Calendar of Events

Free to the public! No registration necessary.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, communities across Western North Carolina are facing significant challenges in recovery. With widespread tree loss, increased fire risks, and the need for careful rebuilding, having the right information and resources is essential.

Bullington Gardens and Family Tree Care are hosting a series of free educational events to help landowners, homeowners, and community members navigate the recovery process. These sessions will provide expert guidance on safety, cost-effective solutions, and long-term strategies to restore and protect our forests and landscapes.

Session 1: From Debris to Renewal: A Post-Storm Action Plan

Friday, April 4 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM-Lunch provided

Fire Hazard Reduction Post-Helene Learn about the increased fire risks caused by fallen trees and discover practical steps to protect your property. (Presented by the Fire Department)

Tree Risk Assessment & Tomography Testing

See a live demonstration of advanced tree risk assessment techniques, including tomography testing, to evaluate tree health and stability. (Presented by Bill Hascher, Biltmore)

Managing Mass Tree Fall Cost-Effectively

Explore strategies for dealing with extensive tree damage while understanding costs. This session includes a live demonstration of a Forest Mulcher in action, removing debris up to 16 inches in diameter. (Presented by Kris Wetmore, Family Tree Care) •

Hiring the Right Company

Learn how to choose a reliable tree care service, including what to look for in insurance, licensing, and credentials. (Presented by Steve Pettis, NC Cooperative Extension Agent.)

Session 2: Sunday, April 13 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Rebuilding Bullington & Planning for the Future

Discover how Bullington Gardens is restoring its landscape and how you can apply similar principles to your own property. (Presented by Annie Higgins, Director of Bullington Gardens)

Chainsaw Safety & Choosing the Right Saw

A hands-on session covering chainsaw safety, proper handling techniques, and selecting the best equipment for your needs. Safety gear and chaps will be provided. Participants must register for the hands-on portion of this class. (Presented by Chris Moore, 4×4 Country)

Managing Mass Tree Fall Cost-Effectively part 2

Explore strategies for dealing with extensive tree damage while understanding costs. (Presented by Kris Wetmore, Family Tree Care.)

Friday, April 4 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Sunday, April 13 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Bullington Gardens, 95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville, NC 28792

Whether you’re a homeowner, land manager, or someone who cares about the environment, these workshops will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to recover and rebuild.

Join us in shaping a stronger, more resilient Western North Carolina!

Join Jessa Kennedy, Holistic Esthetician, Crystal Reiki Master, and Sound Bath Practioner,
for a harmonic experience focused on nervous system regulation, energetic balance, and whole body wellness. Select Sundays.

Join us in the beautiful neighborhood of Olivette for an outdoor concert featuring two fantastic folk groups: A Different Thread and The Wilder Flower. $25 – Kids are free!

British-American troubadours A Different Thread create richly emotive tapestry of transatlantic folk. Lead singers Robert Jackson (Midlands, UK) and Alicia Best (North Carolina) first met busking in Ireland. Their chance encounter sparked a musical journey that has spanned over nine years, a dozen countries, and two studio albums— capturing the love of two folk singers chasing their dreams on the road.

The Wilder Flower, featuring Danielle Yother on guitar, Molly Johnson on banjo, and Madeline Dierauf on fiddle, encompasses a fresh take on rural Appalachian music. Together they blend modern influences with their deep roots of old time & bluegrass. Their songs are filled with three-part harmonies, tight instrumental blends, and storytelling.

Get ready to move, get inspired, and get your game on!

Discover your inner athlete and ignite your path to wellness at the Asheville Sports + Fitness Fair presented by Asheville Parks & Recreation! Step into the recently renovated Memorial Stadium as it transforms into a vibrant hub of energy showcasing the world of local sports leagues, fitness opportunities, and healthy living.

Explore youth and adult sports leagues, learn about organizations focused on wellness and active living, and discover a wealth of resources dedicated to improving well-being. Uncover hidden gems in the local fitness scene and learn about exciting new ways to stay active and engaged.

