Calendar of Events
Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.
Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.
Written and Performed by Award-Winning Playwright and Actor, Mike Wiley
Co-presented by NC Stage and the YMI Cultural Center
*Please note: All performances of Tired Souls will take place at the YMI Cultural Institute at 39 S. Market St. Downtown Asheville*
Tired Souls opens in Montgomery, Alabama on December 1, 1955 – the day Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a city bus to a white man. Her determination was the catalyst that inspired Montgomery’s black citizens to abandon all travel on city buses until they were no longer forced to sit in the back or stand when a white person boarded. But there were others who came before Mrs. Parks and laid the groundwork for this pivotal moment. Tired Souls introduces audiences to Jo Ann Robinson, Claudette Colvin, and others so instrumental in lighting a fire under the Civil Rights movement and changing the course of U.S. history forever.
Join us for a Q&A with playwright and performer Mike Wiley following each performance.
The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA) is proud to announce its first-ever craft exhibit: Returning to the Ridge: Blue Ridge Craft Trails Exhibition. This landmark event will bring together the exceptional talents of 33 artists featured on the Blue Ridge Craft Trails (BRCT), showcasing the vibrant artistic landscape of Western North Carolina. Mars Landing Galleries, owned by Miryam Rojas and located at 37 Library Street, Mars Hill, NC 28754, will serve as the venue for this celebration of craft from July 2 to September 28, 2025.
Southern Appalachia’s artistic spirit, deeply rooted in its beautiful natural environment, will be on full display. From the intricate details of pottery to the masterful craftsmanship of woodworking, the exhibition will feature 60 pieces spanning a diverse range of traditional mediums, including fiber art, printmaking, metalworking (including jewelry), and basketry. This celebration of local artistry comes at a crucial time, as Hurricane Helene impacted many artists. Artists participating are from the central and western sections of BRNHA’s 25-county footprint, encompassing the NC mountains and the Qualla Boundary.
The gallery’s regular hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm. Adding to the visitor experience, the exhibition coincides with three First Friday events in Downtown Mars Hill – July 4, August 1, and September 5. On these evenings, the downtown area, including Mars Landing Galleries (open 5 pm – 8 pm, with live music), will offer extended hours, inviting the community to explore local shops, restaurants, galleries and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Our latest exhibition, Iron and Ink: Prints from America’s Machine Age, focuses on a dynamic era in American history when industrialization and advances in technology transformed urban landscapes and redefined the nature of work and leisure nationwide.
Showcasing Collection prints from 1905 to the 1940s, Iron and Ink explores connections between industrial labor, urbanization, and the growing middle class. The exhibition highlights works by Works Progress Administration artists from the 1930s whose powerful images of machinery, skyscrapers, and daily life—both at work and recreation—capture this transformational era in American society.
This exhibition is organized by the Asheville Art Museum and Robin Klaus, PhD, assistant curator.
The Asheville Art Museum presents Native America: In Translation, an
exhibition curated by Apsáalooke artist Wendy Red Star, on view from May 22 through November 3,
2025. Featuring work by seven Indigenous photographers and lens-based artists from across North
America, the exhibition explores urgent questions of identity, heritage, land rights, and the ongoing
impact of colonialism.
Building on Red Star’s role as guest editor of the Fall 2020 issue of Aperture magazine, Native
America: In Translation continues the conversation through personal and often experimental visual
storytelling. Using self-portraits, performance-based imagery, and multimedia assemblages, the
artists offer new perspectives on Native life and representation today.
August 20–31, 2025 | Presented in partnership with North Carolina Stage Company and Mike Wiley Productions
The YMI Cultural Center is proud to host Tired Souls: King and the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a powerful stage production that brings to life the early days of the Civil Rights Movement and the pivotal leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Running Wednesdays through Sundays, the play offers both evening and matinee showings to accommodate diverse audiences.
Special programming includes:
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HBCU/NPHC Nights on Fridays
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Sliding Scale Admission on Wednesdays and Thursdays
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Sunday Matinees designed with Black faith communities in mind
Stay tuned for special BIPOC ticket promotions, offered exclusively by the YMI.
Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience that honors the spirit of resistance and the power of community.
Join us on August 29th through September 1st for the 2025 NC Apple Festival in downtown Hendersonville, North Carolina, for a fun-filled celebration of apples, local culture, and community spirit. Whether you’re here for the delicious apple-inspired treats, the exciting street fair, or the family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone!
We’re thrilled to bring together over 250,000 visitors each year to celebrate the rich heritage of Henderson County’s apple-growing tradition. From the vibrant parade to live music, and of course, the best apples around, the festival is a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss!
We can’t wait to see you at the NC Apple Festival, where community, family, and fun come together in the heart of Hendersonville.
