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.

Thursday, May 26, 2022
Gluten-free comedy open mic at Ginger’s Revenge  
May 26 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Ginger's Revenge  

  • Gluten-free comedy open mic at Ginger's Revenge
  • 6:00pm – 8:00pm

    Open mic comedy every Thursday from 6-8pm at Ginger’s Revenge Tasting Room.

    Rotating hosts each week Clay Jones, James Burks and Katy Hudson

    No cover
    Signup starts at 5:30, and signup order will not necessarily be show order. Each comic gets 5 mins of stage time

Cali Sober, an Alcohol-Free Comedy Show Featuring Paul Hooper
May 26 @ 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Blue Ridge Hemp

Cali Sober is a monthly comedy show featuring sober and soberish comedians from Asheville and all over the country!

Featuring Cody Hughes, Morgan Bost, Katy Hudson and Paul Hooper

ages 18+

Tickets $15, VIP $22

VIP tickets include two CBD pre rolled joints that you can smoke at the show!

SLICE OF LIFE COMEDY OPEN MIC Featuring James Harrod Hosted by Cody Hughes
May 26 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel--Pulp Lounge
James Harrod is a stand up comedian originally from Raleigh now living in Asheville, North Carolina. In addition to hosting the Comedy Freakshow every Tuesday night at The Odditorium, he also performs around the east coast opening for comedians like Sean Patton, Yedoye Travis,  Michael Palascak, Brandie Posey and many more. Out of all the comics in his scene he was voted most needy and desperate for attention.
Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic & Feature Comedy at Pulp Lounge
May 26 @ 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Pulp Lounge

Thursday May 26, 2022Slice of Life Comedy presents the return of comedy nights at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge in Asheville, NC.

(Slice of Life Comedy has been producing quality, premier comedy shows at the Orange Peel for over 10 years)
Pulp Lounge is located in the Orange Peel’s basement at 103 Hilliard Ave, around the corner from the Box Office entrance

Hosted by one of Asheville’s beloved comics,Cody Hughes Featuring James Harrod:James Harrod is a stand up comedian originally from Raleigh now living in Asheville, North Carolina. In addition to hosting the Comedy Freakshow every Tuesday night at The Odditorium, he also performs around the east coast opening for comedians like Sean Patton, Yedoye Travis, Michael Palascak, Brandie Posey and many more. Out of all the comics in his scene he was voted most needy and desperate for attention.

Show Time: May 26, 8:30p (Doors at 8p— music from Buzz Radio Asheville “All Asheville Music and Comedy, All the Time”)

Ticket: $15 Tickets at theorangepeel.net and door

Craft Drink specials & snacks available
[Comics sign up to perform at door. Performing comics get in free (+free year membership). New-to-venue performers get 3-5m. Regular comics get as much time as available. Look for light, check with Cody when you get there for time and lineup]

Contact Michele Scheve at [email protected] for more info/any questions or sign up early or request a future feature comedy (paid 20m) spot.

*Pulp is one of Asheville’s finest craft cocktail lounges, located underneath The Orange Peel. This self acclaimed Bourbon bar has 284 different fine bourbon/whiskey selections, which we’re almost sure it’s the most in the entire state. Bourbon connoisseurs from thousands of miles can’t believe their eyes, but don’t worry, The Pulp has a little bit of everything.

Friday, May 27, 2022
White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
May 27 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee CompanyLazy Otter OutfittersMurphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

Brothers and Sisters Like These Benefit Performance
May 27 @ 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Veterans Healing Farm

Veterans Healing Farm (VHF) is excited to announce a benefit
performance of Brothers and Sisters Like These, Friday, May 27, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the
Veterans Healing Farm, 38 Yale Rd., Hendersonville, NC. There is no fee to attend but
donations are welcome.
Brothers and Sisters Like These is a writing group founded by Vietnam combat veterans at the
Charles George VA Medical Center in 2014 to find their voices the war had taken from them. It
has since included veterans from all our wars and uses poetry and essay writing to help them
heal from past trauma.
The Veterans Healing Farm is a 501c3 nonprofit founded in 2014 to enhance the mental,
emotional, and physical well-being of our nation’s veterans through agri-therapy and
community.
This is an outdoor event so please plan on bringing a lawn chair or blanket to the Farm. For more
information, please contact the VHF at 828-595-6111 or [email protected]

