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.

Saturday, December 17, 2022
Elf The Musical
Dec 17 @ 7:30 pm
Asheville Community Theatre

Book by: Thomas Meehan & Bob Martin; Music by: Matthew Sklar; Lyrics by: Chad Beguelin; Directed by: Jeff Catanese

 

Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to live joyfully in community as he finds and shares his true identity. Elf The Musical is full of cheer with bright costumes, jolly dancing, and show-stopping songs. This heartwarming holiday tale dazzles and delights all ages!

 

Accessibility:

All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.

Saturday, Dec 17, 2022: ASL-Interpreted Performance

GREENVILLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HOLIDAY AT PEACE
Dec 17 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Concert Hall

Edvard Tchivzhel, conductor
Rachel York, soprano
Jamarcus Gaston, host
Dancers of the International Ballet

 

This December, the music and tradition return! Gather family and friends for all your yuletide favorites and some special surprises.

Holiday at Peace w/ Greenville Symphony Orchestra
Dec 17 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Center Concert Hall

This December, let the Greenville Symphony take you on a journey through NYC led by conductor Edvard Tchivzhel and host Jamarcus Gaston. Feel the holiday spirit from Broadway to Rockefeller Center with festive favorites and special surprises, featuring soprano Rachel York and Dancers of the International Ballet.

Holiday Double Cheer
Dec 17 @ 7:30 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

Book and Lyrics by Jim Christian
Music by Kenneth Plain

Directed by Beth Norris

FIVE CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS

It’s 1954, and five best friends – all named Carol – as they prepare for their annual holiday performance at the local high school on Christmas Eve. Unfortunately, egos, miscommunication, and a power outage turn their quest for perfection into a madcap misadventure that somehow manages to salvage their camaraderie and the spirit of the holidays. Bursting with wonderful new songs and lush arrangements of Christmas classics, this riotous romp is heartwarming and absolutely hilarious.

JINGLEJACKS
Four Canadian lumberjacks, isolated in a cabin, are living out their dreams of becoming internet sensations with their Christmas webcast featuring favorite holiday songs sung in the style of barbershop, classical, hip-hop, smooth jazz, rap, glee club, rock, and many more. And just like every pop star wannabe, they hold contests, sell merchandise, and send shout outs to their loyal fans, “The Jackals.” Through it all, their warmth, charm, and quirkiness provide a big ol’ holiday bear hug loaded with traditional song favorites and fresh new melodies.

HOLIDAY DOUBLE CHEER
Dec 17 @ 7:30 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

Book and Lyrics by Jim Christian
Music by Kenneth Plain

DIRECTED BY CHANDLER SMITH

FIVE CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS

It’s 1954, and five best friends – all named Carol – as they prepare for their annual holiday performance at the local high school on Christmas Eve. Unfortunately, egos, miscommunication, and a power outage turn their quest for perfection into a madcap misadventure that somehow manages to salvage their camaraderie and the spirit of the holidays. Bursting with wonderful new songs and lush arrangements of Christmas classics, this riotous romp is heartwarming and absolutely hilarious.

JINGLEJACKS

Four Canadian lumberjacks, isolated in a cabin, are living out their dreams of becoming internet sensations with their Christmas webcast featuring favorite holiday songs sung in the style of barbershop, classical, hip-hop, smooth jazz, rap, glee club, rock, and many more. And just like every pop star wannabe, they hold contests, sell merchandise, and send shout outs to their loyal fans, “The Jackals.” Through it all, their warmth, charm, and quirkiness provide a big ol’ holiday bear hug loaded with traditional song favorites and fresh new melodies.

Santa Claus Conquers the Martians ​
Dec 17 @ 7:30 pm
Attic Salt Theatre

A battle so epic, it could only be shown in the dumbest way possible!

Acclaimed local playwright and director Rodney Smith has offered to take the usual holiday fare and turn it on its head by adapting this campy and (unintentionally) funny film from the 1960s for our stage. I’d explain the plot, but there’s not much to it outside the title.

Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just looking for an alternative to Christmas schmaltz, you’re going to laugh and cheer at the bumbling Kinmar, Voldar, Dropo and the sexy Mrs. Candi Clause. And isn’t that what the holidays are all about?

The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley
Dec 17 @ 7:30 pm
Be Be Theatre
Welcome back…to Pemberley!

We’ve got TWO shows for you this holiday season!

For one weekend only, we’ll be remounting last year’s production of Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley! Set two years after Pride & Prejudice, this story centers bookish middle sister Mary as the heroine. As members of the family gather to celebrate Christmas together at Pemberley Estate, a newcomer sparks Mary’s hopes for independence, an intellectual match, and possibly even love.

