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, December 10, 2023
Uncommon Holiday Market
Dec 10 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Mission Health/AB Tech Conference Center
The Uncommon Holiday Market is in its 9th season of gathering makers of art and handmade items as well as curators of antique & vintage finds.
The market will be held at the beautiful Mission Health/AB Tech Conference Center from 10 am – 4 pm both days.
Admission is FREE this year so please be generous & give to our 501C3 partner Mountain Pet Rescue, a foster-based animal rescue serving cats and dogs in the Asheville area.
Parking is also FREE!
This is an INDOOR & OUTDOOR market and Service dogs only are allowed inside.
Food will be available both days from 11-3.
Holiday Pop Up Shop + Open Studio
Dec 10 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
LOOM Imports Studio

Join us for a Holiday Pop Up Shop at Open Studio

Saturday, December 9th – 11-5
Sunday, December 10th – 11-5

115 Elk Mountain Road, North Asheville NC 28804

Shop pottery, art, vintage clothing, home goods, jewelry, teas, tinctures, gifts + more from:
@gennypopshop
@a13rattlesnakesandrainbows
@junopottery
@heilbronherbs
@loomimports
@yewocollective

Community Holiday Extravaganza
Dec 10 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Arthur R. Edington Center

Join us for the 2nd Annual Holiday Extravaganza, hosted by R2S, on Sunday, December 10th, from noon to 5 pm. We are excited to announce that Derrick Barnes, a critically acclaimed author of “Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut” (Agate), as well as three NY Times Bestsellers (“The King of Kindergarten”, “I Am Every Good Thing”, and “The Queen of Kindergarten”), will be joining us.

We will be celebrating the release of his newest book, “Santa’s Gotta Go!”, by giving out free copies! In addition to meeting the author, we have other exciting events planned such as holiday carnival games, hot cocoa bars, cookie decorating, holiday crafts, free food, and more!

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with us!

REFRACTION ART MARKET
Dec 10 @ 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Wedge Brewery at Foundation

Refraction Holiday Art Market Returns to Wedge Brewing
RAD community artists share their creative roots as Refraction market vendors
Asheville, NC, December 10, 2023: Refraction Art Market, a curated art market celebrating the vibrant artistic energy the Wedge was built upon will be returning to the Wedge at Foundation for its third year. The art showcased will represent a wide array of high quality work including ceramics, painting, printmaking, woodwork, jewelry, leather, glass and more. The event will run from 12-6 pm at the Wedge at Foundation, 5 Foundy St.
Refraction cofounder Andrew Massey fondly remembers the days of walking down to the Wedge after a long day in the ceramics studio and having a beer alongside a plethora of other artists. The Wedge was the watering hole for the community from the get go, the place where you could count on sharing ideas and creative visions amongst a pool of equally passionate creators. While Asheville has grown, the Wedge and the River Arts District have still held that feeling of creative source, which is why Andrew and Amy are so passionate about bringing artists together for Refraction. Their mission is to ignite the creative energy that pulses at the heart of the RAD and create space for a multitude of talented artists to share their work and their love for this community.

URLs:
Facebook: https://go.evvnt.com/2083107-2?pid=10412
Instagram: https://go.evvnt.com/2083107-3?pid=10412

Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic + Feature Comedy
Dec 10 @ 6:30 pm
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co

Another Great Comedy Show at Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co, Theater 2! 6:30p, 18+, Get Dinner, Drinks & Laughs with the areas best standup comics. Featured and Open Mic Comedy. [Performing comics get FREE entry and pizza. ]
Get Your Tickets Now!! Hosted Mario Trevizo. Featuring Ryan Cox, Miranda Allison & Art Sturtevant!!
For more info and other standup comedy shows go to sliceoflifecomedy.com or contact Michele at [email protected]

Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic+ Feature Comedy
Dec 10 @ 6:30 pm
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co

