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.

We are excited to bring back two very popular Personal Training specials through the end of the year! From now through December 31st, we are pleased to offer new YWCA Fitness and Aquatics Center members 2 free Personal Training Sessions as a sign-up bonus, and all members are entitled to 20% off Personal Training packages! Our team of Certified Personal Trainers offer support, motivation, and accountability to help you reach your personal health and fitness goals. Together with your trainer, you will create and implement an individualized exercise plan for proper form, function, and results. To sign up, inquire at the Guest Services desk or on our website.
You might have heard about the need to recruit more foster parents in Buncombe County. “We currently have 300 kids in foster care in Buncombe County,” says Heather Hill-Pavone, Buncombe County Licensing Social Worker. “Only some of those kids get to stay in Buncombe County as we only have 100 licensed foster homes with BCHHS.” We need your help to let people in our community know about the upcoming Foster Parent Training Classes happening in 2020!
These courses begin the licensure process for becoming a foster parent. They are offered quarterly, for anyone in Buncombe County, who is interested in becoming a foster parent. While the next round of Foster Parent Training Classes starts on September 11, the classes for 2020 are NOW on the calendar! You can sign up by clicking this link.
2020 Schedule:
- Winter Classes: Jan 16, 2020 through Feb 20, 2020 (Thursdays) at Buncombe County Health and Human Services in Downtown Asheville
- Spring Classes: March 25, 2020 through April 29, 2020 (Wednesdays) at Biltmore Church in Arden, NC
- Summer Classes: June 2, 2020 through July 7, 2020 (Tuesdays) at Biltmore Church in Arden
- Fall Classes: September 14, 2020 through October 19, 2020 (Mondays) at Buncombe County Health and Human Services in Downtown Asheville
Join us January 19 – 26, 2020, as we celebrate our 18th year as the fearless, boundary pushing performing arts festival. We are returning bigger and bolder than ever, beginning a little early, with a free preview party, 7 pm, January 11th at Fleetwood’s in West Asheville. Enjoy art installations from ZedAVL and Geneva Bierce Wilson, be delighted by everyone’s favorite site-specific dance troupe The Accidentals, and grab a newly printed guide so you can start planning your festival!
Fringe Freak Passes go on Sale December 6!
Buy a Freak Pass now to pick from 25 different ticketed shows, which run Thursday, January 23 through Sunday, January 26. The Freak Pass is only $65. Freak Passholders are given priority with reserved seats. There are a limited number available, when they are gone, they’re gone! Price goes up to $75 on January 1st.
As well as over 100 ticketed show times from local, national and international artists, we have FREE Random Acts of Fringe popping up all over town, all week long, and lots of parties! The Kickoff party returns to the Lazy Diamond at 7 pm, co-hosted by the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, from 6-9pm, on Sunday, January 19th. Check out the new Artist Wine Party, hosted by Zapow Gallery, 7 pm, Tuesday, January 21st. Free after-parties return, starting at 10 pm, Thursday at Sly Grog, Friday at Mothlight and Saturday at The Block Off Biltmore, There you can enjoy more Random Acts of Fringe, meet the artists and chat about your favorite shows! See AshevilleFringe.org for all the details.
Individual tickets for each show are $14-$19 and go on sale January 1. See www.AshevilleFringe.org individual show descriptions and ticketing links.
November 29
Downtown Street Lighting & Santa’s Arrival
5:00pm
The lighting of downtown holiday lights and Santa’s arrival kick off the holiday season in Downtown Hendersonville. The evening features entertainment, sing-along, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus at the Historic Courthouse on Main Street. Click for more information Downtown Hendersonville
November 8 – 17
Flat Rock Playhouse presents: “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”
Four kids travel through a wardrobe to the land of Narnia and learn of their destiny to free it with the guidance of a mystical lion! The play was based on the novel by C. S. Lewis. 828-693-0731 Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse
November 29 – December 23
Peppermint the Bear Scavenger Hunt
Free
Peppermint Bear will take you on a fun-filled bear hunt through downtown Hendersonville looking for her cubs. As you search for the cubs, visit at least 12 of the 22 downtown participating businesses to be eligible for prizes. Complete the entry form in the brochure and drop it in Peppermint’s mailbox, located in front of the Visitor Center, by December 23rd. For more details about the Scavenger Hunt, stop by the Visitor Center at 201 South Main Street.
