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, September 27, 2020
Guest Appreciation Festival Nantahala Outdoor Center NOW ON LINE ONLY
Sep 27 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
Online

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.

In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.

It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.

Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.

“Empty Bowls” Flat Rock Backpack Program RESCHEDEULED
Sep 27 @ 12:30 pm
The Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness
Due to current public health concerns with COVID-19, the fourth annual “Empty
Bowls” fundraiser has once again been postponed and with a different format. The fundraiser
was originally set for March 29, and then pushed back to September 27, 2020. Now organizers
have decided to honor only current ticket holders to an event on Saturday, October 3, 2020.
There will be no food or beverages served or any further ticket sales. Original ticket purchasers
will be contacted to pick up a hand-crafted bowl made by a local pottery artist at The Episcopal
Church of St. John in the Wilderness, 1905 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock.
The traditional Empty Bowls event plans to return in the future.
For more information please call 828-693-9783.
For the fourth year, local pottery artists are firing their kilns to help hungry
children in the greater Flat Rock area.
EMPTY BOWLS, a community meal benefitting the Flat Rock Backpack Program, will take place inside the Parish
Hall at The Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness, 1905 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock.
There are three seatings with suggested reservations, 12:30pm, 5pm and 6pm.
Tickets are $25 per person or $50 for a family of two adults and children under 12 years old.
Each ticket includes one hand-crafted bowl (all donated by area potters) and a soup-based meal
(a variety of soups, breads and desserts).
Tickets will be available beginning Monday, March 2 at St. John in the Wilderness Parish House Office, from Backpack team members or at the door on the day of the event.
Please join us for this fun community event. Donations are gratefully accepted throughout the
year.
Monday, September 28, 2020
Guest Appreciation Festival Nantahala Outdoor Center NOW ON LINE ONLY
Sep 28 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
Online

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.

In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.

It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.

Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.

Tuesday, September 29, 2020
Guest Appreciation Festival Nantahala Outdoor Center NOW ON LINE ONLY
Sep 29 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
Online

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.

In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.

It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.

Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.

Wednesday, September 30, 2020
Guest Appreciation Festival Nantahala Outdoor Center NOW ON LINE ONLY
Sep 30 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
Online

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.

In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.

It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.

Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.

Friday, October 2, 2020
The 23rd Annual French Broad River Festival RESCHEDULED Oct 2-4
Oct 2 all-day
Hot Springs Resort And Spa
23rd FBRF rescheduled
Hello wonderful FBRFers,

With all the cancellations we want to share what we hope you will agree is good news! Our friends at the Hot Springs Campground & Resort have allowed us to move the 23rd annual river fest to the fall, Oct 2-4, 2020. As many of you know we hosted a fall fest or “French Broad Brew Fest” from 2011 to 2015 and it’s a spectacular time of the year to be in this special place down by the river, and we’re really excited to be able to do the full-on 23rd FBRF at that time. Expect lots of great music, kid’s village, whitewater raft race, river cleanup, pumpkins, great weather (usually), and politicians (just kidding we’ll need a break around that time right?).

So . . . if you purchased tickets already you can do nothing and plan on being there Oct. 2-4, 2020 with your purchased ticket . . . or you can go to your Eventbrite account and get a full refund (minus service charges) until April 15th (you will also receive this message with instructions from your Eventbrite account). If you made campground reservations for any nights prior to the spring festival, the campground will allow you to cancel them and/or reschedule (828-622-7676). However, please note, the Hot Springs Resort & Spa is closed for the next two weeks for quarantine. They are happy to get you taken care of as soon as they reopen. If you have questions about refund or anything else email us at [email protected] or message social media and we’ll try to respond as soon as we can.

More details to come about the 23rd French Broad River Festival Oct. 2-4, 2020 as we work to make it the best ever.  Meanwhile check out this short video from the 2012 French Broad Fall Fest.

Stay safe and healthy everyone.  With optimism that comes with the first day of spring, we look forward to seeing you in the fall!