Another Great Comedy Show at Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co, Theater 2! 6:30p, 18+, Get Dinner, Drinks & Laughs with the areas best standup comics. Featured and Open Mic Comedy. [Performing comics get FREE entry and pizza. ]
Get Your Tickets Now!! Hosted Mario Trevizo. Featuring great regional comics!
For more info and other standup comedy shows go to sliceoflifecomedy.com or contact Michele at [email protected]

Monday, December 11, 2023
Handmade Ornament Sale
Dec 11 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Black Mountain Center for the Arts

Give the gift of holiday joy in the form of a unique, beautiful, locally made ornament! Handcrafted ornaments made by local artists will be for sale in our lobby on our Christmas tree through the middle of December. Gift the gift of art this year and support local artists in the process!

Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Handmade Ornament Sale
Dec 12 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Black Mountain Center for the Arts

Give the gift of holiday joy in the form of a unique, beautiful, locally made ornament! Handcrafted ornaments made by local artists will be for sale in our lobby on our Christmas tree through the middle of December. Gift the gift of art this year and support local artists in the process!

Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Handmade Ornament Sale
Dec 13 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Black Mountain Center for the Arts

Give the gift of holiday joy in the form of a unique, beautiful, locally made ornament! Handcrafted ornaments made by local artists will be for sale in our lobby on our Christmas tree through the middle of December. Gift the gift of art this year and support local artists in the process!

WNCSource’s Bargain Hendo Thrift Store closing sale
Dec 13 @ 10:00 am
Bargain Hendo Thrift Store

Bargain Hendo Thrift Store will be permanently closing its doors on December 13th.
• WNCSource operates the small thrift store which is located on the corner of King Street
and 2nd Avenue in Hendersonville.
• Bargain Hendo first opened in December of 2020 and was meant to support the programs
and services WNCSource provides in 4 western North Carolina Counties. Unfortunately,
low sales and competition from other local thrift stores has made the store less than
profitable.
• But don’t worry, starting Thursday, November 2nd, Bargain Hendo will be open
Wednesdays through Fridays 10AM to 4PM and Saturdays from 10AM to 2PM with some
incredible bargains and sales to clear the shelves.
• Bargain Hendo’s last day is December 13th

Thursday, December 14, 2023
Handmade Ornament Sale
Dec 14 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Black Mountain Center for the Arts

Give the gift of holiday joy in the form of a unique, beautiful, locally made ornament! Handcrafted ornaments made by local artists will be for sale in our lobby on our Christmas tree through the middle of December. Gift the gift of art this year and support local artists in the process!

Friday, December 15, 2023
Handmade Ornament Sale
Dec 15 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Black Mountain Center for the Arts

Give the gift of holiday joy in the form of a unique, beautiful, locally made ornament! Handcrafted ornaments made by local artists will be for sale in our lobby on our Christmas tree through the middle of December. Gift the gift of art this year and support local artists in the process!

Saturday, December 16, 2023
Plant Club Pop-up Market
Dec 16 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Art Garden AVL

Come enjoy the Canopy Gallery and check out local growers and makers of all things plantie: from rare tropicals to native medicinals, handmade pots and trellises to botanical watercolor paintings, cut flower bouquets to herbal salves and teas….

Pop-up market features 6-10 local plant vendors on the 3rd Saturday of each month. This event is free to attend and vend.

Merry Makers Market
Dec 16 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Atelier Maison & Co.

Support local + small this holiday season at our 𝑴𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒚 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒆𝒕!
We’re decking the halls as you shop housewares, vintage pieces, original art, handmade craft, fair trade imports, and more! Free and open to the public. Dogs are welcome! Vendors are setup inside and outside the showroom and runs rain, snow, or shine. Parking is available behind the showroom.

