Calendar of Events
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.
What do you do when the dream comes true? You take it on the road and share it with the world! Venardos Circus is thrilled to announce the launch of a SECOND Touring Company and an All-New Production “FAR BEYOND.” The show will play at Tanger Outlets in Asheville, October 2 – 19, 2025. Tickets are on sale now!
The show will feature Singing Ringmaster Julia Swann, the Reyes Brothers’ Juggling Perch Pole, the Mind-Bending Contortion of Nordic Beauty Sno Bunta, Slapstick Sensation Sam Ferlo, Duo Dadiva’s Astonishing Aerial Acrobatics, the Ridiculous Rob Lok, Priscilla & Jonathan’s Diabolical Daggers, and the Wicked Wheel of Wonder! All this and more are woven together with Venardos’ unique theatrical musical production style. This production explores what happens when a dream comes true, what we discover about ourselves, and ultimately the responsibility we all share to keep reaching “FAR BEYOND.”
“This has been a dream in the making for a very long time” said Producer, Kevin Venardos. “Everyone knows bringing a dream to fruition is no simple task and to create an entirely different touring company that mirrors the same talent, values, and level of professionalism we bring to our audiences is truly a labor of love. We cannot wait to visit more cities and introduce The Little Circus that Could to even more people.”
The magical experience that is the signature of Venardos Circus from the moment you enter the tent remains but with new acts, music, and a different dream to share. The show schedule will be as follows:
• Thursday, October 2 – 7 p.m. OPENING NIGHT
• Friday, October 3 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 4 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 5 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 8 – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, October 9 – 7 p.m.
• Friday, October 10 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 11 – 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 12 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 15 – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, October 16 – 7 p.m.
• Friday, October 17 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 18 – 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 19 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
Tickets: Kid’s (under 12) tickets start at $19 and $31.33 for adults. Prices include taxes and fees. One baby in arms is admitted free with each paying adult. (Two years old or younger per paying adult seated on a lap). Premier Gallery and VIP Experience Reserved seating is available. In the new, larger tent, fans will still enjoy the intimate feel and proximity to the performers but with enhanced views of aerial acts due to the taller design of the tent. The VIP Experience will offer assigned seating closest to the stage with guests escorted to their positions and other special experiences. Premier Gallery seating will occupy a multi-tier riser to provide greater visibility.
The circus performers are also the crew on this traveling tour, much like the original circus tradition. There are no animals in Venardos Circus.
Parking: Doors open an hour prior to showtime. Concessions are available when doors open. Classic circus treats like fresh popcorn, cotton candy, house-made all-natural pink lemonade, packaged candy, and more are available for presale online or in the tent. The complete show schedule is available at www.VenardosCircus.com.
What to expect on site:
• The parking area is flat so there is easy handicap access between the lot and the tent.
• Concessions are available but we encourage guests to order online when purchasing tickets. Contactless payment options available.
• The main event lasts approximately 90 minutes, with a brief intermission.
About Venardos Circus:
The Venardos Circus, a unique Broadway-Style Circus performance, has been touring the U.S. since its debut at the L.A. County Fair in 2014. It is reinventing the American Circus tradition for a new generation with Broadway-style flair, bringing joy to people across the U.S. Theatre lovers and nostalgic circus fans alike will appreciate the intimate experience and sentimental way the show pays homage to circus traditions through the lens of high-quality entertainment for a modern family audience.
For more information, please visit www.venardoscircus.com
Dark City LIT! A Literary Festival at the Black Mountain Public Library
105 N. Dougherty St. Black Mountain NC 28711
Saturday, November 8
Join us for the inaugural Dark City LIT! Literary Festival!
Write Local, Read Local Author Fair is back for its fourth year! 20 local authors will be handselling books from 9-11 a.m. and reading from their works from Noon to 1 p.m.
Free Workshops Follow:
1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
The Fun, Fascinating, and Fabulous World of Research with Dr. Susan Eischeid
In this engaging workshop, you’ll learn practical strategies for harnessing research—whether historical, personal, or primary sources—to elevate your fiction and non-fiction writing with vivid detail and universal resonance.
3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Publishing as Collective Practice with Andrew Mack of Loblolly Press
Discover how vibrant communities and collaborative efforts—from writers’ groups to small presses—are reviving literature today and leave with your own personalized “community map” to sustain your creative journey.
Followed by An Evening with Tessa Fontaine!
