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, October 26, 2025
Howl-O-Ween
Oct 26 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Aloft Asheville Downtown – Roof Deck/Pool

Join us for a spooktacular evening at Aloft Asheville & Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue’s Howl-O-Ween dog-friendly costume party. Come for cocktails, costumes, and community — all to support a great cause. The event takes place Sunday, October 26 from 4-7 pm at SPLASH, the outdoor pool deck at Aloft Asheville, with a $5 entry fee. Guests can look forward to dog and human costume contests, a one-night staycation raffle, music from DJ Molly Parti, and more. Dress up, sip up, and let your pups strut their stuff!

The 13th Annual Haunted Trail at The Adventure Center of Asheville
Oct 26 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Adventure Center of Asheville

Asheville Plays is eeeek!cited to announce the 13th annual Haunted Trail; Asheville’s only family friendly haunt! This event is ideal for Halloween lovers of all ages, 3-12 being the suggested age range. The Adventure Center of Asheville is the host of this one of a kind live outdoor theatrical experience where guests are promised an entirely immersive and interactive spooky night out while also ensuring no contact. The show is loved by boils and ghouls from all over WNC and is proudly presented by our title sponsor Mellow Mushroom Asheville. The Treetop Adventure Park Aerial Glow Trail is available for purchase for guests 4 years or older to enjoy at this event! Climb on two aerial trails while they are illuminated with thousands of colorful twinkle and laser lights. If you want to enjoy both of these amazing activities, combo passes are available and WILL sell out, so make sure you reserve your tickets early! *The Haunted Trail does not sell out, however the entrance closes at 9 pm. Join us in saying BOO! to hunger; Each Ticket purchased to this event raises 4 meals for MANNA foodbank. For younger guests who still aren’t sure about being scared, even for fun, a “Sweet Peek Tour’ is offered nightly at 6:45 pm. The trail is actor free at this time and allows any nervous little monsters to decide if they would like to re enter the line and receive the full show. Don’t miss PIRATES COVE! Featuring a 30 ft Pirate Ship Escape Room, Live Mermaid Encounter with photo opportunity, and free pirate themed activities. In addition to the Haunted & Aerial Glow Trails and Pirates Cove, there will be an entire festival with games, local vendors, food and brews, and new this year: a Cotton Candy Robot! Scare you there! Oct 3-4-10-11-17-18-19-23-24-25-26 6-9 PM

Water for Elephants Musical
Oct 26 @ 6:30 pm
Peace Center

The critically acclaimed bestselling novel WATER FOR ELEPHANTS comes to “thrilling, dazzling” life (Time Out New York) in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical! Hailed as a Critic’s Pick, The New York Times calls it “stunning, emotional, heart-filled and gorgeously imaginative.”

After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes a poignant reminder that if you choose the ride, life can begin again at any age.

Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Donna Washington: A Little Shiver
Oct 28 @ 10:00 am
Diana Wortham Theatre

Wortham Center Student Series Donna Washington: A Little Shiver

Tue, Oct 28 • 10 am

Grades 3–5
Show length: 60 minutes

Join internationally acclaimed storyteller Donna Washington for a delightful session of fun, interactive, and not-so-scary ghost stories perfect for young audiences. Through the enchanting world of Swamp Stories rooted in African American traditions, students will not only enjoy the tales but also enhance their literary skills. Donna’s animated storytelling style, complete with vocal pyrotechnics and expressive characterizations, will captivate and inspire students, making this an unforgettable educational experience.

Reservations for individuals (9 people or less): $12 each

Reservations for groups (10 people or more): $11 each


Donna Washington: Of Blood and Bone
Oct 28 @ 7:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Tue, Oct 28 • 7 pm

Master storyteller Donna Washington delivers delightfully disquieting tales of skin-spinners, sweet-toothed child-eaters, undead lovers, and blood-hungry captains. Perfectly timed for the Halloween season, these stories will get under your skin and revisit you deep in the night.

Recommended for ages 18+

Spotlight on Donna Washington:

Called a “Walking Disney Movie” for her animated, spellbinding style
Consultant on the eerie video game South of Midnight
30+ national awards for storytelling and spoken word recordings
Performed at major festivals across the U.S., Australia, and beyond
For grown-up lovers of the strange, spooky, and spine-tingling—don’t miss it!

