Calendar of Events

The Blue Ridge Orchestra rings in the winter season with BRO Revels! 2025: A British Holiday—two festive performances featuring chamber and orchestral works by British composers Handel, Walton, Coleridge-Taylor, Holst, and more, followed by beloved holiday favorites performed by our full orchestra!

While our home at UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky Hall undergoes its 2-year renovation, we’re grateful to continue our partnership with UNCA students and the surrounding community. This temporary displacement gives us an exciting opportunity to expand our reach—bringing live orchestral music directly to audiences in Weaverville, Swannanoa, and communities across Western North Carolina. This season of giving, please consider supporting our mission to keep great orchestral performances accessible to all.

Details:

Saturday, December 6th, 2025, 3:00 pm
First Baptist Church of Weaverville
63 N Main St.
Weaverville, NC 28787

Sunday, December 7th, 2025, 3:00 pm
Warren Wilson Presbyterian Church
101 Chapel Ln.
Swannanoa, NC 28778

Tickets: $20 General Admission, $15 Students, Free 6 and under

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

What happens when a room full of humans walk on stage with no script… and only Love guiding the moment? Come witness the magic of a Spirited Improv Performance.

A Spirited Improv performance is unlike anything you’ve ever witnessed. More than entertainment, Spirited Improv is an enlivening emergent experience of collective creativity. It’s an improvisational showcase of the human spirit at play with invitations into music-making, dance, singing, acting, costumed silliness, story-telling, and ritual that deeply nourish the heart and soul. It offers a warm, playful, and safe container where laughter, tears, and connection flow freely.

Imagine entering a space where performers have no script, no plan, just a deep trust in Love, in each other, and in the creative aliveness of the moment. As an audience member, you are not just a passive witness; rather, you are part of the alchemy. You are invited to release judgment and practice radical acceptance of yourself and each human in the room, creating an encouraging play space for all. Whether you choose to simply offer your loving presence, share a prompt, tell a story, or step onto stage, you’re woven into the collective experience. What unfolds is spontaneous and sacred, hilarious and healing, shaped by the energy of Love in the room guiding it all.

Past audience member said, “Your spiritual improv was like going to a restaurant for the first time, and having one of the best meals of my life. I LOVED IT and was so grateful to have that unique experience of connection and healing.”

The North Carolina Writers Network West and The Brandy Bar + Cocktails present The Many Lives of Carl Sandburg – A PERFORMANCE as next in their series. In The Company of Writers’ program offers a series of personal and conversational dialogues featuring guest writers/poets, followed by an open mic forum. These inspirational gatherings will elucidate and entertain those attending. This month there is a special performance on the life of the famed author and poet, Carl Sandburg, that will introduce us to the works and music of the “poet of the people.” The acoustic music of Bob Sherrill welcomes you, continues during intermission, and closes the evening.
John Quinley wrote the book Discovering Carl Sandburg to inspire a new interest in this world-renowned author and “Poet of the People.” Sandburg, a Chicago native, spent the last 20-plus years of his life in Flat Rock, North Carolina, at Connemara, a 246-acre parcel, now a National Historic Site. After finishing his book, John decided to turn it into a play and use songs from Sandburg’s American Songbag as part of the performance, which he calls The Many Lives of Carl Sandburg. Director Karen Moore has gathered a talented group of actors to enact the pieces. The performance at The Brandy Bar + Cocktails includes cast members David Leader, Meredith Kuhn, Lyn Morton, Judi Ingram Adkins, Butch Adkins, Mark Zedella, and stage manager Phil Moore. Come enjoy a live performance of Carl Sandburg’s diverse prose, poetry and song.
For more info visit: https://www.facebook.com/TheBrandyBar/events

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

Join us for our performance of Vivaldi’s Gloria and beautiful carols, a celebration of the season filled with choral harmonies, candlelight, and joy. Listening to choral music by candlelight is an experience that feels suspended between sound and silence, light and shadow. The soft flicker of candles transforms the space. The usual sharpness of electric light is gone, replaced by something softer and timeless.

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

Tree Lighting: 6:00 pm, The Weaverville Tree on Main Street

Storytelling, Music, Gifts, Kids Crafts, and a Shuttle Service to Town: The Community Center and The Dry Ridge Museum offer a full night of festivities, AND a ride from Lake Louise to Main Street.

Scavenger Hunt: Holiday characters are hidden throughout Main Street!

Santa: As usual, Santa is hosted by Keller Williams Realty!

Cops 4 Kids: Donation jars are dispersed along Main Street.

Festive Singing and Caroling: Details to come as we get closer to our event!

🎄 Second Annual Christmas Spectacular! 🎄

Step into a Winter Wonderland and experience the magic of the season at our Second Annual Christmas Spectacular— a joyful holiday showcase filled with music, dance, and festive fun for the whole family!

This year’s show features an Enchanted Forest theme, complete with festive holiday songs, tap and jazz dancing, and breathtaking aerial silks performances. You’ll also enjoy reimagined Christmas classics and a show-stopping hip-hop Nutcracker number that’s sure to bring the house down!

Enjoy performances by our 1-Year Choir students, Chamber Choir, and Performance Media Crew (dance troupe), plus a special preview number from our upcoming production of The Lion King Jr. at Wortham Center for the Arts (Jan. 10 & 11).

✨ 3 Showtimes:

Friday, December 12 – 5:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 13 – 2:00 PM
📍 Location:
174 Bradley Branch, Unit 4/5, 28704
(Please enter from the front side of the building.)

☕ Refreshments will be available for sale, with all proceeds benefiting AJT.

❄️ Expect an indoor snowstorm and plenty of sparkle and surprises along the way!

🎫 Seating is general admission (first come, first served).

