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.
STANDING ROOM ONLY
CHIKOMO MARIMBA
Chikomo Marimba is a lively and extremely danceable world percussion ensemble based in Asheville, NC. They have been playing around the southeast for over a decade, and have become known for their high energy, tight arrangements, infectiously joyful grooves, and unique sound.
Chikomo Marimba offers a blend of traditional tunes from Zimbabwe interspersed with African-inspired dance music, played on large hand-hewn wooden marimbas and accompanied by drum kit and percussion. Their polyrhythmic sounds and irresistible grooves get people of all ages shaking their bodies!
DJ Oso Rey & DJ Molly Parti
Get ready to dance into the spotlight because Asheville Junior Theater (AJT) –
School of Dance is excited to announce the grand opening its dance school. Registration
for the upcoming Fall 2024-Spring 2025 season is now open! With a commitment to igniting
artistic passion and fostering unparalleled talent, AJT School of Dance is your ticket to an
electrifying dance experience like no other.
AJT School of Dance is more than just a dance studio; it’s a gateway to a transformative dance
experience. With a focus on fostering self-confidence, promoting integrity, and nurturing a
genuine passion for dance, our dedicated instructors are committed to guiding each student on
a path of artistic discovery and self-expression.
Registration for the Fall 2024-Spring 2025 season at Asheville Junior Theater – School of Dance
is now open! Don’t miss your chance to be part of something extraordinary. Classes are offered
for ages 4-adult.
For more information on class offerings and registration, visit
www.ashevillejuniortheater.com/dance or contact [email protected].
Unique classes offered: Aerial Arts, Tricks and Stunts, Musical Theater, Performance Crew–
in addition to all the various technique classes of Jazz, Tap, Ballet/Lyrical, Hip Hop and more!

Saturdays from June 15-August 10, Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center’s Outdoor Pool
10-10:50am .:. Free for Ages 60+ and $3 for Ages 18-59
B.A.L.L. (Be Active Live Longer) gentle water aerobics incorporate effective strategies to improve cardio fitness, build strength, boost mood, and ease joint pain.
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.

Saturdays from June 15-August 10, Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center’s Outdoor Pool
10-10:50am .:. Free for Ages 60+ and $3 for Ages 18-59
B.A.L.L. (Be Active Live Longer) gentle water aerobics incorporate effective strategies to improve cardio fitness, build strength, boost mood, and ease joint pain.
A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen JR. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen JR. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart!
Frozen JR. is a 60 minute version of the Broadway hit, perfect for audiences of all ages.
Asheville Junior Theater Presents Frozen JR. at Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, Asheville, NC
A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen JR. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen JR. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart!
Frozen JR. is a 60 minute version of the Broadway hit, perfect for audiences of all ages.
Event Details: - Title: Frozen JR. - Date: June 15th & 16th 2024 - Time: 2pm and 6pm - Venue: Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, Asheville, North Carolina For ticket information and more details visit https://www.worthamarts.org/events/frozen-jr/
Old Farmer’s Ball hosts family dances and waltzes at the Harvest House Community Center.
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
The Third Annual Asheville Ideas Fest is June 17-20, 2024.
When the inaugural Asheville Ideas Fest launched in June 2022, it was a watershed moment when 450 friends from around the country came together with world-class thinkers and doers to engage in meaningful discussions. The program evolved in 2023, and now 2024 promises to be an even more impactful gathering.
Asheville Ideas Fest is for curious citizens who want to engage with other deep thinkers on topics that matter. You may find your deeply held beliefs challenged on these important topics, and we invite you to lean into those moments, approaching them with an open mind and genuine curiosity.
—
This year will include three core themes:
The Thriving American City: Revitalizing Communities through Connection and Growth
In an era of rapid urbanization and evolving societal needs, we will examine strategies that encourage human connection and promote sustainable growth, creating a blueprint for thriving cities. Join us for an engaging day of panel discussions and intensive workshops that evaluate the essential elements of revitalizing American cities and communities.
The Edges of the Unknown: Seeking Enlightenment through Exploration
Ideas Fest panelists and speakers will contemplate the mysteries of space, depths of the ocean, and what lies beyond our current scope of understanding. Using a lens of exploration and curiosity, we will navigate uncharted physical and spiritual territories as we seek to unlock secrets that lie at the edges of the unknown. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and challenged in this unique journey of discovery.
