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.

Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Asheville Tourists vs. Brooklyn
May 7 @ 11:00 am
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Brooklyn. Game starts at 11:05am.

Thursday, May 8, 2025
Asheville Tourists vs Brooklyn
May 8 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Brooklyn. Game starts at 6:35pm.

Friday, May 9, 2025
Asheville Tourists vs Brooklyn
May 9 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Brooklyn. Game starts at 6:35pm.

Saturday, May 10, 2025
Jump Off Rock Half Marathon & 10K
May 10 @ 7:30 am – 11:00 am
Jump Off Rock

Discover the beauty of the 5th annual Jump off Rock Half Marathon & 10k presented by Hunter Subaru and UNC Health Pardee, an endurance running event unlike any other! Experience the thrill of one of the most scenic and fastest half marathon races in the south, running “downhill to downtown.” The Half has garnered a reputation as the most breathtaking and picturesque downhill half marathon in the Southeast, and it’s no wonder why!

Starting at Jump off Rock, a national landmark and the highest peak of the Town of Laurel Park, endurance runners will be captivated by the stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the colorful blooms and blossoms of spring. Then, continue on the gently downhill and picturesque 13.1 mile route that leads straight to the heart of downtown Hendersonville at Main Street.

The 10k race is fast and fun, commencing at the base of the Town of Laurel Park at the Hendersonville Family YMCA. Runners can join in with the half marathoners along the route and enjoy the beauty of the Town of Hendersonville that surrounds them. The 10k route is moderately flat and has a couple of gentle rollers throughout.

Finish line festivities await all participants at the same location in Historic Downtown Hendersonville on Main Street, creating a vibrant atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie!

Don’t miss your chance to experience the inspiring beauty of the Jump off Rock Half Marathon & 10k, an event that promises to inspire and captivate you like no other!

Both races are USATF Sanctioned AND Certified!

Asheville Tourists vs Brooklyn
May 10 @ 6:00 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Brooklyn. Game starts at 6:05pm.

Sunday, May 11, 2025
Mother’s Day Brunch at Kanuga
May 11 @ 11:30 am – 2:00 pm
Kanuga

Celebrate Mother’s Day with this special brunch event! Join us for a delicious meal surrounded by beautiful scenery. Treat your mom to a day she won’t forget with a variety of dishes to choose from. Show your appreciation for all that she does with a lovely meal in a charming setting. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make her day extra special!

Asheville Tourists vs. Brooklyn
May 11 @ 1:00 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Brooklyn. Game starts at 1:05pm.

Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Slice Standup Comedy Contest
May 14 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Pulp Lounge

The Slice of Life Comedy Asheville Spring Standup Contest Series: ROUND 2

Thursday May 14, 7:30p-9:30p, doors at 6:30p

The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge
103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $17 (available at door or The Orange Peel website)

These shows sellout!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley from Netflix & Amazon Prime!
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!!
Free snacks while availability lasts! You may bring your own food in (no drinks)!
How it Works:
Comics on the show will do 3-1/2 minutes of comedy. Audience votes for their favorites of the night thru ballot voting. Comics are separated in 3 groups of 7 contestants. This show’s 3 top comics from each category will be paid and be brought back with other show winners to compete in our pageant finale, date TBA.

Comics on the show:
Aiden Lamb, Andy Frampton,
Art Sturtevant, Austin Elfers,
Becca Steinhoff, Ben Jennings,
Clay Jones, Cloud Hudson,
Evelyn Pekarek,
Foster, Issac Truman, James Burks,
Jason Reel, Jordan Ballard, Julia Macias,
Justin Blackburn, Makenzie Manent,
Roman Fraden, Sam Arrowood, Sully

Saturday, May 17, 2025
Tackle The Tar, a 5K obstacle course
May 17 @ 8:45 am
Rocky Mount Sports Complex

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Rotary Club of Rocky Mount is hosting the annual TACKLE THE TAR 5K Obstacle Course Race & Family Fun Day at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex.  Our first heat begins with our Kid’s 1-mile fun run at 8:45 A.M. and festivities will continue until noon.

All proceeds from this event go directly to the funding of college scholarships for deserving students in the Rocky Mount Area.  Since 2016, thanks to you, we have raised and awarded over $600,000 in scholarships to youth in our community. Thank you for making such a difference in the lives of so many!

Tackle the Tar is a 5K Obstacle Course Race that begins at the Rocky Mount Sports complex and courses through historic Battle Park and the E.B. Grain Company property.  It comes complete with a MUD PIT and 15+ OBSTACLES to overcome.  All racers will receive: T-shirt, medal, one free beer (if over 21), and goodie bag

Saluda Arts Festival
May 17 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Historic Downtown Saluda

The Saluda Downtown Foundation is proud to celebrate Saluda’s heritage and art culture at the 20th anniversary of the Saluda Arts Festival. Stretching along historic and charming Main Street, every art media is represented in this popular annual event including paintings, pottery, metal work, woodwork, jewelry, sculptures, fiber, and more. Live music, Children’s Tent, Family Fun. Event is held on Historic Main Street, Saluda, NC 28773, May 17, 2025, 10am to 4pm.

Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Asheville Tourists vs. Greensboro
May 20 @ 6:00 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Greensboro. Game starts at 6:05pm..

Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Asheville Tourists vs. Greensboro
May 21 @ 11:00 am
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Greensboro. Game starts at 11:05am.

Thursday, May 22, 2025
Asheville Tourists vs. Greensboro
May 22 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Greensboro. Game starts at 6:35pm.

ABSFest: Thursday Live Music Speakeasy Opening Party
May 22 @ 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
The Crow & Quill

The 16th ABSFest: Asheville Burlesque & Sideshow Festival opens at the Crow & Quill, with our ABSFest Speakeasy. Local live music sweethearts Drayton & the Dreamboats play jazz all night with bellydancers, sword- swallowing and more. Hosted by international Jester, Paolo Garbanzo. Tickets at the Door.

Friday, May 23, 2025
Asheville Tourists vs. Greensboro
May 23 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Greensboro. Game starts at 6:35pm.

ABSFest: Friday FanDom Nerdlesque Show
May 23 @ 8:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

The 16th ABSFest: Asheville Burlesque & Sideshow Festival at the Grey Eagle sees the return of our FanDom Nerdlesque Show, hosted by Atlanta’s Lola LeSoleil. Your favorite fandoms brought to the stage! From sexy Star Wars to sassy Super Mario, this sexy, silly and surprising show has something for everybody. VIPs enjoy early seating, a pre-show, and themed goody bags.

Saturday, May 24, 2025
ABSFest Saturday Workshops: Burlesque, Bellydance, Drag & Resilience for Artists
May 24 @ 12:00 pm – 3:30 pm
The Orange Peel

FOUR Workshops held at the Orange Peel! $40 in advance, $50 day of unless FREE.
12:30-2pm
Burlesque, with Jo’Rie Tigerlily.
Drag, with Qing Blaze.
2-3:30
Bellydance, with Naimah.
Resilience and Ethics for Artists in Uncertain Times, with Nadira & Mavi, a free facilitated discussion for the variety arts community. Email us at [email protected] to inquire about the Resilience class. Otherwise, visit absfest.com to register and get MORE INFORMATION about workshop offerings and the instructors.

Blue Ridge Roller Derby Doubleheader
May 24 @ 3:00 pm
Smoky Mountain Event Center

Catch an afternoon FULL of high-level ROLLER DERBY!

This family-friendly derby-filled afternoon will include TWO Travel Season bouts. First, the Y’All Stars will face River City Riot from Richmond, Virginia in an A-level sanctioned game. Then, the Retrogrades will take on the River City River Rats in a B-level sanctioned game. Both games’ final scores will impact BRRD and River City’s INTERNATIONAL WFTDA rankings.
Tickets available online or at the door.

2:00 Doors Open
3:00 BRRD Y’AllStars vs. River City Riot
5:00 BRRD Retrogrades vs. River City River Rats

Tickets are $10 for ages 12 and up. Kids 11 and under are FREE. All ages are welcome.

Delish Food Truck and Budgies Bake Shop will provide a great menu of refreshments and snacks, including plant-based options.

BRRD is a non-profit organization that relies on the support of our community to provide action-packed, family-friendly fun on four wheels.

Asheville Tourists vs. Greensboro
May 24 @ 6:00 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Greensboro. Game starts at 6:05pm..

ABSFest Saturday Spectacular Burlesque & Sideshow Fest
May 24 @ 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
The Orange Peel

The 16th annual ABSFest: Asheville Burlesque & Sideshow Festival at The Orange Peel offers up the The Saturday Spectacular. Don’t Miss This Show; the most glamorous showgirls, astonishing aerials, and delicious vendors, as well as vibrant acts of rebellion, comedy and dexterity. Hosted by festival founder Madame Onça! VIPs enjoy early expedited seating, shopping and a live music pre-show.

Sunday, May 25, 2025
ABSFest Sunday Brunch: Church of Decadence – with Burlesque!
May 25 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

The 16th annual ABSFest: Asheville Burlesque & Sideshow Festival Sunday at The Grey Eagle brings the brunch show – the Church of Decadence, hosted by pin-up priestess Phoebe Nyx. Come feel the holy spirit of burlesque moving through you. Dress for church – be that church hats, mumus, or pjs. Tickets at www.thegreyeagle.com 12-2pm

Asheville Tourists vs. Greensboro
May 25 @ 1:00 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Greensboro. Game starts at 1:05pm.