🌟 Tickets will sell out quickly! Last year’s two shows completely sold out — so this year we’ve added a third performance to make room for everyone. Don’t wait — grab your tickets early and join us for this heartwarming, high-energy holiday celebration!

🎟️ Purchase your seats today for a truly spectacular Christmas experience!

Winter Lights is excited to provide an all-new premium trolley experience, in partnership with Biltmore Park Town Square and Gray Line Trolley Tours! Skip the lines and ride the Winter Lights Trolley!

Enjoy dinner and shopping at Biltmore Park Town Square before hopping on the Winter Lights Trolley to experience Winter Lights!

Ride the Winter Lights Trolley Friday November 28 and select Fridays and Saturdays in December. Trolleys depart from Biltmore Park Town Square every half hour, beginning at 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $50 per-person and available select dates only.

Celebrate the magic of the season at the 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk—an enchanting outdoor story experience where live theater meets a whimsical walk through the woods! Created by Asheville Plays and hosted by the Adventure Center of Asheville, this immersive journey guides guests through the Kingdom of Winterland, where each page of the story comes to life with delightful characters and heartwarming surprises. This family-friendly event has been created with everyone in minde, no matter your age or what you may celebrate during the winter holiday season. Winter Wonder Walk includes the outdoor storywalk, a heated holiday tent featuring a local vendor market, a kids’ play area, and several tasty concession and beverage options. Guests ages 4+ can also enjoy the Treetops Adventure Park Glow Trail, aglow with thousands of twinkling lights. Every ticket purchased helps spread joy even further—each one supports MANNA FoodBank and their mission to feed our community.Kids 12 and younger can earn a free general admission ticket by participating in our “S’Mitten With Books” reading program! Bundle up and bring the whole family—it’s the perfect way to make magical memories and give back this holiday season!
2025 Dates: November 29 & 30 and December 6, 7, 13, 14
Festivities begin at 6 PM | Winter Wonder Walk opens at 6:30 PM
Tickets & FAQs at www.winterwonderwalk.com

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

Firestorm Books on Haywood Road is rebooting its annual holiday craft pop-up series, now in its sixth year! Featuring the work of 16+ local artists, this event will be a fundraiser for the Gaza Soup Kitchen and highlights affordable, giftable items that can only be found in Asheville.

This year’s craft pop-up will include two dates: Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th (the start of Hanukkah, ten days before Xmas Eve). Beginning at 11am and ending at 4pm, each date will have a different selection of artists showcasing baked goods, fiber arts, ceramics, art prints, jewelry, and more. The pop-up will take place outdoors at 1022 Haywood Road in West Asheville, or inside the bookstore at the same address in case of inclement weather.

Participating artists have committed to donate 25% of at least the first $250 in sales made to the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots NGO feeding thousands daily in Gaza. Attendees will have additional opportunities to support the lifesaving work of the humanitarian aid organization. More information on the Gaza Soup Kitchen can be found at https://gazasoupkitchen.org.

Firestorm Books on Haywood Road is rebooting its annual holiday craft pop-up series, now in its sixth year! Featuring the work of 16+ local artists, this event will be a fundraiser for the Gaza Soup Kitchen and highlights affordable, giftable items that can only be found in Asheville.

This year’s craft pop-up will include two dates: Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th (the start of Hanukkah, ten days before Xmas Eve). Beginning at 11am and ending at 4pm, each date will have a different selection of artists showcasing baked goods, fiber arts, ceramics, art prints, jewelry, and more. The pop-up will take place outdoors at 1022 Haywood Road in West Asheville, or inside the bookstore at the same address in case of inclement weather.

Participating artists have committed to donate 25% of at least the first $250 in sales made to the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots NGO feeding thousands daily in Gaza. Attendees will have additional opportunities to support the lifesaving work of the humanitarian aid organization. More information on the Gaza Soup Kitchen can be found at https://gazasoupkitchen.org.

Firestorm Books on Haywood Road is rebooting its annual holiday craft pop-up series, now in its sixth year! Featuring the work of 16+ local artists, this event will be a fundraiser for the Gaza Soup Kitchen and highlights affordable, giftable items that can only be found in Asheville.

This year’s craft pop-up will include two dates: Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th (the start of Hanukkah, ten days before Xmas Eve). Beginning at 11am and ending at 4pm, each date will have a different selection of artists showcasing baked goods, fiber arts, ceramics, art prints, jewelry, and more. The pop-up will take place outdoors at 1022 Haywood Road in West Asheville, or inside the bookstore at the same address in case of inclement weather.

Participating artists have committed to donate 25% of at least the first $250 in sales made to the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots NGO feeding thousands daily in Gaza. Attendees will have additional opportunities to support the lifesaving work of the humanitarian aid organization. More information on the Gaza Soup Kitchen can be found at https://gazasoupkitchen.org.

So excited for Asheville Phoenix Fire Nonprofit’s 1st Annual – YULE TIDE PRIDE – Holiday Market Convention! We are bringing Pride into the festive season! Come get your holiday gifts, enjoy some local live music, coffee shop treats, connect with resources, take a holiday photo, sink in with community and more!

Included with admission

Capture that classic Christmas moment you and your children will never outgrow. Afterward, explore all that Antler Hill Village has to offer: ice cream at The Creamery, friendly animals at our Farmyard, plus Pisgah Playground, shops, restaurants, and an award-winning Winery.

Dates available:

November 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 28-30

December 6-7, 13-14, 17-24

Join us at AVL Clay for our first Winter Wonderland Pottery Sale and Manna FoodBank fundraiser.
Shop local this season at AVL Clay! We’re excited to share the latest handmade pieces from our talented members. Support Manna Food Bank, enjoy live music, and discover a lovely assortment of ceramic gifts. And be sure to swing by our neighbor, Altamont Vintage!