While Miss Bennet depicts the Darcys’ Christmas gathering on the ground floor of Pemberley, The Wickhams takes audiences to the downstairs servants’ quarters for that same celebration. Mrs. Reynolds, a no-nonsense housekeeper; Cassie, an eager new maid; and Brian, an inventive footman, are bustling with preparations for holiday guests. But their work is interrupted by the midnight arrival of an unexpected (and uninvited) guest who creates tension in the household, both upstairs and down. The Wickhams is a charming holiday tale that explores the confines of class and the generosity of forgiveness.

Onstage we have Trinity Smith-Keel, Hanni Muerdter, Emily Tucker, Lauren Otis, Mandy Bean, Zak Hamrick, Jason Williams, Aaron Ybarra, Dana Gillihan, Gabby Bailey, and Desmond Williams.

PLEASE NOTE:

ALL PATRONS must wear an N95 or comparable type face mask that covers nose and mouth at all times when inside the theater, except when actively drinking a beverage. Due to the size of the space, social distancing while seated will not be possible, so mask wearing will be strictly enforced.

Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Dec 17 @ 8:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse
A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas.
                Nov. 25 - Dec. 22

The WNC tradition continues! This show has become a Playhouse favorite with a brand new show every year. Join the merriment of sleigh bells and mistletoe, miracles and Santa Claus, and so much more. Showcasing a cast of Flat Rock favorites, the Flat Rock Playhouse Chorus, and Pat’s School of Dance, this holiday revue promises to leave you feeling merry and bright!

Paint: A Drag Cabaret | Sleigh Belles
Dec 17 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
The Getaway River Bar

Join us at The Getaway River Bar for a night of irreverent comedy and intoxicating performances.

Paint: A Drag Cabaret presents “Sleigh Belles”, an all professional drag troupe with 15 years of experience between them. They’ve excited audiences from the Hudson Valley to Central and Upstate NY and all over Vermont.

Hosted by Pickle, a VT native now local to Asheville. Featuring performances by Indica Gemini, Nova Jynah & Will Pounder. Music and Karaoke brought to you by Ganymede. With special guest yet to be announced.​

December 17
Doors at 8pm – Show 9pm – 11pm​

Meet the performers after the show for photos and sing the night away with Ganymede, spinning all your favorite karaoke hits!

Holiday Liquor and Dance Party ft DJ Marley Carroll
Dec 17 @ 9:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

– AGES 21+
– STANDING ROOM ONLY
– LIMITED NUMBER OF DISCOUNTED EARLY BIRD TICKETS AVAILABLE
– FESTIVE ATTIRE ENCOURAGED

HOLIDAY LIQUOR & DANCE PARTY

Featuring DJ Marley Carroll on the main stage. Holiday drink specials + more!  What started as an epic, ramshackle house party in a garage in west Asheville has become the city’s favorite holiday dance event, and local superstar DJ Marley Carroll has been at the helm for every year of its decade long run. At the aptly-named Holiday Liquor Dance Party, DJ Marley guides costumed partygoers through a marathon holiday DJ set that is frequently surprising and always satisfying. From classic hip-hop and soul to contemporary house and disco, DJ Marley shines by combining the inclusive energy of surefire party selections with an expert level of skill in mixing, sequencing and execution.

Proceeds benefiting Warren Wilson College.

DJ MARLEY CARROLL

Marley Carroll’s unassuming origins as a classically-trained percussionist were shattered after he took top honors at a statewide DJ battle at the age of 17. The experience catapulted him into notoriety and catalyzed his path towards career musicianship. In the intervening years he evolved into a dynamic electronic music producer, world-class turntablist and captivating live performer with three full-length albums, multiple singles and remixes, and countless DJ sets in his cache.

As a DJ, Marley guides packed audiences through expertly-mixed marathon sets that combine impeccable music curation with superb turntable skills. From classic hip-hop and R&B, to soulful house, Afrobeat and disco, to hidden gems of current pop, no era or genre is out-of-bounds. Guided by well-honed musical instincts and a deep love for craft, Marley creates dance music experiences that are frequently surprising and always satisfying.

Activate Your Light: Reiki + Sound Event
Dec 17 @ 10:00 pm – 11:00 pm
One World Brewing West

You may want a mat, chair, and/or a blanket as you sit or lie back and experience this beautiful release. Sound bowls will hum over you as your energy is moved, balanced, and reset.

Activate Your Light: Reiki & Sound Event image
Sunday, December 18, 2022
Asheville Community Theatre Holiday Special Subscription
Dec 18 all-day
online

From 11/15 – 12/31, we’re offering a Holiday Special on our subscriptions! Get tickets at a discounted price, AND get a free ticket voucher for our next play, Native Gardens! Check our website on 11/15 to purchase this limited-time deal!

