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.

Saturday, May 14, 2022
ADULT CONTEMPORARY DANCE CLASS WITH STEWART/OWEN DANCE
May 14 @ 9:30 am – 10:45 am
Henry LaBrun Studio

Led by Stewart/Owen Dance Co-Directors, Vanessa Owen and Gavin Stewart, this open level adult contemporary dance class gradually awakens the body and senses through guided improvisation and a follow along warm-up, followed by foundational across-the-floor exercises and center-work combinations. All experience levels welcome!

In person: $10, pay at the door

Online: $7 suggested donation, contact [email protected] for class link and details.

About Stewart/Owen Dance: Gavin Stewart and Vanessa Owen, a husband and wife duo, are the co-directors of Western North Carolina based Stewart/Owen Dance. Their choreography has been presented by festivals and companies across the U.S., and their careers have most notably taken them around the globe on fifteen U.S. State Department tours to teach, perform and choreograph contemporary dance with Washington D.C. based Company E. In 2017 they made North Carolina their home base where they work towards building a sustainable community for professional dance artists to set roots. They have choreographed music videos for artists such as Moses Sumney, Sylvan Esso and Ben Phantom. Gavin and Vanessa won the Audience Choice Award at the NYC Dance Gallery Festival 2018, were commissioned as Dance Gallery 2019 Level UP Artists, are recipients of a McDowell Regional Artist Project Grant, a North Carolina Artist Support Grant and were voted “Artists Who Most Pushed the Boundaries with the Human Body” by 2020 Asheville Fringe Arts Festival. Since the pandemic, they have focused on producing COVID-conscious dance experiences for live audiences, including drive-up performances and a guided walk-along dance exhibit presented in residence with Asheville’s beloved Wortham Center for the Performing Arts.

STEWART/OWEN OPEN COMPANY CLASS
May 14 @ 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Henry LaBrun Studio

Led by Stewart/Owen Co-Directors, Vanessa Owen and Gavin Stewart, this class begins with full body conditioning followed by a series of technical modern exercises, and culminates in either phrase creation or Stewart/Owen repertory. Dancers are encouraged to modify for their own bodies and spaces! We recommend this class to experienced dancers who are looking for a fast-paced contemporary class that pushes their physical and mental boundaries.

In person: $10, pay at the door

Online: $7 suggested donation, contact [email protected] for class link and details.

About Stewart/Owen Dance: Gavin Stewart and Vanessa Owen, a husband and wife duo, are the co-directors of Western North Carolina based Stewart/Owen Dance. Their choreography has been presented by festivals and companies across the U.S., and their careers have most notably taken them around the globe on fifteen U.S. State Department tours to teach, perform and choreograph contemporary dance with Washington D.C. based Company E. In 2017 they made North Carolina their home base where they work towards building a sustainable community for professional dance artists to set roots.They have choreographed music videos for artists such as Moses Sumney, Sylvan Esso and Ben Phantom. Gavin and Vanessa won the Audience Choice Award at the NYC Dance Gallery Festival 2018, were commissioned as Dance Gallery 2019 Level UP Artists, are recipients of a McDowell Regional Artist Project Grant, a North Carolina Artist Support Grant and were voted “Artists Who Most Pushed the Boundaries with the Human Body” by 2020 Asheville Fringe Arts Festival. Since the pandemic, they have focused on producing COVID-conscious dance experiences for live audiences, including drive-up performances and a guided walk-along dance exhibit presented in residence with Asheville’s beloved Wortham Center for the Performing Arts.

ACADEMY AT TERPSICORPS The Velveteen Rabbit
May 14 @ 2:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

The Academy at Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance presents their Spring Showcase on May 14th at 2 pm and 7 pm. This showcase will feature students from all levels of the Academy. Under the direction of Cynthia Ridler, Academy Principal Director, the original ballet “The Velveteen Rabbit” will headline this showcase. This ballet features choreography by many members of the Academy faculty. Also, Academy dancers will appear in original contemporary works choreographed by faculty member Jamie Brege and Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance Artistic Director Heather Maloy.

