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.

Tuesday, August 29, 2023
Outdoor County Pools Open
Aug 29 @ 11:30 am – 5:00 pm
Various Buncombe County Outdoor Pools

Gather bathing suits and sunscreen, Buncombe County’s outdoor pools are getting ready to open. The County’s five outdoor pools will open for the 2023 season on May 27. This includes the pools at Cane Creek, Erwin, Hominy Valley, North Buncombe, and Owen.

Outdoor pools will be open on weekends only until area schools are out for the summer. Starting on June 10, Pools will be open seven days a week.

Pool hours are Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Cost for pool entry is $3 per person.

Private lessons at the outdoor pools are available for different age groups from 3-year-olds and up. For more information on lessons or to register for a class, click here.

The pools can also be booked for private parties 14 days in advance and must have a minimum of 50 patrons. Pool bookings are available Monday through Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 6:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Click here for more information on booking pools.

Buncombe County Pool Locations:

  • Cane Creek Pool – 590 Lower Brush Creek Road, Fletcher
  • Erwin Pool – 58 Lees Creek Road, Asheville
  • Hominy Valley Pool – 25 Twin Lakes Road, Candler
  • North Buncombe Pool – 734 Clarks Chapel Road, Weaverville
  • Owen Pool – 117 Stone Drive, Swannanoa

In addition, lap swimming is available year-round at the Buncombe County Schools Aquatics Center, a 10-lane pool managed by the YMCA of Western North Carolina and Buncombe County Schools.

For more information on outdoor pools, visit the County’s pool website or call (828) 348-4770.

PARENTS LOUNGE LEAF Global Experience
Aug 29 @ 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
LEAF Global Experience

LEAF isn’t just for kids! Join us in the Mezzanine while you wait for your youth to finish their class or just to hang out!

Summer Animal Encounters
Aug 29 @ 2:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park
Weekdays only at 2pm

Do you know our staff has a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn about the types of wildlife in the area and their jobs. Some of our best educators have feathers, fur, shells or scales!

Baby Story Time — Weaverville Library
Aug 29 @ 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm
Weaverville Public Library
  Join us for a lively language enrichment story time designed for children ages 4 to 18 months.
LEGO Builders Club–Pack Library
Aug 29 @ 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Pack Memorial Library
  Come down the Pack Memorial Library and play with LEGOs!
Show off your building skills and make new friends with other LEGO maniacs.

Please leave your personal LEGOs at home, because we’ve got plenty.

Asheville Tourists vs. Bowling Green Hot Rods
Aug 29 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

Get BOGO GA Adult Tickets with promo code INGLES when you buy online.

Auditions: Elf: The Musical
Aug 29 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Asheville Community Theatre
ELF: THE MUSICAL
Performance Dates: December 1-23, 2023
Auditions: August 28 & 29, 2023
Callbacks: August 31, 2023
Rehearsals: September 18-November 30, 2023
CREATIVE TEAM
Director: Mark Jones
Music Director: Kristen Johnson Dominguez
Choreographer: Jessica Garland Lowe
ABOUT THE SHOW
Elf: The Musical is a heartwarming and hilarious adaptation of the beloved 2003 holiday film. This enchanting musical follows the journey of Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole who embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father. Through catchy, uplifting songs and zany comedic antics, Elf: The Musical serves a healthy dose of holiday cheer, laughter, and life lessons about identity, family, and the true meaning of Christmas. It’s a magical, festive spectacle guaranteed to light up the holiday season for all ages!
ABOUT AUDITIONS
All roles at ACT are open to anyone in the community! No experience is necessary to audition.
HOW TO PREPARE
An accompanist will not be provided for Elf: The Musical auditions. Please prepare a 16 bar vocal selection (approximately 30-45 seconds) and bring your chosen track with you. This can be a youtube karaoke track cued up to the correct time on your phone, an .mp3 file on a flash drive, etc. We will provide a speaker for playback and will have a laptop available to play your track if required.
WHAT TO WEAR
We encourage you to wear clothing and footwear that you feel comfortable in and can safely dance in. We wish you the very best of luck and are excited to see your performance!
AUDITION TIMES
Times are split by performers seeking ensemble roles and performers seeking principal roles. Please select your preferred time on the audition form.
AUDITION FORM
Fill out the audition form before you arrive and select the time slot that works best for you. Walk-ins will be required to fill out the form when they arrive and will have to wait for the next available time slot. Please be prepared with your calendar to list any conflict from auditions to the final performance.
TEAM TRIVIA NIGHT @ Juicy Lucy’s
Aug 29 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Juicy Lucy's Burger Bar and Grill

