Master Gardener volunteers will be available to answer all of your gardening questions and address your related concerns. Feel free to bring plant or insect samples for identification and/or problem resolution.

You can pick-up soil test kits and receive information about in-person programs and activities at The Learning Garden and the schedule for the Gardening in the Mountains, online seminars.

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.

Nourish your body, mind, and soul by experiencing a variety of offerings to bring balance and peace to your life during these times. Ample free time allows participants to nap, hike around the lake, journal, or explore Kanuga. Led by Chantal McKinney, a life-long seeker of the Divine. She is a writer, speaker, entrepreneur, coach, consultant, practitioner of community development, and former church planter who walks among the two worlds of faith and spirituality.

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.

THE MOTH Presents: Asheville StorySLAM – “HOSPITALITY”

All Ages

Thursday, June 19

Doors: 6:30pm // Show: 7:30pm

Grey Eagle Music Hall

The Moth StorySLAM is an open-mic storytelling competition in which anyone can share a true, personal, 5-minute story on the night’s theme. Sign up for a chance to tell a story or sit back and enjoy the show! Tonight’s theme is…

HOSPITALITY: Cook up a five-minute story about the beauty and occasional chaos of saying, “Come on in.” Early mornings, late nights, clopening, or back-to-back doubles. Serving your crushtomer or the dread of the house guest that overstayed their welcome. Standing for 8 hours, remembering to smile, and only sometimes crying in the walk-in. Testing mettle and memory. Can I speak to the manager?

Doors Open: 6:30 PM

Show Starts: 7:30 PM

Tickets for Asheville StorySLAMs go on sale 3 weeks prior to the show date at 3 PM ET.

Seating is not guaranteed and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the show. Admission is not guaranteed for late arrivals. All sales final. As many as 10 tickets may be available at the door for all of our StorySLAMs on a first-come, first-served basis.

Kristin Hillegas, owner of Serenity Sound Healing of Asheville, offers a nurturing sanctuary for deep rest, renewal, and inner harmony.
With over 25 years in the Healing Arts, she uses the power of intention to gently guide you into states of relaxation and energetic balance through sound baths with singing bowls, chimes, gongs and more.
Kristin’s sessions support stress relief, emotional healing, clarity, and peace—inviting the body and spirit to return to their natural rhythm of wholeness.

$20 in Advance, $25 at the door

Master Gardener volunteers will be available to answer all of your gardening questions and address your related concerns. Feel free to bring plant or insect samples for identification and/or problem resolution.

You can pick-up soil test kits and receive information about in-person programs and activities at The Learning Garden and the schedule for the Gardening in the Mountains, online seminars.

Celebrate the light of Summer with a one hour Summer Solstice Sound Bath! A sound bath can cleanse your soul, restore your balance, surround you with peace and tranquility and stimulate healing.

For the meditation, we will feel the warmth of the sun on your skin as you bask in the suns gentle rays imagining the light penetrating your body with healing energy.

Note: Please bring a mat/blankets/pillow since you will be lying on the floor.
Wear comfortable and flexible clothing.

Choose your space starting at 12:45 pm, doors close promptly at 1:00 pm.

Sliding Scale $10-$20

NOTE: Accessible parking is available in the Center for Spiritual Living Asheville upper parking lot. The entrance to the upper parking lot is off of S. Bear Creek Rd between Science of Mind Way and Sand Hill Rd.
There is a boardwalk walk way from the upper parking lot to the building entrance.

Celebrate the light of Summer with a one hour Summer Solstice Sound Bath! A sound bath can cleanse your soul, restore your balance, surround you with peace and tranquility and stimulate healing.

For the meditation, we will feel the warmth of the sun on your skin as you bask in the suns gentle rays imagining the light penetrating your body with healing energy.
Note: Please bring a mat/blankets/pillow since you will be lying on the floor.
Wear comfortable and flexible clothing.
Choose your space starting at 12:45 pm, doors close promptly at 1:00 pm.

NOTE: Accessible parking is available in the Center for Spiritual Living Asheville upper parking lot. The entrance to the upper parking lot is off of S. Bear Creek Rd between Science of Mind Way and Sand Hill Rd.
There is a boardwalk walk way from the upper parking lot to the building entrance.

Affable, charismatic and one of a kind, Fortune Feimster is a standup comedian, writer and actor who uses her confessional comedy to bring people together. Through laughter and storytelling, Fortune shows audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and sexual orientations that common ground is only a joke or two away.

Join the magical fairies at Bullington Gardens for a special Fairy Tea Party. Start your journey with a guided walk through the Fairy Trail. Your child will make their own wand followed by tea and cookies in the pavilion. This event is for children ages 7 and up. Each child must be accompanied by an adult.