 

The 23rd annual French Broad River Festival will be held May 1-3, 2020 at the beautiful Hot
Springs Campground on the banks of the French Broad River.
FBRF has a loyal following and if you’ve been there, you know. Participate in the river cleanup to kick it off, hike the AT, ride bikes, go fishing, soak in the hot springs, get a massage, go whitewater rafting, check out the vendors, and enjoy the music.
The music is diverse and always on point for such a “small” festival and the setting is incredible.
It’s for a good cause, with over $200,000 donated over 20 years to American Whitewater, Hot Springs Community Learning Center, Homeward Bound, Eliada Home, Mountain Area Child & Family Center, Big Brothers / Big Sisters of WNC, Manna Food bank and more.
Saturday, October 3, 2020
The 23rd Annual French Broad River Festival RESCHEDULED Oct 2-4
Oct 3 all-day
Hot Springs Resort And Spa
23rd FBRF rescheduled
Hello wonderful FBRFers,

With all the cancellations we want to share what we hope you will agree is good news! Our friends at the Hot Springs Campground & Resort have allowed us to move the 23rd annual river fest to the fall, Oct 2-4, 2020. As many of you know we hosted a fall fest or “French Broad Brew Fest” from 2011 to 2015 and it’s a spectacular time of the year to be in this special place down by the river, and we’re really excited to be able to do the full-on 23rd FBRF at that time. Expect lots of great music, kid’s village, whitewater raft race, river cleanup, pumpkins, great weather (usually), and politicians (just kidding we’ll need a break around that time right?).

So . . . if you purchased tickets already you can do nothing and plan on being there Oct. 2-4, 2020 with your purchased ticket . . . or you can go to your Eventbrite account and get a full refund (minus service charges) until April 15th (you will also receive this message with instructions from your Eventbrite account). If you made campground reservations for any nights prior to the spring festival, the campground will allow you to cancel them and/or reschedule (828-622-7676). However, please note, the Hot Springs Resort & Spa is closed for the next two weeks for quarantine. They are happy to get you taken care of as soon as they reopen. If you have questions about refund or anything else email us at [email protected] or message social media and we’ll try to respond as soon as we can.

More details to come about the 23rd French Broad River Festival Oct. 2-4, 2020 as we work to make it the best ever.  Meanwhile check out this short video from the 2012 French Broad Fall Fest.

Stay safe and healthy everyone.  With optimism that comes with the first day of spring, we look forward to seeing you in the fall!

 

The 23rd annual French Broad River Festival will be held May 1-3, 2020 at the beautiful Hot
Springs Campground on the banks of the French Broad River.
FBRF has a loyal following and if you’ve been there, you know. Participate in the river cleanup to kick it off, hike the AT, ride bikes, go fishing, soak in the hot springs, get a massage, go whitewater rafting, check out the vendors, and enjoy the music.
The music is diverse and always on point for such a “small” festival and the setting is incredible.
It’s for a good cause, with over $200,000 donated over 20 years to American Whitewater, Hot Springs Community Learning Center, Homeward Bound, Eliada Home, Mountain Area Child & Family Center, Big Brothers / Big Sisters of WNC, Manna Food bank and more.
“Empty Bowls” Flat Rock Backpack Program RESCHEDEULED
Oct 3 @ 12:30 pm
The Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness
Due to current public health concerns with COVID-19, the fourth annual “Empty
Bowls” fundraiser has once again been postponed and with a different format. The fundraiser
was originally set for March 29, and then pushed back to September 27, 2020. Now organizers
have decided to honor only current ticket holders to an event on Saturday, October 3, 2020.
There will be no food or beverages served or any further ticket sales. Original ticket purchasers
will be contacted to pick up a hand-crafted bowl made by a local pottery artist at The Episcopal
Church of St. John in the Wilderness, 1905 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock.
The traditional Empty Bowls event plans to return in the future.
For more information please call 828-693-9783.
For the fourth year, local pottery artists are firing their kilns to help hungry
children in the greater Flat Rock area.
EMPTY BOWLS, a community meal benefitting the Flat Rock Backpack Program, will take place inside the Parish
Hall at The Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness, 1905 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock.
There are three seatings with suggested reservations, 12:30pm, 5pm and 6pm.
Tickets are $25 per person or $50 for a family of two adults and children under 12 years old.
Each ticket includes one hand-crafted bowl (all donated by area potters) and a soup-based meal
(a variety of soups, breads and desserts).
Tickets will be available beginning Monday, March 2 at St. John in the Wilderness Parish House Office, from Backpack team members or at the door on the day of the event.
Please join us for this fun community event. Donations are gratefully accepted throughout the
year.
Sunday, October 4, 2020
The 23rd Annual French Broad River Festival RESCHEDULED Oct 2-4
Oct 4 all-day
Hot Springs Resort And Spa
23rd FBRF rescheduled
Hello wonderful FBRFers,

