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.

Saturday, July 6, 2024
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Free Books for Children ages 0-5
Jul 6 all-day
online w/ Literacy Together

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library impacts the pre­-literacy skills and school readiness of children under the age of 5 in Buncombe County. The program mails a new, free, age-appropriate book to registered children each month until they turn five years old. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library creates a home library of up to 60 books and instills a love of books and reading from an early age. If you have any questions about the program, please send an email to [email protected].

A national panel of educators selects the Imagination Library titles, which include: The Little Engine that Could, Last Stop on Market Street, Violet the Pilot, As an Oak Tree Grows, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Llama Llama Red Pajama, Look Out Kindergarten, here I come, and many more (take a look at all the titles).

Register your child now!

Program Launch and Expansions

Literacy Together became a Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library affiliate in November 2015 with support from the Buncombe Partnership for Children. Through this program, registered children in Buncombe County receive a free book in the mail each month. Their parents also have the opportunity to attend workshops to learn how to build their children’s early literacy skills. Parents in need of literacy assistance are encouraged to receive tutoring through Literacy Together’s adult programming.

The program served 200 children during the 2015/16 fiscal year. The program expanded to serve 400 children in July 2016, and 600 in August 2017. In July 2018, capacity increased to 1,900 thanks to a special allocation in the North Carolina state budget. We’re now serving 4,600 kids in Buncombe County.  

Farm Beginnings® Program: Farmer program applications open
Jul 6 all-day
Organic Growers School

Farm Beginnings® is training the next generation of farmers in the many skills required to start and expand a successful farm business: passion, clear goals, production experience, financial and marketing know-how, and more.

Farm Beginnings® will help you build these skills through one year of farmer-led training, mentoring, and networking. We support individuals in clarifying their goals and strengths, developing agricultural skills, and growing profitable, equitable, and ecologically sound farm businesses.

The OGS Approach

Guided by our commitment to social justice, our programming is led by farmers and mentors active in food, farming, or social justice. By empowering people with skills, knowledge, and access to resources, together we can build a more diverse, equitable food system that enriches the environment and creates a thriving food and farming community.

We use a holistic management frame, farmer-led classroom sessions, on-farm tours, mentoring, and an extensive farmer network. The topics of equity and justice in the food systems are woven into the curriculum, including examples of realistic approaches within the scope of your business models.

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

View a sample of the full course schedule here.

The Arts Build Community Grant
Jul 6 all-day
online

The Arts Build Community Grant has supported arts-based community projects for underserved communities since 2018. Grants range from $1,000-$2,500, with priority given to projects based in low-income neighborhoods and communities in need. Funds may be used to cover costs including art supplies, professional artists’ fees, travel, space rental, advertising, marketing and publicity, website and electronic media, props, music, and equipment rental. Applications are open June 24 and closes July 22.

Volunteer w/ The Old Farmer’s Ball
Jul 6 all-day
Asheville NC

We need volunteers to make our dance happen

Please go to oldfarmersball.com and sign up to help – and you can dance for free!

 

Early Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Greet the sound tech, band, and caller
  • Count money
  • Complete pay-out sheet
  • Supervise volunteers
  • Time commitment: 30 – 60 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Opener

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Sweep the hall
  • Set up chairs
  • Clean / stock bathrooms
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Door Person

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Work when needed to take money at the door
  • Alternate with other Door People and Early host to switch off who sits and who dances
  • Slots available: 2
  • Time commitment: goes until break

Benefits: Dance free one whole night

Closer

  • Arrive by 9:15pm
  • Check in with Late Host
  • Fold and store chairs and tables
  • Sweep the floors
  • Empty and take out trash
  • Confirm completion of tasks with Late Host
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Late Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 9pm (unless other arrangements have been made with Early Host)
  • Complete payout
  • Supervise Closers
  • Close the hall
  • Slots available: 1
  • Time commitment: 10 – 15 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Upcoming Dances

Three dances in July will be hosted by Swannanoa Gathering

July 4,

July 18 and

July 25

The July 18 dance will be a special Ceilidh Dance.

