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Nantahala Outdoor Center’s premier Mountaintop Zip Line Tour takes the heart-pounding intensity up a notch when it’s under the night time sky! On dates near a full moon, NOC offers limited trips on this stunning Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour.
Zip under the night sky while taking in the sights and sounds of the calm Blue Ridge Mountains. NOC’s expert aerial guides use glow sticks to signal you, and you use glow sticks to paint the night sky. This adventure truly feels magical.
NOC’s Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour consists of two-miles of mountaintop-to-mountaintop zip lines, culminating in the heart-pounding 1/2 mile Mega Zip underneath the stars – silhouetting stunning 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Highlights
NOC’s Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line is an unparalleled experience of mountaintop-to-mountaintop zips under a full moon.
Glow sticks are used by Aerial Guides to signal you forward through the course.
Participants use glow sticks to paint the star-filled sky.
The 1/2 Mile Mega Zip is the true gem of the trip – offering silhouetted 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the starry night sky.
What to Expect
Please check-in for your trip 30 minutes prior to your reservation at the Adventure Deck. All guests should have prior zip lining experience. Once being fitted for equipment, guests will shuttle to a ground school where they will receive instructions on how to use glow sticks to signal with the Aerial Guides. Guests will be required to demonstrate proficiency in zip lining including breaking.
Outpace Hunger Feed People and Your Passion
Aug 4 all-day
Online w/ Manna FoodBank
OUTPACE HUNGER
FEED PEOPLE AND YOUR PASSION!
What Is Outpace Hunger?
Looking for a way to make a real impact this spring and summer? Feed people while pursuing your passion through Outpace Hunger, an action-based fundraising campaign that turns a favorite activity into meals!
For decades, MANNA FoodBank has been working to outpace hunger and food insecurity all across 16 counties of Western North Carolina, including the Qualla Boundary. The 2022 campaign runs May 1 through September 30, and we invite you join the growing community of folks who are Outpacing Hunger alongside of us!
How It Works
Participating in Outpace Hunger is easy!
You decide your level of commitment, so every participant can create their own path to helping provide food to our community. Participants also decide how, when, and where they complete their goal, any time now through the campaign end on September 30.
Outpace Hunger participants:
(1) Register to be a part of MANNA’s Outpace Hunger community. The $20 registration fee includes a t-shirt for you and provides 80 MEALS for neighbors facing food insecurity in WNC.
(2) Choose a favorite activity (run, walk, roll, stroll, hike, bike, paddle, climb, float, skate, golf, and everything in between!) to complete individually, or as a family/group/team.
(3) Set a goal to reach. This can be an activity-related goal, a fundraising goal, or both.
(4) Invite friends and family to support your fundraising efforts through your own, personalized Outpace Hunger webpage.
Whether running a 5K, walking your neighborhood, hiking the Mountains to Sea trail, or paddling the French Broad River, Outpace Hunger participants play a vital part in ensuring our WNC neighbors have access to healthy food.
Join us on the magical Fairy Trail where your imagination is the only limit.
Developed by Fairies and dedicated volunteers, Bullington Gardens’ Fairy Trail is a whimsical treat for the young and the young at heart. Featuring charming vignettes and villages, the fairy trail will charm you with its thoughtful design, eye catching displays and secret woodland trail.
Rules of the trail:
Do not move or rearrange fairy displays. The fairies are very fond of their own decorating.
Do not leave trash on the trail. Fairies do not like litter in their town.
Please ensure children and pets are supervised at all times. Dogs and loud noises can scare the fairies into hiding.
Do not disturb wildlife or vegetation. The fairies depend on the vegetation to build their homes.
The trail is one way only. Please stay on the trail at all times.
P.S. the Fairies would like us to remind you that we are a non-profit and donations are greatly appreciated. Help us keep the fairies living in the style with which they’ve become accustomed.
PIGEON RAFTING SPECIAL
Aug 4 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Find adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains! Try one of our two whitewater rafting trips on the Pigeon River, conveniently located near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Asheville, and Maggie Valley.
Raft the Upper Pigeon for a full dose of excitement with a dozen Class III and IV rapids, or if gentle rapids and swimming holes are more your speed, float the Lower Pigeon – ideal for families and groups with young children.
