Calendar of Events

Join us for a lively language enrichment story time designed for children ages 4 to 18 months.

Sippin’ Santa at The Tiki Easy Bar is back from Nov. 18 through Dec. 31. We’re throwing a tropical island-themed holiday party every single day—don’t miss the fun! Along with a curated menu of expertly crafted cocktails and over-the-top holiday decor, Sippin’ Santa’s much sought-after custom mugs and glassware will be available for purchase while supplies last.

Reservations are not required, but if you’d like to book our private room “Cynamon Cove” for 6-10 people, visit: tiki-easy-at-hi-wire-brewing.resos.com/booking.

Throwing a holiday party or a larger gathering? Email [email protected] to inquire.

Monday-Thursday 4-9pm
Friday & Saturday 3-10pm
Sunday 3-9pm

The Tiki Easy Bar is a hidden tropical oasis behind Hi-Wire’s South Slope tap room.

Official Menu: sippinsantapopup.com/menu
Mocktails, Frozen Drinks, & Spirits: bit.ly/tikieasysippinsantamenu

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Find the perfect gift this holiday season for everyone on your list at the 10th annual 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗣𝗼𝗽 𝗨𝗽 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽! Shop local, shop small and support local artists, makers, and vintage collectors.

We’ve decked the halls of the Ideation Lab inside the Center for Craft in Downtown Asheville. Shop over 100 vendors; housewares, handmade jewelry, ceramics, apparel, vintage clothes, ornaments, candles, gifts for our furry friends and more.

WHEN:
Open Nov 29 through Dec 24
10am-8pm daily

WHERE:
The Ideation Lab inside the Center for Craft
67 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801

Every Wednesday morning, we open up the children’s activity room to give kids time for free play with puppets. Children must be under the supervision or a parent or guardian.

Hear from economist and author, Ben Harris, from the Brookings Institution at this year’s Annual Economic Outlook at the Omni Grove Park Inn on Wednesday, December 11th.

In light of Hurricane Helene’s impact on our region, Ben will not only provide insights into the economic trends shaping the nation and beyond but will also address the importance of community resiliency in the face of natural disasters.

Please join us for this timely discussion on strengthening our economy and building resilience for the future.

Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!

Sippin’ Santa at The Tiki Easy Bar is back from Nov. 18 through Dec. 31. We’re throwing a tropical island-themed holiday party every single day—don’t miss the fun! Along with a curated menu of expertly crafted cocktails and over-the-top holiday decor, Sippin’ Santa’s much sought-after custom mugs and glassware will be available for purchase while supplies last.

Reservations are not required, but if you’d like to book our private room “Cynamon Cove” for 6-10 people, visit: tiki-easy-at-hi-wire-brewing.resos.com/booking.

Throwing a holiday party or a larger gathering? Email [email protected] to inquire.

Monday-Thursday 4-9pm
Friday & Saturday 3-10pm
Sunday 3-9pm

The Tiki Easy Bar is a hidden tropical oasis behind Hi-Wire’s South Slope tap room.

Official Menu: sippinsantapopup.com/menu
Mocktails, Frozen Drinks, & Spirits: bit.ly/tikieasysippinsantamenu

Typically, our year-end event is the Venture 15 Awards. This event celebrated the fastest-growing companies in Asheville, spotlighting achievements in high growth and entrepreneurial success. However, following the challenges brought by Hurricane Helene, our community’s priorities have shifted toward resilience, renewal, and long-term impact. In response, Venture Asheville is excited to present the The Venture Asheville Honors – A Telethon Celebrating Entrepreneurial Resilience—a dynamic re-imagining of our annual celebration.

