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, February 12, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 12 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Friday, February 13, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 13 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Saturday, February 14, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 14 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Sunday, February 15, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 15 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Monday, February 16, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 16 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 17 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance
Feb 17 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Wortham Presents Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance

Tue & Wed, Feb 17 & 18 • 8 pm

For over 50 years, Ailey II has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers. One of America’s most popular dance companies, Ailey II brings fresh perspectives to Alvin Ailey’s legacy—propelling the next generation forward.

“Clearly, the future is theirs.” —The New York Times

Connect with the artists in a dance masterclass and preshow discussions.

Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance
Feb 17 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Tue & Wed, Feb 17 & 18 • 8 pm

For over 50 years, Ailey II has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers. One of America’s most popular dance companies, Ailey II brings fresh perspectives to Alvin Ailey’s legacy—propelling the next generation forward.

“Clearly, the future is theirs.” —The New York Times

Connect with the artists in a dance masterclass and preshow discussions.

Spotlight on Ailey II:

Founded in 1974 by Alvin Ailey to spotlight rising dance talent and visionary choreographers
Bridges the gap between student training and professional performance for early-career dancers
At least half the members of the main company are Ailey II alumni
Led for 38 seasons by Sylvia Waters, handpicked by Ailey himself
Now under the direction of Francesca Harper, a former student at The Ailey School, bringing bold, inclusive, and experimental energy

Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance
Feb 18 @ 10:00 am
Diana Wortham Theatre

Wortham Center Student Series Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance

Wed, Feb 18 • 10 am

Grades 6–12
Show length: 60 minutes

For over 50 years, Ailey II has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers. As one of America’s most popular dance companies, Ailey II brings fresh perspectives to Alvin Ailey’s legacy, propelling the next generation forward. With breathtaking talent, innovative choreography, and impeccable technique, Ailey II delivers performances that captivate and inspire audiences.

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

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

Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance
Feb 18 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Wortham Presents Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance

Tue & Wed, Feb 17 & 18 • 8 pm

For over 50 years, Ailey II has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers. One of America’s most popular dance companies, Ailey II brings fresh perspectives to Alvin Ailey’s legacy—propelling the next generation forward.

“Clearly, the future is theirs.” —The New York Times

Connect with the artists in a dance masterclass and preshow discussions.

Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance
Feb 18 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Tue & Wed, Feb 17 & 18 • 8 pm

For over 50 years, Ailey II has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers. One of America’s most popular dance companies, Ailey II brings fresh perspectives to Alvin Ailey’s legacy—propelling the next generation forward.

“Clearly, the future is theirs.” —The New York Times

Connect with the artists in a dance masterclass and preshow discussions.

Spotlight on Ailey II:

Founded in 1974 by Alvin Ailey to spotlight rising dance talent and visionary choreographers
Bridges the gap between student training and professional performance for early-career dancers
At least half the members of the main company are Ailey II alumni
Led for 38 seasons by Sylvia Waters, handpicked by Ailey himself
Now under the direction of Francesca Harper, a former student at The Ailey School, bringing bold, inclusive, and experimental energy

Thursday, February 19, 2026
Sal Vulcano
Feb 19 @ 7:00 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Staten Island native Sal Vulcano is best known for creating and starring in truTV’s long-running hit “Impractical Jokers,” and for “The Misery Index” on TBS. In addition to performing as part of The Tenderloins Comedy Troupe to sold-out arenas, Sal founded the No Presh Network in 2020, hosting “Hey Babe!” and “Taste Buds” podcasts. Sal’s debut solo comedy special ‘Terrified’ was released in May 2024 on YouTube.

Friday, February 20, 2026
Joshua Lozoff: Life is Magic
Feb 20 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Wortham Presents Joshua Lozoff: Life is Magic

Fri, Feb 20 • 7 pm

Awe-inspiring illusions. Mind-boggling mental demonstrations. Captivating storytelling. Prepare to be astonished as Joshua Lozoff includes audience members of all ages in this highly interactive show. As seen on CluelessCheers, and Penn & Teller: Fool Us, this enchanting performer will ignite your imagination.

Thursday, February 26, 2026
Circus EVO’s “Solstice: a Winter Circus Experience”
Feb 26 – Feb 27 all-day
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Circus EVO returns to Asheville with “Solstice: a Winter Circus Experience”! Back by popular demand, Solstice is a one-of-a-kind theatrical journey that blends contemporary circus, dance, and physical theatre into a breathtaking 75-minute performance. Featuring a cast of world-class artists from across the United States, Solstice tells the story of a woman who loses her inner light and finds herself plunged into a surreal world where memories come to life and the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

Through awe-inspiring acrobatic acts, woven together with evocative lighting design, original music, immersive scenery, and a touch of snowfall magic, Solstice captures the imagination and awakens the spirit. This is more than a circus—it’s a heartfelt narrative brought to life through movement, emotion, and artistry. Audiences of all ages will leave feeling like kids again, reminded of the wonder of winter and the power of rediscovering joy.

