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.
The Montford Park Players is pleased to announce auditions for its 52nd Season:
Muse of Fire: Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses
Jason Williams, Artistic Director
5/10/2024 5/24/2024 Edward III, directed by Mandy Bean
5/31/2024 6/23/2024 Richard II, directed by Jason Williams
6/28/2024 7/21/2024 Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, directed by Dr. George Brown, Callista Brown and Elizabeth DeVault
7/26/2024 8/25/2024 Henry V, directed by David Doersch
8/30/2024 9/22/2024 Henry VI Parts 1, 2 & 3, directed by Glenna Grant, Ariel Robinson and Adam Kampouris
9/27/2024 10/27/2024 Richard III, directed by Kristi DeVille
Conveniently located in the heart of the Historic Montford District of Asheville, North Carolina, the Outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre is easy to get to and accessible from I-240 and I-26. And, it’s just a short drive down Montford Avenue from downtown.
A night of Live Comedy with in our cozy, vape-friendly Rezonance VIP Lounge, featuring a 3-course cannabis-infused dinner and infused drink, samples from local brands
Another cannabis-infused comedy night with Slice of Life Comedy and Infuso, the married chef team who’s catered the past few events like these!
At 5’2″, Jenn Snyder is our headliner and a hilariously DOPE comedian who packs a whole lot of funny in her one-two punch style of comedy. Topics ranging from her days growing up as a lesbian in a “good ol’ boy” town to dealing with the public on a daily basis, this comedian will pull you in with her stories and leave you wanting more with her quick wit and hilarious observations. Born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, her ultimate goal is to unite all people through laughter.
Host Petey Smith McDowell is an Asheville native who has been traveling all around the country telling jokes since 2009.
He has opened for Rory Scovel, Hannibal Buress, Beth Stelling, and Trevor Noah. Petey has a very popular instagram account that gives funny memes about Asheville and WNC on the daily. Instagram: @Peteysmithmcdowell
Featuring Patrick Fowler
Menu priced From $35.00 to $140
For Two Weeks Only!
Jackie Robinson: A Game Apart provides a glimpse of Jackie Robinson’s life during an era of separate and unequal locker rooms, of whites only hotels, and of restaurants with a back door for colored athletes. Witness a star player who was showered with adulation on the field and became a second-hand citizen when he walked off the diamond. A powerful lesson of courage through dedication, perseverance and leadership.
The Montford Park Players is pleased to announce auditions for its 52nd Season:
Muse of Fire: Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses
Jason Williams, Artistic Director
5/10/2024 5/24/2024 Edward III, directed by Mandy Bean
5/31/2024 6/23/2024 Richard II, directed by Jason Williams
6/28/2024 7/21/2024 Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, directed by Dr. George Brown, Callista Brown and Elizabeth DeVault
7/26/2024 8/25/2024 Henry V, directed by David Doersch
8/30/2024 9/22/2024 Henry VI Parts 1, 2 & 3, directed by Glenna Grant, Ariel Robinson and Adam Kampouris
9/27/2024 10/27/2024 Richard III, directed by Kristi DeVille
Conveniently located in the heart of the Historic Montford District of Asheville, North Carolina, the Outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre is easy to get to and accessible from I-240 and I-26. And, it’s just a short drive down Montford Avenue from downtown.
Within this space, a dream will be induced taking you into a state of consciousness that can bring about immense healing in your conscious, subconscious, and unconscious mind. The cave will transform into a “Nidra Nest” with comfy reclining loungers, blankets, and bolsters to fully support you, whether sitting or lying down, for the entire experience. During this session Kate will also be offering Reiki to those who desire. Reiki feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. It is a powerful attunement that treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and well being. Release stuck emotions, rest, and rejuvenate! Join Reiki Master Teacher and Yoga Nidra Facilitator, Kate Wargo of Woven Light LLC in a soothing Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep) practice guiding you into the “in between”; that space between being awake and being asleep. $56 per person
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.
🎭 Join Me for an Afternoon of Advanced Long Form Improv! 🎭
Are you ready to dive deep into the art of improv? Whether you’re a seasoned performer or an enthusiastic fan, my upcoming Advanced Long Form Improv event is one you won’t want to miss!
Get ready for an afternoon of spontaneous storytelling, where every scene unfolds in unexpected ways. Together we will go on a journey through intricate narratives, rich characters, and imaginative worlds—crafted entirely in the moment! Expect to be entertained, amazed, and inspired by the skillful improvisation of our advanced group.
Please note: This event is intended for adults with a sense of humor who aren’t easily offended
Join me in honoring the New Moon by immersing yourself with the healing vibrations of a Sound Bath! The New Moon is a perfect time to set intentions for growth and new possibilities.