5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
Author of The Electric Woman: A Memoir in Death-Defying Acts and The Red Grove, longlisted for the Center for Fiction’s First Novel Prize. Tessa will be reading from her work and signing copies of her books.
Wed-Sun September 24th – October 12th
Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays: 7:30pm
Fridays & Sundays: 2:00pm
The first summer blockbuster movie, Jaws, is being filmed—but no one working on the film would know it. Dive deep into the tumultuous, murky waters of the making of a major motion picture with testy, feuding costars, unpredictable weather, and a shark prop whose constant breakdowns are looking like an omen for the future of the movie. In this comedy co-written by Ian Shaw and Joseph Nixon, the short tempers of Jaws stars Robert Shaw (father of co-writer Ian), Richard Dreyfuss, and Roy Scheider take center stage as they bond, argue, drink, gamble, and pray for an end to the shoot, not knowing it will change their lives forever.
Regular Adult Tickets: $24-$48 (depending on chosen seat)
Student Tickets: $10 (18 and under/ college and graduate students with student ID)
Grease
September 19 – October 12, 2025
Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Sponsored by: HomeTrust Bank
Bursting with high-octane fun and unforgettable songs like “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’,” and “You’re the One That I Want,” Grease is the ultimate rock-and-roll celebration. Step back into the 1950s as Rydell High’s senior class navigates the ups and downs of love, identity, and teenage rebellion. One of the most popular musicals of all time, Grease is a rollicking good time.
Supported by a live five-piece band!
What do you do when the dream comes true? You take it on the road and share it with the world! Venardos Circus is thrilled to announce the launch of a SECOND Touring Company and an All-New Production “FAR BEYOND.” The show will play at Tanger Outlets in Asheville, October 2 – 19, 2025. Tickets are on sale now!
The show will feature Singing Ringmaster Julia Swann, the Reyes Brothers’ Juggling Perch Pole, the Mind-Bending Contortion of Nordic Beauty Sno Bunta, Slapstick Sensation Sam Ferlo, Duo Dadiva’s Astonishing Aerial Acrobatics, the Ridiculous Rob Lok, Priscilla & Jonathan’s Diabolical Daggers, and the Wicked Wheel of Wonder! All this and more are woven together with Venardos’ unique theatrical musical production style. This production explores what happens when a dream comes true, what we discover about ourselves, and ultimately the responsibility we all share to keep reaching “FAR BEYOND.”
“This has been a dream in the making for a very long time” said Producer, Kevin Venardos. “Everyone knows bringing a dream to fruition is no simple task and to create an entirely different touring company that mirrors the same talent, values, and level of professionalism we bring to our audiences is truly a labor of love. We cannot wait to visit more cities and introduce The Little Circus that Could to even more people.”
The magical experience that is the signature of Venardos Circus from the moment you enter the tent remains but with new acts, music, and a different dream to share. The show schedule will be as follows:
• Thursday, October 2 – 7 p.m. OPENING NIGHT
• Friday, October 3 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 4 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 5 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 8 – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, October 9 – 7 p.m.
• Friday, October 10 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 11 – 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 12 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 15 – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, October 16 – 7 p.m.
• Friday, October 17 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 18 – 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 19 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
Tickets: Kid’s (under 12) tickets start at $19 and $31.33 for adults. Prices include taxes and fees. One baby in arms is admitted free with each paying adult. (Two years old or younger per paying adult seated on a lap). Premier Gallery and VIP Experience Reserved seating is available. In the new, larger tent, fans will still enjoy the intimate feel and proximity to the performers but with enhanced views of aerial acts due to the taller design of the tent. The VIP Experience will offer assigned seating closest to the stage with guests escorted to their positions and other special experiences. Premier Gallery seating will occupy a multi-tier riser to provide greater visibility.
The circus performers are also the crew on this traveling tour, much like the original circus tradition. There are no animals in Venardos Circus.
Parking: Doors open an hour prior to showtime. Concessions are available when doors open. Classic circus treats like fresh popcorn, cotton candy, house-made all-natural pink lemonade, packaged candy, and more are available for presale online or in the tent. The complete show schedule is available at www.VenardosCircus.com.
What to expect on site:
• The parking area is flat so there is easy handicap access between the lot and the tent.
• Concessions are available but we encourage guests to order online when purchasing tickets. Contactless payment options available.
• The main event lasts approximately 90 minutes, with a brief intermission.