This year’s event is more than an award show; it’s a rallying call to rebuild and strengthen Western North Carolina’s business ecosystem. Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring live entertainment from bluegrass to hip-hop, tarot card readings, and inspiring interviews with entrepreneurs and community leaders. Hosted live on Facebook and in person, the telethon invites everyone to participate as we aim to raise $1 million in mixed funding for Optimist Ventures, a groundbreaking community-first fund. Come be part of a pivotal moment as we move from recovery to reinvention, championing companies that are committed to growing sustainably and making Asheville a beacon of resilience.

This is a theater-style show with individual tickets (no tables) networking, drinks, and food before and after the show.

Ticket includes entry to the show, one drink ticket, and light food.

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Swing into the holiday spirit at Haywood Park Hotel and a jazzy Swingin’ Lil Christmas Party featuring Drayton & the Dreamboats.

Enjoy holiday cocktails, mocktails, and treats, plus a swing dance lesson (7-8 PM). Dress to impress and celebrate the glamour of the swing era at The Cellar below Haywood Park Hotel. No partner? No problem—new moves and festive fun await!

The Western Front, Christmas, 1914. Out of the violence a silence, then a song. A German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht.” Thus begins an extraordinary time of camaraderie, music, and peace in a spontaneous ceasefire during World War 1. A remarkable true story, told in the words and songs of the men who lived it.

“A beautiful musical retelling of a World War I ceasefire
with gifts of music, poetry, and melody.”
-New York Times

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Find the perfect gift this holiday season for everyone on your list at the 10th annual 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗣𝗼𝗽 𝗨𝗽 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽! Shop local, shop small and support local artists, makers, and vintage collectors.

We’ve decked the halls of the Ideation Lab inside the Center for Craft in Downtown Asheville. Shop over 100 vendors; housewares, handmade jewelry, ceramics, apparel, vintage clothes, ornaments, candles, gifts for our furry friends and more.

WHEN:
Open Nov 29 through Dec 24
10am-8pm daily

WHERE:
The Ideation Lab inside the Center for Craft
67 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801

A lively language enrichment story time designed for children ages 4 to 18 months.

Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!

Sippin’ Santa at The Tiki Easy Bar is back from Nov. 18 through Dec. 31. We’re throwing a tropical island-themed holiday party every single day—don’t miss the fun! Along with a curated menu of expertly crafted cocktails and over-the-top holiday decor, Sippin’ Santa’s much sought-after custom mugs and glassware will be available for purchase while supplies last.

Reservations are not required, but if you’d like to book our private room “Cynamon Cove” for 6-10 people, visit: tiki-easy-at-hi-wire-brewing.resos.com/booking.

Throwing a holiday party or a larger gathering? Email [email protected] to inquire.

Monday-Thursday 4-9pm
Friday & Saturday 3-10pm
Sunday 3-9pm

The Tiki Easy Bar is a hidden tropical oasis behind Hi-Wire’s South Slope tap room.

Official Menu: sippinsantapopup.com/menu
Mocktails, Frozen Drinks, & Spirits: bit.ly/tikieasysippinsantamenu

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!

The Western Front, Christmas, 1914. Out of the violence a silence, then a song. A German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht.” Thus begins an extraordinary time of camaraderie, music, and peace in a spontaneous ceasefire during World War 1. A remarkable true story, told in the words and songs of the men who lived it.

“A beautiful musical retelling of a World War I ceasefire
with gifts of music, poetry, and melody.”
-New York Times

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Find the perfect gift this holiday season for everyone on your list at the 10th annual 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗣𝗼𝗽 𝗨𝗽 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽! Shop local, shop small and support local artists, makers, and vintage collectors.

We’ve decked the halls of the Ideation Lab inside the Center for Craft in Downtown Asheville. Shop over 100 vendors; housewares, handmade jewelry, ceramics, apparel, vintage clothes, ornaments, candles, gifts for our furry friends and more.

WHEN:
Open Nov 29 through Dec 24
10am-8pm daily

WHERE:
The Ideation Lab inside the Center for Craft
67 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801

These early literacy programs for kids and their caregivers are designed to develop a joy for learning through books, songs, and activities.