House of Cards or Hallowed Halls: Our Polarized Union and the Future of Democracy
Dive into the heart of contemporary political discourse with Ideas Fest. We will examine the polarized landscape of our union and explore the critical challenges facing democracy today. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the structural, cultural, and societal factors shaping the future of our democratic institutions.
—
In addition to dynamic panel discussions with audience Q&A, afternoon workshops with panel speakers provide further opportunities to explore the themes and develop your ideas. Our program consists of a phenomenal lineup of speakers and a laser focus on generating civil discourse on topics that ignite conversations.

Join us at the Black Mountain YMCA to learn ways to improve joint mobility for more effective workouts and how to stretch for post workout recovery!
Dogwood Health Trust and Affiliated Monitors, Inc. (Affiliated Monitors) announce the schedule for six independent monitor community meetings to be held in June. The
newly selected Independent Monitor (IM) is responsible for overseeing HCA Healthcare’s compliance with its commitments set forth in the purchase agreement for Mission Health
System.
The upcoming community meetings are part of the expanded scope of work for the IM, with increased community engagement and education. The updated Independent Monitor
website and registration information will be available on June 3.
During the community meetings, Affiliated Monitors will introduce their team to the community,
review HCA’s remaining commitments under the APA, provide an overview of how independent
monitoring works within the constraints of the established APA, and update the communities
about the steps Affiliated Monitors has taken to date. In addition, the public meetings will
provide attendees an opportunity to share information with the new IM and ask questions about
the process. Concerns which fall outside of the role of the IM will be referred by Affiliated
Monitors to an appropriate party.
About Community Meetings
This June, the Independent Monitor will host Community Meetings where individuals can hear about the Independent Monitor’s work and ask questions of the Independent Monitor. The Independent Monitor urges interested individuals to register to attend one of the scheduled Community Meetings and to submit any questions or comments in advance when you register here.
To learn more about this year’s Community Meetings, view this Press Release.
To see a schedule of this year’s Community Meetings, view the schedule below.
To register to attend a Community Meeting and/or to submit a question or comment for the Community Meetings, click here.
In addition, individuals can attend any of the Community Meetings virtually. To attend a Community Meeting virtually, you must register using the link associated with the specific meeting below that you would like to attend virtually.
The format for each meeting is designed to both educate community members on the monitoring
process and to gather input pertaining to each HCA facility within their community. As room
capacities will be limited; Affiliated Monitors has requested that attendees pre-register for their
selected location beginning June 3, using the updated Independent Monitor website. Details
about virtual viewing options will also be made available at that time to those who are unable to
attend.
Attendees, and those who are unable to attend, will be able to submit questions in advance via
the website, beginning June 3. Answers will be grouped by topic and prioritized based on
All meetings begin at 5:30p.m. and doors will open 30 minutes before the scheduled meeting.
Locations, dates, and times of the public meetings are listed below:
McDowell County Meeting (Mission Hospital McDowell)
Monday, June 10 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Marion Community Building, 191 N Main St, Marion, NC
Mitchell/Yancey Counties Meeting (Blue Ridge Regional Hospital)
Tuesday, June 11 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)Cross Street Commerce Center, 31 Cross St #215, Spruce Pine, NC
Buncombe County Meeting (Mission Hospital)
Wednesday, June 12 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Ferguson Auditorium at A-B Tech, Fernihurst Dr, Asheville, NC
Transylvania County Meeting (Transylvania Regional Hospital)
Monday, June 17 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Transylvania County Library, 212 Gaston St. Brevard, NC
Highlands/Cashiers Meeting (Highlands-Cashiers Hospital)
Tuesday, June 18 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Final location coming soon.
Macon County Meeting (Angel Medical Center)
Thursday, June 20 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Robert C. Carpenter Room, Macon County Community Facilities Building
1288 Georgia Rd, Franklin, NC
Affiliated Monitors, Inc. is a Boston-based company with 20 years of independent monitoring
experience in healthcare, with an emphasis in health care regulation, consumer protection, antitrust, and fraud and abuse.
