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.
Friday, September 26 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Saturday, Sept 27 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
At each Plant Clinic, Master Gardener volunteers will be available to answer all of your gardening questions and address your related concerns. Feel free to bring plant or insect samples for identification and/or problem resolution. You can pick-up soil test kits and receive information about in-person programs and activities at The Learning Garden and the Gardening in the Mountains online seminars. Please stop by and learn more!
For more information on the plant sale, please refer to the WNC Arboretum website at ncarboretum.org
NOTE: The Arboretum’s standard $20 parking fee applies to all non-members.
Back by popular demand, the third Annual Mountain Monarch Festival will be at Gorges State Park in Sapphire on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This free event, hosted by the park and sponsored by the Friends of Gorges State Park and other partners, will celebrate the monarch butterfly during its migration and raise awareness about the species’ declining numbers. The park lies along the monarchs’ migratory route. The butterflies can be seen in early October each year flying over the park, heading south to the high-elevation fir forests in central-southern Mexico’s Volcanic Belt, where they overwinter until early spring.
The festival will offer educational programs and exhibits as well as children’s crafts, face painting by Brevard College cheerleaders, a butterfly hike, and a Monarch Migration Passport to guide visitors through the activities. The featured speakers will be Heyward Douglas, an entomologist who is a former naturalist and has served on the Foothills Trail Conservancy’s board of directors since 1989, who will talk about visiting the wintering area for the monarchs in Mexico, and Brian Bockhahn, interpretation and education specialist for North Carolina State Parks, who will discuss “Monarch Life Cycle and Tagging.”
The event, activities and programs are free and open to the public. The event will be held rain or shine and is first-come, first-served. For event details, visit https://www.friendsofgorges.org
This October, elected officials from city, county, and state government, campaign strategists, nonprofit leaders, and political science experts from Western Carolina University will join Asheville’s young professionals for 828 Lead, a new civic leadership bootcamp created and hosted by Asheville’s Young Professionals (AYPROS).
The three-day intensive runs October 3 – 5 at Hatchworks Coworking and brings together 30 up-and-coming leaders who want to run for office, serve on boards and commissions, or just figure out how campaigns actually work. They’ll sit in on Government 101, dive into a campaign-building workshop, and even practice delivering stump speeches. By Sunday, participants walk out not only with a recognition of participation signed by elected officials, but also a mentor connection and a clearer path into Asheville’s civic life.
Coverage opportunities:
-
Friday, Oct 3 (5:30–7:30 PM): Kickoff social with elected officials, hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, and n/a drinks
-
Saturday, Oct 4: Live campaign-building sessions, panels with elected leaders, and strategy coaching
-
Sunday, Oct 5: Stump speech coaching and a closing ceremony
This is the first program of its kind in Asheville, pairing current elected leaders with the region’s rising talent. It’s a timely story about how our city is preparing its civic pipeline, and a visual one with speeches, panels, and live training.
We’d love to see you there and can coordinate interviews with participating officials or cohort members.
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.
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.
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.
Hear from Buncombe County Commission Chair Amanda Edwards and Buncombe County Manager Avril Pinder at this re-envisioned Legislative Update event. You’ll gain insights on Buncombe County’s progress towards rebuilding and recovery along with envisioning the future. In this intimate conversation moderated by Chamber VP of Public Policy Casey Gilbert, our panelists will discuss how planning initiatives underway (such as parks, small area plans, infrastructure, childcare, housing and economic mobility) intertwine to build back a stronger, more resilient community.
Please join us to celebrate how far we’ve come – and to hear how the community’s feedback is shaping where we go from here.
43 Town Square Blvd.
Asheville, NC 28803
Marking Progress, Envisioning the Future: A Conversation with County Leaders
Hear from Buncombe County Commission Chair Amanda Edwards and Buncombe County Manager Avril Pinder at this re-envisioned Legislative Update event. You’ll gain insights on Buncombe County’s progress towards rebuilding and recovery along with envisioning the future. In this intimate conversation moderated by Chamber VP of Public Policy Casey Gilbert, our panelists will discuss how planning initiatives underway (such as parks, small area plans, infrastructure, childcare, housing and economic mobility) intertwine to build back a stronger, more resilient community.
Please join us to celebrate how far we’ve come – and to hear how the community’s feedback is shaping where we go from here.
3377 Sweeten Creek Rd.
Arden, NC 28704
Come join us for Business After Hours at B.B. Barns!
For 37 years, B.B. Barns has been at the heart of Asheville’s gardening community. What began as a humble outdoor outfitter in Oakley has grown into a 4.5-acre destination garden center on Sweeten Creek Road—and for the past 20 years, one of the region’s premier landscaping companies. From their welcoming shopping experience and expansive inventory of plants, garden supplies, and gifts, to their talented landscape design team and crews, they proudly bring beauty, creativity, and inspiration to homes and gardens across Western North Carolina.
During your visit, you’ll experience a magical transformation into a Christmas wonderland. Stroll through festive display trees, explore seasonal décor, and discover a wide selection of gifts—including garden-inspired treasures, locally crafted goods, and unique finds. Beyond the holiday shop, you’ll find their extensive nursery brimming with trees, shrubs, and perennials, seasonal annuals for year-round color, and one of the area’s best selections of houseplants. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, B.B. Barns has everything you need to grow and thrive.
