Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Friday, June 28, 2024
Super Summer Book Sale Antique, Collectable and Coffee Table Books
Jun 28 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Pack Memorial Library

Friday, June 28 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday, June 29 from 10 a.m-3 p.m.

On June 28 and 29, the Friends of Pack Library will be having their annual Super Summer Sale of antique, collectible, & coffee table books. There will also be a special sale on all items in Bookends Used Book Store for these two days.

On Friday, June 28 all of the antique, collectable and coffee table books in Lord Auditorium will be priced as marked. This sale will include hundreds of newly acquired signed mystery books. Sealed DVDs and children’s better books will be available in the auditorium Friday only, priced as marked. All items in Bookends Used Book Store on the main floor of the library will be half off, with books in the children’s area of Bookends specially priced at 25¢ each.

On Saturday, June 29 the antique and collectable books in the auditorium will be half off the marked price. Bookends items will still be half off, with books in the children’s section marked down to 10¢ each.

All proceeds from this sale will benefit Buncombe County Public Libraries. If you have any questions, contact the Friends of Pack Library.

Swannanoa Valley Book Club Series
Jun 28 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Black Mountain Library

The June Book is A Short Time to Stay Here by Terry Roberts.
This series, in collaboration with the Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, explores novels, poetry, and historic nonfiction focused on Appalachian experiences and Swannanoa Valley history through discussions and visits from regional authors.
Schedule:

10:00-10:30 a.m. Book club discussion
Short break
11:00 a.m. – noon Author reading and Q&A
Cost: Swannanoa Valley Book Club Series events are FREE to the public.
Accessing Books: The Black Mountain Public Library will order and hold SVM Book Club books ahead of time for checkout by book club members. Some books are available for purchase through the Swannanoa Valley Museum.

Summer Reading Program: Books + Free Ice Cream
Jun 28 @ 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Hop Ice Cream 

Buncombe County Public Library is thrilled to announce The Hop Ice Cream as a proud supporting partner of this year’s Summer Reading Program to encourage youth literacy in our community. The Hop will provide free ice cream at the Summer Library Fest on Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m.-noon at East Asheville Library. For added fun, The Hop owner Greg Garrison will collaborate with Secret Agent 23 Skidoo to provide a special dance performance to families in attendance.

Any kid or teen who visits a Buncombe County library to pick up their summer reading activity sheet will also receive a 10 percent off coupon redeemable at any Hop location or at Pop Bubble Tea. Return your completed activity sheet to any branch and receive a bookmark for a free kiddie scoop of ice cream at any Hop location. You must complete 10 or more activities on your sheet to be eligible for ice cream – and you can also select a free book of your choice!

Summer Reading runs from June 1 to  August 31 and is open to anyone from birth to age 18.  If you have any questions, just contact your friendly neighborhood library.

The Hop Ice Cream  OUR LOCATIONS


North Asheville

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

828.254.2224

More Info »


West Asheville

721 Haywood Rd
Asheville, NC 28806

828.252.5155

More Info »


Downtown Asheville

56 Patton Ave
Asheville, NC 28801

Inside the S&W Building

More Info »


Black Mountain

114 Cherry Street
Black Mountain, NC 28711

828.357.5461

More Info »


The Creamery

167 Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806

828.774.5058

More Info »

Pop Bubble Tea

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

More Info »

Fuego Fridays
Jun 28 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts

Get ready to groove to the rhythm of the Caribbean at LEAF Global’s monthly DJ Dance Party! Step into the vibrant atmosphere of LEAF Global, where every floor comes alive with infectious beats and irresistible energy. DJ Haviken Hayes’ dynamic mixes of Caribbean, dancehall, and global sounds will keep the dance floor buzzing all night long. And for those looking to perfect their moves, professional salsa instructor Monika Guerra will be offering free salsa lessons starting at 8 p.m.

Admission to the DJ Dance Party is $15 at the door, with drinks and snacks available to keep you fueled throughout the evening.

