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.
Brevard, North Carolina—“You must feel the Force around you …” On Saturday, July 27 at 8:30 PM, the Brevard Music Center (BMC) is pleased to present Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert at its lakeside, open-air WhittingtonPfohl Auditorium (WPA), located at 349 Andante Lane in Brevard. Lawn seats for Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert start at only $32; students (with a valid ID) and children (17 and under with a paying adult) may sit on the lawn free of charge. For all BMC Summer Festival tickets, visit brevardmusic.org/tickets or call the BMC Box Office at 828.862.2105. “Get ready to be fully immersed in the enchanting world of this intergalactic epic like never before,” said Jason Posnock, President & CEO of Brevard Music Center. “Our Brevard Sinfonia, under the baton of Damon Gupton, will breathe life into John Williams’s Oscar-winning score, performed live in perfect sync with the full feature-length film. This is not just an event; it’s a one-of-a-kind experience that Star Wars fans and families who appreciate the magic of live music and great cinema should not miss!” Part of the Star Wars Film Concert Series, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back stars Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams, and Anthony Daniels. Co-starring roles include David Prowse (Darth Vader), Kenny Baker (R2-D2), Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), and Frank Oz (Yoda).
Brevard Sinfonia
Damon Gupton, conductor
Tickets go on sale to the general public on May 1. To receive early access to tickets for this event, become a donor today! Donor presale begins March 25.
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
Saturdays from June 15-August 10, Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center’s Outdoor Pool
10-10:50am .:. Free for Ages 60+ and $3 for Ages 18-59
B.A.L.L. (Be Active Live Longer) gentle water aerobics incorporate effective strategies to improve cardio fitness, build strength, boost mood, and ease joint pain.
Jack’s Bluegrass Brunch kicks off every Sunday at 12 noon — with lively bluegrass tunes courtesy of The Jack of the Wood Bluegrass Brunch Boys from 1-3pm. Sip a Bloody Mary or Mimosa or a warm Irish coffee. Tasty brunch specials alongside our regular menu and 18 taps of rotating craft brews! Sláinte, y’all!
Cabaret
Book by Joe Masteroff
Based on the play by John Van Druten
and Stories by Christopher Isherwood
Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb
Willkommen to the Kit Kat Klub! A Berlin Nightclub at the end of the 1920s. Hitler’s totalitarian regime and the Nazi Party are on the rise. Be transported back in time and welcome for the first time at Flat Rock Playhouse, Kander and Ebb’s Broadway sensation, Cabaret! Dark and sensual, it will break your heart and lift your spirits more wildly than anything else you’ll see this season. “Cabaret is one of the great Broadway musicals and musical scores of all time–an exhilarating, harrowing masterpiece.” –Time Out New York
*Adult language and content. Parental discretion is advised.
Based on the classic novel, which inspired the 1955 movie starring Fred Astaire, Daddy Long Legs is a beloved tale in the spirit of Jane Austen, The Brontë Sisters and “Downton Abbey.” Daddy Long Legs features music and lyrics by Tony Award-nominated composer/lyricist, Paul Gordon (Jane Eyre), and Tony-winning librettist/director, John Caird (Les Misérables), and is a “rags-to-riches” tale of newfound self-love and determination.
Set in turn-of-the-century New England, the musical tells the story of orphan Jerusha Abbott of the John Grier Home and her mysterious benefactor who agrees to send her to college. With a sweeping score and heartwarming story, this musical is suitable for all ages.
Head to www.avlmt.org or @avlmusicals for more information.
America’s favorite blonde, Elle Woods, is ready to prove who’s in charge in this fabulously fun, award-winning musical based on the adored movie. In the ultimate tribute to girl power, Legally Blonde follows Elle’s transformation from the UCLA sorority house to the Harvard halls of justice as she tackles stereotypes and scandal to pursue her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with pink, memorable songs, and dynamic dances – this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal!
Brevard Music Center Orchestra
Ken Lam, conductor
MARK CONTRERAS WAISS MIXTURA III
Concerto Competition winners
CLAUDE DEBUSSY La Mer
Tickets go on sale to the general public on May 1. To receive early access to tickets for this event, become a donor today! Donor presale begins March 25.