Saturday, May 28, 2022
White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
May 28 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee CompanyLazy Otter OutfittersMurphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

Sunset Yoga Hike in Asheville
May 28 @ 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Detailed Directions Shared After Booking

Imagine moving through your sun salutation on a mountaintop as the sky glows all around you (or stay in savasana for the full hour! No one here will judge you!) Marvel at nature’s light show, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and revel in the expansiveness of wide open spaces. This is our favorite version of our classic Yoga Hike here in Asheville and is offered in season (typically May – October) with start times planned approximately 2hrs prior to sunset. This mountaintop is on all of the “best places to view the sunset in Asheville” lists and we can’t wait to share it with you!

Want a more exclusive experience? Reserve a private Sunset Yoga Hike any day of the week with advanced notice.

Sunday, May 29, 2022
Sunset Yoga Hike in Asheville
May 29 @ 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Detailed Directions Shared After Booking

Imagine moving through your sun salutation on a mountaintop as the sky glows all around you (or stay in savasana for the full hour! No one here will judge you!) Marvel at nature’s light show, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and revel in the expansiveness of wide open spaces. This is our favorite version of our classic Yoga Hike here in Asheville and is offered in season (typically May – October) with start times planned approximately 2hrs prior to sunset. This mountaintop is on all of the “best places to view the sunset in Asheville” lists and we can’t wait to share it with you!

Want a more exclusive experience? Reserve a private Sunset Yoga Hike any day of the week with advanced notice.

Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Disclaimer Stand-Up Lounge Comedy Open Mic
Jun 1 @ 8:00 pm
Asheville Music Hall

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic in downtown Asheville

Open Mic Disclaimer Stand-Up Lounge
Jun 1 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Asheville Music Hall

May be an image of ‎one or more people and ‎text that says '‎DISCLAIMER THE LOUNGE STAND-UP TM אלי Wednesdays 8pm ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL 31 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC‎'‎‎

Comedy Open Mic at Asheville Music Hall in downtown Asheville. Every Weds. 8pm. Doors and comic sign up at 7pm. Free

Thursday, June 2, 2022
White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
Jun 2 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee CompanyLazy Otter OutfittersMurphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

Gluten-free comedy open mic at Ginger’s Revenge  
Jun 2 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Ginger's Revenge  

  • Gluten-free comedy open mic at Ginger's Revenge
  • 6:00pm – 8:00pm

    Open mic comedy every Thursday from 6-8pm at Ginger’s Revenge Tasting Room.

    Rotating hosts each week Clay Jones, James Burks and Katy Hudson

    No cover
    Signup starts at 5:30, and signup order will not necessarily be show order. Each comic gets 5 mins of stage time

Stand Up Comedy in The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement
Jun 2 @ 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Pulp Lounge

