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.

Sunday, May 11, 2025
A Rose by Another Name: Paper Flower Workshop
May 11 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
NC Arboretum

A Rose by Another Name: Paper Flower Workshop with Charlie Zimmerman.

Have you ever wished for flowers that would last forever? You can make your very own everlasting blooms out of paper! In this guided floral artistry workshop, you’ll learn basic techniques for crafting paper flowers with realistic petals, stamens, sepals, and more, while creating your own paper rose to admire and share. Throughout class we’ll talk about the botany of flowers and consider the role of each structure for plant reproduction and pollination. All tools and materials for constructing two paper roses are included.

Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Storytime on the Steps
May 14 @ 10:30 am – 11:00 am
J Hudson Booksellers

Bring your littles to the front steps of M. Judson for our bi-weekly story time! Enjoy some wonderful picture books read aloud to the crowd by our very own booksellers, and children will even get a sweet treat to go.

ecoEXPLORE–Herpetology
May 14 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Black Mountain Library

Kids, join us for an educational program with the North Carolina Arboretum to learn all about the many different Herptiles that call Western North Carolina their home! What’s a Herptile you ask? Herptiles are reptiles and amphibians! We’ll answer all of our biggest questions about Herptiles, like “Why are some amphibians slimy?” and “Where do Herptiles go in the winter?” Come ready to hear about the ecoEXPLORE program, find out what distinguishes Herptiles from other animals, where they live, what they eat, how they breathe, plus much more! Located at the Black Mountain Library.

Saturday, May 17, 2025
Kids’ Fishing Tournament
May 17 @ 8:00 am – 11:00 am
Lake Julian Park

This event is open to all youth 15 and under. Competitors will be divided into age groups (0-5, 6-10, and 11-15) with prizes in each for Biggest Fish (GRAND PRIZE), Smallest Fish, and Most Fish Caught.
This is a catch and release tournament. Each fish that is caught must be brought one at a time to the measuring station. After each fish has been measured, they will be released back into the lake. Your $10 registration fee includes a bucket, bait, plus snacks and drinks. You must be in the measuring station line before the horn goes off at 11:00 am to have your fish measured. Competitors must bring their own fishing poles and tackle.

Storytime on the Steps
May 17 @ 10:30 am – 11:00 am
J Hudson Booksellers

Bring your littles to the front steps of M. Judson for our bi-weekly story time! Enjoy some wonderful picture books read aloud to the crowd by our very own booksellers, and children will even get a sweet treat to go.

Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Up In the Air: Monitoring our Mountain Air Quality
May 21 @ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Black Mountain Library

Join us at the Black Mountain Library where local air quality staff will provide updates on post-Helene conditions, tips for protecting against pollution and wildfire smoke, and information on finding reliable air quality information.

Thursday, May 22, 2025
Healthy Trees, Thriving Landscapes
May 22 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Bullington Gardens

In this series of classes learn about tree health care and maintenance.

By cultivating and protecting healthy diverse habitats for pollinators, for wildlife, for healthy flora and fauna, we benefit the individuals who live in and enjoy these spaces and for our community, as a whole. By creating natural areas in your yard and leaving the leaves each fall you can benefit many kinds of insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals which depend on the native plants and their fallen leaves and seeds for shelter, food and habitat.

Join Steve Pettis, Henderson County Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent and host of the Gardening in the Mountains Radio Show and Podcast to learn how we can do things better!

May 22, 2025, 1:00-3:00pm.

Saturday, May 24, 2025
May Birding
May 24 @ 8:00 am – 11:00 am
Hickory Nut Gap Farm
  • Explore the Farm and surrounding forest with birder Clifton Avery of Ventures Birding Tours(@bigbaldbirder on IG) to spot the various species of birds that can be found in WNC!

  • Edge habitat birding, learn how planned grazing benefits the local avian population.

  • We will be hiking in uneven and sometimes steep terrain, so please wear sturdy shoes and be dressed for the weather.

  • Learn about our Holistic Land Management from Farm Director Virginia, and how this practice works in tandem with the local flora and fauna.

  • Spotted on the farm by our farm crew, staff & neighbors: bluebirds, a rainbow of finches, downy & hairy woodpeckers, vultures, cardinals, mourning doves, robins, red-shouldered hawks, swifts, egrets, blue herons, hermit thrush, golden-winged warblers and this last year we’ve had a resident Bald Eagle!

  • The end of May marks the tail end of spring migration and is when breeding is in full swing. We hope to find a few late season passage migrants as well as many nesting birds. A few of the many species we can expect to observe include indigo bunting, blue grosbeak, black-throated green warbler, scarlet tanager, and northern parula.

  • Attendees will break for an included biscuit brunch* from butcher Brian’s kitchen, as birding is hungry work. When attending classes, you will receive a 5% discount in the Farm Store & Butchery, just ask for the Savory Student Discount!

  • Birding courses are part of our Savory Naturalist Series! A portion of the proceeds for these events and classes support our activities as a Savory Hub, and further the reach of regenerative agriculture.

Cost: $30/person, biscuit brunch is included.

 

Storytime on the Steps
May 24 @ 10:30 am – 11:00 am
J Hudson Booksellers

Bring your littles to the front steps of M. Judson for our bi-weekly story time! Enjoy some wonderful picture books read aloud to the crowd by our very own booksellers, and children will even get a sweet treat to go.

Rhododendron Ramble
May 24 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

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.

Sunday, May 25, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 25 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

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.

Rhododendron Ramble
May 26 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 27 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Purple Party! Using Lavender
May 27 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Bullington Gardens

Let’s dive deep into lavender!  Participants will learn about the history of this plant, discover how it’s used to promote relaxation and wellness, and make their own DIY lavender products to take home.  We will make bath salts, pillow sprays, and tea blends to bring relaxation home!