At 6pm, join the City of Asheville for a special ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony celebrating the renovation of Memorial Stadium and revitalization of Mountainside Park. It’s a chance to be part of Asheville’s commitment to health and recreation.
If your organization is interested in participating in the fair, please email [email protected]. Space is limited.

Explore the labyrinth as a practice of deep listening with our hearts and a metaphor for our spiritual path.

10 a.m. – Nature Immersion with Aimeé Bostwick
11 a.m. – Presentation in the Fireplace Lounge with Jaan Ferree
11:30 a.m. – Facilitated Labyrinth Walk at the outdoor labyrinth
12:30 p.m. – Lunch Buffet

Unleash your creativity at Bullington Gardens by learning to craft your very own hypertufa open roof planter! This hands-on class will guide you through the process of mixing and molding hypertufa—a lightweight, durable material perfect for garden containers. All materials are provided, so just bring your enthusiasm and get ready to create a unique piece for your garden. Whether you’re looking to add a rustic touch to your outdoor space or simply enjoy a fun afternoon of crafting, this class is perfect for all skill levels. Join us for a memorable experience and take home a beautiful, handcrafted container! April 18th, 2025, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM. $ 45.00. Class limit 10.

All About Bluebirds with Joe Sanders.

The recent upsurge in bluebird populations can largely be attributed to a movement of volunteer citizens establishing and monitoring bluebird nest boxes. Joe Sanders has been a bluebird protector for decades. His presentation gives an up close look at life in an active nest box and focuses on threats to the bluebird’s survival. Wear sturdy shoes and appropriate clothing for a walk to various nesting sites on the Arboretum grounds and an outdoor demonstration on how to monitor bluebird nest boxes.

The purpose of the Hendo Earth Fest is to promote community education for all ages on environmental and sustainable practices, inspire action, and renew and expand commitments to protect our planet. Local and regional environmental allies focus on participation/hands-on activities and demonstrations designed to educate, renew and expand action to protect our Western North Carolina environment and natural resources. In our first inaugural 2023 festival, we saw approximately 2,000+ participants!

Come on out and support our local people! Local artisans, crafts, produce, specialty foods, skin care, ets.

Join us on Saturday, April 19th, for a festive & unforgettable 420 block party! Enjoy fantastic vendors, live music and entertainment, delicious food, amazing in-store deals & discounts throughout the day! Plus, there will be exciting surprises, including a limited number of Golden Tickets that are redeemable on 4/19 or 4/20, and will be hidden inside select flower bags/Prerolls. Customers who find a ticket receive a free gram of their choice on 4/19 or 4/20. And on top of that, there will be a drawing for a Grand Prize Chromebook giveaway!
The Caravan Art Bazaar will transform our space into a hub of creativity, featuring live caricatures. Mo’s Magical Manes will add a touch of sparkle with fairy hair and bang trims, and Wyld Heart & Friends will showcase their unique one-of-a-kind creations.
Chill & relax at the traditional smoke sesh with the Asheville Dispensary crew at 4:20 PM. on our spacious deck & enjoy delicious food from The Royal Vegan Food Truck and Dalaya Thai Cuisine.
Whether you come for the art, the food, or the music, take a moment to kick back, unwind, and connect with the community. We’re offering a full day of uplifting experiences to enhance the vibe for 420 weekend 2025! This is one block party you won’t want to miss. We hope to see you there!
Celebrate with us! 919 Haywood Rd., West Asheville, 12 PM to 8 PM.

Grand Opening of Asheville’s ONLY professional Obstacle Course Race Training Center! Stop by and try out the new obstacles, enjoy food, fun, games, and giveaways. Great for the whole family!

Enjoy live music and traditional Appalachian performances by local musicians surrounded by the gardens and beautiful mountain vistas!

