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, September 9, 2023
Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 9 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Asheville Outlets Hosts Wellness Expo with Yoga Nut to Benefit Babies Need Bottoms
Sep 9 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Asheville Outlets

Asheville Outlets will team with Yoga Nut to host a Wellness Expo on Saturday, September 9, 2023, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. with booth proceeds benefitting Babies Need Bottoms. The complimentary Expo will provide attendees with a wide array of fitness, health, and wellness tools, including a complimentary yoga session and a movement workshop focusing on spine and hip mobility for pain prevention. Additional activities will include an antigravity chair, mini acupuncture sessions, health & wellness coaching sessions, brain assessments, information on Medicaid and Medicare, blood pressure screenings, and more. For more information on the Wellness Expo, visit ShopAshevilleOutlets.com.

Sunday, September 10, 2023
Skinny Beats Sound Healing
Sep 10 @ 2:00 pm – 3:15 pm
The Restoration Hotel Asheville

Attune your body to new frequencies as a euphony of sounds and music slow your brainwaves to a restorative state, leaving you feeling restored and centered. This one hour sound healing class is $35 and hosted by Skinny Beat’s Billy Zanski.

Monday, September 11, 2023
Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 11 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Volunteer for the Annual Pedestrian/Bike Count
Sep 12 all-day
TBA
family of four riding bikes on the greenway

The City’s Transportation Department is gearing up for its Annual Pedestrian/Bike Count to take place again this year. Each year, the counts are held the week after Labor Day. Counts are taken on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday. This year, the dates are Sept 12th – 14th & 16th. The hours are on weekday mornings from 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. or afternoons from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. On Saturday, counts are from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Data collected helps staff identify bike/pedestrian trends and also helps in implementation of the recently adopted GAP Plan.

Volunteers are the backbone of this effort. No special skills or previous experience is required to volunteer.

Community members can sign up to volunteer a couple of different ways:

We will do our best to assign volunteers based on their location preferences but ask that folks have some flexibility. Community members are encouraged to sign up by early September.

All volunteers that complete their shift and submit the data they collected will be entered into a random drawing to receive a free annual membership from The Flying Bike (Thank you to The Flying Bike!).

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 12 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Wednesday, September 13, 2023
Volunteer for the Annual Pedestrian/Bike Count
Sep 13 all-day
TBA
family of four riding bikes on the greenway

The City’s Transportation Department is gearing up for its Annual Pedestrian/Bike Count to take place again this year. Each year, the counts are held the week after Labor Day. Counts are taken on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday. This year, the dates are Sept 12th – 14th & 16th. The hours are on weekday mornings from 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. or afternoons from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. On Saturday, counts are from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Data collected helps staff identify bike/pedestrian trends and also helps in implementation of the recently adopted GAP Plan.

Volunteers are the backbone of this effort. No special skills or previous experience is required to volunteer.

Community members can sign up to volunteer a couple of different ways:

We will do our best to assign volunteers based on their location preferences but ask that folks have some flexibility. Community members are encouraged to sign up by early September.

All volunteers that complete their shift and submit the data they collected will be entered into a random drawing to receive a free annual membership from The Flying Bike (Thank you to The Flying Bike!).

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 13 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Working Wednesdays: Invasive Removal
Sep 13 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park

Meet a Ranger at the Rumbling Bald Climbing access as we hack trough some invasive plants that threaten the biodiversity of the gorge. Tools provided. Wear sturdy boots, bring gloves, and water. No registration required.

Note: This event takes place at the Rumbling Bald park access.

Burial Volunteer Day + Lunch and Learn
Sep 13 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Burial Brewing South Slope

 

Join RiverLink in partnership with Burial Brewing for a volunteer opportunity from 10am-12pm next Wednesday, September 13. Volunteers will receive a $20 gift card to Burial and are invited to join us at Burial’s South Slope location from 12pm-1pm for a “Lunch & Learn” to learn more about RiverLink and the work we do.

To sign up, please email [email protected] with your contact info and the subject line “RiverLink Volunteer.”

Intro to Medicinal Plants with Rachel Meriwether
Sep 13 @ 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Bullington Gardens, Inc.

