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.

Sunday, January 8, 2023
Henderson County Tourism Grant Program Now Open
Jan 8 all-day
online

 

The Henderson County Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA) offers an annual grant program to benefit tourism-related businesses and non-profit organizations as a way to build Henderson County into an even stronger tourist destination — the better you are, the better we are! The yearly grant program accepts applications from December through January, with selections and disbursements being made in the spring (see timeline below for exact dates).

4 info sessions were held leading up to the grant request period.

1) Watch a recording of the General Info Meeting
2) Watch a recording of the Destination Enhancement Grant Info Meeting
3) Watch a recording of the Marketing Grant Info Meeting
4) Watch a recording of the Event Grant Info Meeting

Grants are awarded in 3 categories: Marketing Grants, to promote your business or event; Event Grants, to support the operations budget of the event; and Destination Enhancement Grants, which includes building new or improving existing assets.

The HCTDA is empowered to award grant funding through state tax legislation using occupancy tax collection monies, and decisions on grant recipients are made by a Grants Committee that is comprised of HCTDA Board members and representatives from the community.

Find out if your organization or project is eligible for funding at the links below. With additional questions, please contact the Asset & Event Development Coordinator, Amy Boswell.

Nantahala Outdoor Center 2023 Adventure travel trips
Jan 8 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.

Blue Ridge Bicycle Club: Weekly B-Pace Ride
Jan 8 @ 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
various locations

Time & loc varies, typical avg spd 15-17mph, dist 30-50mi. For weekly emails, update your profile: Hover on your name upper right; select “Profile”; under “Your website functions” click “Interests”; then check “B Pace Rides”. Leader [email protected]

Kolo Bike Park $10 Sunday Fundays
Jan 8 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Kolo Bike Park

Join us on Sundays this Fall and Winter for $10 to ride Kolo Bike Park on over 125 acres beside Downtown Asheville!  Enjoy pump tracks, skills area, trails, skinnys, berms, table tops and much more! Littleville is also included for our youngest shredders. Rentals not included.

Reservations not required. Call for conditions: 828.225.2921.

Monday, January 9, 2023
2023 School Garden Grants
Jan 9 all-day
online

Extension Master GardenerSM Volunteers of Buncombe County are happy to announce for the sixteenth year we are offering School Garden Grants to Asheville City and Buncombe County public schools, including state charter schools.

Growing Vegetables at Childcare Centers_photo by NC State Extension
Learning to plant veggie seeds

We provide a notice of the application period along with instructions to all school principals, elementary through senior high. Additional information is available on our websitebuncombemastergardener.org, where you can learn more about the guidelines for receiving a grant and get online access to the 2023 School Garden Grants Application.

All applications must be completed online. Completed applications will be accepted beginning January 9, 2023, and must be submitted no later than 9 p.m. on February 3, 2023. If you have any questions, please call the Extension Office at 828-255-5522.

We are proud of our partnership with Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools. Since 2007, we have awarded 52 School Garden Grants totaling over $45,000. These grants have involved more than 16,500 students and hundreds of teachers, parents, and community volunteers.

School gardens grow more than plants. They grow imagination and creativity. They make math and science come alive, and they build community. We hope your school will join us in 2023.

Click on the link below to review the guidelines for school garden grants:
Guidelines for 2023 School Garden Grants

Henderson County Tourism Grant Program Now Open
Jan 9 all-day
online

 

The Henderson County Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA) offers an annual grant program to benefit tourism-related businesses and non-profit organizations as a way to build Henderson County into an even stronger tourist destination — the better you are, the better we are! The yearly grant program accepts applications from December through January, with selections and disbursements being made in the spring (see timeline below for exact dates).

4 info sessions were held leading up to the grant request period.

1) Watch a recording of the General Info Meeting
2) Watch a recording of the Destination Enhancement Grant Info Meeting
3) Watch a recording of the Marketing Grant Info Meeting
4) Watch a recording of the Event Grant Info Meeting

Grants are awarded in 3 categories: Marketing Grants, to promote your business or event; Event Grants, to support the operations budget of the event; and Destination Enhancement Grants, which includes building new or improving existing assets.

The HCTDA is empowered to award grant funding through state tax legislation using occupancy tax collection monies, and decisions on grant recipients are made by a Grants Committee that is comprised of HCTDA Board members and representatives from the community.