Performance Schedule

Celebrate Easter brunch with the whole family at Kanuga! Enjoy a delicious selection of seasonal favorites, including fresh pastries, savory entrees, and delicious desserts. Gather with loved ones in a warm and welcoming setting as we celebrate this special day together.

Ready to feel renewed and refreshed this Spring? Join me in relaxing your nervous system with a soothing Sound Bath!

Join your host Kristin Hillegas, for a one-hour Serenity Sound Bath and experience a deeply immersive, full-body sound and vibrational experience. A sound bath can cleanse your soul, restore your balance, surround you with peace and tranquility and stimulate healing.

Note: Please bring a yoga mat/pillow/blanket since you will be lying on the floor. Wear warm, comfortable, and flexible clothing.

The Sound Bath will take place upstairs in the Education Building. Choose your space starting at 12:45 PM, doors close promptly at 1:00 PM.
This service is being offered on a Love Offering basis. Donations allow us to continue to provide these immersive experiences.

Accessible parking is available in the Center for Spiritual Living Asheville upper parking lot. The entrance to the upper parking lot is off of S. Bear Creek Rd between Science of Mind Way and Sand Hill Rd.
There is a boardwalk walk-way from the upper parking lot to the building entrance.

Give back this Earth Day with Buncombe County Parks and Recreation.  Volunteers are invited to assist in clean-up and service projects.  Volunteers groups are limited in capacity so Volunteer Registration is required.  All tools and materials will be provided.   More details coming soon!

Meet Kanuga’s local animal ambassadors, catch critters in the stream, sow native seeds, and learn in our mini-ecology classes.

Post Helene, nurturing and repairing our relationship with and to Nature is vital for our children and our community. Gather with us at Kanuga to celebrate the wonders of Mother Earth! The fun begins at 3:30 p.m. Come meet our local animal ambassadors, catch critters in the stream, sow native seeds, and learn in our mini-ecology classes.

Support our organic garden by purchasing native plants.

We can’t wait to welcome you and your family to Kanuga!

Every other month we host a gathering to share what we are doing to RESIST the current attacks on our country, CONNECT with others and strengthen community, and REBUILD the broken pieces of our democracy.

EVERYONE who cares about democracy is invited. Join us!

This month we’ll have updates from our new action teams, including info on specific actions and events, plus updates on upcoming community service projects and other ways to get involved. We’ll also have a mini-training in individual rights and safety tips for taking part in public protests, plus info on an upcoming training in civil disobedience.

Bring your questions and ideas, hopes and dreams. We want your input. We can get through this when we work together!

If your organization is interested in collaborating with us, please reach out, and be sure to join us Tuesday if you can.

Check-in/happy hour: 5:30-6 pm. For those who can’t attend in person, the meeting will be livestreamed starting at 6 pm. Visit youtube.com/@indivisibleavl/streams.

Event is free but tickets are REQUIRED.

Price:
Free: USD 0.00

You’re invited to join CenterWell Senior Primary Care as we celebrate the opening of our new center in Asheville. Come see how CenterWell delivers primary care centered on seniors! Join us and meet the CenterWell physician and Care Team, tour our senior primary care center and enjoy free music, food, giveaways and more. Plus, meet Mister Moon, the mascot from the Asheville Tourists! We look forward to seeing you there!

Geology of the Blue Ridge II with Anton DuMars

Wednesday, April 23 |  12 – 4 pm

The second class of this two-part Geology course builds on fundamentals from the first class, Geology I. We progress to a model of Southern Appalachian Mountain building and include an overview of geologic processes such as earthquakes, mass movements, and floods. We wrap up with a summary of the Spruce Pine Mining District and the Sparta, NC Earthquake of 2020

iNaturalist: An Amazing Tool for Identification in Your Pocket with Lauren Lampley.