The Little Crafty
Dec 16 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Grove Arcade
The Big Crafty and The Grove Arcade are pleased to present The Little Crafty!
The Big Crafty’s lil’ sister event will be held within the Grove Arcade on December 16th and 17th from 12-5pm.
A cozy curation of artists and makers will set up shop for a festive weekend — along with live music, artist demonstrations, and more — all within one of Asheville’s finest architectural gems.
Find special gifts and enjoy the beauty of the Grove Arcade’s Winter Wonderland at the first ever Little Crafty Holiday Market!
Weihnachtsmarkt: German-inspired Holiday Market
Dec 16 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Hi-Wire Brewing RAD Beer Garden
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at our German-inspired Holiday Market on Saturday, December 16th, from 12-5pm! 🇩🇪 Transforming our RAD Beer Garden into a winter wonderland reminiscent of the traditional Christmas markets in Germany and neighboring countries, each shipping container will become a charming stall.
Indulge your taste buds with authentic German delights from Haus Heidlberg German Food Truck, savor delectable Blunt Pretzels, and treat yourself to the delightful creations of Mount Patisserie baked goods. With 10 vendors already confirmed and more to come, you’ll discover an array of unique gifts and crafts to make your holiday shopping a breeze.
Warm up with the cozy tradition of Glühwein, a delightful mulled wine enjoyed in the festive season throughout the region. Soak in the holiday ambiance, indulge in delicious treats, and find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Don’t miss this enchanting holiday market—it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season!
South Slope Makers Market + Bar Hop
Dec 16 @ 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Urban Orchard Cider Company
Join us holiday season in the South Slope neighborhood of Asheville, NC to shop 35 vendors with a drink in hand!
Find vendors, drinks and food at all of these fun locations! 👇
Green Man Brewing
27 Buxton Ave
Urban Orchard Cider Co
24 Buxton Ave
Twin Leaf Brewing
144 Coxe Ave
Hi-Wire Brewing
197 Hilliard Ave
Products will be a wide variety of handmade goods such as woodworking, original art, jewelry, knit goods, home decor, metal working, prints, soap, paintings, candles and so much more!
No MLM or direct sales will be present.
This event is FREE to attend! You only pay for the items you wish to purchase and the drinks you want to consume.
​This is a family friendly event, however please note alcohol will be present due to the nature of the venues.
If you are 21 or older and choose to drink, please drink responsibly.
One Human Family
Dec 16 @ 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Harvest House Community Center

Is there more that unites us than we realize? How can spirituality help us look past our differences as people and nations and instead focus on the inherent commonality we all share as spiritual beings part of one humankind?

 

The world around us seems focused on amplifying the existing fractures in society, highlighting messages of division and conflict over those of peace and unity. So in this environment, how can we as individuals make a difference? Can spirituality help us foster that peace and unity? How can we stop talking over each other and start listening to those we disagree with? How can we create unified and inclusive communities that can work for the benefit of us all?

 

Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on our essential common humanity. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore the role of spirituality in healing the divisions present in our society.

 

 

“The tabernacle of unity hath been raised; regard ye not one another as strangers. Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch.” – Bahá’í Teachings

 

*** This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted

Sunday, December 17, 2023
The Little Crafty
Dec 17 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Grove Arcade
The Big Crafty and The Grove Arcade are pleased to present The Little Crafty!
The Big Crafty’s lil’ sister event will be held within the Grove Arcade on December 16th and 17th from 12-5pm.
A cozy curation of artists and makers will set up shop for a festive weekend — along with live music, artist demonstrations, and more — all within one of Asheville’s finest architectural gems.
Find special gifts and enjoy the beauty of the Grove Arcade’s Winter Wonderland at the first ever Little Crafty Holiday Market!
The Star Market
Dec 17 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
The Canopy at Art Garden AVL,
FIRSTwnc and Imprint Artists are coming together to create: The Star Market

Sunday, December 17, 2023, from 1-4 pm

This is a free market that will be held in The Canopy at Art Garden AVL, 191 Lyman St., #316, Asheville, NC, 28801

The two local non-profits, FIRSTwnc and Imprint Artists have come together to bring a unique holiday market filled locally hand crafted treasures by artists supported by the two organizations.