City Dance
Feb 26 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Friday, February 27, 2026
The Comedy Zone: Michael Palascak
Feb 27 @ 8:00 pm
Tina McGuire Theatre

Wortham Presents

The Comedy Zone: Michael Palascak

Fri & Sat, Feb 27 & 28 • 8 pm

Michael Palascak, featured on The Late Show and The Late Late Show, was a Top 5 Finalist on Last Comic Standing. Known for his sharp, personal material and likability, his specials 1984 and The Internet Live reflect his optimistic humor, including his YouTube series The Bright Side.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

The Comedy Zone: Michael Palascak
Feb 27 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Fri & Sat, Feb 27 & 28 • 8 pm
Michael Palascak, featured on The Late Show and The Late Late Show, was a Top 5 Finalist on Last Comic Standing. Known for his sharp, personal material and likability, his specials 1984 and The Internet Live reflect his optimistic humor, including his YouTube series The Bright Side.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

Saturday, February 28, 2026
The Comedy Zone: Michael Palascak
Feb 28 @ 8:00 pm
Tina McGuire Theatre

Wortham Presents

The Comedy Zone: Michael Palascak

Fri & Sat, Feb 27 & 28 • 8 pm

Michael Palascak, featured on The Late Show and The Late Late Show, was a Top 5 Finalist on Last Comic Standing. Known for his sharp, personal material and likability, his specials 1984 and The Internet Live reflect his optimistic humor, including his YouTube series The Bright Side.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

The Comedy Zone: Michael Palascak
Feb 28 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Fri & Sat, Feb 27 & 28 • 8 pm
Michael Palascak, featured on The Late Show and The Late Late Show, was a Top 5 Finalist on Last Comic Standing. Known for his sharp, personal material and likability, his specials 1984 and The Internet Live reflect his optimistic humor, including his YouTube series The Bright Side.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery: The Trouble with Angels
Mar 3 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Wortham Presents

Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery: The Trouble with Angels

Tue, Mar 3 • 7 pm

Join Emmy Award-winner Jane Lynch (GleeOnly Murders in the Building) and the hilariously charming Kate Flannery (The Office) for a raucous night of classic tunes, live comedy, and devilish charm. It’s part cabaret, part stand-up, and all sass—because when these angels get together, heaven can wait.

Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery: The Trouble with Angels
Mar 3 @ 7:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Tue, Mar 3 • 7 pm

Join Emmy Award-winner Jane Lynch (Glee, Only Murders in the Building) and the hilariously charming Kate Flannery (The Office) for a raucous night of classic tunes, live comedy, and devilish charm. It’s part cabaret, part stand-up, and all sass—because when these angels get together, heaven can wait.

Spotlight on Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery:

Jane Lynch is a five-time Emmy winner, celebrated for her roles in Glee, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Only Murders in the Building
Lynch is a recurring favorite in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries, including A Mighty Wind and Best in Show
Kate Flannery won hearts as Meredith on the hit NBC series The Office
Flannery also hit the road with Dancing with the Stars, performing live at Radio City Music Hall and across 40 cities
Their holiday album A Swingin’ Little Christmas landed in Billboard’s Top 10 Adult Contemporary chart, bringing jazzy cheer and campy charm to audiences nationwide

Friday, March 6, 2026
2026 Spring Conference
Mar 6 – Mar 8 all-day
Mars Hill University

Join us for the Southeast’s largest gathering of farmers, gardeners, land-stewards, and food-system changemakers! Our Spring Conference supports, inspires, and educates people to farm, garden, and live organically by providing affordable, practical, hands-on education. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting out, you’ll leave with connections, knowledge, and inspiration to build a more vibrant, equitable, and abundant food and farming system.

What’s in store:
• Your choice of 60+ classes spanning across 12 track topics including gardening, soils, farming business and production, earth stewardship, sustainable living, and more
• Hands-on workshops from experts across the region and practical demonstrations you can apply right away
• Networking and community-building with growers, educators, and advocates from across the country

Friday, March 13, 2026
Bodytraffic-Student series
Mar 13 @ 10:00 am
Diana Wortham Theatre

Wortham Center Student Series

BODYTRAFFIC

Fri, Mar 13 • 10 am

Grades 6–12
Show length: 60 minutes

Since its founding in Los Angeles in 2007, BODYTRAFFIC has been a powerful force in contemporary dance. This internationally renowned dance company is celebrated for its technical prowess and versatility, with artists expertly mastering a repertoire that spans ballet, contemporary, modern, Afro-Cuban, and hip hop genres. Known for its stunning performers and diverse technical mastery, BODYTRAFFIC is committed to a dynamic repertoire that captivates both dance lovers and newcomers alike.