The independent monitor was selected in April 2024 by Dogwood Health Trust to monitor HCA Healthcare, Inc.’s remaining obligations under the Asset Purchase
Agreement.
Dogwood Health Trust is a private foundation based in Asheville, North Carolina with the sole
purpose of dramatically improving the health and wellbeing of all people and communities of 18
counties and the Qualla Boundary in Western North Carolina. Dogwood Health Trust focuses on
innovative and equitable ways to address the many factors that contribute to overall health and
wellbeing, with a focus on housing, education, economic opportunity, and health and wellness.
Dogwood Health Trust works to create a Western North Carolina where every generation can
live, learn, earn and thrive, with dignity and opportunity for all, no exceptions. To learn more,
please visit www.dht.org.
Dogwood Health Trust and Affiliated Monitors, Inc. (Affiliated Monitors) announce the schedule for six independent monitor community meetings to be held in June. The
newly selected Independent Monitor (IM) is responsible for overseeing HCA Healthcare’s compliance with its commitments set forth in the purchase agreement for Mission Health
System.
The upcoming community meetings are part of the expanded scope of work for the IM, with increased community engagement and education. The updated Independent Monitor
website and registration information will be available on June 3.
During the community meetings, Affiliated Monitors will introduce their team to the community,
review HCA’s remaining commitments under the APA, provide an overview of how independent
monitoring works within the constraints of the established APA, and update the communities
about the steps Affiliated Monitors has taken to date. In addition, the public meetings will
provide attendees an opportunity to share information with the new IM and ask questions about
the process. Concerns which fall outside of the role of the IM will be referred by Affiliated
Monitors to an appropriate party.
About Community Meetings
This June, the Independent Monitor will host Community Meetings where individuals can hear about the Independent Monitor’s work and ask questions of the Independent Monitor. The Independent Monitor urges interested individuals to register to attend one of the scheduled Community Meetings and to submit any questions or comments in advance when you register here.
To learn more about this year’s Community Meetings, view this Press Release.
To see a schedule of this year’s Community Meetings, view the schedule below.
To register to attend a Community Meeting and/or to submit a question or comment for the Community Meetings, click here.
In addition, individuals can attend any of the Community Meetings virtually. To attend a Community Meeting virtually, you must register using the link associated with the specific meeting below that you would like to attend virtually.
The format for each meeting is designed to both educate community members on the monitoring
process and to gather input pertaining to each HCA facility within their community. As room
capacities will be limited; Affiliated Monitors has requested that attendees pre-register for their
selected location beginning June 3, using the updated Independent Monitor website. Details
about virtual viewing options will also be made available at that time to those who are unable to
attend.
Attendees, and those who are unable to attend, will be able to submit questions in advance via
the website, beginning June 3. Answers will be grouped by topic and prioritized based on
All meetings begin at 5:30p.m. and doors will open 30 minutes before the scheduled meeting.
Locations, dates, and times of the public meetings are listed below:
McDowell County Meeting (Mission Hospital McDowell)
Monday, June 10 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Marion Community Building, 191 N Main St, Marion, NC
Mitchell/Yancey Counties Meeting (Blue Ridge Regional Hospital)
Tuesday, June 11 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)Cross Street Commerce Center, 31 Cross St #215, Spruce Pine, NC
Buncombe County Meeting (Mission Hospital)
Wednesday, June 12 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Ferguson Auditorium at A-B Tech, Fernihurst Dr, Asheville, NC
Transylvania County Meeting (Transylvania Regional Hospital)
Monday, June 17 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Transylvania County Library, 212 Gaston St. Brevard, NC
Highlands/Cashiers Meeting (Highlands-Cashiers Hospital)
Tuesday, June 18 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Final location coming soon.
Macon County Meeting (Angel Medical Center)
Thursday, June 20 (5:30 – 7:00 p.m.)
Robert C. Carpenter Room, Macon County Community Facilities Building
1288 Georgia Rd, Franklin, NC
Affiliated Monitors, Inc. is a Boston-based company with 20 years of independent monitoring
experience in healthcare, with an emphasis in health care regulation, consumer protection, antitrust, and fraud and abuse.
The independent monitor was selected in April 2024 by Dogwood Health Trust to monitor HCA Healthcare, Inc.’s remaining obligations under the Asset Purchase
Agreement.