LEAF Global’s monthly DJ Dance Party
Jun 28 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts

Get ready to groove to the rhythm of the Caribbean at LEAF Global’s monthly DJ Dance Party! Taking place on the final Friday of every month, this exciting event invites music lovers of all ages and backgrounds to come together for a night of pure entertainment and cultural celebration.

Step into the vibrant atmosphere of LEAF Global, where every floor comes alive with infectious beats and irresistible energy. DJ Haviken Hayes’ dynamic mixes of Caribbean, dancehall, and global sounds will keep the dance floor buzzing all night long.

For those looking to perfect their moves, professional salsa instructor Monika Guerra will be offering free salsa lessons starting at 8 p.m. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, Monika’s expert guidance will have you salsa-ing with confidence in no time.

Embrace the spirit of the Caribbean with a themed ambiance that transports you to tropical shores. All are welcome to join in the festivities, so grab your friends and come dressed in your best Caribbean-inspired attire for a night to remember.

Admission to the DJ Dance Party is $15 at the door, with drinks and snacks available to keep you fueled throughout the evening. Indulge in a selection of refreshing beverages including margaritas, mojitos, and more, provided by Flybird & Uno Mas.

Saturday, June 29, 2024
Carl Sandburg Home Volunteer Opportunity: Goat Barn Attendant
Jun 29 all-day
Carl Sandburg Home Historic Site
Goat Barn Attendant: Are you interested in helping our park rangers care for the dairy goats at Connemara Farms? These goats require daily care, including feeding, grooming, and cleaning of their stalls. We also share the story of the Sandburg family and their special herd with thousands of visitors each year.
Anyone 18 and older who has 4 hours a week to dedicate to the park is encouraged to apply for this volunteer opportunity. Applications can be found here (https://forms.office.com/g/LzQweWBSma) Attending a virtual orientation, short phone interview, and in-person training are required. Dates for these events will be sent to qualified applicants.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Free Books for Children ages 0-5
Jun 29 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.  

Registration Open: Fall 2024-Spring 2025 Asheville Junior Theater – School of Dance
Jun 29 all-day
Asheville Junior Theater

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!

Volunteer with Our Voice
Jun 29 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)
Knock Doors with Buncombe County Democrats
Jun 29 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Buncombe County Democratic Party HQ

Calling all Buncombe County Democrats!

Join us for an afternoon of knocking on doors and talking with your Democratic neighbors.

After you’ve signed up to canvass, register for an online training on canvassing with MiniVan. https://www.mobilize.us/ncdems/event/602441/

Super Summer Book Sale Antique, Collectable and Coffee Table Books
Jun 29 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Pack Memorial Library

Friday, June 28 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday, June 29 from 10 a.m-3 p.m.

On June 28 and 29, the Friends of Pack Library will be having their annual Super Summer Sale of antique, collectible, & coffee table books. There will also be a special sale on all items in Bookends Used Book Store for these two days.

On Friday, June 28 all of the antique, collectable and coffee table books in Lord Auditorium will be priced as marked. This sale will include hundreds of newly acquired signed mystery books. Sealed DVDs and children’s better books will be available in the auditorium Friday only, priced as marked. All items in Bookends Used Book Store on the main floor of the library will be half off, with books in the children’s area of Bookends specially priced at 25¢ each.

On Saturday, June 29 the antique and collectable books in the auditorium will be half off the marked price. Bookends items will still be half off, with books in the children’s section marked down to 10¢ each.

All proceeds from this sale will benefit Buncombe County Public Libraries. If you have any questions, contact the Friends of Pack Library.

New Story Time Series: MENtors Reading Program
Jun 29 @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Enka-Candler Library

Did you know that data shows having active male role models in the life of children can breakdown stereotypical gender biases and lead to higher gender equality and empowerment? With that in mind, Buncombe County public libraries is excited to introduce our new Saturday morning story time series, Reading MENtors. This reading initiative encourages men from our local community to celebrate that men love to read. “According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, less than 3% of early childhood educators, including preschool teachers and librarians, are men,” says Enka-Candler Library Branch Manager Erin Parcels. “That means that we have entire generations of children who grew up without a clear idea of what positive male educators are. To see strong literacy practices in children, adults need to model such behavior, which is why we are inviting men with different professions from the local community to share good reading habits to children.”