What: Stand up Comedy at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge
When: Thursday 6.2.22. 8p-11p
Where: The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $15 (available at door or theorangepeel.net)
For More info: contact Michele at [email protected]
*** If time allows, there will be a (3m ea) comedy open mic after the show***
Stand up comedy featuring Kylie Vincent with special guest feature Andy Sanford with Tamar Rubin & Petey Smith McDowell. Hosted by Cody Hughes
Special guest: Andy Sandford is a comedian who got funny in Atlanta, moved to New York City, established himself as one if NY’s top tier comics and moved back to Atlanta in 2021 to record his latest album with 800lbs Gorilla Records. It’s called “Basket Case” and comes out June 10th. Andy has performed his jokes on Conan and The Late Late Show with James Corden. Andy’s debut album, Me the Whole Time; was one of Splitsider’s “9 Best Standup Albums of The Year.“ His hour special, “Shameful Information,” is currently featured on Amazon Prime. Sandford even played an animated version of himself on Adult Swim’s Aqua Teen Hunger Force. The Village Voice called him, “one of New York’s comedic gems;” a nice gesture, but not enough to keep him in New York. Andy is out of Atlanta now (sorry NY).
Kylie Vincent is a 22 year old stand-up, activist, and theater artist in New York City, currently traveling with her solo show BIRD and performing stand-up across the United States. New York audiences say Vincent is “a hilarious, thoughtful, badass” and BIRD is “honest, hilarious and tear jerking.” Vincent has sold out her solo show in Los Angeles (Lyric Hyperion Theatre), Austin (Fallout Theatre), & as a guest artist at LSU & Sewanee University. Other favorite credits include Adult Swim, NBC, Amsterdam Tour & headlining in Atlanta.
Host Cody Hughes is a comedian who cut his teeth in Chicago and Atlanta. He is now based out of West North Carolina and tours the Southeast. He has opened for Lewis Black, John Oliver and Maria Bamford among others and hosts the regular Slice of Life Comedy shows at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge.

Friday, June 3, 2022
White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
Jun 3 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee CompanyLazy Otter OutfittersMurphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

Chaotic Comedy at Blue Ridge Hemp
Jun 3 @ 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Blue Ridge Hemp

Chaotic Comedy is a night of Improv, Sketch, Magic and Stand Up Comedy all in one show!!! Anything can happen
Lineup: TBA
ages 18+
BYOB
Tickets $15

Getaway Comedy; Kevin McCaffrey
Jun 3 @ 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Getaway River Bar

Kevin McCaffrey is a comic, actor and writer living in NYC. He made his network TV debut on The Late Show with David Letterman in 2013, after which he was hired as the show’s warm-up comic. He was a regular for 7 years on truTV Presents: World’s Dumbest, won on seasons 2 & 3 on truTV’s Comedy Knockout, and was a featured cast member on VH1’s I Love the 2000s and a series of shows on the WWE Network.

Kevin’s stand up album “Nice & Drunk” was named Sirius XM Comedy album of the month, was #1 on both iTunes and Amazon comedy charts, and has over 2 million streams.

He hosts Celebrate!, a weekly interview show on Sirius XM channel 99, and the Sex and the Cidiots & The Bridgerton Bros podcasts. His videos have over 25 million views on Instagram and TikTok, where he has 200,000 followers.

“Very Funny” – David Letterman, host of the Late Show
“McCaffrey’s set will go beyond monologue one-liners, but expect the same sort of laid-back persona of a late night talk show host.” – New Stage City, Chicago

“My number one favorite on truTV is Kevin McCarthy. He is really cute and funny and he never fails to make me laugh.” – Dux411, a nice commenter who kind of knows Kevin’s name

ages 21+ (must have ID with you)

Tickets $15 advance, $18 day of

Saturday, June 4, 2022
Land Trust Day–June is Conservation Month
Jun 4 all-day
Various Locations in Asheville Area

Land Trust Day falls on the first Saturday in June to coincide with the annual National Trails Day.  Conservation land trusts like Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy play a critical role in helping to conserve land for public enjoyment as well as privately-owned preserves that protect viewsheds and wildlife corridors near national trails. Land trusts work to protect and manage a wide variety of important land and water resources, including habitat for rare plants and animals, farmland, and sources of drinking water for millions of people.

We are so grateful to local businesses who recognize the importance of this work and have stepped up with their support for SAHC on Land Trust Day – Saturday, June 4!

Shop and Dine to Support Conservation

Mast General Store

is donating 20% of proceeds from sales on Saturday, June 4 to support conservation. The Asheville and Waynesville stores will be supporting Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy. Stop by to stock up on gear, say ‘Hi’ to SAHC volunteers, and be sure to thank them for supporting Land Trust Day! As a general store, Mast Store offers a variety of goods from fashion to fried chicken cookbooks and toffee to tents.