Dogwood Health Trust is a private foundation based in Asheville, North Carolina with the sole
purpose of dramatically improving the health and wellbeing of all people and communities of 18
counties and the Qualla Boundary in Western North Carolina. Dogwood Health Trust focuses on
innovative and equitable ways to address the many factors that contribute to overall health and
wellbeing, with a focus on housing, education, economic opportunity, and health and wellness.
Dogwood Health Trust works to create a Western North Carolina where every generation can
live, learn, earn and thrive, with dignity and opportunity for all, no exceptions. To learn more,
please visit www.dht.org.
Welcome to our weekly community contra dance in West Asheville! The Monday Night Dance has been around for decades, and we are carrying the torch forward! We are a loving, kind, and safe dance community and highly encourage masking during the dance. No derogatory comments in relation to masking will be tolerated! We encourage non-maskers to mask while partnering with a dancer wearing a mask, or to at least ask if the person would like them to mask while they dance with them.
Practicalities
Time: Contra dancing 8:15–10:30pm, with a beginner lesson starting at 7:45 and a waltz session ending the evening.
Location: St. George’s Center for Art and Spirit, 1 School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806
Cost: $12–$45 sliding scale, CASH ONLY. Please pay as much as you can afford to cover the cost of the wonderful live music, the caller, sound person, rent, and other expenses! ATMs are available at banks on Patton Ave., as well as cash back options at local gas stations and grocery stores.
Requirements: Face masks and sign-in agreeing to the dance’s Safety Guidelines.
Please enter through the front red doors to the sanctuary. Extra parking available in the lots between Moore’s Foot and Ankle and St. George’s (please avoid parking in front of their practice.) This is a scent-free dance. Please bring your own water and water bottle. Beginners are encouraged to attend! Beginner-friendly dances start the contra dancing in lieu of a lesson.
Community Focus
The Monday Night Dance is more than just a dance; the community is deeply rooted. Folks are welcome to sell their wares, like jewelry, dance shoes, dance clothes, pottery, etc. They are also welcome to leave business cards and help wanted or work needed ads. Additionally, the Take Some Leave Some Closet is a new feature of the MND. You can take any clothes, food, produce, feminine products or first aid supplies that we have, and as you are able you can also leave some to replenish. Private times to receive from the closet can also be arranged during the week depending on to the dance organizer’s availability.
Safety
We emphasize safety here at the MND. Mask wearing is strongly encouraged, and courtesy to those choosing to mask is required. No discrimination to those wearing masks will be tolerated! In addition, this is a family and LGBTQ-friendly dance and a safe event for ALL races, ethnicities, genders, ages, shapes, and sizes. Accordingly, no discrimination, inappropriate sexually predatory behavior, racist or discriminatory comments, bullying, or verbal or physical abuse of ANY kind will be tolerated. See our Safety Guidelines for more info.
Volunteers and Donations
Ours is a dance built on volunteerism, and we need your help to survive! Please consider volunteering or becoming a patron by giving a monetary gift. Opening, door and closing help are some of the volunteer jobs available. Those completing their entire shift dance free! Email [email protected] for more info and to sign up.
Finally, please follow, like and join us on Facebook!
Thanks so much and see you on the dance floor!
The Third Annual Asheville Ideas Fest is June 17-20, 2024.
When the inaugural Asheville Ideas Fest launched in June 2022, it was a watershed moment when 450 friends from around the country came together with world-class thinkers and doers to engage in meaningful discussions. The program evolved in 2023, and now 2024 promises to be an even more impactful gathering.
Asheville Ideas Fest is for curious citizens who want to engage with other deep thinkers on topics that matter. You may find your deeply held beliefs challenged on these important topics, and we invite you to lean into those moments, approaching them with an open mind and genuine curiosity.
—
This year will include three core themes:
The Thriving American City: Revitalizing Communities through Connection and Growth
In an era of rapid urbanization and evolving societal needs, we will examine strategies that encourage human connection and promote sustainable growth, creating a blueprint for thriving cities. Join us for an engaging day of panel discussions and intensive workshops that evaluate the essential elements of revitalizing American cities and communities.