Friday, October 31, 2025
Eliada Corn Maze and Fall Festival
Oct 31 @ 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Eliada Home
Weekends, Sept 26th-Nov 1st – Annual Eliada Corn Maze and Fall Festival! WNC’s ONLY non-profit Corn Maze with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the children at Eliada! Not only does your ticket purchase come with access to family-friendly fun, memories, and adventures, but it directly aids in the growth and success of Eliada’s kids! Attractions will include corn cannons, bouncy pillow, a spider climber, a custom corn maze, lawn games, hay rides, pumpkins for purchase, food trucks, and MORE!
⬇️ HOURS:
Fridays: 3:00pm-7:00pm
Saturdays: 10:00am-7:00pm
Sundays: 10:00am-6:00pm
⬇️ ADMISSION:
$15/Tickets
FREE/Ages 3 years and under
$40/Season Passes
🌽 Corporate Nights, Field Trips, and Birthday Party reservations are also available
🗺: 2 Compton Drive, Asheville 28806
👉 Learn more and purchase your tickets HERE: https://eliadacornmaze.mazeplay.com/
May be an image of 2 people, corn and text that says 'Fridays 3pT 3pm-7pm 7pm WEEKENDS IN OCTOBER SEPT 26TH NO 1ST ELIADA ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL & CORN MAZE TICKETS ON SALE NOW! ELIADACORNMAZE.MAZEPL Corn Cannons Bouncy Pillow Spider Climber Custom Corn Maze Lawn Games Hay Rides Pumpkins for purchase Food Trucks & MORE!! Saturdays 10am 7pm Sundays 10am 10am-6pm 6pm Corporate Nights, Field Trips and Birthday Party reservations are also available. Have Questions? E-Mailu at cornmaze@eliada.org'
Saturday, November 1, 2025
Craft Fair and Food Truck Extravaganza
Nov 1 @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
West Henderson High School

The Sheep Dog Club of WHHS is having this event for the community to earn money for our scholarship at the end of the year to a Senior who is entering Law Enforcement Training, Fire, EMS, or the military. We have secured food trucks to be available beginning at 10 am and craft vendors to sell their goods. Please join us to help our community of future leaders. The event is free to attend and purchase goods, and vendor tables are $25 each for up to two tables. Alternatively, you can bring your own tables and rent a space for $40.

Eliada Corn Maze and Fall Festival
Nov 1 @ 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Eliada Home
Weekends, Sept 26th-Nov 1st – Annual Eliada Corn Maze and Fall Festival! WNC’s ONLY non-profit Corn Maze with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the children at Eliada! Not only does your ticket purchase come with access to family-friendly fun, memories, and adventures, but it directly aids in the growth and success of Eliada’s kids! Attractions will include corn cannons, bouncy pillow, a spider climber, a custom corn maze, lawn games, hay rides, pumpkins for purchase, food trucks, and MORE!
⬇️ HOURS:
Fridays: 3:00pm-7:00pm
Saturdays: 10:00am-7:00pm
Sundays: 10:00am-6:00pm
⬇️ ADMISSION:
$15/Tickets
FREE/Ages 3 years and under
$40/Season Passes
🌽 Corporate Nights, Field Trips, and Birthday Party reservations are also available
🗺: 2 Compton Drive, Asheville 28806
👉 Learn more and purchase your tickets HERE: https://eliadacornmaze.mazeplay.com/
May be an image of 2 people, corn and text that says 'Fridays 3pT 3pm-7pm 7pm WEEKENDS IN OCTOBER SEPT 26TH NO 1ST ELIADA ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL & CORN MAZE TICKETS ON SALE NOW! ELIADACORNMAZE.MAZEPL Corn Cannons Bouncy Pillow Spider Climber Custom Corn Maze Lawn Games Hay Rides Pumpkins for purchase Food Trucks & MORE!! Saturdays 10am 7pm Sundays 10am 10am-6pm 6pm Corporate Nights, Field Trips and Birthday Party reservations are also available. Have Questions? E-Mailu at cornmaze@eliada.org'
I9PA Release Party + Benefit Bike Bash!
Nov 1 @ 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Asheville Yards

I9PA Release Party (10 Year Anniversary Edition)

Roll down to the Asheville Yards on Saturday, Nov. 1st for a day of bicycle fun in support of Asheville on Bikes and the AVL Unpaved project.