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

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

BODYTRAFFIC
Mar 13 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Fri & Sat, Mar 13 & 14 • 8 pm

Bursting with cutting-edge “vivid theatricality,” BODYTRAFFIC conquered the contemporary dance world with stunning performers, technical excellence, and a repertoire spanning ballet, modern, Afro-Cuban, and hip-hop. Championing acclaimed choreographers, this company ignites stories with explosive energy and sheer joy.

“Absolutely joyous and oh-so-entertaining!” —Broadway World

“As the dance world navigates the future of contemporary, BODYTRAFFIC leads the way.” —Theater Jones

“They’re the kind of people you could watch dance anything all night.” —The San Francisco Chronicle

Connect with the artists in a dance masterclass and preshow discussions.

Spotlight on BODYTRAFFIC:

Known for expressive, story-driven movement that brings complex characters to life
Founded in 2007 by dancer Tina Finkelman Berkett, the company is celebrating 18 years of innovation in movement
The name “BODYTRAFFIC” was selected to evoke both dance and its hometown of Los Angeles
The company commissions bold new works that reflect diverse cultural perspectives and contemporary issues
Their performances have been featured at prestigious festivals including The Holland Dance Festival and Context. Diana Vishneva

Saturday, March 14, 2026
BODYTRAFFIC
Mar 14 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Fri & Sat, Mar 13 & 14 • 8 pm

Bursting with cutting-edge “vivid theatricality,” BODYTRAFFIC conquered the contemporary dance world with stunning performers, technical excellence, and a repertoire spanning ballet, modern, Afro-Cuban, and hip-hop. Championing acclaimed choreographers, this company ignites stories with explosive energy and sheer joy.

“Absolutely joyous and oh-so-entertaining!” —Broadway World

“As the dance world navigates the future of contemporary, BODYTRAFFIC leads the way.” —Theater Jones

“They’re the kind of people you could watch dance anything all night.” —The San Francisco Chronicle

Connect with the artists in a dance masterclass and preshow discussions.

Spotlight on BODYTRAFFIC:

Known for expressive, story-driven movement that brings complex characters to life
Founded in 2007 by dancer Tina Finkelman Berkett, the company is celebrating 18 years of innovation in movement
The name “BODYTRAFFIC” was selected to evoke both dance and its hometown of Los Angeles
The company commissions bold new works that reflect diverse cultural perspectives and contemporary issues
Their performances have been featured at prestigious festivals including The Holland Dance Festival and Context. Diana Vishneva

Thursday, March 26, 2026
City Dance
Mar 26 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Friday, April 3, 2026
The Comedy Zone: Kevin Bozeman
Apr 3 @ 8:00 pm
Tina McGuire Theatre

Wortham Presents

The Comedy Zone: Kevin Bozeman

Fri & Sat, Apr 3 & 4 • 8 pm

In 1999, Kevin, inspired by Def Comedy Jam, tried stand-up at an open-mic night. Today, with a smooth, clever style and contagious laugh, he entertains nationwide. A winner of the HBO Comedy Competition and a Last Comic Standing semi-finalist, his Dry Bar special has over 7 million views.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

The Comedy Zone: Kevin Bozeman
Apr 3 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Fri & Sat, Apr 3 & 4 • 8 pm

In 1999, Kevin, inspired by Def Comedy Jam, tried stand-up at an open-mic night. Today, with a smooth, clever style and contagious laugh, he entertains nationwide. A winner of the HBO Comedy Competition and a Last Comic Standing semi-finalist, his Dry Bar special has over 7 million views.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

Saturday, April 4, 2026
The Comedy Zone: Kevin Bozeman
Apr 4 @ 8:00 pm
Tina McGuire Theatre

Wortham Presents

The Comedy Zone: Kevin Bozeman

Fri & Sat, Apr 3 & 4 • 8 pm

In 1999, Kevin, inspired by Def Comedy Jam, tried stand-up at an open-mic night. Today, with a smooth, clever style and contagious laugh, he entertains nationwide. A winner of the HBO Comedy Competition and a Last Comic Standing semi-finalist, his Dry Bar special has over 7 million views.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

The Comedy Zone: Kevin Bozeman
Apr 4 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Fri & Sat, Apr 3 & 4 • 8 pm

In 1999, Kevin, inspired by Def Comedy Jam, tried stand-up at an open-mic night. Today, with a smooth, clever style and contagious laugh, he entertains nationwide. A winner of the HBO Comedy Competition and a Last Comic Standing semi-finalist, his Dry Bar special has over 7 million views.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.