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.
Calling all young storytellers ages 8-13!
Gallery Tales is a 6-week program where kids explore various art pieces in the gallery to spark their imaginations and create incredible stories. Each week, participants will engage in interactive writing lessons, write unique tales, and gain the skills and confidence to become published authors. At the end of the program, every young writer will leave with their very own professionally published book and the opportunity to share their work and accomplishments with an audience of family and friends at a special Kids Open Mic Showcase!
Pricing Tiers:
Standard Tier: $397 (Includes all program materials, publishing, and showcase support)
Supporter Tier: $500 (Covers program materials, publishing, showcase support, and helps provide scholarships for other young writers)
Scholarship Option: Available to ensure every child has the opportunity to participate.
Limited spots are available for this unique program that celebrates art, and creativity, and inspires young writers to shine. Sign up today!
About the Gallery Tales Instructor:
Kate Wargo is a passionate educator with a decade of experience teaching in elementary classrooms. Holding a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, she brings her expertise in child development and creative learning to every program she designs. Kate is deeply committed to nurturing the whole child, blending art, writing, and community to create meaningful and transformative experiences. As an advocate for bringing the soul and love back into writing and supporting children’s mental health and well-being, she strives to create safe and inspiring spaces where they can discover their voices and shine as confident, creative storytellers.
During this event, the resident artists at Grovewood Village in Asheville will open up their studios to the public, allowing visitors to gain insight into their creative process and view their most recent works. This is a free, self-guided, explore-at-your-own-pace tour.
Additionally, these creatives will have pieces available for purchase at the adjacent Grovewood Gallery, which is offering a 10% discount on nearly all items and complimentary libations from Metro Wines.
Grovewood Village is home to eight working artist studios and a yoga studio, located in a historic building originally constructed for the weaving operations of Biltmore Industries. Once a key player in the Appalachian Craft Revival of the early 20th century, Biltmore Industries was renowned for producing the celebrated Biltmore Handwoven Homespun. Today, these same workshops are alive with creativity, as resident artists craft jewelry, pottery, sculpture, and more, honoring the legacy of craftsmanship that began here over a century ago.
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Dad Jokes Standup Comedy Picture Show
Everyone loves dads doing jokes! Lucky for you these are professional comedians giving you more laughs than groans. Comics on the show do standup with pictures to illustrate their sets!!
Wednesday June 11, 7:30-9p in The Orange Peel’s comedy basement. PULP is a bourbon speakeasy (400+ varieties) located under the iconic stage. No food is served but we do have free snacks while they last and outside food is permitted (no drinks of any kind).
$17 tickets available at door or The Orange Peel’s website
Host is Hilliary Begley voted repeatedly Asheville’s Favorite comic in the Mountain Xpress. Film debut in the Netflix original Dumplin’ as Aunt Lucy, or “Jennifer Anniston’s fat sister,” and Austin Film Festival winning movie When We Last Spoke with Cloris Leachman, now streaming on Amazon Prime.
✍️ For young writers ages 8–13
Join us in celebration of the Summer Solstice with an evening of bold, imaginative storytelling!
We’ll begin with a short introduction to tall tales—a playful style of story where characters are bigger than life, the details are wildly exaggerated, and nothing is too impossible to imagine. Think tornado-taming, moon-jumping, pancake-stacking kind of adventures.
Then, kids will explore the gallery to find a piece of art that sparks their own tall tale. With notebooks in hand, they’ll write their stories and return for a joyful story-sharing circle to close the night.
📓 Please bring a notebook or journal to write in!
🎟️ Free event, space is limited NO NEED TO RSVP— just arrive!
Nourish your body, mind, and soul by experiencing a variety of offerings to bring balance and peace to your life during these times. Ample free time allows participants to nap, hike around the lake, journal, or explore Kanuga. Led by Chantal McKinney, a life-long seeker of the Divine. She is a writer, speaker, entrepreneur, coach, consultant, practitioner of community development, and former church planter who walks among the two worlds of faith and spirituality.
Wednesday June 25, 2025.
7:30p-9:30p, doors at 6:30p
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge, 103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $17 (available at door or The Orange Peel’s website)
These shows sellout!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley from Netflix & Amazon Prime!
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!!
Free snacks while availability lasts! You may bring your own food in (no drinks)!
Winners from 3/27 & 5/14 Contestants: Cayla Clark, Darren Harper, Sarah Love, Mackenzie Manent, Foster & Jordan Ballard
Celebrate the Full Moon by immersing yourself with the healing vibrations of a Sound Bath! The full moon offers a boost in healing to our energy field.
