Calendar of Events

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.

May 2024 May 2024
Collapse All Expand All
Post Your Event
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Young Professionals of Henderson County Social
May 8 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
The Buzz

Elevate & Connect

Gear up for our monthly socials, where networking takes center stage. Join other Young Professionals under 40, for connections, exchange of ideas, and occasional guest speakers. Enjoy a complimentary beverage on us, as you mingle in style. Bring your energy, business cards and elevate your professional circle!

Read more
Categories: Business & Networking Business and Networking Community
Native Plants for the Garden Workshop
May 8 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Dr. John Wilson Community Garden

Native Plants for the Garden Workshop

Tickets: Sliding scale $0 to $40 (cash, check, or card at event) *Please pay what feels most appropriate for your financial situation.

Join them to learn about the benefits of native plants for us, our gardens, and the ecosystems we call home.

Adam Bigelow, avid organic gardener, will lead us as we immerse ourselves in the diversity of native plants. We will discuss how natives work to attract beneficial insects, beautify vegetable and flower gardens, and provide nutrition to the dinner plate.

Read more
Categories: Community Garden Garden Events
Crafting with Cricut
May 8 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Stephens-Lee Community Center

Make a new craft each month using your Cricut!
$20 per session, pay instructor at each class
For more information, call 828-350-2058 or email [email protected]

Cricut Kickstart Workshop
Session A: January 10, advance registration at AVLREC.com required by January 3
Session B: April 10, advance registration at AVLREC.com required by April 3
Get your feet wet in the world of all things Cricut as we chat about different machines and their best uses, and tackle the basics of the software, with lots of time for questions. You’ll create your own vinyl design to transfer on to a provided coffee mug.

Valentine’s Day Cards
February 7, advance registration at AVLREC.com required by January 31
Learn how to use your Cricut to make personalized cards. Even if you’re new, you’ll leave with an awesome card in hand.

Easter Banners
March 6, advance registration at AVLREC.com required by February 28
Dive into crafting a cute seasonal banner using the trusty Cricut, twine, and good ol’ clothing pins. We’ll cut out sweet egg shapes and string them up with twine, giving you the perfect excuse to showcase your handmade charm.

Crafting in Progress Sign
May 8, advance registration at AVLREC.com required by May 1
Craft a personalized sign proudly declaring that you’re “Crafting in Progress!” A cute loading bar adds a touch of whimsy as a fun nod to the crafting journey.

Read more
Categories: Art & Craft Parks & Recreation
Strange Visitors on Brown Mountain with Arcane Carolinas
May 8 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Black Mountain Library

Arcane Carolinas discusses the myths, legends, forgotten lore, and hidden history of the Carolinas, from Appalachia to the Atlantic.
Co-host Michael G. Williams is a novelist, amateur folklorist, and Appalachian Studies student.
He grew up just outside Asheville and now lives in Durham, NC.

Free. Sponsored by the Friends of the Black Mountain Library

Read more
Categories: Community Education Family Fun
Dogwood with Emma Garau / John Dikeman Trio
May 8 @ 7:00 pm
Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center

Dogwood

Dogwood is an evolving rendition of Garau’s solo project; reimagined as a live, improvised performance. Built around an exploration of rhythmic and tonal textures on drum set, Dogwood combines elements of soundscape, free jazz, and electronic music into a performance that oscillates between deceptively delicate and unapologetically dissonant.

Emma Garau is a drummer and composer based in Asheville, NC. She graduated with a BFA in jazz and contemporary music from UNC Asheville in 2022 while independently studying with Dave King of The Bad Plus, and touring extensively with Fortezza- which she co-founded in 2016. Emma currently tours and records with art punk duo, ¿WATCHES?, Powder Horns, and as a solo artist.

John Dikeman Trio

John Dikeman is an American saxophonist currently residing in Amsterdam. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of sources, his playing runs the gamut of improvised music and technique, ranging from reductionist extended technique based improvisation to full throttle free jazz. The underlying characteristic of his music is an unnerving commitment, a total abandonment to sound.