3-6pm: Bring the kids and your bikes for AoB’s pop-up bike park and the Maro inflatable obstacle course! Recyclery will be here to teach bike maintenance skills!

6pm: I9 raffle winners announced! We’re raffling off Industry Nine Custom Hydra2 Alloy Wheel Raffle in support of AVL Unpaved.

6:30-7:30pm: Newspaper challenge! Bring your bike and complete our newspaper delivery obstacle challenge.

The dance, bike, and beer release party goes until 9pm!

Monday, November 3, 2025
Hike with a Naturalist
Nov 3 @ 11:00 am
Chimney Rock State Park

Hike with a Naturalist

Watch the park transform week-by-week while you hike one of our six unique trails with a naturalist guide every Monday morning in November. Fall color lingers at the beginning of November, and as we approach Thanksgiving the forest prepares for winter.

To register for this event, please call our office at 828-625-9611 Monday through Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm, or email [email protected] any time.

Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Is This a Room
Nov 5 all-day
NC State Company

THRILLER | SUSPENSE | TRUE STORY

A 25-year-old former Air Force linguist named Reality Winner is surprised at her home by the FBI, interrogated, and then charged with leaking evidence of Russian interference in U.S elections. Reality was given a record breaking sentence and was released from prison to a half-way house on June 2, 2021 for good behavior.

The FBI transcript of her interrogation is the heart of Is This a Room, conceived as a play and directed by Obie Award-winner Tina Satter, in which an extraordinary human drama unfolds between the complex and witty Reality, and the agents who question her. As Reality’s autonomy shrinks before her eyes, a simmering real-life thriller emerges, asking what it is to have honor in this American moment, and how the personal can reverberate globally.

Performances of Is This a Room will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.

November 5 – November 23

Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm

Friday November 7 at 7:30pm (Pay What You Can Night)

Other Fridays and Sundays at 2pm

“Is This A Room” at NC Stage
Nov 5 @ 7:30 pm – 8:15 pm
North Carolina Stage Company

Join NC Stage Nov. 5th – Nov. 23rd for Is This A Room. Wed., Thurs., Sat. at 7:30pm; Fri. & Sun. at 2pm. (Friday 11/7 at 7:30pm)
June 3, 2017: A 25-year-old former Air Force linguist named Reality Winner is surprised at her home by the FBI, interrogated, and then charged with leaking classified information to media sources. Reality was given a record breaking sentence and was released from prison to a half-way house on June 2, 2021 for good behavior.
The FBI transcript of her interrogation is the heart of Is This a Room, conceived as a play and directed by Obie Award-winner Tina Satter, in which an extraordinary human drama unfolds between the complex and witty Reality, and the agents who question her. As Reality’s autonomy shrinks before her eyes, a simmering real-life thriller emerges, asking what it is to have honor in this American moment, and how the personal can reverberate globally.
Adult Tickets: $24-48
Student Tickets: $10
“Choose Your Price” Nights 11/5-11/7: $10-48

Thursday, November 6, 2025
Is This a Room
Nov 6 all-day
NC State Company

THRILLER | SUSPENSE | TRUE STORY

A 25-year-old former Air Force linguist named Reality Winner is surprised at her home by the FBI, interrogated, and then charged with leaking evidence of Russian interference in U.S elections. Reality was given a record breaking sentence and was released from prison to a half-way house on June 2, 2021 for good behavior.

The FBI transcript of her interrogation is the heart of Is This a Room, conceived as a play and directed by Obie Award-winner Tina Satter, in which an extraordinary human drama unfolds between the complex and witty Reality, and the agents who question her. As Reality’s autonomy shrinks before her eyes, a simmering real-life thriller emerges, asking what it is to have honor in this American moment, and how the personal can reverberate globally.

Performances of Is This a Room will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.

November 5 – November 23

Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm

Friday November 7 at 7:30pm (Pay What You Can Night)

Other Fridays and Sundays at 2pm

One Act Play Festival! 
Nov 6 all-day
Hendersonville Theater

Step into the spotlight of creativity at Hendersonville Theatre’s second annual One Act Play Festival! This two week extravaganza celebrates the art of storytelling through a dynamic lineup of short plays, showcasing a kaleidoscope of genres—from laugh-out-loud comedies to heartfelt dramas. Featuring original works by both regional and national playwrights, directed and performed by incredible local talent, the festival promises an unforgettable journey into the world of theatre.