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 6:15 PM, doors close promptly at 6:30 PM.
This session is being offered on a Sliding Scale of $10-$20.
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.
The North Carolina Writers Network-West and The Brandy Bar + Cocktails presents H.R. (RANDY) SPENCER &
RICHARD ALLEN TAYLOR
as next in their series
“In the Company of Writers.”
The program offers a series of personal and conversational dialogues featuring guest writers/poets followed by an open mic forum. These inspirational gatherings will elucidate and entertain those attending. The guest author speaks from 7-8 PM with an open mic from 8 -9 PM. Sign-ups for the open mic will be located at the entrance to the reading.
For more info visit: https://www.facebook.com/TheBrandyBar/events
Beach Babes Standup Comedy Show
The Orange Peel
July 11, 8p-9:30pm
$18
Beach vibes in the mountain! Standup Comedy of Roman Fraden, featuring Cayla Clark, Zandra Johnson & Makenzie Manent. Guest spot by the Leah Garth. Hosted by Hilliary Begley
Beach Babes Standup Comedy Show brings the vibes to the mountains in the heart of downtown Asheville! Roman Fraden his not for the faint of heart. 18+
Roman is a Los Angeles-based comedian and a regular performer at classic Hollywood venues including The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory, and The Hollywood Improv. He has trained with Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Theatre, performed in various ensemble casts in film and on stage, and has opened for Mark Normand, Margaret Cho, and Patton Oswald. His one man show ‘Back In The Closet’ made it’s world premiere at Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2018. He currently is living in Asheville while still performing everywhere.
Host Hilliary Begley from NETFLIX & AMAZON PRIME, this beach babe will keep you laughing.
Featuring Cayla Clark from BLIND DATELIVE, who is very pregnant on this show but still one of the funniest people around (check out her famous instagram).
Also featuring comedy favorites Zandra Johnson & Makenzie Manent, with a guest spot by the always zany Leah Garth.
Shift into your parasympathetic nervous system with a healing Sound Bath! This shift helps the body lower your heart rate, relax muscles, and initiate healing processes.
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 sliding scale of $10-20.
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.
THURSDAY JULY 31, 7:30Pm at The Orange Peel PULP
ENJOY standup comedy in a whole new way with picture and videos to go along with the fun in a bourbon bar comedy club! Hosted by Hilliary Begley from Netflix & Prime Video. Headliner Jordan Julius, winner of Slice Standup Comedy Contest. Featuring hot regional comics Sarah Love, Jason Reel & Lois Adjevi
FREE SNACKS, outside food ok!
Get you tix now, these shows sell out!
In a world of noise, give yourself the gift of stillness. Realign your nervous system and rest in the sanctuary of peace.
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 1:00 PM, doors close promptly at 1:15 PM.
This Sound Bath is offered on a sliding scale of $10-20
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 from the upper parking lot to the building entrance.
The North Carolina Writers Network and The Brandy Bar + Cocktails present
JENNIFER McGAHA as next in their series “In the Company of Writers”
The program offers a series of personal and conversational dialogues featuring guest writers/poets, followed by an open-mic forum. These inspirational gatherings will both enlighten and entertain those in attendance. The guest author speaks from 7-8 PM with an open mic from 8 -9 PM. The original music of John Longbottom welcomes you, continues during intermission, and closes the evening. Sign-up for the open mic sheet is posted at the entry.
Jennifer McGaha is the author of three works of creative nonfiction, including The Joy Document, a collection of fifty essays celebrating midlife, Flat Broke with Two Goats, a 2018 OverDrive Big Library Read, and Bushwhacking: How to Get Lost in the Woods and Write Your Way Out, a Thomas Wolfe Memorial Literary Award finalist. Her work has also appeared in many magazines and literary journals including Image, The Huffington Post, The New Pioneer, Lumina, PANK, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Brevity, Bitter Southerner, Crab Creek Review, River Teeth, and others. An Appalachian native, Jennifer lives in a wooded North Carolina hollow with her husband, two cats, four unruly dogs, eight relatively tame dairy goats, and an ever-changing number of chickens
Co-sponsored by the North Carolina Writers Network and The Brandy Bar + Cocktails, the program, “In the Company of Writers” is featured the 2nd Wednesday of each month. https://www.facebook.com/events/581466841671943
Join us at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center (MHCREC) for our annual Field Day. Since 1949, our station has been a hub of agricultural innovation, with the added addition of Field Day being a long-standing tradition. This year’s event promises an engaging, informative, and hands-on look at the latest in horticultural research and extension activities.