A reminder – We are NOT dancing on Aug 1 and 8

Be sure and save the date for our NYE dance

 

 

 

Volunteer with Our Voice
Jul 6 all-day
Our Voice

Volunteers are at the heart of our work and offer much needed advocacy support for survivors. We have three different volunteer opportunities available: on-call advocates, daytime volunteers, and outreach volunteers. Below are general expectations for all Our Voice volunteers:

Be a minimum of 18 years old

Have reliable transportation

Have a reliable cell phone

Have reliable internet/email

Commit to a minimum of 6 months of volunteering following training

Participate in continued education at least once a year

Trainings will be shared via email/volunteer portal

Complete a 20 hour advocate training prior to taking shifts

This is a requirement in order to maintain advocate privilege.

We are limited in capacity for internships. Those interested in interning with Our Voice should reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator at 828-252-0562 to inquire.

On-Call Volunteer
  • Take crisis line calls during assigned on-call shifts
  • Assist callers in crisis
  • Provide clients with appropriate referrals to Our Voice services or other community agencies
  • Accompany survivors at Mission Hospital during on-call shifts
  • Take a minimum of two on-call phone shifts each month (shifts are weekdays 5pm-8am and weekends/holidays 8am-8pm or 8pm-8am)
ON EXHIBIT—- Bugs: Outside the Box
Jul 6 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Baker Exhibit Center

Where can you see a butterfly with a five foot wingspan, or a longhorn beetle with antennae more than twelve feet across? The answers can be found amongst the enormous sculptures on display in BUGS: Outside the Box!

Scientifically exact, with a keen attention to detail, the exhibit features a virtual army of giant bugs with one aim in mind – educating the public and shining a light on museum collections, taxonomy, and the power of magnification.

Among the highlights of the exhibit is a rarely seen long-arm beetle more than ten feet in height, a collection of heavily armored stag beetles with impressive jaws and horns as long as your arm, and an insight into the amazing intricacy of the physiology of each insect on display. Alongside these impressive works of art is the insect in question represented at life size,  and detailed information on the life habits, location, and other facts unique to each insect and its family.

 

Guided Trail Walk
Jul 6 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Hit the trails and learn more about The North Carolina Arboretum’s botanically diverse forest with a guided trail walk! April through October, this free hiking program is led by trained volunteer guides who take small groups of participants along woodland trails and through a variety of forest types. Depending on the season and each guide’s area of expertise, topics of discussion may include wildflowers, plant and tree identification, natural history and more.

Guided trail walks are limited to 15 people, including the guide, and are not recommended for guests under 16 years of age. Groups depart from the Baker Visitor Center Lobby on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m..

Walks last 1.5 – 2.5 hours, are approximately one to two miles in length. As this program is held rain or shine, all participants should dress appropriately for the weather.

There is no pre-registration; walks are first-come first served and sign up sheets are located in the Baker Visitors Center.

Walks are FREE; however, donations to The North Carolina Arboretum Society are appreciated. Regular parking fees apply. Arboretum Society Members always park free.

Know Before You Go

  • Guided Trail Walks are not recommended for guests under 16 years of age.
  • Guided Trail Walks are rain or shine and all participants should be dressed comfortably and for the weather.
  • Hikes cover 1-2 miles and last 1.5-2 hours.
  • Well-behaved leashed pets are welcome to accompany their owners. In the rare case that a pet is disruptive or negatively impacts the experience, the pet and its owner may be asked to excuse themselves from the guided walk.
Yala Cultural Tour
Jul 6 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts

Visit LEAF Global Arts every Saturday for an in-house cultural exchange with Adama Dembele. Experience the Ivory Coast with our Culture Keeper from the House of Djembe.

Sunday, July 7, 2024
DIY River + Road Cleanups
Jul 7 all-day
Asheville Area

Whenever you want!