Biltmore Park Town Square MANNA FOODBANK donations
Dec 18 all-day
REI Co-op and Regal Biltmore Grande

It’s the Season for Giving

Join us in helping to ensure members of the WNC community have enough nutritious food to eat this holiday season. In partnership with MANNA Food Bank, we’re hosting a holiday food drive and requesting donations of healthy, non-perishable food items as well as personal hygiene products. Donations will be delivered to MANNA, weighed, and distributed to those in need. Collection barrels are set up inside the lobbies of REI Co-op and Regal Biltmore Grande through December 19th.

Biltmore Park Town Square: Instagram Photo Contest
Dec 18 all-day
Biltmore Park Town Square
We want everyone to Experience More Joy this season so while you’re out shopping this weekend, find the giant, pre-lit ornament located in the median of Town Square Blvd. Not only is it a festive and fun photo backdrop but just by following a few simple prompts and entering our photo contest, you could win a $100 gift card to one Biltmore Park Town Square business of your choice. So, gather your friends, family, beloved pet, or just yourself and get creative!
How to enter the Instagram Photo Contest:
1. Take a photo at the ornament
2. Follow @biltmoreparktownsq on Instagram by December 18th
3. Post your photo on Instagram
4. Tag your photo using the hashtag #MoreJoyBPTS
*Contest ends December 18th and the winner will be randomly selected and notified on December 21st.
Donate to Greenworks Double your impact with a $50,000 match!
Dec 18 all-day
online

We’ve got so many reasons to give thanks! In each of our program areas, we see ordinary people taking heroic action to protect our home from the pressures of a changing climate.

 

This year-end, we’re highlighting stories that inspired us and sharing how we’re planting seeds to create a climate-resilient future for all of us.

 

With our native pollinators, more is more. The more habitat we plant, the more easily our native pollinators can find shelter and food, the more resilient they become to the challenges posed by pesticides and extreme heat—the more stable our entire food ecosystem becomes.

Give Local: SAHAC and Wicked Weed
Dec 18 all-day
online
GiveLocal
                                                    campaign logo
SAHC is thrilled to be selected again this year to participate in the MountainXpress Give!Local Campaign. Our generous partners at Wicked Weed Brewing will MATCH donations up to $10,000! PLUS, anyone donating at a level of $100 or above will receive a $10 gift card from Wicked Weed. 

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy

WHAT THEY DO: We permanently protect and steward our region’s most beloved natural areas. When you support local land and water conservation, you ensure our lands, our water, our wildlife and our farms will be there for future generations. SAHC is committed to creating and supporting equitable, healthy and thriving communities for everyone in our region.

sahc

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy
Give!Local fundraiser! Nature Center and Weiler Woods for Wildlife
Dec 18 all-day
online w/ WNC Nature Center

From November 1 to December 31, you can support the WNC Nature Center through Mountain Xpress’ Give!Local fundraiser!
Your donation gives you great incentives from the Nature Center and Mountain Xpress, and your gift will be matched by Weiler Woods for Wildlife up to $2,500, with the entire donation coming to the Friends of the WNC Nature Center!
This is a powerful way to support local nonprofits and your community during the holiday season!
Here are a few of the awesome perks of supporting the Friends:
  • Donate $25+ and get a day pass to the WNC Nature Center.
  • Donate $50+ and get an animal sticker and a day pass.
  • Donate $100+ and get an animal tracks necklace, animal sticker, and a day pass.
  • Donate $250+ and get a a guided tour of the Nature Center with animal enrichment for two people, plus the necklace, sticker, and day pass. PLUS, you’ll be entered to win a chance to go on habitat with red pandas Leafa and Phoenix in 2023!
Jingle Bell Trolley Train Run
Dec 18 all-day
Craggy Mountain Line

Santa and Mrs. Clause will be there to see the children! Hot chocolate and cookies will be served for everyone. All aboard!

Purchase tickets on the day of the event. Reservations recommended — seating is limited!

Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt
Dec 18 all-day
Downtown Hendersonville

Downtown Hendersonville
Peppermint Bear takes you on a fun-filled bear hunt in downtown Hendersonville in search of her lost cubs. Hint: the cubs are hiding in downtown businesses.

Once you have found a lost cub in at least 12 of 26 participating businesses and the shopkeeper has punched your brochure, you are eligible to win scavenger hunt prizes. Complete the entry form in the brochure and drop it in Peppermint’s mailbox in front of the Welcome Center, by Dec. 23.