Read more
Categories: Music
Karaoke Night
May 8 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Hickory Tavern

Karaoke Night at Hickory Tavern

Read more
Categories: Food & Drink Music
PRIMUS
May 8 @ 7:00 pm
Rabbit Rabbit

Gates open at 5:30pm
All Ages – not recommended for children under 4
RAIN OR SHINE
CLEAR BAGS ONLY

 

 

Read more
Categories: Music
MRS. DOUBTFIRE
May 8 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Concert Hall

Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Greenville! Rob McClure will reprise his Tony-nominated Broadway performance on tour alongside co-star (and real wife!) Maggie Lakis in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film and directed by four-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Zaks, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.

Official Website

Read more
Categories: Music Theatre
The Book of Mormon
May 8 @ 7:30 pm
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

The New York Times calls it “the best musical of this century.” The Washington Post says, “It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.” And Entertainment Weekly says, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” Jimmy Fallon of The Tonight Show calls it “Genius. Brilliant. Phenomenal.” It’s THE BOOK OF MORMON, the nine-time Tony Award®-winning Best Musical. For more information, visit TheBookOfMormonTour.com

Note: The Book Of Mormon is a COMEDY musical that includes explicit language and adult content and is not recommended to those who may find such content offensive.

Read more
Categories: Music Theatre
The Book Of Mormon
May 8 @ 7:30 pm
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium
The New York Times calls it “the best musical of this century.” The Washington Post says, “It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.” And Entertainment Weekly says, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” Jimmy Fallon of The Tonight Show calls it “Genius. Brilliant. Phenomenal.” It’s THE BOOK OF MORMON, the nine-time Tony Award®-winning Best Musical. Contains explicit language. For more information, visit TheBookOfMormonTour.com
Read more
Categories: Theatre
Thurgood
May 8 @ 7:30 pm
North Carolina Stage Company

Directed by Philip Kershaw

 

CAPTIVATING | HISTORICAL | BIODRAMA

From his landmark victory in Brown v. Board of Education to becoming the first African American to serve on the Supreme Court—Thurgood Marshall devoted his life to the pursuit of a more just world. This captivating one-man play explores his work and life with riveting and inspiring storytelling.

“All bio dramas should be as vivid and entertaining as THURGOOD. A story rich in history, humanity and humor.”

–New York Daily News

 

Content advisory: strong language, use of racial slurs, and descriptions of violence

Read more
Categories: Theatre
Civic Center Commission Meeting
May 8 @ 8:00 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center- Asheville

Sleep Token: The ‘Teeth of God’ Tour

Read more
Categories: Music
PERIPHERY THE WILDFIRE TOUR ‘24
May 8 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

PERIPHERY THE WILDFIRE TOUR ‘24

Eidola
Jake Bowen (DJ Set)

Ages 18+
Read more
Categories: Music
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Arts Discounts Page
May 9 all-day
online w/ ArtsAVL
Read more
Categories: Art & Craft
Asheville Performing Arts Academy Summer Musical Theatre Camps: Registration Open
May 9 all-day
Asheville Performing Arts Academy

We’re offering TWO grade levels this summer for our workshops:

  • Younger Ages (Rising 1st – 3rd Grade)
  • Older Ages (Rising 4th – 10th Grade)

Camps run Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm

Finding Nemo Workshop

June 17-21, 2024

July 8-12, 2024

July 29- Aug 2, 2024

Moana Workshop

June 24-28, 2024

July 15-19, 2024

August 5-9, 2024

Pirate Palooza Workshop

July 1-5, 2024

The Little Mermaid Workshop

July 22-26, 2024

Our Musical Theatre Workshop camps center around favorite stage musicals, where students will learn musical numbers and perform a shortened production at the end of each week. Campers will not only perform in many dance numbers and scenes but will work on the technical aspects that all productions need, like sets, props, and costumes.
Read more
Categories: Education Family Fun Music Theatre
Bee City Asheville Spring Raffle
May 9 all-day
online

Only 400 tickets being sold at $25 each! Sales end May 9 at midnight and the drawing will be held May 10. Every ticket supports pollinator habitat and outreach efforts in the greater Asheville area.

