the season at our Second Annual Christmas Spectacular— a joyful holiday showcase filled with music, dance, and festive fun for the whole family!

This year’s show features an Enchanted Forest theme, complete with festive holiday songs, tap and jazz dancing, and breathtaking aerial silks performances. You’ll also enjoy reimagined Christmas classics and a show-stopping hip-hop Nutcracker number that’s sure to bring the house down!

Enjoy performances by our 1-Year Choir students, Chamber Choir, and Performance Media Crew (dance troupe), plus a special preview number from our upcoming production of The Lion King Jr. at Wortham Center for the Arts (Jan. 10 & 11).

✨ 3 Showtimes:

Friday, December 12 – 5:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 13 – 2:00 PM
📍 Location:
174 Bradley Branch, Unit 4/5, 28704
(Please enter from the front side of the building.)

☕ Refreshments will be available for sale, with all proceeds benefiting AJT.

❄️ Expect an indoor snowstorm and plenty of sparkle and surprises along the way!

🎫 Seating is general admission (first come, first served).

🌟 Tickets will sell out quickly! Last year’s two shows completely sold out — so this year we’ve added a third performance to make room for everyone. Don’t wait — grab your tickets early and join us for this heartwarming, high-energy holiday celebration!

🎟️ Purchase your seats today for a truly spectacular Christmas experience!

The 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk created by Asheville Plays
Dec 12 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
The Adventure Center of Asheville

Celebrate the magic of the season at the 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk—an enchanting outdoor story experience where live theater meets a whimsical walk through the woods! Created by Asheville Plays and hosted by the Adventure Center of Asheville, this immersive journey guides guests through the Kingdom of Winterland, where each page of the story comes to life with delightful characters and heartwarming surprises. This family-friendly event has been created with everyone in minde, no matter your age or what you may celebrate during the winter holiday season. Winter Wonder Walk includes the outdoor storywalk, a heated holiday tent featuring a local vendor market, a kids’ play area, and several tasty concession and beverage options. Guests ages 4+ can also enjoy the Treetops Adventure Park Glow Trail, aglow with thousands of twinkling lights. Every ticket purchased helps spread joy even further—each one supports MANNA FoodBank and their mission to feed our community.Kids 12 and younger can earn a free general admission ticket by participating in our “S’Mitten With Books” reading program! Bundle up and bring the whole family—it’s the perfect way to make magical memories and give back this holiday season!
2025 Dates: November 29 & 30 and December 6, 7, 13, 14
Festivities begin at 6 PM | Winter Wonder Walk opens at 6:30 PM
Tickets & FAQs at www.winterwonderwalk.com

Saturday, December 13, 2025
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical
Dec 13 all-day
Asheville Community Theater

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical

December 5 – 21, 2025

Thursdays, Fridays, & Select Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM

December 5 – 21, 2025
Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Based on the animated television special – Adapted by Robert Penola, Music & Lyrics by Johnny Marks
Sponsored by: Mast General Store

The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage! Join Rudolph, Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius, and all your favorite characters as they come to life in this heartwarming holiday musical. Featuring iconic songs like “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year,” this show celebrates the 61st anniversary of the cherished Christmas special. Perfect for the whole family!

Run Time: 90 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.
Accessibility: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating and Listening Devices are available for all Mainstage performances.
Content Awareness: This show is suitable for all audiences.

Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 13 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

28th Annual Santa on the Chimney
Dec 13 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park

28th Annual Santa on the Chimney

Time: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Cost: Included with Park admission.

Santa has a big job climbing down all the chimneys in the world on Christmas Eve. But where better to practice than one of the world’s largest natural chimneys? Santa will be back in the park this year for his Christmas trial run rappelling down Chimney Rock. Attendees can watch Santa rappel, pose for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, hike with an elf, make holiday crafts, listen to live music, meet some of our live animal ambassadors, and more.

Yule Tide Pride
Dec 13 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
AB Tech Mission Conference Center

So excited for Asheville Phoenix Fire Nonprofit’s 1st Annual – YULE TIDE PRIDE – Holiday Market Convention! We are bringing Pride into the festive season! Come get your holiday gifts, enjoy some local live music, coffee shop treats, connect with resources, take a holiday photo, sink in with community and more!

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

The 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk created by Asheville Plays
Dec 13 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
The Adventure Center of Asheville

Celebrate the magic of the season at the 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk—an enchanting outdoor story experience where live theater meets a whimsical walk through the woods! Created by Asheville Plays and hosted by the Adventure Center of Asheville, this immersive journey guides guests through the Kingdom of Winterland, where each page of the story comes to life with delightful characters and heartwarming surprises. This family-friendly event has been created with everyone in minde, no matter your age or what you may celebrate during the winter holiday season. Winter Wonder Walk includes the outdoor storywalk, a heated holiday tent featuring a local vendor market, a kids’ play area, and several tasty concession and beverage options. Guests ages 4+ can also enjoy the Treetops Adventure Park Glow Trail, aglow with thousands of twinkling lights. Every ticket purchased helps spread joy even further—each one supports MANNA FoodBank and their mission to feed our community.Kids 12 and younger can earn a free general admission ticket by participating in our “S’Mitten With Books” reading program! Bundle up and bring the whole family—it’s the perfect way to make magical memories and give back this holiday season!
2025 Dates: November 29 & 30 and December 6, 7, 13, 14
Festivities begin at 6 PM | Winter Wonder Walk opens at 6:30 PM
Tickets & FAQs at www.winterwonderwalk.com