Field Day 2025 will feature a comprehensive showcase of ongoing research programs across a variety of crops such as apples, tomatoes, nursery plants, and other specialty crops. In addition to the featured research, the event will highlight various other projects and initiatives that reflect the breadth of work being done here at MHCREC.
Come for the whole day or drop in for part of it — your choice! Admission is free.
Enjoy a complimentary lunch on us! And of course, don’t miss the chance to make your own fresh tomato sandwich right in the field!
We look forward to welcoming growers, researchers, students, and community members alike for a day of learning, networking, and celebration of agricultural innovation.
The first annual Bodhi Fest, a Buddhist Arts and Film Festival at Asheville Community Theatre on August 16th, 2025 will be a day of illumination as we explore the gladdening qualities of the human spirit ranging from sweet solitude to ecstatic joy. The program will consist of Buddhist films + Q&A, shorts, a dance workshop, a songwriting workshop, musical performances and more. Crafts, art and food from Buddhist sanghas, artists and local vendors will be shared in the front lobby during the festival.
Enjoy an event of immersion in compassionate-wisdom activities that provoke insight and lift the spirit.
Thursday – August 21 – 7-9pm – WNC Songwriter Sessions returns with Karen Cohen, Just Rick, and Todd Hoke. An evening of original songs in the natural acoustics and listening room atmosphere of the beautiful and historic Brandy Bar + Cocktails.
Hidyho Neighbors! Another solid trio of swellegant songwriters will be sharing their lyrical and musical offerings for our August session at the coolest bar in all Hendo. Karen Cohen, Just Rick, and Todd Hoke will entertain you with their tales and tunes. Delicious cocktails + handcrafted songs + friendly folks = time well spent. Join us!
Karen Cohen has honed her own unique finger-style guitar for over 5 decades. Her current passion is writing songs that combine authenticity, emotion, and imagery with beautiful melody. Karen just arrived on the WNC and Upstate SC scene 6 months ago and is generating a lot of excitement at local open mics and songwriter showcases.
Just Rick (aka Rick Reles) is a guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist based in Hendersonville, North Carolina. A lifelong musician and singer-songwriter inspired by the roots of American rock music. He draws from country, blues, bluegrass, rockabilly, and classic rock to craft his growing catalog of original songs. From early bands like Green Steam and Full House to Identity Crisis and IC3, Rick has been a gigging musician. Today he plays solo as well as in Two Step Too and The Right Fit.
Todd Hoke tried therapy but that didn’t work out so he took up the guitar instead and, as of this printing, has remained mostly unincarcerated (a fact his mother loudly boasts about every time her bowling league gathers at the pool hall to play poker and whittle).
With hosts Annie Wenz and Todd Hoke. For more info visit: [email protected]
We have another standup comedy contest, coming up on Thursday August 21! Come out for the fun as you pick your favorite comic of the night!! Audiences love these shows and tickets go fast!
___________________________________
The Slice of Life Comedy Asheville Fall/Winter Standup Contest Series: ROUND 1
Thursday August 21, 7:30p-9:30p, doors at 6:30p
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge
103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $17 (available at door or The Orange Peel website)
These shows sellout!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley from Netflix & Amazon Prime!
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!!
Free snacks while availability lasts! You may bring your own food in (no drinks)!
How it Works:
Comics on the show will do approximately 3-1/2m of comedy. This show’s 3 top comics will be brought back with other show winners to compete in our pageant finale, date TBD. Audience votes through paper ballots to be picked up and counted at end of show, winner will be announced.
Want to compete?
These spots go fast! There is no cost to performing comics. Comics should have 3-5m of material and be prepared for additional material in the event of a tie-breaker performance. Winners will be compensated for the night and move on to the finale.
Go to SliceofLifeComedy.com for more information. Contact Michele with any questions, or to sign up at [email protected]
Immerse yourself in the healing power of sound. This restorative Sound Bath is designed to clear energetic blocks, uplift your spirit, and elevate your vibration. Let the soothing frequencies of crystal bowls and sacred tones guide you into deep relaxation, alignment, and renewal. Step into your highest frequency—peace, clarity, and inner radiance await.
Join your host Kristin Hillegas, for a one-hour Serenity Sound Bath and experience a deeply immersive, full-body sound and vibrational experience.