 

Bee City-Asheville pollenteers will help USFWS Conservationist Bryan Tompkins prepare and install the habitat and, afterwards, the owner will receive Bee City-Asheville habitat certification and a written maintenance plan.
Read more
Categories: Fundraisers Garden Events Raffle
BRING ON SPRING w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
May 9 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

 
Read more
Categories: Family Fun Outdoors Sports
Call to artists: public art enhancements of the Asheville Black Cultural Heritage Trail
May 9 all-day
online

Artist Qualification Application

Explore Asheville, River Front Development Group, and the Asheville Black Cultural Heritage Trail (BCHT) Advisory Committee seek artists to submit qualifications for consideration for public art enhancements of the Asheville Black Cultural Heritage Trail. Public art is art utilizing any media such as murals or sculptures in public spaces that are free and open to the public.

Project Background

In 2018 Explore Asheville, powered by the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, supported the creation of the Asheville Black Cultural Heritage trail in partnership with River Front Development Group through a Tourism Product Development Fund Grant. The process included community engagement, the creation of an advisory committee, research, design, installation, and the creation of a digital version of the trail.

Twenty-one signs at 14 sites throughout downtown, Southside, and the River Area in Asheville were installed December 2023. The content of the trail informs the physical path that the trail takes through the historically Black neighborhoods that surround and include downtown Asheville. The four interpretive goals for this project are:

  • Share the accomplishments and contributions of the Black community in Asheville.
  • Celebrate individuals and groups that supported the community.
  • Highlight Black people’s agency and the capacity to express individual power.
  • Combat or correct misconceptions and preserve history for future generations.

Phase II of the project will include enhancement and placemaking through public art.

Artist Eligibility

Explore Asheville invites applications from professional artists or designers aged 18 or older who are eligible to work in the United States. Qualified artists should have experience working within communities in or around Buncombe County and/or a proven record of accomplishment using materials and methods appropriate for large format outdoor art installations. Explore Asheville encourages artists who only have one qualification to partner with an artist or maker who can fulfill the other qualifications. New artists and/or collaboration are encouraged. This call for qualifications is open to all, regardless of experience or size of portfolio.

Read more
Categories: Art & Craft
Catalyst for Change: Volunteer for a Buncombe County Committee
May 9 all-day
online w /Buncombe County

Your voice matters, help shape a brighter tomorrow by joining one of our committees.

Early Childhood Committee:

The Early Childhood Education and Development Fund is a major driver in assuring every child in Buncombe County has an equal opportunity to thrive during their first 2,000 days. The focus of this initiative is to increase access to quality, affordable early childhood education. As such, Buncombe County’s Early Childhood Committee, featuring 15 total members including 3 County Commissioners, was established to guide how the fund is invested. The purpose of the committee is to engage with community partners, solicit public input, and make policy and funding recommendations to the Board of Commissioners. This committee typically meets monthly, on the 1st Tuesdays from 1:00 to 2:30 pm.

We have multiple vacancies on this committee for a 2-year term beginning 7/1/2024. We are seeking:

  • one (1) business community or economic development professional
  • one (1) funder or community investment professional
  • one (1) pediatrician or medical professional in service to young children
  • one (1) professor or higher education professional
  • one (1) member of the public representing the community at large

Strategic Partnership Grant Committee:

The purpose of the Committee is to make Strategic Partnership Grant investment recommendations to the Board of Commissioners for Buncombe County. Strategic Partnership Grant funding is granted to nonprofit organizations working toward outcomes in alignment with County Commissioner goals. The committee generally meets the first Thursday of every month from 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm, with special meetings as needed.

We have one vacancy on this committee for a 3-year term beginning 7/1/2024. We are seeking members that bring expertise in one or more Strategic Plan Focus Areas (education, environment, well-being, economy) and represent the diversity of the County. Applicants should not have any conflicts of interest with nonprofits applying for Strategic Partnership Grants, to include not currently serving on the Board of Directors or staff of an applicant organization.

More information about both programs is available at www.buncombecounty.org/grants.

If you have any questions about these opportunities, please contact Angelyn Johnson ([email protected]) or Sara Joss ([email protected]).