About Venardos Circus:
The Venardos Circus, a unique Broadway-Style Circus performance, has been touring the U.S. since its debut at the L.A. County Fair in 2014. It is reinventing the American Circus tradition for a new generation with Broadway-style flair, bringing joy to people across the U.S. Theatre lovers and nostalgic circus fans alike will appreciate the intimate experience and sentimental way the show pays homage to circus traditions through the lens of high-quality entertainment for a modern family audience.
For more information, please visit www.venardoscircus.com
192 Haywood Street
Asheville, NC 28801
Making connections is key to meeting business goals and building brand awareness. Mega Networking lets you do just that in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. You’ll meet business contacts from a variety of industries, gain exposure for your company and learn about other local businesses.
Held just twice a year, Mega Networking’s structured, “round robin” approach allows you to make valuable connections in a small group. Each person has a chance to share about their business, and a table leader moderates to put you at ease and keep the group on track. As you rotate from table to table, you’ll interact with most of the attendees, allowing you to make numerous connections in just one morning.
You’ll leave with great leads, great ideas and positive energy to keep your business moving forward.
Helpful tips:
- * Practice your “elevator speech” ahead of time so you can share your most important information in one minute.
- * Bring a little something to help others remember you and your business (something visual yet simple, AND your business card).
- * Stay “portable” — you’ll be moving from table to table throughout the morning.
- * If you’re a newcomer to this event, arrive a little early so you can settle in comfortably at your first table and learn the flow of the event without being rushed.
- * Schedule time now on your calendar to follow up soon with those you meet.
Cost is $50 per Chamber member, $85 for other attendees.
Wed-Sun September 24th – October 12th
Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays: 7:30pm
Fridays & Sundays: 2:00pm
The first summer blockbuster movie, Jaws, is being filmed—but no one working on the film would know it. Dive deep into the tumultuous, murky waters of the making of a major motion picture with testy, feuding costars, unpredictable weather, and a shark prop whose constant breakdowns are looking like an omen for the future of the movie. In this comedy co-written by Ian Shaw and Joseph Nixon, the short tempers of Jaws stars Robert Shaw (father of co-writer Ian), Richard Dreyfuss, and Roy Scheider take center stage as they bond, argue, drink, gamble, and pray for an end to the shoot, not knowing it will change their lives forever.
Regular Adult Tickets: $24-$48 (depending on chosen seat)
Student Tickets: $10 (18 and under/ college and graduate students with student ID)
October 10 – 26
Grab your guitars and dust off your cowboy boots before heading out to the Playhouse Barn for Autumn at the Opry, Vol. 2. This popular country extravaganza is back with all new music and showcases everything from bluegrass to honky-tonk, tin pan alley to pop standards, and the blues to rock-n-roll. Join our world-class musicians and singers in this ode to The Grand Ole Opry. We guarantee a hand-clappin,’ foot-stompin’ good time.
Event Times: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Ticket Prices: $48 / $58 / $68
Child Pricing Available (17 & under)

Grease
September 19 – October 12, 2025
Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Sponsored by: HomeTrust Bank
Bursting with high-octane fun and unforgettable songs like “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’,” and “You’re the One That I Want,” Grease is the ultimate rock-and-roll celebration. Step back into the 1950s as Rydell High’s senior class navigates the ups and downs of love, identity, and teenage rebellion. One of the most popular musicals of all time, Grease is a rollicking good time.
Supported by a live five-piece band!
What do you do when the dream comes true? You take it on the road and share it with the world! Venardos Circus is thrilled to announce the launch of a SECOND Touring Company and an All-New Production “FAR BEYOND.” The show will play at Tanger Outlets in Asheville, October 2 – 19, 2025. Tickets are on sale now!
The show will feature Singing Ringmaster Julia Swann, the Reyes Brothers’ Juggling Perch Pole, the Mind-Bending Contortion of Nordic Beauty Sno Bunta, Slapstick Sensation Sam Ferlo, Duo Dadiva’s Astonishing Aerial Acrobatics, the Ridiculous Rob Lok, Priscilla & Jonathan’s Diabolical Daggers, and the Wicked Wheel of Wonder! All this and more are woven together with Venardos’ unique theatrical musical production style. This production explores what happens when a dream comes true, what we discover about ourselves, and ultimately the responsibility we all share to keep reaching “FAR BEYOND.”