Southern Dance Academy Showcase
May 14 @ 5:00 pm
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

Southern Dance Academy Showcase 2022 | Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

ACADEMY AT TERPSICORPS The Velveteen Rabbit
May 14 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

The Academy at Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance presents their Spring Showcase on May 14th at 2 pm and 7 pm. This showcase will feature students from all levels of the Academy. Under the direction of Cynthia Ridler, Academy Principal Director, the original ballet “The Velveteen Rabbit” will headline this showcase. This ballet features choreography by many members of the Academy faculty. Also, Academy dancers will appear in original contemporary works choreographed by faculty member Jamie Brege and Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance Artistic Director Heather Maloy.

Sunday, May 15, 2022
Spring Ornithology Hike
May 15 @ 8:00 am – 11:00 am
SAHC Community Farm
Birders looking for birds on farm pasture in late winter

Enjoy an ornithology-focused walk on the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy Community Farm. Led by Simon Thompson, participants will hike the farm’s Discovery Trail searching to identify bird species. Simon is the owner and operator of Ventures Birding and has led birding trips all over the world. We are extremely excited to have him lead us on the hike. Diverse habitats across the farm lead to a great variety of bird species present.

Thursday, May 19, 2022
Sunset Yoga Hike in Asheville
May 19 all-day
Detailed Directions Shared After Booking

Imagine moving through your sun salutation on a mountaintop as the sky glows all around you (or stay in savasana for the full hour! No one here will judge you!) Marvel at nature’s light show, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and revel in the expansiveness of wide open spaces. This is our favorite version of our classic Yoga Hike here in Asheville and is offered in season (typically May – October) with start times planned approximately 2hrs prior to sunset. This mountaintop is on all of the “best places to view the sunset in Asheville” lists and we can’t wait to share it with you!

Want a more exclusive experience? Reserve a private Sunset Yoga Hike any day of the week with advanced notice.

White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
May 19 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee Company, Lazy Otter Outfitters, Murphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

SAHC Community Farm Hike
May 19 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
SAHC Community Farm
view of farm pasture and flowers in field

Visit our beautiful Community Farm to hike along the Discovery Trail and see all the terrific projects in the works! SAHC’s Community Farm is a 140-acre educational and working farm just outside Asheville. The farm is a continually evolving home for conservation projects and agricultural production. It features a stream restoration project, shortleaf pine reforestation project, farm incubator program, education center,  and more — there is always something new to see!

Participants will hike The Discovery Trail in a 2-mile loop, allowing us to view all of the amazing farm projects before returning to the education center for an outdoor lunch overlooking the entire farm and surrounding mountains. Cost $10.

Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic & Feature Comedy at Asheville Pizza
May 19 @ 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co

Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic and Feature Comedy at Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co Game Room Comedy Show (must be 18+)

Cocktails, taps & menu available while you laugh the night away to some of the areas best Standup Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! Comedy Open Mic plus at least Three Professional featured performers.

Open mic comics signup at door get 3-5m. [Free entry for performing comics, free pizza at comics table]

For more info contact Michele at [email protected]

5/19 Hosted by Hilliary Begley of Netflix & Amazon Prime

Comedy Open Mic Featuring
Ryan Cox, Cameron Davis, Jess Cooley & Larry Griffin

Friday, May 20, 2022
White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
May 20 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee Company, Lazy Otter Outfitters, Murphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

Dynamic Together Silent Disco
May 20 @ 5:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Rabbit Rabbit

Grab your friends, grab your family and join Odyssey Community School for an evening of music, dance and joy! Ticket includes food, 1 drink and headphones for our Silent Disco fundraiser event!

Asheville Ballet SPRING INTO DANCE: A MOVEMENT BOUQUET
May 20 @ 7:30 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

A spectacular professional production by Western North Carolina’s own Ballet Company, directed by Ann Dunn. This event features exciting new work by resident choreographers, including Lyle Laney, Fleming Lomax, Megan Jones Medford, Tricia Renshaw, Sandi Weinberg, and Stephanie Wolfe.
Image by Rose Pillmore.