Apply online: https://boardapplications.buncombecounty.org/

Read more
Categories: Community Volunteers
Future Organic Growing + Living Programs Survey
May 9 all-day
online w/ Organic Grower School

We want to hear from you about what classes & workshops

you’d be interested in!

We would greatly appreciate if you took a minute out of your day to fill out this quick survey so we can best serve our community through our educational programming.
Read more
Categories: Community
Goodwill Golf Tournament 2024
May 9 all-day
Tanglewood Park

Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina … teeing up success since 1926. Goodwill’s 24th Annual Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, NC. Proceeds from the event will be used to support Goodwill’s Outreach Scholarship Fund which provides financial assistance and other resources to program participants. Fees include sales tax. Contributions are deductible for federal income taxes in the amount over the market value of $65.00 per golfer. Questions? Please email [email protected].

Read more
Categories: Fundraisers Sports
GrindFest seeks volunteers
May 9 all-day
online

  • We’re excited to be approaching this year’s GRINDfest: the celebration of BIPOC business and entrepreneurship. It’s going to be bigger than ever!!!

    This event is an annual effort to bridge economic gaps so that local BIPOC folks can serve as many customers as possible. Together, we collaborate to support various makers, producers, artists, businesses, and entrepreneurs that work very hard all year to prepare to serve festival attendees.

     

    To sign-up for a specific shift time and role, please visit
    VOLUNTEER SIGNUP FORM

     

    https://grindfestavl.com/

    Home

    Depot St, River Arts District, Asheville, NC

  • FESTIVAL INFORMATION

    EVENT: GRINDFEST 2024
    WHEN: May 24th to May 26th, 2024
    WHERE: A.B. Tech Conference Center | 16 Fernihurst Dr. Asheville, NC 28801

    EVENT SCHEDULE

    • Friday (May 24th)
      • 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM – Annual Meeting
      • 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM – Partners Lunch
      • Friday Night – Vendor Setup (Time TBA)
      • 9:00 PM to 12:00 MN – Casino Night
    • Saturday (May 25th)
      • 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM – Vending
      • 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM – Salvage Station
    • Sunday (May 26th)
      • 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM – Vending
      • 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM – Gospel Showcase

    *****CARNIVAL RIDES start at 12:00 NOON*****

    We still have a lot of activities not included here! Stay Tuned for all our updates!

    FEATURED MINI EVENTS:

    Asheville on Bikes
    Carnival Rides
    Casino Nights
    Gospel Music Showcase
    Latin Bands
    Hiphop Aerobics

    FEATURED EVENTS: [TICKETED]

    Annual Meeting
    Casino Night
    Harlem Night
    Carnival Ride
    Gospel Showcase

     

     

  •  

     

    Email any questions to [email protected].

Read more
Categories: Volunteers
Haunted History + Murder MYstery Tour
May 9 all-day
Gray Line Trolley Tours of Asheville

Sit back if you dare as we illuminate Asheville’s darkest history with astonishing stories of spirits & spies, ghosts & goblins, hauntings & hoodlums and mountain-made murder & mayhem.

Hear stories of . . .

  The legendary PINK LADY at the Grove Park Inn
  The GHOST of Church Street
  The 1936 UNSOLVED MURDER that shook Asheville
  The CHILD SPIRITS at the haunted hospital
  The architect walled into his own church!
  The KILLING SPREE of 1906
  NAZI AGENTS based in Asheville
  ARSON at hospital that claimed Zelda Fitzgerald

Read more
Categories: Tours
Hey Asheville: City Comedy Tour • Ages 13+ Only
May 9 all-day
LaZoom Room Bar & Gorilla

Come enjoy our most popular Asheville tour!

Duration

1 hour and 30 minutes

About

Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties are not permitted on this tour. The Fender Bender Bus is bachelorette/bachelor friendly!

Historical and hysterical, The Hey Asheville tour features outrageously entertaining tour guides, outlandish comedy skits complete with special appearances and loads of Asheville information. You’ll get to see the best of downtown Asheville and the rarely seen but stunningly beautiful Montford neighborhood, not to mention the burgeoning River Arts District! You’ve never had a ride like this. It’s like a vaudeville show on wheels!