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 Love Offering basis. Donations allow us to continue to provide these immersive experiences.
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.
For Two Weeks Only!
Jackie Robinson: A Game Apart provides a glimpse of Jackie Robinson’s life during an era of separate and unequal locker rooms, of whites only hotels, and of restaurants with a back door for colored athletes. Witness a star player who was showered with adulation on the field and became a second-hand citizen when he walked off the diamond. A powerful lesson of courage through dedication, perseverance and leadership.
The Montford Park Players is pleased to announce auditions for its 52nd Season:
Muse of Fire: Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses
Jason Williams, Artistic Director
5/10/2024 5/24/2024 Edward III, directed by Mandy Bean
5/31/2024 6/23/2024 Richard II, directed by Jason Williams
6/28/2024 7/21/2024 Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, directed by Dr. George Brown, Callista Brown and Elizabeth DeVault
7/26/2024 8/25/2024 Henry V, directed by David Doersch
8/30/2024 9/22/2024 Henry VI Parts 1, 2 & 3, directed by Glenna Grant, Ariel Robinson and Adam Kampouris
9/27/2024 10/27/2024 Richard III, directed by Kristi DeVille
Conveniently located in the heart of the Historic Montford District of Asheville, North Carolina, the Outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre is easy to get to and accessible from I-240 and I-26. And, it’s just a short drive down Montford Avenue from downtown.
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.
Join us for a fun event exploring a variety of different Latin dances. This is a version of our Latin rhythm for those who need some support.
This is a free event open to everyone.
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.
Join us at the Reuter Family YMCA for Healthy Aging Day! September is Healthy Aging Month and the Y has multiple programs and services to help healthy agers.
We will be offering Doc Talks from Hopscotch Primary Care, tables on senior services in the area, giveaways, pickleball presentations, and much more. This event is free, open to everyone, and is presented by Hopscotch Primary Care.
Slice of Life Standup Comedy Contest. Hosted by Hilliary Begley from Netflix & Amazon Prime! Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! Free snacks while availability lasts!
How it Works: The show’s Headliner will be selected by the paid audience in an anonymous ballet after all comics perform their sets. They will write down their favorite top comic of the evening who will be paid & brought back to headline the end of the show with a closing 10-12m set! They will automatically be entered into a Feature headlining show to battle for Asheville title! All standup comics are invited to be on the show as long as there is still room available. There is no cost to performing comics. Comics should have 3-5m of material and be prepared for an additional 10m. Winner will be invited back to be a paid feature on the final battle with grand cash prize, on Sept 26!
Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar–in concert, is heading to the Rock. Born of the evocative 1970 concept album, this groundbreaking production, with lyrics by Sir Tim Rice, is a rock radio play that immerses audiences in a formidable and emotional musical journey. Electrifying music, and gut-punching vocal stylings unite to help narrate the last seven days of Jesus’ life through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. In music industry parlance, it’s all killer, no filler. Expect a powerful and unforgettable experience that will resonate long after the final note is sung.
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.
Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar–in concert, is heading to the Rock. Born of the evocative 1970 concept album, this groundbreaking production, with lyrics by Sir Tim Rice, is a rock radio play that immerses audiences in a formidable and emotional musical journey. Electrifying music, and gut-punching vocal stylings unite to help narrate the last seven days of Jesus’ life through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. In music industry parlance, it’s all killer, no filler. Expect a powerful and unforgettable experience that will resonate long after the final note is sung.
The Montford Park Players is pleased to announce auditions for its 52nd Season:
Muse of Fire: Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses
Jason Williams, Artistic Director
5/10/2024 5/24/2024 Edward III, directed by Mandy Bean
5/31/2024 6/23/2024 Richard II, directed by Jason Williams
6/28/2024 7/21/2024 Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, directed by Dr. George Brown, Callista Brown and Elizabeth DeVault
7/26/2024 8/25/2024 Henry V, directed by David Doersch
8/30/2024 9/22/2024 Henry VI Parts 1, 2 & 3, directed by Glenna Grant, Ariel Robinson and Adam Kampouris
9/27/2024 10/27/2024 Richard III, directed by Kristi DeVille
Conveniently located in the heart of the Historic Montford District of Asheville, North Carolina, the Outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre is easy to get to and accessible from I-240 and I-26. And, it’s just a short drive down Montford Avenue from downtown.
