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, September 23, 2024
Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences
Sep 23 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Big Ivy Community Center

CORE Programming

 

Buncombe County Parks & Recreation is proud to offer Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences (CORE) programming, which consists of free and engaging activities geared towards youth ages 5-15. CORE travels to parks and community centers around Buncombe County. The program takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences
Sep 23 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Sandy Mush Community Center

 

CORE Programming

Buncombe County Parks & Recreation is proud to offer Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences (CORE) programming, which consists of free and engaging activities geared towards youth ages 5-15. CORE travels to parks and community centers around Buncombe County. The program takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences
Sep 24 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Bent Creek Community Park

CORE Programming

Buncombe County Parks & Recreation is proud to offer Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences (CORE) programming, which consists of free and engaging activities geared towards youth ages 5-15. CORE travels to parks and community centers around Buncombe County. The program takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thursday, September 26, 2024
City Dance
Sep 26 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Saturday, September 28, 2024
Birding
Sep 28 @ 8:30 am
Lake Julian Park

Birding: For the birdwatchers, there will be monthly bird excursions at Lake Julian Park. The birding events will occur at 8:30 a.m. on the last Saturday of every month from March through October. These events allow participants to enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of various avian species in Buncombe county. Fun fact: Lake Julian Park is home to a successfully paired eagle couple that has raised at least 6 eaglets over the past 3 years! Admission is free. Pre-registration is required. 

TreeTops 8.5 Mile Trail Race
Sep 28 @ 9:00 am
DuPont State Forest - Guion Farm

Join us Saturday, September 28, 2024 for the 2nd Annual TreeTops Trail Race in DuPont State Recreational Forest near Brevard, North Carolina!

This race offers a unique opportunity to explore the spectacular 10,000 acres of rolling hills and towering trees that make up this beautiful forest. Take on the 8.5 mile challenging trail race – but beware! With nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain it’s no walk in the park!

Celebrate your journey through nature with a super unique succulent plant for all participants. Join us at the Dupont Forest Festival afterwards from 10am – 3pm to visit with vendors, hike, yoga, bike, hunt waterfalls and learn outdoor recreation tips to last you a lifetime. Admission to the festival is FREE!

The TreeTops Trail Race is not just any ordinary event – it’s an exclusive experience only available within Dupont State Forest! So don’t miss out on this tree-mendous event and join us for an unforgettable journey through DuPont State Forest – roots down, branches up!

2024 DuPont Forest Festival
Sep 28 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Dupont State Forest

On National Public Lands Day, Saturday September 28, 2024, Friends of DuPont Forest will host the 6th annual DuPont Forest Festival, an event celebrating the adventure and beauty of DuPont State Recreational Forest. 

The DuPont Forest Festival is a free, family friendly event open to the public. It is a celebration of  the Forest and the diverse user groups who enjoy it.

We’ll have a mix of drop-in activities, demonstrations, group tours, and hikes, all perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Our number one goal for the Forest Festival is to teach people to love the Forest. Along with having fun, the activities will weave in education about  reducing impacts to the Forest, waterfall safety, trails that serve multiple types of recreationalists  and Forest conservation.

Each event will be led by an expert volunteer and representative from our partner organizations.”

  • Forest Festival activities include: 
  • Family nature walks
  • Kids and community yoga
  • Kids bike clinic and ride
  • Group rides
  • Orienteering event
  • Face painting
  • Smokey Bear
  • History tours
  • Fly fishing demonstration 

AND MORE!

Friday, October 11, 2024
WWE Smackdown
Oct 11 @ 7:45 pm
Bon Secours Wellness Arena

See WWE Smackdown on October 11th in Greenville, SC! See your favorite Smackdown Superstars in action Live including:
“The American Nightmare” CODY RHODES, RANDY ORTON, LA KNIGHT, BAYLEY, BIANCA BELAIR, JADE CARGILL, SOLO SIKOA & BLOODLINE, NIA JAX, AND MANY MORE!

Sunday, October 13, 2024
Black Bear Half Marathon & 8k
Oct 13 @ 8:00 am
Jackson Park

Join us on Sunday, October 13th, 2024, for the 5th Annual Black Bear Half Marathon and 8k presented by Hunter Subaru!

The Black Bear Half Marathon & 8k is an exhilarating fall event that beckons both seasoned athletes and recreational runners alike. Nestled within the charm and beauty of Hendersonville, North Carolina, this race offers participants a unique opportunity to challenge their limits while immersing themselves in the splendor of the autumn season. Whether conquering the half marathon’s 13.1-mile stretch or embracing the spirited atmosphere of the 8k, participants love supportive community vibe, scenic course, and post-race festivities.