Save $10 per person on the Upper or Lower Pigeon! Use code: PIGEON10 at checkout.
Carl Sandburg Summer Plays
Aug 4 @ 10:15 am
Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
Sandburg Summer Stage
2022 Season will offer Rootabaga Express! on Thursday and Saturday mornings at 10:15 am.
Celebrate 100 years of Rootabaga this summer! Published in 1922, the “Rootabaga Stories” have entertained readers and audiences of all ages for 100 years. Use the links at the bottom to read a story or watch part of a play.
The Sandburg Summer Stage is a series of free public performances. These 30-minute programs feature the cast and directors from The Vagabond School of the Drama, an apprentice program of the Flat Rock Playhouse. Performances are held rain or shine, at the park amphitheatre near the Front Lake.
Rootabaga Express!
Carl Sandburg created his own version of American fairy tales when he published Rootabaga Stories (1922) and Rootabaga Pigeons (1923). He replaced the European fairy tale cast of princes, princesses, castles and kingdoms with icons American children would recognize — taxi-drivers, movie actors, skyscrapers, prairies and automobiles. Rootabaga Express! brings the stories of the Five Rusty Rats, Bimbo the Snip and more to life.You’ll meet new characters and journey farther into the Village of Liver and Onions and Sandburg’s imagination than ever before.The 30-minute shows are appropriate for all ages and held rain or shine.
These shows are supported by the Flat Rock Playhouse and the Park Store, operated by America’s National Parks.
Apprentice actors from the Flat Rock Playhouse have performed adaptations of Sandburg’s works for park visitors since 1974. Using Sandburg’s own words from his collections of children’s stories, poetry, collected music, biography of Abraham Lincoln and his own autobiography, the performances provide visitors with a sense of the scope of his work and imagination. Sandburg was an expert storyteller, and easily wove important messages of fairness, empathy and social justice into his writings. Whatever play you are able to attend you will walk away with a smile on your face and a better understanding of the legacy of Carl Sandburg.
Pools are open Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday from 1-6 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, pools may close for a short period of time or the entire day. Follow individual pools on Facebook for the latest information on closings.
Cost to swim is $3.00 per day. Visitors are welcome to bring their own chairs and lounging towels.
For many local families, our pool openings signal the beginning of summer and more relaxing days. They’re an affordable, fun, and healthy way to beat the heat. Thanks to their locations, they’re also surrounded by stunning views of our mountains.
Pools are located across the county, ensuring easy access for all kids and families. The facilities are managed through an agreement with Swim Club Management Group of Asheville which oversees maintenance, hires staff, and handles daily operations. Community members can sign up for swim lessons and book private parties on the management group’s website, buncombepool.com.
Sun safety information is available at each location, but pool visitors are reminded to apply water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before putting on a bathing suit and reapply every two hours or after swimming. Other tips to avoid the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays include wearing high-UPF swim shirts, wide brim hats, and wraparound UV-blocking sunglasses. More sun safety tips are available from the American Academy of Dermatology.
Pool Locations
Cane Creek Pool
590 Lower Brush Creek Road
Fletcher, NC 28732 Like on Facebook
Erwin Pool
58 Lees Creek Road
Asheville, NC 28806 Like on Facebook
Hominy Valley Pool
25 Twin Lakes Road
Candler, NC 28715 Like on Facebook
North Buncombe Pool
892 Clarks Chapel Road
Weaverville, NC 28787 Like on Facebook
Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Thursdays and most Fridays through September 30, 2022 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.
There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.
Beer, Wine, and soft drinks will be for sale onsite at the Green Gardener’s Shed from 5:30 to 8:15 p.m. each night of the event. Outside alcohol is strictly prohibited, but guests are welcome to bring in water or a favorite non-alcoholic beverage.
Food Available for Pre-Order, Picnics Welcome
Although the Bent Creek Bistro will not be open during the event, they will be offering their delicious dining options at ArborEvenings via pre-order! Simply place your online order — including alcoholic beverages — up until 11 a.m. on the date you plan to attend, then pick up your order at the Baker Information Desk between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. (In the event of rain cancellation, pre-orders will be fully refunded.)