“Our mission at FIRSTwnc is to help all people, especially persons with disabilities more fully participate in the community. We work directly with persons with disabilities and their families to help them navigate complex systems and get the resources they need to thrive. With our specialized knowledge and dedicated perseverance we are able to move mountains and create solutions. We believe that individuals with disabilities can thrive within the community. Thus, we work hard to arm families and persons with disabilities with the required knowledge and support to make this a reality.”

“Imprint Artists serves artists and creative individuals through mentorship and programming that provides tools to develop the financial autonomy necessary to navigate the marketplace without having to compromise their integrity, principles or values. In this way, Imprint Artists elevates the human experience as well as quality of life through funding projects and programming that encourage cultural preservation and ritual as demonstrated through the arts.”

1

A Swannanoa Solstice
Dec 17 @ 2:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

For more than 20 years, this beloved local holiday tradition has ushered in the winter season with a joyful infusion of performances by the best and brightest artists in our region. This year, the celebration welcomes the next generation of musicians to the stage to spread seasonal warmth, magic and cheer with Celtic, American-roots and world-influenced music, rousing dance and timeless stories — illuminating winter’s darkest day with wonder and peace.

The 2023 A Swannanoa Solstice features performances by:

-John Doyle
-John Goforth
-E.J. Jones & The Piper Jones Band
-Jane Kramer
-Becky Stone
-Zoe & Cloyd

A Swannanoa Solstice
Dec 17 @ 7:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

For more than 20 years, this beloved local holiday tradition has ushered in the winter season with a joyful infusion of performances by the best and brightest artists in our region. This year, the celebration welcomes the next generation of musicians to the stage to spread seasonal warmth, magic and cheer with Celtic, American-roots and world-influenced music, rousing dance and timeless stories — illuminating winter’s darkest day with wonder and peace.

The 2023 A Swannanoa Solstice features performances by:

-John Doyle
-John Goforth
-E.J. Jones & The Piper Jones Band
-Jane Kramer
-Becky Stone
-Zoe & Cloyd

Tuesday, December 19, 2023
The Blackout Diaries Comedy Show
Dec 19 @ 8:00 pm
Pulp Lounge

During this year’s holiday break, forget all the craziness and bring the whole (drinking age) family & friends out to hear tales of triumph (but mostly hilarious tragedy) while drinking heavily. Starting its roots in Chicago, and hosted by the hilarius Alex Joyce, The Blackout Diaries is an interactive comedy show were standup comedians, plus ‘regular’ people (cops, firefighters, teachers, etc) tell true drinking stories with photos from the events. Then you, the audience, can ask questions.
The Blackout Diaries has been selected as ‘Critics’ Choice in The Chicago Reader, Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun Times and more. Segments from the show have appeared on Comedy Central, NPR, Sirius Radio and more. A review once described the show as “a reverse AA meeting”. We still don’t know if that was a positive review or not, but we feel it sums the show up well.
Alex Joyce has been performing stand up comedy for 13 years. After graduating from The University of Alabama he moved to Chicago where he studied at the Second City Training Center for Sketch Writing. He is co producer and performer in The Blackout Diaries, a weekly show at The Lincoln Lodge Theater where comedians tell wild drinking stories and the audience gets to ask questions. Joyce returns to Asheville regularly to visit family and perform. Joyce lives in Chicago.
Featuring Hilliary Begley. Patey Smith McDowell & Roman Fraden