Team Trivia– A chance to meet new people and test your knowledge with fun facts and enjoy a light conversation getting to know each other while having a cold glass of beer with delicious burgers and more. Come out and have fun. See you all soon!!

Wednesday, August 30, 2023
Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Aug 30 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy Programs 2023-2024 Season
Aug 30 all-day
Asheville Performing Arts Academy

2023-2024 Season

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy facilitates a life-long appreciation and advocacy of the arts by providing a loving community where students discover the tools needed to navigate life on and off the stage.

Mission

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy is a school based on unlimited opportunities for students to explore their interests in music, dance, and drama.  We foster a love and appreciation for the arts through student-teacher relationships, which encourage and help you to excel at your dream. We offer high quality instruction and educational experiences because we are committed to the art of teaching and the teaching of the arts.  It is our hope to build art and awareness in the community and provide a home for families to pursue their dreams.

With classes for students of all ages, the Asheville Performing Arts Academy is your place to discover the love of music, drama, and dance in your life.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy… where the arts come alive!

November 10-12, 2023

An APAA Cabaret (Company)

 

December 8-10, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Prep)

 

December 15-17, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Community)

February 2-4, 2024

Mean Girls, Jr.

(Middle School Community)

 

February 9-11, 2024

Mean Girls HS Version

(High School Community)

 

March/April 2024

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Homeschool Academy)

April 25-28, 2024

Little Shop of Horros (Company)

 

May 10-12, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Prep)

 

May 17-19, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Community)

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: International Literacy Month
Aug 30 all-day
online
We are currently celebrating Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library gifting 200 million books globally since 1995. In honor of this milestone, seven magical Dolly bookmarks will be hidden in Imagination Library books for enrolled children and families during September’s International Literacy Month.
Lucky recipients who discover the bookmarks will have the chance to receive a video chat, a personalized letter, autographed photo from Dolly, and four Dollywood Theme Park tickets. Additionally, the Dollywood Foundation will donate $2000 on behalf of each chosen child to their local Imagination Library partner, recognizing them as the true heroes of the program.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library impacts the pre­-literacy skills and school readiness of children under the age of 5 in Buncombe County. The program mails a new, free, age-appropriate book to registered children each month until they turn five years old. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library creates a home library of up to 60 books and instills a love of books and reading from an early age. If you have any questions about the program, please send an email to [email protected].

A national panel of educators selects the Imagination Library titles, which include: The Little Engine that Could, Last Stop on Market Street, Violet the Pilot, As an Oak Tree Grows, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Llama Llama Red Pajama, Look Out Kindergarten, here I come, and many more (take a look at all the titles).

Register your child now!

Program Launch and Expansions

Literacy Together became a Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library affiliate in November 2015 with support from the Buncombe Partnership for Children. Through this program, registered children in Buncombe County receive a free book in the mail each month. Their parents also have the opportunity to attend workshops to learn how to build their children’s early literacy skills. Parents in need of literacy assistance are encouraged to receive tutoring through Literacy Together’s adult programming.

The program served 200 children during the 2015/16 fiscal year. The program expanded to serve 400 children in July 2016, and 600 in August 2017. In July 2018, capacity increased to 1,900 thanks to a special allocation in the North Carolina state budget. We’re now serving 4,600 kids in Buncombe County.  