 

Supplies available at

2 Sulphur Springs Road

If you need to request supplies for the same or next day, please call 828-254-1776.

Organizing a litter cleanup with your friends, neighbors, co-workers, or other community members is easier than you may think! Asheville GreenWorks provides cleanup supplies and safety information, and will coordinate trash pick up as needed. Available supplies include safety vests, gloves, trash grabbers, trash bags, and SHARPs containers (upon request).

Review the attached guides for instructions and safety information.

Need to know

Please review the attached documents and contact [email protected] with any questions. Your supplies will be available for pickup on the date you’ve requested at Asheville GreenWorks’ office at 2 Sulphur Springs Road, Asheville, NC 28806.

All cleanups should be reported using the online form and supplies should be returned after your cleanup.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Free Books for Children ages 0-5
Jul 7 all-day
online w/ Literacy Together

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library impacts the pre­-literacy skills and school readiness of children under the age of 5 in Buncombe County. The program mails a new, free, age-appropriate book to registered children each month until they turn five years old. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library creates a home library of up to 60 books and instills a love of books and reading from an early age. If you have any questions about the program, please send an email to [email protected].

A national panel of educators selects the Imagination Library titles, which include: The Little Engine that Could, Last Stop on Market Street, Violet the Pilot, As an Oak Tree Grows, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Llama Llama Red Pajama, Look Out Kindergarten, here I come, and many more (take a look at all the titles).

Register your child now!

Program Launch and Expansions

Literacy Together became a Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library affiliate in November 2015 with support from the Buncombe Partnership for Children. Through this program, registered children in Buncombe County receive a free book in the mail each month. Their parents also have the opportunity to attend workshops to learn how to build their children’s early literacy skills. Parents in need of literacy assistance are encouraged to receive tutoring through Literacy Together’s adult programming.

The program served 200 children during the 2015/16 fiscal year. The program expanded to serve 400 children in July 2016, and 600 in August 2017. In July 2018, capacity increased to 1,900 thanks to a special allocation in the North Carolina state budget. We’re now serving 4,600 kids in Buncombe County.  

The Arts Build Community Grant
Jul 7 all-day
online

The Arts Build Community Grant has supported arts-based community projects for underserved communities since 2018. Grants range from $1,000-$2,500, with priority given to projects based in low-income neighborhoods and communities in need. Funds may be used to cover costs including art supplies, professional artists’ fees, travel, space rental, advertising, marketing and publicity, website and electronic media, props, music, and equipment rental. Applications are open June 24 and closes July 22.

Volunteer w/ The Old Farmer’s Ball
Jul 7 all-day
Asheville NC

We need volunteers to make our dance happen

Please go to oldfarmersball.com and sign up to help – and you can dance for free!

 

Early Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Greet the sound tech, band, and caller
  • Count money
  • Complete pay-out sheet
  • Supervise volunteers
  • Time commitment: 30 – 60 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Opener

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Sweep the hall
  • Set up chairs
  • Clean / stock bathrooms
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Door Person

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Work when needed to take money at the door
  • Alternate with other Door People and Early host to switch off who sits and who dances
  • Slots available: 2
  • Time commitment: goes until break

Benefits: Dance free one whole night

Closer

  • Arrive by 9:15pm
  • Check in with Late Host
  • Fold and store chairs and tables
  • Sweep the floors
  • Empty and take out trash
  • Confirm completion of tasks with Late Host
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Late Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 9pm (unless other arrangements have been made with Early Host)
  • Complete payout
  • Supervise Closers
  • Close the hall
  • Slots available: 1
  • Time commitment: 10 – 15 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Upcoming Dances

Three dances in July will be hosted by Swannanoa Gathering

July 4,

July 18 and

July 25

The July 18 dance will be a special Ceilidh Dance.

A reminder – We are NOT dancing on Aug 1 and 8

Be sure and save the date for our NYE dance

 

 

 

ON EXHIBIT—- Bugs: Outside the Box
Jul 7 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Baker Exhibit Center

Where can you see a butterfly with a five foot wingspan, or a longhorn beetle with antennae more than twelve feet across? The answers can be found amongst the enormous sculptures on display in BUGS: Outside the Box!

