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.

Thursday, May 16, 2024
Digital: ASAP’s 2024–25 Local Food Guide
May 16 all-day
online w/ ASAP

ASAP’s Local Food Guide, the annual free publication for finding local food and farms, is updated for the 2024–25 season. This definitive resource lists hundreds of Appalachian GrownTM certified farms, farmers markets, restaurants, groceries, artisan producers, and more throughout Western North Carolina and surrounding counties in Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. A digital version of the print Guide may be viewed at asapconnections.org/guide.

 

In addition to listing content, the 2024–25 edition features stories that highlight the variety of farming across the region. Delia Jovel Dubón of Tierra Fértil Coop (pictured on the cover) talks about creating a sense of belonging for the Hispanic immigrant community in Henderson County. Lyric and Noah East of Wild East Farm in McDowell County detail the journey through their first full year of farming and how they’ve arrived at “a rough draft that’s working.” Kaci Nidiffer of The Liar’s Table in Avery County shares how scaling up and opening several retail spaces have created stronger connections with customers and community. Rounding out the issue are recipes from farmers at Two Trees Farm (Sustainabillies), Lee’s One Fortune Farm, Two Stones Farm + Mill, Carringer Farms, and Terra Lingua Growers.

 

“The Local Food Guide is such a beautiful way to share the stories of this place,” said Sarah Hart, ASAP’s Communications and Engagement Director. “To emphasize that sense of place, listings in this year’s Guide are organized into nine subregions with a short intro on what makes local farms in each area unique.”

 

Look for the Guide at farmers markets, visitors centers, libraries, groceries, restaurants, and other partner businesses throughout the region. Copies of the Guide are also available to pick up in the lobby of ASAP’s office in Asheville at 306 W. Haywood St., Tuesday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact ASAP if you need help locating a copy in your area or if you are interested in distributing Guides at your business.

 

In addition to the print Guide, ASAP maintains the online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org. This database, with more than 1,400 listings, is updated throughout the year and is searchable by products, location, activities, and more.

 

Funding for the Local Food Guide was made possible in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Agricultural Marketing Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer Rancher Development Program, Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program, and Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. Support was also provided by Dogwood Health Trust, the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, and Asheville Regional Airport.

Recreation Park Swimming Pool
May 16 all-day
Recreation Park

Swimming Pools

Asheville Parks & Recreation’s public pools provide safe and affordable outdoor summer fun for all ages. For info about pool schedules, please call 828-348-4770 or visit ashevillecitypools.com.

Malvern Hills Park’s 90 year-old outdoor pool will not open this summer. While we were able to keep the facility operational through last summer, the pool can no longer be repaired to safely meet the needs of our community. For more, read this article.

Admission

  • Individual – $3 per session
  • Individual Season Pass – $100
  • Family Season Pass – $150 (up to four individuals)

Locations

Events

  • Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts hundreds of free and low-cost activities, programs, and events each month. Check out the latest program guide.
  • Pools will open Saturday, May 25!

    Dates of Operation:
    Grant Center Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Sunday, August 11th
    Recreation Park Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Monday, September 2nd, weekends only from
    August 12th through September 2nd

    Pools open weekends only until June 10th, with the exception of Monday, May 27!

    Hours of Operation June 10 through August 11:
    Monday through Friday – 12:00pm-6:00pm
    Saturday – 11:00am-6:00pm
    Sunday – 1:00pm-6:00pm

    Cost is $3 per person per day

Summer Adult Kickball League—–registration open
May 16 all-day
online

Play like a kid again in Buncombe County Parks & Recreation’s first summer adult co-ed kickball league! The league will take place over the span of 4 weeks, culminating in a final game where all teams will have the chance to compete for the title. Games will take place on every Tuesday during the month of June from 6-8 p.m. at Charles D. Owen Park (875 Warren Wilson Road in Swannanoa). Each game will last 45 minutes, or 7 innings.