Thursday, April 24  |  2:30 – 4 pm

BRN + BREG – Elective

Learn how a smartphone app, iNaturalist, can both be a very useful identification tool and a way to participate in Community Science! Submitting observations to iNaturalist helps scientists learn more about species by crowd-sourcing information from users all over the world. During this class we will look at the different versions of the app and website as well as take some time outside to practice submitting your own using your own smartphone. The City Nature Challenge will take place from April 25-28 and is a great way to submit iNaturalist observations in a global effort as well as earn a Bioblitz patch from Science Across North Carolina! https://scienceacrossnc.org/

This program takes place in the classroom and outdoors. Please come prepared to walk on gentle, yet uneven terrain, and dress appropriately for the weather.

Wortham Presents The Magic of Jeki Yoo

Join Reiki Master Teacher and Yoga Nidra Facilitator, Kate Wargo of Woven Light in a soothing Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep) practice guiding you into the “in-between”; that space between being awake and asleep. Within this space, a dream will be induced taking you into a state of consciousness that can bring about immense healing in your conscious, subconscious, and unconscious mind.

The cave will transform into a “Nidra Nest” with comfy reclining loungers, blankets, and bolsters to fully support you, whether sitting or lying down, for the entire experience. During this session, Kate will also offer Reiki to those who desire it. Reiki feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. This divine energy treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind, and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security, and well-being.

Release stuck emotions, rest, and rejuvenate!

In collaboration with Pardee Hospital Foundation and Hunter Subaru, we are thrilled to present the 2nd Annual She Slays 5K. This event is all about celebrating the strength, courage, and fierce determination of women fighting cancer. Whether you walk or run, you’re making a difference for those who are in the midst of this battle. This event aims to empower people to take charge of their health and well-being, while also raising funds for Hendersonville women who are fighting cancer.

While this event supports women with cancer, everyone is welcome to participate!

Ages 5+

Suitable for Beginners to Advanced Birders

This outing takes place at Lake Julian Park from 8:30-11:30 am. Get to know the birds of Lake Julian, one of Buncombe County’s birding hotspots!  We will start with a walk along the shore of Lake Julian and ends with birding on the lake from Lake Julian’s pontoon boat.  Free, Registration Required.  Binoculars are available upon request but supplies are limited. Dress for the weather!

Registration opens 30 days prior to activity.

For more information email [email protected] or call 828-250-4260.

Native Azalea Day

April 26, 2025

Visit the gardens this spring for Native Azalea Day, an invitation to celebrate and experience azaleas through the eyes of plant enthusiasts, botanists, and artists. In partnership with the Mountain Science Exposition, Native Azalea Day plans to bring even more excitement in its third year! For one day only, visitors can observe as plein air artists capture the scene in paint and pen, learn about the garden and its collection on a walking tour, and participate in hands-on activities for children and adults.

A shuttle to the Collection will be available between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., departing to and from the Baker Visitor Center throughout the event. Visitors are also welcome to walk to the Native Azalea Collection from the Gatehouse Parking Lot using Old Mill Road to Bent Creek Road, or can park at the Baker Visitor Center and walk down Running Cedar Road to Bent Creek Road. Walkers should be prepared to travel one mile over unpaved roads and paths.

Schedule

10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Shuttles running continuously between Baker and Azalea Collection for public

8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.: Pre-registered bird netting activity with Wild Bird Research Group meets

10:00 a.m.: Event begins with ongoing walk-up features: tabling, activity booklet, scavenger hunt, and cyanotype activity

10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.: Pre-registered walking tour with curator (45 minute)

11:30 p.m. – 12:00 p.m.: Pre-registered walking tour with volunteer docent (30 minute)

12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.: Cyanotype demonstration with Calissa Lawn

1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.: Pre-registered walking tour with volunteer docent (30 minute)

2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Pre-registered walking tour with volunteer docent (30 minute)

3:00 p.m.: Event ends, last shuttle

Celebrate the Outdoor Industry Hub of the East and connect with local outdoor companies, products, and experiences at the free 10th Annual Get In Gear Fest.