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 6:15 PM, doors close promptly at 6:30 PM.
This service is on a sliding scale of $10-20
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 from the upper parking lot to the building entrance.
WED 8/10/25 – 7-9 PM – The North Carolina Writers Network and The Brandy Bar + Cocktails present as next in their series “In the Company of Writers.” Kate Crawford
The program offers a series of personal and conversational dialogues featuring guest writers/poets, followed by an open mic forum. These inspirational gatherings will elucidate and entertain those attending. The guest author speaks from 7-8 PM with an open mic from 8 -9 PM. The Chicago blues music of “John Longbottom” welcomes you, continues during intermission, and closes the evening. You are welcome to sign up for the open mic with the sign-up sheet at the entrance.
Katherine Scott Crawford is the award-winning author of The Miniaturist’s Assistant and Keowee Valley. A former backpacking guide, adjunct professor, and recovering academic, her newspaper column appeared weekly across the country and abroad, including in USA Today, The Detroit Free Press, The Herald Scotland, and more. Winner of a North Carolina Arts Award in fiction, she holds an MFA in Writing from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. She’d rather be in the woods with her dog than anywhere else, enjoys curious people, adventure, and snow, and believes historical fiction the best way to time travel. An eleventh-generation Southerner, she directs writing retreats at a remote mountain lodge near Brevard, North Carolina, where she lives with her family.
For more info visit: https://www.facebook.com/TheBrandyBar/events
Dig into Bullington Gardens’ Fall Plant Sale! Grab trees, shrubs, perennials, natives, and seasonal plants to spruce up your yard. Don’t let your garden be the only one on the block still growing last year’s weeds—join us this fall September 12-13, 9am-4pm.
Planning for the future can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Join us for a FREE WORKSHOP designed to help seniors and their families navigate the often-complex process of downsizing, relocating, and preparing for what’s next.
This event, held at the East Asheville Public Library, will provide guidance from professionals on a variety of topics to help make your next transition smooth and stress-free.
Refreshments will be provided!
Workshop Highlights
Financial Guidance from a Lender: Learn how lenders utilize a combination of your retirement income and assets to qualify you for a mortgage.
Legal Planning with an Estate Attorney: Get expert advice on key legal issues, including how to organize assets, taxes, and your beneficiary structure, as well as ensure the instructions for your death or medical circumstance are followed.
Practical Moving Tips from a Realtor: You are not alone! See how a Realtor can act as your personal “project manager” to make the transition stress-free.
Don’t miss this opportunity to get your questions answered by experts in the field. There will be a time for Q & A at the end! If you have questions that you would like addressed, include them in the appropriate area as your register.
This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited. Register to secure your spot.
Retreat leader, educator and Jungian psychotherapist Diana McKendree leads a discussion exploring the world of dreamwork and how we might better understand our dreams. Part of Kanuga’s Lunch & Learn series. The Thursday, September 18 event begins with a forest bathing nature walk (weather permitting) at 10 a.m. McKendree’s “What Did You Dream Last Night?” discussion begins at 11 a.m., followed by a buffet lunch in Kanuga’s dining hall. Bring a recent dream, notebook and pen. Registration and more info at kanuga.org/events.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, we saw the heart of the mountains. Neighbors became lifelines, and communities across the region rose together.
One year later, journalists from across the state are coming together to honor that resilience through the power of story.
Join us for an evening of stories and conversations about how we’ve helped one another, what we’ve lost, and what we’ve learned as our region continues to recover.
NC Local, in partnership with UNC Asheville and newsrooms across the state, is hosting this evening of connection and storytelling as part of UNC Asheville’s Post-Helene Symposium: “Remembering, Rebuilding and Reimagining.”
This free event is open to the public, but we ask you to register.
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
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
Pumpkin Fest is a fun, family friendly and fantastic artistic event or great date night with 18 beautiful artist-designed lighted carved pumpkin displays on a newly-paved short walking trail. The event includes talented local musicians, food trucks and coffee house, games, storytelling, face painting, white squirrel scavenger hunt, games, dress ups, and the Silvermont historic mansion and second floor museum open for tours.
Admission $7 per person (ages 13 and over), $5 ages 3-12, and 2 and under free. We accept cards, cash or check with ID.
Onsite parking cost is $5 per car (cash preferred). Free parking is available offsite on nearby streets and Comporium and church parking lots 1 block away. Handicap sticker- free parking onsite.
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
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
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.