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, August 28, 2025
Arbor Evenings
Aug 28 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays through September 18, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

**Please note: Outside alcohol is prohibited on the campus of The North Carolina Arboretum.**

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

ART PARTY ON THE ROOF AT THE RADICAL HOTEL
Aug 28 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Radical Hotel

ART PARTY ON THE ROOF AT THE RADICAL HOTEL

Thursday, August 28, 2025

7-9pm

The Roof

The Radical Hotel

95 Roberts Street

Asheville, NC 28801

You are invited to an unforgettable evening of creativity and community with Miranda Wildman and friends on The Roof at The Radical Hotel!

This August evening we will play with a plethora of colors and shapes to create your very own tabletop lantern to set the mood for your summer soirees.

No experience? No problem! This is all about fun, self-expression, and connecting with others through art. Let the local DJ’s inspired beats set the mood as you create alongside new and old friends.

Come as you are—bring your curiosity. Art is for everyone, and this art party is too!

$25

all materials included

N.O.T.A.F.L.O.F.

(no one turned away for lack of funds)

Friday, August 29, 2025
Garden and Adventure Photography
Aug 29 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Garden and Adventure Photography Basics

with Cami Calnan

Friday, August 29  |  10 am – 1 pm

Elevate your photography from the level you are currently working from. In this immersive workshop, we will explore the technical aspects of the camera you photograph with. Bring your phone, your slr or point and shoot digital or film camera, and we will explore the concepts behind taking the kinds of photos you are hoping to capture.

This program will take place outside and will follow easy trails and paved walkways. Dress for the weather and prepare to be outside for the entire program time.

Live Music at All Day Darling
Aug 29 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
All Day Darling

All Day Darling, the all-day eatery in Asheville’s historic Montford neighborhood, invites the community to enjoy live music from local musicians every Friday and Saturday from 6-9pm on their patio. Guests are encouraged to come for dinner, drinks and good vibes as local musicians set the tone for the weekend.

Upcoming performance schedule:
Friday, August 29 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, August 30 – Brent Riddle
Friday, September 5 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 6 – Ryan Furstenberg
Friday, September 12 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 13 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)
Friday, September 19 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Friday, September 26 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 27 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)

The rotating dinner menu features crave‑worthy offerings like the Thunderbird fried‑chicken sandwich with Harissa aioli and fermented vegetables, the Darling Burger with chop‑shop beef and house aioli, hearty salads and bowls, and seasonal specials – all served in a warm and laid‑back atmosphere.

Admission is free – no tickets or reservations required to enjoy Asheville’s live‑music scene alongside thoughtful, market‑driven fare.

Saturday, August 30, 2025
Hendersonville Farmers Market
Aug 30 @ 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Historic Train Depot

The Hendersonville Farmers Market, Locally Grown, Community Strong,
Located at the Historic Train Depot in the heart of downtown Hendersonville’s Seventh Avenue District. Opening its doors every Saturday from May 3rd to October 25th, this market is a testament to local community support and sustainable living. Running from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., rain or shine, the market boasts over 30 vendors within a 60-mile radius. Explore a diverse array of offerings, including farm-fresh produce, meats, eggs, dairy, honey, baked goods, crafts, and beverages. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by live music every Saturday, creating a festive backdrop for your market adventure. Don’t miss special events like Tomato Day, Wellness Day, and Juneteenth Celebration, offering unique experiences throughout the season. With ample free parking available, the Hendersonville Farmers Market is your go-to destination for a weekly outing celebrating local producers, growers, and the community spirit.

Live Music at All Day Darling
Aug 30 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
All Day Darling

All Day Darling, the all-day eatery in Asheville’s historic Montford neighborhood, invites the community to enjoy live music from local musicians every Friday and Saturday from 6-9pm on their patio. Guests are encouraged to come for dinner, drinks and good vibes as local musicians set the tone for the weekend.

Upcoming performance schedule:
Friday, August 29 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, August 30 – Brent Riddle
Friday, September 5 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 6 – Ryan Furstenberg
Friday, September 12 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 13 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)
Friday, September 19 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Friday, September 26 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 27 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)

The rotating dinner menu features crave‑worthy offerings like the Thunderbird fried‑chicken sandwich with Harissa aioli and fermented vegetables, the Darling Burger with chop‑shop beef and house aioli, hearty salads and bowls, and seasonal specials – all served in a warm and laid‑back atmosphere.

Admission is free – no tickets or reservations required to enjoy Asheville’s live‑music scene alongside thoughtful, market‑driven fare.

Sunday, August 31, 2025
Boomtown Arts & Heritage Festival
Aug 31 all-day
Pack Square Park
Boomtown Arts & Heritage FestAVL proudly announces its return to downtown Asheville, set for August 29-31, 2025, at Pack Square Park. This year’s festival emphasizes community resilience and celebrates the region’s history of rebuilding in the wake of natural disasters. Drawing inspiration from Asheville’s emergence as a vibrant boomtown following “The Great Flood” of 1916, the 2025 festival seeks to support regional recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.
The three-day, family-friendly festival will offer a dynamic lineup of musical performances, heritage trail tours, wellness activities, interactive workshops, and local artisans, all aimed at highlighting and preserving Asheville’s unique cultural tapestry. Boomtown FestAVL will feature rich programming designed to engage residents and visitors alike in celebrating the city’s past, present, and future.
Monday, September 1, 2025
NC Apple Festival
Sep 1 all-day
Downtown Hendersonville

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.