To help bolster the number of male reading role models, the Enka-Candler Library is inviting men with different professions from all over Buncombe County to share their joy of reading with young patrons. Data shows that having active male role models in children’s lives can break down stereotypical gender biases and lead to higher gender equality and empowerment. Additionally, teaching and modeling reading at an early age vitally important for brain development. “In the first few years of life, more than one million new neural connections are formed every second. Ninety percent of the brain develops by the age of five,” exclaims Librarian Kate Sprate, “Reading plays a pivotal role in setting children up for future social, emotional, and educational success because literacy helps build language, phonological awareness, and comprehension skills.”

This program is open to children of all ages and gender identities. We believe that positive literacy role models are for everyone! Story time will be every other Saturday beginning May 4 at 10:30 a.m., please join us for a story time followed by fun activities! See below for more MENtor story times.

Interested in being a MENtor?
If you know of someone in our community who would be a great Reading MENtor, let us know! Volunteers will read a book and be accompanied by Youth Services Librarian Kate Spratt, who will host a follow-up activity in line with the theme of the story or the person’s career. We love to collaborate, so ideas from volunteers and full participation are welcome. We are looking for volunteers who enjoy reading and sharing the love of reading, are patient, positive, and joyful. To submit a reading MENtor nomination, email [email protected].

Upcoming MENtor story time and acitivity schedule – all story times are at 10:30 a.m.

May 4: Read & Play!

  • Jason Hyatt, Director of Buncombe County Public Libraries
  • Play-Doh Club preview
  • Free book prize

May 18: Music & Movement

  • Mike Martinez, LEAF Global Arts #SparktheArtsNC Artist-in-residence, Announcer at Blue Ridge Public Radio, Artist Mentor for StoryCraft
  • Musical instrument petting zoo, Build your own instrument, songwriting station

June 1: GOAL!

  • Gregg Munn, Director and Head Coach of Mars Hill University Men’s Soccer Team & players
  • Soccer obstacle course/warm-up stations

June 15: TBD

June 29: TBD

July 20: Building communities

  • David McNair, Rector at St. James Episcopal Church
  • LEGO free-build and giant foam block building

Aug. 3: Fun and games

  • Mac Stanley and Matt Dixon, Buncombe County Parks & Recreation
  • Giant yard game stations and crafts

Aug. 17: Pizza party

  • Jack Kirakossian, personal chef and food educator
  • Create your own min pizza

 


Summer Reading Program: Books + Free Ice Cream
Jun 29 @ 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Hop Ice Cream 

Buncombe County Public Library is thrilled to announce The Hop Ice Cream as a proud supporting partner of this year’s Summer Reading Program to encourage youth literacy in our community. The Hop will provide free ice cream at the Summer Library Fest on Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m.-noon at East Asheville Library. For added fun, The Hop owner Greg Garrison will collaborate with Secret Agent 23 Skidoo to provide a special dance performance to families in attendance.

Any kid or teen who visits a Buncombe County library to pick up their summer reading activity sheet will also receive a 10 percent off coupon redeemable at any Hop location or at Pop Bubble Tea. Return your completed activity sheet to any branch and receive a bookmark for a free kiddie scoop of ice cream at any Hop location. You must complete 10 or more activities on your sheet to be eligible for ice cream – and you can also select a free book of your choice!

Summer Reading runs from June 1 to  August 31 and is open to anyone from birth to age 18.  If you have any questions, just contact your friendly neighborhood library.