Saturday, May 21, 2022
White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
May 21 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee Company, Lazy Otter Outfitters, Murphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

ADULT CONTEMPORARY DANCE CLASS WITH STEWART/OWEN DANCE
May 21 @ 9:30 am – 10:45 am
Henry LaBrun Studio

Led by Stewart/Owen Dance Co-Directors, Vanessa Owen and Gavin Stewart, this open level adult contemporary dance class gradually awakens the body and senses through guided improvisation and a follow along warm-up, followed by foundational across-the-floor exercises and center-work combinations. All experience levels welcome!

In person: $10, pay at the door

Online: $7 suggested donation, contact [email protected] for class link and details.

About Stewart/Owen Dance: Gavin Stewart and Vanessa Owen, a husband and wife duo, are the co-directors of Western North Carolina based Stewart/Owen Dance. Their choreography has been presented by festivals and companies across the U.S., and their careers have most notably taken them around the globe on fifteen U.S. State Department tours to teach, perform and choreograph contemporary dance with Washington D.C. based Company E. In 2017 they made North Carolina their home base where they work towards building a sustainable community for professional dance artists to set roots. They have choreographed music videos for artists such as Moses Sumney, Sylvan Esso and Ben Phantom. Gavin and Vanessa won the Audience Choice Award at the NYC Dance Gallery Festival 2018, were commissioned as Dance Gallery 2019 Level UP Artists, are recipients of a McDowell Regional Artist Project Grant, a North Carolina Artist Support Grant and were voted “Artists Who Most Pushed the Boundaries with the Human Body” by 2020 Asheville Fringe Arts Festival. Since the pandemic, they have focused on producing COVID-conscious dance experiences for live audiences, including drive-up performances and a guided walk-along dance exhibit presented in residence with Asheville’s beloved Wortham Center for the Performing Arts.

STEWART/OWEN OPEN COMPANY CLASS
May 21 @ 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Henry LaBrun Studio

Led by Stewart/Owen Co-Directors, Vanessa Owen and Gavin Stewart, this class begins with full body conditioning followed by a series of technical modern exercises, and culminates in either phrase creation or Stewart/Owen repertory. Dancers are encouraged to modify for their own bodies and spaces! We recommend this class to experienced dancers who are looking for a fast-paced contemporary class that pushes their physical and mental boundaries.

In person: $10, pay at the door

Online: $7 suggested donation, contact [email protected] for class link and details.

About Stewart/Owen Dance: Gavin Stewart and Vanessa Owen, a husband and wife duo, are the co-directors of Western North Carolina based Stewart/Owen Dance. Their choreography has been presented by festivals and companies across the U.S., and their careers have most notably taken them around the globe on fifteen U.S. State Department tours to teach, perform and choreograph contemporary dance with Washington D.C. based Company E. In 2017 they made North Carolina their home base where they work towards building a sustainable community for professional dance artists to set roots.They have choreographed music videos for artists such as Moses Sumney, Sylvan Esso and Ben Phantom. Gavin and Vanessa won the Audience Choice Award at the NYC Dance Gallery Festival 2018, were commissioned as Dance Gallery 2019 Level UP Artists, are recipients of a McDowell Regional Artist Project Grant, a North Carolina Artist Support Grant and were voted “Artists Who Most Pushed the Boundaries with the Human Body” by 2020 Asheville Fringe Arts Festival. Since the pandemic, they have focused on producing COVID-conscious dance experiences for live audiences, including drive-up performances and a guided walk-along dance exhibit presented in residence with Asheville’s beloved Wortham Center for the Performing Arts.

ASHEVILLE ACADEMY OF BALLET AND CONTEMPORARY DANCE 2022 STUDENT SHOWCASE
May 21 @ 3:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Annual student showcase of Asheville Academy of Ballet and Contemporary Dance, official school of the Asheville Ballet.