Second Gear

is donating 10% of proceeds from sales on Saturday, June 4 — PLUS they have chosen Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy as the nonprofit partner for the month of June. Second Gear supports a new nonprofit each month by donating 1% of all sales! Second Gear is your source for quality, affordable outdoor gear, with an ever-changing selection of used and new equipment, apparel, footwear, & accessories.

Laughing Seed

is donating 5% of proceeds from sales on Saturday, June 4. Laughing Seed is Asheville’s iconic vegetarian restaurant located on historic Wall Street, voted #1 as best vegetarian in Asheville with a full bar and outdoor dining on their covered patio.

Jack of the Wood

is donating 5% of proceeds from sales on Saturday, June 4. Jack of the Wood is a Celtic pub in downtown Asheville! They feature classical pub dishes, 18-rotating taps of craft brew, and a wide selection of whiskeys.

Experience Outdoors

Asheville Hiking Tours

is a Western North Carolina-owned and operated outdoor tour guide, proud to be giving back to local land conservancies. They recognize and value the need to conserve the Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.

Shoji Spa

is an unpretentious and unique destination spa nestled on a mountainside minutes from the vibrancy of downtown Asheville. Along with traditional Japanese bathing and soaking, in completely private outdoor salt tubs, guests enjoy spa-style showers, first-class massage therapy, nature setting and sounds, locally sourced spa products.

For Love of Beer and Mountains

Wicked Weed Brewing

donates 10% of ALL sales of the popular “Appalachia” Session IPA to support conservation with Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy – part of their Beers that Build program. Check back for other updates on this very special partnership!

Highland Brewing Company

donates a portion of proceeds from seasonal beer release parties to Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, and supports SAHC through the “Mountain Chaser” brew – part of their Pints with a Purpose program. Check back for more updates on our special partnership!

Details

Date:
June 4
Event Categories:
Event Tags:

 

Land Trust day sponsor logos

White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6
Jun 4 all-day
Western North Carolina Mountains

Hiking Challenge 6 is here! In Conserving Carolina’s and WPA’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 6, you get to explore the places you’re helping to protect—and they’re amazing! We invite you to take eight hikes on lands that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect, enhance, or open to the public.

This challenge includes two all-new Conserving Carolina trails with gorgeous views! Plus, you can see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, lakes and waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, expanded trails in Bracken Mountain Preserve, and a beautiful creek in the Green River Game Lands. There’s also the all-time favorite Bearwallow Mountain with its 360-degree views over the mountains and countryside we’re working to protect.

These hikes will take you to some of our region’s “greatest hits,” as well as hidden gems where you may have the woods to yourself. If you’re into mountain biking, you have the option of biking some of these trails. And if you love to swim, fish, or just be near the water, five of these hikes take you to rivers, lakes, or waterfalls.

And the Hikes Are…

Drumroll please…. Here are the 8 hikes for this new Hiking Challenge! You can find more information and links to the full hike descriptions below. Which one will you do first?

  1. Bearwallow Mountain
  2. Wildcat Rock Trail – Extended
  3. Bracken Preserve
  4. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Fawn Lake and Lake Julia
  5. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Holly Road to Hooker Falls
  6. Green River Game Lands: Green River Cove Trail
  7. Whitewater Falls
  8. Youngs Mountain Trail
  9. LOG YOUR HIKES
    • Log each hike as you complete it. You can check your progress in this roster.
    • You can do the hikes at your own pace. You can take weeks, months, or over a year—whatever works for you.
    • You must complete all your hikes before the start of the next Hiking Challenge. We launch a new challenge about every two years.
    • Only hikes that you’ve done after Oct. 1, 2021 count toward Hiking Challenge 6.
    • You can complete the hikes on your own or as a group.
    • Please share about your hikes with the hashtag #whitesquirrelhikingchallenge (optional)
    • Feel free to share about your hikes and connect with other hikers in our Facebook group, the Conserving Carolina Community.