With all the cancellations we want to share what we hope you will agree is good news! Our friends at the Hot Springs Campground & Resort have allowed us to move the 23rd annual river fest to the fall, Oct 2-4, 2020. As many of you know we hosted a fall fest or “French Broad Brew Fest” from 2011 to 2015 and it’s a spectacular time of the year to be in this special place down by the river, and we’re really excited to be able to do the full-on 23rd FBRF at that time. Expect lots of great music, kid’s village, whitewater raft race, river cleanup, pumpkins, great weather (usually), and politicians (just kidding we’ll need a break around that time right?).

So . . . if you purchased tickets already you can do nothing and plan on being there Oct. 2-4, 2020 with your purchased ticket . . . or you can go to your Eventbrite account and get a full refund (minus service charges) until April 15th (you will also receive this message with instructions from your Eventbrite account). If you made campground reservations for any nights prior to the spring festival, the campground will allow you to cancel them and/or reschedule (828-622-7676). However, please note, the Hot Springs Resort & Spa is closed for the next two weeks for quarantine. They are happy to get you taken care of as soon as they reopen. If you have questions about refund or anything else email us at [email protected] or message social media and we’ll try to respond as soon as we can.

More details to come about the 23rd French Broad River Festival Oct. 2-4, 2020 as we work to make it the best ever.  Meanwhile check out this short video from the 2012 French Broad Fall Fest.

Stay safe and healthy everyone.  With optimism that comes with the first day of spring, we look forward to seeing you in the fall!

 

The 23rd annual French Broad River Festival will be held May 1-3, 2020 at the beautiful Hot
Springs Campground on the banks of the French Broad River.
FBRF has a loyal following and if you’ve been there, you know. Participate in the river cleanup to kick it off, hike the AT, ride bikes, go fishing, soak in the hot springs, get a massage, go whitewater rafting, check out the vendors, and enjoy the music.
The music is diverse and always on point for such a “small” festival and the setting is incredible.
It’s for a good cause, with over $200,000 donated over 20 years to American Whitewater, Hot Springs Community Learning Center, Homeward Bound, Eliada Home, Mountain Area Child & Family Center, Big Brothers / Big Sisters of WNC, Manna Food bank and more.
North Carolina Balloon Festival
Oct 4 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Biltmore

Image may contain: sky and outdoor

North Carolina Balloon Festival
October 2, 5:00 pm – October 4, 9:00 pm
Hot air balloons (weather permitting), food trucks, retail vendors and activities for the family!
Details
Start:
October 2, 5:00 pm
End:
October 4, 9:00 pm

Monday, October 5, 2020
19th Annual Manna FoodBank’s Empty Bowls Fundraiser
Oct 5 @ 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
 DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton Asheville-Biltmore
Today in Western North Carolina, 1 in 6 people and 1 in 4 children are facing an empty bowl.
You can help fill it.
MANNA FoodBank’s annual Empty Bowls event is a unique and memorable celebration of community, art, and collaboration, bringing awareness to the very real problem of hunger across Western North Carolina.
2020 Empty Bowls Reimagined
With the health and safety of our guests, volunteers, and staff in mind, we’re excited to announce that Empty Bowls To-Go will take place as a Drive Thru. You’re invited to purchase a $40 ticket for an Empty Bowls package that includes:
  • A handcrafted, one-of-a-kind, artisan pottery bowl made by a local WNC potter
  • A bag of locally-sourced dried soup mix to make at home
  • Exclusive recipe cards featuring favorite soups, stews, and chowders from some of Asheville’s most beloved chefs
  • Some other fun MANNA surprises
And don’t for get the kids! For just $10, you can add a ticket that will provide your favorite little one a unique, handcrafted kids bowl + custom MANNA coloring pages.
As a ticket holder, you will pick up your Empty Bowls package via Drive Thru  on Monday, October 5, without even having to leave your car.
Saturday, October 17, 2020
Apple Harvest Daze Festival
Oct 17 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Main Street Waynesville

It’s Official! The Haywood Chamber of Commerce will move forward with plans for Apple Harvest 2020.