Plein Air Painting
with Erika Busse
Monday, September 1 | 9am – 11am
There is no better way to relax and connect with your creative side and nature than en plein air painting. In this class, artist Erika Busse will teach you how to paint an original Appalachian inspired artwork outside at the beautiful North Carolina Arboretum. She will take you through each step of the painting process, all skill levels are welcomed and all supplies are provided.
Following a sold-out Greenville premiere, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical MJ is making a victorious return to the Peace Center. Created by Tony Award-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond Michael Jackson’s singular moves and signature sound, offering a rare glimpse at the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the show that’s electrifying crowds on Broadway; in cities across North America; London’s West End; Hamburg, Germany; and Sydney, Australia once again at the Peace Center.
Botanical Drawing for Beginners
with Camille Daunno
Tuesday, September 2 | 11 am – 1 pm
During this beginner level class, you will learn several drawing techniques including line, shading, pen and ink. We will discuss composition with contour, contrast and texture and how to use watercolor to complete your drawing. We will experiment with different techniques to enhance your personal style. All materials and supplies will be provided.
Following a sold-out Greenville premiere, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical MJ is making a victorious return to the Peace Center. Created by Tony Award-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond Michael Jackson’s singular moves and signature sound, offering a rare glimpse at the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the show that’s electrifying crowds on Broadway; in cities across North America; London’s West End; Hamburg, Germany; and Sydney, Australia once again at the Peace Center.
The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA) is proud to announce its first-ever craft exhibit: Returning to the Ridge: Blue Ridge Craft Trails Exhibition. This landmark event will bring together the exceptional talents of 33 artists featured on the Blue Ridge Craft Trails (BRCT), showcasing the vibrant artistic landscape of Western North Carolina. Mars Landing Galleries, owned by Miryam Rojas and located at 37 Library Street, Mars Hill, NC 28754, will serve as the venue for this celebration of craft from July 2 to September 28, 2025.
Southern Appalachia’s artistic spirit, deeply rooted in its beautiful natural environment, will be on full display. From the intricate details of pottery to the masterful craftsmanship of woodworking, the exhibition will feature 60 pieces spanning a diverse range of traditional mediums, including fiber art, printmaking, metalworking (including jewelry), and basketry. This celebration of local artistry comes at a crucial time, as Hurricane Helene impacted many artists. Artists participating are from the central and western sections of BRNHA’s 25-county footprint, encompassing the NC mountains and the Qualla Boundary.
The gallery’s regular hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm. Adding to the visitor experience, the exhibition coincides with three First Friday events in Downtown Mars Hill – July 4, August 1, and September 5. On these evenings, the downtown area, including Mars Landing Galleries (open 5 pm – 8 pm, with live music), will offer extended hours, inviting the community to explore local shops, restaurants, galleries and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Our latest exhibition, Iron and Ink: Prints from America’s Machine Age, focuses on a dynamic era in American history when industrialization and advances in technology transformed urban landscapes and redefined the nature of work and leisure nationwide.
Showcasing Collection prints from 1905 to the 1940s, Iron and Ink explores connections between industrial labor, urbanization, and the growing middle class. The exhibition highlights works by Works Progress Administration artists from the 1930s whose powerful images of machinery, skyscrapers, and daily life—both at work and recreation—capture this transformational era in American society.
This exhibition is organized by the Asheville Art Museum and Robin Klaus, PhD, assistant curator.
The Asheville Art Museum presents Native America: In Translation, an
exhibition curated by Apsáalooke artist Wendy Red Star, on view from May 22 through November 3,
2025. Featuring work by seven Indigenous photographers and lens-based artists from across North
America, the exhibition explores urgent questions of identity, heritage, land rights, and the ongoing
impact of colonialism.
Building on Red Star’s role as guest editor of the Fall 2020 issue of Aperture magazine, Native
America: In Translation continues the conversation through personal and often experimental visual
storytelling. Using self-portraits, performance-based imagery, and multimedia assemblages, the
artists offer new perspectives on Native life and representation today.
Following a sold-out Greenville premiere, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical MJ is making a victorious return to the Peace Center. Created by Tony Award-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond Michael Jackson’s singular moves and signature sound, offering a rare glimpse at the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the show that’s electrifying crowds on Broadway; in cities across North America; London’s West End; Hamburg, Germany; and Sydney, Australia once again at the Peace Center.
The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA) is proud to announce its first-ever craft exhibit: Returning to the Ridge: Blue Ridge Craft Trails Exhibition. This landmark event will bring together the exceptional talents of 33 artists featured on the Blue Ridge Craft Trails (BRCT), showcasing the vibrant artistic landscape of Western North Carolina. Mars Landing Galleries, owned by Miryam Rojas and located at 37 Library Street, Mars Hill, NC 28754, will serve as the venue for this celebration of craft from July 2 to September 28, 2025.