Story time takes place in our library community room. This is not a ticketed event.

Plan to collaborate with other musicians at Sideways Farm & Brewery in Etowah. Bring your instruments and voices and enjoy making music and networking with other artists, while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Food truck is on site and beverages available for purchase from Sideways (small
batch craft beers, hard jun, ciders, wine, and non alcoholic drinks). Family, fans, friends, and leashed dogs are all welcome!
During winter months enjoy playing under the covered, sheltered, heated porch! And during the summer months enjoy
collaborating in the fields, on the stage, or under the patio

Sippin’ Santa at The Tiki Easy Bar is back from Nov. 18 through Dec. 31. We’re throwing a tropical island-themed holiday party every single day—don’t miss the fun! Along with a curated menu of expertly crafted cocktails and over-the-top holiday decor, Sippin’ Santa’s much sought-after custom mugs and glassware will be available for purchase while supplies last.

Reservations are not required, but if you’d like to book our private room “Cynamon Cove” for 6-10 people, visit: tiki-easy-at-hi-wire-brewing.resos.com/booking.

Throwing a holiday party or a larger gathering? Email [email protected] to inquire.

Monday-Thursday 4-9pm
Friday & Saturday 3-10pm
Sunday 3-9pm

The Tiki Easy Bar is a hidden tropical oasis behind Hi-Wire’s South Slope tap room.

Official Menu: sippinsantapopup.com/menu
Mocktails, Frozen Drinks, & Spirits: bit.ly/tikieasysippinsantamenu

Asheville Parks and Recreation will host the Holiday Skate Jam for one night only! 6pm-9pm. Harrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville transforms into a massive skate rink for one night. Join us for holiday music, festive decor, and an unforgettable night on the floor. please bring your own inline or roller skates. Limited availability of skates for rent. concessions will be available.

Buncombe County Parks & Recreation is ready to make the season a little merrier and a lot brighter with the annual Festival of Lights. Lake Julian Park’s captivating display of thousands of holiday lights begins TONIGHT, Friday, Dec. 6 through Monday, Dec. 23, and will occur nightly from 6 to 9 p.m. This long-time mountain family tradition turns the park into a magical wonderland filled with sparkle and celebration.

Each night, you can stay in the comfort of your own car while oooh-ing and ah-ing at the illumination and listening to your favorite festive tunes. Due to the impact of Tropical Storm Helene, this year’s Festival of Lights will only offer the drive-thru experience.

Admission is $10 per car for personal vehicles, $25 for sprinter vans, trailblazers, and conversion vans, and $50 for buses and motorcoaches. Purchased tickets will be valid for one-time use on any night of the festival; tickets are not date specific. On Tuesdays, Buncombe County residents in their personal vehicles will be given free entry.

A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit the Special Olympics of Buncombe County.

Celebrate the magic of winter at the 4th annual Winter Wonder Walk, an immersive outdoor story-walk that combines the excitement of live theater with a scenic walk in the woods. This festive adventure takes guests through the kingdom of Winterland as each page is brought to life by many delightful characters along the way. Created by Asheville Plays and hosted by the Adventure Center of Asheville, the event includes a heated tent with a holiday market featuring many local businesses, a kids’ play area, tasty concessions, and Venezuelan cuisine from Delish Food Truck. Guests can also enjoy the Treetops Adventure Park Glow Trail, open to guests aged 4 and older, illuminated with thousands of lights. Kids can earn a free general admission ticket by participating in the S’Mitten With Books program. Festivities start at 6 PM, with the Winter Wonder Walk opening at 6:30 PM. Each ticket purchased supports the community by donating to Manna Foodbank, making this a wonderful way to celebrate the season with loved ones! There are six opportunities to experience this enchanting memory; Nov 29,30, & Dec 6,7,13,14. Please check our website for more information, FAQs, and to purchase your tickets! www.winterwonderwalk.com.

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.