The Edges of the Unknown: Seeking Enlightenment through Exploration
Ideas Fest panelists and speakers will contemplate the mysteries of space, depths of the ocean, and what lies beyond our current scope of understanding. Using a lens of exploration and curiosity, we will navigate uncharted physical and spiritual territories as we seek to unlock secrets that lie at the edges of the unknown. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and challenged in this unique journey of discovery.
House of Cards or Hallowed Halls: Our Polarized Union and the Future of Democracy
Dive into the heart of contemporary political discourse with Ideas Fest. We will examine the polarized landscape of our union and explore the critical challenges facing democracy today. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the structural, cultural, and societal factors shaping the future of our democratic institutions.
—
In addition to dynamic panel discussions with audience Q&A, afternoon workshops with panel speakers provide further opportunities to explore the themes and develop your ideas. Our program consists of a phenomenal lineup of speakers and a laser focus on generating civil discourse on topics that ignite conversations.

The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, Hatch Innovation Hub, Van Winkle Law Firm, BRCC Small Business Center, Southern Appalachian Brewery and Big Frog Custom T-Shirts have partnered to present this small business opportunity.Pitch Parties are designed to offer entrepreneurs an opportunity to pitch ideas for a new business, expansions, and reorganization. Each participant will be allowed up to one minute to make a quick pitch, after which the participant will receive feedback from the audience.
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
The Third Annual Asheville Ideas Fest is June 17-20, 2024.
When the inaugural Asheville Ideas Fest launched in June 2022, it was a watershed moment when 450 friends from around the country came together with world-class thinkers and doers to engage in meaningful discussions. The program evolved in 2023, and now 2024 promises to be an even more impactful gathering.
Asheville Ideas Fest is for curious citizens who want to engage with other deep thinkers on topics that matter. You may find your deeply held beliefs challenged on these important topics, and we invite you to lean into those moments, approaching them with an open mind and genuine curiosity.
—
This year will include three core themes:
The Thriving American City: Revitalizing Communities through Connection and Growth
In an era of rapid urbanization and evolving societal needs, we will examine strategies that encourage human connection and promote sustainable growth, creating a blueprint for thriving cities. Join us for an engaging day of panel discussions and intensive workshops that evaluate the essential elements of revitalizing American cities and communities.
The Edges of the Unknown: Seeking Enlightenment through Exploration
Ideas Fest panelists and speakers will contemplate the mysteries of space, depths of the ocean, and what lies beyond our current scope of understanding. Using a lens of exploration and curiosity, we will navigate uncharted physical and spiritual territories as we seek to unlock secrets that lie at the edges of the unknown. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and challenged in this unique journey of discovery.
House of Cards or Hallowed Halls: Our Polarized Union and the Future of Democracy
Dive into the heart of contemporary political discourse with Ideas Fest. We will examine the polarized landscape of our union and explore the critical challenges facing democracy today. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the structural, cultural, and societal factors shaping the future of our democratic institutions.
—
In addition to dynamic panel discussions with audience Q&A, afternoon workshops with panel speakers provide further opportunities to explore the themes and develop your ideas. Our program consists of a phenomenal lineup of speakers and a laser focus on generating civil discourse on topics that ignite conversations.

A Journey to Self-Care at the Pisgah Valley Health Fair
Embark on a transformative journey and unlock the doors to holistic well-being at the Pisgah Valley Health Fair on June 19th, from 1-3:30pm. This event guarantees to be a haven for those seeking to nurture their mind, body, and spirit. This self-care extravaganza boasts an array of experiences and resources designed to empower individuals on their path to optimal wellness. Including fitness class demonstrations and information from local wellness leaders in acupuncture, aromatherapy, nutrition, travel, physical therapy, natural herbs, and home health. Representatives from Manna Food Bank, The Council on Aging of Buncombe County, AARP Mountain Region, and The Alzheimer’s Association will also be providing important educational resources during this event.
The Third Annual Asheville Ideas Fest is June 17-20, 2024.
When the inaugural Asheville Ideas Fest launched in June 2022, it was a watershed moment when 450 friends from around the country came together with world-class thinkers and doers to engage in meaningful discussions. The program evolved in 2023, and now 2024 promises to be an even more impactful gathering.