This kickball league prioritizes recreational enjoyment over competitiveness, and emphasizes a social environment where participants can make new friends while having fun. Participants of all skill levels and backgrounds are welcome. “Kickball is a timeless sport that encourages friendly competition, laughter and exercise,” says Program Coordinator, Mac Stanley. “This is a wonderful way to spend time with friends at one of our many beautiful parks.”

Registration for the kickball league opens on May 6, and closes on May 24. There must be 4 teams total, with a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 15 players per team. The cost to participate is $150 per team. All team members must be over 18 years old. The opening game is scheduled for Tuesday, June 4th at 6:00 p.m. on Field 1 at Charles D. Owen Park. A full game schedule will be provided to team captains prior to the start of the season. Teams can register here

Email [email protected] for additional information.

Flat Rock Farmers Market
May 16 @ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Pinecrest Presbyterian Church

Bringing Local Farm Fresh Food to your Table

 Opening Day- 5/4/23

Join us on Thursdays from 3-6 pm through October

 

Celebrating over 15 years of bringing fresh, local produce and handcrafted goods to the community of Flat Rock NC.
Join us every Thursday, May – October at our location at Pinecrest Presbyterian Church at the corner of Upward Rd and Greenville Hwy. 

Enka-Candler Farmer’s Market
May 16 @ 3:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Enka-Candler Farmer’s Market

Buncombe County farmers markets are opening throughout April and May—or, for year-round markets, shifting back to regular season hours. Spring markets offer an array of produce as well as meat, cheese, eggs, bread, prepared foods, and a wide selection of plant starts.

 

Nine markets in Buncombe County will continue to offer ASAP’s Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables and Farm Fresh Produce Prescription.

Friday, May 17, 2024
BRING ON SPRING w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
May 17 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

 

Digital: ASAP’s 2024–25 Local Food Guide
May 17 all-day
online w/ ASAP

ASAP’s Local Food Guide, the annual free publication for finding local food and farms, is updated for the 2024–25 season. This definitive resource lists hundreds of Appalachian GrownTM certified farms, farmers markets, restaurants, groceries, artisan producers, and more throughout Western North Carolina and surrounding counties in Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. A digital version of the print Guide may be viewed at asapconnections.org/guide.

 

In addition to listing content, the 2024–25 edition features stories that highlight the variety of farming across the region. Delia Jovel Dubón of Tierra Fértil Coop (pictured on the cover) talks about creating a sense of belonging for the Hispanic immigrant community in Henderson County. Lyric and Noah East of Wild East Farm in McDowell County detail the journey through their first full year of farming and how they’ve arrived at “a rough draft that’s working.” Kaci Nidiffer of The Liar’s Table in Avery County shares how scaling up and opening several retail spaces have created stronger connections with customers and community. Rounding out the issue are recipes from farmers at Two Trees Farm (Sustainabillies), Lee’s One Fortune Farm, Two Stones Farm + Mill, Carringer Farms, and Terra Lingua Growers.

 

“The Local Food Guide is such a beautiful way to share the stories of this place,” said Sarah Hart, ASAP’s Communications and Engagement Director. “To emphasize that sense of place, listings in this year’s Guide are organized into nine subregions with a short intro on what makes local farms in each area unique.”

 

Look for the Guide at farmers markets, visitors centers, libraries, groceries, restaurants, and other partner businesses throughout the region. Copies of the Guide are also available to pick up in the lobby of ASAP’s office in Asheville at 306 W. Haywood St., Tuesday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact ASAP if you need help locating a copy in your area or if you are interested in distributing Guides at your business.

 

In addition to the print Guide, ASAP maintains the online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org. This database, with more than 1,400 listings, is updated throughout the year and is searchable by products, location, activities, and more.

 

Funding for the Local Food Guide was made possible in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Agricultural Marketing Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer Rancher Development Program, Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program, and Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. Support was also provided by Dogwood Health Trust, the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, and Asheville Regional Airport.

