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.

Thursday, May 25, 2023
Asheville Beer Week: Wedge Run
May 25 @ 6:15 pm
Wedge Foundation

Join us every Thursday at 6:15 pm for our group run at Wedge Brewing Company’s Foundation location in Asheville’s River Arts District (5 Foundy Street).  Runners of all abilities are welcomed for this self-paced, self-guided jaunt along the French Broad River.  The run follows a route that is 7.5 miles out-and-back, but feel free to turn around whenever you want for a shorter option.

While we are spoiled with an abundance of singletrack trails, fire roads, and dirt roads in and around Asheville, flat road runs are harder to find.  The Wedge Run was started in the Spring of 2012 to put a flat run on the calendar every week on a no-brainer out-and-back route.  Oh yeah – we like finishing the run at a brewery, too.

We realize that Wedge Run has had a reputation of being a hammerfest. There is some truth to that – for many runners it is a good opportunity to go fast with friends.  However, every week there are athletes of all abilities running a variety of paces and distances.  This run is a great venue for an easy short jog, a long run, or anything in-between.

Summary:
– 6:15 pm
– Meet in the Wedge at Foundation parking lot.
– Run is self-guided and self-paced.
– Route is out-and-back from Wedge to the end of the Hominy Creek Greenway (7.5 miles). 3, 4, 6 mile options available by turning around early!
– New runners get a FREE beer (courtesy of the Asheville Running Collective).

Friday, May 26, 2023
NOC Paddling School
May 26 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

Voted “Best Place to Learn” by Outside, NOC Paddling School has taught more paddlers than anyone else, with 50 years of experience going into every class. Our commitment to the sport and to providing the best possible instruction has not waivered. So come and let us be your respected and experienced instructor.

Wild West Adventure Trips w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
May 26 all-day
various locations
Work out for free at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center
May 26 all-day
Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Work out for free at Stephens-Lee Community Center
May 26 all-day
Stephens-Lee Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Forest Bathing with Fireflies
May 26 @ 7:45 pm – 10:45 pm
tba
This magical Firefly Forest Bathing experience takes place in a peaceful forest about 1 hr from downtown Asheville. To protect this fragile environment and the elusive fireflies we hope to visit, we release the exact location to registered guests 3 days in advance of the walk.

Immerse yourself in the magic of twilight and experience the wonders of nighttime in the Blue Ridge Mountains. From sunset and starry skies to fireflies, we’ll marvel at Mother Nature’s light show as we explore the forest, hoping to encounter the elusive Blue Ghost firefly species!

 

This is a unique opportunity to unplug in a peaceful setting with a series of invitations led by a certified forest therapy guide that invite you to connect more deeply to the environment around you. Quiet your mind and awaken your senses as we sink into the heightened awareness of this special evening experience. Together, we’ll deepen our relationship with nature, community and ourselves. The best part: there’s no right or wrong way to forest bathe; just bring an open heart, adventurous spirit and be yourself. All is welcome in the forest.

 

This special offering takes place on only 4 evenings in 2023 with group sizes limited to 12 for a more intimate experience.

FAQ & Important Info:

?? Secret Location: This magical Firefly Forest Bathing experience takes place in a peaceful forest about 1 hr from downtown Asheville. To protect this fragile environment and the elusive fireflies we hope to visit, we release the exact location to registered guests 3 days in advance of the walk.

????? Are firefly sightings guaranteed? Sadly, nope, we cannot guarantee that the fireflies will show themselves. It’s all up to Mother Nature and the Fireflies themselves!

?? Make it private! Schedule an exclusive walk for your group & get the fireflies all to yourselves. Private walks are available daily May 25 – June 4 (with the exception of Fri/Sat evenings). If the date you’re hoping for isn’t listed on our website calendar, call us! We’ll always accommodate if we can.

?? Is this experience family friendly? This tour lasts until approximately 10:30pm. If this isn’t too late for your littles, we welcome children 12+ for both public and private firefly tours. The Blue Ghost habitat is very fragile so children won’t be able to roam freely & will need to stick closely to the group. Please keep this in mind when deciding if this tour is right for your family.