December 7
Hendersonville Christmas Parade
10:00am
A traditional hometown Christmas parade travels along Main Street from Five
Points to Caswell Street. Sponsored by the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association. This year’s theme is the “The Magic of Christmas”. Visit the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association web site to download a Parade application. 828-692-4179
November 29 – December 22
Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage presents: “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas”
An all-new Christmas production follows up last year’s smash holiday hit. This original musical revue performed by your favorite Flat Rock Playhouse singers and dancers is filled with holiday cheer. Celebrate the holidays Vagabonds style! Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse
December 6
Olde Fashioned Hendersonville Christmas
Main Street / 5pm – 8pm
The Downtown merchants open their doors and invite holiday shoppers in with a festive window displays, decorations, caroling, music, and refreshments. 828-697-2232.
December 8
Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper
1pm-4pm
$20
The Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper is a self-guided tour of several inns and the Cookie Caper part of the tour is a delicious Christmas treat at each inn. The inns on tour include the 1898 Waverly Inn, Charleston Inn, Mill House Lodge, Echo Mountain Inn and Brightwaters Guesthouse. 828-697-3010
December 18 – January 1
Iceless Skating Rink
Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm
Admission: $10, Children 10 & under $5 (payment by cash or check only)
Enjoy ice-skating in Downtown Hendersonville this holiday season. The iceless rink is located at the Visitor Center on South Main Street. The synthetic surface is made from special polymers that does not require liquid, so it can be enjoyed year-round in any temperature. A curling lane is also available. Curling involves players sliding stones on the ice towards a target. Play a variety of free games while you wait your turn on the ice. Skate rental included in admission price. Admission: $10, Children $5 for ages 10 & under, with group rates available for groups of 10 or more, but must call to reserve a time for groups, $5 for for 30 minutes of curling. Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm. Operates weather permitting. Benefits the Henderson County America In Bloom Program, 828-768-4413 To learn more go to: Henderson County America in Bloom
December 20 – 22
Main Street Holiday Hayrides
5pm – 8pm
Free
Take a magical hayride through Historic Downtown Hendersonville among its twinkling lights and festive decorations. Board the tractor-drawn wagon ride at the Visitor Center, located at 201 South Main Street. Reservations are not accepted, first-come, first-served basis.


’Tis the season — to recycle!
Seriously, between now and the end of the year… Asheville, we love you, and you are going to generate a lot of….STUFF. You know, all those boxes and bags, tinsel and tags.
As part of the City’s sustainability and trash-reduction goals, we certainly want to keep as much of these materials out of the landfill as possible.
Stay on Santa’s nice list with these holiday recycling tips.
What can go in the Big Blue Cart?
YES
- Wrapping paper (except foil wrapping paper)
- Gift boxes
- Cardboard
- Paper gift bags (remove strings)
- Holiday cards and envelopes
- Catalogs, newspaper, and junk mail
NO
- Tissue paper
- Ribbons and bows
- Plastic gift bags
- Bubble wrap and Styrofoam
- Puffy mailing envelopes
- Used paper plates and cups
- Napkins and paper towels
- Christmas lights or electronics (Residents can take Christmas lights to Biltmore Iron & Metal for recycling.)
Disposing of your Christmas tree
The City of Asheville Sanitation Division will collect natural Christmas trees on their regular brush collection routes. Christmas trees must be free of all lights, ornaments, tinsel, stands, and other materials. Place trees at the curb by 7 a.m. on the Monday of your regular brush collection week. The trees will be taken to Riverside Stump Dump and recycled into mulch.
Residents can also drop off Christmas trees for recycling at the following locations:
- Buncombe County Landfill (81 Panther Branch Road)
- Private yard waste facilities
Artificial trees in reusable condition can be donated to Goodwill or other reuse organization. Artificial trees that can’t be donated should be called in for bulky trash collection to 828-251-1122.
The AIR Passport is your buy-one-get-one (BOGO)* ticket to some of Buncombe County’s highly acclaimed independent restaurants. Visit an old favorite or try a new member of the area’s vibrant independent restaurant community. AIR Passports make great gifts, but they go fast.
The AIR Passport offers BOGO from 60 area eateries with discounts up to $15 per participating restaurants. All proceeds from the AIR Passport go to benefit the ongoing efforts of AIR to keep Asheville’s food scene eclectic and authentic.
“It is one of our largest fundraisers of the year,” Anderson said. “We are able to use these funds throughout the year for educational classes, events and other opportunities for our members and their staff.”