Jack’s long-running Traditional Irish Music Session is the perfect way to enjoy the Celtic-influenced sounds of talented pluckers from all over WNC & further afield! Stop in to enjoy a pint or afternoon Irish coffee with the music! Sláinte!
Relax and unwind to the rhythm and charm of Antler Hill Village as accomplished jazz, blues, rock, pop, swing, bluegrass, and rock duos, trios, and bands deliver fantastic 45-minute sets! Grab a sandwich, a cool drink, or an ice cream cone to enjoy against a backdrop of excellent musicianship, dynamic vocals, and the beauty of Biltmore Estate. Included with admission
Sets begin on the half hour at 4:30 until 8:15 p.m. (last set starts at 7:30)
July Schedule:
Thur. 7/4 – SPEAK EZ, Jazz, R&B and Motown
Fri. 7/5 – FLASHBACK, Classic Rock
Sat. 7/6 – MICHAEL STEVENS QUARTET, Jazz
Sun. 7/7 – STORMY WEATHER, Swing and Rock
Fri. 7/12 – CLAY LUNSFORD BAND, Americana
Sat. 7/13 – FREEPORT JAZZ, Jazz
Sun. 7/14 – FIRECRACKER JAZZ, Jazz
Fri. 7/19 – MICHAEL STEVENS QUARTET, Jazz
Sat. 7/20 – EMPORIUM, Variety 1950’s-Today
Sun. 7/21 – DRAYTON AND THE DREAMBOATS, Swing Jazz and Early Rock
Fri. 7/26 – ANNE COOMBS AND COMPANY SWING, Swing, Jazz, Blues and Pop
Sat. 7/27 – JOSEPH HASTY AND CENTERPIECE JAZZ, Jazz
Sun. 7/28 – MARK GUEST QUINTET, Jazz
To enjoy this complimentary event, guest must have a daytime ticket, a Biltmore Annual Pass, or a stay at one of the estate’s splendid overnight properties. Space is limited; seating available on first-come, first-served basis. Dates and live performance schedule subject to change. Outside food and beverage not permitted on Village Green. Outside alcohol not permitted on Biltmore property.
music by the lake
Each summer, Blue Ridge Community College offers summer concerts beside the College lake as a gift to the community. These free concerts feature a wide range of musical and vocal groups. Bring a lawn chairs and picnic to enjoy the music by the lake. Organized by Blue Ridge Community College.
In the event of inclement weather, the concert will take place in the Technology, Education & Development Center (TEDC) Building.
Lost In Wonderland – Small Town USA – Summer ‘24 Tour
BOYS LIKE GIRLS
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Mondays: Pickin’ in the Park
Enjoy performances by local singer-songwriters in an intimate and relaxed setting. Experience the rich musical heritage of Asheville as talented musicians share their stories and songs.
ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK Terzetto in C major for 2 Violins and Viola
LEOŠ JANÁČEK Mládí
BEDŘICH SMETANA Piano Trio
May 1. To receive early access to tickets for this event, become a donor today! Donor presale begins March 25.
The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Tuesdays: Hoop Jam
Join the fun with hula hoops and a live DJ. Whether you’re a seasoned hooper or a beginner, this vibrant event invites everyone to dance, spin, and groove to the music in a welcoming and energetic atmosphere.
RAIN OR SHINE
CLEAR BAGS ONLY
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
Cabaret
Book by Joe Masteroff
Based on the play by John Van Druten
and Stories by Christopher Isherwood
Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb
Willkommen to the Kit Kat Klub! A Berlin Nightclub at the end of the 1920s. Hitler’s totalitarian regime and the Nazi Party are on the rise. Be transported back in time and welcome for the first time at Flat Rock Playhouse, Kander and Ebb’s Broadway sensation, Cabaret! Dark and sensual, it will break your heart and lift your spirits more wildly than anything else you’ll see this season. “Cabaret is one of the great Broadway musicals and musical scores of all time–an exhilarating, harrowing masterpiece.” –Time Out New York
*Adult language and content. Parental discretion is advised.