Guests are welcome to bring in outside food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Please note: ArborEvenings will not be held in the event of rain. Please check the website or Facebook page by 3 p.m. for any cancellation announcements prior to attending.
Grandfather Presents: Ginger Zee
Aug 4 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain
The second speaker in our 2022 Grandfather Presents series is Ginger Zee. Ginger is the chief meteorologist and managing editor of the climate unit at ABC News. You can see her covering the nation’s weather headlines on Good Morning America and across all ABC News broadcasts and digital platforms. She also hosts an ABC News original digital series, Food Forecast, focused on climate and its impact on agriculture. Ginger has covered almost every major weather event and dozens of historic storms during the past 15 years—from Hurricane Katrina to Hurricane Sandy and Michael; from the Australian wildfires to the climate’s impact on Victoria Falls, Africa; and the aftermath of tornadoes all over the United States, most notably those in Moore and El Reno, Oklahoma. She has covered blizzards in Boston and record-breaking heat in Death Valley. She not only shares her passion for meteorology, but more importantly, she presents the compassion and human side of these storms.
Having storm-chased since college, Ginger has a genuine love for the atmosphere and a dedication to getting young people interested in science. She has written a STEM trilogy called Chasing Helicity for middle grades, which follows a storm chasing a young woman named Helicity across the U.S. while learning about science and life.
Ginger is the author of Natural Disaster: I Cover Them. I Am One and A Little Closer to Home: How I Found the Calm After the Storm, which debuted in January 2022. Both books focus on Ginger’s own depression and journey of discovery around mental health issues.
Ginger, who is an Emmy and Murrow Award-winning meteorologist, attended Valparaiso University and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in meteorology. She served as an adjunct professor at her alma mater from 2008 to 2011. Ginger also holds the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist seal from the American Meteorological Society. In March 2020, Ginger was inducted into the Weather Hall of Fame in Oklahoma. She lives with her husband and two sons in New York.
Ginger agreed to be the face and voice of Grandfather’s new Weather and Climate exhibit in the Wilson Center. Guests can see her narrating a video on the differences between weather and climate and how they affect the mountain in the Paul & Susie O’Connell Exhibit Hall.
More About Grandfather Presents
Our 2022 speaker series at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery includes three big Thursday night events with internationally and nationally known presenters. Presented by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, the series also includes three Saturday afternoon presentations focused on nature, adventure or conservation-related topics on a local or regional scale. Read more.
Schedule
5 – 6 p.m.: Entrance Gate opens for event. Proceed about one mile to Wilson Center for Nature Discovery.
5:15 – 5:45 p.m.: VIP event in the sunroom (holders of Pro Series Pass) to meet Ginger Zee.
5:30 – 6 p.m.: Reception for all ticket holders inside Wilson Center for Nature Discovery
6 – 7 p.m.: Presentation in Classroom in the Clouds event space
7 – 8 p.m.: Book Signing & Exhibits Open
Tickets
$50 per person (purchase below starting June 24)
Grandfather Presents Series Pass available for Bridge Club Members. Read more.
Refunds/Cancelations
The majority of Grandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list. If you cannot attend the event that you registered for please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration please call 828-733-2013 Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Beat Goes On: Lake Julian Park Drum Circle
Aug 4 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Lake Julian Park
We are shamelessly drumming up attention for our exciting new program at Lake Julian Park. Starting Thursday, March 31, Buncombe County Recreation Services is hosting a drum circle on the last Thursday of every month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The only thing you need to bring is yourself and a drum, and then just let the rhythm and beautiful scenery do the work as you enjoy the beat and comradery of fellow percussionists.
All experience levels are welcome, and registration is not required. If you have any questions, please contact Park Ranger Zach Hickok at (828) 684-0376.
: Every Last Thursday until -Sept. 29 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Park shelter number 2, Lake Julian Park, 26 Lake Julian R
National Park Fee Free Days: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
Aug 4 @ 8:06 pm – 9:06 pm
Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
Come experience the national parks! On five days in 2022, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee–free dates in 2022. Please check operating status at this park and others before traveling as there may be changes due to Covid-19.
Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA)
Improvements to infrastructure through GAOA will increase opportunities for everyone to experience their national parks.