For more details about the Scavenger Hunt, watch this video or stop by the Welcome Center at 201 South Main Street. Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt brochures are available at the Hendersonville Welcome Center.

The Wish Tree- Older Adults + Adults w/ Disabilities and Foster Care Wish Tree
Dec 18 all-day
online

Make A Wish Come True This Holiday Season

Wishes

Ready the hot cocoa and pull out your decorations; it’s time for another holiday season.  As you begin your holiday preparation traditions, remember to visit the Buncombe County Wish Trees! This year we are offering two opportunities to spread cheer throughout the community:

Foster Care Wish Tree

Each year children in foster care and young adults participating in Extended Foster Care in Buncombe County submit a list of wishes they would like for the holidays. Signing up to sponsor a child or young adult is easy! Just follow the link below and select the child or young adult you would like to sponsor. After signing up, you will receive email confirmation that provides a copy of the wish list and all the instructions for drop off. We are taking extra precautions due to COVID-19 so be sure to read the follow up email in its entirety.

CLICK HERE TO SPONSOR A CHILD

Direct Questions to Amber Cook

 [email protected]
(828) 250-5824

The Wish Tree- Fulfilling Wishes of Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities

There are a lot of Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities in Buncombe County in need of connection this holiday season. Show a  Older Adult and or Adult with Disabilities how much you care by sponsoring them this holiday season. Signing up to sponsor a Older Adult and or Adult with Disabilities  is easy. Just follow the link below, select the  Older Adult and or Adult with Disabilities you would like to sponsor, and check your email for confirmation, a reminder of what your Older Adult and or Adult with Disabilities would like this holiday season, and drop off instructions. We are taking extra precautions due to COVID-19 so be sure to read the follow up email in its entirety.

CLICK HERE TO SPONSOR AN OLDER ADULT OR AN ADULT WITH DISABILITIES

A note from HHS

The holidays can be hard for a lot of people, children in foster care, older adults, and adults with disabilities in particular. Holidays are a time when family and friends gather together, show support for one another, and shower each other with love, kindness, and generosity. Each year, we have an opportunity to deliver the holiday spirit to children in foster care, older adults, and adults with disabilities through our wish tree gift drives. The expressions of joy and excitement on our clients faces as we deliver their gifts reminds us of the true meaning of the holiday season, connection. Yes, the gifts are nice. But the real gift is knowing that someone loves and cares. That is what we deliver to our clients. Thank you in advance for your generous sponsorship.

National Gingerbread House Display
Dec 18 @ 9:00 am
The Omni Grove Park Inn

The 30th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition will be held in-person at The Omni Grove Park Inn on Monday, November 21, 2022 with an Awards Ceremony following in the Grand Ballroom. Competition judging will be conducted in-person and is closed to the public. The competition’s esteemed panel of judges, including Chef Carla Hall, will announce a winner on November 21st at the ResortAll entries will be on display at The Omni Grove Park Inn (290 Macon Ave., Asheville) throughout the holiday season.

The official 2022 Gingerbread display begins on Monday, November 28, 2022 and will continue through Monday, January 2, 2023. Guests not staying at the Resort are invited to view the display after 6:00 p.m. on Sundays or anytime Monday through Thursday, based on parking availability and excluding holidays and the following dates: December 23, 24, 25, 30, 31 and January 1. All Fridays and Saturdays are reserved for registered resort guests and those that have confirmed dining reservations. Display access is subject to hotel capacity, including pedestrian traffic. Please note that only Registered Resort Pets will be permitted. No outside pets will be allowed.

HOLIDAY PARKING PROGRAM

Since the inception of the Holiday Parking Partner program in 2013, we have been honored to contribute over $680,000 to not-for-profit partners in Western North Carolina. During the Fall & Holiday season, there is no complimentary parking on property. Starting Saturday, October 1st, guests can drive up to the main entrance at The Omni Grove Park Inn and be assisted by a valet for $35 for day guests and $30 for overnight guests. Self-parking for day guests is $25 and $20 for overnight guests. A portion of the parking proceeds is donated to the community in support of local not-for-profit organizations.