Recreation Park Swimming Pool
May 17 all-day
Recreation Park

Swimming Pools

Asheville Parks & Recreation’s public pools provide safe and affordable outdoor summer fun for all ages. For info about pool schedules, please call 828-348-4770 or visit ashevillecitypools.com.

Malvern Hills Park’s 90 year-old outdoor pool will not open this summer. While we were able to keep the facility operational through last summer, the pool can no longer be repaired to safely meet the needs of our community. For more, read this article.

Admission

  • Individual – $3 per session
  • Individual Season Pass – $100
  • Family Season Pass – $150 (up to four individuals)

Locations

Events

  • Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts hundreds of free and low-cost activities, programs, and events each month. Check out the latest program guide.
  • Pools will open Saturday, May 25!

    Dates of Operation:
    Grant Center Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Sunday, August 11th
    Recreation Park Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Monday, September 2nd, weekends only from
    August 12th through September 2nd

    Pools open weekends only until June 10th, with the exception of Monday, May 27!

    Hours of Operation June 10 through August 11:
    Monday through Friday – 12:00pm-6:00pm
    Saturday – 11:00am-6:00pm
    Sunday – 1:00pm-6:00pm

    Cost is $3 per person per day

Summer Adult Kickball League—–registration open
May 17 all-day
online

Play like a kid again in Buncombe County Parks & Recreation’s first summer adult co-ed kickball league! The league will take place over the span of 4 weeks, culminating in a final game where all teams will have the chance to compete for the title. Games will take place on every Tuesday during the month of June from 6-8 p.m. at Charles D. Owen Park (875 Warren Wilson Road in Swannanoa). Each game will last 45 minutes, or 7 innings.

This kickball league prioritizes recreational enjoyment over competitiveness, and emphasizes a social environment where participants can make new friends while having fun. Participants of all skill levels and backgrounds are welcome. “Kickball is a timeless sport that encourages friendly competition, laughter and exercise,” says Program Coordinator, Mac Stanley. “This is a wonderful way to spend time with friends at one of our many beautiful parks.”

Registration for the kickball league opens on May 6, and closes on May 24. There must be 4 teams total, with a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 15 players per team. The cost to participate is $150 per team. All team members must be over 18 years old. The opening game is scheduled for Tuesday, June 4th at 6:00 p.m. on Field 1 at Charles D. Owen Park. A full game schedule will be provided to team captains prior to the start of the season. Teams can register here

Email [email protected] for additional information.

East Asheville Tailgate Market
May 17 @ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
East Asheville Tailgate Market

🖤 Vendor list drop! Welcome new vendors @blazingstarflowers @djspickles and @monkasbakery and welcome back @wildgoodsforaging!

Buncombe County will continue to offer ASAP’s Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables and Farm Fresh Produce Prescription.

Celebrate National Tennis Month: Free Drill Clinic and Wilson Racquet Demo
May 17 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Hendersonville Racquet Club

National Tennis Month is a nationwide grassroots effort driven by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and its industry partners celebrating tennis, a sport which challenges one both physically and mentally. For 31 straight days, players, local coaches, facilities, retailers, tennis manufacturers and more will be driving awareness about the sport and its benefits by bringing existing and new players to the game with special events, promotions and play opportunities in their communities … many of them FREE.

Tennis participation has seen growth for four consecutive years, with people turning to the sport to stay physically fit in a safe manner. According to the latest Physical Activity Council’s participation report, more than 23.8 million people hit the tennis courts in 2023.  That number represents a 25% increase since the start of 2020, with 6.2M more players picking up a racquet. In addition, according to multiple sources and studies, tennis has been shown to have a significant positive impact on the health of participants. Tennis players on average lived an additional 9.7 years than sedentary individuals.