Scientifically exact, with a keen attention to detail, the exhibit features a virtual army of giant bugs with one aim in mind – educating the public and shining a light on museum collections, taxonomy, and the power of magnification.

Among the highlights of the exhibit is a rarely seen long-arm beetle more than ten feet in height, a collection of heavily armored stag beetles with impressive jaws and horns as long as your arm, and an insight into the amazing intricacy of the physiology of each insect on display. Alongside these impressive works of art is the insect in question represented at life size,  and detailed information on the life habits, location, and other facts unique to each insect and its family.

 

Monday, July 8, 2024
DIY River + Road Cleanups
Jul 8 all-day
Asheville Area

Whenever you want!

 

Supplies available at

2 Sulphur Springs Road

If you need to request supplies for the same or next day, please call 828-254-1776.

Organizing a litter cleanup with your friends, neighbors, co-workers, or other community members is easier than you may think! Asheville GreenWorks provides cleanup supplies and safety information, and will coordinate trash pick up as needed. Available supplies include safety vests, gloves, trash grabbers, trash bags, and SHARPs containers (upon request).

Review the attached guides for instructions and safety information.

Need to know

Please review the attached documents and contact [email protected] with any questions. Your supplies will be available for pickup on the date you’ve requested at Asheville GreenWorks’ office at 2 Sulphur Springs Road, Asheville, NC 28806.

All cleanups should be reported using the online form and supplies should be returned after your cleanup.

Farm Beginnings® Program: Farmer program applications open
Jul 8 all-day
Organic Growers School

Farm Beginnings® is training the next generation of farmers in the many skills required to start and expand a successful farm business: passion, clear goals, production experience, financial and marketing know-how, and more.

Farm Beginnings® will help you build these skills through one year of farmer-led training, mentoring, and networking. We support individuals in clarifying their goals and strengths, developing agricultural skills, and growing profitable, equitable, and ecologically sound farm businesses.

The OGS Approach

Guided by our commitment to social justice, our programming is led by farmers and mentors active in food, farming, or social justice. By empowering people with skills, knowledge, and access to resources, together we can build a more diverse, equitable food system that enriches the environment and creates a thriving food and farming community.

We use a holistic management frame, farmer-led classroom sessions, on-farm tours, mentoring, and an extensive farmer network. The topics of equity and justice in the food systems are woven into the curriculum, including examples of realistic approaches within the scope of your business models.

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

View a sample of the full course schedule here.

The Arts Build Community Grant
Jul 8 all-day
online

The Arts Build Community Grant has supported arts-based community projects for underserved communities since 2018. Grants range from $1,000-$2,500, with priority given to projects based in low-income neighborhoods and communities in need. Funds may be used to cover costs including art supplies, professional artists’ fees, travel, space rental, advertising, marketing and publicity, website and electronic media, props, music, and equipment rental. Applications are open June 24 and closes July 22.

Volunteer w/ The Old Farmer’s Ball
Jul 8 all-day
Asheville NC

We need volunteers to make our dance happen

Please go to oldfarmersball.com and sign up to help – and you can dance for free!

 

Early Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Greet the sound tech, band, and caller
  • Count money
  • Complete pay-out sheet
  • Supervise volunteers
  • Time commitment: 30 – 60 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Opener

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Sweep the hall
  • Set up chairs
  • Clean / stock bathrooms
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Door Person

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Work when needed to take money at the door
  • Alternate with other Door People and Early host to switch off who sits and who dances
  • Slots available: 2
  • Time commitment: goes until break

Benefits: Dance free one whole night

Closer

  • Arrive by 9:15pm
  • Check in with Late Host
  • Fold and store chairs and tables
  • Sweep the floors
  • Empty and take out trash
  • Confirm completion of tasks with Late Host
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Late Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 9pm (unless other arrangements have been made with Early Host)
  • Complete payout
  • Supervise Closers
  • Close the hall
  • Slots available: 1
  • Time commitment: 10 – 15 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Upcoming Dances

Three dances in July will be hosted by Swannanoa Gathering

July 4,

July 18 and

July 25

The July 18 dance will be a special Ceilidh Dance.