 

Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Arbor Evenings
Sep 3 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays through September 18, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

**Please note: Outside alcohol is prohibited on the campus of The North Carolina Arboretum.**

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

Thursday, September 4, 2025
Arbor Evenings
Sep 4 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays through September 18, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

**Please note: Outside alcohol is prohibited on the campus of The North Carolina Arboretum.**

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

Friday, September 5, 2025
NC Mountain State Fair
Sep 5 all-day
WNC Ag 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.

Live Music at All Day Darling
Sep 5 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
All Day Darling

All Day Darling, the all-day eatery in Asheville’s historic Montford neighborhood, invites the community to enjoy live music from local musicians every Friday and Saturday from 6-9pm on their patio. Guests are encouraged to come for dinner, drinks and good vibes as local musicians set the tone for the weekend.

Upcoming performance schedule:
Friday, August 29 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, August 30 – Brent Riddle
Friday, September 5 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 6 – Ryan Furstenberg
Friday, September 12 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 13 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)
Friday, September 19 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Friday, September 26 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 27 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)

The rotating dinner menu features crave‑worthy offerings like the Thunderbird fried‑chicken sandwich with Harissa aioli and fermented vegetables, the Darling Burger with chop‑shop beef and house aioli, hearty salads and bowls, and seasonal specials – all served in a warm and laid‑back atmosphere.

Admission is free – no tickets or reservations required to enjoy Asheville’s live‑music scene alongside thoughtful, market‑driven fare.

Saturday, September 6, 2025
NC Mountain State Fair
Sep 6 all-day
WNC Ag 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.

Hendersonville Farmers Market
Sep 6 @ 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Historic Train Depot

Discover the Hendersonville Farmers Market, Locally Grown, Community Strong
A vibrant weekly gathering at the Historic Train Depot in downtown Hendersonville. Running every Saturday from May 3rd to October 25th, rain or shine, the market showcases over 30 local vendors within a 60-mile radius. From farm-fresh produce and meats to baked goods, crafts, and live entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Join us from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for a celebration of food, farms, and family in a lively community atmosphere.

Live Music at All Day Darling
Sep 6 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
All Day Darling

All Day Darling, the all-day eatery in Asheville’s historic Montford neighborhood, invites the community to enjoy live music from local musicians every Friday and Saturday from 6-9pm on their patio. Guests are encouraged to come for dinner, drinks and good vibes as local musicians set the tone for the weekend.

Upcoming performance schedule:
Friday, August 29 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, August 30 – Brent Riddle
Friday, September 5 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 6 – Ryan Furstenberg
Friday, September 12 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 13 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)
Friday, September 19 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Friday, September 26 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 27 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)

The rotating dinner menu features crave‑worthy offerings like the Thunderbird fried‑chicken sandwich with Harissa aioli and fermented vegetables, the Darling Burger with chop‑shop beef and house aioli, hearty salads and bowls, and seasonal specials – all served in a warm and laid‑back atmosphere.

Admission is free – no tickets or reservations required to enjoy Asheville’s live‑music scene alongside thoughtful, market‑driven fare.

Sunday, September 7, 2025
NC Mountain State Fair
Sep 7 all-day
WNC Ag 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.

Monday, September 8, 2025
NC Mountain State Fair
Sep 8 all-day
WNC Ag 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.

Tuesday, September 9, 2025
NC Mountain State Fair
Sep 9 all-day
WNC Ag 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.

Wednesday, September 10, 2025
NC Mountain State Fair
Sep 10 all-day
WNC Ag 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.

Gardening in a Changing Climate
Sep 10 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Gardening in a Changing Climate

with Laura Lengnick

Wednesday, September 10  |  1 – 3pm

The changing weather patterns caused by climate change create new challenges for gardeners in Western NC and beyond. More variable and extreme temperatures and rainfall, a longer growing season and warmer winters disrupt the growth and development of plants and animals common to our region. This course provides an overview of the practices, both old and new, that gardeners can use to cultivate a climate-resilient garden. Learn how to evaluate climate risk, anticipate the arrival of new pests and diseases, and track local changes in weather patterns to improve your ability to adjust seasonal work plans, select well-adapted plant species/cultivars, and manage landscapes to promote climate resilience.

 

Arbor Evenings
Sep 10 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays through September 18, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

**Please note: Outside alcohol is prohibited on the campus of The North Carolina Arboretum.**

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

Thursday, September 11, 2025
NC Mountain State Fair
Sep 11 all-day
WNC Ag 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.

Arbor Evenings
Sep 11 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays through September 18, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

**Please note: Outside alcohol is prohibited on the campus of The North Carolina Arboretum.**

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

Friday, September 12, 2025
NC Mountain State Fair
Sep 12 all-day
WNC Ag 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.