Modifications and changes to ensure the safety of vendors, merchants, visitors and staff have been implemented and will be monitored throughout the day. We area committed to keeping Haywood County safe.

The name has been changed to Apple Harvest Daze as it will not have the same elements of a festival and is on a much smaller scale.  We hope to return to our normal festival activities in 2021.

Monday, October 19, 2020
4th Annual Drums & Dragons Dragon Boat Race Fundraiser Goes Virtual!
Oct 19 all-day
Online

Funds raised during this year’s Drums & Dragons will allow Blue Ridge Health to greatly improve medical treatment options for low-income families, help The Community Table prevent families in Jackson County from going to bed hungry, and allow developmentally challenged adults to thrive with the help of caring Staff of the Irene Wortham Center. Your generosity will also help St. Gerard House improve their capacity to serve children with autism, allow caregivers respite while their family members attend MountainCare’s Adult Day services, and provide low-cost temporary housing at the Rathbun House, the only Hospitality House in the region, for non-Buncombe area residents whose families are undergoing medical treatment in nearby hospitals. Please join us and donate if you can!

Tuesday, October 20, 2020
Second Annual Crush Cancer Golf Tournament
Oct 20 @ 8:00 am
Broadmoor Golf
Thursday, October 22, 2020
50TH LEAF Festival: RESCHEDULED FOR OCT. 22-25 ONLINE EVENT May 15-17
Oct 22 all-day
Lake Eden

Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders: 

  • Per our ticket policy, as a Non-Profit, LEAF is not able to process refunds. Your understanding is deeply appreciated during this very challenging and unprecedented event. All May Tickets, Vehicle Camping, Cabin Rentals & WeX (Work Exchange) applications will automatically transfer into October 2020 Tickets by 3/31. Yet if this does not work for you, we have 3 options:

    1. Receive Credit for a future event per our credit policy (Note: All standard fees will be waived). Your LEAF Credit will be valid for 3 years, and may be transferred to another person. Email: [email protected] your LEAF credit request.

    2. As a non-profit organization, LEAF Membership is the KEY to supporting over 12,000 youth globally through our Cultural Arts Education programs. Please consider having your ticket purchase go towards becoming a LEAF Member or elevating your current membership. Email: Jordan at [email protected]

    3. Make your ticket into a tax-deductible donation. The loss of the Spring Festival major event will have a tremendous financial impact on the LEAF Global Arts Organization. It is essential for a significant portion of our operations, and unfortunately our longtime secure Rainy Day Fund had to be put into action.  Donations will be key to ensuring the long term sustainability of our organization. LEAF is a non-profit 501c3 organization. Email: Jordan at [email protected]

Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders:

  • We have adjusted our traditional WeX (formerly Volunteer) Application Policy. We will transfer all current Spring Festival Applications to this year’s Fall Festival. We will reach back out in June to reconfirm schedules and availability. *IF* you are not able to attend this year’s Fall Festival, October 22-25, you may transfer your application fee to either of the 2021 Festivals by emailing [email protected].

When the world settles, we will stay in touch to let you know when the LEAF Global Arts experience will reopen downtown, and when LEAF Schools & Streets classes and workshops are able to resume (the kids and parents will be ready!). LEAF International programs are each following the protocol of their country. In this time of uncertainty, especially for artists, LEAF has taken the extraordinary step of committing to paying hourly LEAF teaching artists and International Culture Keepers, and creating opportunities that they can make up any loss of income during the coronavirus school and center shutdown. In this crucial time, LEAF Membership and Endowment allows us to make this important commitment for the team that is directly working with the youth who are the future Global Citizens. LEAF Teaching Artists and International Culture Keepers are essential in carrying out the mission of LEAF Global Arts in our neighborhood and across the world. Any additional donations to support this commitment are most welcome.

Friday, October 23, 2020
50TH LEAF Festival: RESCHEDULED FOR OCT. 22-25 ONLINE EVENT May 15-17
Oct 23 all-day
Lake Eden

Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders: 

  • Per our ticket policy, as a Non-Profit, LEAF is not able to process refunds. Your understanding is deeply appreciated during this very challenging and unprecedented event. All May Tickets, Vehicle Camping, Cabin Rentals & WeX (Work Exchange) applications will automatically transfer into October 2020 Tickets by 3/31. Yet if this does not work for you, we have 3 options:

    1. Receive Credit for a future event per our credit policy (Note: All standard fees will be waived). Your LEAF Credit will be valid for 3 years, and may be transferred to another person. Email: [email protected] your LEAF credit request.

