Calendar of Events

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.

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.

We’re back in the heart of Hendersonville and we’re bringing some spirited fun—with an awesome new race shirt and shiny finisher medal for every participant. Costumes? Highly encouraged. FOMO? Guaranteed if you skip it. Run or walk through the Historic 7th Avenue District with a crowd of costumed runners, then keep the party going at the Fall Festival just steps from the finish line!

Town of Fletcher presents Halloween Crawl from 12-1pm with trick or treating, inflatables, games and a DJ.

Get ready to roll into fall! The Pumpkin Pedaller, benefitting Asheville on Bikes, is back on Saturday, Oct. 25th at New Belgium Brewing. Join the community for a fun, festive bike ride celebrating everything that makes riding in Asheville special.

Event Schedule:
1:30pm – 7pm: Pop-Up Bike Park
2pm: Pedal Prep (15 minute ride brief + safe rider habits talk)
1:30-2:30pm: Entry for Costume Contest
2:30pm: Costume Contest!
3pm: Rides stagger start and depart New Belgium
4-5pm: Staggered return
5pm – 7pm: Continued bicycle frolic

2025 Costume Contest Categories: Best Group, Best Kids Costume, Local Life, Best Use of Bike

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.

Adapted from the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn, written by Sandy Rustin, additional material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price

October 16-26 , 2025

Thursday, 10/16 at 7:30 (pay what you can available 10/2)
Fridays at 7:30
Saturday at 3 pm
Sundays at 3 pm

Director: Jennifer Treadway

Approximate Run Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Rating: PG-13 due to adult situations, language, depictions of smoking, and alcohol use.

Based on the iconic 1985 Paramount movie inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is a hilarious farce-meets-murder mystery. The tale begins at a remote mansion, where six mysterious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party, and murder and blackmail are on the menu. When their host turns up dead, they all become suspects. Led by Wadsworth–the butler, Miss Scarlet, Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock, and Colonel Mustard race to find the killer as the body count stacks up. Clue is the comedy whodunit that will leave cult fans and newcomers in stitches as they try to figure out…WHO did it, WHERE, and with WHAT!

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

She Kills Monsters is a heartfelt and humorous story about Agnes, who discovers her late sister Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons campaign. As she navigates Tilly’s fantasy world, Agnes uncovers hidden truths about her sister’s life, grief, and their bond, blending fantasy adventure with real-world emotions. Shows are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 7:30 each night by the Montford Park Players. And always FREE! No Sunday performances for the last weekend of each show.

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.

Join AVL Clay for a day of creativity, connection, and clay!
AVL Clay, Asheville’s new membership-based pottery studio, invites the community to its Grand Opening Open House on Sunday, October 26, 10 AM–1 PM at 4 Mulvaney St, Asheville.
Explore the beautifully restored 1920s studio along the Swannanoa River, meet founder Arleen Ferrara, and enjoy live pottery demos, guided tours, raffles, one-day-only class specials, and refreshments.
AVL Clay was founded to rebuild creative space lost after Hurricane Helene and to foster meaningful community through clay.
Free and open to all! Family-friendly, drop in anytime, and pets are welcome.

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.

Animal Haven of Asheville Annual Fall Fundraiser

📅 Sunday, October 26 | 2–6 PM 📍 65 Lower Grassy Branch Rd, Asheville, NC

Celebrate compassion and community at our annual fundraiser! Enjoy a full vegan buffet, drinks, live music by Southern Style Band, a silent auction, and interactive animal stations. All proceeds support our animals and help build a memorial barn honoring co-founder Barb Bellows.

🎟️ Early-bird tickets: $37.50 (until Oct 19) | $45 after 👧 Kids under 12 attend free 🚐 Parking and shuttle service provided

Ticket URL: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/fall-fundraiser-5

Reserve your spot and help us raise the barn!\

After being cancelled last year due to Helene, our annual fundraiser Walk For Your Neighbor is BACK! Please join us on Sunday, October 26 at First Baptist Church of Swannanoa for a walk and block party! There will be music, as well as food and drink! The walk will start at 2pm, with the block party continuing until 5pm.

To register for Walk for Your Neighbor, just scan the QR code on this flyer, or follow the link below. Registration is by donation only, but we are encouraging a $20 minimum donation for those who are able. You can also ask family and friends to sponsor your walk using the donation link you receive when you register. To be cost and environmentally conscious, we will be using last year’s t-shirts.

Our valley is still recovering and needs remain high. The more we raise through this walk, the more we can tangibly share the love of Christ with neighbors in need through food, clothing, baby supplies, healthcare, home repairs, and so much more! We hope you’ll give generously, lace up those sneakers, and come walk with us!

Adapted from the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn, written by Sandy Rustin, additional material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price

October 16-26 , 2025

Thursday, 10/16 at 7:30 (pay what you can available 10/2)
Fridays at 7:30
Saturday at 3 pm
Sundays at 3 pm

Director: Jennifer Treadway

Approximate Run Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Rating: PG-13 due to adult situations, language, depictions of smoking, and alcohol use.

Based on the iconic 1985 Paramount movie inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is a hilarious farce-meets-murder mystery. The tale begins at a remote mansion, where six mysterious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party, and murder and blackmail are on the menu. When their host turns up dead, they all become suspects. Led by Wadsworth–the butler, Miss Scarlet, Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock, and Colonel Mustard race to find the killer as the body count stacks up. Clue is the comedy whodunit that will leave cult fans and newcomers in stitches as they try to figure out…WHO did it, WHERE, and with WHAT!

Enjoy an evening of community and music with An Evening for All Souls: A Gathering of Song and Spirit, Sunday, Oct. 26 at Kanuga. The evening begins at 4 p.m. at Kanuga Lake with a community choir workshop, followed by dinner and luminaria making on the Rocking Chair Porch Lawn at 5 p.m., and concludes with a concert by musical artist Roots Grown Deep at 6 p.m., with a luminaria release on the lake at dusk. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. Cost: Concert only, $9.94; Concert & Dinner, $21.33. Location: 471 Kanuga Chapel Dr. in Hendersonville. Registration and more info at kanuga.org/events.

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

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.

Wortham Center Student Series Donna Washington: A Little Shiver

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!

The Black Mountain Library is excited to welcome Redhawk Publications to the Community Room on Wednesday, October 29th, from 6:00-7:30 p.m. for an evening of poetry readings from their new anthology “Had I a Dove: Appalachian Poets On The Helene Flood”

This anthology features over eighty poets from our region who contributed poems on their perspectives of Helene. Several poets from the anthology will be reading their works at this free event.

Redhawk Publications will be selling copies of the anthology for $20 each.

Award-winning garden blogger, Lisa Wagner, encourages creative ways to plan, record, and reflect on your journeys through the seasons in your garden and landscape.

🎉 Calling All Young Entrepreneurs! 🍅
We are so excited to partner with UNC-Asheville Men’s Soccer Game for a day of goals and great ideas!

🌟 Got a kid with a big idea? Whether it’s homemade crafts, baked goods, lemonade stands, or creative services—this is their chance to shine!

🍅 Visit kids markets.com

Sign up your child’s booth 🌽
Explore upcoming children’s markets 🎨
Support young local entrepreneurs 💼

Come support the Bulldogs on the field and young entrepreneurs on the sidelines as kids run their very own businesses—selling everything from handcrafted goods to tasty snacks.
It’s a fun, family-friendly event that celebrates local talent and community spirit!