Southern Appalachia’s artistic spirit, deeply rooted in its beautiful natural environment, will be on full display. From the intricate details of pottery to the masterful craftsmanship of woodworking, the exhibition will feature 60 pieces spanning a diverse range of traditional mediums, including fiber art, printmaking, metalworking (including jewelry), and basketry. This celebration of local artistry comes at a crucial time, as Hurricane Helene impacted many artists. Artists participating are from the central and western sections of BRNHA’s 25-county footprint, encompassing the NC mountains and the Qualla Boundary.
The gallery’s regular hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm. Adding to the visitor experience, the exhibition coincides with three First Friday events in Downtown Mars Hill – July 4, August 1, and September 5. On these evenings, the downtown area, including Mars Landing Galleries (open 5 pm – 8 pm, with live music), will offer extended hours, inviting the community to explore local shops, restaurants, galleries and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Our latest exhibition, Iron and Ink: Prints from America’s Machine Age, focuses on a dynamic era in American history when industrialization and advances in technology transformed urban landscapes and redefined the nature of work and leisure nationwide.
Showcasing Collection prints from 1905 to the 1940s, Iron and Ink explores connections between industrial labor, urbanization, and the growing middle class. The exhibition highlights works by Works Progress Administration artists from the 1930s whose powerful images of machinery, skyscrapers, and daily life—both at work and recreation—capture this transformational era in American society.
This exhibition is organized by the Asheville Art Museum and Robin Klaus, PhD, assistant curator.
The Asheville Art Museum presents Native America: In Translation, an
exhibition curated by Apsáalooke artist Wendy Red Star, on view from May 22 through November 3,
2025. Featuring work by seven Indigenous photographers and lens-based artists from across North
America, the exhibition explores urgent questions of identity, heritage, land rights, and the ongoing
impact of colonialism.
Building on Red Star’s role as guest editor of the Fall 2020 issue of Aperture magazine, Native
America: In Translation continues the conversation through personal and often experimental visual
storytelling. Using self-portraits, performance-based imagery, and multimedia assemblages, the
artists offer new perspectives on Native life and representation today.
Unleash your creativity and enjoy a relaxing evening at our La Mer themed Paint & Pour event! Sample one of the many craft beers from New Groove Artisanal Brewery, a local favorite in Boiling Springs known for its inventive music-themed tap list. While you sip, channel your inner Impressionist during a guided painting session led by talented local artist Jennifer L. Bonner, who will walk you through each brushstroke in a fun, approachable style perfect for beginners and seasoned painters alike. Your ticket includes one free drink to get you started, and the class will run from 6 to 9 PM, giving you plenty of time to create your own masterpiece while soaking in the laid-back, artistic atmosphere.
September 5 – 28
Whodunit? Detective Poirot is determined to find out in Agatha Christie’s thrilling murder mystery. Passengers aboard the opulent Orient Express awake to frightful news: Overnight, the American business mogul among them was stabbed to death behind locked doors. Thankfully, debonair detective Hercule Poirot is on the train and on the case and suddenly every passenger becomes a suspect. Tensions rise as Poirot searches for the killer lurking in their midst and who just may strike again. All aboard for a suspenseful evening that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Event Times: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Ticket Prices: $50 / $60 / $70
Child Pricing Available (17 & under)

Following a sold-out Greenville premiere, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical MJ is making a victorious return to the Peace Center. Created by Tony Award-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond Michael Jackson’s singular moves and signature sound, offering a rare glimpse at the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the show that’s electrifying crowds on Broadway; in cities across North America; London’s West End; Hamburg, Germany; and Sydney, Australia once again at the Peace Center.
The NC Mountain State Fair, September 5th-14th, 2025, is a truly memorable family event that offers top-notch entertainment, food, fun, and exhibits, that focuses on the region’s deep agricultural roots.
The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA) is proud to announce its first-ever craft exhibit: Returning to the Ridge: Blue Ridge Craft Trails Exhibition. This landmark event will bring together the exceptional talents of 33 artists featured on the Blue Ridge Craft Trails (BRCT), showcasing the vibrant artistic landscape of Western North Carolina. Mars Landing Galleries, owned by Miryam Rojas and located at 37 Library Street, Mars Hill, NC 28754, will serve as the venue for this celebration of craft from July 2 to September 28, 2025.
Southern Appalachia’s artistic spirit, deeply rooted in its beautiful natural environment, will be on full display. From the intricate details of pottery to the masterful craftsmanship of woodworking, the exhibition will feature 60 pieces spanning a diverse range of traditional mediums, including fiber art, printmaking, metalworking (including jewelry), and basketry. This celebration of local artistry comes at a crucial time, as Hurricane Helene impacted many artists. Artists participating are from the central and western sections of BRNHA’s 25-county footprint, encompassing the NC mountains and the Qualla Boundary.