??‍??Though we’ll walk less than a mile along a gentle, easy path, you’ll be navigating the trail at night and will need heightened awareness of roots, uneven terrain, and obstacles. Because of these parameters, this walk is not appropriate for anyone with mobility issues, medical concerns, or injuries.

Saturday, May 27, 2023
NOC Paddling School
May 27 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

Voted “Best Place to Learn” by Outside, NOC Paddling School has taught more paddlers than anyone else, with 50 years of experience going into every class. Our commitment to the sport and to providing the best possible instruction has not waivered. So come and let us be your respected and experienced instructor.

Senior Games and SilverArts
May 27 all-day
Buncombe County
man running and woman standing in front of artwork, Asheville-Buncombe Senior Games logo

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) challenges community members to make 2023 a record breaking year for Asheville-Buncombe Senior Games and SilverArts. The weeks-long festival celebrates the transformative ability of sports and the arts to foster friendship and wellness. There is a $10 fee to participate and online registration opens Feb. 6 at ncseniorgames.org.

“We know many people discovered or rediscovered their love for sports, performing, and literary and visual arts during the pandemic and this is the perfect time to share that talent with our community – so anyone who’s ages 50 or better should sign up,” according to Colt Miller, APR Athletic Coordinator and local Senior Games contact. “While many participants advance to the state and national competitions, the main focus isn’t winning, but showcasing the incredible talent found among active adults right here at home. This is also the perfect opportunity to try something new! In the past, we’ve had people who had never played a sport or worked in a particular medium who turned out to be naturals.”

The event is one of 53 local games officially-sanctioned by North Carolina Senior Games, the largest senior Olympic program in the nation. The schedule includes competitions and demonstrations to exercise the mind and body in April and May at locations throughout Buncombe County.

All events welcome spectators. Interested community members can print a schedule or pick one up at any APR community center. APR hosts Asheville-Buncombe Senior Games and SilverArts with Black Mountain Parks & Recreation, Buncombe County Parks & Recreation, and Henderson County Parks & Recreation.

Sports and Arts

Sports include bowling, croquet, golf, mini golf, track and field (including race walk and power walking), cycling, archery, swimming, billiards, badminton, cornhole, horseshoes, pickleball, basketball shooting, shuffleboard, and tennis. Age categories start at 50 and increase at five year intervals.

SilverArts categories are classified as Heritage (quilting, woodwork, crochet, basket weaving, jewelry, needlework, tole/decorative painting, weaving, knitting, pottery, stained glass, woodcarving, woodworking, and woodturning), Visual (acrylics, drawing, mixed media, oil, pastels, film photography, digital photography, sculpture, and watercolor), Performing (comedy/drama, dance, vocal, instrumental, and line dance), Literary (poetry, short story, essay, and life experiences), and Cheerleading. Art pieces will be displayed at Pack Memorial Library.

 

For questions or more information, please contact Colt Miller at (828) 707-2376 or [email protected].

 

Schedule at a Glance

 

For questions or more information, please contact Colt Miller at (828) 707-2376 or [email protected].

Wild West Adventure Trips w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
May 27 all-day
various locations
Work out for free at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center
May 27 all-day
Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Work out for free at Stephens-Lee Community Center
May 27 all-day
Stephens-Lee Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Asheville Beer Week: Beer City 20k Relay Green Man Brewery
May 27 @ 7:30 am – 11:00 am
Green Man Brewery

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find Asheville North Carolina. With it’s clean mountain water, Asheville has a long legacy of beer brewing and now hosts over 30 craft breweries as well as some of the best breweries in the country. On the top of many lists of must see cities for the beer enthusiasts, this mountain town is also a mecca for runners, bikers and hikers alike. We are beyond excited to be hosting the Beer City Relay again in 2023, an event that encapsulates running and craft beer. Our host brewery for 2023 is Green Man Brewery. Established in 1997, Green Man Brewing celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2022. They’ve had many years to prefect their beers and you can taste it. The event is meant to be a fun 5k or 10k relay with a team aspect. The course consists of one 5k loop. Teams of 4 will each complete the 5k course 1 time in relay. Teams of 2 will each complete the 5k course twice in relay to run a 10k.Single runners 5k option. Runners will run the 5k loop once and need no other team members.

