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.

Sunday, December 8, 2024
Jack’s Bluegrass Brunch
Dec 8 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Jack of the Wood

Jack’s Bluegrass Brunch kicks off every Sunday at 12 noon — with lively bluegrass tunes courtesy of The Jack of the Wood Bluegrass Brunch Boys from 1-3pm. Sip a Bloody Mary or Mimosa or a warm Irish coffee. Tasty brunch specials alongside our regular menu and 18 taps of rotating craft brews! Sláinte, y’all!

A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Dec 8 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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 Greenville Symphony presents Holiday at Peace: Greenville’s favorite Christmas family tradition
Dec 8 @ 2:00 pm
Peace Concert Hall

Your Greenville Symphony pulls out all the festive stops to ring in the season. You’d never guess Holiday at Peace has been going strong for decades, because she’s as fresh as ever with nationally renowned soloists and a joyful showcase of the best local talent. The orchestra, vocalists, and dancers weave a narrative celebrating the magic of the season.

Is it even Christmastime if you haven’t seen Holiday at Peace?

GUESTS
Siri Howard, vocalist
International Ballet

*perfect for ages 7 to infinity

Finding Home
Dec 8 @ 3:00 pm
Haywood Community College

Please join the Blue Ridge Orchestra for this tribute, in two 3:00 pm concerts: on Saturday, December 7th in Charles Beall Auditorium of Haywood Community College; and on Sunday, December 8th in Lipinsky Auditorium, UNC Asheville. Finding Home elicits the many emotions that accompany life’s journey and explorations. Experiencing the magic of both urban and rural environments, far away destinations, and the familiarity of home, this concert will include Quinn Mason’s Inner City Rhapsody, Copland’s Letter from Home, Gershwin’s American in Paris, and Carlos Simon’s The Block! We are proud to feature renowned baritone Isaiah Feken on Mahler’s Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen and of course we will include holiday favorites…In the wake of Hurricane Helene, this program is all the more poignant, bringing our community together with its inspiring music. 

1st Performance:

Saturday, December 7th, 2024, 3:00 pm
Haywood Community College
Charles Beall Auditorium
185 Freedlander Drive
Clyde, NC. 28721

Tickets:
General Admission: $25
Students (ages 5+): $15

2nd Performance

Sunday, December  8th, 2024, 3:00 pm
UNC Asheville
Lipinsky Auditorium
300 Library Lane
Asheville, NC. 28804

Tickets:
General Admission: $20
Friends of the Orchestra: $15
Students: $5
Children 6 and under: Free

 

TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC SESSION
Dec 8 @ 3:30 pm
Jack of the Wood

Jack’s long-running Traditional Irish Music Session is the perfect way to enjoy the Celtic-influenced sounds of talented pluckers from all over WNC & further afield! Stop in to enjoy a pint or afternoon Irish coffee with the music! Sláinte!

Blue Ridge Ringers “A Winter Journey”
Dec 8 @ 4:00 pm
Lutheran Church of the Nativity

Experience the sounds of winter and the holidays with the Blue Ridge Ringers as they present “A Winter Journey” concert series. This captivating musical journey is sure to bring audiences season’s cheer with an eclectic blend of rhythm, melody, and musicality. “A Winter Journey” showcases the ensemble’s versatility and artistry, featuring a mix of holiday favorites, expertly arranged for handbells.

Winter Lights
Dec 8 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

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.

Monday, December 9, 2024
Blue Ridge Ringers “A Winter Journey”
Dec 9 @ 4:00 pm
Deerfield Retirement Community

Experience the sounds of winter and the holidays with the Blue Ridge Ringers as they present “A Winter Journey” concert series. This captivating musical journey is sure to bring audiences season’s cheer with an eclectic blend of rhythm, melody, and musicality. “A Winter Journey” showcases the ensemble’s versatility and artistry, featuring a mix of holiday favorites, expertly arranged for handbells.

Winter Lights
Dec 9 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

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.

Tuesday, December 10, 2024
A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Dec 10 @ 9:30 am
Flat Rock Playhouse

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!

Winter Lights
Dec 10 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

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.

Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Annual Economic Outlook
Dec 11 @ 11:15 am – 1:30 pm
Omni Grove Park Inn

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.

A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Dec 11 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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!

OLD-TIME JAM Old-Time Mountain + Folk Music
Dec 11 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Jack of the Wood


Grab some dinner and a pint while enjoying our long-running Old-Time jam! Featuring many talented musicians from the local WNC area, our traditional Appalachian mountain music jam runs from 5-9pm every Wednesday night at Jack of the Wood!

The Venture Asheville Honors – A Telethon Celebrating Entrepreneurial Resilience
Dec 11 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Orange Peel

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
Dec 11 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

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.