Find out what makes Asheville so unique on LaZoom’s City Comedy Tour. It’s the perfect mix of history, comedy, and entertainment. Our guides are trained professional actors working with an original script. It’s like a theatre on wheels! The tour highlights downtown Asheville, historic neighborhoods, the South Slope, and the River Arts District.

Age Restrictions

13 and up. No exceptions.

Stops

10 minute beer & bathroom break at Green Man Brewery

What’s Included

Guided tour of Asheville on a Purple Bus
Funny actors, fun bits
Actual History about Asheville
Green Man Brewery Stop

What’s Not Included

Beer/Wine (Must be purchased from LaZoom or the Brewery Stop)
Cash! You’ll want to tip the guides for changing your life for the better.

Read more
Categories: Comedy Food & Drink Tours
Hop-on/Hop-off SIGHTSEEING TOUR
May 9 all-day
Asheville Area

There is no better way to DISCOVER and EXPLORE Asheville!  Hop-on board one of Gray Line’s nostalgic trolleys for a fully narrated day tour, highlighting the history, homes, hang-outs and hot spots of this “city of surprises.”

Tour Highlights include  .  .  .  Downtown Asheville  |  Montford Historic District  |  The Grove Park Inn and Grove Park Historic District  |  Thomas Wolfe District  |  Pack Square and Asheville Art Museum  |  Grove Arcade  |  River Arts District  |  Biltmore Village

Hop-On and hear the story of a city rich in architecture, history and the arts  . . .

Hop-Off and experience its eclectic shops and galleries; its world class culinary and craft brew scenes.

Tour Duration:  The complete tour (one loop) lasts approximately 90 to 100 minutes.  There is an additional 15 minute stop at the Asheville Visitor Center.  The Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour ticket is valid for TWO consecutive days.

Departure Points: Join the Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour at any of the 10 stops.  If you’re driving in to join the tour, Stop 1, the Asheville Visitor Center may be your best option.  The Visitor Center, located at 36 Montford Ave. just off I-240 at Exit 4C, offers free parking (on a first come-first served basis) and restrooms. The Asheville Visitor Center is the ONLY place to join the Overview Tour.

Read more
Categories: Tours
LEAF SUMMER CAMPS registration open
May 9 – May 8 all-day
LEAF Global Arts

LEAF Schools & Streets invites your students to join us at LEAF Global Arts for summer camps, which run June 17-August 23 at 19 Eagle Street downtown. Registration is open!

Most camps are for rising first-graders through rising sixth-graders, with the addition of the ‘Making a Music Video’ and ‘Songwriting and Recording’ camps for middleschoolers and highschoolers.

SUMMER CAMPS

• June 17-21 – World Dance

• June 24-28 – West African Culture: Drumming, Dance, Clothing & Food

• July 8-12 – Blues

• July 15-19 – LEAF International Haiti

• July 22-25 – Making a Music Video: Songwriting, Recording, and Film-Making*

• July 29-August 2 – Stop Motion Animation

• August 12-15 – Songwriting and Recording*

• August 19-23 – World-Changing Visual Art

*middle and high school, all others are rising 1st-6th
Read more
Categories: Art & Craft Education Family Fun
Mile High Swinging Bridge
May 9 all-day
Grandfather Mountain

One of the top highlights and memories of visits to Grandfather Mountain nature park is walking across the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Since 1952, visitors have “oohed” and “aahed” at the bridge’s 360-degree panoramic views. America’s highest suspension footbridge gives easy access to the spectacular views atop Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak, elevation 5,305 feet.

The 228-foot suspension bridge spans an 80-foot chasm at more than one mile in elevation (hence the name!). To reach the Mile High Swinging Bridge, drive the two-mile, winding scenic road up the mountain to the summit parking area by the Top Shop. Climb 50 stairs adjacent to the parking area or inside the Top Shop to reach the short pathway to the bridge. Also, an elevator in the Top Shop takes you to the third floor for a level walk to the bridge.

Top Shop

Located adjacent to the Bridge, the Top Shop features a gift shop, snacks, restrooms, elevator and second-floor exhibition area. Also get the latest park information and trail maps. Read more.