“The increase in tennis participation for the third year in a row is not only important for the health of our sport, but also for the health and well-being of those who have made the game a part of their lives,” said Brian Hainline, Chairman of the Board and President, USTA. “Tennis has a multitude of benefits, ranging from the mental to the physical, and we are excited to help lead the continued growth of a sport that helps players of all ages and ability levels stay active and healthy.”

 

For more information about National Tennis Month, visit USTA.com/NationalTennisMonth or search hashtag #NationalTennisMonth on social media.

Saturday, May 18, 2024
BRING ON SPRING w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
May 18 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

 

Digital: ASAP’s 2024–25 Local Food Guide
May 18 all-day
online w/ ASAP

ASAP’s Local Food Guide, the annual free publication for finding local food and farms, is updated for the 2024–25 season. This definitive resource lists hundreds of Appalachian GrownTM certified farms, farmers markets, restaurants, groceries, artisan producers, and more throughout Western North Carolina and surrounding counties in Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. A digital version of the print Guide may be viewed at asapconnections.org/guide.

 

In addition to listing content, the 2024–25 edition features stories that highlight the variety of farming across the region. Delia Jovel Dubón of Tierra Fértil Coop (pictured on the cover) talks about creating a sense of belonging for the Hispanic immigrant community in Henderson County. Lyric and Noah East of Wild East Farm in McDowell County detail the journey through their first full year of farming and how they’ve arrived at “a rough draft that’s working.” Kaci Nidiffer of The Liar’s Table in Avery County shares how scaling up and opening several retail spaces have created stronger connections with customers and community. Rounding out the issue are recipes from farmers at Two Trees Farm (Sustainabillies), Lee’s One Fortune Farm, Two Stones Farm + Mill, Carringer Farms, and Terra Lingua Growers.

 

“The Local Food Guide is such a beautiful way to share the stories of this place,” said Sarah Hart, ASAP’s Communications and Engagement Director. “To emphasize that sense of place, listings in this year’s Guide are organized into nine subregions with a short intro on what makes local farms in each area unique.”

 

Look for the Guide at farmers markets, visitors centers, libraries, groceries, restaurants, and other partner businesses throughout the region. Copies of the Guide are also available to pick up in the lobby of ASAP’s office in Asheville at 306 W. Haywood St., Tuesday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact ASAP if you need help locating a copy in your area or if you are interested in distributing Guides at your business.

 

In addition to the print Guide, ASAP maintains the online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org. This database, with more than 1,400 listings, is updated throughout the year and is searchable by products, location, activities, and more.

 

Funding for the Local Food Guide was made possible in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Agricultural Marketing Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer Rancher Development Program, Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program, and Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. Support was also provided by Dogwood Health Trust, the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, and Asheville Regional Airport.

Recreation Park Swimming Pool
May 18 all-day
Recreation Park

Swimming Pools

Asheville Parks & Recreation’s public pools provide safe and affordable outdoor summer fun for all ages. For info about pool schedules, please call 828-348-4770 or visit ashevillecitypools.com.

Malvern Hills Park’s 90 year-old outdoor pool will not open this summer. While we were able to keep the facility operational through last summer, the pool can no longer be repaired to safely meet the needs of our community. For more, read this article.

Admission

  • Individual – $3 per session
  • Individual Season Pass – $100
  • Family Season Pass – $150 (up to four individuals)

Locations

Events

  • Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts hundreds of free and low-cost activities, programs, and events each month. Check out the latest program guide.
  • Pools will open Saturday, May 25!

    Dates of Operation:
    Grant Center Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Sunday, August 11th
    Recreation Park Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Monday, September 2nd, weekends only from
    August 12th through September 2nd

    Pools open weekends only until June 10th, with the exception of Monday, May 27!