Sunday, December 14, 2025
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical
Dec 14 all-day
Asheville Community Theater

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical

December 5 – 21, 2025

Thursdays, Fridays, & Select Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM

December 5 – 21, 2025
Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Based on the animated television special – Adapted by Robert Penola, Music & Lyrics by Johnny Marks
Sponsored by: Mast General Store

The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage! Join Rudolph, Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius, and all your favorite characters as they come to life in this heartwarming holiday musical. Featuring iconic songs like “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year,” this show celebrates the 61st anniversary of the cherished Christmas special. Perfect for the whole family!

Run Time: 90 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.
Accessibility: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating and Listening Devices are available for all Mainstage performances.
Content Awareness: This show is suitable for all audiences.

Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 14 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

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

The 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk created by Asheville Plays
Dec 14 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
The Adventure Center of Asheville

Celebrate the magic of the season at the 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk—an enchanting outdoor story experience where live theater meets a whimsical walk through the woods! Created by Asheville Plays and hosted by the Adventure Center of Asheville, this immersive journey guides guests through the Kingdom of Winterland, where each page of the story comes to life with delightful characters and heartwarming surprises. This family-friendly event has been created with everyone in minde, no matter your age or what you may celebrate during the winter holiday season. Winter Wonder Walk includes the outdoor storywalk, a heated holiday tent featuring a local vendor market, a kids’ play area, and several tasty concession and beverage options. Guests ages 4+ can also enjoy the Treetops Adventure Park Glow Trail, aglow with thousands of twinkling lights. Every ticket purchased helps spread joy even further—each one supports MANNA FoodBank and their mission to feed our community.Kids 12 and younger can earn a free general admission ticket by participating in our “S’Mitten With Books” reading program! Bundle up and bring the whole family—it’s the perfect way to make magical memories and give back this holiday season!
2025 Dates: November 29 & 30 and December 6, 7, 13, 14
Festivities begin at 6 PM | Winter Wonder Walk opens at 6:30 PM
Tickets & FAQs at www.winterwonderwalk.com

The 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk created by Asheville Plays
Dec 14 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
The Adventure Center of Asheville

Celebrate the magic of the season at the 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk—an enchanting outdoor story experience where live theater meets a whimsical walk through the woods! Created by Asheville Plays and hosted by the Adventure Center of Asheville, this immersive journey guides guests through the Kingdom of Winterland, where each page of the story comes to life with delightful characters and heartwarming surprises. This family-friendly event has been created with everyone in minde, no matter your age or what you may celebrate during the winter holiday season. Winter Wonder Walk includes the outdoor storywalk, a heated holiday tent featuring a local vendor market, a kids’ play area, and several tasty concession and beverage options. Guests ages 4+ can also enjoy the Treetops Adventure Park Glow Trail, aglow with thousands of twinkling lights. Every ticket purchased helps spread joy even further—each one supports MANNA FoodBank and their mission to feed our community.Kids 12 and younger can earn a free general admission ticket by participating in our “S’Mitten With Books” reading program! Bundle up and bring the whole family—it’s the perfect way to make magical memories and give back this holiday season!
2025 Dates: November 29 & 30 and December 6, 7, 13, 14
Festivities begin at 6 PM | Winter Wonder Walk opens at 6:30 PM
Tickets & FAQs at www.winterwonderwalk.com

Monday, December 15, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 15 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 16 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 17 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

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
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.

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical
Dec 18 all-day
Asheville Community Theater

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical

December 5 – 21, 2025

Thursdays, Fridays, & Select Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM

December 5 – 21, 2025
Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Based on the animated television special – Adapted by Robert Penola, Music & Lyrics by Johnny Marks
Sponsored by: Mast General Store

The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage! Join Rudolph, Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius, and all your favorite characters as they come to life in this heartwarming holiday musical. Featuring iconic songs like “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year,” this show celebrates the 61st anniversary of the cherished Christmas special. Perfect for the whole family!

Run Time: 90 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.
Accessibility: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating and Listening Devices are available for all Mainstage performances.
Content Awareness: This show is suitable for all audiences.

Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures
Dec 18 2025 – Jan 4 2026 all-day
Biltmore Estate

Biltmore’s next exhibition is an unforgettable exploration of the culture of ancient Egypt, the time of Tutankhamun, the search for and thrilling discovery of his tomb, and the treasures found within.

The event hailed as the world’s most complete Tutankhamun exhibition becomes all the more fascinating in its Biltmore presentation—this is the only experience that reveals the historical connections between the monumental discovery and the Vanderbilt-Cecil family.

This once-in-a-lifetime exhibition premieres March 21 in Amherst at Deerpark®. Reserve your admission tickets and special admission-inclusive overnight packages today.

Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 18 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.