Participating restaurants in the 2020 AIR Passport:
| 828 Pizzeria North | Ducker Tea Room | Rosabees |
| 828 Pizzeria South | Early Girl DT | Rosetta’s |
| AUX Bar | Early Girl West | Roux |
| Baked Pie North | Early Girl North | Rustic Grape |
| Baked Pie South | Farm Burger | Sante |
| The Barrelhouse | French Broad Choc | Sawhorse |
| Bhramari | The Glass Onion | The Social Lounge |
| The Bier Garden | The Grey Eagle | Strada |
| Black Bear BBQ | Hemingway’s Cuba | Sunny Point |
| The Blackbird | Isa’s Bistro | Tupelo Honey DT |
| Blue Dream Curry | Jack of the Wood | Tupelo Honey South |
| Bouchon | Karen Donatelli | Daphne-Twisted Laurel |
| Button & Co Bagels | The Laughing Seed | Twisted Laurel West |
| Buxton Hall | Little Jumbo | Ultimate Ice Cream N |
| The Cantina | The Lobster Trap | Ultimate Ice Cream E |
| Chai Pani | Luella’s North | Vinnie’s Italian |
| Chestnut | Luella’s South | Well Played |
| Chupacabra | The Native Social | White Labs |
| Collaboratory | Pack’s Tavern | White Duck Taco DT |
| Copper Crown | The Oysterhouse | White Duck Taco RAD |
| The Corner Kitchen | The Red Stag Grill | White Duck Taco South |
| Creekside Taphouse | RendezVous |
Shop at Barnes & Noble Asheville and Support Students in Buncombe County
Starting November 1st and running through December 31st, Barnes & Noble Booksellers at the Asheville Mall is hosting a book drive so customers can easily donate books to local middle school youth. It’s such a simple and needed way to support local students. You can simply purchase the books while doing your holiday shopping, leave them with your cashier at check-out, then we will collect the books at the end of the month and distribute them to commmunity partners and students throughout Asheville and Buncombe County.
You can also drop off new, unwrapped books at our office located on 50 South French Broad Avenue in Asheville. If you do, please drop them off by December 10 so we can wrap them up for distribution.

“Dressing for the Occasion” offers visitors a window into the style, culture, and feel of mid-century America. The family’s clothing and accessories weave together the roles of Carl Sandburg as a prominent writer, celebrity, father, and husband. This temporary exhibit offers an exciting opportunity for the public to view objects that are normally in storage or in the possession of Sandburg family members. Tours of the Sandburg Home are offered daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Tickets are available first come, first served, each day from the visitor information area in the ground level of the Sandburg Home.
Nearly every room in the historically furnished house museum will be included in the exhibit. Visitors will see the characteristic scarves Carl Sandburg wore as he played his guitar and sang folk songs to entertain his family and guests, the dress Lilian Sandburg wore to meet President Lyndon B. Johnson, and many other mid-century pieces worn by the Sandburgs and their daughters. Historic photographs, paired with the clothing, will provide context.
A magically festive, full-length Nutcracker production, featuring professional classical dancers and the Ballet Conservatory’s celebrated pre-professional company.
A young girl’s holiday dream comes true. Having crept downstairs at midnight to play with her new Nutcracker doll, Clara is swept up in a fantasy of toy soldiers, giant mice, snow fairies, magic and mystery. After saving her beloved Nutcracker from the Mouse King, she is whisked away to an enchanted land and dances the night away, meeting a host of enchanting characters.
Finally, on Saturday November 30th after Thanksgiving, we’re excited that it’s Kid Hop time again! Kid Hop Hooray (our awesome indoor family dance party that happens monthly all winter long) is back. This event is for kids of all ages, with family-appropriate music from DJ Oso! Drop in anytime – it goes from 10am til 1pm. There will be FREE Glow accessories for little dancers while they last, plenty of room to run, dance, and get their sillies out while it’s cold outside, and snacks for purchase from Asheville Pizza Co and the Hop Ice Creamery, as well as popcorn and juice boxes! And of course, The Orange Peel bar will be open for mom and dad’s refreshments.
Padded area available for crawlers and new walkers to play and explore.
- FREE ADMISSION
- TAQUERIA OPEN AT 11AM
- 10AM – 4PM
We’ll have local vendors set up selling handmade goods, arts, and crafts just in time for holiday gift-giving. Be sure to grab a bite from our in-house Taqueria and a drink from the bar as you peruse Asheville’s finest makers. Plus, we’ll set the mood with some classic holiday tunes!

Since 2010 master scientific glass blower, Jason Probstein has been presenting live glassblowing demonstrations here at our art gallery.
And once again we are proud to announce that Jason will be blowing his unique Christmas ornaments and glass artworks here at Mountain Made gallery from now to December 23rd, 2019.
Jason will be demonstrating Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. He will also be blowing glass every Sunday from Noon to 2:00 PM.