“This has been a dream in the making for a very long time” said Producer, Kevin Venardos. “Everyone knows bringing a dream to fruition is no simple task and to create an entirely different touring company that mirrors the same talent, values, and level of professionalism we bring to our audiences is truly a labor of love. We cannot wait to visit more cities and introduce The Little Circus that Could to even more people.”
The magical experience that is the signature of Venardos Circus from the moment you enter the tent remains but with new acts, music, and a different dream to share. The show schedule will be as follows:
• Thursday, October 2 – 7 p.m. OPENING NIGHT
• Friday, October 3 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 4 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 5 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 8 – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, October 9 – 7 p.m.
• Friday, October 10 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 11 – 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 12 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 15 – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, October 16 – 7 p.m.
• Friday, October 17 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 18 – 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 19 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
Tickets: Kid’s (under 12) tickets start at $19 and $31.33 for adults. Prices include taxes and fees. One baby in arms is admitted free with each paying adult. (Two years old or younger per paying adult seated on a lap). Premier Gallery and VIP Experience Reserved seating is available. In the new, larger tent, fans will still enjoy the intimate feel and proximity to the performers but with enhanced views of aerial acts due to the taller design of the tent. The VIP Experience will offer assigned seating closest to the stage with guests escorted to their positions and other special experiences. Premier Gallery seating will occupy a multi-tier riser to provide greater visibility.
The circus performers are also the crew on this traveling tour, much like the original circus tradition. There are no animals in Venardos Circus.
Parking: Doors open an hour prior to showtime. Concessions are available when doors open. Classic circus treats like fresh popcorn, cotton candy, house-made all-natural pink lemonade, packaged candy, and more are available for presale online or in the tent. The complete show schedule is available at www.VenardosCircus.com.
What to expect on site:
• The parking area is flat so there is easy handicap access between the lot and the tent.
• Concessions are available but we encourage guests to order online when purchasing tickets. Contactless payment options available.
• The main event lasts approximately 90 minutes, with a brief intermission.
About Venardos Circus:
The Venardos Circus, a unique Broadway-Style Circus performance, has been touring the U.S. since its debut at the L.A. County Fair in 2014. It is reinventing the American Circus tradition for a new generation with Broadway-style flair, bringing joy to people across the U.S. Theatre lovers and nostalgic circus fans alike will appreciate the intimate experience and sentimental way the show pays homage to circus traditions through the lens of high-quality entertainment for a modern family audience.
For more information, please visit www.venardoscircus.com
Wortham Center Student Series Pilobolus
Fri, Oct 10 • 10 am
Grades 6–12
Show length: 60 minutes
Get ready for a high-energy journey through imagination and movement! Known for their athleticism, humor, and creativity, Pilobolus blends dance, storytelling, and visual surprises into a performance like no other. Students become part of the action with interactive engagement and enjoy laughter-filled moments that spark creativity and connection—leaving them amazed and inspired.
Reservations for individuals (9 people or less): $12 each
Reservations for groups (10 people or more): $11 each

Asheville Plays is eeeek!cited to announce the 13th annual Haunted Trail; Asheville’s only family friendly haunt! This event is ideal for Halloween lovers of all ages, 3-12 being the suggested age range. The Adventure Center of Asheville is the host of this one of a kind live outdoor theatrical experience where guests are promised an entirely immersive and interactive spooky night out while also ensuring no contact. The show is loved by boils and ghouls from all over WNC and is proudly presented by our title sponsor Mellow Mushroom Asheville. The Treetop Adventure Park Aerial Glow Trail is available for purchase for guests 4 years or older to enjoy at this event! Climb on two aerial trails while they are illuminated with thousands of colorful twinkle and laser lights. If you want to enjoy both of these amazing activities, combo passes are available and WILL sell out, so make sure you reserve your tickets early! *The Haunted Trail does not sell out, however the entrance closes at 9 pm. Join us in saying BOO! to hunger; Each Ticket purchased to this event raises 4 meals for MANNA foodbank. For younger guests who still aren’t sure about being scared, even for fun, a “Sweet Peek Tour’ is offered nightly at 6:45 pm. The trail is actor free at this time and allows any nervous little monsters to decide if they would like to re enter the line and receive the full show. Don’t miss PIRATES COVE! Featuring a 30 ft Pirate Ship Escape Room, Live Mermaid Encounter with photo opportunity, and free pirate themed activities. In addition to the Haunted & Aerial Glow Trails and Pirates Cove, there will be an entire festival with games, local vendors, food and brews, and new this year: a Cotton Candy Robot! Scare you there! Oct 3-4-10-11-17-18-19-23-24-25-26 6-9 PM
She Kills Monsters is a heartfelt and humorous story about Agnes, who discovers her late sister Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons campaign. As she navigates Tilly’s fantasy world, Agnes uncovers hidden truths about her sister’s life, grief, and their bond, blending fantasy adventure with real-world emotions. Shows are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 7:30 each night by the Montford Park Players. And always FREE! No Sunday performances for the last weekend of each show.