The Hop Ice Cream  OUR LOCATIONS


North Asheville

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

828.254.2224

More Info »


West Asheville

721 Haywood Rd
Asheville, NC 28806

828.252.5155

More Info »


Downtown Asheville

56 Patton Ave
Asheville, NC 28801

Inside the S&W Building

More Info »


Black Mountain

114 Cherry Street
Black Mountain, NC 28711

828.357.5461

More Info »


The Creamery

167 Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806

828.774.5058

More Info »

Pop Bubble Tea

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

More Info »

Sunday, June 30, 2024
Carl Sandburg Home Volunteer Opportunity: Goat Barn Attendant
Jun 30 all-day
Carl Sandburg Home Historic Site
Goat Barn Attendant: Are you interested in helping our park rangers care for the dairy goats at Connemara Farms? These goats require daily care, including feeding, grooming, and cleaning of their stalls. We also share the story of the Sandburg family and their special herd with thousands of visitors each year.
Anyone 18 and older who has 4 hours a week to dedicate to the park is encouraged to apply for this volunteer opportunity. Applications can be found here (https://forms.office.com/g/LzQweWBSma) Attending a virtual orientation, short phone interview, and in-person training are required. Dates for these events will be sent to qualified applicants.
DIY River + Road Cleanups
Jun 30 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
Jun 30 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.  

Volunteer with Our Voice
Jun 30 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)
Summer Reading Program: Books + Free Ice Cream
Jun 30 @ 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Hop Ice Cream 

Buncombe County Public Library is thrilled to announce The Hop Ice Cream as a proud supporting partner of this year’s Summer Reading Program to encourage youth literacy in our community. The Hop will provide free ice cream at the Summer Library Fest on Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m.-noon at East Asheville Library. For added fun, The Hop owner Greg Garrison will collaborate with Secret Agent 23 Skidoo to provide a special dance performance to families in attendance.

Any kid or teen who visits a Buncombe County library to pick up their summer reading activity sheet will also receive a 10 percent off coupon redeemable at any Hop location or at Pop Bubble Tea. Return your completed activity sheet to any branch and receive a bookmark for a free kiddie scoop of ice cream at any Hop location. You must complete 10 or more activities on your sheet to be eligible for ice cream – and you can also select a free book of your choice!

Summer Reading runs from June 1 to  August 31 and is open to anyone from birth to age 18.  If you have any questions, just contact your friendly neighborhood library.

The Hop Ice Cream  OUR LOCATIONS


North Asheville

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

828.254.2224

More Info »


West Asheville

721 Haywood Rd
Asheville, NC 28806

828.252.5155

More Info »


Downtown Asheville

56 Patton Ave
Asheville, NC 28801

Inside the S&W Building

More Info »


Black Mountain

114 Cherry Street
Black Mountain, NC 28711

828.357.5461

More Info »


The Creamery

167 Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806

828.774.5058

More Info »

Pop Bubble Tea

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

More Info »

Monday, July 1, 2024
DIY River + Road Cleanups
Jul 1 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.

Volunteer with Our Voice
Jul 1 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)
BCDP Phone Banking
Jul 1 @ 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 1 @ 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!

Letters to the Editor + Opinion Editorials Creative Workshop
Jul 1 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Buncombe County Democratic Party HQ

Democrats need to be more actively messaging and to overcome the makers of fake news with the truth! Join this ongoing group of writers working together on Letters to the Editor and Opinion Editorials. We’ll discuss the issues we care about most deeply and craft a plan to respond to events as they occur in real time.

The group meets the first and third Monday of each month for writing, responding to one another’s work, scheduling submissions, and exploring media outlets across the state.

“Rant with purpose. Support with facts. Propel action.” – Myra Schoen

Summer Reading Program: Books + Free Ice Cream
Jul 1 @ 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Hop Ice Cream 

Buncombe County Public Library is thrilled to announce The Hop Ice Cream as a proud supporting partner of this year’s Summer Reading Program to encourage youth literacy in our community. The Hop will provide free ice cream at the Summer Library Fest on Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m.-noon at East Asheville Library. For added fun, The Hop owner Greg Garrison will collaborate with Secret Agent 23 Skidoo to provide a special dance performance to families in attendance.

Any kid or teen who visits a Buncombe County library to pick up their summer reading activity sheet will also receive a 10 percent off coupon redeemable at any Hop location or at Pop Bubble Tea. Return your completed activity sheet to any branch and receive a bookmark for a free kiddie scoop of ice cream at any Hop location. You must complete 10 or more activities on your sheet to be eligible for ice cream – and you can also select a free book of your choice!