We invite you come by Mountain Made for a fun, family-friendly event
Brace yourself for a Singing, Dancing, Comedy Revolution that is chock-full of references to the wonderful world of Broadway!
From the creator of Forbidden Broadway comes the parody of the most talked about Broadway musical phenomenon of the 21st century. Not simply a send-up of the original, this story is interspersed with outrageous references to Chicago, West Side Story, The King And I, Sweeney Todd, and more! Even the stars of the original cast are comically eviscerated and joined by caricatures of living Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, Barbra Streisand, and Bernadette Peters.
Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just like to laugh, there’s something for everyone in this fresh, new musical parody!
Families and community members from the larger Buncombe County area and beyond will be coming together for this unique outdoor dance experience in Pack Square Park. Honoring and bringing together different subcultures, this gathering is a family-friendly, alcohol-free event featuring world renowned tribal fusion dance music artist, Kaminanda. Come celebrate life and the winter solstice with music and ecstatic dance!
Tickets can be purchased online at startribe.org for $12 for only the first 200 tickets, and then $15 at the door. Pack Square Park provides a beautiful downtown Asheville setting for this family-friendly gathering on a Saturday afternoon from 3-5pm, with doors at 2:30pm. Children 12 and under may enter for free, and it is suggested to bring ear protection for them. There will be hot chai to stay warm and superfood energy bars provided by Infinity Greens, and raw chocolate delights by Asheville legends, Silvermoon Chocolate. Startribe is partnering with Asheville Movement Collective, a community of dancers who gather together for free-form dance by hosting dance waves for personal and community transformation.
Kaminanda is an electronic dance music artist that has been performing in the transformational music scene for over a decade. Kaminanda’s live sets involve yoga fusion instrumentation and music theory designed to take the audience on a journey of hypnotic elements of house, techno and trance while remaining in the slower tempos. A kaleidoscope of warm melodies and twisting, winding compositions will inspire the young and the young-at-heart to connect with their inner dancers.
Startribe is a special events company based in Taos, New Mexico, that has produced a variety of one day events and full weekend festivals around the country. Coming in to the Asheville scene strong, this year they produced the highly acclaimed Full Moon Ecstatic Dance in Carrier Park with Porangui in May, and the well-attended and loved Ecstatic Dance in Pack Square with Random Rab in October. StarTribe events fulfill a passion for dance in the natural elements. They believe that dance in outdoor settings is among the most consciousness enhancing activities we can do for ourselves. Sponsors for this event include Blue Horizons Project, a renewable energy community initiative and Red Wing Marketing, a local music festival management and digital marketing agency.
Brace yourself for a Singing, Dancing, Comedy Revolution that is chock-full of references to the wonderful world of Broadway!
From the creator of Forbidden Broadway comes the parody of the most talked about Broadway musical phenomenon of the 21st century. Not simply a send-up of the original, this story is interspersed with outrageous references to Chicago, West Side Story, The King And I, Sweeney Todd, and more! Even the stars of the original cast are comically eviscerated and joined by caricatures of living Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, Barbra Streisand, and Bernadette Peters.
Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just like to laugh, there’s something for everyone in this fresh, new musical parody!
As temperatures begin to drop we want to make sure people know where to go when frigid weather strikes. If you or someone you know needs shelter, the following sites are available when the Asheville-Buncombe CODE PURPLE is in effect.
Code Purple is a voluntary effort among private sector shelter providers, coordinated by the Asheville Homeless Coalition. The City of Asheville does not fund, direct, coordinate, or manage any aspects of Code Purple, but information on when Code Purple is in effect may be found at this link on the City of Asheville website
In extremely cold conditions, the Code Purple shelter providers will provide shelter beyond their normal program capacity. Code Purple does not include natural disasters such as hurricanes, flooding, or tornadoes; in these events, all citizens will be able to access services at the community disaster shelters.
Code Purple network sites:
- ABCCM Veteran’s Quarters, 828-259-5333: Overnight emergency shelter, men only.
- Homeward Bound A-Hope, 828-252-8883: Day center.
- Western Carolina Rescue Ministries, 828-254-0471: Indoor space during the day (all); overnight emergency shelter for women and children only; identification required; police escort required after 6 p.m.; background check necessary to assure individual is not registered sex offender.
- Steadfast House, 828-259-5365: Limited space availability/overnight emergency shelter for women and children only.
Code Purple network partners:
-
- United Way’s 2-1-1 information and referral line: Dial 211 or 828-252-HELP (4357)
- ABCCM Steadfast House, transitional housing: 828-259-5365.