Wed-Sun September 24th – October 12th
Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays: 7:30pm
Fridays & Sundays: 2:00pm
The first summer blockbuster movie, Jaws, is being filmed—but no one working on the film would know it. Dive deep into the tumultuous, murky waters of the making of a major motion picture with testy, feuding costars, unpredictable weather, and a shark prop whose constant breakdowns are looking like an omen for the future of the movie. In this comedy co-written by Ian Shaw and Joseph Nixon, the short tempers of Jaws stars Robert Shaw (father of co-writer Ian), Richard Dreyfuss, and Roy Scheider take center stage as they bond, argue, drink, gamble, and pray for an end to the shoot, not knowing it will change their lives forever.
Regular Adult Tickets: $24-$48 (depending on chosen seat)
Student Tickets: $10 (18 and under/ college and graduate students with student ID)
October 10 – 26
Grab your guitars and dust off your cowboy boots before heading out to the Playhouse Barn for Autumn at the Opry, Vol. 2. This popular country extravaganza is back with all new music and showcases everything from bluegrass to honky-tonk, tin pan alley to pop standards, and the blues to rock-n-roll. Join our world-class musicians and singers in this ode to The Grand Ole Opry. We guarantee a hand-clappin,’ foot-stompin’ good time.
Event Times: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Ticket Prices: $48 / $58 / $68
Child Pricing Available (17 & under)

BEFORE + AFTERPARTY
Saturday, October 11
8:30–11:00 pm
Suggested donation $40
Open to all
I Spy an immersive projection experience in the Center for Craft’s Ideation Lab. Curated cocktails, DJ, hands-on craft activities with Print House and Swannatopia, and a dance floor.
Bring an object to cast in acrylic. Record a message for the digital time capsule. Don’t miss it!
Sliding scale entry to support the Center for Craft’s mission to resource, catalyze, and amplify makers and scholars.
Activation and music by Frisson Studios.
Graphic design by Maxwell James Sauls.
Grease
September 19 – October 12, 2025
Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Sponsored by: HomeTrust Bank
Bursting with high-octane fun and unforgettable songs like “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’,” and “You’re the One That I Want,” Grease is the ultimate rock-and-roll celebration. Step back into the 1950s as Rydell High’s senior class navigates the ups and downs of love, identity, and teenage rebellion. One of the most popular musicals of all time, Grease is a rollicking good time.
Supported by a live five-piece band!
What do you do when the dream comes true? You take it on the road and share it with the world! Venardos Circus is thrilled to announce the launch of a SECOND Touring Company and an All-New Production “FAR BEYOND.” The show will play at Tanger Outlets in Asheville, October 2 – 19, 2025. Tickets are on sale now!
The show will feature Singing Ringmaster Julia Swann, the Reyes Brothers’ Juggling Perch Pole, the Mind-Bending Contortion of Nordic Beauty Sno Bunta, Slapstick Sensation Sam Ferlo, Duo Dadiva’s Astonishing Aerial Acrobatics, the Ridiculous Rob Lok, Priscilla & Jonathan’s Diabolical Daggers, and the Wicked Wheel of Wonder! All this and more are woven together with Venardos’ unique theatrical musical production style. This production explores what happens when a dream comes true, what we discover about ourselves, and ultimately the responsibility we all share to keep reaching “FAR BEYOND.”
“This has been a dream in the making for a very long time” said Producer, Kevin Venardos. “Everyone knows bringing a dream to fruition is no simple task and to create an entirely different touring company that mirrors the same talent, values, and level of professionalism we bring to our audiences is truly a labor of love. We cannot wait to visit more cities and introduce The Little Circus that Could to even more people.”