NPS Photo
This landmark conservation legislation established the National Parks and Public Lands Legacy Restoration Fund, which uses revenue from energy development to provide up to $1.9 billion a year for five years to provide needed maintenance for critical facilities and infrastructure in our national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, recreation areas, and American Indian schools. The National Park Service, which has one of the largest asset portfolios of all federal agencies, receives 70 percent of the Legacy Restoration Fund each year.
GAOA also designated royalties from offshore oil and natural gas to permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund to the tune of $900 million a year to invest in conservation and recreation opportunities across the nation.
The Land and Water Conservation Fund receives up to $900 million a year from offshore oil and natural gas royalties. This funding assists national parks in the acquisition of essential lands and provides states with money to invest in local conservation and recreation opportunities.
ince 2003, the Bearfootin’ Art Walk has helped raise funding for Downtown Hendersonville and a variety of local non-profits. In addition to raising funds, the bears offer a window into good work being done by community organizations in Henderson County.
The Bearfootin’ Bears arrive as blank slates before local artists transform each in a spectacular fashion, with creative themes ranging from Mona Lisa to Blue Ridge Mountain scenery. After the “Reveal” event in early May, the bears then take up residence in downtown Hendersonville for the duration of the summer and fall, up until auction. Participants bid during the auction to raise funds for local non-profits and Downtown Hendersonville. Winning bids up to $3,000 are split evenly between the downtown program and the nonprofit chosen by the sponsor, while bid amounts exceeding $3,000 are directed entirely to the non-profit. In 2021, the Bears raised more than $100,000, and in 2022 we hope to continue the tradition of giving.
END OF SUMMER RAFTING SPECIAL!
Aug 5 all-day
Various rivers in Western NC
END OF SUMMER
RAFTING SPECIAL!
There’s still time to squeeze a little more splash into your summer! There is nothing is better than cool mountain water in the August heat. Paddle the French Broad River or take it next level with a ducky rental down the Nantahala. Whichever you choose, here’s an End of Summer Offer you can’t refuse!
SAVE 20% OFF
ON SELECT OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
PADDLE22
Use code PADDLE22 through August 31st for 20% OFF any of the four activities highlighted below. Activity dates through 9/5 are eligible for the discount.
NANTAHALA RAFTING
A classic and a must-do experience for anyone visiting the Southeast!
FRENCH BROAD RAFTING
Just 30 minutes from downtown Asheville, you can have fun on the river and make it back to town in time for dinner.
CHATTOOGA RIVER
SECT. III
The Wild and Scenic Chattooga River is an iconic river rafting adventure, rich in natural beauty and acclaimed rapids. Come see for yourself!
Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour
Aug 5 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Nantahala Outdoor Center’s premier Mountaintop Zip Line Tour takes the heart-pounding intensity up a notch when it’s under the night time sky! On dates near a full moon, NOC offers limited trips on this stunning Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour.
Zip under the night sky while taking in the sights and sounds of the calm Blue Ridge Mountains. NOC’s expert aerial guides use glow sticks to signal you, and you use glow sticks to paint the night sky. This adventure truly feels magical.
NOC’s Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour consists of two-miles of mountaintop-to-mountaintop zip lines, culminating in the heart-pounding 1/2 mile Mega Zip underneath the stars – silhouetting stunning 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Highlights
NOC’s Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line is an unparalleled experience of mountaintop-to-mountaintop zips under a full moon.
Glow sticks are used by Aerial Guides to signal you forward through the course.
Participants use glow sticks to paint the star-filled sky.
The 1/2 Mile Mega Zip is the true gem of the trip – offering silhouetted 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the starry night sky.
What to Expect
Please check-in for your trip 30 minutes prior to your reservation at the Adventure Deck. All guests should have prior zip lining experience. Once being fitted for equipment, guests will shuttle to a ground school where they will receive instructions on how to use glow sticks to signal with the Aerial Guides. Guests will be required to demonstrate proficiency in zip lining including breaking.
Nantahala Outdoor Center 2023 Adventure travel trips
Aug 5 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Adventure is what we do.