A reminder – We are NOT dancing on Aug 1 and 8

Be sure and save the date for our NYE dance

 

 

 

XP League Asheville – Esports Summer Camp!
Jul 8 @ 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
XP League Asheville

XP League Camps are designed to engage kids at many different levels. Not only do kids get to meet new friends and improve their skills in the games they love to play, but they will learn about teamwork, communications, sportsmanship, esports health, nutrition, esports psychology, stretching and exercise, mindset and motivation, boosting focus, and so much more.

ON EXHIBIT—- Bugs: Outside the Box
Jul 8 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Baker Exhibit Center

Where can you see a butterfly with a five foot wingspan, or a longhorn beetle with antennae more than twelve feet across? The answers can be found amongst the enormous sculptures on display in BUGS: Outside the Box!

Scientifically exact, with a keen attention to detail, the exhibit features a virtual army of giant bugs with one aim in mind – educating the public and shining a light on museum collections, taxonomy, and the power of magnification.

Among the highlights of the exhibit is a rarely seen long-arm beetle more than ten feet in height, a collection of heavily armored stag beetles with impressive jaws and horns as long as your arm, and an insight into the amazing intricacy of the physiology of each insect on display. Alongside these impressive works of art is the insect in question represented at life size,  and detailed information on the life habits, location, and other facts unique to each insect and its family.

 

BCDP Phone Banking
Jul 8 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Buncombe County Democratic Party HQ

This year’s election will be won by mobilizing voters who want to preserve our democracy and protect the rights of our citizens. Our phone bankers will be reaching out to likely supporters in your precincts who don’t vote on a regular basis. We will also be making separate calls in your precincts to recruit more volunteers for our efforts.

IF YOU HAVE A LAPTOP, PLEASE BE SURE TO BRING IT TO THE PHONE BANK. If you don’t have one, just be sure you bring your personal email login information (User ID & password) and you can use one of our Chromebooks. If you’ve canvassed or phone banked for Democrats in the past, you likely have an Action ID account, so please be sure to bring that login information as well. Of course, you will also need your cell phone.

Phone banking remains one of the best practices for winning elections and our phone banks are designed to reach those voters who rarely pick up their calls. We’ll leave a message on their voice mail, then also text them the same message. When someone does pick up their call, you’ll possibly have a lively conversation because we are targeting supporters!

Buncombe County Democratic Party Phone Banking
Jul 8 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Buncombe County Democratic Party HQ

This year’s election will be won by mobilizing voters who want to preserve our democracy and protect the rights of our citizens. Our phone bankers will be reaching out to likely supporters in your precincts who don’t vote on a regular basis. We will also be making separate calls in your precincts to recruit more volunteers for our efforts.

IF YOU HAVE A LAPTOP, PLEASE BE SURE TO BRING IT TO THE PHONE BANK. If you don’t have one, just be sure you bring your personal email login information (User ID & password) and you can use one of our Chromebooks. If you’ve canvassed or phone banked for Democrats in the past, you likely have an Action ID account, so please be sure to bring that login information as well. Of course, you will also need your cell phone.

Phone banking remains one of the best practices for winning elections and our phone banks are designed to reach those voters who rarely pick up their calls. We’ll leave a message on their voice mail, then also text them the same message. When someone does pick up their call, you’ll possibly have a lively conversation because we are targeting supporters!

Tuesday, July 9, 2024
The Arts Build Community Grant
Jul 9 all-day
online

The Arts Build Community Grant has supported arts-based community projects for underserved communities since 2018. Grants range from $1,000-$2,500, with priority given to projects based in low-income neighborhoods and communities in need. Funds may be used to cover costs including art supplies, professional artists’ fees, travel, space rental, advertising, marketing and publicity, website and electronic media, props, music, and equipment rental. Applications are open June 24 and closes July 22.