Find out if your organization or project is eligible for funding at the links below. With additional questions, please contact the Asset & Event Development Coordinator, Amy Boswell.

Applications for CDBG, HOME and Housing Trust Fund
Jan 9 @ 6:00 am – 10:00 am
online

The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.

The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.

The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.

 

How to Apply:

To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application,  visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected]

Tuesday, January 10, 2023
2023 School Garden Grants
Jan 10 all-day
online

Extension Master GardenerSM Volunteers of Buncombe County are happy to announce for the sixteenth year we are offering School Garden Grants to Asheville City and Buncombe County public schools, including state charter schools.

Growing Vegetables at Childcare Centers_photo by NC State Extension
Learning to plant veggie seeds

We provide a notice of the application period along with instructions to all school principals, elementary through senior high. Additional information is available on our websitebuncombemastergardener.org, where you can learn more about the guidelines for receiving a grant and get online access to the 2023 School Garden Grants Application.

All applications must be completed online. Completed applications will be accepted beginning January 9, 2023, and must be submitted no later than 9 p.m. on February 3, 2023. If you have any questions, please call the Extension Office at 828-255-5522.

We are proud of our partnership with Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools. Since 2007, we have awarded 52 School Garden Grants totaling over $45,000. These grants have involved more than 16,500 students and hundreds of teachers, parents, and community volunteers.

School gardens grow more than plants. They grow imagination and creativity. They make math and science come alive, and they build community. We hope your school will join us in 2023.

Click on the link below to review the guidelines for school garden grants:
Guidelines for 2023 School Garden Grants

Henderson County Tourism Grant Program Now Open
Jan 10 all-day
online

 

The Henderson County Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA) offers an annual grant program to benefit tourism-related businesses and non-profit organizations as a way to build Henderson County into an even stronger tourist destination — the better you are, the better we are! The yearly grant program accepts applications from December through January, with selections and disbursements being made in the spring (see timeline below for exact dates).

4 info sessions were held leading up to the grant request period.

1) Watch a recording of the General Info Meeting
2) Watch a recording of the Destination Enhancement Grant Info Meeting
3) Watch a recording of the Marketing Grant Info Meeting
4) Watch a recording of the Event Grant Info Meeting

Grants are awarded in 3 categories: Marketing Grants, to promote your business or event; Event Grants, to support the operations budget of the event; and Destination Enhancement Grants, which includes building new or improving existing assets.

The HCTDA is empowered to award grant funding through state tax legislation using occupancy tax collection monies, and decisions on grant recipients are made by a Grants Committee that is comprised of HCTDA Board members and representatives from the community.

Find out if your organization or project is eligible for funding at the links below. With additional questions, please contact the Asset & Event Development Coordinator, Amy Boswell.

Applications for CDBG, HOME and Housing Trust Fund
Jan 10 @ 6:00 am – 10:00 am
online

The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.

The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.

The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.

 

How to Apply:

To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application,  visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected]

Wednesday, January 11, 2023
2023 School Garden Grants
Jan 11 all-day
online

Extension Master GardenerSM Volunteers of Buncombe County are happy to announce for the sixteenth year we are offering School Garden Grants to Asheville City and Buncombe County public schools, including state charter schools.

Growing Vegetables at Childcare Centers_photo by NC State Extension
Learning to plant veggie seeds

We provide a notice of the application period along with instructions to all school principals, elementary through senior high. Additional information is available on our websitebuncombemastergardener.org, where you can learn more about the guidelines for receiving a grant and get online access to the 2023 School Garden Grants Application.

All applications must be completed online. Completed applications will be accepted beginning January 9, 2023, and must be submitted no later than 9 p.m. on February 3, 2023. If you have any questions, please call the Extension Office at 828-255-5522.

We are proud of our partnership with Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools. Since 2007, we have awarded 52 School Garden Grants totaling over $45,000. These grants have involved more than 16,500 students and hundreds of teachers, parents, and community volunteers.

School gardens grow more than plants. They grow imagination and creativity. They make math and science come alive, and they build community. We hope your school will join us in 2023.

Click on the link below to review the guidelines for school garden grants:
Guidelines for 2023 School Garden Grants

Henderson County Tourism Grant Program Now Open
Jan 11 all-day
online

 

The Henderson County Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA) offers an annual grant program to benefit tourism-related businesses and non-profit organizations as a way to build Henderson County into an even stronger tourist destination — the better you are, the better we are! The yearly grant program accepts applications from December through January, with selections and disbursements being made in the spring (see timeline below for exact dates).