The Blackout Diaries Comedy Show at The Pulp
Dec 19 @ 8:00 pm
Pulp Lounge

During this year’s holiday break, forget all the craziness and bring the whole (drinking age) family & friends out to hear tales of triumph (but mostly hilarious tragedy) while drinking heavily. Starting its roots in Chicago, and hosted by the hilarius Alex Joyce, The Blackout Diaries is an interactive comedy show were standup comedians, plus ‘regular’ people (cops, firefighters, teachers, etc) tell true drinking stories with photos from the events. Then you, the audience, can ask questions.
The Blackout Diaries has been selected as ‘Critics’ Choice in The Chicago Reader, Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun Times and more. Segments from the show have appeared on Comedy Central, NPR, Sirius Radio and more. A review once described the show as “a reverse AA meeting”. We still don’t know if that was a positive review or not, but we feel it sums the show up well.
Alex Joyce has been performing stand up comedy for 13 years. After graduating from The University of Alabama he moved to Chicago where he studied at the Second City Training Center for Sketch Writing. He is co producer and performer in The Blackout Diaries, a weekly show at The Lincoln Lodge Theater where comedians tell wild drinking stories and the audience gets to ask questions. Joyce returns to Asheville regularly to visit family and perform. Joyce lives in Chicago.
Featuring Hilliary Begley. Petey Smith McDowell & Roman Fraden

Thursday, December 21, 2023
Witchy Wonderland Solstice Market
Dec 21 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
New Belgium Brewing
Come celebrate Yule solstice! Join us for a cozy evening in the brewhouse and get your last minute holiday shopping on! From 5-8 pm!
Lots of amazing crafters and makers with a special guest
Third Eye Coffee truck outside to keep ya warm!
Can’t wait to see y’all there!
The Longest Night Service
Dec 21 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
First United Methodist Church

The longest night of the year happens at the time of the winter solstice. This event is for all our
friends, neighbors and visitors to the community who may be experiencing sadness or grieving a loss, and struggling to find comfort
and joy during the Advent and Christmas seasons. The Longest Night service offers a reflective, sacred space, holding out healing
and hope.

 

Friday, December 22, 2023
Our Biggest Plant Sale of the Year
Dec 22 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Canopy at Art Garden AVL

Join us for our biggest plant sale of the whole year! Take 20% off of all plants – yes, even the rare ones!

Saturday, December 23, 2023
7th Annual JINGLE + MINGLE: HOLIDAY CRAFT MARKET
Dec 23 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
The Grey Eagle
Holiday Craft Market FB 122323

– LOCAL POP-UP CRAFT MARKET
– FREE ADMISSION
– 10AM – 3PM

We’ll have local vendors set up selling handmade goods, arts, and crafts just in time for holiday gift-giving. Be sure to grab a bite from our in-house Taqueria and a drink from the bar as you peruse Asheville’s finest makers. Plus, we’ll set the mood with some classic holiday tunes!

Interested in becoming a vendor? Please send an email to [email protected].

Activation in the Park
Dec 23 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
French Broad River Park
Activation in the Park

Activation in the Park

French Broad River Park: Go to the parking lot off of Riverview Drive, which is off of Amboy Rd. Find the cobalt blue canopy tent!

We will be as close to as directly across the parking lot as we can, near the water, with the tent (go past the bathrooms and head to the water). So, you should be able to find us pretty easily if it’s your first time).

We’ll enjoy meditations/visualizations, psychic ability empowerment, chakra activations, and lively discussions about how we can participate in the evolution of the new earth… a world where truth and the ethos of love (e.g.: Law of One) are the guiding forces.

All who are interested in spiritual growth and evolution and getting to know others who are “on their wavelength” are welcome.

NOTE: Bring a chair, pillow, or towel to sit on, an open mind, and energies of love, receptivity, and curiosity.

We look forward to meeting you!

Monday, January 1, 2024
Tao Te Ching Study Group – Verse #54 – Living as if Your Life Makes a Difference
Jan 1 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
online

Please join us on the 54th Verse of Tao Te Ching. From the book,
Change Your Thoughts Change Your Life. by: Dr. Wayne W. Dyer.

This reading is titled: Living as If Your Life Makes a Difference.

This meetup is on Monday, January 1st, 2024 – A wonderful conscious start to the New Year! Hope to see you all there.

Blessings,
Darcie Williams