    2. As a non-profit organization, LEAF Membership is the KEY to supporting over 12,000 youth globally through our Cultural Arts Education programs. Please consider having your ticket purchase go towards becoming a LEAF Member or elevating your current membership. Email: Jordan at [email protected]

    3. Make your ticket into a tax-deductible donation. The loss of the Spring Festival major event will have a tremendous financial impact on the LEAF Global Arts Organization. It is essential for a significant portion of our operations, and unfortunately our longtime secure Rainy Day Fund had to be put into action.  Donations will be key to ensuring the long term sustainability of our organization. LEAF is a non-profit 501c3 organization. Email: Jordan at [email protected]

Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders:

  • We have adjusted our traditional WeX (formerly Volunteer) Application Policy. We will transfer all current Spring Festival Applications to this year’s Fall Festival. We will reach back out in June to reconfirm schedules and availability. *IF* you are not able to attend this year’s Fall Festival, October 22-25, you may transfer your application fee to either of the 2021 Festivals by emailing [email protected].

When the world settles, we will stay in touch to let you know when the LEAF Global Arts experience will reopen downtown, and when LEAF Schools & Streets classes and workshops are able to resume (the kids and parents will be ready!). LEAF International programs are each following the protocol of their country. In this time of uncertainty, especially for artists, LEAF has taken the extraordinary step of committing to paying hourly LEAF teaching artists and International Culture Keepers, and creating opportunities that they can make up any loss of income during the coronavirus school and center shutdown. In this crucial time, LEAF Membership and Endowment allows us to make this important commitment for the team that is directly working with the youth who are the future Global Citizens. LEAF Teaching Artists and International Culture Keepers are essential in carrying out the mission of LEAF Global Arts in our neighborhood and across the world. Any additional donations to support this commitment are most welcome.

Saturday, October 24, 2020
50TH LEAF Festival: RESCHEDULED FOR OCT. 22-25 ONLINE EVENT May 15-17
Oct 24 all-day
Lake Eden

Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders: 

  • Per our ticket policy, as a Non-Profit, LEAF is not able to process refunds. Your understanding is deeply appreciated during this very challenging and unprecedented event. All May Tickets, Vehicle Camping, Cabin Rentals & WeX (Work Exchange) applications will automatically transfer into October 2020 Tickets by 3/31. Yet if this does not work for you, we have 3 options:

    1. Receive Credit for a future event per our credit policy (Note: All standard fees will be waived). Your LEAF Credit will be valid for 3 years, and may be transferred to another person. Email: [email protected] your LEAF credit request.

    2. As a non-profit organization, LEAF Membership is the KEY to supporting over 12,000 youth globally through our Cultural Arts Education programs. Please consider having your ticket purchase go towards becoming a LEAF Member or elevating your current membership. Email: Jordan at [email protected]

    3. Make your ticket into a tax-deductible donation. The loss of the Spring Festival major event will have a tremendous financial impact on the LEAF Global Arts Organization. It is essential for a significant portion of our operations, and unfortunately our longtime secure Rainy Day Fund had to be put into action.  Donations will be key to ensuring the long term sustainability of our organization. LEAF is a non-profit 501c3 organization. Email: Jordan at [email protected]

Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders:

  • We have adjusted our traditional WeX (formerly Volunteer) Application Policy. We will transfer all current Spring Festival Applications to this year’s Fall Festival. We will reach back out in June to reconfirm schedules and availability. *IF* you are not able to attend this year’s Fall Festival, October 22-25, you may transfer your application fee to either of the 2021 Festivals by emailing [email protected].

When the world settles, we will stay in touch to let you know when the LEAF Global Arts experience will reopen downtown, and when LEAF Schools & Streets classes and workshops are able to resume (the kids and parents will be ready!). LEAF International programs are each following the protocol of their country. In this time of uncertainty, especially for artists, LEAF has taken the extraordinary step of committing to paying hourly LEAF teaching artists and International Culture Keepers, and creating opportunities that they can make up any loss of income during the coronavirus school and center shutdown. In this crucial time, LEAF Membership and Endowment allows us to make this important commitment for the team that is directly working with the youth who are the future Global Citizens. LEAF Teaching Artists and International Culture Keepers are essential in carrying out the mission of LEAF Global Arts in our neighborhood and across the world. Any additional donations to support this commitment are most welcome.

