Calendar of Events
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.
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Verner Center for Early Learning is a nonprofit agency providing high quality, affordable early care and education to children birth to five years of age throughout Buncombe County. The mission of Verner Center is to foster holistic learning environments where young children and families thrive. The organization embraces a philosophy that includes excellence in early childhood practices, diversity among children and families, and partnerships and collaboration with families and communities. This philosophy is demonstrated through provision of high quality education, family services, health and nutrition services, and professional development for teachers.
We are currently looking for compassionate volunteers to support our experiential garden.
Volunteer Opportunity Includes:
- Pulling weeds
- Cleaning out garden beds
- Prepping new garden beds
- Building small projects
- Mowing
- Weed eating
- Laying mulch
- Watering
Volunteer Requirements:
- Respond to the shift
- Comfortable working in various weather conditions
- Comfortable bending, stooping, twisting
- Ability to stand for 1-2 hours at a time

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.
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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. |
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Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain feature expansive views of Shining Rock Wilderness. With sunset at 5:20p, we will begin the hike at 4p to reach the summit of Tennent Mountain in time to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
We will be doing this loop counterclockwise, which is the more challenging way. This is for safety – the latter portion of the hike will be in the dark, so going this direction means we will only have to navigate Ivestor Gap, an old Jeep road, after the sun goes down, rather than more technical trails.
This hike is 4.3 mi with just under 700 ft elevation gain. We will be doing most of the climbing in the first half. We will only have one hour to hike about 2 miles to Tennent Mountain summit. This is an easy pace on flat ground, but not with the elevation. If you are not accustomed to hiking like this, please join for a different hike (more will be planned).
I’m normally not a stickler for rules, but for this event, there are a few :-/
- We will depart the trailhead at 4pm sharp. If you are not there, we will be leaving without you. I can’t guarantee phone service, so I may not see messages letting me know you’ll be late. And since the sunset is the goal, we don’t want the group to miss it by waiting for someone who is late. The trailhead is about an hour from Asheville, so please account for that, traffic, and time to find a parking spot. I’ll be there around 3:45.
- Bring enough water for you (and your dog if you are bringing one).
- Dogs are welcome if they are leashed (6 ft or shorter), well behaved, and socialized with other dogs and humans. I will be bringing my pup.
- Bring a headlamp! We will be hiking in the dark.
- Wear appropriate/supportive shoes – the trail is rocky.
- Bring layers. It will be very windy at the summit, and up to 20 degrees colder than in Asheville.
- Feel free to bring snacks. The goal is to chill and watch the sunset so we will have some time to rest.
- You are responsible for you (and your dog, if applicable). I am not a trained guide and I am not trained in wilderness first aid. By RSVPing “yes” to this event, you are acknowledging that I will not be held responsible for any injuries you may sustain on this hike.
Okay, now that that unpleasant part is done, I’ve got some fun links below! I have not done this hike yet, but the links below are where I gathered my info! Please read :-)
Thanks! Can’t wait to see you there!
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/ivestor-gap-trail-to-tennent-mountain-and-black-balsam-knob-trail
MSC is an empirically-supported 9-session program that helps participants develop and deepen the skills of self-compassion. Activities include meditation, talks, discussion, and experiential exercises. This class will be held rain or shine outdoors in a beautiful setting over nine Saturdays, 9/17-11/19, skipping 10/15.
We will meet from 10:30AM-2PM with a 30-minute break for lunch midway through each session. Each class participant will receive a copy of The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook.
Register at mindfulselfcompassionasheville.com by 8/30 for early-bird pricing.

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.
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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. |
Parade entries include a little something for everyone with the Grand Marshal entry sponsored by Apple Tree Honda, decorated floats, our Honored Veterans float sponsored by Deerfield, marching bands, performances, and of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus, brought to you by the NC Arboretum’s Winter Lights.
Local chefs and restaurateurs, Katie Button and Meherwan Irani, will serve as Grand Marshals. Button’s Curate and Irani’s Chai Pani were the recipients of prestigious James Beard Foundation Awards earlier this year. Curate was the recipient of the Outstanding Hospitality Award and Chai Pani was named Outstanding Restaurant.
“The Asheville Holiday Parade is the kickoff to the holiday season. So many local groups and organizations work hard to put together fun and entertaining entries and bring joy to their community,” said Meghan Rogers, executive director for the Asheville Downtown Association.
Following the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus will sit for free photos with children from 2-4pm at The Grove Arcade.
The parade route includes Biltmore and Patton Avenues with the official performance stop located near Pack Square. Attendees will find great viewing areas all along Biltmore and Patton Avenues. The parade ends on Patton Avenue at S. French Broad.
Parking is available in City of Asheville and Buncombe County parking decks, as well as private decks and surface lots throughout downtown. Several streets are closed or impacted by the parade. Attendees are encouraged to ride ART public transit, bike or walk to the parade to ease congestion.
The trails of Chimney Rock in the fall are amazing, but a guided hike off-the-beaten-path can lead you to places you never knew existed. Join a naturalist and learn what fall brings to Hickory Nut Gorge. You’ll discover seasonal changes along your trek that will introduce you to a whole new perspective of the Park.
Guided tours of the Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness in Flat Rock are available on the third Saturday of each month at 11am and include the history of the church itself, the oldest active church in the area, as well as the many noted graves in the church’s cemetery, including distinguished political
figures, local citizens and the section of the cemetery for enslaved people, Free, Held the 3rd Saturday of each month, no rain date, Reservations required and limited to 30 people per tour.