The magical experience that is the signature of Venardos Circus from the moment you enter the tent remains but with new acts, music, and a different dream to share. The show schedule will be as follows:
• Thursday, October 2 – 7 p.m. OPENING NIGHT
• Friday, October 3 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 4 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 5 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 8 – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, October 9 – 7 p.m.
• Friday, October 10 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 11 – 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 12 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 15 – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, October 16 – 7 p.m.
• Friday, October 17 – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 18 – 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
• Sunday, October 19 – 2 p.m., 5 p.m.
Tickets: Kid’s (under 12) tickets start at $19 and $31.33 for adults. Prices include taxes and fees. One baby in arms is admitted free with each paying adult. (Two years old or younger per paying adult seated on a lap). Premier Gallery and VIP Experience Reserved seating is available. In the new, larger tent, fans will still enjoy the intimate feel and proximity to the performers but with enhanced views of aerial acts due to the taller design of the tent. The VIP Experience will offer assigned seating closest to the stage with guests escorted to their positions and other special experiences. Premier Gallery seating will occupy a multi-tier riser to provide greater visibility.
The circus performers are also the crew on this traveling tour, much like the original circus tradition. There are no animals in Venardos Circus.
Parking: Doors open an hour prior to showtime. Concessions are available when doors open. Classic circus treats like fresh popcorn, cotton candy, house-made all-natural pink lemonade, packaged candy, and more are available for presale online or in the tent. The complete show schedule is available at www.VenardosCircus.com.
What to expect on site:
• The parking area is flat so there is easy handicap access between the lot and the tent.
• Concessions are available but we encourage guests to order online when purchasing tickets. Contactless payment options available.
• The main event lasts approximately 90 minutes, with a brief intermission.
About Venardos Circus:
The Venardos Circus, a unique Broadway-Style Circus performance, has been touring the U.S. since its debut at the L.A. County Fair in 2014. It is reinventing the American Circus tradition for a new generation with Broadway-style flair, bringing joy to people across the U.S. Theatre lovers and nostalgic circus fans alike will appreciate the intimate experience and sentimental way the show pays homage to circus traditions through the lens of high-quality entertainment for a modern family audience.
For more information, please visit www.venardoscircus.com
Discover the Hendersonville Farmers Market, Locally Grown, Community Strong
A vibrant weekly gathering at the Historic Train Depot in downtown Hendersonville. Running every Saturday from May 3rd to October 25th, rain or shine, the market showcases over 30 local vendors within a 60-mile radius. From farm-fresh produce and meats to baked goods, crafts, and live entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Join us from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for a celebration of food, farms, and family in a lively community atmosphere.
Winter Market 2025
Join us for our Winter Market filled with handmade treasures, unique vendors, and delicious food. Get ready for a fun and festive experience!
We still have a couple of vendor and food truck spots left. Please contact Third Day Design at [email protected] to reserve space at the Winter Market or any future event at WOLT. Vendor/Food truck fee is $20.
Asheville locals look forward to the annual Scouting America Scout Troop 17 barbecue dinner fundraiser. The event, set for Saturday, October 11, 2025, offers tender, juicy Western North Carolina smoked BBQ dinners with all the fixin’s. Take out dinners will be served behind the Riceville Fire Department and Community Center, 2251 Riceville Road, Asheville, NC, 11:00AM – 4:00PM or while supplies last. Outside Creekside picnic tables are available for dining.
Pitmasters smoke premium North Carolina pork shoulders throughout the night prior to the event. Dinners include a generous portion of tender, juicy BBQ pork, homemade BBQ sauce, home baked beans, North Carolina BBQ slaw and a southern roll.
The charge for BBQ dinner plates will be $12.00. Reservations are not required. Creekside Picnic Tables available for all. Additional donations to benefit the Scouts are always appreciated.
We’re turning 75 and you’re invited!
Join us as we raise a glass to 75 years of compassion, community, and animal lifesaving. This casual birthday celebration is our way of saying thank you to the people who’ve made it all possible—you.
Expect an afternoon full of fun:
A special birthday treat for dogs and humans
Photo booth fun
Live Music
Pet Vendors
Stories and gratitude from the BRHS team
An Artisan Market & Bloody Mary Bar presented by Mills River Brewing
NO tickets needed. There is a suggested donation at the door—just bring your friends, your family, and your love for animals.
Raffle proceeds and donations support the programs that help pets and people across our community.
Thank you to our event sponsors: Hunter Subaru, Wag: A Unique Pet Boutique, Wild Birds Unlimited, Stuller Power Solutions
For more information or to find out how you can get involved, contact us at [email protected].