Three different dates to choose from!

June 10th, June 24th, or July 12th at 10:00AM, $28.00/per child, $21 for Friends of Bullington Gardens. Limit of 12 children per event.

Join us for a welcoming and inclusive New Moon Circle, where all bodies and all genders are invited to participate in this sacred gathering. This event is a beautiful opportunity to pause, reflect, and align with the energies of the New Moon—a powerful time for setting intentions and manifesting our desires for the month ahead.

Our circle will begin with a grounding meditation, creating a space for relaxation and inner connection. Together, we will share our personal intentions, holding space for one another in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. We will also dive into the astrological influences of the New Moon and other energetic currents, discussed in an accessible way that resonates with both beginners and seasoned practitioners.

By the end of the circle, you will leave with greater clarity and purpose, feeling empowered to take inspired action as you move forward into the new lunar cycle. Whether you’re new to moon rituals or a longtime participant, this circle will offer insight, connection, and a sense of renewal.

Come as you are—everyone is welcome. Let’s harness the magic of the New Moon together!

Bring your friends and remember to carpool!

This is a free event.

All donations are welcome to help support the use of the event venue.

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.

Wednesday June 25, 2025.
7:30p-9:30p, doors at 6:30p
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge, 103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $17 (available at door or The Orange Peel’s website)
These shows sellout!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley from Netflix & Amazon Prime!
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!!
Free snacks while availability lasts! You may bring your own food in (no drinks)!
Winners from 3/27 & 5/14 Contestants: Cayla Clark, Darren Harper, Sarah Love, Mackenzie Manent, Foster & Jordan Ballard

Master Gardener volunteers will be available to answer all of your gardening questions and address your related concerns. Feel free to bring plant or insect samples for identification and/or problem resolution.

You can pick-up soil test kits and receive information about in-person programs and activities at The Learning Garden and the schedule for the Gardening in the Mountains, online seminars.

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.

Sonic Spheres
The Sphere Of Mystery

Join us for an immersive sound journey into the mystery of vibration and resonance. More than just sound waves traveling through air, sound is the invisible thread weaving together all of existence – connecting stars to our beating hearts, and speaking directly to the soul.

“If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.” – Nikola Tesla

You will be gently guided through layers of harmonic tones and resonant frequencies designed to calm the mind, open the heart, and awaken profound inner balance. Each sound becomes a gateway, carrying messages beyond words and inviting you to journey inward, beyond thought and time.

This is the first, inaugural Sonic Sphere. They each will have a theme, a specific instrumentation and/or carry their own unique quality. Each one offers a sacred space where every vibration holds a secret, every silence hums with possibility, and every tone helps you reconnect to the universal rhythm that connects us all.

Be the first to experience ✩ The Sphere of Mystery ✩

Please bring any comfort items you might want: a pillow, blanket, eye mask, etc. We have a limited number here to offer.

The energetic exchange starts at $20. Please be generous and give more if you can to support both facilitator and host. Spaces are limited.

Reserve your place HERE or RSVP through Meetup.

Note: If the number of participants is less than 4, the event might be canceled.

Quantum Energy Healing: Group Session & Journey

The medicine is inside of you.
Waiting to be awakened & activated.

Repair the nervous system, release limitations, clear trauma, resolve imbalances, restore health, expand your gifts, find deeper alignment to spirit, align to your divine purpose & embody more of your light.

Each person in group receives an entire hour of energy work and the specific codes to support them on their unique path.

This will activate the body’s self healing capabilities leading you towards your unlimited potential.

Make a cozy nest, sit or lay in meditation & be guided on a journey to activate your potential while clearing what’s in the way. Allow yourself to be transported into your inner world where messages, clarity & inspiration are found while alignment & transformation is experienced.

Quantum Activations*
Breathwork*
Guided Journey*
Energy Work/Clearing*
Light Codes*
Healing for mind, body, spirit*
Sweet community vibes & a time for you to receive, release, realign & recalibrate. Space after for optional connection & sharing.

Sliding Scale $20-$40: Cash, Venmo, PayPal

Botanical Drawing for Beginners with Camille Daunno

Tuesday, July 1  |  11 am – 1 pm

During this beginner level class, you will learn several drawing techniques including line, shading, pen and ink. We will discuss composition with contour, contrast and texture and how to use watercolor to complete your drawing. We will experiment with different techniques to enhance your personal style. All materials and supplies will be provided.

Group Heart & Sound Magic

Open and release….An evening with our hearts including meditation, story telling, astrology, movement, Self expression and a Gong Sound healing journey.