Asheville Ideas Fest is for curious citizens who want to engage with other deep thinkers on topics that matter. You may find your deeply held beliefs challenged on these important topics, and we invite you to lean into those moments, approaching them with an open mind and genuine curiosity.
—
This year will include three core themes:
The Thriving American City: Revitalizing Communities through Connection and Growth
In an era of rapid urbanization and evolving societal needs, we will examine strategies that encourage human connection and promote sustainable growth, creating a blueprint for thriving cities. Join us for an engaging day of panel discussions and intensive workshops that evaluate the essential elements of revitalizing American cities and communities.
The Edges of the Unknown: Seeking Enlightenment through Exploration
Ideas Fest panelists and speakers will contemplate the mysteries of space, depths of the ocean, and what lies beyond our current scope of understanding. Using a lens of exploration and curiosity, we will navigate uncharted physical and spiritual territories as we seek to unlock secrets that lie at the edges of the unknown. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and challenged in this unique journey of discovery.
House of Cards or Hallowed Halls: Our Polarized Union and the Future of Democracy
Dive into the heart of contemporary political discourse with Ideas Fest. We will examine the polarized landscape of our union and explore the critical challenges facing democracy today. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the structural, cultural, and societal factors shaping the future of our democratic institutions.
—
In addition to dynamic panel discussions with audience Q&A, afternoon workshops with panel speakers provide further opportunities to explore the themes and develop your ideas. Our program consists of a phenomenal lineup of speakers and a laser focus on generating civil discourse on topics that ignite conversations.

In the Beginner Tai Chi class, the focus is on the Yang 10 and 24 forms as well as Qigong exercises for health. The Yang 24 form was created in 1956 as a way to create a simplified form of Taiji as exercise for the masses, this is the form many people perform in parks across the world. The reason for its creation was to give the beginner an introduction to the essential elements of Taijiquan, yet retain the traditional flavor of traditional longer hand forms.
Class includes Qigong warm up techniques such as shaking, tapping and vocalizing. We will then practice a Qigong form such as the Five Treasures. Following that we will play with Tai Chi basic techniques such as weight shifting, stepping, opening and closing, continuous movement. To finish the class we will practice Yang Style Tai Chi, beginning with Yang 10 and progressing to longer forms.
In our June installment of the PROpel AVL GROW series for young professionals, Erin Vandermore presents “Closing the Gap: Mastering Intergenerational Communication in the Workplace”
In today’s multigenerational workforce, effective communication is crucial to success. With each generation bringing its unique set of values, beliefs, and technological preferences, it can be challenging to navigate communication styles in the workplace. In this presentation, we will explore the different generations currently in the workforce and their communication styles. We will also discuss tips on how to effectively communicate with each generation and bridge the generational gap.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the different generations currently in the workforce and their communication preferences
- Identify potential challenges in communicating across generations
- Learn strategies for bridging the generational gap and promoting effective communication in the workplace
About the presenter:
Erin Vandermore, MA, LCPC, LCMHC, is a transformative thought leader, licensed therapist, and pioneering wellness coach with over 14 years of experience in the fields of mental health and life coaching. As the founder of Age of Uncertainty Coaching, Erin has dedicated her life to helping individuals discover their unique skills and talents—those often overshadowed by self-sabotage. Her empathetic lens, cultivated through her personal journey as a mom, a survivor of pre-eclampsia, and an individual living with Dyslexia, ADHD, and Anxiety, allows her to connect with clients on a deeply human level.
12:00-1:00pm – GROW Session
Sandwiches, salad and chips will be catered by Del Vecchios!
Please register for this event in order to help us plan accordingly.
About PROpel AVL:
Designed for young professionals between the ages of 21 and 40 in the Asheville/Buncombe area, PROpel AVL provides outstanding professional leadership development opportunities through educational seminars, service opportunities and networking.
Stay connected with text alerts! Text #propelavl to 828-827-5332 for updates and reminders about PROpel AVL programs.
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A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels.This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. You Will Learn To: Who Should Attend? Classes are held once a week for 8 weeks for 2 hours each. Participants are expected to attend the entire series. Registration is required and will be limited. This class will be facilitated by Heather Bauer, master trainer. The series is sponsored by the Land of Sky Area Agency on Aging. |