Sunset Yoga Hike in Asheville
May 21 @ 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Detailed Directions Shared After Booking

Imagine moving through your sun salutation on a mountaintop as the sky glows all around you (or stay in savasana for the full hour! No one here will judge you!) Marvel at nature’s light show, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and revel in the expansiveness of wide open spaces. This is our favorite version of our classic Yoga Hike here in Asheville and is offered in season (typically May – October) with start times planned approximately 2hrs prior to sunset. This mountaintop is on all of the “best places to view the sunset in Asheville” lists and we can’t wait to share it with you!

Want a more exclusive experience? Reserve a private Sunset Yoga Hike any day of the week with advanced notice.

Asheville Ballet SPRING INTO DANCE: A MOVEMENT BOUQUET
May 21 @ 7:30 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

A spectacular professional production by Western North Carolina’s own Ballet Company, directed by Ann Dunn. This event features exciting new work by resident choreographers, including Lyle Laney, Fleming Lomax, Megan Jones Medford, Tricia Renshaw, Sandi Weinberg, and Stephanie Wolfe.
Image by Rose Pillmore.

Thursday, May 26, 2022
White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
May 26 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee Company, Lazy Otter Outfitters, Murphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

City Dance
May 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, May 27, 2022
White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
May 27 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee Company, Lazy Otter Outfitters, Murphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

BALLET CONSERVATORY OF ASHEVILLE PRESENTS A Mid Summer Night’s Dream
May 27 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Ballet Conservatory of Asheville presents “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”,

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, a frolicking ballet based on Shakespeare’s spriteful play, is set by Ballet Conservatory director Angie Lynn, ballet master Nadia Iozzo and Gavin Larsen after Sir Frederick Ashton’s ballet “The Dream.” Felix Mendelssohn’s prolific score showcases it’s celebrated overture and famed “Wedding March.” Tender, fading melodies and playful rambling riffs capture the imagination of youthful romance.

Ballet Conservatory’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” runs May 27-28 at the Wortham Theatre, with performances Friday at 7pm & Saturday at 3pm & 7pm.

Ballet Conservatory’s Helen Coates and Esme Hair alternate the role of Titania alongside Manuel Mata as Oberon. Sarah Adams dances the role of Helena & Sophie Feinblatt as Hermia, with partners Jonah Bell as Demetrius and Eli Simpson as Lysander. Addie Rockoff and Jillian Epstein alternate as the mischievous fairy, Puck, plus Iris Schreiner as Peasblossom.

Ballet Conservatory’s thirteenth Performance Season includes: “Winter Works: Innovations and Variations”, back in March with guest choreography by Nederlands Dans Theater’s Fay Van Baar; “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, May 27-28; and “The Nutcracker”, performing at Western Carolina University and the Wortham Theatre this December 2022. The Ballet Conservatory offers excellent classical training in its comprehensive Pre-professional program and full schedule of children’s open classes in ballet, modern, jazz & tap. This year BCA students were awarded spots to attend prestigious Summer Intensives, including Pacific Northwest Ballet, Boston Ballet, School of American Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre. BCA students have been accepted into ABT’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis school in NYC, North Carolina School of the Arts and the top U.S. universities for ballet: Indian University, Oklahoma University, Butler University, Utah University & Cincinnati University; and one just signed a professional contract with Finnish National Ballet.

Saturday, May 28, 2022
White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
May 28 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee Company, Lazy Otter Outfitters, Murphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

ADULT CONTEMPORARY DANCE CLASS WITH STEWART/OWEN DANCE
May 28 @ 9:30 am – 10:45 am
Henry LaBrun Studio

Led by Stewart/Owen Dance Co-Directors, Vanessa Owen and Gavin Stewart, this open level adult contemporary dance class gradually awakens the body and senses through guided improvisation and a follow along warm-up, followed by foundational across-the-floor exercises and center-work combinations. All experience levels welcome!

In person: $10, pay at the door

Online: $7 suggested donation, contact [email protected] for class link and details.