Nantahala Outdoor Center has a long history of venturing where many haven’t, pioneering new adventures, and bringing opportunities to experience the outdoors to millions of guests over five decades. Our International Adventure Tours offer unique destinations, exciting adventures and activities, experienced guides, and world-class hospitality. These all-inclusive, small group excursions will redefine how you travel. Experience some of the most breathtaking places in the world without feeling like a tourist.
If your idea of fun is a rafting trip on the Chilko, a quiet lake paddle in Argentina, surf lessons in Ecuador, or trekking in Iceland, our trips have something for every adventure and skill level. Enjoy kayaking, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, yoga, surfing, ziplining, wine tastings, or cultural experiences, along with the flexibility to customize your own adventure. Settle in after your travels in some of the most unique accommodations in the world; from cozy lodges and five star resorts, with local cuisine and tastings, every detail is meticulously planned so you can soak up every moment.
We hope these guided, off-the-beaten-path expeditions will foster the same spirit of adventure we encourage in our Southeastern locations, while giving you the opportunity to explore beyond your own backyard.
We have officially announced our new 2023 Adventure travel trips for you to explore new destinations, try new adventures, and experience new cultures! Our trips are small groups, offer world-class hospitality, unique lodging and the most diverse activity options for you to try! We’re giving “revenge travel” new meaning.
Outpace Hunger Feed People and Your Passion
Aug 5 all-day
Online w/ Manna FoodBank
OUTPACE HUNGER
FEED PEOPLE AND YOUR PASSION!
What Is Outpace Hunger?
Looking for a way to make a real impact this spring and summer? Feed people while pursuing your passion through Outpace Hunger, an action-based fundraising campaign that turns a favorite activity into meals!
For decades, MANNA FoodBank has been working to outpace hunger and food insecurity all across 16 counties of Western North Carolina, including the Qualla Boundary. The 2022 campaign runs May 1 through September 30, and we invite you join the growing community of folks who are Outpacing Hunger alongside of us!
How It Works
Participating in Outpace Hunger is easy!
You decide your level of commitment, so every participant can create their own path to helping provide food to our community. Participants also decide how, when, and where they complete their goal, any time now through the campaign end on September 30.
Outpace Hunger participants:
(1) Register to be a part of MANNA’s Outpace Hunger community. The $20 registration fee includes a t-shirt for you and provides 80 MEALS for neighbors facing food insecurity in WNC.
(2) Choose a favorite activity (run, walk, roll, stroll, hike, bike, paddle, climb, float, skate, golf, and everything in between!) to complete individually, or as a family/group/team.
(3) Set a goal to reach. This can be an activity-related goal, a fundraising goal, or both.
(4) Invite friends and family to support your fundraising efforts through your own, personalized Outpace Hunger webpage.
Whether running a 5K, walking your neighborhood, hiking the Mountains to Sea trail, or paddling the French Broad River, Outpace Hunger participants play a vital part in ensuring our WNC neighbors have access to healthy food.
Join us on the magical Fairy Trail where your imagination is the only limit.
Developed by Fairies and dedicated volunteers, Bullington Gardens’ Fairy Trail is a whimsical treat for the young and the young at heart. Featuring charming vignettes and villages, the fairy trail will charm you with its thoughtful design, eye catching displays and secret woodland trail.
Rules of the trail:
Do not move or rearrange fairy displays. The fairies are very fond of their own decorating.
Do not leave trash on the trail. Fairies do not like litter in their town.
Please ensure children and pets are supervised at all times. Dogs and loud noises can scare the fairies into hiding.
Do not disturb wildlife or vegetation. The fairies depend on the vegetation to build their homes.
The trail is one way only. Please stay on the trail at all times.
P.S. the Fairies would like us to remind you that we are a non-profit and donations are greatly appreciated. Help us keep the fairies living in the style with which they’ve become accustomed.
PIGEON RAFTING SPECIAL
Aug 5 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Find adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains! Try one of our two whitewater rafting trips on the Pigeon River, conveniently located near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Asheville, and Maggie Valley.
Raft the Upper Pigeon for a full dose of excitement with a dozen Class III and IV rapids, or if gentle rapids and swimming holes are more your speed, float the Lower Pigeon – ideal for families and groups with young children.