The festival begins with an open call for submissions from across the country. After a meticulous selection process, a team of readers will handpicked a stellar lineup of plays that will make their world premiere on our stage. Divided into two sections, Show A and Show B, these short gems are performed in rotation, offering audiences a diverse and impactful theatrical experience.

One-act plays are renowned for their intensity and focus, delivering powerful narratives in a condensed format. This unique approach demands precision and creativity from performers, resulting in captivating and memorable performances. For artists, the festival provides an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their versatility and innovation, fostering growth in acting, directing, and technical execution.

Beyond the stage, the One Act Play Festival creates a vibrant community for theatre enthusiasts. It’s a space where performers, directors, and audiences come together to exchange ideas, celebrate new works, and build connections. Adding to the excitement, audience members will play an active role in the festival by voting for the Best of Show, culminating in a thrilling competition to crown the audience favorite.

Join us at Hendersonville Theatre for an evening of exceptional storytelling, spirited performances, and a shared love for the craft of theatre. Don’t miss your chance to experience the excitement, engagement, and inspiration of the One Act Play Festival!

Show A
Thursday, November 6 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 8 at 3 pm
Sunday, November 9 at 3 pm
Friday, November 14 at 7:30 pm
Show B
Friday, November 7 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 8 at 7:30 pm
Thursday, November 13 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 15 at 3 pm
Best of Show
Sunday, November 16 at 3 pm

Approximate Run Time: 2 hours

Yellow Brick Joel: The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John
Nov 6 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

Calling all fans of classic rock and pop! Don’t miss your chance to experience the incredible sounds of two of music’s greatest legends, Billy Joel and Elton John, brought to life by the ultimate tribute band! DAVID CLARK performs as BILLY JOEL along with BILL CONNORS as ELTON JOHN. This tribute show promises to evoke a wave of nostalgia and joy with hits like “I’m Still Standing”, “Rocket Man”, “Piano Man” and “You May Be Right.” The iconic hits don’t stop, and you won’t want them to!

Event Times: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Ticket Prices: $48 / $58 / $68

Child Pricing Available (17 & under)

Handcrafted Holiday Market
Nov 6 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Tryon Arts & Crafts School

Save the date for this year’s annual Handcrafted Holiday Market! This year’s show will run from November 7 through December 18, with the reception planned for Thursday, November 6, 5:30 – 7pm. Regional artists will fill the TACS Gallery with fine and handcrafted goods, rotating their inventory with each week and providing you with ample opportunities for holiday shopping! Stay tuned for more information regarding participating artists.

Our Li’l Angels Tree is filled with ornaments donated by area artists each year. By purchasing one of these ornaments, you are supporting our Youth Scholarship Fund, providing equal opportunities to creative kids!

TACS will be hosting a collection for Thermal Belt Outreach (TBO)! Items being donated will be distributed by TBO this holiday season.

Juked
Nov 6 @ 7:30 pm
Tina McGuire Theatre

Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective presents

Juked – RESCHEDULED

PLEASE NOTE: Performances of DS!PAC’s JUKED originally scheduled for February 6–23, 2025 and May 1-18, 2025 have been rescheduled again to November 6 – 23, 2025. Ticket holders will be contacted with more information.

Thursday – Saturday, November 6 – 22, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 23, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.

WORLD PREMIERE written by Mildred Inez Lewis

Juked is a retelling of Sophocles’ tragedy Electra. This version is set in 1950s Asheville and the “kingdom” is a chain of drink houses (private homes offering illegal alcohol) owned by the well-off, African-American Memnon family. Juked examines the relationship between Electra, her mother, and her sister, and asks what happens after tragedy. How do we recover? Juked is part of the Emerging Black Playwrights New Play Series and first debuted in its development phase, as a staged reading in November 2023.

Friday, November 7, 2025
Is This a Room
Nov 7 all-day
NC State Company

THRILLER | SUSPENSE | TRUE STORY

A 25-year-old former Air Force linguist named Reality Winner is surprised at her home by the FBI, interrogated, and then charged with leaking evidence of Russian interference in U.S elections. Reality was given a record breaking sentence and was released from prison to a half-way house on June 2, 2021 for good behavior.