Big Game, Bright Ideas!
The Children’s Entrepreneur Market is setting up shop at the UNC-Asheville Women’s Soccer Game for a special event full of team spirit and young talent!
Come cheer on the Bulldogs and shop from kid-run businesses offering everything from handmade crafts to sweet treats and creative products. It’s the perfect blend of community, creativity, and soccer excitement!
Let’s rally behind our young entrepreneurs and student-athletes all for one unforgettable afternoon!

Asheville Plays is eeeek!cited to announce the 13th annual Haunted Trail; Asheville’s only family friendly haunt! This event is ideal for Halloween lovers of all ages, 3-12 being the suggested age range. The Adventure Center of Asheville is the host of this one of a kind live outdoor theatrical experience where guests are promised an entirely immersive and interactive spooky night out while also ensuring no contact. The show is loved by boils and ghouls from all over WNC and is proudly presented by our title sponsor Mellow Mushroom Asheville. The Treetop Adventure Park Aerial Glow Trail is available for purchase for guests 4 years or older to enjoy at this event! Climb on two aerial trails while they are illuminated with thousands of colorful twinkle and laser lights. If you want to enjoy both of these amazing activities, combo passes are available and WILL sell out, so make sure you reserve your tickets early! *The Haunted Trail does not sell out, however the entrance closes at 9 pm. Join us in saying BOO! to hunger; Each Ticket purchased to this event raises 4 meals for MANNA foodbank. For younger guests who still aren’t sure about being scared, even for fun, a “Sweet Peek Tour’ is offered nightly at 6:45 pm. The trail is actor free at this time and allows any nervous little monsters to decide if they would like to re enter the line and receive the full show. Don’t miss PIRATES COVE! Featuring a 30 ft Pirate Ship Escape Room, Live Mermaid Encounter with photo opportunity, and free pirate themed activities. In addition to the Haunted & Aerial Glow Trails and Pirates Cove, there will be an entire festival with games, local vendors, food and brews, and new this year: a Cotton Candy Robot! Scare you there! Oct 3-4-10-11-17-18-19-23-24-25-26 6-9 PM
She Kills Monsters is a heartfelt and humorous story about Agnes, who discovers her late sister Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons campaign. As she navigates Tilly’s fantasy world, Agnes uncovers hidden truths about her sister’s life, grief, and their bond, blending fantasy adventure with real-world emotions. Shows are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 7:30 each night by the Montford Park Players. And always FREE! No Sunday performances for the last weekend of each show.
Wed-Sun September 24th – October 12th
Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays: 7:30pm
Fridays & Sundays: 2:00pm
The first summer blockbuster movie, Jaws, is being filmed—but no one working on the film would know it. Dive deep into the tumultuous, murky waters of the making of a major motion picture with testy, feuding costars, unpredictable weather, and a shark prop whose constant breakdowns are looking like an omen for the future of the movie. In this comedy co-written by Ian Shaw and Joseph Nixon, the short tempers of Jaws stars Robert Shaw (father of co-writer Ian), Richard Dreyfuss, and Roy Scheider take center stage as they bond, argue, drink, gamble, and pray for an end to the shoot, not knowing it will change their lives forever.
Regular Adult Tickets: $24-$48 (depending on chosen seat)
Student Tickets: $10 (18 and under/ college and graduate students with student ID)
The 44th annual Western North Carolina Parade of Homes, happening October 11-12 and 18-19, is a free, self-guided tour of new and remodeled homes by top builders throughout Asheville, Hendersonville, Black Mountain, Fairview, and beyond. Visitors can explore a wide variety of homes in person or take advantage of virtual tours. Whether you’re dreaming, designing, or actively building, the Parade offers inspiration at every price point. Sponsored by the Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For more information, visit wncparadeofhomes.com.
October 10 – 26
Grab your guitars and dust off your cowboy boots before heading out to the Playhouse Barn for Autumn at the Opry, Vol. 2. This popular country extravaganza is back with all new music and showcases everything from bluegrass to honky-tonk, tin pan alley to pop standards, and the blues to rock-n-roll. Join our world-class musicians and singers in this ode to The Grand Ole Opry. We guarantee a hand-clappin,’ foot-stompin’ good time.
Event Times: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Ticket Prices: $48 / $58 / $68
Child Pricing Available (17 & under)