Thursday, December 12, 2024
A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Dec 12 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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!

Blue Ridge Ringers “A Winter Journey”
Dec 12 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Pack Library

Experience the sounds of winter and the holidays with the Blue Ridge Ringers as they present “A Winter Journey” concert series. This captivating musical journey is sure to bring audiences season’s cheer with an eclectic blend of rhythm, melody, and musicality. “A Winter Journey” showcases the ensemble’s versatility and artistry, featuring a mix of holiday favorites, expertly arranged for handbells.

Winter Lights
Dec 12 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

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.

BLUEGRASS JAM Hosted by Drew Matulich
Dec 12 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Jack of the Wood

BLUEGRASS JAM

Hosted by Drew Matulich


Don’t miss your chance to check out some of the best pickers from all over WNC at our amazing Bluegrass Jam curated by the talented Drew Matulich — every Thursday starting at 7:00 pm! A real show-stopping performance only at Jack of the Wood! Open jam starts at 9:30 pm.

A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Dec 12 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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!

An evening with TOMMY EMMANUEL, CGP
Dec 12 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

 Show: 8pm | Doors: 7pm

Ages 18+
FULLY SEATED SHOW
Friday, December 13, 2024
Acoustic Jam Session
Dec 13 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Sideways Farm & Brewery

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

Winter Lights
Dec 13 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

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.

Benefit Concert for Victims of Helene — FEATURING DAVID WILCOX, DAVID LAMOTTE, RAY CHRISTIAN
Dec 13 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Land Of The Sky Church

Benefit Concert featuring DAVID WILCOX, DAVID LAMOTTE, RAY CHRISTIAN and ZACHARI CAHN.
Donate what You will. Proceeds go to the Mankind Project Disaster Relief Fund and will be distributed to the victims of Helene.

A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Dec 13 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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!

Christmas Spectacular – The Carolina Concert Choir
Dec 13 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Grace Lutheran Church

Christmas Spectacular – Featuring the Carolina Concert Choir with Flutes, Oboes, Strings & Organ​

Join us as we perform: J. S. Bach: Und es waren Hirten in derselben Gegend [And there were Shepherds in that Same Region], and Brandenburg Concerto No. 2; Sing-along Carols for Choir and orchestra; and Morten Lauridsen: O magnum mysterium.

Friday, December 13 at 7:30pm or Saturday, December 14 at 3:00pm

1245 6th Ave W, Hendersonville, NC 28791, USA

Saturday, December 14, 2024
WNC Wonderland at Horse Shoe Farms
Dec 14 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Horse Shoe Farms

Hive Ambition, Blue Ridge Artisan Market and Horse Shoe Farms are partnering up to host THE holiday market of the season, WNC Wonderland – a fundraiser benefitting The Creative Resilience Fund created by Brittany from @blue.ridge.artisan.market 💙

This event will include 20+ makers, artists, and creatives and is the perfect ‘one-stop shop’ for all of your holiday gifts.

The WNC artist community has been hit hard by Hurricane Helene and they need your support more than ever – come spend the day with us and show our creative community some love!

Don’t miss out on a perfect day filled with:

❄️ Supporting local artists and getting all your holiday shopping done!

❄️ Food and food options – including a s’mores station!!

❄️ A holiday themed Photo Booth by the lovely Sami over at @ashevilleflowerwalls – perfect for family photos!

❄️ A chance to win AMAZING raffle baskets from @hiveambition @blue.ridge.artisan.market and @thehorseshoefarm

❄️ A kids play area with a coloring station and fun-filled activities!

❄️ An opportunity to explore the beautiful @thehorseshoefarm property

This is a market you will want to spend the entire day at, so join us from 10am-3pm on December 14 to Shop Local and Support Hope 💝

A HUGE shoutout to the generosity of:

@blue.ridge.artisan.market for curating the artists and makers (and for collaborating to help put this entire market together!!!)

@thehorseshoefarm for donating their beautiful space

@kaleidoscopic.creative for donating their time and talent in our graphic design

@ashevilleflowerwalls for donating what will be an awesome Photo Booth

A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Dec 14 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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!

Christmas Spectacular – The Carolina Concert Choir
Dec 14 @ 3:00 pm
Grace Lutheran Church

Christmas Spectacular – Featuring the Carolina Concert Choir with Flutes, Oboes, Strings & Organ​

Join us as we perform: J. S. Bach: Und es waren Hirten in derselben Gegend [And there were Shepherds in that Same Region], and Brandenburg Concerto No. 2; Sing-along Carols for Choir and orchestra; and Morten Lauridsen: O magnum mysterium.

Friday, December 13 at 7:30pm or Saturday, December 14 at 3:00pm

1245 6th Ave W, Hendersonville, NC 28791, USA