Save $10 per person on the Upper or Lower Pigeon! Use code: PIGEON10 at checkout.
Pools are open Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday from 1-6 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, pools may close for a short period of time or the entire day. Follow individual pools on Facebook for the latest information on closings.
Cost to swim is $3.00 per day. Visitors are welcome to bring their own chairs and lounging towels.
For many local families, our pool openings signal the beginning of summer and more relaxing days. They’re an affordable, fun, and healthy way to beat the heat. Thanks to their locations, they’re also surrounded by stunning views of our mountains.
Pools are located across the county, ensuring easy access for all kids and families. The facilities are managed through an agreement with Swim Club Management Group of Asheville which oversees maintenance, hires staff, and handles daily operations. Community members can sign up for swim lessons and book private parties on the management group’s website, buncombepool.com.
Sun safety information is available at each location, but pool visitors are reminded to apply water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before putting on a bathing suit and reapply every two hours or after swimming. Other tips to avoid the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays include wearing high-UPF swim shirts, wide brim hats, and wraparound UV-blocking sunglasses. More sun safety tips are available from the American Academy of Dermatology.
Pool Locations
Cane Creek Pool
590 Lower Brush Creek Road
Fletcher, NC 28732 Like on Facebook
Erwin Pool
58 Lees Creek Road
Asheville, NC 28806 Like on Facebook
Hominy Valley Pool
25 Twin Lakes Road
Candler, NC 28715 Like on Facebook
North Buncombe Pool
892 Clarks Chapel Road
Weaverville, NC 28787 Like on Facebook
Want to learn how to co-exist safely with bears? Want to know more about black bears in North Carolina? Staff with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission will discuss the natural history of black bears in western North Carolina and how you can use that information to safely coexist with these North Carolina treasures. This program is geared towards older children and adults and is about 1-hour long.
Among the topics covered will be:
The new BearWise initiative, which provides ways to prevent conflicts, provides resources to resolve problems, and encourages community initiatives to keep bears wild.
The next phase of the Urban-Suburban Bear Study (study area located in Asheville, NC).
Visiting Asheville soon and looking for a fun way to fill your Friday night? The Asheville Drum Circle is a tradition unique to the area. While locals usually begin the beating of drums, tourists are welcome to join, dance, or simply take in the incredible atmosphere at any point.
If you’re looking for things to do in the area during your stay, this is a must! Here’s everything you should know about the Drum Circle.
The Asheville Drum Circle is a free event that’s open to all.
ArborEvenings
Aug 5 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
The North Carolina Arboretum
Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Thursdays and most Fridays through September 30, 2022 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.
There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.
Beer, Wine, and soft drinks will be for sale onsite at the Green Gardener’s Shed from 5:30 to 8:15 p.m. each night of the event. Outside alcohol is strictly prohibited, but guests are welcome to bring in water or a favorite non-alcoholic beverage.
Food Available for Pre-Order, Picnics Welcome
Although the Bent Creek Bistro will not be open during the event, they will be offering their delicious dining options at ArborEvenings via pre-order! Simply place your online order — including alcoholic beverages — up until 11 a.m. on the date you plan to attend, then pick up your order at the Baker Information Desk between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. (In the event of rain cancellation, pre-orders will be fully refunded.)
Guests are welcome to bring in outside food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Please note: ArborEvenings will not be held in the event of rain. Please check the website or Facebook page by 3 p.m. for any cancellation announcements prior to attending.
Light Up the Night 5k
Aug 5 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Carrier Park
Western Carolina Rescue Ministries and iDaph Events present the 4th Annual Light Up the Night 5k! This event is a fundraising, nighttime walk/run event that welcomes all people regardless of ability, race, color, ethnicity, gender, or faith. All the proceeds from this event will directly benefit the continuous work of recovery, rescue, and restoration to individuals throughout WNC.
The first 200 people to register will also receive a FREE glow-in-the-dark commemorative finisher medal!
Each 5k registration will include a FREE t-shirt until July 10th at midnight. After that date, shirts will be available for purchase, in limited quantities and sizes, for $10. Glow sticks, necklaces and bracelets will be available for our in-person participants!