VANITIESby Jack Heifer Directed by Marci Bernstein Chronicling the lives of three best friends from Texas, this show follows our cast from girlhood to adulthood and explores their differentiating opinions on life, experiences, and the future. Beginning in 1963 Texas and landing in New York in 1974 this play is an honest and real reflection of the impact of a changing world through a bittersweet comedic lens. |
Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar–in concert, is heading to the Rock. Born of the evocative 1970 concept album, this groundbreaking production, with lyrics by Sir Tim Rice, is a rock radio play that immerses audiences in a formidable and emotional musical journey. Electrifying music, and gut-punching vocal stylings unite to help narrate the last seven days of Jesus’ life through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. In music industry parlance, it’s all killer, no filler. Expect a powerful and unforgettable experience that will resonate long after the final note is sung.
Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar–in concert, is heading to the Rock. Born of the evocative 1970 concept album, this groundbreaking production, with lyrics by Sir Tim Rice, is a rock radio play that immerses audiences in a formidable and emotional musical journey. Electrifying music, and gut-punching vocal stylings unite to help narrate the last seven days of Jesus’ life through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. In music industry parlance, it’s all killer, no filler. Expect a powerful and unforgettable experience that will resonate long after the final note is sung.
The Montford Park Players is pleased to announce auditions for its 52nd Season:
Muse of Fire: Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses
Jason Williams, Artistic Director
5/10/2024 5/24/2024 Edward III, directed by Mandy Bean
5/31/2024 6/23/2024 Richard II, directed by Jason Williams
6/28/2024 7/21/2024 Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, directed by Dr. George Brown, Callista Brown and Elizabeth DeVault
7/26/2024 8/25/2024 Henry V, directed by David Doersch
8/30/2024 9/22/2024 Henry VI Parts 1, 2 & 3, directed by Glenna Grant, Ariel Robinson and Adam Kampouris
9/27/2024 10/27/2024 Richard III, directed by Kristi DeVille
Conveniently located in the heart of the Historic Montford District of Asheville, North Carolina, the Outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre is easy to get to and accessible from I-240 and I-26. And, it’s just a short drive down Montford Avenue from downtown.
VANITIESby Jack Heifer Directed by Marci Bernstein Chronicling the lives of three best friends from Texas, this show follows our cast from girlhood to adulthood and explores their differentiating opinions on life, experiences, and the future. Beginning in 1963 Texas and landing in New York in 1974 this play is an honest and real reflection of the impact of a changing world through a bittersweet comedic lens. |
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.
🎭 Join Me for an Afternoon of Advanced Long Form Improv! 🎭
Are you ready to dive deep into the art of improv? Whether you’re a seasoned performer or an enthusiastic fan, my upcoming Advanced Long Form Improv event is one you won’t want to miss!
Get ready for an afternoon of spontaneous storytelling, where every scene unfolds in unexpected ways. Together we will go on a journey through intricate narratives, rich characters, and imaginative worlds—crafted entirely in the moment! Expect to be entertained, amazed, and inspired by the skillful improvisation of our advanced group.
Please note: This event is intended for adults with a sense of humor who aren’t easily offended.
To register, please call or text the event organizer, Shane Eisiminger, at 803.463.7388.
Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar–in concert, is heading to the Rock. Born of the evocative 1970 concept album, this groundbreaking production, with lyrics by Sir Tim Rice, is a rock radio play that immerses audiences in a formidable and emotional musical journey. Electrifying music, and gut-punching vocal stylings unite to help narrate the last seven days of Jesus’ life through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. In music industry parlance, it’s all killer, no filler. Expect a powerful and unforgettable experience that will resonate long after the final note is sung.
VANITIESby Jack Heifer Directed by Marci Bernstein Chronicling the lives of three best friends from Texas, this show follows our cast from girlhood to adulthood and explores their differentiating opinions on life, experiences, and the future. Beginning in 1963 Texas and landing in New York in 1974 this play is an honest and real reflection of the impact of a changing world through a bittersweet comedic lens. |
The Montford Park Players is pleased to announce auditions for its 52nd Season:
Muse of Fire: Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses
Jason Williams, Artistic Director
5/10/2024 5/24/2024 Edward III, directed by Mandy Bean
5/31/2024 6/23/2024 Richard II, directed by Jason Williams
6/28/2024 7/21/2024 Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, directed by Dr. George Brown, Callista Brown and Elizabeth DeVault
7/26/2024 8/25/2024 Henry V, directed by David Doersch
8/30/2024 9/22/2024 Henry VI Parts 1, 2 & 3, directed by Glenna Grant, Ariel Robinson and Adam Kampouris
9/27/2024 10/27/2024 Richard III, directed by Kristi DeVille
Conveniently located in the heart of the Historic Montford District of Asheville, North Carolina, the Outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre is easy to get to and accessible from I-240 and I-26. And, it’s just a short drive down Montford Avenue from downtown.
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.