Brews and Bears
Sep 12 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
WNC Nature Center

The WNC Nature Center continues roaring back to life with one of Asheville’s favorite summer traditions — Brews and Bears!

Starting Friday, May 9, from 5:30–8:00 p.m., this after-hours event invites guests to enjoy the Nature Center in the cool evening hours with live music, local food, and plenty of local brews and beverages.

The Brews and Bears Summer Series will take place on the second Friday of each month through August, and each event features a unique lineup of food trucks, musicians, and animal education programs—so no two nights are the same!

Live Music at All Day Darling
Sep 12 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
All Day Darling

All Day Darling, the all-day eatery in Asheville’s historic Montford neighborhood, invites the community to enjoy live music from local musicians every Friday and Saturday from 6-9pm on their patio. Guests are encouraged to come for dinner, drinks and good vibes as local musicians set the tone for the weekend.

Upcoming performance schedule:
Friday, August 29 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, August 30 – Brent Riddle
Friday, September 5 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 6 – Ryan Furstenberg
Friday, September 12 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 13 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)
Friday, September 19 – Leo Johnson (jazz trio)
Friday, September 26 – Dinah’s Daydream (jazz trio)
Saturday, September 27 – Adam Rose (jazz trio)

The rotating dinner menu features crave‑worthy offerings like the Thunderbird fried‑chicken sandwich with Harissa aioli and fermented vegetables, the Darling Burger with chop‑shop beef and house aioli, hearty salads and bowls, and seasonal specials – all served in a warm and laid‑back atmosphere.

Admission is free – no tickets or reservations required to enjoy Asheville’s live‑music scene alongside thoughtful, market‑driven fare.

Saturday, September 13, 2025
NC Mountain State Fair
Sep 13 all-day
WNC Ag 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.

Hendersonville Farmers Market
Sep 13 @ 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Historic Train Depot

Discover the Hendersonville Farmers Market, Locally Grown, Community Strong
A vibrant weekly gathering at the Historic Train Depot in downtown Hendersonville. Running every Saturday from May 3rd to October 25th, rain or shine, the market showcases over 30 local vendors within a 60-mile radius. From farm-fresh produce and meats to baked goods, crafts, and live entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Join us from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for a celebration of food, farms, and family in a lively community atmosphere.

Forest Bathing: A Harvest Season Retreat
Sep 13 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Forest Bathing: A Harvest Season Retreat

with Asheville Wellness Tours

Saturday, September 13  |  10 – 1pm

Celebrate abundance, balance and equilibrium during this immersive morning nature connection retreat. During this seasonal transition, we’ll mark the threshold between summer and fall, honoring the Earth’s bountiful harvest while slowing our pace, awakening our senses, and practicing embodied acts of gratitude. Honoring this liminal fifth season, connecting with ourselves, each other, and the more-than-human-world, nourishing the relationships that sustain and connect us.

Your guide, Christa Hebal, will lead you on a gentle journey through the forest, weaving mindfulness, breathwork, forest bathing and nature therapy together for a restorative morning on some of the trails less traveled at the North Carolina Arboretum. We’ll celebrate the experience with a community Earth offering, followed by a wild-foraged tea ceremony and snacks. Bring an open mind and an open heart. All are welcome. Presented through Adult & Continuing Education Programs in collaboration with Asheville Wellness Tours.

West Asheville Garden Stroll
Sep 13 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
West Asheville Baptist Church

The 16th West Asheville Garden Stroll is Saturday, September 13 from 11 AM to 4 PM. It features 13 diverse gardens in the Falconhurst neighborhood, north of Haywood Road between Mitchell Avenue and Louisiana. Stroll Guides with a map and garden descriptions will be available from 11:00 until 3:30 at the parking lot across from West Asheville Baptist Church, 926 Haywood Road. (Note to regular attendees: there’s no kickoff program this year.)

The Garden Stroll is free, and all are welcome to join in this community event, rain or shine. However, leave your four-footed friends at home — dogs are not allowed in the gardens.
In keeping with our “stroll” concept, we encourage you to park at one of the WAGS-designated lots on Haywood Road and walk or bike the 2.5 mile route.
This year’s gardens include a permaculture “grass to food” yard with all kinds of edibles; formal designs and eclectic ones that have evolved over time; a “photographer’s paradise;” a large Bountiful Cities community garden hidden among residential streets; whimsical yard art; and of course, chickens. You’ll see new and mature gardens as well as works-in-progress, all offering the chance to chat with friendly and enthusiastic gardeners.
Our theme, Entwined, was inspired by the amazing interconnectedness of nature. In a healthy garden the plants, insects, birds, fungi and soil bacteria form an interdependent community that allows them all to thrive. The same is true in a healthy neighborhood. After Helene, the Falconhurst community — like many neighborhoods in WNC — grew even more entwined, as neighbors gathered around the well at the small farm to collect water and share necessities, information, and good vibes. Let’s all work to make our communities and our gardens more “entwined!”