    The Hiking Challenge is free and open to all, but you must be a Conserving Carolina member to become a Hiking Challenge 6 Champion. If you are a member and you complete all 8 hikes, you will earn your White Squirrel Patch and exclusive perks from local businesses that support conservation, including Appalachian Coffee CompanyLazy Otter OutfittersMurphy’s Naturals, and YAM Yoga and Massage. Most importantly, you get to experience eight great places and deepen your personal connection to land conservation.

The Flying Squirrel Ten Miler
Jun 4 @ 7:30 am
Downtown Asheville

image

Enjoy ASHEVILLE’S ABSOLUTE BEST ROAD RUNNING. Spectators, sponsors, hype, and incredible energy along with spectacular mountain views.

WHERE: Participants will START and FINISH near downtown Asheville, but will run up and down the tree lined streets of North Asheville nearby the historic Omni Grove Park Inn and the Governor’s Western Residence. Course Description.

ABOUT US: Brought to you by the same race organizers that bring you the Asheville Turkey Trot (now in its 20+ year) and the Shut-In Ridge Trail Run (now in its 40+ year).

The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) permanently protects and stewards our region’s most beloved natural areas. Since 1974, over 80,000 acres of unique plant and animal habitat, clean water sources, farmland, scenic beauty, and places for people to enjoy outdoor recreation have been permanently protected in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. SAHC is committed to creating and supporting equitable, healthy and thriving communities for everyone in our region.

We value our local Western North Carolina community and are committed to giving back. A portion of our race proceeds go towards our charity partner for that year. For the inaugural Flying Squirrel Ten Miler we are proud to be supporting a Western North Carolina based non-profit who is helping to conserve the endangered Carolina Flying Squirrel. The Carolina Flying Squirrel is a subspecies of the Northern Flying Squirrel and requires high elevation habitat to thrive. Read more about the Carolina Flying Squirrel here: https://www.fws.gov/southeast/wildlife/mammals/carolina-northern-flying-squirrel/

Comedy with Drew Morgan & DJ Lewis at Beauty Academy
Jun 4 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Asheville Beauty Academy

Drew Morgan (Comedy Central) and DJ Lewis (CMT) are coming to touch your hearts and butts (with permission) at Asheville Beauty Academy!

Co-hosts of the world wide phenomenon Into the Abiscuit Podcast, DJ Lewis and Drew Morgan are gonna so some stand up and change the world.

You know us, you hate us, and you want to die from laughing – well this night is for you. Come on out, y’all.

Drew Morgan is the first person in his family to go into comedy. His act has been described as “Mark Twain on acid,” and that pretty much gets at it. Hailing from Sunbright, Tennessee, which has a population of about 597 good people and 3 really shitty ones, he was raised by a preacher and a librarian. This explains Drew’s curiosity and constant state of existential crisis.

Drew has been featured on MTV, Comedy Central and ABC’s the View. He tours nationally with the wellRED comedy tour and is the Co-author of the book “The Liberal Redneck Manifesto.” He is a good dancer.

D.j. Lewis is the co host of Into the Abiscuit and travels around the south doing comedy. His comedy is much like a canned meat, not very pretty to look at, understood mostly by poor people, and best when baked.

A rapper, actor, singer and part time astronaut – DJ has been featured on CMT and is the only man to have ever owned a space possum.

hosted by TBA

ages 21+ (must have ID with you)

Tickets $18

Sunday, June 5, 2022
Women’s Paddle Fest
Jun 5 @ 12:00 am – 2:00 pm
Nantahala Outdoor Center

womens-paddlefest-group-shot

Join a group of like-minded female paddlers for a three-day paddle festival, hosted by inspirational paddler Anna Levesque! This festival is all about fostering community by connecting, sharing, paddling, and supporting each other on the river. Trips will be offered on different rivers representing a range of skill levels, and are open to all women in all watercraft!

Donations and registration fees benefit the Shannon Christy Memorial Fund, an organization that supports non-profits focused on women’s empowerment, and also benefits the Live Like Maria Fund.

2022 EVENT SCHEDULE

Schedule is subject to change and will be updated here.