    Hours of Operation June 10 through August 11:
    Monday through Friday – 12:00pm-6:00pm
    Saturday – 11:00am-6:00pm
    Sunday – 1:00pm-6:00pm

    Cost is $3 per person per day

Summer Adult Kickball League—–registration open
May 18 all-day
online

Play like a kid again in Buncombe County Parks & Recreation’s first summer adult co-ed kickball league! The league will take place over the span of 4 weeks, culminating in a final game where all teams will have the chance to compete for the title. Games will take place on every Tuesday during the month of June from 6-8 p.m. at Charles D. Owen Park (875 Warren Wilson Road in Swannanoa). Each game will last 45 minutes, or 7 innings.

This kickball league prioritizes recreational enjoyment over competitiveness, and emphasizes a social environment where participants can make new friends while having fun. Participants of all skill levels and backgrounds are welcome. “Kickball is a timeless sport that encourages friendly competition, laughter and exercise,” says Program Coordinator, Mac Stanley. “This is a wonderful way to spend time with friends at one of our many beautiful parks.”

Registration for the kickball league opens on May 6, and closes on May 24. There must be 4 teams total, with a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 15 players per team. The cost to participate is $150 per team. All team members must be over 18 years old. The opening game is scheduled for Tuesday, June 4th at 6:00 p.m. on Field 1 at Charles D. Owen Park. A full game schedule will be provided to team captains prior to the start of the season. Teams can register here

Email [email protected] for additional information.

Henderson County Tailgate Market
May 18 @ 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Henderson County Tailgate Market

Every Saturday from 8am-12pm, This is the 44th year for this
weekly tailgate market, where vendors sell fresh-picked seasonal vegetables and fruit, local honey, cut flowers, plant starts and
more, The market will be open through October. L

Hendersonville Farmers Market
May 18 @ 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Historic Train Depot

Hendersonville Farmers Market in front of the Historic Train Depot, 8am-1pm, Hendersonville Farmers Market aims to be a world-class market that contributes to the success of local producers and growers, expands access to farm fresh foods, and creates a
vibrant community gathering space. With fresh produce, meats, baked goods, crafts, live entertainment, food trucks, and more,
it’s a weekly outing with something for everybody! Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere celebrating food, farm and family with
live music every Saturday! At least 30 vendors from within a 60-mile radius participate in each market, offering produce, meat,
eggs, dairy, honey, baked goods, crafts, beverages, and more. Special events such as Tomato Day, Wellness Day and
Juneteenth Celebration will occur at the market regularly throughout the season. Food trucks will also be a staple, allowing
visitors to enjoy breakfast or lunch on their farmers market adventure

Mills River Farmer’s Market
May 18 @ 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Mills River School

Mills River Farmers’ Market, 8am-12pm, This weekly market is a producer-only market, selling only products raised or produced
within 50 miles, special events include live music, educational stations, a demonstration station and a Kid’s Zone, vendors sell
items including vegetables, fruits, meat, eggs, high-quality crafts and more, Located at Mills River Elementary School,

North Asheville Tailgate Market
May 18 @ 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
North Asheville Tailgate Market

Shoppers at the market

Welcome to Western NC’s most premier farmers market!

Since 1980, we have been providing Asheville and the surrounding area with a full range of local, sustainably produced produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, breads, plants, prepared foods and crafts. Day vendors complement the members’ offerings with additional products and services.

The North Asheville Tailgate Market is a weekly, Saturday morning gathering of the best farmers, craftsmen, and bakers. With over 40 vendors and more than 40,000 annual customers, the market’s energetic and warm environment welcomes all.

Asheville City Market
May 18 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Asheville City Market

Visit the Market

WHEN: Saturday mornings, 9 a.m.–12 p.m., April–Dec. Winter market hours: 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Jan.–March. No market the last two weeks of the year.

WHERE: North Market Street between Woodfin and Walnut streets in downtown Asheville. The street is closed to traffic during market times.

GETTING HERE: Free parking for customers is available at the HomeTrust Bank lot and at the Family Justice Center lot across from the YMCA at 35 Woodfin Street. Handicapped parking is available. There is a bus stop on the N1 and N2 routes one block away, on Broadway. Buses stop at both Woodfin and Walnut streets.