The FBI transcript of her interrogation is the heart of Is This a Room, conceived as a play and directed by Obie Award-winner Tina Satter, in which an extraordinary human drama unfolds between the complex and witty Reality, and the agents who question her. As Reality’s autonomy shrinks before her eyes, a simmering real-life thriller emerges, asking what it is to have honor in this American moment, and how the personal can reverberate globally.

Performances of Is This a Room will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.

November 5 – November 23

Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm

Friday November 7 at 7:30pm (Pay What You Can Night)

Other Fridays and Sundays at 2pm

One Act Play Festival! 
Nov 7 all-day
Hendersonville Theater

Step into the spotlight of creativity at Hendersonville Theatre’s second annual One Act Play Festival! This two week extravaganza celebrates the art of storytelling through a dynamic lineup of short plays, showcasing a kaleidoscope of genres—from laugh-out-loud comedies to heartfelt dramas. Featuring original works by both regional and national playwrights, directed and performed by incredible local talent, the festival promises an unforgettable journey into the world of theatre.

The festival begins with an open call for submissions from across the country. After a meticulous selection process, a team of readers will handpicked a stellar lineup of plays that will make their world premiere on our stage. Divided into two sections, Show A and Show B, these short gems are performed in rotation, offering audiences a diverse and impactful theatrical experience.

One-act plays are renowned for their intensity and focus, delivering powerful narratives in a condensed format. This unique approach demands precision and creativity from performers, resulting in captivating and memorable performances. For artists, the festival provides an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their versatility and innovation, fostering growth in acting, directing, and technical execution.

Beyond the stage, the One Act Play Festival creates a vibrant community for theatre enthusiasts. It’s a space where performers, directors, and audiences come together to exchange ideas, celebrate new works, and build connections. Adding to the excitement, audience members will play an active role in the festival by voting for the Best of Show, culminating in a thrilling competition to crown the audience favorite.

Join us at Hendersonville Theatre for an evening of exceptional storytelling, spirited performances, and a shared love for the craft of theatre. Don’t miss your chance to experience the excitement, engagement, and inspiration of the One Act Play Festival!

Show A
Thursday, November 6 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 8 at 3 pm
Sunday, November 9 at 3 pm
Friday, November 14 at 7:30 pm
Show B
Friday, November 7 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 8 at 7:30 pm
Thursday, November 13 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 15 at 3 pm
Best of Show
Sunday, November 16 at 3 pm

Approximate Run Time: 2 hours

The Gift
Nov 7 all-day
Diana Wortham Theatre

Paperhand Puppet Project presents The Gift

Friday, Nov 7 •  7:30 pm
Saturday, Nov 8 •  3 pm & 7:30 pm
Sunday, Nov 9 •  3 pm

Stories move on the water. The water moves in all things. Life moves in dynamic patterns that weave like currents and rich tapestries that shape who we are. We may sometimes fall short of such states of grace. We readily receive the gifts the world provides with no explicit expectations in return. Yet reciprocity could very well be our best pathway to survival. We can decide to give back, and now is the time. We were built for this. Made for it.

We humbly request the gift of your presence as we seek this balance. Let the Grandmothers tell you a story that you didn’t know you needed. Let the water protectors and heroines of justice sing you a song of resilience. Let us share a moment of connection, wonder and gratitude. Let us create this, our future, together — through art!

Join us in honoring the rare gift that is life on Earth as we celebrate Paperhand’s 25th year! Come and experience the magic of giant puppets, masks, stilts, painted cardboard and cloth, illuminated puppets and shadows all set to original live music in a performance for all ages. See you at the show!

Yellow Brick Joel: The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John
Nov 7 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

Calling all fans of classic rock and pop! Don’t miss your chance to experience the incredible sounds of two of music’s greatest legends, Billy Joel and Elton John, brought to life by the ultimate tribute band! DAVID CLARK performs as BILLY JOEL along with BILL CONNORS as ELTON JOHN. This tribute show promises to evoke a wave of nostalgia and joy with hits like “I’m Still Standing”, “Rocket Man”, “Piano Man” and “You May Be Right.” The iconic hits don’t stop, and you won’t want them to!