About Stewart/Owen Dance: Gavin Stewart and Vanessa Owen, a husband and wife duo, are the co-directors of Western North Carolina based Stewart/Owen Dance. Their choreography has been presented by festivals and companies across the U.S., and their careers have most notably taken them around the globe on fifteen U.S. State Department tours to teach, perform and choreograph contemporary dance with Washington D.C. based Company E. In 2017 they made North Carolina their home base where they work towards building a sustainable community for professional dance artists to set roots. They have choreographed music videos for artists such as Moses Sumney, Sylvan Esso and Ben Phantom. Gavin and Vanessa won the Audience Choice Award at the NYC Dance Gallery Festival 2018, were commissioned as Dance Gallery 2019 Level UP Artists, are recipients of a McDowell Regional Artist Project Grant, a North Carolina Artist Support Grant and were voted “Artists Who Most Pushed the Boundaries with the Human Body” by 2020 Asheville Fringe Arts Festival. Since the pandemic, they have focused on producing COVID-conscious dance experiences for live audiences, including drive-up performances and a guided walk-along dance exhibit presented in residence with Asheville’s beloved Wortham Center for the Performing Arts.

STEWART/OWEN OPEN COMPANY CLASS
May 28 @ 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Henry LaBrun Studio

Led by Stewart/Owen Co-Directors, Vanessa Owen and Gavin Stewart, this class begins with full body conditioning followed by a series of technical modern exercises, and culminates in either phrase creation or Stewart/Owen repertory. Dancers are encouraged to modify for their own bodies and spaces! We recommend this class to experienced dancers who are looking for a fast-paced contemporary class that pushes their physical and mental boundaries.

In person: $10, pay at the door

Online: $7 suggested donation, contact [email protected] for class link and details.

About Stewart/Owen Dance: Gavin Stewart and Vanessa Owen, a husband and wife duo, are the co-directors of Western North Carolina based Stewart/Owen Dance. Their choreography has been presented by festivals and companies across the U.S., and their careers have most notably taken them around the globe on fifteen U.S. State Department tours to teach, perform and choreograph contemporary dance with Washington D.C. based Company E. In 2017 they made North Carolina their home base where they work towards building a sustainable community for professional dance artists to set roots.They have choreographed music videos for artists such as Moses Sumney, Sylvan Esso and Ben Phantom. Gavin and Vanessa won the Audience Choice Award at the NYC Dance Gallery Festival 2018, were commissioned as Dance Gallery 2019 Level UP Artists, are recipients of a McDowell Regional Artist Project Grant, a North Carolina Artist Support Grant and were voted “Artists Who Most Pushed the Boundaries with the Human Body” by 2020 Asheville Fringe Arts Festival. Since the pandemic, they have focused on producing COVID-conscious dance experiences for live audiences, including drive-up performances and a guided walk-along dance exhibit presented in residence with Asheville’s beloved Wortham Center for the Performing Arts.

BALLET CONSERVATORY OF ASHEVILLE PRESENTS A Mid Summer Night’s Dream
May 28 @ 3:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Ballet Conservatory of Asheville presents “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”,

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, a frolicking ballet based on Shakespeare’s spriteful play, is set by Ballet Conservatory director Angie Lynn, ballet master Nadia Iozzo and Gavin Larsen after Sir Frederick Ashton’s ballet “The Dream.” Felix Mendelssohn’s prolific score showcases it’s celebrated overture and famed “Wedding March.” Tender, fading melodies and playful rambling riffs capture the imagination of youthful romance.

Ballet Conservatory’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” runs May 27-28 at the Wortham Theatre, with performances Friday at 7pm & Saturday at 3pm & 7pm.

Ballet Conservatory’s Helen Coates and Esme Hair alternate the role of Titania alongside Manuel Mata as Oberon. Sarah Adams dances the role of Helena & Sophie Feinblatt as Hermia, with partners Jonah Bell as Demetrius and Eli Simpson as Lysander. Addie Rockoff and Jillian Epstein alternate as the mischievous fairy, Puck, plus Iris Schreiner as Peasblossom.