4 info sessions were held leading up to the grant request period.

1) Watch a recording of the General Info Meeting
2) Watch a recording of the Destination Enhancement Grant Info Meeting
3) Watch a recording of the Marketing Grant Info Meeting
4) Watch a recording of the Event Grant Info Meeting

Grants are awarded in 3 categories: Marketing Grants, to promote your business or event; Event Grants, to support the operations budget of the event; and Destination Enhancement Grants, which includes building new or improving existing assets.

The HCTDA is empowered to award grant funding through state tax legislation using occupancy tax collection monies, and decisions on grant recipients are made by a Grants Committee that is comprised of HCTDA Board members and representatives from the community.

Find out if your organization or project is eligible for funding at the links below. With additional questions, please contact the Asset & Event Development Coordinator, Amy Boswell.

Non-Profit Wristband Partner Program Grant
Jan 11 all-day
online

The Asheville Downtown Association’s (ADA) Wristband Partner Program provides an opportunity for local nonprofits to sell wristbands at ADA events. The selected nonprofit receives a grant of $2,000, as well as the opportunity to share their program of work with the large audiences at these events. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 24, 2023.

SAHC 3rd Annual Winter Hiking Challenge: January 1 to March 1, 2023 – 60 miles in 60 days!
Jan 11 all-day
outside:)
Hikers in winter
January 1 to March 1, 2023 – 60 miles in 60 days!

Do you need a little inspiration to get moving after the holiday season? Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is starting off 2023 with a challenge to get folks out and about – hiking or walking to enjoy the great outdoors!

The SAHC Winter Hiking Challenge sets a goal of 60 miles in 60 days, to be completed in your own time and at your own speed. Those can be miles you’ve walked, run or hiked – in your neighborhood, on a flat walking track, up a rugged mountain trail, or meandering in fields and forests. Whatever works for your comfort and skill level – just make it 60 miles within the 60-day challenge time period (January 1 to March 1, 2023). Sign up early to have more time to complete the Challenge. Registration ends on February 1.

All participants will receive informative emails with suggestions for some of our favorite places to hike across the mountains of NC and TN. This special email series will include recommendations to enjoy places that SAHC has protected as well other favorite trails and excursions. We all know that some of our favorite hiking places are experiencing overuse and suffering impacts from their popularity. We will try to share tidbits about some of the lesser-known trails and places to enjoy the great outdoors, so you can help alleviate stress on fragile trail ecosystems. Those who complete the Winter Hiking Challenge will receive a commemorative SAHC patch after the end of the challenge (after March 1).  Proceeds from the Challenge sign-ups support conservation work in the Southern Appalachians.

Time spent outdoors and in nature can help with both mental and physical health. We hope this Challenge will make it interesting for folks to explore places you may not have hiked before, and/or to rediscover the joy of nature in your own backyard. Please note, the Challenge signup fee is a fundraiser to help support conservation efforts; you DO NOT have to pay to hike public trails.

Are you a little unsure about hiking in winter? We will share helpful Winter Hiking Tips, for those who haven’t hiked during the winter months. Feel free to enter miles at any date during the 60 days, as long as they are all entered before March 1. You can even enter your miles at the end of a certain time period (e.g, entering your miles for the week on Friday, all under one entry).

Take the Challenge by yourself, or with friends and family. Please just be safe while doing so!

RACE CONTACT INFO
If you have any questions about this race, please contact the race director at [email protected]
Applications for CDBG, HOME and Housing Trust Fund
Jan 11 @ 6:00 am – 10:00 am
online

The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.

The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.

The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.

 

How to Apply:

To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application,  visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected]

ecoEXPLORE Family Birding Day
Jan 11 @ 11:30 am – 4:30 pm
Lake Julian Playground Shelter

Looking to get your kids outside this winter? Join us as we walk you through the web-based program, ecoEXPLORE. You’ll learn how to submit photos and complete nature themed challenges to earn badges and prizes!