Have you ever wondered whether the plants around you have medicinal properties? If so, then this class is for you! We will be learning about a variety of plants, both native and non-native, that can be used to relieve a number of everyday health concerns. We will also cover the basics of salve and tincture making! You only need to bring yourself, your curiosity, and something to write on!The information presented in this class is intended for educational purposes and should not be considered an endorsement of or recommendation for any medical treatment. Please consult your health care provider before pursuing any herbal or homemade treatments.

Thursday, September 14, 2023
Volunteer for the Annual Pedestrian/Bike Count
Sep 14 all-day
TBA
family of four riding bikes on the greenway

The City’s Transportation Department is gearing up for its Annual Pedestrian/Bike Count to take place again this year. Each year, the counts are held the week after Labor Day. Counts are taken on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday. This year, the dates are Sept 12th – 14th & 16th. The hours are on weekday mornings from 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. or afternoons from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. On Saturday, counts are from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Data collected helps staff identify bike/pedestrian trends and also helps in implementation of the recently adopted GAP Plan.

Volunteers are the backbone of this effort. No special skills or previous experience is required to volunteer.

Community members can sign up to volunteer a couple of different ways:

We will do our best to assign volunteers based on their location preferences but ask that folks have some flexibility. Community members are encouraged to sign up by early September.

All volunteers that complete their shift and submit the data they collected will be entered into a random drawing to receive a free annual membership from The Flying Bike (Thank you to The Flying Bike!).

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 14 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Friday, September 15, 2023
Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 15 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Saturday, September 16, 2023
Volunteer for the Annual Pedestrian/Bike Count
Sep 16 all-day
TBA
family of four riding bikes on the greenway

The City’s Transportation Department is gearing up for its Annual Pedestrian/Bike Count to take place again this year. Each year, the counts are held the week after Labor Day. Counts are taken on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday. This year, the dates are Sept 12th – 14th & 16th. The hours are on weekday mornings from 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. or afternoons from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. On Saturday, counts are from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Data collected helps staff identify bike/pedestrian trends and also helps in implementation of the recently adopted GAP Plan.

Volunteers are the backbone of this effort. No special skills or previous experience is required to volunteer.

Community members can sign up to volunteer a couple of different ways:

We will do our best to assign volunteers based on their location preferences but ask that folks have some flexibility. Community members are encouraged to sign up by early September.

All volunteers that complete their shift and submit the data they collected will be entered into a random drawing to receive a free annual membership from The Flying Bike (Thank you to The Flying Bike!).

Build Crew Work Days Hendersonville Theatre
Sep 16 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

We’re putting our build crew back together and we’d love to have you join us. Every 2 weeks, we’ll meet at 9 am for hands-on set construction! Whether your talents are building, painting, or you just want to learn, come out and join us every other Saturday for some creative fun. Tools and work gloves are helpful but not required

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 16 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Sunday, September 17, 2023
Move and Fitness Health Workout Class
Sep 17 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
The Restoration Asheville

Discover your strongest self with a 45-minute full-body sculpt class featuring low impact movements to high impact music that’ll get you in the groove.

Monday, September 18, 2023
Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 18 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Tuesday, September 19, 2023
Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 19 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Tree Nursery Workdays
Sep 19 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sand Hill Tree Nursery

Join us for workdays in the Sand Hill native tree nursery. Tasks vary and often include repotting, weeding, mulching, and other special projects to improve infrastructure and function.

First – third Tuesdays of the month
10am – 12pm

Need to know

Please come dressed in work clothes with close toed shoes. Bring water and sun protection. All other gear and supplies are provided.

Fall Phonebank Launch
Sep 19 @ 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Buncombe Democrats HQ

Whether you are an experienced, reluctant or new & curious phone banker, this brief training will prepare you for making important calls to people in our most rural precincts who tend to vote for Democrats, but not often enough! Bring your fully charged phone and laptop so you’ll be all set to make calls.

Snacks, drinks, and lots of camaraderie on hand!

All Buncombe Democrats who are willing to make phone calls should attend.

Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 20 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Working Wednesdays: Trail Work
Sep 20 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park
Cost: Free

Meet a Ranger at the Eagle Rock Access as we move some dirt on the Weed Patch Mountain Trial. Tools provided. Wear sturdy boots, bring gloves, and water. No registration required.

Note: This event takes place in the Eagle Rock park access.

Thursday, September 21, 2023
Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 21 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Friday, September 22, 2023
Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 22 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

Saturday, September 23, 2023
TreeTops 8.5 Mile, 5k and 1 Mile Trail Races
Sep 23 @ 8:00 am – 10:15 am
DuPont State Forest - Guion Farm

Join us Saturday, September 23, 2023 for the Inaugural TreeTops Trail Races in DuPont State Recreational Forest near Brevard, North Carolina!

The races offer a unique opportunity to explore the spectacular 10,000 acres of rolling hills and towering trees that make up this beautiful forest. Run or walk in the one mile or 5k run/walk events, or take on the 8.5 mile challenging trail race – but beware! With nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain it’s no walk in the park!

Celebrate your journey through nature with a super unique succulent plant for all participants and a finisher medal for those who tackle the 8.5 mile course. Join us at the Dupont Forest Festival afterwards from 10am – 3pm to visit with vendors, hike, yoga, bike, hunt waterfalls and learn outdoor recreation tips to last you a lifetime. Admission to the festival is FREE!

The TreeTops Trail Races are not just any ordinary event – they’re an exclusive experience only available within Dupont State Forest! So don’t miss out on this tree-mendous event and join us for an unforgettable journey through DuPont State Forest – roots down, branches up!

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers
Sep 23 @ 9:00 am
 Verner Center for Early

Verner Center for Early Learning needs volunteers!

For over 20 years, Verner Center is a local nonprofit in Asheville that primarily serves children ages 0-5 years who are living in high-risk vulnerable situations. They have a variety of needs – ranging from holding babies, helping with clerical duties, keeping their library tidy and up to date with books donated, teaching the children in the garden they have planted, general upkeep and maintenance of the garden, and reading with the children.

They have two locations – one in Swannanoa and one in West Asheville.

36th Annual WNC Big Sweep
Sep 23 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Zen Tubing

Join us for the 36th annual WNC Big Sweep! During Big Sweep, volunteers across North Carolina are taking action by cleaning litter on their streets or in their waterways. For this event, we will be in the river collecting trash!

We rely on financial support from our community to offer public programs. You can reserve your spot with a donation of any amount starting at $1 — if cost is a barrier to your participation, please call us at (828) 254-1776, and we will register you. Your gift today helps us continue keeping our environment clean and fighting the disproportionate impacts of climate change. If you can’t attend but would still like to make a gift, please visit ashevillegreenworks.org/donate.

Need to know

For this event, we will be IN THE RIVER! Please wear swim gear, quick dry shorts, and tops. River sandals, tevas, chacos, water socks, and old sneakers are all great. Please, no bare feet, flops, or slides. Ages 13+ with a parent or guardian. Please bring along a towel for the ride home.

Our friends at Zen Tubing have offered to shuttle us to our put-in location (220 Amboy Rd, Asheville, NC 28806). Then we will float down the French Broad and make our way back to Zen Tubing, where we will have our afterparty celebration!

We will let everyone know the day before if we need to cancel the trip due to changing river conditions or thunderstorms.

We look forward to getting in the water with you.

WNC Big Sweep Cleanup
Sep 23 @ 12:00 pm
Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Center

This year, RiverLink will be leading a cleanup of Nasty Branch, a small urban stream that enters the French Broad in the River Arts District. We will meet at 12pm at the Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Center at 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801.

We will be in the water for this event and we have a limited amount of waders participants may use. We recommend wearing tall, waterproof boots if available, but if not, it will also be an option to walk the banks of the stream if you would prefer not to get wet. The stream is fairly small, but could potentially have deeper pools.

We will end the cleanup by 2:30pm and invite you all to join us, and the other organizations and volunteers involved in Big Sweep, for the after party! This will be from 3-5pm at Zen Tubing’s RAD location at 608 Riverside Dr., Asheville, NC 28801. 

RiverLink will provide all necessary tools and equipment. Closed-toed shoes are required. We also recommend everyone bring a water bottle.