Stay up to date on market news via FacebookInstagram, and weekly e-newsletters.

Find Out More About

Vendors

Asheville City Market is a producer-only market, which means that all farm vendors grow or raise the products they are selling themselves. For non-farm vendors (such as prepared food, seafood, coffee), preference is given to products and foods prepared or processed locally or made with locally sourced ingredients.

The list below reflects vendors for the entire season, but not all will attend market each week. Sign up for the Asheville City Market e-newsletter to see the weekly vendor schedule.

Black Mountain Tailgate Market
May 18 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Black Mountain Tailgate Market

Black Mountain Tailgate Market

COME CELEBRATE!

OPEN FROM MAY – NOVEMBER :: 9AM – NOON

Our market is a seasonal Saturday morning community event featuring organic and sustainably grown produce, plants, cut flowers, herbs, locally raised meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheeses, eggs and local arts and handcrafted items. A family event every Saturday from May through November.

Visit us on Facebook!

Roller Derby Triple Header Bout
May 18 @ 2:00 pm
Smoky Mountain Event Center

BLUE RIDGE ROLLER DERBY TRIPLE HEADER BOUT
When: Saturday, May 18th, doors at 2 PM
Where: Smoky Mountain Event Center (758 Crabtree Rd, Waynesville, NC 28785)

Come experience multiple levels of derby play at Blue Ridge’s first home game of the 2024 Travel Team season! First, witness the Blue Ridge Junior Derby team in their EXPO bout. Then watch as the Blue Ridge Y’Allstars and then the Retrogrades take on Nashville Roller Derby in A- and B-level sanctioned bouts that will impact our INTERNATIONAL rankings!

Tickets available for purchase at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/1c28ea2f-f2aa-4a88-9062-e792fce01e2d

Doors open at 1:00 PM for an afternoon full of LIVE ROLLER DERBY at SMEC!
2:00 Juniors Expo Game (The Good Eggs vs. The Bad Seeds)
3:00 BRRD Y’allstars vs. Nashville A
5:00 BRRD Retrogrades vs. Nashville B

Online or At-The-Door Tickets: $10.00

All ages welcome, kids 11 and under are FREE. We will have a great menu of concessions, including plant-based options!

Proceeds from this event will go towards supporting the inclusive and fun space that Blue Ridge Roller Derby continually creates while playing a competitive sport on 8 wheels. BRRD is a non-profit organization that relies on the support of our community to provide action-packed, family-friendly fun on eight wheels.

If you’d like FREE admission and FREE food at the after party (held at the Odditorium in West Asheville), you can sign up to volunteer at this event: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F48AAAD2CA5FFCF8-48724040-blue#/

Check out our season schedule and more at blueridgerollerderby.com

Hendersonville Honeycrisps Baseball Home Game
May 18 @ 3:30 pm
Berkeley Ball Park

Come out to Berkeley Park aka ‘The Orchard’ for opening day to watch
the Hendersonville Honeycrisps vs Queen City Corndogs! You are bound to see great plays & big hits while you and your family
make memories and are entertained at the ball park!

Sunday, May 19, 2024
BRING ON SPRING w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
May 19 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

 

Digital: ASAP’s 2024–25 Local Food Guide
May 19 all-day
online w/ ASAP

ASAP’s Local Food Guide, the annual free publication for finding local food and farms, is updated for the 2024–25 season. This definitive resource lists hundreds of Appalachian GrownTM certified farms, farmers markets, restaurants, groceries, artisan producers, and more throughout Western North Carolina and surrounding counties in Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. A digital version of the print Guide may be viewed at asapconnections.org/guide.