Flat Rock Playhouse: Fall Classes and Auditions for the World Premiere Musical
Aug 30 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

Announcing 8 weeks of Fall Musical Theatre/Theatre Camps for rising K-12th Graders and Adults!

With new content for every program,

returning students will always have the chance to dive into fresh material.

Share what you have learned with a performance at the end of the semester!

Special Olympics Fall Sports Registration is OPEN
Aug 30 all-day
online

Special Olympics Fall sports registration is now OPEN!

Choose your sport and join the fun! Athletes can pick from soccer, bocce, basketball, and tennis. For any questions, please email [email protected]!

Register here!    

Special Olympics Fall Sports Interest Form (office.com)

Youth Theatre Classes w/ Asheville Community Theatre
Aug 30 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre
Asheville Parks + Recreation Youth Fall + Winter athletic programs + sports leagues
Aug 30 @ 8:00 am
Various Locations

Flag Football, $15 per player

Registration ends August 30, games begin September 9

Teams divided by ages 6-8, 9-10, 11-12, and 14-16 practice drills for 30 minutes prior to weekly games with two 20 minute halves at Asheville Middle School on 211 South French Broad Avenue.

Softball Clinic, $10 per player

Registration ends September 3, clinics begin September 11

Instructional five-week clinic with divisions for 6-8, 9-10, and 11-12 year-olds teaches fundamentals through drills and scrimmages at Asheville Middle School on 211 South French Broad Avenue with the intent of building a youth softball program in the future.

Youth Archery Class, $25 per archer

Registration ends October 10, class held each Thursday from October 26-November 16

This introductory course teaches individuals 9-12 years-old range safety and proper shooting techniques.

Winter Basketball League, $35 per player

Registration ends October 31, evaluations begin November 6

Age divisions include 5-6 (instructional), 9-10, 11-12, and 13-15.

Fling the Fletch Junior Disc Golf Open, $5 for beginner and $20 for advanced competitive

A local pro teaches a clinic followed by a nine-hole family fun tournament for beginners ages 8-18 and an 18-hole competitive round for advanced players ages 12-16.

Turkey Tee Off Family Mini Golf Tournament, free

Registration ends November 10, tournament on November 18

Enjoy friendly competition with friends and family at Lakeview Putt and Play on 2245 Hendersonville Road.

 

Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Aug 30 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.

Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.

Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!

Puppet Playtime @ East Asheville Library
Aug 30 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
East Asheville Library

Every Wednesday morning, we open up the children’s activity room to give kids time for free play with puppets. Children must be under the supervision or a parent or guardian.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion
Aug 30 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ALONG SIDE THE BEAUTIFUL NANTAHALA RIVER ON OUR NANTAHALA GORGE EXCURSION! DEPARTING FROM BRYSON CITY, THIS 4½ HOUR ROUNDTRIP EXCURSION CARRIES YOU 44 MILES TO THE NANTAHALA GORGE AND BACK AGAIN ARRIVING AT OUR BRYSON CITY DEPOT.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Onboard dining is available in First Class Seating and selecting from our  First Class Dinning menu options OR you can pre-purchase a box lunch option to make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing!

Itinerary

30m before departure Boarding begins at Bryson City Depot
See schedule for departure time Depart Bryson City, NC
1h 45m Reach top of the line
2h 00m Begin return
2h 30m—3h 30m Layover
3h 30m Depart Layover
4h 30m Arrive at Bryson City Depot
Time from Departure Activity
Preschool Story Time @ Black Mountain Library
Aug 30 @ 10:30 am – 11:15 am
Black Mountain Library

– Join us for a story time designed for children ages 3 to 5 years as we share books, songs, rhymes, and activities.

Preschool Story Time at Weaverville Library
Aug 30 @ 10:30 am – 11:15 am
Weaverville Public Library

Join us for a story time designed for children ages 3 to 5 years as we share books, songs, rhymes, and activities.

For the safety and enjoyment of everyone, our capacity is limited to 30 participating children. TIckets will be available at the desk on the day of the event.