“Sounds of the Holidays” at Asheville Airport
Dec 18 @ 10:00 am
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is pleased to welcome regional school choral groups and local musicians to the airport as part of our annual Sounds of the Holidays program. The musicians and students will perform festive music for the enjoyment of those arriving and departing from AVL this holiday season.
Following is a schedule of choral performances:

Thursday, December 15

11:20am East McDowell Middle School Chorus

Friday, December 16

12:45pm Erwin Combined Choirs

Following is a schedule of Music in the Airport performances:

Mike Anderson

Mondays in December 10:30am

Thursday December 15 5:30pm

Phil Okrend

Thursdays in December 11:00am

Saturday December 15 5:30pm

Joseph Olschner

Fridays in December 10:00am and 2:00pm

Saturdays in December at 11am

Bill Cozzens-Bryant

Tuesdays in December 11:00am

Wednesdays in December 10:30am

Jenna Jaffe

Sunday December 18 11:30am

Saturday December 24 2:00PM

Sunday December 25 10:00am

Deck The Trees “Let Heaven and Nature Sing!”
Dec 18 @ 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Monte Vista Hotel

Come experience the charm of Black Mountain and get in the Christmas spirit. You will discover beautifully decorated Christmas trees at the Monte Vista Hotel and in stores and businesses throughout Black Mountain and the Swannanoa Valley area. Each tree, uniquely decorated around the theme: Let Heaven and Nature Sing, will be created by businesses, organizations, or individuals to help raise funds for the Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministry Fuel Fund. This fund keeps our neighbors warm during the winter and raised an amazing $41,330 in 2021. Let’s beat that this year! Share in the Christmas spirit and support your favorite tree by donating with cash, check, or online by clicking the trees image below.
Deck The Trees presents: Let Heaven and Nature Sing!, December 1, 2022 – January 2, 2023 Come experience the charm of Black Mountain and get in the Christmas spirit. You will discover 35 (and possibly more) beautifully decorated Christmas trees situated at the Monte Vista Hotel and in stores and businesses throughout Black Mountain and the Swannanoa Valley area.

Each tree, uniquely decorated around the theme: A Black Mountain Christmas, will be created by businesses, organizations, or individuals to help raise funds for the Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministry Fuel Fund. Come join us! Share in the Christmas spirit and support your favorite tree by donating with cash, check, or on-line at svcmblackmountain.org.

Holiday Windows Walking Tour
Dec 18 @ 10:00 am
Downtown Asheville
Many downtown businesses have decorated their windows for the holiday season. Follow along our Holiday Windows Walking Tour as you shop for the perfect gift for everyone on your list and support small businesses.

Charmed Asheville is offering a special 10% discount to people who mention the Holiday Windows Walking Tour (some exclusions apply).

Also, are you have a holiday sale, event or promotion? We’re happy to share through our social media, newsletters and press releases.

All you need to do is fill out the brief form found here.

Santa Claus at Carolina Ace Hardware
Dec 18 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Carolina Ace Hardware

Immerse yourself in a Winter Wonderland with Santa and his elves and of course, Santa’s reindeer at Carolina Ace Hardware. Bring the whole family and take your Christmas pictures in the magical Christmas display in the Garden Center. Free to the public. Bring your cameras.

 

Winter Wonderland at The Grove Arcade
Dec 18 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Grove Arcade

see the beautiful holiday decorations and lights. Plus find lots of great gifts at the many local shops and businesses
Winter Wonderland at The Grove Arcade
Dec 18 @ 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
The Grove Arcade

see the beautiful holiday decorations and lights. Plus find lots of great gifts at the many local shops and businesses
FREE Photos with Santa at Asheville Outlets
Dec 18 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Asheville Outlets

Located in the Food Court at the Santa set. Visitors receive one FREE 4” by 6” photo and digital download of a single image (while supplies last). For more information, visit ShopAshevilleOutlets.com.

Home for the Holidays
Dec 18 @ 12:00 pm
Main Street Hendersonville

Oh, there’s no place like Visit Hendersonville, NC’s Home for the Holidays! 🎄
Kick off the season with their Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring Christmas songs performed by Laura Laughter and Tim Levene. Sip on hot drinks and snack on tasty treats while you await Santa’s arrival, then count down as he lights up Main Street! 🎅
And the festivities don’t end there! Find excitement for the entire family in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains with carriage rides, Santa visits, greenery markets, a Christmas parade, holiday-themed performances at the Flat Rock Playhouse and more through New Year’s Day.
Check out the full schedule of featured events here: https://www.visitnc.com/…/x4iM/home-for-the-holidays1-2…
A Christmas Story
Dec 18 @ 2:00 pm
HART Theatre

The Main Stage Theatre at HART
Directed by Erin McCarson

Humorist Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the midwest in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher and even Santa Claus himself at Higbee’s Department Store. The consistent response: “You’ll shoot your eye out!” All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here, including the family’s temperamental exploding furnace; Scut Farkas, the school bully; the boys’ experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin; Ralphie’s father winning a lamp shaped like a woman’s leg in a net stocking; Ralphie’s fantasy scenarios and more. A Christmas Story is destined to become a theatrical holiday perennial.