This initiative by the NC Arboretum includes a different challenge each season that will keep children engaged in learning about nature year-round while also contributing to citizen science. The theme this winter is ornithology. We’ll explore Lake Julian’s shores and woods for a variety of feathered friends! Stick around after the program to continue your exploration of the nature trails and playground

Thursday, January 12, 2023
2023 School Garden Grants
Jan 12 all-day
online

Extension Master GardenerSM Volunteers of Buncombe County are happy to announce for the sixteenth year we are offering School Garden Grants to Asheville City and Buncombe County public schools, including state charter schools.

Growing Vegetables at Childcare Centers_photo by NC State Extension
Learning to plant veggie seeds

We provide a notice of the application period along with instructions to all school principals, elementary through senior high. Additional information is available on our websitebuncombemastergardener.org, where you can learn more about the guidelines for receiving a grant and get online access to the 2023 School Garden Grants Application.

All applications must be completed online. Completed applications will be accepted beginning January 9, 2023, and must be submitted no later than 9 p.m. on February 3, 2023. If you have any questions, please call the Extension Office at 828-255-5522.

We are proud of our partnership with Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools. Since 2007, we have awarded 52 School Garden Grants totaling over $45,000. These grants have involved more than 16,500 students and hundreds of teachers, parents, and community volunteers.

School gardens grow more than plants. They grow imagination and creativity. They make math and science come alive, and they build community. We hope your school will join us in 2023.

Click on the link below to review the guidelines for school garden grants:
Guidelines for 2023 School Garden Grants

Henderson County Tourism Grant Program Now Open
Jan 12 all-day
online

 

The Henderson County Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA) offers an annual grant program to benefit tourism-related businesses and non-profit organizations as a way to build Henderson County into an even stronger tourist destination — the better you are, the better we are! The yearly grant program accepts applications from December through January, with selections and disbursements being made in the spring (see timeline below for exact dates).

4 info sessions were held leading up to the grant request period.

1) Watch a recording of the General Info Meeting
2) Watch a recording of the Destination Enhancement Grant Info Meeting
3) Watch a recording of the Marketing Grant Info Meeting
4) Watch a recording of the Event Grant Info Meeting

Grants are awarded in 3 categories: Marketing Grants, to promote your business or event; Event Grants, to support the operations budget of the event; and Destination Enhancement Grants, which includes building new or improving existing assets.

The HCTDA is empowered to award grant funding through state tax legislation using occupancy tax collection monies, and decisions on grant recipients are made by a Grants Committee that is comprised of HCTDA Board members and representatives from the community.

Find out if your organization or project is eligible for funding at the links below. With additional questions, please contact the Asset & Event Development Coordinator, Amy Boswell.

Non-Profit Wristband Partner Program Grant
Jan 12 all-day
online

The Asheville Downtown Association’s (ADA) Wristband Partner Program provides an opportunity for local nonprofits to sell wristbands at ADA events. The selected nonprofit receives a grant of $2,000, as well as the opportunity to share their program of work with the large audiences at these events. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 24, 2023.

SAHC 3rd Annual Winter Hiking Challenge: January 1 to March 1, 2023 – 60 miles in 60 days!
Jan 12 all-day
outside:)
Hikers in winter
January 1 to March 1, 2023 – 60 miles in 60 days!

Do you need a little inspiration to get moving after the holiday season? Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is starting off 2023 with a challenge to get folks out and about – hiking or walking to enjoy the great outdoors!

The SAHC Winter Hiking Challenge sets a goal of 60 miles in 60 days, to be completed in your own time and at your own speed. Those can be miles you’ve walked, run or hiked – in your neighborhood, on a flat walking track, up a rugged mountain trail, or meandering in fields and forests. Whatever works for your comfort and skill level – just make it 60 miles within the 60-day challenge time period (January 1 to March 1, 2023). Sign up early to have more time to complete the Challenge. Registration ends on February 1.

All participants will receive informative emails with suggestions for some of our favorite places to hike across the mountains of NC and TN. This special email series will include recommendations to enjoy places that SAHC has protected as well other favorite trails and excursions. We all know that some of our favorite hiking places are experiencing overuse and suffering impacts from their popularity. We will try to share tidbits about some of the lesser-known trails and places to enjoy the great outdoors, so you can help alleviate stress on fragile trail ecosystems. Those who complete the Winter Hiking Challenge will receive a commemorative SAHC patch after the end of the challenge (after March 1).  Proceeds from the Challenge sign-ups support conservation work in the Southern Appalachians.