B.B. Barns excited to partner with their neighbors at The Flying Squirrel Pub, who will be providing delicious bites from their menu along with beer and wine for the evening. If you haven’t visited The Flying Squirrel before, prepare to be delighted by their fresh flavors, creative offerings, and lively atmosphere.”We can’t wait to welcome you to what so many of our guests fondly call their ‘happy place.'”
Ample parking is available on site for this event. Upon arrival, enter through the greenhouse doors on the right-hand side.
Pisgah Legal’s Justice Forum will be held at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in downtown Asheville on Thursday, October 23rd. There will be a ticketed, pre-event reception at 5:30 pm followed by the free Justice Forum at 7:00 pm. There will be an option for live-streaming for those that prefer to join virtually and there will be several Regional Watch Parties in communities across WNC. Ticket sales and registration will be available August 13, 2025.
Tours on the last Wednesday of the month, May through October: May 28, June 25, July 30, August 27, September 24, October 29
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
This is an in-person program, held at The Learning Garden. Visit and Learn!
Visit informally Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (no docents or tours)
Docents and Presenters: Extension Master Gardener volunteers working in the garden.
Program Description: On the last Wednesday of the month from May to October you can join a more formal tour and be led through the gardens by a master gardener docent as you watch the other gardeners caring for the plants. See beautiful and interesting plants, delicious vegetables, native plants for beauty and pollinator interest.
The tours start at 10:00 a.m. and should last approximately an hour. The tours will begin outside the front door of the Buncombe County Extension Office.
Wear appropriate attire (hat, sunglasses and sturdy shoes and bring some water) as this event will be held outside. In the event of steady rain in West Asheville, the workday and the tour will be canceled.
The tour is free and registration is not necessary.
If you have questions, call 828-255-5522.
NOTE: The Learning Garden is open for informal visits Monday through Friday throughout the year, but if you visit on a Wednesday, during the growing season, you can meet the Master Gardeners working in the gardens and ask questions about the plants and their care. We invite you to visit often, observe the gardens, and ask questions as the Master Gardeners tend the gardens through the growing season. If you have questions, call 828-255-5522.
An in-person talk/demo.
Session 1: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.*
Session 2: 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.*
* New this year, Saturday Seminars are being offered twice on the same day. The content of both sessions will be the same. Select the session that best fits your schedule
Location: 49 Mt Carmel Road, Asheville, NC 28806
Program: Dividing and Repotting Houseplants
Presenters – Marilyn Lonon & Nancy Humphries, Extension Master GardenerSMVolunteers
Description: Are your houseplants starting to look tired, leggy and ready for a new home? Now is the perfect time to repot or divide them to keep them healthy and thriving! Join Marilyn Lonon and Nancy Humphries, Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteers, who together bring over 100 years of houseplant know-how. They’ll guide you through trimming, dividing, and repotting your plants.
This is a hands-on workshop—bring your houseplants and the pots you’d like to use. Potting soil will be provided. It’s a great time to start new plants for holiday gifts, and you may even go home with an extra plant or two!
* New this year, Saturday Seminars are being offered twice on the same day. The content of both sessions will be the same. Select the session that best fits your schedule.
Registration: The workshop is free but registration using Eventbrite is required. Please register at the link provided
If you encounter problems registering or have questions, call 828-255-5522.
Award-winning garden blogger, Lisa Wagner, encourages creative ways to plan, record, and reflect on your journeys through the seasons in your garden and landscape.
An in-person talk/demo.
Session 2: 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.*
Location: 49 Mt Carmel Road, Asheville, NC 28806
Program: Dividing and Repotting Houseplants
Presenters – Marilyn Lonon & Nancy Humphries, Extension Master GardenerSMVolunteers
Description: Are your houseplants starting to look tired, leggy and ready for a new home? Now is the perfect time to repot or divide them to keep them healthy and thriving! Join Marilyn Lonon and Nancy Humphries, Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteers, who together bring over 100 years of houseplant know-how. They’ll guide you through trimming, dividing, and repotting your plants.
This is a hands-on workshop—bring your houseplants and the pots you’d like to use. Potting soil will be provided. It’s a great time to start new plants for holiday gifts, and you may even go home with an extra plant or two!
Registration: The workshop is free but registration using Eventbrite is required. Please register at the link provided.
If you encounter problems registering or have questions, call 828-255-5522.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Get ready for holiday magic at Ross Farm, our sweet 22-greenhouse winter wonderland!
Join us for the Holiday Farm Market on November 22, 2025 (12-4pm) presented by Ross Farm and Appalachian Standard.
~Local craft vendors (Pottery, baking, and plants!!)
~Seasonal treats with a dessert food truck AND hot dogs
~Caroling & community sing-a-long (Get ready for Last Christmas 4.0!)
~Cozy holiday vibes
Find unique gifts, support local artisans, and celebrate the season with your neighbors amidst the stunning beauty that is Ross Farm.
~Ross Farm | 91 Holbrook Rd, Candler, NC 28715
Mark your calendars – this is THE place to be for Appalachian holiday cheer!
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.
Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.
Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.
Join us for an evening of connection, collaboration, and creativity! Meet local actors, directors, and producers, share stories, and discover you next great project.
Free Headshots — 6:00 to 7:00 PM
Silent Auction featuring selected local artworks
Screening of 3 International Award-winning 48HFP Shorts — 7:00 to 8:00 PM
Special DJ Set & Appearance by “Mirror Man” — 8:00 to 9:00 pm
Suggested Contribution: $10