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. |

Enjoy a guided tour on our beautiful Community Farm and see all the terrific projects we have in the works. Participants will hike The Discovery Trail in a 2-mile loop, returning to our education and event center. You are welcome to bring a packed lunch to enjoy there while overlooking the entire farm and surrounding mountains

Jazz Sunday at One World Brewing West is a modern jazz jam held every Sunday afternoon from 1-4pm. Previously known as Jazz Monday, the jam has been running non stop since July, 2018 at the West Asheville brewery and is hosted weekly by The Fully Vaccinated Jazz Trio, consisting of Ray Ring on guitar, Jason DeCristofaro on drums, piano and vibraphone, and Connor Law on bass. Jazz Sunday typically features a guest artist for a short set and then welcomes jazz musicians of all levels to sit in for the remainder of the afternoon on One World’s spacious outdoor stage.
Spend an hour hiking one of the Parks’ six trails with a naturalist. Discover the fall flora and fauna of the Park on this educational excursion. You may even learn some of the Parks’ history as well. Meet in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts.
Auditions taking place on November 22, 2022 from 7pm to 10pm. Please sign up for an appointment here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040945a8a62da4fb6-auditions
The Magnetic Theatre is developing a new folk musical, Riveted, by local playwright and musician Deborah Silverstein. We’ll be presenting a reading on Saturday, January 21st, 2023. These auditions are for the reading only. The full production is tentatively scheduled for April, 2024.
Please prepare a 60 second monologue and 16 bars of a song. An accompanist will be provided – please bring your sheet music!
Synopsis: Riveted is a folk musical exploration of generations of women and how each woman learns from or bucks against the traditions of her mother, and her mother before her. As a family packs up all of the memories in the matriarch’s attic, secrets and history unfold to change their lives and relationships forever.
Character Breakdown:
Rosie – Matriarch of the family, about to move into assisted living. 70s-80s
Betty – Rosie’s daughter. Rebellious spirit. 50s-60s
Emma – Betty’s daughter. Level-headed and smart. 30s
Young Rosie – Rosie as a young woman. 20s
Beatrice Gretzer – Rosie’s best friend. In love with Rosie. 20s
Frank Brennan – Rosie’s husband. Demanding, stoic, in a typical 1950s mindset. 20s
Billy / Will – Billy is Rosie’s brother. 20s. / Will is Rosie’s son. 20s. Both are sent to war, scared, but doing their civic duty as they see it necessary.
Young Betty – Betty as a young woman. Hippie / Protestor type. 20s.
Elliot – Betty’s husband. Hippie / Protestor type. Very strong willed. 20s.
June / Heinz Girl / Receptionist – Young Rosie’s friends and coworkers. 20s
Martha / Heinz Girl – Young Rosie’s friends and coworkers. 20s
Date: 11/22/2022 (Tue.) Location: 375 Depot St.
For more information about The Magnetic Theatre, please visit www.themagnetictheatre.org

Thanksgiving is the largest running holiday with families all over the country! Turkey Trots are a great way to start the day. Join us at Biltmore Park Town Square and enjoy some fresh air and exercise before gathering around the table for your Thanksgiving feast! You’ll share miles and smiles with your family and friends as part of this fun, annual tradition.
The race is located in Biltmore Park Town Square in South Asheville, North Carolina. The entire race is run throughout the Town Square and the surrounding neighborhoods within Biltmore Park.
Bring your entire family and celebrate Thanksgiving with us for this holiday, annual tradition.

Gates open at 5:30pm
All Ages – under 12 requires venue approval
RAIN OR SHINE
CLEAR BAGS ONLY

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.
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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. |
Did you know our staff had a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn what kind of wildlife inhabits the Park and their important roles in the ecosystem. Some of our best teachers have feathers, fur, shells or scales!

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. |

French Broad River Park: Go to the parking lot off of Riverview Drive, which is off of Amboy Rd. Find the cobalt blue canopy tent!
We will be as close to as directly across the parking lot as we can, near the water, with the tent (go past the bathrooms and head to the water). So, you should be able to find us pretty easily if it’s your first time).
We’ll enjoy meditations/visualizations, psychic ability empowerment, chakra activations, and lively discussions about how we can participate in the evolution of the new earth… a world where truth and the ethos of love (e.g.: Law of One) are the guiding forces.
All who are interested in spiritual growth and evolution and getting to know others who are “on their wavelength” are welcome.
NOTE: Bring a chair, pillow, or towel to sit on, an open mind, and energies of love, receptivity, and curiosity.
We look forward to meeting you!
Did you know our staff had a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn what kind of wildlife inhabits the Park and their important roles in the ecosystem. Some of our best teachers have feathers, fur, shells or scales!