 

In addition to listing content, the 2024–25 edition features stories that highlight the variety of farming across the region. Delia Jovel Dubón of Tierra Fértil Coop (pictured on the cover) talks about creating a sense of belonging for the Hispanic immigrant community in Henderson County. Lyric and Noah East of Wild East Farm in McDowell County detail the journey through their first full year of farming and how they’ve arrived at “a rough draft that’s working.” Kaci Nidiffer of The Liar’s Table in Avery County shares how scaling up and opening several retail spaces have created stronger connections with customers and community. Rounding out the issue are recipes from farmers at Two Trees Farm (Sustainabillies), Lee’s One Fortune Farm, Two Stones Farm + Mill, Carringer Farms, and Terra Lingua Growers.

 

“The Local Food Guide is such a beautiful way to share the stories of this place,” said Sarah Hart, ASAP’s Communications and Engagement Director. “To emphasize that sense of place, listings in this year’s Guide are organized into nine subregions with a short intro on what makes local farms in each area unique.”

 

Look for the Guide at farmers markets, visitors centers, libraries, groceries, restaurants, and other partner businesses throughout the region. Copies of the Guide are also available to pick up in the lobby of ASAP’s office in Asheville at 306 W. Haywood St., Tuesday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact ASAP if you need help locating a copy in your area or if you are interested in distributing Guides at your business.

 

In addition to the print Guide, ASAP maintains the online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org. This database, with more than 1,400 listings, is updated throughout the year and is searchable by products, location, activities, and more.

 

Funding for the Local Food Guide was made possible in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Agricultural Marketing Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer Rancher Development Program, Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program, and Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. Support was also provided by Dogwood Health Trust, the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, and Asheville Regional Airport.

Recreation Park Swimming Pool
May 19 all-day
Recreation Park

Swimming Pools

Asheville Parks & Recreation’s public pools provide safe and affordable outdoor summer fun for all ages. For info about pool schedules, please call 828-348-4770 or visit ashevillecitypools.com.

Malvern Hills Park’s 90 year-old outdoor pool will not open this summer. While we were able to keep the facility operational through last summer, the pool can no longer be repaired to safely meet the needs of our community. For more, read this article.

Admission

  • Individual – $3 per session
  • Individual Season Pass – $100
  • Family Season Pass – $150 (up to four individuals)

Locations

Events

  • Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts hundreds of free and low-cost activities, programs, and events each month. Check out the latest program guide.
  • Pools will open Saturday, May 25!

    Dates of Operation:
    Grant Center Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Sunday, August 11th
    Recreation Park Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Monday, September 2nd, weekends only from
    August 12th through September 2nd

    Pools open weekends only until June 10th, with the exception of Monday, May 27!

    Hours of Operation June 10 through August 11:
    Monday through Friday – 12:00pm-6:00pm
    Saturday – 11:00am-6:00pm
    Sunday – 1:00pm-6:00pm

    Cost is $3 per person per day

Southside Community Farmers Market
May 19 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Southside Community Farmers Market

Listing

About Southside Community Farmers Market

Buncombe County will continue to offer ASAP’s Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables and Farm Fresh Produce Prescription.

Southside Community Farm hosts a farmers market featuring all BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) vendors on the first Sunday of every month, May-Oct. from 12-3 PM. The market is EBT accessible. Come enjoy delicious patties, hot sauces, veggies, fruit, flowers, medicines, crafts and more!

Monday, May 20, 2024
Digital: ASAP’s 2024–25 Local Food Guide
May 20 all-day
online w/ ASAP

ASAP’s Local Food Guide, the annual free publication for finding local food and farms, is updated for the 2024–25 season. This definitive resource lists hundreds of Appalachian GrownTM certified farms, farmers markets, restaurants, groceries, artisan producers, and more throughout Western North Carolina and surrounding counties in Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. A digital version of the print Guide may be viewed at asapconnections.org/guide.