Monday, May 26, 2025
Run for Life Memorial Day 5K and Fun Run
May 26 @ 8:30 am
Bill Moore Community Park (AKA: Fletcher Park)

This annual run/walk timed event raises funds to support Open Arms Pregnancy Center. Open Arms supports women facing unplanned pregnancies by providing free, confidential ultrasounds and maternity supplies. Mothers receive monthly diapers, clothing and other items once their babies are born up to the child’s 18th month.
The 5k and Fun Run will be held at Bill Moore Community Park, 85 Howard Gap Road in Fletcher, NC at 8:30AM.
Runners should register now (by May 9) at https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Fletcher/Run4for5k for early bird pricing and to be guaranteed a T-shirt.
Businesses/Individuals interested in being a race sponsor can contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone at 828.676.4510.

Thursday, May 29, 2025
Community Concert ft. the Steep Canyon Rangers
May 29 @ 6:00 pm
Pack Square Park

The highly anticipated Community Concert is returning to Pack Square Park in Downtown Asheville on Thursday, May 29, 2025, and this year’s lineup promises to deliver another unforgettable evening of live music, local food, and community spirit. The event will feature Steep Canyon Rangers, one of the most renowned names in bluegrass and Americana music, along with the incredible opening act, Sam Burchfield and the Scoundrels. The Community Concert is presented by Oskar Blues Brewery, Dale’s, and Fred Anderson Subaru.

This celebration of community is FREE to attend, with General Admission available to all. For those seeking an enhanced experience, Preferred Access Tickets powered by Skyla Credit Union are on sale now, providing attendees with a premium concert experience in the heart of Asheville’s iconic Downtown.

In addition to the music, the Community Concert will also feature a variety of local food vendors, a marketplace with unique handmade goods, and a gear swap presented by Second Gear, giving attendees the chance to exchange gently used outdoor gear. The event is designed to bring together people of all ages for an evening of celebration, while supporting local businesses and artists.

Time: 6pm – 10pm

Location: Pack Square Park, Downtown Asheville, NC

Admission: General Admission is FREE; Preferred Access Tickets available for purchase.

Saturday, May 31, 2025
30th Annual Twin Rivers Media Festival
May 31 all-day
Flood Gallery Fine Art Center

Award-winning, independent films from around the world in documentary, drama, anti-war, experimental and animation categories. Kickoff begins Friday with a full-length feature film and continues Saturday with back-to-back films throughout the day. This is truly an international film fest with 18 films from countries like France, Brazil, Iran, China, Spain, Malaysia, and the US, many of which are premieres!

Tentative Film Screening Schedule:
FRI, MAY 30
6:30 PM: Doors Open
7 PM: Feature Film & Discussions

SAT, MAY 31
10:30 AM: Doors Open
11-11:30 AM: Anti-War and Anti War Tax Films
11:30-12:30 PM: Animation
1-3 PM: Short Dramas
3-5 PM Documentaries + Discussions

Pre-buy tickets at https://filmfreeway.com/trmf/tickets or pay at the door. $10 Fri Feature Film; $15 Sat films all day (come in any time); $25 both days. Doors open half hour before start. Complimentary food & drink available.

At Flood Gallery Fine Art Center, River Ridge Business Center, Suite 1200, 802 Fairview Rd, Asheville 28803 (next to Asheville Dance Theater). For more information, call 828-273-3332.

Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Asheville Tourists vs. Winston-Salem
Jun 3 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Winston-Salem. Game starts at 6:35pm.

Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Asheville Tourists vs. Winston-Salem
Jun 4 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Winston-Salem. Game starts at 6:35pm.

Thursday, June 5, 2025
Asheville Tourist vs. Greenville Drive
Jun 5 @ 6:00 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Greenville. Game starts at 6:05pm.

Asheville Tourists vs. Winston-Salem
Jun 5 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

Head on out to the ballgame at McCormick Field. Asheville is taking on Winston-Salem. Game starts at 6:35pm.

Friday, June 6, 2025
Big Time Wrestling
Jun 6 @ 8:00 am
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium
 Get ready Spartanburg, SC! Big Time Wrestling returns with “The Best There Ever Was, The Best There Is and The Best There Ever Will Be” Bret The Hitman Hart on Friday, June 6 at The Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium. Plus a 6-Man Bunkhouse Match in a Steel Cage featuring “The Rock’n’Roll Express” team of Ricky Morton, Robert Gibson and Kerry Morton  vs. “The Anderson Attack” CW Anderson, Brock Anderson and George South accompanied by The Enforcer Arn Anderson. In a Special Attraction King of the Bros Matt Riddle meets the 7 foot Big Broski Ben Bishop. In the second Steel Cage Match of the evening Vix Crow fka Alicia Fox challenges 
World Intergender Champion James Ellsworth, and much more.