- American Red Cross (crisis services)
- BEACON members (crisis services)
- Helpmate, overnight domestic violence shelter: Call 24-hour crisis line, 828-254-0516
- Trinity Place (overnight shelter for ages 7-17 only: Amy Hobson, 828-777-5715
The City of Asheville is deeply grateful for the work of all homeless shelter providers. We know they do everything they can do to get people indoors during extreme weather events. We also recognize that despite everyone’s best efforts, there may always be people who choose to remain outdoors, even in the coldest months.

We are excited to bring back two very popular Personal Training specials through the end of the year! From now through December 31st, we are pleased to offer new YWCA Fitness and Aquatics Center members 2 free Personal Training Sessions as a sign-up bonus, and all members are entitled to 20% off Personal Training packages! Our team of Certified Personal Trainers offer support, motivation, and accountability to help you reach your personal health and fitness goals. Together with your trainer, you will create and implement an individualized exercise plan for proper form, function, and results. To sign up, inquire at the Guest Services desk or on our website.
November 29
Downtown Street Lighting & Santa’s Arrival
5:00pm
The lighting of downtown holiday lights and Santa’s arrival kick off the holiday season in Downtown Hendersonville. The evening features entertainment, sing-along, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus at the Historic Courthouse on Main Street. Click for more information Downtown Hendersonville
November 8 – 17
Flat Rock Playhouse presents: “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”
Four kids travel through a wardrobe to the land of Narnia and learn of their destiny to free it with the guidance of a mystical lion! The play was based on the novel by C. S. Lewis. 828-693-0731 Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse
November 29 – December 23
Peppermint the Bear Scavenger Hunt
Free
Peppermint Bear will take you on a fun-filled bear hunt through downtown Hendersonville looking for her cubs. As you search for the cubs, visit at least 12 of the 22 downtown participating businesses to be eligible for prizes. Complete the entry form in the brochure and drop it in Peppermint’s mailbox, located in front of the Visitor Center, by December 23rd. For more details about the Scavenger Hunt, stop by the Visitor Center at 201 South Main Street.
December 7
Hendersonville Christmas Parade
10:00am
A traditional hometown Christmas parade travels along Main Street from Five
Points to Caswell Street. Sponsored by the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association. This year’s theme is the “The Magic of Christmas”. Visit the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association web site to download a Parade application. 828-692-4179
November 29 – December 22
Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage presents: “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas”
An all-new Christmas production follows up last year’s smash holiday hit. This original musical revue performed by your favorite Flat Rock Playhouse singers and dancers is filled with holiday cheer. Celebrate the holidays Vagabonds style! Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse
December 6
Olde Fashioned Hendersonville Christmas
Main Street / 5pm – 8pm
The Downtown merchants open their doors and invite holiday shoppers in with a festive window displays, decorations, caroling, music, and refreshments. 828-697-2232.
December 8
Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper
1pm-4pm
$20
The Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper is a self-guided tour of several inns and the Cookie Caper part of the tour is a delicious Christmas treat at each inn. The inns on tour include the 1898 Waverly Inn, Charleston Inn, Mill House Lodge, Echo Mountain Inn and Brightwaters Guesthouse. 828-697-3010
December 18 – January 1
Iceless Skating Rink
Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm
Admission: $10, Children 10 & under $5 (payment by cash or check only)
Enjoy ice-skating in Downtown Hendersonville this holiday season. The iceless rink is located at the Visitor Center on South Main Street. The synthetic surface is made from special polymers that does not require liquid, so it can be enjoyed year-round in any temperature. A curling lane is also available. Curling involves players sliding stones on the ice towards a target. Play a variety of free games while you wait your turn on the ice. Skate rental included in admission price. Admission: $10, Children $5 for ages 10 & under, with group rates available for groups of 10 or more, but must call to reserve a time for groups, $5 for for 30 minutes of curling. Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm. Operates weather permitting. Benefits the Henderson County America In Bloom Program, 828-768-4413 To learn more go to: Henderson County America in Bloom
December 20 – 22
Main Street Holiday Hayrides
5pm – 8pm
Free
Take a magical hayride through Historic Downtown Hendersonville among its twinkling lights and festive decorations. Board the tractor-drawn wagon ride at the Visitor Center, located at 201 South Main Street. Reservations are not accepted, first-come, first-served basis.


’Tis the season — to recycle!
Seriously, between now and the end of the year… Asheville, we love you, and you are going to generate a lot of….STUFF. You know, all those boxes and bags, tinsel and tags.
As part of the City’s sustainability and trash-reduction goals, we certainly want to keep as much of these materials out of the landfill as possible.
Stay on Santa’s nice list with these holiday recycling tips.