 

In addition to listing content, the 2024–25 edition features stories that highlight the variety of farming across the region. Delia Jovel Dubón of Tierra Fértil Coop (pictured on the cover) talks about creating a sense of belonging for the Hispanic immigrant community in Henderson County. Lyric and Noah East of Wild East Farm in McDowell County detail the journey through their first full year of farming and how they’ve arrived at “a rough draft that’s working.” Kaci Nidiffer of The Liar’s Table in Avery County shares how scaling up and opening several retail spaces have created stronger connections with customers and community. Rounding out the issue are recipes from farmers at Two Trees Farm (Sustainabillies), Lee’s One Fortune Farm, Two Stones Farm + Mill, Carringer Farms, and Terra Lingua Growers.

 

“The Local Food Guide is such a beautiful way to share the stories of this place,” said Sarah Hart, ASAP’s Communications and Engagement Director. “To emphasize that sense of place, listings in this year’s Guide are organized into nine subregions with a short intro on what makes local farms in each area unique.”

 

Look for the Guide at farmers markets, visitors centers, libraries, groceries, restaurants, and other partner businesses throughout the region. Copies of the Guide are also available to pick up in the lobby of ASAP’s office in Asheville at 306 W. Haywood St., Tuesday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact ASAP if you need help locating a copy in your area or if you are interested in distributing Guides at your business.

 

In addition to the print Guide, ASAP maintains the online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org. This database, with more than 1,400 listings, is updated throughout the year and is searchable by products, location, activities, and more.

 

Funding for the Local Food Guide was made possible in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Agricultural Marketing Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer Rancher Development Program, Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program, and Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. Support was also provided by Dogwood Health Trust, the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, and Asheville Regional Airport.

Recreation Park Swimming Pool
May 20 all-day
Recreation Park

Swimming Pools

Asheville Parks & Recreation’s public pools provide safe and affordable outdoor summer fun for all ages. For info about pool schedules, please call 828-348-4770 or visit ashevillecitypools.com.

Malvern Hills Park’s 90 year-old outdoor pool will not open this summer. While we were able to keep the facility operational through last summer, the pool can no longer be repaired to safely meet the needs of our community. For more, read this article.

Admission

  • Individual – $3 per session
  • Individual Season Pass – $100
  • Family Season Pass – $150 (up to four individuals)

Locations

Events

  • Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts hundreds of free and low-cost activities, programs, and events each month. Check out the latest program guide.
  • Pools will open Saturday, May 25!

    Dates of Operation:
    Grant Center Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Sunday, August 11th
    Recreation Park Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Monday, September 2nd, weekends only from
    August 12th through September 2nd

    Pools open weekends only until June 10th, with the exception of Monday, May 27!

    Hours of Operation June 10 through August 11:
    Monday through Friday – 12:00pm-6:00pm
    Saturday – 11:00am-6:00pm
    Sunday – 1:00pm-6:00pm

    Cost is $3 per person per day

Summer Adult Kickball League—–registration open
May 20 all-day
online

Play like a kid again in Buncombe County Parks & Recreation’s first summer adult co-ed kickball league! The league will take place over the span of 4 weeks, culminating in a final game where all teams will have the chance to compete for the title. Games will take place on every Tuesday during the month of June from 6-8 p.m. at Charles D. Owen Park (875 Warren Wilson Road in Swannanoa). Each game will last 45 minutes, or 7 innings.

This kickball league prioritizes recreational enjoyment over competitiveness, and emphasizes a social environment where participants can make new friends while having fun. Participants of all skill levels and backgrounds are welcome. “Kickball is a timeless sport that encourages friendly competition, laughter and exercise,” says Program Coordinator, Mac Stanley. “This is a wonderful way to spend time with friends at one of our many beautiful parks.”

Registration for the kickball league opens on May 6, and closes on May 24. There must be 4 teams total, with a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 15 players per team. The cost to participate is $150 per team. All team members must be over 18 years old. The opening game is scheduled for Tuesday, June 4th at 6:00 p.m. on Field 1 at Charles D. Owen Park. A full game schedule will be provided to team captains prior to the start of the season. Teams can register here

Email [email protected] for additional information.