Grab some dinner and a pint while enjoying our long-running Old-Time jam! Featuring many talented musicians from the local WNC area, our traditional Appalachian mountain music jam runs from 5-9pm every Wednesday night at Jack of the Wood!
Join the Friends of the Black Mountain Library (FOL) on Wednesday July 31, 2024, at the White Horse Black Mountain (105C Montreat Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711) for an evening of music and snacks. Social time (with food) starts at 5:30 followed by a short recap of the past year’s Friends of the Library’s activities, announcements of new officers, and recognition of FOL volunteers. The Upbeats Ukulele Band will perform a one-hour concert called “Beatlemania” from 6:30-7:30. Come and enjoy this unique performance of all of your favorite Beatles tunes!
Everyone is invited and admission is free. The gathering begins at 5:30pm.
Bring the whole family and enjoy the evening. We look forward to seeing you!
Sing songs that celebrate Peace & Community, with Resident Teaching Artist Melissa McKinney. Sing, play, drum, and dance while learning songs from the Justice Choir Songbook.
Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
$15 drop-in class
All ages welcome.
Karaoke Night at Hickory Tavern
Even in our futuristic age of AI chatbots and virtual realities, there is still nothing in the world that compares with the thrill of hearing classic genres of music, performed live by a group of exceptional singers and musicians that have truly mastered the ability to move an audience. That’s the philosophy behind Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox.
Concertgoers can expect a dazzling, inspiring trip through the PMJ Universe — where modern-day earworms and iconic pop hits alike are reimagined in classic genres like 1920s jazz, Swing, Doo-wop and Motown, and brought to life by a cast of some of the world’s best singers, dancers, and instrumentalists.
For this year’s Pritchard Park Songwriter Series, the Asheville Association is teaming up with Paloma Madre who are best known for bringing Asheville the wildly successful, international concept, Open Folk. Each week will feature two world class songwriters from our community playing introspective and honest tunes about life in the 21st century. Pritchard Park will once again be filled with the sweet sounding songs of heartbreak, true love, heavy loss, and lots and lots of goofin. It’s a guaranteed good time that won’t cost you a dime!!
We are excited to announce that the 97th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival will be held August 1, 2, and 3, 2024 in the lovely Kittredge Theatre at Warren Wilson College due to the upcoming renovation of UNCA Lipinsky Auditorium.
Much appreciation to Ingles for their support of the very successful 96th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival
97th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival
Kittredge Theatre
Warren Wilson College
701 Warren Wilson Road
Swannanoa, N.C. 28778
August 1, 2, 3, 2024
Shows begin at 7 PM
Advance tickets: eventbrite.com after December 1, 2023
Prices to be as follows:
Adult: $20.00/advance, $25.00/at door; Students: $5.00/Advance, $10.00/at door; Children under 12: $5.00; Groups of 10 or more: $15.00 each/Advance, $20.00 each/at door; 3-night package $55.00/advance, $60.00 at door.
BLUEGRASS JAM
Hosted by Drew Matulich
Don’t miss your chance to check out some of the best pickers from all over WNC at our amazing Bluegrass Jam curated by the talented Drew Matulich — every Thursday starting at 7:00 pm! A real show-stopping performance only at Jack of the Wood! Open jam starts at 9:30 pm.
Cabaret
Book by Joe Masteroff
Based on the play by John Van Druten
and Stories by Christopher Isherwood
Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb
Willkommen to the Kit Kat Klub! A Berlin Nightclub at the end of the 1920s. Hitler’s totalitarian regime and the Nazi Party are on the rise. Be transported back in time and welcome for the first time at Flat Rock Playhouse, Kander and Ebb’s Broadway sensation, Cabaret! Dark and sensual, it will break your heart and lift your spirits more wildly than anything else you’ll see this season. “Cabaret is one of the great Broadway musicals and musical scores of all time–an exhilarating, harrowing masterpiece.” –Time Out New York
*Adult language and content. Parental discretion is advised.