Event Times: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Ticket Prices: $48 / $58 / $68

Child Pricing Available (17 & under)

Juked
Nov 7 @ 7:30 pm
Tina McGuire Theatre

Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective presents

Juked – RESCHEDULED

PLEASE NOTE: Performances of DS!PAC’s JUKED originally scheduled for February 6–23, 2025 and May 1-18, 2025 have been rescheduled again to November 6 – 23, 2025. Ticket holders will be contacted with more information.

Thursday – Saturday, November 6 – 22, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 23, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.

WORLD PREMIERE written by Mildred Inez Lewis

Juked is a retelling of Sophocles’ tragedy Electra. This version is set in 1950s Asheville and the “kingdom” is a chain of drink houses (private homes offering illegal alcohol) owned by the well-off, African-American Memnon family. Juked examines the relationship between Electra, her mother, and her sister, and asks what happens after tragedy. How do we recover? Juked is part of the Emerging Black Playwrights New Play Series and first debuted in its development phase, as a staged reading in November 2023.

Saturday, November 8, 2025
Is This a Room
Nov 8 all-day
NC State Company

THRILLER | SUSPENSE | TRUE STORY

A 25-year-old former Air Force linguist named Reality Winner is surprised at her home by the FBI, interrogated, and then charged with leaking evidence of Russian interference in U.S elections. Reality was given a record breaking sentence and was released from prison to a half-way house on June 2, 2021 for good behavior.

The FBI transcript of her interrogation is the heart of Is This a Room, conceived as a play and directed by Obie Award-winner Tina Satter, in which an extraordinary human drama unfolds between the complex and witty Reality, and the agents who question her. As Reality’s autonomy shrinks before her eyes, a simmering real-life thriller emerges, asking what it is to have honor in this American moment, and how the personal can reverberate globally.

Performances of Is This a Room will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.

November 5 – November 23

Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm

Friday November 7 at 7:30pm (Pay What You Can Night)

Other Fridays and Sundays at 2pm

One Act Play Festival! 
Nov 8 all-day
Hendersonville Theater

Step into the spotlight of creativity at Hendersonville Theatre’s second annual One Act Play Festival! This two week extravaganza celebrates the art of storytelling through a dynamic lineup of short plays, showcasing a kaleidoscope of genres—from laugh-out-loud comedies to heartfelt dramas. Featuring original works by both regional and national playwrights, directed and performed by incredible local talent, the festival promises an unforgettable journey into the world of theatre.

The festival begins with an open call for submissions from across the country. After a meticulous selection process, a team of readers will handpicked a stellar lineup of plays that will make their world premiere on our stage. Divided into two sections, Show A and Show B, these short gems are performed in rotation, offering audiences a diverse and impactful theatrical experience.

One-act plays are renowned for their intensity and focus, delivering powerful narratives in a condensed format. This unique approach demands precision and creativity from performers, resulting in captivating and memorable performances. For artists, the festival provides an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their versatility and innovation, fostering growth in acting, directing, and technical execution.

Beyond the stage, the One Act Play Festival creates a vibrant community for theatre enthusiasts. It’s a space where performers, directors, and audiences come together to exchange ideas, celebrate new works, and build connections. Adding to the excitement, audience members will play an active role in the festival by voting for the Best of Show, culminating in a thrilling competition to crown the audience favorite.

Join us at Hendersonville Theatre for an evening of exceptional storytelling, spirited performances, and a shared love for the craft of theatre. Don’t miss your chance to experience the excitement, engagement, and inspiration of the One Act Play Festival!

Show A
Thursday, November 6 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 8 at 3 pm
Sunday, November 9 at 3 pm
Friday, November 14 at 7:30 pm
Show B
Friday, November 7 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 8 at 7:30 pm
Thursday, November 13 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 15 at 3 pm
Best of Show
Sunday, November 16 at 3 pm

Approximate Run Time: 2 hours

The Gift
Nov 8 all-day
Diana Wortham Theatre

Paperhand Puppet Project presents The Gift

Friday, Nov 7 •  7:30 pm
Saturday, Nov 8 •  3 pm & 7:30 pm
Sunday, Nov 9 •  3 pm

Stories move on the water. The water moves in all things. Life moves in dynamic patterns that weave like currents and rich tapestries that shape who we are. We may sometimes fall short of such states of grace. We readily receive the gifts the world provides with no explicit expectations in return. Yet reciprocity could very well be our best pathway to survival. We can decide to give back, and now is the time. We were built for this. Made for it.