The gallery’s regular hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm. Adding to the visitor experience, the exhibition coincides with three First Friday events in Downtown Mars Hill – July 4, August 1, and September 5. On these evenings, the downtown area, including Mars Landing Galleries (open 5 pm – 8 pm, with live music), will offer extended hours, inviting the community to explore local shops, restaurants, galleries and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Our latest exhibition, Iron and Ink: Prints from America’s Machine Age, focuses on a dynamic era in American history when industrialization and advances in technology transformed urban landscapes and redefined the nature of work and leisure nationwide.
Showcasing Collection prints from 1905 to the 1940s, Iron and Ink explores connections between industrial labor, urbanization, and the growing middle class. The exhibition highlights works by Works Progress Administration artists from the 1930s whose powerful images of machinery, skyscrapers, and daily life—both at work and recreation—capture this transformational era in American society.
This exhibition is organized by the Asheville Art Museum and Robin Klaus, PhD, assistant curator.
The Asheville Art Museum presents Native America: In Translation, an
exhibition curated by Apsáalooke artist Wendy Red Star, on view from May 22 through November 3,
2025. Featuring work by seven Indigenous photographers and lens-based artists from across North
America, the exhibition explores urgent questions of identity, heritage, land rights, and the ongoing
impact of colonialism.
Building on Red Star’s role as guest editor of the Fall 2020 issue of Aperture magazine, Native
America: In Translation continues the conversation through personal and often experimental visual
storytelling. Using self-portraits, performance-based imagery, and multimedia assemblages, the
artists offer new perspectives on Native life and representation today.
Come make this textured and riveted sterling silver ring in a hands on workshop at Ignite Jewelry Studios. A qualified instructor will safely take you through the steps until your piece is complete. You’ll use a variety of common metalsmithing tools including a torch, rolling mill, and more!
Choose from 4 textures: Hammered/ Striped/Boho/Smooth
All materials included! Make it to your size.
Also makes a unique wedding band, fabulous bachelorette event, or team building!
King Lear is a tragic tale of a king who divides his kingdom between his daughters, sparking betrayal, madness, and ruin. As Lear grapples with his decisions, he is betrayed by two of his daughters, while the loyalty of his youngest, Cordelia, leads to heartbreak and tragedy. Shows are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 7:30 each night by the Montford Park Players. And always FREE! No Sunday performances for the last weekend of each show.
September 5 – 28
Whodunit? Detective Poirot is determined to find out in Agatha Christie’s thrilling murder mystery. Passengers aboard the opulent Orient Express awake to frightful news: Overnight, the American business mogul among them was stabbed to death behind locked doors. Thankfully, debonair detective Hercule Poirot is on the train and on the case and suddenly every passenger becomes a suspect. Tensions rise as Poirot searches for the killer lurking in their midst and who just may strike again. All aboard for a suspenseful evening that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Event Times: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Ticket Prices: $50 / $60 / $70
Child Pricing Available (17 & under)

Following a sold-out Greenville premiere, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical MJ is making a victorious return to the Peace Center. Created by Tony Award-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond Michael Jackson’s singular moves and signature sound, offering a rare glimpse at the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the show that’s electrifying crowds on Broadway; in cities across North America; London’s West End; Hamburg, Germany; and Sydney, Australia once again at the Peace Center.
The NC Mountain State Fair, September 5th-14th, 2025, is a truly memorable family event that offers top-notch entertainment, food, fun, and exhibits, that focuses on the region’s deep agricultural roots.
The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA) is proud to announce its first-ever craft exhibit: Returning to the Ridge: Blue Ridge Craft Trails Exhibition. This landmark event will bring together the exceptional talents of 33 artists featured on the Blue Ridge Craft Trails (BRCT), showcasing the vibrant artistic landscape of Western North Carolina. Mars Landing Galleries, owned by Miryam Rojas and located at 37 Library Street, Mars Hill, NC 28754, will serve as the venue for this celebration of craft from July 2 to September 28, 2025.
Southern Appalachia’s artistic spirit, deeply rooted in its beautiful natural environment, will be on full display. From the intricate details of pottery to the masterful craftsmanship of woodworking, the exhibition will feature 60 pieces spanning a diverse range of traditional mediums, including fiber art, printmaking, metalworking (including jewelry), and basketry. This celebration of local artistry comes at a crucial time, as Hurricane Helene impacted many artists. Artists participating are from the central and western sections of BRNHA’s 25-county footprint, encompassing the NC mountains and the Qualla Boundary.
The gallery’s regular hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm. Adding to the visitor experience, the exhibition coincides with three First Friday events in Downtown Mars Hill – July 4, August 1, and September 5. On these evenings, the downtown area, including Mars Landing Galleries (open 5 pm – 8 pm, with live music), will offer extended hours, inviting the community to explore local shops, restaurants, galleries and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