Asheville Honey Festival/Black Jar International Honey Contest
Jun 5 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Salvage Station

If you love honey, beekeeping, saving our planet, and summer fun next to the French Broad River this event is for you.
Join the Center for Honeybee Research and Shanti Elixirs for Asheville’s First Annual Honey Festival at the Salvage Station on Sunday, June 5th from 12-5pm.

During this event the Center for Honeybee Research will also hold their 11th annual Black Jar International Honey Contest, with a grand prize of $5,500.00.

This will be a family friendly event with live music, vendors, non profit booths promoting the environment, pollinators and their habitats, and other important organizations supporting the world we live in.

Festival attendees will also be able to taste honey from all over the globe and watch the judges determine the “World’s Best Tasting Honey”.

Monday, June 6, 2022
Freshen Up Comedy Open Mic
Jun 6 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
5 Walnut

Every Monday Cameron Davis and Morgan Bost host Freshen Up at 5 Walnut Wine Bar.

Stand up comedy open mic with a focus on new material.

Bring your best new jokes each week. You don’t need a new set but you need to try at least one new bit.
Last Monday of every month will be a booked showcase of that months favorite performers

no cover
5 Walnut Wine Bar
ages 18+

Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Drag Bingo with Calcutta
Jun 7 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Asheville Beauty Academy

Join us every first and third Tuesday of each month for Drag Bingo! Hosted by the amazingly beautiful inside and out Calcutta! Try out classic games and also some not so conventional games. Play for fun or play to win, the prizes are always topped with laughter. Ages 21+.

Wednesday, June 8, 2022
Disclaimer Stand-Up Lounge Comedy Open Mic
Jun 8 @ 8:00 pm
Asheville Music Hall

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic in downtown Asheville

Open Mic Disclaimer Stand-Up Lounge
Jun 8 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Asheville Music Hall

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Comedy Open Mic at Asheville Music Hall in downtown Asheville. Every Weds. 8pm. Doors and comic sign up at 7pm. Free

Thursday, June 9, 2022
Gluten-free comedy open mic at Ginger’s Revenge  
Jun 9 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Ginger's Revenge  

  • Gluten-free comedy open mic at Ginger's Revenge
  • 6:00pm – 8:00pm

    Open mic comedy every Thursday from 6-8pm at Ginger’s Revenge Tasting Room.

    Rotating hosts each week Clay Jones, James Burks and Katy Hudson

    No cover
    Signup starts at 5:30, and signup order will not necessarily be show order. Each comic gets 5 mins of stage time

Game Room Stand up Comedy at Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co
Jun 9 @ 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co

Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic and Feature Comedy at Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co Game Room Comedy Show (must be 18+)
Cocktails, taps & menu available while you laugh the night away to some of the areas best Standup Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! Comedy Open Mic plus at least Three Professional featured performers.

Open mic comics signup at door get 3-5m. [Free entry for performing comics, free pizza at comics table]

For more info contact Michele at [email protected]

Thursdays in May 2022 7:30p-till, 18+, $12Doors 6:30p: [Music before show provided by Buzz Radio Asheville, “All Asheville Music & Comedy, All the Time.”]

6/9 Hosted by Morgan Bost
Featuring: Becca Steinhoff, Moira Goree, Rigel Pawlak & Delise Nicholas

Game Room Standup Comedy at Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co
Jun 9 @ 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co

Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic and Feature Comedy at Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co Game Room Comedy Show (must be 18+)
Cocktails, taps & menu available while you laugh the night away to some of the areas best Standup Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! Comedy Open Mic plus at least Three Professional featured performers.

Open mic comics signup at door get 3-5m. [Free entry for performing comics, free pizza at comics table]

For more info contact Michele at [email protected]

Thursdays in May 2022 7:30p-till, 18+, $12Doors 6:30p: [Music before show provided by Buzz Radio Asheville, “All Asheville Music & Comedy, All the Time.”]

6/9 Hosted by Morgan Bost
Featuring: Becca Steinhoff, Moira Goree, Rigel Pawlak & Delise Nicholas