Accessibility

Inside the Top Shop, an elevator makes the Mile High Swinging Bridge accessible to people with mobility challenges, including those in wheelchairs. From the Top Shop, there is a paved 50-yard path to the bridge. Read more about our accessibility.

Tickets & Hours

Walking across the Mile High Swinging Bridge is included in your Grandfather Mountain admission ticket that includes many other things to do in our nature park. Buy tickets online and book a reservation time to enter the park. You do not need a separate reservation for the bridge. It’s open, weather permitting, every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. See hours.

More to Explore

Before or after visiting the Mile High Swinging Bridge, allow time to enjoy other parts of the mountain: wildlife habitats, Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, restaurant, hiking trails, roadside overlooks, picnic areas and more. See more Things to Do.

Nearby Hiking Trails

Trailheads to many of the Grandfather Mountain hiking trails are located near the Swinging Bridge. In fact, the 0.4 mile Bridge Trail takes you beneath the bridge, starting from the Black Rock parking area just below the summit. For details on our nearby trails, go to our Hiking Guide.

Bridge Tips & Tidbits

  • Does it really swing? Very little — unlike the original one. Today’s bridge is made of steel and reinforced with cables and springs. It has railings on the sides to ensure safety.
  • We suggest you wear rubber-soled shoes and walk with care when crossing the rocks on the far side of the bridge.
  • If heights give you pause, you can still enjoy Blue Ridge Mountain views from the ground before you reach the bridge and even from the parking area.
  • Due to periodic extreme weather conditions at the bridge, it closes when there is area lightning, high wind or icy conditions.
  • The official U.S. Weather Service Reporting Station atop the Mile High Swinging Bridge has provided daily weather observations since 1955. The temperature is usually 10 to 20 degrees cooler than in the flatlands you see below. It’s also one of the windiest locations in North Carolina, with a 124-mph record set in winter 2019. Learn more about our weather.
  • Pets are allowed on the bridge if well behaved and on a leash.
  • Photographs and videos to remember your visit are encouraged. Be mindful of sharp drop-offs along the Linville Peak ridge. Drones are not allowed. See our photography policies.
  • The Singing Bridge? When the wind blows, the Mile High Swinging Bridge “sings” in the same way as a harmonica.
  • In April through October, join Grandfather’s expert naturalists by the Bridge for Interpretive Talks about the our unique weather, climate, flora and fauna. Read more.
  • Need driving directions? The address for Grandfather Mountain’s entrance gate is 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646 (click link for Google Maps). There are no shuttles, so you must have your own vehicle to explore our nature park. No RVs longer than 28 feet in length or hinged vehicles are allowed through the Entrance Gate. See detailed directions.
  • To see much more info, see our Plan Your Visit section.

Mile High Swinging Bridge History

Former North Carolina Tourism Director Charles J. Parker coined the name “Mile High Swinging Bridge” at the Bridge’s dedication in 1952. The term “mile high” refers to the structure’s elevation above sea level (5,280 feet). The term “swinging” refers to the fact that suspension bridges are free to sway.

The original 1952 bridge was designed by Charles Hartmann Jr. of Greensboro, N.C. It was fabricated in Greensboro and then reassembled on top of the Mountain. Erecting the bridge took three weeks, a process slowed by inclement weather created by a hurricane off the North Carolina coast. Cost was $15,000. It was dedicated on Sept. 2, 1952 by North Carolina Gov. William B. Umstead.

The bridge was rebuilt in 1999 using the original towers. The cables, floor boards and side rails were all replaced using galvanized steel. One of the main advantages of the modern building materials is that they do not have to be painted. Now, Grandfather Mountain employees will not have to hang out over the gorge to paint the span. It was redesigned by Sutton, Kennerly & Associates Engineering of Asheville, N.C., and rebuilt by Taylor & Murphy Construction Company of Asheville. The cost of rebuilding was $300,000.