Join us Thanksgiving Weekend and during the Holidays for our Twilight in the Treetops. Imagine climbing 10, 20, 30-40 feet in the air and zipping along a hang glider or a sky kayak in the largest adventure park in Western North Carolina. Then, as the sun starts to set, the aerial challenges become illuminated with over 15,000 colored twinkle and laser lights. Five of the Adventure Park’s aerial trails become illuminated with all their leaves, cables, ropes and platforms.
This mystical climbing experience is offered for ages 4 and over on Saturday, November 26, and Friday, December 30 at 5 pm. Our Twilight Climb is a great way to celebrate with friends and family.
To book your Twilight experience, call 877.247.5539. (The Black Trail is not available for Twilight Night Climbs.) Reservations are suggested!

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.
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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. |

Jazz Sunday at One World Brewing West is a modern jazz jam held every Sunday afternoon from 1-4pm. Previously known as Jazz Monday, the jam has been running non stop since July, 2018 at the West Asheville brewery and is hosted weekly by The Fully Vaccinated Jazz Trio, consisting of Ray Ring on guitar, Jason DeCristofaro on drums, piano and vibraphone, and Connor Law on bass. Jazz Sunday typically features a guest artist for a short set and then welcomes jazz musicians of all levels to sit in for the remainder of the afternoon on One World’s spacious outdoor stage.
Did you know our staff had a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn what kind of wildlife inhabits the Park and their important roles in the ecosystem. Some of our best teachers have feathers, fur, shells or scales!
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Remote Tropical |
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Uncrowded point breaks, warm water, predictable waves, friendly locals, great food and drink…this is a real surfer’s paradise! Join us on a surf safari in the Ecuadorian town of Mompiche. Great waves and a multitude of other activities from surf lessons, SUP, horseback riding, massages and more, enjoy it all from your ocean front home away from home! |
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Spend an hour hiking one of the Parks’ six trails with a naturalist. Discover the fall flora and fauna of the Park on this educational excursion. You may even learn some of the Parks’ history as well. Meet in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts.

callbacks Thursday, December 1 5:30 – 7:30 pm MAINSTAGE
Native Gardens
PLAY
By Karen Zacarías
Directed by: Candace Taylor
AUDITION DATES: UPDATED: Monday, November 28 and Tuesday, November 29 from 5:30 pm- 7:30 pm, callbacks Thursday, December 1 5:30 – 7:30 pm
PRODUCTION DATES: February 10 – February 26, 2023; Performances: Fridays February 10, 17, 24 and Saturdays February 11, 18, 25 at 7:30pm and Sundays February 5, 12, and 19 at 2:30pm. Cast must plan to arrive at least 1 hour prior to show time.
DIRECTOR SEEKS: TBA – check back for more information closer to audition dates!
ABOUT THE SHOW: Tania, a very pregnant PHD candidate, and Pablo, her high-powered lawyer husband, realize the American dream when they buy a house with a backyard in Washington, DC. Living next door to community stalwarts Virginia and Frank is great – until a disagreement arises over a long-standing fence line between their homes. The conflict spirals into an all-out war of taste, class, privilege, and entitlement. With witty humor and engaging real-life drama, Native Gardens showcases conflict – and the worst and best ways to work it out!
Director Candance Taylor seeks a cast of four for this quick-witted and engaging real-life drama. Characters include Tania, a doctoral candidate, her husband Pablo, a rising attorney, and Frank and Virginia, their neighbors – a well-established D.C. couple with a prize-worthy English garden.

callbacks Thursday, December 1 5:30 – 7:30 pm MAINSTAGE
Native Gardens
PLAY
By Karen Zacarías
Directed by: Candace Taylor
AUDITION DATES: UPDATED: Monday, November 28 and Tuesday, November 29 from 5:30 pm- 7:30 pm, callbacks Thursday, December 1 5:30 – 7:30 pm
PRODUCTION DATES: February 10 – February 26, 2023; Performances: Fridays February 10, 17, 24 and Saturdays February 11, 18, 25 at 7:30pm and Sundays February 5, 12, and 19 at 2:30pm. Cast must plan to arrive at least 1 hour prior to show time.
DIRECTOR SEEKS: TBA – check back for more information closer to audition dates!
ABOUT THE SHOW: Tania, a very pregnant PHD candidate, and Pablo, her high-powered lawyer husband, realize the American dream when they buy a house with a backyard in Washington, DC. Living next door to community stalwarts Virginia and Frank is great – until a disagreement arises over a long-standing fence line between their homes. The conflict spirals into an all-out war of taste, class, privilege, and entitlement. With witty humor and engaging real-life drama, Native Gardens showcases conflict – and the worst and best ways to work it out!
Director Candance Taylor seeks a cast of four for this quick-witted and engaging real-life drama. Characters include Tania, a doctoral candidate, her husband Pablo, a rising attorney, and Frank and Virginia, their neighbors – a well-established D.C. couple with a prize-worthy English garden.