The event is meant to be a fun 5k or 10k relay with a team aspect.  The course consists of one 5k loop.

Teams of 4 will each complete the 5k course 1 time in relay.

Teams of 2 will each complete the 5k course twice in relay to run a 10k.

Single runners 5k option. Runners will run the 5k loop once and need no other team members.

Race Day – Saturday May 27th

First Wave of Runners starts at – 8:00am

Starting Line  and relay exchange – just across from Green Man’s Green Mansion at 27 Buxton Ave.

Black Mountain Pickleball
May 27 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Cragmont Assembly Lassiter Family Center (Gym)
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

9:00 – Noon
Lower Tennis Courts
Cost for play is $2.00.

Black Mountain Pickleball is an informal group, not a membership-based club, that exists to promote Pickleball in the Town of Black Mountain and the greater Swannanoa Valley.  Benefits include a sense of community, organized play, and much more.

Blue Ridge Roller Derby Skoolz Out! Bout
May 27 @ 1:00 pm
Smoky Mountain Event Center

School’s out and it’s time for the fun to begin! Come join us for a full day of roller derby at the Smoky Mountain Event Center on Saturday May, 27, 2023. Doors open at 1 p.m.
2 p.m. our Blue Ridge Roller Derby juniors take on the Smoky Mountain juniors
4 p.m. the Blue Ridge Roller Derby Retrogrades face the Smoky Mountain Roller Girls
6 p.m. the Blue Ridge Roller Derby Y’all Stars will be pitted against Steel Hurtin of Steel City Roller Derby from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

There will be food vendors, half time games for all ages with sweet prizes to win and so much roller derby!
Get your tickets at the door or online: $10 for adults, $5 for teens and free for kids 11 and under.
Our fans are the best so come be a part of this incredible community!

Asheville Beer Week: $5 PAY TO PLAY PICKUP VOLLEYBALL
May 27 @ 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Highland Brewing Company
$5 pay-to-play volleyball. Check in at the bar or Highland Outpost.
Sunday, May 28, 2023
NOC Paddling School
May 28 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

Voted “Best Place to Learn” by Outside, NOC Paddling School has taught more paddlers than anyone else, with 50 years of experience going into every class. Our commitment to the sport and to providing the best possible instruction has not waivered. So come and let us be your respected and experienced instructor.

Wild West Adventure Trips w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
May 28 all-day
various locations
Work out for free at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center
May 28 all-day
Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Work out for free at Stephens-Lee Community Center
May 28 all-day
Stephens-Lee Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Monday, May 29, 2023
Work out for free at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center
May 29 all-day
Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Work out for free at Stephens-Lee Community Center
May 29 all-day
Stephens-Lee Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

‘Sparkle Time’ Holistic Exercise
May 29 @ 10:30 am
Avery’s Creek Community Center

Mondays and Wednesdays, . Aerobic, strengthening, balancing, flexibility. $5 community service price. Led by 40-year Holistic Health instructor.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023
Work out for free at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center
May 30 all-day
Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Work out for free at Stephens-Lee Community Center
May 30 all-day
Stephens-Lee Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Black Mountain Pickleball
May 30 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Cragmont Assembly Lassiter Family Center (Gym)
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

9:00 – Noon
Lower Tennis Courts
Cost for play is $2.00.

Black Mountain Pickleball is an informal group, not a membership-based club, that exists to promote Pickleball in the Town of Black Mountain and the greater Swannanoa Valley.  Benefits include a sense of community, organized play, and much more.

Asheville Tourists vs. Wilmington Blue Rocks
May 30 @ 6:00 pm
McCormick Field

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

Wednesday, May 31, 2023
Work out for free at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center
May 31 all-day
Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Work out for free at Stephens-Lee Community Center
May 31 all-day
Stephens-Lee Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

‘Sparkle Time’ Holistic Exercise
May 31 @ 10:30 am
Avery’s Creek Community Center

Mondays and Wednesdays, . Aerobic, strengthening, balancing, flexibility. $5 community service price. Led by 40-year Holistic Health instructor.

Asheville Tourists vs. Wilmington Blue Rocks
May 31 @ 11:00 am
McCormick Field

It’s Education Day at McCormick Field with a special 11:05 AM first pitch.