Toddler Story Time at Enka Library
Aug 30 @ 10:30 am – 11:45 am
Enka-Candler Library
  Join us for a fun and interactive story time designed for children ages 18 months to 3 years.

For the safety and enjoyment of everyone, our capacity for storytime is at 40 people. Tickets are available at the front desk.

Kids Storytime at Barnes and Noble
Aug 30 @ 11:00 am
Barnes and Noble

Kids Storytime at Barnes and Noble

Outdoor County Pools Open
Aug 30 @ 11:30 am – 5:00 pm
Various Buncombe County Outdoor Pools

Gather bathing suits and sunscreen, Buncombe County’s outdoor pools are getting ready to open. The County’s five outdoor pools will open for the 2023 season on May 27. This includes the pools at Cane Creek, Erwin, Hominy Valley, North Buncombe, and Owen.

Outdoor pools will be open on weekends only until area schools are out for the summer. Starting on June 10, Pools will be open seven days a week.

Pool hours are Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Cost for pool entry is $3 per person.

Private lessons at the outdoor pools are available for different age groups from 3-year-olds and up. For more information on lessons or to register for a class, click here.

The pools can also be booked for private parties 14 days in advance and must have a minimum of 50 patrons. Pool bookings are available Monday through Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 6:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Click here for more information on booking pools.

Buncombe County Pool Locations:

  • Cane Creek Pool – 590 Lower Brush Creek Road, Fletcher
  • Erwin Pool – 58 Lees Creek Road, Asheville
  • Hominy Valley Pool – 25 Twin Lakes Road, Candler
  • North Buncombe Pool – 734 Clarks Chapel Road, Weaverville
  • Owen Pool – 117 Stone Drive, Swannanoa

In addition, lap swimming is available year-round at the Buncombe County Schools Aquatics Center, a 10-lane pool managed by the YMCA of Western North Carolina and Buncombe County Schools.

For more information on outdoor pools, visit the County’s pool website or call (828) 348-4770.

Summer Animal Encounters
Aug 30 @ 2:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park
Weekdays only at 2pm

Do you know our staff has a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn about the types of wildlife in the area and their jobs. Some of our best educators have feathers, fur, shells or scales!

Lego Club at West Asheville Library
Aug 30 @ 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
West Asheville Library

Asheville Lego Club for ages 5-12. Make new friends and have fun building. Legos will be provided–please leave yours at home.

Preschool Story Time at Pack Memorial Library
Aug 30 @ 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm
Pack Memorial Library
  Join us for a story time designed for children ages 3 to 5 years as we share books, songs, rhymes, and activities.
Asheville Tourists vs. Bowling Green Hot Rods
Aug 30 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

Asheville Tourists vs. Bowling Green Hot Rods

Trivia Night
Aug 30 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Hickory Tavern

Every Wednesday

Trivia Night

Trivia Night at Hickory Tavern
Aug 30 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Hickory Tavern

Trivia Night at Hickory Tavern

Thursday, August 31, 2023
All Together Now: Buncombe County Public Libraries’ Summer Learning Program
Aug 31 all-day
Buncombe County Libraries

No matter your age, background, or abilities, reading and learning together is a great way to build community, kindness, and compassion. This year’s Summer Learning Program theme encourages us all to come together to discover stories that spark our imagination. And there’s no better place to do that than at your public library!

On June 3, celebrate the start of summer with a carnival-inspired Summer Library Fest! Enjoy fun activities for the whole family, including a magician, balloon twisting, face painting, lawn games, bubbles, a live DJ, special activities led by community partners, and so much more! Popcorn and drinks will be served. This free event will be Saturday, June 3 from 10 a.m.-noon at the East Asheville Library.

The 2023 Summer Learning Program runs June 1-August 31 and is open to everyone ages birth-18 years. To join the fun, visit any library location after June 1 to pick up an activity sheet or download one (attached below as a PDF). Complete four activities and return your sheet to the library to get a free book! For a complete list of summer program, check our calendar.

We can’t wait to see you at the library this summer!