Sunday, October 25, 2020
50TH LEAF Festival: RESCHEDULED FOR OCT. 22-25 ONLINE EVENT May 15-17
Oct 25 all-day
Lake Eden

Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders: 

  • Per our ticket policy, as a Non-Profit, LEAF is not able to process refunds. Your understanding is deeply appreciated during this very challenging and unprecedented event. All May Tickets, Vehicle Camping, Cabin Rentals & WeX (Work Exchange) applications will automatically transfer into October 2020 Tickets by 3/31. Yet if this does not work for you, we have 3 options:

    1. Receive Credit for a future event per our credit policy (Note: All standard fees will be waived). Your LEAF Credit will be valid for 3 years, and may be transferred to another person. Email: [email protected] your LEAF credit request.

    2. As a non-profit organization, LEAF Membership is the KEY to supporting over 12,000 youth globally through our Cultural Arts Education programs. Please consider having your ticket purchase go towards becoming a LEAF Member or elevating your current membership. Email: Jordan at [email protected]

    3. Make your ticket into a tax-deductible donation. The loss of the Spring Festival major event will have a tremendous financial impact on the LEAF Global Arts Organization. It is essential for a significant portion of our operations, and unfortunately our longtime secure Rainy Day Fund had to be put into action.  Donations will be key to ensuring the long term sustainability of our organization. LEAF is a non-profit 501c3 organization. Email: Jordan at [email protected]

Important Details for LEAF Festival Ticket Holders:

  • We have adjusted our traditional WeX (formerly Volunteer) Application Policy. We will transfer all current Spring Festival Applications to this year’s Fall Festival. We will reach back out in June to reconfirm schedules and availability. *IF* you are not able to attend this year’s Fall Festival, October 22-25, you may transfer your application fee to either of the 2021 Festivals by emailing [email protected].

When the world settles, we will stay in touch to let you know when the LEAF Global Arts experience will reopen downtown, and when LEAF Schools & Streets classes and workshops are able to resume (the kids and parents will be ready!). LEAF International programs are each following the protocol of their country. In this time of uncertainty, especially for artists, LEAF has taken the extraordinary step of committing to paying hourly LEAF teaching artists and International Culture Keepers, and creating opportunities that they can make up any loss of income during the coronavirus school and center shutdown. In this crucial time, LEAF Membership and Endowment allows us to make this important commitment for the team that is directly working with the youth who are the future Global Citizens. LEAF Teaching Artists and International Culture Keepers are essential in carrying out the mission of LEAF Global Arts in our neighborhood and across the world. Any additional donations to support this commitment are most welcome.

Wednesday, October 28, 2020
Take a Woolworth Walk on the Wild Side/Appalachian Wild Art Display
Oct 28 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Woolworth Walk

Image may contain: outdoor, text that says 'Takea on the Wild Side! WOOLWORTH WALK An Art Show and Sale to Benefit APPALACHIAN WILDLIFE WOO LWORTH CO. JeffPitmanArt.com OCTOBER 1-31 25 Haywood Street, downtown Asheville Monday Saturday: 11am- 6pm Sunday: 11am 5pm'

Yet another reason to love fall in WNC! The front window display of Woolworth Walk will come alive with wildlife as imagined by 17 local artists. Mark your calendars and visit Woolworth Walk in October to purchase your favorite, these works are sure to sell out fast! Not only will you go home with a beautiful piece of art, but you will be supporting the wild ones and the mission of Appalachian Wildlife Refuge!

Thursday, October 29, 2020
Take a Woolworth Walk on the Wild Side/Appalachian Wild Art Display
Oct 29 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Woolworth Walk

Image may contain: outdoor, text that says 'Takea on the Wild Side! WOOLWORTH WALK An Art Show and Sale to Benefit APPALACHIAN WILDLIFE WOO LWORTH CO. JeffPitmanArt.com OCTOBER 1-31 25 Haywood Street, downtown Asheville Monday Saturday: 11am- 6pm Sunday: 11am 5pm'

Yet another reason to love fall in WNC! The front window display of Woolworth Walk will come alive with wildlife as imagined by 17 local artists. Mark your calendars and visit Woolworth Walk in October to purchase your favorite, these works are sure to sell out fast! Not only will you go home with a beautiful piece of art, but you will be supporting the wild ones and the mission of Appalachian Wildlife Refuge!