The event will take place at Carrier Park in Asheville, NC on Friday, August 5th. This is your time to shine! Runners will have a rolling start between 7:30 PM to 7:45 PM and take to the greenway to run or walk this fun and unique event.
In addition to the in-person event, there is also a virtual offering for participants who aren’t comfortable coming to an in-person event. The Virtual 5k event experience gives participants an opportunity to participate in this fundraising event ANYWHERE! Walk/Run/Hike 5k and submit your results online!
Western Carolina Rescue Ministries (WCRM) exists to serve the homeless, poor and addicted populations of Western North Carolina. They meet people in crisis, focus on helping them at the point of their need, invest in their future, and help them until they can move forward.
Music On Main Concert featuring The Blake Ellege Band
Aug 5 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Visitor Center Stage
Music on Main is the annual Friday evening summer concert series at the Hendersonville Visitor Center. Each week, bring a chair, sit back and enjoy free live music! Every concert showcases a different band performing diverse line-up ranging from pop, oldies, rock, to contemporary music. The family-friendly event offers concessions such as hot dogs, ice cream, pretzels and lemonade for sale. Every Friday evening, the Carolina Mountain Car Club hosts a classic car show in conjunction with Music on Main. The car shows are located in front of the Wells Fargo between Barnwell and Caswell Streets, which will be closed to traffic.
Brevard Summer Music Festival: Sleeping Beauty + Boléro
Aug 5 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Whittington-Pfohl Auditorium
The romantic and enchanting music of Sleeping Beauty embodies Tchaikovsky’s mastery of orchestration and melodic line. Ravel’s most well-known work builds suspense from a simple theme and relentless rhythmic structure until the pent up tension is released perfectly in a glorious burst of musical fireworks.
PERFORMANCE & ARTIST DETAILS Brevard Concert Orchestra Ken Lam, conductor
1st Half Concert Band PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY Suite from Sleeping Beauty MAURICE RAVEL Boléro
Auditorium seating is reserved. Lawn seating is general admission.
Grandfather by Night
Aug 5 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Grandfather Mountain
Explore Grandfather Mountain after hours with your own guides. You’ll discover some of the nighttime wonders through the park, while stopping at its most significant sites. Watch a stunning Grandfather sunset, and experience the mountain as never before!
This event costs $50 for general admission and $42 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club. Registration opens here July 5.
Much Ado About Nothing
Aug 5 @ 7:30 pm
Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre
by William Shakespeare Directed by Dwight Chiles Opening 7/15/2022 – 8/13/2022
ince 2003, the Bearfootin’ Art Walk has helped raise funding for Downtown Hendersonville and a variety of local non-profits. In addition to raising funds, the bears offer a window into good work being done by community organizations in Henderson County.
The Bearfootin’ Bears arrive as blank slates before local artists transform each in a spectacular fashion, with creative themes ranging from Mona Lisa to Blue Ridge Mountain scenery. After the “Reveal” event in early May, the bears then take up residence in downtown Hendersonville for the duration of the summer and fall, up until auction. Participants bid during the auction to raise funds for local non-profits and Downtown Hendersonville. Winning bids up to $3,000 are split evenly between the downtown program and the nonprofit chosen by the sponsor, while bid amounts exceeding $3,000 are directed entirely to the non-profit. In 2021, the Bears raised more than $100,000, and in 2022 we hope to continue the tradition of giving.
END OF SUMMER RAFTING SPECIAL!
Aug 6 all-day
Various rivers in Western NC
END OF SUMMER
RAFTING SPECIAL!
There’s still time to squeeze a little more splash into your summer! There is nothing is better than cool mountain water in the August heat. Paddle the French Broad River or take it next level with a ducky rental down the Nantahala. Whichever you choose, here’s an End of Summer Offer you can’t refuse!
SAVE 20% OFF
ON SELECT OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
PADDLE22
Use code PADDLE22 through August 31st for 20% OFF any of the four activities highlighted below. Activity dates through 9/5 are eligible for the discount.
NANTAHALA RAFTING
A classic and a must-do experience for anyone visiting the Southeast!
FRENCH BROAD RAFTING
Just 30 minutes from downtown Asheville, you can have fun on the river and make it back to town in time for dinner.