In a rapidly changing world and paradigm, let’s gather to anchor light for the collective. We are the ones who are called for this deeper level of journey and service.

Join multi-creative Sammy Vanek & sound awakener David Heiss for an evening of deep meditative contact, individual expansion, and group-heart spellcasting with our collective.

The flow for the evening: we’ll settle into a meditative space led by Sammy, deepen with a legendary sound journey by David, and invite group vocal expression to release what’s ready be set free.
For It’s all about the experience and what you do with it!
Let’s deepen, bloom, and have some fun while we do it.

Suggested Donation scale between $22-$44

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.

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.

Sacred Qi Gong with Genie

Thursdays in July | 6:00–7:30 PM at Energetic Experiences

Join us for a weekly QiGong class that blends gentle movement, breath, and awareness to restore your body’s natural balance and vitality.
QiGong (pronounced “chee-gong”) is an ancient practice that cultivates Qi, or life force energy, through intentional movement and meditative focus. With consistent practice, QiGong can support emotional well-being, physical resilience, and spiritual clarity.

Each class is guided by Genie Hardee, a longtime practitioner known for her grounded, heart-centered approach. Expect a welcoming atmosphere, accessible practices, and guidance rooted in decades of experience.

✨ All levels welcome – beginners encouraged
✨ No special attire or equipment needed
✨ Come as you are, ready to breathe and move

Pricing:
$20 per class
4-class pack: $17 per class

Whether you’re exploring QiGong for healing, relaxation, or personal transformation, this is a beautiful place to begin or deepen your journey.

Sacred Qi Gong with Genie

Thursdays in July | 6:00–7:30 PM at Energetic Experiences

Join us for a weekly QiGong class that blends gentle movement, breath, and awareness to restore your body’s natural balance and vitality.
QiGong (pronounced “chee-gong”) is an ancient practice that cultivates Qi, or life force energy, through intentional movement and meditative focus. With consistent practice, QiGong can support emotional well-being, physical resilience, and spiritual clarity.

Each class is guided by Genie Hardee, a longtime practitioner known for her grounded, heart-centered approach. Expect a welcoming atmosphere, accessible practices, and guidance rooted in decades of experience.

✨ All levels welcome – beginners encouraged
✨ No special attire or equipment needed
✨ Come as you are, ready to breathe and move

Pricing:
$20 per class
4-class pack: $17 per class

Whether you’re exploring QiGong for healing, relaxation, or personal transformation, this is a beautiful place to begin or deepen your journey.

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.

Celebrate the Full Moon by immersing yourself with the healing vibrations of a Sound Bath! The full moon offers a boost in healing to our energy field.

Join your host Kristin Hillegas, for a one-hour Serenity Sound Bath and experience a deeply immersive, full-body sound and vibrational experience. A sound bath can cleanse your soul, restore your balance, surround you with peace and tranquility and stimulate healing.

Note: Please bring a yoga mat/pillow/blanket since you will be lying on the floor. Wear warm, comfortable, and flexible clothing.

The Sound Bath will take place upstairs in the Education Building. Choose your space starting at 6:15 PM, doors close promptly at 6:30 PM.

This session is being offered on a Sliding Scale of $10-$20.

Accessible parking is available in the Center for Spiritual Living Asheville upper parking lot. The entrance to the upper parking lot is off of S. Bear Creek Rd between Science of Mind Way and Sand Hill Rd.
There is a boardwalk walk-way from the upper parking lot to the building entrance.

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.

Beach Babes Standup Comedy Show
The Orange Peel
July 11, 8p-9:30pm
$18
Beach vibes in the mountain! Standup Comedy of Roman Fraden, featuring Cayla Clark, Zandra Johnson & Makenzie Manent. Guest spot by the Leah Garth. Hosted by Hilliary Begley

Beach Babes Standup Comedy Show brings the vibes to the mountains in the heart of downtown Asheville! Roman Fraden his not for the faint of heart. 18+
Roman is a Los Angeles-based comedian and a regular performer at classic Hollywood venues including The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory, and The Hollywood Improv. He has trained with Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Theatre, performed in various ensemble casts in film and on stage, and has opened for Mark Normand, Margaret Cho, and Patton Oswald. His one man show ‘Back In The Closet’ made it’s world premiere at Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2018. He currently is living in Asheville while still performing everywhere.
Host Hilliary Begley from NETFLIX & AMAZON PRIME, this beach babe will keep you laughing.
Featuring Cayla Clark from BLIND DATELIVE, who is very pregnant on this show but still one of the funniest people around (check out her famous instagram).
Also featuring comedy favorites Zandra Johnson & Makenzie Manent, with a guest spot by the always zany Leah Garth.