Friday, October 30, 2020
Take a Woolworth Walk on the Wild Side/Appalachian Wild Art Display
Oct 30 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Woolworth Walk

Image may contain: outdoor, text that says 'Takea on the Wild Side! WOOLWORTH WALK An Art Show and Sale to Benefit APPALACHIAN WILDLIFE WOO LWORTH CO. JeffPitmanArt.com OCTOBER 1-31 25 Haywood Street, downtown Asheville Monday Saturday: 11am- 6pm Sunday: 11am 5pm'

Yet another reason to love fall in WNC! The front window display of Woolworth Walk will come alive with wildlife as imagined by 17 local artists. Mark your calendars and visit Woolworth Walk in October to purchase your favorite, these works are sure to sell out fast! Not only will you go home with a beautiful piece of art, but you will be supporting the wild ones and the mission of Appalachian Wildlife Refuge!

Socially Distanced Trick-or-Treating
Oct 30 @ 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Hi-Wire Brewing Event Space

Image may contain: sky, text that says 'Socially Distanced Trick Or Treat atHi-Wire aiBewing Brewing'

We are teaming up with Children First/Communities In Schools of Buncombe County to host a safe and socially-distanced trick-or-treating event for friends and families alike!

We are creating a maze of tables (minimally 6ft apart) for trick-or-treaters to follow stopping at each table to collect a special Halloween treat from volunteers at the Children First/Communities In Schools of Buncombe County.

Check-out the details below:
– Fun Halloween music and decorations throughout the building
– Admission is $10
– Admission gets you (1) Beer Token and up to 6 entries in your group (i.e. 1 Adult & 5 Kids, etc.)
– A special treat for each person in your group at each station
– Only 15 groups allowed per 30-minute session to allow proper social distancing

***All ticket proceeds go directly to the Children First/Communities In Schools of Buncombe County***

Saturday, October 31, 2020
Take a Woolworth Walk on the Wild Side/Appalachian Wild Art Display
Oct 31 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Woolworth Walk

Image may contain: outdoor, text that says 'Takea on the Wild Side! WOOLWORTH WALK An Art Show and Sale to Benefit APPALACHIAN WILDLIFE WOO LWORTH CO. JeffPitmanArt.com OCTOBER 1-31 25 Haywood Street, downtown Asheville Monday Saturday: 11am- 6pm Sunday: 11am 5pm'

Yet another reason to love fall in WNC! The front window display of Woolworth Walk will come alive with wildlife as imagined by 17 local artists. Mark your calendars and visit Woolworth Walk in October to purchase your favorite, these works are sure to sell out fast! Not only will you go home with a beautiful piece of art, but you will be supporting the wild ones and the mission of Appalachian Wildlife Refuge!

Howl-O-Ween Costume Party Benefitting Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue
Oct 31 @ 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Aloft Asheville

Image may contain: flower, text that says 'HOWL O-WEENS DOG COSTUME CONTEST DJ MOLLY PARTI AWESOME PRIZES A loft Asheville and Char ie's Angels Animal Rescue invite you and your four-legged friend to join us for this year's Howl-O-Ween, -Ween, dog-centric costume party benefiting Charlie'sAngels Rescue. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31ST 3PM-7PM Splash the outdoor pool deck at Aloft Asheville aloft (wd charlie's angels RESCUEO A.'

https://www.facebook.com/events/358787162213411/

Saturday, November 7, 2020
2020 Smoky Mountain Toy Run Drop Off
Nov 7 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Kearfott Corp.
Thursday, November 12, 2020
Digital Diwali India’s Festival of Lights
Nov 12 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Online

Digital Diwali

Celebrate Diwali, India’s festival of lights, on Twitch! The one and only DJ Rekha spins throughout the evening live from New York City. Learn some Bollywood moves from UofSC dance groups Moksha and Gamecock Bhangra, make simple and tasty Indian snacks with cooking demos from local home chefs, discover how to make rangoli patterns with colorful powders, and learn more about traditional crafts from vendors Peepal Tree and Shree Roopam at a virtual bazaar. Plus, get up close and personal with the exquisitely detailed art in the exhibition Visions from India: 21st-Century Art from the Pizzuti Collection. For extra fun, pick up a DIY diya kit to follow along with our tutorial and make your own diya, a traditional oil lamp. Kits available for purchase for $5 from the CMA Shop in November.