Both courses are USATF Sanctioned and Certified.

Tuesday, October 15, 2024
Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences
Oct 15 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Bent Creek Community Park

CORE Programming

Buncombe County Parks & Recreation is proud to offer Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences (CORE) programming, which consists of free and engaging activities geared towards youth ages 5-15. CORE travels to parks and community centers around Buncombe County. The program takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, October 19, 2024
Sandburg Home Tour Free Days
Oct 19 all-day
Carl Sandburg Home Historic Site
  • On several days throughout the year, tours of the Sandburg Home are free! Advance reservations are not available for tour free days. Tickets will be available first come, first serve on the day of, from the Visitor Center/Park Store in the Sandburg Home.
  • Saturday, March 23, 2024 (First Saturday of local school spring break)
  • Saturday, June 15, 2024 (Sandburgs’ wedding anniversary)
  • Saturday and Sunday, October 19 and 20, 2024 Weekend closest to Carl Sandburg Home NHS October 17, 1968, Anniversary)
Sunday, October 20, 2024
Sandburg Home Tour Free Days
Oct 20 all-day
Carl Sandburg Home Historic Site
  • On several days throughout the year, tours of the Sandburg Home are free! Advance reservations are not available for tour free days. Tickets will be available first come, first serve on the day of, from the Visitor Center/Park Store in the Sandburg Home.
  • Saturday, March 23, 2024 (First Saturday of local school spring break)
  • Saturday, June 15, 2024 (Sandburgs’ wedding anniversary)
  • Saturday and Sunday, October 19 and 20, 2024 Weekend closest to Carl Sandburg Home NHS October 17, 1968, Anniversary)
Monday, October 21, 2024
Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences
Oct 21 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Sandy Mush Community Center

 

CORE Programming

Buncombe County Parks & Recreation is proud to offer Community Outreach and Recreational Experiences (CORE) programming, which consists of free and engaging activities geared towards youth ages 5-15. CORE travels to parks and community centers around Buncombe County. The program takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thursday, October 24, 2024
City Dance
Oct 24 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Saturday, October 26, 2024
Birding
Oct 26 @ 8:30 am
Lake Julian Park

Birding: For the birdwatchers, there will be monthly bird excursions at Lake Julian Park. The birding events will occur at 8:30 a.m. on the last Saturday of every month from March through October. These events allow participants to enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of various avian species in Buncombe county. Fun fact: Lake Julian Park is home to a successfully paired eagle couple that has raised at least 6 eaglets over the past 3 years! Admission is free. Pre-registration is required. 

Trick or Trail 5k & Spooky Sprint 1 Mile
Oct 26 @ 10:00 am
Nelon's Feed

The 10th Annual Trick or Trail 5k & Spooky Sprint 1 Mile presented by Hunter Subaru returns to the heart of Hendersonville for 2024!

Get ready to have some fun at the 10th Annual Trick or Trail 5k & Spooky Sprint 1 Mile, presented by Hunter Subaru! This Halloween-themed race will bring runners back to the heart of Hendersonville, NC, where they’ll start and finish in the Historic 7th Avenue District.

But that’s not all! The vibrant Fall Festival will be taking place at the Farmers’ Market, so you can expect a spooktacular atmosphere with costumes, decorations, and lots of great candy, snacks, and food!

This family favorite event promises a festive fusion of fitness and fall fun that you won’t want to miss. And, after the race, you can stroll over to the bustling Fall Festival for even more food, drinks, and vendors at the Farmers’ Market. So, come prepared to spook, sprint, and snack your way through this ghoulishly good time! (Don’t forget your cash for all the goodies!)

Sunday, October 27, 2024
Guest Appreciation Festival
Oct 27 @ 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Nantahala Outdoor Center

Come and join us at GAF 2024 for an exciting weekend full of fun and adventure! The event includes exciting races, kids’ activities, used boat sales starting online, and our Used Gear Marketplace and Artisan market.

You can also enjoy live music, delicious food, drinks, and riverside games in a family-friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the exclusive bargains available on boats, gear, and artisan crafts.

Friday, November 15, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 15 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, November 16, 2024
3rd Annual Blackhawk Bolt 5k & 1 mi Fun Run
Nov 16 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
North Buncombe High School

Lace up your running shoes and join us at 10:00am for our 3rd annual Blackhawk Bolt 5K & Fun Run on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Run this unique road-to-trail course to benefit North Buncombe High School PTSO and Blackhawks Marching Band

Winter Lights
Nov 16 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 17, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 17 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Monday, November 18, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 18 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 19 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 20 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 21, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 21 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Friday, November 22, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 22 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, November 23, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 23 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 24, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 24 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Monday, November 25, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 25 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 26 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.