Volunteer w/ The Old Farmer’s Ball
Jul 9 all-day
Asheville NC

We need volunteers to make our dance happen

Please go to oldfarmersball.com and sign up to help – and you can dance for free!

 

Early Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Greet the sound tech, band, and caller
  • Count money
  • Complete pay-out sheet
  • Supervise volunteers
  • Time commitment: 30 – 60 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Opener

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Sweep the hall
  • Set up chairs
  • Clean / stock bathrooms
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Door Person

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Work when needed to take money at the door
  • Alternate with other Door People and Early host to switch off who sits and who dances
  • Slots available: 2
  • Time commitment: goes until break

Benefits: Dance free one whole night

Closer

  • Arrive by 9:15pm
  • Check in with Late Host
  • Fold and store chairs and tables
  • Sweep the floors
  • Empty and take out trash
  • Confirm completion of tasks with Late Host
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Late Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 9pm (unless other arrangements have been made with Early Host)
  • Complete payout
  • Supervise Closers
  • Close the hall
  • Slots available: 1
  • Time commitment: 10 – 15 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Upcoming Dances

Three dances in July will be hosted by Swannanoa Gathering

July 4,

July 18 and

July 25

The July 18 dance will be a special Ceilidh Dance.

A reminder – We are NOT dancing on Aug 1 and 8

Be sure and save the date for our NYE dance

 

 

 

ON EXHIBIT—- Bugs: Outside the Box
Jul 9 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Baker Exhibit Center

Where can you see a butterfly with a five foot wingspan, or a longhorn beetle with antennae more than twelve feet across? The answers can be found amongst the enormous sculptures on display in BUGS: Outside the Box!

Scientifically exact, with a keen attention to detail, the exhibit features a virtual army of giant bugs with one aim in mind – educating the public and shining a light on museum collections, taxonomy, and the power of magnification.

Among the highlights of the exhibit is a rarely seen long-arm beetle more than ten feet in height, a collection of heavily armored stag beetles with impressive jaws and horns as long as your arm, and an insight into the amazing intricacy of the physiology of each insect on display. Alongside these impressive works of art is the insect in question represented at life size,  and detailed information on the life habits, location, and other facts unique to each insect and its family.

 

Sand Hill Nursery Workday
Jul 9 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sand Hill Nursery at the Buncombe County Sports Park

Join us for weekly workdays in the Sand Hill native tree nursery. Tasks vary and often include repotting, weeding, mulching, and other special projects to improve infrastructure and function.

Need to know

Please come dressed in work clothes with close toed shoes. Bring water and sun protection. All other gear and supplies are provided.

Guided Trail Walk
Jul 9 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Hit the trails and learn more about The North Carolina Arboretum’s botanically diverse forest with a guided trail walk! April through October, this free hiking program is led by trained volunteer guides who take small groups of participants along woodland trails and through a variety of forest types. Depending on the season and each guide’s area of expertise, topics of discussion may include wildflowers, plant and tree identification, natural history and more.

Guided trail walks are limited to 15 people, including the guide, and are not recommended for guests under 16 years of age. Groups depart from the Baker Visitor Center Lobby on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m..

Walks last 1.5 – 2.5 hours, are approximately one to two miles in length. As this program is held rain or shine, all participants should dress appropriately for the weather.

There is no pre-registration; walks are first-come first served and sign up sheets are located in the Baker Visitors Center.

Walks are FREE; however, donations to The North Carolina Arboretum Society are appreciated. Regular parking fees apply. Arboretum Society Members always park free.

Know Before You Go

  • Guided Trail Walks are not recommended for guests under 16 years of age.
  • Guided Trail Walks are rain or shine and all participants should be dressed comfortably and for the weather.
  • Hikes cover 1-2 miles and last 1.5-2 hours.
  • Well-behaved leashed pets are welcome to accompany their owners. In the rare case that a pet is disruptive or negatively impacts the experience, the pet and its owner may be asked to excuse themselves from the guided walk.
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
DIY River + Road Cleanups
Jul 10 all-day
Asheville Area

Whenever you want!