Time spent outdoors and in nature can help with both mental and physical health. We hope this Challenge will make it interesting for folks to explore places you may not have hiked before, and/or to rediscover the joy of nature in your own backyard. Please note, the Challenge signup fee is a fundraiser to help support conservation efforts; you DO NOT have to pay to hike public trails.

Are you a little unsure about hiking in winter? We will share helpful Winter Hiking Tips, for those who haven’t hiked during the winter months. Feel free to enter miles at any date during the 60 days, as long as they are all entered before March 1. You can even enter your miles at the end of a certain time period (e.g, entering your miles for the week on Friday, all under one entry).

Take the Challenge by yourself, or with friends and family. Please just be safe while doing so!

RACE CONTACT INFO
If you have any questions about this race, please contact the race director at [email protected]
Applications for CDBG, HOME and Housing Trust Fund
Jan 12 @ 6:00 am – 10:00 am
online

The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.

The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.

The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.

 

How to Apply:

To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application,  visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected]

Friday, January 13, 2023
2023 School Garden Grants
Jan 13 all-day
online

Extension Master GardenerSM Volunteers of Buncombe County are happy to announce for the sixteenth year we are offering School Garden Grants to Asheville City and Buncombe County public schools, including state charter schools.

Growing Vegetables at Childcare Centers_photo by NC State Extension
Learning to plant veggie seeds

We provide a notice of the application period along with instructions to all school principals, elementary through senior high. Additional information is available on our websitebuncombemastergardener.org, where you can learn more about the guidelines for receiving a grant and get online access to the 2023 School Garden Grants Application.

All applications must be completed online. Completed applications will be accepted beginning January 9, 2023, and must be submitted no later than 9 p.m. on February 3, 2023. If you have any questions, please call the Extension Office at 828-255-5522.

We are proud of our partnership with Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools. Since 2007, we have awarded 52 School Garden Grants totaling over $45,000. These grants have involved more than 16,500 students and hundreds of teachers, parents, and community volunteers.

School gardens grow more than plants. They grow imagination and creativity. They make math and science come alive, and they build community. We hope your school will join us in 2023.

Click on the link below to review the guidelines for school garden grants:
Guidelines for 2023 School Garden Grants

Henderson County Tourism Grant Program Now Open
Jan 13 all-day
online

 

The Henderson County Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA) offers an annual grant program to benefit tourism-related businesses and non-profit organizations as a way to build Henderson County into an even stronger tourist destination — the better you are, the better we are! The yearly grant program accepts applications from December through January, with selections and disbursements being made in the spring (see timeline below for exact dates).

4 info sessions were held leading up to the grant request period.

1) Watch a recording of the General Info Meeting
2) Watch a recording of the Destination Enhancement Grant Info Meeting
3) Watch a recording of the Marketing Grant Info Meeting
4) Watch a recording of the Event Grant Info Meeting

Grants are awarded in 3 categories: Marketing Grants, to promote your business or event; Event Grants, to support the operations budget of the event; and Destination Enhancement Grants, which includes building new or improving existing assets.

The HCTDA is empowered to award grant funding through state tax legislation using occupancy tax collection monies, and decisions on grant recipients are made by a Grants Committee that is comprised of HCTDA Board members and representatives from the community.

Find out if your organization or project is eligible for funding at the links below. With additional questions, please contact the Asset & Event Development Coordinator, Amy Boswell.

Nantahala Outdoor Center 2023 Adventure travel trips
Jan 13 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.

Non-Profit Wristband Partner Program Grant
Jan 13 all-day
online

The Asheville Downtown Association’s (ADA) Wristband Partner Program provides an opportunity for local nonprofits to sell wristbands at ADA events. The selected nonprofit receives a grant of $2,000, as well as the opportunity to share their program of work with the large audiences at these events. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 24, 2023.

SAHC 3rd Annual Winter Hiking Challenge: January 1 to March 1, 2023 – 60 miles in 60 days!
Jan 13 all-day
outside:)
Hikers in winter
January 1 to March 1, 2023 – 60 miles in 60 days!

Do you need a little inspiration to get moving after the holiday season? Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is starting off 2023 with a challenge to get folks out and about – hiking or walking to enjoy the great outdoors!