What can go in the Big Blue Cart?
YES
- Wrapping paper (except foil wrapping paper)
- Gift boxes
- Cardboard
- Paper gift bags (remove strings)
- Holiday cards and envelopes
- Catalogs, newspaper, and junk mail
NO
- Tissue paper
- Ribbons and bows
- Plastic gift bags
- Bubble wrap and Styrofoam
- Puffy mailing envelopes
- Used paper plates and cups
- Napkins and paper towels
- Christmas lights or electronics (Residents can take Christmas lights to Biltmore Iron & Metal for recycling.)
Disposing of your Christmas tree
The City of Asheville Sanitation Division will collect natural Christmas trees on their regular brush collection routes. Christmas trees must be free of all lights, ornaments, tinsel, stands, and other materials. Place trees at the curb by 7 a.m. on the Monday of your regular brush collection week. The trees will be taken to Riverside Stump Dump and recycled into mulch.
Residents can also drop off Christmas trees for recycling at the following locations:
- Buncombe County Landfill (81 Panther Branch Road)
- Private yard waste facilities
Artificial trees in reusable condition can be donated to Goodwill or other reuse organization. Artificial trees that can’t be donated should be called in for bulky trash collection to 828-251-1122.
The AIR Passport is your buy-one-get-one (BOGO)* ticket to some of Buncombe County’s highly acclaimed independent restaurants. Visit an old favorite or try a new member of the area’s vibrant independent restaurant community. AIR Passports make great gifts, but they go fast.
The AIR Passport offers BOGO from 60 area eateries with discounts up to $15 per participating restaurants. All proceeds from the AIR Passport go to benefit the ongoing efforts of AIR to keep Asheville’s food scene eclectic and authentic.
“It is one of our largest fundraisers of the year,” Anderson said. “We are able to use these funds throughout the year for educational classes, events and other opportunities for our members and their staff.”
Participating restaurants in the 2020 AIR Passport:
| 828 Pizzeria North | Ducker Tea Room | Rosabees |
| 828 Pizzeria South | Early Girl DT | Rosetta’s |
| AUX Bar | Early Girl West | Roux |
| Baked Pie North | Early Girl North | Rustic Grape |
| Baked Pie South | Farm Burger | Sante |
| The Barrelhouse | French Broad Choc | Sawhorse |
| Bhramari | The Glass Onion | The Social Lounge |
| The Bier Garden | The Grey Eagle | Strada |
| Black Bear BBQ | Hemingway’s Cuba | Sunny Point |
| The Blackbird | Isa’s Bistro | Tupelo Honey DT |
| Blue Dream Curry | Jack of the Wood | Tupelo Honey South |
| Bouchon | Karen Donatelli | Daphne-Twisted Laurel |
| Button & Co Bagels | The Laughing Seed | Twisted Laurel West |
| Buxton Hall | Little Jumbo | Ultimate Ice Cream N |
| The Cantina | The Lobster Trap | Ultimate Ice Cream E |
| Chai Pani | Luella’s North | Vinnie’s Italian |
| Chestnut | Luella’s South | Well Played |
| Chupacabra | The Native Social | White Labs |
| Collaboratory | Pack’s Tavern | White Duck Taco DT |
| Copper Crown | The Oysterhouse | White Duck Taco RAD |
| The Corner Kitchen | The Red Stag Grill | White Duck Taco South |
| Creekside Taphouse | RendezVous |

“Dressing for the Occasion” offers visitors a window into the style, culture, and feel of mid-century America. The family’s clothing and accessories weave together the roles of Carl Sandburg as a prominent writer, celebrity, father, and husband. This temporary exhibit offers an exciting opportunity for the public to view objects that are normally in storage or in the possession of Sandburg family members. Tours of the Sandburg Home are offered daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Tickets are available first come, first served, each day from the visitor information area in the ground level of the Sandburg Home.
Nearly every room in the historically furnished house museum will be included in the exhibit. Visitors will see the characteristic scarves Carl Sandburg wore as he played his guitar and sang folk songs to entertain his family and guests, the dress Lilian Sandburg wore to meet President Lyndon B. Johnson, and many other mid-century pieces worn by the Sandburgs and their daughters. Historic photographs, paired with the clothing, will provide context.
Brace yourself for a Singing, Dancing, Comedy Revolution that is chock-full of references to the wonderful world of Broadway!
From the creator of Forbidden Broadway comes the parody of the most talked about Broadway musical phenomenon of the 21st century. Not simply a send-up of the original, this story is interspersed with outrageous references to Chicago, West Side Story, The King And I, Sweeney Todd, and more! Even the stars of the original cast are comically eviscerated and joined by caricatures of living Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, Barbra Streisand, and Bernadette Peters.
Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just like to laugh, there’s something for everyone in this fresh, new musical parody!
HIGHLIGHTS + FEATURES
Collectively, this specially curated lineup of experiences is a welcoming space for ALL, while centering the celebratory and gratitude-based culture that we know to be Kwanzaa. As a cultural tradition reflective of those from the African diaspora, Kwanzaa took root in the United States in 1966, and for many is more than simply a 7-day holiday, but also a reflection of the way we would like to build community year-round. Event features + highlights include ::
- Community event rooted in art, culture, and heritage co-organized by adé PROJECT, Southside Rising + friends!
- Celebration of the original Black Nativity: Liberation Holiday team + cast, along with an unveiling/viewing of a featured film on this community production.
- Special holiday meal prepared by The Ettison Group, available at the event and to residents of the Asheville public housing communities.
- Showcasing of Southside Stories, a short film about the changes, people and culture of Asheville, NC’s historic black Southside neighborhoodproduced, produced by youth from Word on the Street/La Voz de los Jovenes
- Cultivating support for the Stephanie Maeweather Clothes Closet by accepting gently used winter coats (and clothes) on site..and more!

Stop in for the pub’s long running Traditional Irish Session each Sunday afternoon beginning around 3pm. Many talented local musicians come from WNC to jam away into the night – all on our pub stage! Come see why Jack of the Wood is Asheville’s favorite neighborhood pub!
At least 7 Fairytale Princesses and Santa Clause will take the stage for a Mini Concert, Dance Party, Christmas Storytime, Karaoke, Crafts, and Memories that will last a lifetime.
2 Professional Photos: Each child will receive a Professional Photos with the Princesses by award winning and nationally recognized photographer Ivana Desancic Photoart as well as a Professional Photo with Santa by another on of our favorite and award winning photographers, 10th Moon Photoagraphy.
Other festivities included with VIP ticket are: Visit Santa, 2019 Christmas Ornament making to commemorate your day, Build-Your-Own Snoman, other Crafts, and 2 FREE ‘Princess Vouchers’ good toward your choice of Princess Makeovers, Glitter Tattoos, or Balloon Wands.
Every attendee needs a ticket. Children 1 and under are free.
Beverages, Beer and Wine will be available for purchase through the Crowne Plaza. Songs Sealed Delivered does not profit from these offerings. There will be refreshments served in the Green Room before the Show from 4-5pm.
SCHEDULE
- Check-in is at 3:30 Doors open at 3:45
- 3:45-4:30Portraits with the Princesses
- 3:45-4:45 Crafts, and Vouchure Activities
- 4-4:30 Karaoke with Rapunzel(Sign-up sheet by stage)
- 4:30-5 Mini-Concert hosted by MC Punz: featuring our Frosted Sister, Our Island Warrior and a few of their fairytale friends. Santa may even pop in for a song!
- 5-5:45 Princess Christmas Dance Party, and Visits with Santa
- 5:45 Santa reads a Night Before Christmas
- Farewells and Christmas Wishes: a poem by the princesses
We are pleasesd to announce we will also have a quiet room designated for breast-feeding mothers, and children with sensory issues during the show. Additionally we will have light refreshments available before the show.
Proceeds for this event support our ‘Be the Good’ Fund and our continued efforts to spinkle a little extra magic, joy, and kindness into our community through our volunteer work.
Brace yourself for a Singing, Dancing, Comedy Revolution that is chock-full of references to the wonderful world of Broadway!
From the creator of Forbidden Broadway comes the parody of the most talked about Broadway musical phenomenon of the 21st century. Not simply a send-up of the original, this story is interspersed with outrageous references to Chicago, West Side Story, The King And I, Sweeney Todd, and more! Even the stars of the original cast are comically eviscerated and joined by caricatures of living Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, Barbra Streisand, and Bernadette Peters.
Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just like to laugh, there’s something for everyone in this fresh, new musical parody!
This months Queer Comedy Party is getting festive! Join all your favorite local queer comics for a very queer holiday recital.