We humbly request the gift of your presence as we seek this balance. Let the Grandmothers tell you a story that you didn’t know you needed. Let the water protectors and heroines of justice sing you a song of resilience. Let us share a moment of connection, wonder and gratitude. Let us create this, our future, together — through art!

Join us in honoring the rare gift that is life on Earth as we celebrate Paperhand’s 25th year! Come and experience the magic of giant puppets, masks, stilts, painted cardboard and cloth, illuminated puppets and shadows all set to original live music in a performance for all ages. See you at the show!

Yellow Brick Joel: The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John
Nov 8 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

Calling all fans of classic rock and pop! Don’t miss your chance to experience the incredible sounds of two of music’s greatest legends, Billy Joel and Elton John, brought to life by the ultimate tribute band! DAVID CLARK performs as BILLY JOEL along with BILL CONNORS as ELTON JOHN. This tribute show promises to evoke a wave of nostalgia and joy with hits like “I’m Still Standing”, “Rocket Man”, “Piano Man” and “You May Be Right.” The iconic hits don’t stop, and you won’t want them to!

Event Times: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Ticket Prices: $48 / $58 / $68

Child Pricing Available (17 & under)

Naturalist Niche: Ridge Hike
Nov 8 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park

Naturalist Niche: Ridge Hike

Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Cost: $25 Adult, $15 Youth (ages 5-15) | $11 Adult Annual Passholder, $9 Youth Annual Passholder
Thanksgiving Potluck
Nov 8 @ 11:00 am – 4:30 pm
Animal Haven of Asheville

Celebrate compassion and community at our 4th annual ThanksLiving event! Bring a vegan dish to share, enjoy a peaceful afternoon with our 70+ rescued animals, and hear from special guest Gene Baur, co-founder of Farm Sanctuary and renowned animal advocate.

Schedule: 11-1: Potluck | 1-2:30: Animal visits | 2:30-4:30: Gene Baur presentation & Q&A
🎟️ Tickets are limited and advance purchase is required; no day-of ticket sales | $37.50 early bird (through Oct. 26) $45 regular (Oct. 27–Nov. 7)
🍽️ Bring a vegan dish (serves 8–10), plate, utensils and drink 🌧️ Rain or shine | 🪑Tables and chairs provided | 🚙Offsite parking and shuttle service available
🍉 Optional animal donations: unbleached pumpkins, melons, apples

Ticket URL: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/thanksliving-potluck

Juked
Nov 8 @ 7:30 pm
Tina McGuire Theatre

Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective presents

Juked – RESCHEDULED

PLEASE NOTE: Performances of DS!PAC’s JUKED originally scheduled for February 6–23, 2025 and May 1-18, 2025 have been rescheduled again to November 6 – 23, 2025. Ticket holders will be contacted with more information.

Thursday – Saturday, November 6 – 22, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 23, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.

WORLD PREMIERE written by Mildred Inez Lewis

Juked is a retelling of Sophocles’ tragedy Electra. This version is set in 1950s Asheville and the “kingdom” is a chain of drink houses (private homes offering illegal alcohol) owned by the well-off, African-American Memnon family. Juked examines the relationship between Electra, her mother, and her sister, and asks what happens after tragedy. How do we recover? Juked is part of the Emerging Black Playwrights New Play Series and first debuted in its development phase, as a staged reading in November 2023.

Sunday, November 9, 2025
Is This a Room
Nov 9 all-day
NC State Company

THRILLER | SUSPENSE | TRUE STORY

A 25-year-old former Air Force linguist named Reality Winner is surprised at her home by the FBI, interrogated, and then charged with leaking evidence of Russian interference in U.S elections. Reality was given a record breaking sentence and was released from prison to a half-way house on June 2, 2021 for good behavior.

The FBI transcript of her interrogation is the heart of Is This a Room, conceived as a play and directed by Obie Award-winner Tina Satter, in which an extraordinary human drama unfolds between the complex and witty Reality, and the agents who question her. As Reality’s autonomy shrinks before her eyes, a simmering real-life thriller emerges, asking what it is to have honor in this American moment, and how the personal can reverberate globally.

Performances of Is This a Room will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.

November 5 – November 23

Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm

Friday November 7 at 7:30pm (Pay What You Can Night)

Other Fridays and Sundays at 2pm