Ballet Conservatory’s thirteenth Performance Season includes: “Winter Works: Innovations and Variations”, back in March with guest choreography by Nederlands Dans Theater’s Fay Van Baar; “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, May 27-28; and “The Nutcracker”, performing at Western Carolina University and the Wortham Theatre this December 2022. The Ballet Conservatory offers excellent classical training in its comprehensive Pre-professional program and full schedule of children’s open classes in ballet, modern, jazz & tap. This year BCA students were awarded spots to attend prestigious Summer Intensives, including Pacific Northwest Ballet, Boston Ballet, School of American Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre. BCA students have been accepted into ABT’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis school in NYC, North Carolina School of the Arts and the top U.S. universities for ballet: Indian University, Oklahoma University, Butler University, Utah University & Cincinnati University; and one just signed a professional contract with Finnish National Ballet.

Sunset Yoga Hike in Asheville
May 28 @ 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Detailed Directions Shared After Booking

Imagine moving through your sun salutation on a mountaintop as the sky glows all around you (or stay in savasana for the full hour! No one here will judge you!) Marvel at nature’s light show, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and revel in the expansiveness of wide open spaces. This is our favorite version of our classic Yoga Hike here in Asheville and is offered in season (typically May – October) with start times planned approximately 2hrs prior to sunset. This mountaintop is on all of the “best places to view the sunset in Asheville” lists and we can’t wait to share it with you!

Want a more exclusive experience? Reserve a private Sunset Yoga Hike any day of the week with advanced notice.

BALLET CONSERVATORY OF ASHEVILLE PRESENTS A Mid Summer Night’s Dream
May 28 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Ballet Conservatory of Asheville presents “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”,

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, a frolicking ballet based on Shakespeare’s spriteful play, is set by Ballet Conservatory director Angie Lynn, ballet master Nadia Iozzo and Gavin Larsen after Sir Frederick Ashton’s ballet “The Dream.” Felix Mendelssohn’s prolific score showcases it’s celebrated overture and famed “Wedding March.” Tender, fading melodies and playful rambling riffs capture the imagination of youthful romance.

Ballet Conservatory’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” runs May 27-28 at the Wortham Theatre, with performances Friday at 7pm & Saturday at 3pm & 7pm.

Ballet Conservatory’s Helen Coates and Esme Hair alternate the role of Titania alongside Manuel Mata as Oberon. Sarah Adams dances the role of Helena & Sophie Feinblatt as Hermia, with partners Jonah Bell as Demetrius and Eli Simpson as Lysander. Addie Rockoff and Jillian Epstein alternate as the mischievous fairy, Puck, plus Iris Schreiner as Peasblossom.

Ballet Conservatory’s thirteenth Performance Season includes: “Winter Works: Innovations and Variations”, back in March with guest choreography by Nederlands Dans Theater’s Fay Van Baar; “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, May 27-28; and “The Nutcracker”, performing at Western Carolina University and the Wortham Theatre this December 2022. The Ballet Conservatory offers excellent classical training in its comprehensive Pre-professional program and full schedule of children’s open classes in ballet, modern, jazz & tap. This year BCA students were awarded spots to attend prestigious Summer Intensives, including Pacific Northwest Ballet, Boston Ballet, School of American Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre. BCA students have been accepted into ABT’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis school in NYC, North Carolina School of the Arts and the top U.S. universities for ballet: Indian University, Oklahoma University, Butler University, Utah University & Cincinnati University; and one just signed a professional contract with Finnish National Ballet.

Sunday, May 29, 2022
Sunset Yoga Hike in Asheville
May 29 @ 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Detailed Directions Shared After Booking

Imagine moving through your sun salutation on a mountaintop as the sky glows all around you (or stay in savasana for the full hour! No one here will judge you!) Marvel at nature’s light show, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and revel in the expansiveness of wide open spaces. This is our favorite version of our classic Yoga Hike here in Asheville and is offered in season (typically May – October) with start times planned approximately 2hrs prior to sunset. This mountaintop is on all of the “best places to view the sunset in Asheville” lists and we can’t wait to share it with you!

Want a more exclusive experience? Reserve a private Sunset Yoga Hike any day of the week with advanced notice.