The SAHC Winter Hiking Challenge sets a goal of 60 miles in 60 days, to be completed in your own time and at your own speed. Those can be miles you’ve walked, run or hiked – in your neighborhood, on a flat walking track, up a rugged mountain trail, or meandering in fields and forests. Whatever works for your comfort and skill level – just make it 60 miles within the 60-day challenge time period (January 1 to March 1, 2023). Sign up early to have more time to complete the Challenge. Registration ends on February 1.

All participants will receive informative emails with suggestions for some of our favorite places to hike across the mountains of NC and TN. This special email series will include recommendations to enjoy places that SAHC has protected as well other favorite trails and excursions. We all know that some of our favorite hiking places are experiencing overuse and suffering impacts from their popularity. We will try to share tidbits about some of the lesser-known trails and places to enjoy the great outdoors, so you can help alleviate stress on fragile trail ecosystems. Those who complete the Winter Hiking Challenge will receive a commemorative SAHC patch after the end of the challenge (after March 1).  Proceeds from the Challenge sign-ups support conservation work in the Southern Appalachians.

Time spent outdoors and in nature can help with both mental and physical health. We hope this Challenge will make it interesting for folks to explore places you may not have hiked before, and/or to rediscover the joy of nature in your own backyard. Please note, the Challenge signup fee is a fundraiser to help support conservation efforts; you DO NOT have to pay to hike public trails.

Are you a little unsure about hiking in winter? We will share helpful Winter Hiking Tips, for those who haven’t hiked during the winter months. Feel free to enter miles at any date during the 60 days, as long as they are all entered before March 1. You can even enter your miles at the end of a certain time period (e.g, entering your miles for the week on Friday, all under one entry).

Take the Challenge by yourself, or with friends and family. Please just be safe while doing so!

RACE CONTACT INFO
If you have any questions about this race, please contact the race director at [email protected]
Applications for CDBG, HOME and Housing Trust Fund
Jan 13 @ 6:00 am – 10:00 am
online

The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.

The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.

The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.

 

How to Apply:

To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application,  visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.

Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected]

Saturday, January 14, 2023
2023 School Garden Grants
Jan 14 all-day
online

Extension Master GardenerSM Volunteers of Buncombe County are happy to announce for the sixteenth year we are offering School Garden Grants to Asheville City and Buncombe County public schools, including state charter schools.

Growing Vegetables at Childcare Centers_photo by NC State Extension
Learning to plant veggie seeds

We provide a notice of the application period along with instructions to all school principals, elementary through senior high. Additional information is available on our websitebuncombemastergardener.org, where you can learn more about the guidelines for receiving a grant and get online access to the 2023 School Garden Grants Application.

All applications must be completed online. Completed applications will be accepted beginning January 9, 2023, and must be submitted no later than 9 p.m. on February 3, 2023. If you have any questions, please call the Extension Office at 828-255-5522.

We are proud of our partnership with Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools. Since 2007, we have awarded 52 School Garden Grants totaling over $45,000. These grants have involved more than 16,500 students and hundreds of teachers, parents, and community volunteers.

School gardens grow more than plants. They grow imagination and creativity. They make math and science come alive, and they build community. We hope your school will join us in 2023.

Click on the link below to review the guidelines for school garden grants:
Guidelines for 2023 School Garden Grants

Henderson County Tourism Grant Program Now Open
Jan 14 all-day
online

 

The Henderson County Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA) offers an annual grant program to benefit tourism-related businesses and non-profit organizations as a way to build Henderson County into an even stronger tourist destination — the better you are, the better we are! The yearly grant program accepts applications from December through January, with selections and disbursements being made in the spring (see timeline below for exact dates).

4 info sessions were held leading up to the grant request period.

1) Watch a recording of the General Info Meeting
2) Watch a recording of the Destination Enhancement Grant Info Meeting
3) Watch a recording of the Marketing Grant Info Meeting
4) Watch a recording of the Event Grant Info Meeting

Grants are awarded in 3 categories: Marketing Grants, to promote your business or event; Event Grants, to support the operations budget of the event; and Destination Enhancement Grants, which includes building new or improving existing assets.

The HCTDA is empowered to award grant funding through state tax legislation using occupancy tax collection monies, and decisions on grant recipients are made by a Grants Committee that is comprised of HCTDA Board members and representatives from the community.

Find out if your organization or project is eligible for funding at the links below. With additional questions, please contact the Asset & Event Development Coordinator, Amy Boswell.

Nantahala Outdoor Center 2023 Adventure travel trips
Jan 14 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.