Standup, sketch and song all in one show
Tickets $10, VIP $15
General admission: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queer-comedy-party-a-very-queer-holiday-recital-tickets-84689188643
VIP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vip-queer-comedy-party-a-very-queer-holiday-recital-vip-tickets-84689802479
November 29
Downtown Street Lighting & Santa’s Arrival
5:00pm
The lighting of downtown holiday lights and Santa’s arrival kick off the holiday season in Downtown Hendersonville. The evening features entertainment, sing-along, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus at the Historic Courthouse on Main Street. Click for more information Downtown Hendersonville
November 8 – 17
Flat Rock Playhouse presents: “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”
Four kids travel through a wardrobe to the land of Narnia and learn of their destiny to free it with the guidance of a mystical lion! The play was based on the novel by C. S. Lewis. 828-693-0731 Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse
November 29 – December 23
Peppermint the Bear Scavenger Hunt
Free
Peppermint Bear will take you on a fun-filled bear hunt through downtown Hendersonville looking for her cubs. As you search for the cubs, visit at least 12 of the 22 downtown participating businesses to be eligible for prizes. Complete the entry form in the brochure and drop it in Peppermint’s mailbox, located in front of the Visitor Center, by December 23rd. For more details about the Scavenger Hunt, stop by the Visitor Center at 201 South Main Street.
December 7
Hendersonville Christmas Parade
10:00am
A traditional hometown Christmas parade travels along Main Street from Five
Points to Caswell Street. Sponsored by the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association. This year’s theme is the “The Magic of Christmas”. Visit the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association web site to download a Parade application. 828-692-4179
November 29 – December 22
Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage presents: “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas”
An all-new Christmas production follows up last year’s smash holiday hit. This original musical revue performed by your favorite Flat Rock Playhouse singers and dancers is filled with holiday cheer. Celebrate the holidays Vagabonds style! Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse
December 6
Olde Fashioned Hendersonville Christmas
Main Street / 5pm – 8pm
The Downtown merchants open their doors and invite holiday shoppers in with a festive window displays, decorations, caroling, music, and refreshments. 828-697-2232.
December 8
Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper
1pm-4pm
$20
The Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper is a self-guided tour of several inns and the Cookie Caper part of the tour is a delicious Christmas treat at each inn. The inns on tour include the 1898 Waverly Inn, Charleston Inn, Mill House Lodge, Echo Mountain Inn and Brightwaters Guesthouse. 828-697-3010
December 18 – January 1
Iceless Skating Rink
Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm
Admission: $10, Children 10 & under $5 (payment by cash or check only)
Enjoy ice-skating in Downtown Hendersonville this holiday season. The iceless rink is located at the Visitor Center on South Main Street. The synthetic surface is made from special polymers that does not require liquid, so it can be enjoyed year-round in any temperature. A curling lane is also available. Curling involves players sliding stones on the ice towards a target. Play a variety of free games while you wait your turn on the ice. Skate rental included in admission price. Admission: $10, Children $5 for ages 10 & under, with group rates available for groups of 10 or more, but must call to reserve a time for groups, $5 for for 30 minutes of curling. Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm. Operates weather permitting. Benefits the Henderson County America In Bloom Program, 828-768-4413 To learn more go to: Henderson County America in Bloom
December 20 – 22
Main Street Holiday Hayrides
5pm – 8pm
Free
Take a magical hayride through Historic Downtown Hendersonville among its twinkling lights and festive decorations. Board the tractor-drawn wagon ride at the Visitor Center, located at 201 South Main Street. Reservations are not accepted, first-come, first-served basis.


“Dressing for the Occasion” offers visitors a window into the style, culture, and feel of mid-century America. The family’s clothing and accessories weave together the roles of Carl Sandburg as a prominent writer, celebrity, father, and husband. This temporary exhibit offers an exciting opportunity for the public to view objects that are normally in storage or in the possession of Sandburg family members. Tours of the Sandburg Home are offered daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Tickets are available first come, first served, each day from the visitor information area in the ground level of the Sandburg Home.
Nearly every room in the historically furnished house museum will be included in the exhibit. Visitors will see the characteristic scarves Carl Sandburg wore as he played his guitar and sang folk songs to entertain his family and guests, the dress Lilian Sandburg wore to meet President Lyndon B. Johnson, and many other mid-century pieces worn by the Sandburgs and their daughters. Historic photographs, paired with the clothing, will provide context.
Skate, Roll, & Stroll is a disability-friendly time on the Big Ice! Come out in your wheelchair or walker, be pulled around the ice on a sled or in a wagon, walk on the ice or try your hand at ice skating!
Skate Roll and Stroll sessions will be held from 10am – 12pm. Ice walkers are free and available first come, first served. Guests are encouraged to bring their own sleds, wagons, and helmets. Volunteers will be available to assist with guests as needed.
This event is free of charge and offers free parking in the VIP lot off of Church Street. Free ADA parking is available in the loading dock parking lot off of Academy Street. Be sure to arrive early at 9:30am to lace up your skates!