 

Supplies available at

2 Sulphur Springs Road

If you need to request supplies for the same or next day, please call 828-254-1776.

Organizing a litter cleanup with your friends, neighbors, co-workers, or other community members is easier than you may think! Asheville GreenWorks provides cleanup supplies and safety information, and will coordinate trash pick up as needed. Available supplies include safety vests, gloves, trash grabbers, trash bags, and SHARPs containers (upon request).

Review the attached guides for instructions and safety information.

Need to know

Please review the attached documents and contact [email protected] with any questions. Your supplies will be available for pickup on the date you’ve requested at Asheville GreenWorks’ office at 2 Sulphur Springs Road, Asheville, NC 28806.

All cleanups should be reported using the online form and supplies should be returned after your cleanup.

Farm Beginnings® Program: Farmer program applications open
Jul 10 all-day
Organic Growers School

Farm Beginnings® is training the next generation of farmers in the many skills required to start and expand a successful farm business: passion, clear goals, production experience, financial and marketing know-how, and more.

Farm Beginnings® will help you build these skills through one year of farmer-led training, mentoring, and networking. We support individuals in clarifying their goals and strengths, developing agricultural skills, and growing profitable, equitable, and ecologically sound farm businesses.

The OGS Approach

Guided by our commitment to social justice, our programming is led by farmers and mentors active in food, farming, or social justice. By empowering people with skills, knowledge, and access to resources, together we can build a more diverse, equitable food system that enriches the environment and creates a thriving food and farming community.

We use a holistic management frame, farmer-led classroom sessions, on-farm tours, mentoring, and an extensive farmer network. The topics of equity and justice in the food systems are woven into the curriculum, including examples of realistic approaches within the scope of your business models.

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

View a sample of the full course schedule here.

The Arts Build Community Grant
Jul 10 all-day
online

The Arts Build Community Grant has supported arts-based community projects for underserved communities since 2018. Grants range from $1,000-$2,500, with priority given to projects based in low-income neighborhoods and communities in need. Funds may be used to cover costs including art supplies, professional artists’ fees, travel, space rental, advertising, marketing and publicity, website and electronic media, props, music, and equipment rental. Applications are open June 24 and closes July 22.

Volunteer w/ The Old Farmer’s Ball
Jul 10 all-day
Asheville NC

We need volunteers to make our dance happen

Please go to oldfarmersball.com and sign up to help – and you can dance for free!

 

Early Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Greet the sound tech, band, and caller
  • Count money
  • Complete pay-out sheet
  • Supervise volunteers
  • Time commitment: 30 – 60 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Opener

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Sweep the hall
  • Set up chairs
  • Clean / stock bathrooms
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Door Person

  • Arrive by 7pm
  • Check in with Early Host
  • Work when needed to take money at the door
  • Alternate with other Door People and Early host to switch off who sits and who dances
  • Slots available: 2
  • Time commitment: goes until break

Benefits: Dance free one whole night

Closer

  • Arrive by 9:15pm
  • Check in with Late Host
  • Fold and store chairs and tables
  • Sweep the floors
  • Empty and take out trash
  • Confirm completion of tasks with Late Host
  • Time commitment: 15 – 20 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Late Host (Board members preferred)

  • Arrive by 9pm (unless other arrangements have been made with Early Host)
  • Complete payout
  • Supervise Closers
  • Close the hall
  • Slots available: 1
  • Time commitment: 10 – 15 minutes

Benefits: Dance free the same night

Upcoming Dances

Three dances in July will be hosted by Swannanoa Gathering

July 4,

July 18 and

July 25

The July 18 dance will be a special Ceilidh Dance.

A reminder – We are NOT dancing on Aug 1 and 8

Be sure and save the date for our NYE dance