Follow colamuseum on Twitch to be notified when event starts. Free.

This program has been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the human endeavor.

Ingredients for the bhel puri (watch the cooking demo during the event to learn more):

  • Indian grocery store
    • Bhel puri (bag of packaged snacks)
    • Bhujia or sev (bag of packaged snacks)
    • Green chutney (jar)
    • Bombay Bhel Puri chutney, or tamarind chutney (jar)
    • Chaat masala (boxed spice)
    • Green/Thai chilies (optional, for spice)
  • Indian grocery store, or elsewhere
    • 1 Onion
    • 1 -2 Tomatoes
    • 1 Cucumber
    • 2 -3 Potatoes (boiled)
    • Raw mango (optional)
    • Cilantro
Sunday, November 22, 2020
Haircuts and Beer for a Good Cause!!
Nov 22 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Catawba Brewing Company - South Slope

Fresh Air Haircuts generously provided by Local Barber on Tap! All proceed (cost of cuts plus tips) will be donated to OpenDoors of Asheville. Catawba will donate an additional $1 for every flagship beer sold for the day!
Walk Up style… No appointments necessary!
Friday, December 18, 2020
LEAF 2021 announces a few key dates
Dec 18 all-day
LEAF

Spring LEAF Retreat May 13-16 at Lake Eden
LEAF Downtown/ Reimagine August 27-28
Fall LEAF Festival October 14-17 at Lake Eden 
(Size TBD*)

These events will be limited in size but will retain all the LEAF Love. LEAF Members will have priority and at times exclusive access to these events. Please note that Spring LEAF Retreat will be members-only and tickets will be made available on January 4th, 2021. Members have kept LEAF Mission alive and at work in this wild year of 2020! Your membership empowered LEAF to maintain our support of LEAF International Culture Keepers in the 10 countries and local LEAF Schools & Streets Artists. When you support culture, artists and teachers you are investing in the community and young people’s future. Interested in becoming a member? Join membership today!

All $250+ memberships will receive the 2021 LEAF Calendar hot off the press and its going to be a great year!

Asheville Proper’s Cookies for Charity
Dec 18 @ 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Asheville Proper

Sweeten up this holiday season and give back with Asheville Proper’s Cookies for Charity kits launching on National Cookie Day, December 4 and running through Friday, December 18. The decorating kit includes four cookies, three icing bags and sprinkles all prepared by Asheville Proper’s pastry chef, Hilary Lamont, and is available for a $10 donation. All proceeds will go to Asheville-Buncombe Community Christian Ministry, a non-profit organization addressing poverty, hunger, homelessness and access to health care for the under-served in Buncombe County.

Cookies for Charity kits will be available during regular dinner reservations or can be pre-ordered by emailing the restaurant at [email protected] with your name, phone number, number of kits you’d like to purchase and date and time for pick-up. The kits will be available to pick-up in the restaurant Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 4 to 10 p.m.

Saturday, December 19, 2020
LEAF 2021 announces a few key dates
Dec 19 all-day
LEAF

Spring LEAF Retreat May 13-16 at Lake Eden
LEAF Downtown/ Reimagine August 27-28
Fall LEAF Festival October 14-17 at Lake Eden 
(Size TBD*)

These events will be limited in size but will retain all the LEAF Love. LEAF Members will have priority and at times exclusive access to these events. Please note that Spring LEAF Retreat will be members-only and tickets will be made available on January 4th, 2021. Members have kept LEAF Mission alive and at work in this wild year of 2020! Your membership empowered LEAF to maintain our support of LEAF International Culture Keepers in the 10 countries and local LEAF Schools & Streets Artists. When you support culture, artists and teachers you are investing in the community and young people’s future. Interested in becoming a member? Join membership today!

All $250+ memberships will receive the 2021 LEAF Calendar hot off the press and its going to be a great year!