Summer Reading runs from June 1 to  August 31 and is open to anyone from birth to age 18.  If you have any questions, just contact your friendly neighborhood library.

The Hop Ice Cream  OUR LOCATIONS


North Asheville

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

828.254.2224

More Info »


West Asheville

721 Haywood Rd
Asheville, NC 28806

828.252.5155

More Info »


Downtown Asheville

56 Patton Ave
Asheville, NC 28801

Inside the S&W Building

More Info »


Black Mountain

114 Cherry Street
Black Mountain, NC 28711

828.357.5461

More Info »


The Creamery

167 Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806

828.774.5058

More Info »

Pop Bubble Tea

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

More Info »

Monday Night Dance: Community contra dance
Jul 1 @ 8:15 pm – 10:30 pm
St. George's Center for Art and Spirit

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!

Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Volunteer w/ The Old Farmer’s Ball
Jul 2 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 2 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)
Sand Hill Nursery Workday
Jul 2 @ 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.

Summer Reading Program: Books + Free Ice Cream
Jul 2 @ 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Hop Ice Cream 

Buncombe County Public Library is thrilled to announce The Hop Ice Cream as a proud supporting partner of this year’s Summer Reading Program to encourage youth literacy in our community. The Hop will provide free ice cream at the Summer Library Fest on Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m.-noon at East Asheville Library. For added fun, The Hop owner Greg Garrison will collaborate with Secret Agent 23 Skidoo to provide a special dance performance to families in attendance.

Any kid or teen who visits a Buncombe County library to pick up their summer reading activity sheet will also receive a 10 percent off coupon redeemable at any Hop location or at Pop Bubble Tea. Return your completed activity sheet to any branch and receive a bookmark for a free kiddie scoop of ice cream at any Hop location. You must complete 10 or more activities on your sheet to be eligible for ice cream – and you can also select a free book of your choice!

Summer Reading runs from June 1 to  August 31 and is open to anyone from birth to age 18.  If you have any questions, just contact your friendly neighborhood library.

The Hop Ice Cream  OUR LOCATIONS


North Asheville

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

828.254.2224

More Info »


West Asheville

721 Haywood Rd
Asheville, NC 28806

828.252.5155

More Info »


Downtown Asheville

56 Patton Ave
Asheville, NC 28801

Inside the S&W Building

More Info »


Black Mountain

114 Cherry Street
Black Mountain, NC 28711

828.357.5461

More Info »


The Creamery

167 Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806

828.774.5058

More Info »

Pop Bubble Tea

640 Merrimon Ave
Asheville, NC 28804

More Info »

 Books to Action – The Action Event
Jul 2 @ 5:15 pm – 8:00 pm
Pack Memorial Library

This June and July, join Buncombe County libraries to learn about the evidence-driven practices and public health policies helping our community navigate crises.

On  June 5 (HIV Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day), Buncombe County Special Collections will host a panel discussion on the history of harm reduction in Western North Carolina.

 

The Books to Action Book Club will meet with Buncombe County Health and Human Services staff for a presentation on harm reduction and overdose reversal, followed by a discussion panel led by speakers with lived experience in opioid addiction.

Advance registration is required. Learn more and register here.

What: Books to Action – The Book Discussion
When: Wednesday, July 10 from 6-7 p.m.
Where: Virtual event, via Zoom

We will be discussing Dopesick by Beth Macy. Journalist Beth Macy’s definitive account of America’s opioid epidemic “masterfully interlaces stories of communities in crisis with dark histories of corporate greed and regulatory indifference” (New York Times) – from the boardroom to the courtroom and into the living rooms of Americans.

Advance registration is required. Learn more and register here.

Please call (828) 250-4700 if you would like help putting a hold on a library copy of this book. We also plan to send some supplemental suggested resources (news articles, podcasts, etc.) to our registrants to help round out the reading.

Books to Action is a book club coordinated by Buncombe County Public Libraries that explores nonfiction books centered on key issues facing our community. The book discussions take place in conjunction with a community service project, educational field trip, or presentations from local experts.