Calendar of Events

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

This annual run/walk timed event raises funds to support Open Arms Pregnancy Center. Open Arms supports women facing unplanned pregnancies by providing free, confidential ultrasounds and maternity supplies. Mothers receive monthly diapers, clothing and other items once their babies are born up to the child’s 18th month.
The 5k and Fun Run will be held at Bill Moore Community Park, 85 Howard Gap Road in Fletcher, NC at 8:30AM.
Runners should register now (by May 9) at https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Fletcher/Run4for5k for early bird pricing and to be guaranteed a T-shirt.
Businesses/Individuals interested in being a race sponsor can contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone at 828.676.4510.

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.

This popular shutterbug weekend includes presentations from top nature photographers, hands-on field courses, a friendly contest and the rare opportunity to photograph the mountain’s spectacular scenery before and after regular business hours.

This revamped version of the popular weekend will include changes to better welcome all levels of photographers, making it more fun and engaging for all – while better connecting participants with the wonders and unique ecology of Grandfather Mountain. This year, more than ever, we hope to not only help participants learn about photography, but to also inspire them to preserve the natural world. Activities begin Friday evening and conclude Sunday midday.

June 6, 2025 @8:00 am – June 8, 2025 @3:00 pm

Join us to celebrate the birthdays of our resident animals with games, contests, crafts and surprises. The park’s wildlife habitat staff hosts a fun-filled afternoon for guests, as well as programs to celebrate the park’s furry and feathered inhabitants. Millie the Bear, the mountain’s mascot, will make special appearances throughout the day. Events begin at 11 a.m. and continue until 3:30 p.m. Join for one activity or all. Included with admission.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The WNC Nature Center continues roaring back to life with one of Asheville’s favorite summer traditions — Brews and Bears!

Starting Friday, May 9, from 5:30–8:00 p.m., this after-hours event invites guests to enjoy the Nature Center in the cool evening hours with live music, local food, and plenty of local brews and beverages.

The Brews and Bears Summer Series will take place on the second Friday of each month through August, and each event features a unique lineup of food trucks, musicians, and animal education programs—so no two nights are the same!

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

$20 in Advance, $25 at the door

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

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

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

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

Sliding Scale $10-$20

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bring your friends and remember to carpool!

This is a free event.

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

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.

Sonic Spheres
The Sphere Of Mystery

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

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

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

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

Be the first to experience ✩ The Sphere of Mystery ✩

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

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

Reserve your place HERE or RSVP through Meetup.

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

Quantum Energy Healing: Group Session & Journey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Group Heart & Sound Magic

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

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

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

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

Suggested Donation scale between $22-$44

Sacred Qi Gong with Genie

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sacred Qi Gong with Genie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The WNC Nature Center continues roaring back to life with one of Asheville’s favorite summer traditions — Brews and Bears!

Starting Friday, May 9, from 5:30–8:00 p.m., this after-hours event invites guests to enjoy the Nature Center in the cool evening hours with live music, local food, and plenty of local brews and beverages.

The Brews and Bears Summer Series will take place on the second Friday of each month through August, and each event features a unique lineup of food trucks, musicians, and animal education programs—so no two nights are the same!

Come join us on a journey of somatic bliss with our Tibetan Singing Bowl Sound Bath with Vivek Chugh, an immersive experience designed to transport you to a realm of deep relaxation and rejuvenation.

Vivek will be facilitating this sound journey using handcrafted singing bowls, each emitting unique vibrations, frequencies and tones which can bring balance and health to the body. The premise is that sound can influence physical, emotional, mental and spiritual state of being.

Allow yourself to be transported to a state of profound calmness as the harmonic frequencies of the singing bowls washes over you. No prior experience is necessary.

Whether you’re a seasoned mindfulness enthusiast or someone seeking a novel path to relaxation or seeking stress relief, our Tibetan Singing Bowl Sound Bath is a therapeutic journey where ancient wisdom meets modern well-being.

The energy exchange options for this event are $20-40. Energy exchange can be made at the event via cash, Gpay, or Venmo or ahead of time here: https://somaticsounds.net/energy/

Please bring any comfort items you may desire: blankets, pillows, bolsters, eye mask, etc. We do not yet have enough community items for everyone.

The event is from 6:00 – 7:00 PM.

Shift into your parasympathetic nervous system with a healing Sound Bath! This shift helps the body lower your heart rate, relax muscles, and initiate healing processes.

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

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

The Sound Bath will take place upstairs in the Education Building. Choose your space starting at 12:45 PM, doors close promptly at 1:00 PM.

This service is being offered on a sliding scale of $10-20.

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

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

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

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

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

Bring your friends and remember to carpool!

This is a free event.

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

What to Bring:

A journal and pen
Please bring any comfort items you may desire: blankets, pillows, bolsters, eye mask, etc. We do not yet have enough community items for everyone.
An altar item – this can be a photo, crystal, something you found in nature that you desire to help hold the imprint of our time together.
Your sober self. This is a sober event, meaning no substances other than your own sacred being.
Curiosity and an open mind and heart
Our Circle Agreements

🌑 All are welcome. There is no competition or hierarchy here—no one is above or below another. We meet as equals, honoring the wisdom within each of us.

🌑 Self-awareness over judgment. If judgment arises (because we are human), see it as an opportunity for self-reflection. We are all mirrors for one another.

🌑 Confidentiality and respect. This is a safe and sacred space. What is shared here stays here.

🌑 Honor your needs. Move as you need to—get water, use the restroom, grab a tissue. You are a sovereign being and can care for yourself as needed.

🌑 Emotions are sacred. There is no need to hold back, apologize, or adjust your emotions to fit others. Your experience is your own medicine.

🌑 Witness, don’t fix. We honor each other as whole beings. We hold space for one another without assuming needs or rushing to console. Simply witnessing is enough.

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.