Read more
Categories: Family Fun Outdoors
Park Pavilion Reservations Open
May 9 all-day
online

New Park Pavilion Reservation Software

We have launched a new park pavilion reservation software system where park users can seamlessly book park shelters and fields from the comfort of their home. In order to book a park pavilion or field, go to www.buncombecounty.org/parks and click the “Reserve & Register” button. Click here to view a tutorial on how to book a park pavilion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGOrpvY75Xk
Read more
Categories: Parks & Recreation
Registration Open: Fall 2024-Spring 2025 Asheville Junior Theater – School of Dance
May 9 all-day
Asheville Junior Theater

Get ready to dance into the spotlight because Asheville Junior Theater (AJT) –
School of Dance is excited to announce the grand opening its dance school. Registration
for the upcoming Fall 2024-Spring 2025 season is now open! With a commitment to igniting
artistic passion and fostering unparalleled talent, AJT School of Dance is your ticket to an
electrifying dance experience like no other.

AJT School of Dance is more than just a dance studio; it’s a gateway to a transformative dance
experience. With a focus on fostering self-confidence, promoting integrity, and nurturing a
genuine passion for dance, our dedicated instructors are committed to guiding each student on
a path of artistic discovery and self-expression.

Registration for the Fall 2024-Spring 2025 season at Asheville Junior Theater – School of Dance
is now open! Don’t miss your chance to be part of something extraordinary. Classes are offered
for ages 4-adult.
For more information on class offerings and registration, visit
www.ashevillejuniortheater.com/dance or contact [email protected].
Unique classes offered: Aerial Arts, Tricks and Stunts, Musical Theater, Performance Crew–
in addition to all the various technique classes of Jazz, Tap, Ballet/Lyrical, Hip Hop and more!

Read more
Categories: Dance Education Family Fun
Registration Open: Summer Camps at the Wortham Center
May 9 all-day
Diana Wortham Theatre

Imaginative kids can create, explore, and play in Summer Camps at the Wortham Center! With high-energy, low-pressure programs for rising 1st-5th grade campers, week-long camps expand minds, build life skills, and create meaningful friendships through the arts.

Register now online or by calling the Box Office at 828-257-4530. Space is limited.

A limited number of full and partial need-based scholarships are available upon application through Arts for All Kids. Families who qualify for free or reduced lunch are welcome to apply.

Questions? Email Director of Education Anna Kimmell at [email protected].
2024 Creative Arts Summer Camps

CREATIVE ARTS CAMP
Rising 1st-2nd Grades
JUNE 24-28, 2024 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.  

Little kids with BIG imaginations can dance, sing, act, create, and collaborate in this high-energy, low-pressure arts camp! With engaging activities rooted in creative play, kids will have so much fun expressing themselves through the arts, they won’t even notice they’re also building confidence, improving physical and emotional awareness, honing listening and focus skills, and learning to work within a group. At the end of the week, campers will celebrate what they’ve learned in an informal sharing for friends and family.

$185 in February ($205 after March 1)

Register

PERFORMING ARTS CAMP
Rising 1st-2nd Grades
JULY 15-19, 2024 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.  

In this week-long, half-day summer arts camp, students will have fun exploring the fundamentals of acting, music, and movement. Through engaging activities rooted in creative play, kids will make friends, explore the performing arts, discover new tools for expression, and share what they’ve learned in a short performance presented at the end of the week for friends and family.

$185 in February ($205 after March 1)

Register

CREATIVE ARTS CAMP
Rising 3rd-5th Grades
JULY 8-12, 2024 • 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Kids will have fun exercising their imaginations in this week-long camp exploring the creative arts! With daily activities in acting, dance, music, design, technical theatre, and more, this high-energy, low-pressure camp builds life skills, confidence, and friendships through the arts. Kids will leave feeling empowered to take creative risks on stage and off.

$290 in February ($310 after March 1)

Register

PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS
Rising 3rd-5th Grades
JULY 22-26, 2024 • 9 a.m.-3 p.m.  

Kids can connect with other creative thinkers as they write, develop, and perform in their own original show! With an emphasis on self-expression, collaboration, and the creative process, kids will have fun exploring daily activities in acting, movement, creative writing, and improvisation in a low-pressure, supportive environment. At the end of the week, young artists will share their newfound skills in an informal performance for family and friends. No prior performing arts experience is necessary, only an open mind.

$290 in February ($310 after March 1)

Read more
Categories: Art & Craft Education Family Fun Music Theatre