Tuesday May 27, 2025, 2:00-4:00. $25.00/$21 for Friends of Bullington Gardens.

Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 28 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Thursday, May 29, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 29 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Friday, May 30, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 30 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Saturday, May 31, 2025
Dinner Under Dinos – A Parent’s Night Out
May 31 all-day
Asheville Museum of Science

Dinner Under Dinos is back by popular demand!

Parents- enjoy a night out downtown while treating your kid to a special after-hours event just for them- dinner and a movie at AMOS!

This fun-filled night includes pizza from a local vendor, free exhibit play, custom scavenger hunts for special prizes, and a kid-friendly movie to chill out. Parent drop-off begins at 5:30 with a pickup time between 8:30-9:30, plenty of time to enjoy a meal at any of Asheville’s downtown restaurants.

Dinner Under Dinos is for children 4+. All children must be able to go to the bathroom independently. Children may also bring a water bottle, snacks or an alternative meal. For more info contact [email protected].

Includes:

3 Hours of Museum Play (a G/PG movie will also be playing in the classroom)

Cheese Pizza, H20

Date: May 30th and 31st

Time: 5:30pm-9:00pm (Child(ren) must be picked up no later than 9pm; fees may apply if after 9pm)

Age: 4+ (* All children must be potty-trained to participate.)

Fees:

Per Child = $35.00

Additional Sibling = $30.00

The Sleeping Beauty – Ballet Conservatory of Asheville
May 31 all-day
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Ballet Conservatory of Asheville presents ‘The Sleeping Beauty’, A beautiful full length production of this classic ballet. Choreography after Marius Petipa with music by Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky.

Princess Aurora is cursed by the evil fairy Carabosse at her christening, however, the Lilac Fairy intervenes, ensuring Aurora will only sleep until a prince’s kiss awakens her, leading to a grand celebration when the prince finds and kisses her after a hundred years of slumber.

Featuring Ballet Tucson dancers, Hunter Solomon as Prince Desire, and Jessica Lynn as Aurora, alongside the celebrated Ballet Conservatory of Asheville’s pre professional company.

Storytime on the Steps
May 31 @ 10:30 am – 11:00 am
J Hudson Booksellers

Bring your littles to the front steps of M. Judson for our bi-weekly story time! Enjoy some wonderful picture books read aloud to the crowd by our very own booksellers, and children will even get a sweet treat to go.

Rhododendron Ramble
May 31 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Sunday, June 1, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
Jun 1 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Monday, June 2, 2025
Annual Meeting
Jun 2 @ 5:00 pm
Omni Grove Park Inn

Join us for an evening of celebration at the Chamber’s crowning event of the year! Mix and mingle with business and community leaders followed by a delicious Grove Park dinner. We’ll reflect on the past year, look to the future and honor outstanding business leaders.

Awards to be presented at the Annual Meeting:

  • Excellence in Public Service Award – presented by Mission Health
  • Small Business Leader of the Year – presented by HomeTrust Bank
  • Family Business Award – presented by UNC Asheville
  • President’s Award – presented by First Bank
  • Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Doors open at 5:00 pm. Dinner and program begins at 5:45 pm.

Thursday, June 5, 2025
Business After Hours
Jun 5 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
The Reserve at Gashes Creek

Make plans to join us for Business After Hours on Thursday, June 5th, from 5:30- 7 p.m. at The Reserve at Gashes Creek (1120 Gashes Ridge Lane off of Charlotte Highway). This evening of networking is the perfect chance to build new connections, catch up with fellow professionals, and explore one of Asheville’s scenic residential communities.

Saturday, June 7, 2025
Celebrate Land Trust Day in Asheville
Jun 7 all-day
Mast General Store

Celebrate Land Trust Day, Saturday, June 7, with Mast General Store! Meet representatives from Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy. The Asheville Mast Store will donate 20% of the day’s sales to this land trust partner so that it may continue its mission of helping our community maintain its natural landscapes, create shared open spaces, and preserve the beauty that lies just beyond our own backyards!

Henderson County Curb June Jamboree
Jun 7 @ 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Henderson County Curb Market

The Henderson County Curb Market, located at 221 N. Church Street in downtown Hendersonville, extends an invitation for its June Jamboree on Saturday, June 7th, from 8:00am – 2:00pm. The Market will offer live Bluegrass music by Liberty Road, a hot dog plate lunch available for purchase, a craft for Father’s Day at the children’s activity table, and a local authors’ signing. Visitors will enjoy chatting with Market vendors and shopping for produce and the many unique items created by local crafters. Fresh baked goods (including gluten free selections), free range eggs, preserves and honey will also be offered. With each purchase, a raffle ticket will be given for a chance to win a basket filled with Curb Market items donated by vendors. This is sure to be an enjoyable, relaxing day for all.

55th Annual Brevard AAUW Book Sale
Jun 7 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Brevard College Boshamer Gym

The Brevard Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is sponsoring its 55th Annual Book Sale, the largest and best book sale in North Carolina. Net proceeds support local STEM and educational scholarships for girls (5th-12th grades) and women at Brevard College and Blue Ridge Community College.

Book donations are collected in Yellow Boxes at numerous community locations from early February to late May 2025. Walk-in donations are accepted each Thursday until May 22 from 10am-2pm at The Book Book, 170 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC.

Father’s Day Mug Painting
Jun 7 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Resurrection Studios Collective

Join us for a special Father’s Day Mug Painting event! Create a unique gift for Dad while having fun. All ages welcome. Supplies provided. Don’t miss out!