CHATTOOGA RIVER
SECT. III
The Wild and Scenic Chattooga River is an iconic river rafting adventure, rich in natural beauty and acclaimed rapids. Come see for yourself!
LEAF Solid Gold 50th Festival: Legends of Africa
Aug 6 all-day
online w/ LEAF
Listen. Dance. Feel the music and that will answer, “Why the “Legends of Africa?” Africa is the core and essence of where so much of humanity and music has originated. It has forever influenced music and cultures throughout the world with the diaspora of its people. Over the years, LEAF has connected deeply with many African artists and presented artists from 32 of the 54 countries on the continent. These bonds and our love of Africa, bring us back the magic of not just the continent, but its people, our family. So join us for a true gathering of friends and the rekindling of traditions that have made the past 27 years of LEAF memorable.
“The shortest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.”
Masankho Banda from Malawi.
Who is an African Legend you admire? Chinobay of Uganda said he’s been inspired by the music he listened to during Apartheid. He spoke of Miriam Makeba (nicknamed Momma Africa) a South African singer, songwriter and activist whose music was socially responsible and carried so much power for the people. What makes you a Legend is the MESSAGE you carry to the world.
In flow with Chinobay’s reflection, the artwork is a masterpiece created by legendary artist Trek 6 inspired by his work in South Africa while producing a documentary. Trek spoke about how the sunrises and sunsets in Africa were surreal, thus he began with a beautiful sun design. A wall of drums in South Africa, where they host people from different tribes bringing food, song and art inspired the drums. In Trek’s own words, “Africa is cosmic, colorful, and the center to our past. From it we radiated.”We are honored by his artistic vision.
Sale!
Festival Weekend PLUS Pass
$175.00 – $203.00
October 20-23, 2022 *Must be purchased by LEAF Member* Thursday 4:30pm to Sunday 7pm including overnight tent camping.
Sale!
Festival Weekend Pass
$135.00 – $159.00
October 21-23, 2022 Fri 9am – Sun 7pm. Includes overnight camping
Sale!
Festival Community Pass
$95.00 – $105.00
Fri 4:30pm – 2am, Sat 9am – 2am, Sun 9am – 7pm. No overnights / camping. No Thu. access. Must have alternate overnight accommodations nearby
Sale!
Festival Saturday Pass
$53.00 – $59.00
Saturday, October 22, 2022, 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM. No overnight camping.
Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour
Aug 6 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Nantahala Outdoor Center’s premier Mountaintop Zip Line Tour takes the heart-pounding intensity up a notch when it’s under the night time sky! On dates near a full moon, NOC offers limited trips on this stunning Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour.
Zip under the night sky while taking in the sights and sounds of the calm Blue Ridge Mountains. NOC’s expert aerial guides use glow sticks to signal you, and you use glow sticks to paint the night sky. This adventure truly feels magical.
NOC’s Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour consists of two-miles of mountaintop-to-mountaintop zip lines, culminating in the heart-pounding 1/2 mile Mega Zip underneath the stars – silhouetting stunning 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Highlights
NOC’s Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line is an unparalleled experience of mountaintop-to-mountaintop zips under a full moon.
Glow sticks are used by Aerial Guides to signal you forward through the course.
Participants use glow sticks to paint the star-filled sky.
The 1/2 Mile Mega Zip is the true gem of the trip – offering silhouetted 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the starry night sky.
What to Expect
Please check-in for your trip 30 minutes prior to your reservation at the Adventure Deck. All guests should have prior zip lining experience. Once being fitted for equipment, guests will shuttle to a ground school where they will receive instructions on how to use glow sticks to signal with the Aerial Guides. Guests will be required to demonstrate proficiency in zip lining including breaking.
Grandfather Presents: Ginger Zee
The Beat Goes On: Lake Julian Park Drum Circle
National Park Fee Free Days: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
How It Works
(2) Choose a favorite activity (run, walk, roll, stroll, hike, bike, paddle, climb, float, skate, golf, and everything in between!) to complete individually, or as a family/group/team.
Whether running a 5K, walking your neighborhood, hiking the Mountains to Sea trail, or paddling the French Broad River, Outpace Hunger participants play a vital part in ensuring our WNC neighbors have access to healthy food. 
Much Ado About Nothing
