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, October 5, 2023
Queer Music Exploration
Oct 5 @ 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts

Queer Music Exploration – Students will explore guitar, bass, drums, singing and piano with a focus on learning music by artists from the LGBTQ+ community. Students will have the chance to interact with their peers and share their experiences through music.

Friday, October 6, 2023
16th Annual HEAL Conference
Oct 6 all-day
Mountain Area Health Education Center

Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders (CRC for ED) and Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) are pleased to present the 2023 HEAL Conference. This program addresses disordered eating and eating disorders recovery by experts speaking on the most current research and practices. HEAL offers professional development and networking for providers as well as education for the general public. The annual conference, now in its 16th year, is expanding through collaboration between CRC for ED and MAHEC.

The 2023 program includes educational sessions, a networking event, and a care-for-the-provider retreat after lunch Friday!

Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Oct 6 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Jones Park Rebuilding Volunteer Opportunity
Oct 6 all-day
online
JONES PARK IS BEING REBUILT AS CANDACE PICKENS PARK OCTOBER 2023!

We need your help to get this built – it will be a volunteer-built park October 4-8, 2023.

Rendering of the future Candace Pickens Park to be built October 2023. Learn more about Playgrounds by Leathers.

Sign Up to Help!

*** If you’d like to volunteer to help please SIGN UP HERE ***

Before the build dates it will take a lot of coordination – we’re looking for a few good people to help as:

Childcare Coordinators – providing supervision and fun activities for kids during construction

Food Coordinators – acquiring food from the community for each day of the build

Want to help? Know someone who might be able to help with one of these coordinator positions? Email: [email protected] or call David Rodgers 828.545.9571

In mid-May we will have a design similar to the former playground to present to the community.

Donate to help build the park!

Click here to make a donation via PayPal to Asheville City Schools Foundation, our partner for this project. 

There will be a transaction fee of 2.89% plus .30 USD for PayPal transactions. For transactions of $500 or more the Asheville City Schools Foundation (ACSF) strongly recommends checks or wire transfers. For wire transfers or the transfer of stock contact Rebecca Abide at [email protected]. ACSF is a 501(c)3 organization and donations are normally tax deductible. However, always consult your taxadviser. Cash should be conveyed in person, of course. 

Checks should be mailed to:

Asheville City Schools Foundation
P.O. Box 3196
Asheville, NC 28802 Foundation
Memo: Candace Pickens Park

French Broad River Tour Madison County
Oct 6 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Ingles Market

Land of Sky Regional Council will offer a tour of each county in our region with a focus on how we can work together to protect the French Broad River while supporting the growth and development of region.

Media Arts Education + Career Day
Oct 6 @ 9:00 am
Tryon Fine Arts Center

Aspiring artists ages 6th Grade+ are invited to Drop In on October 6 from 9 AM to 2 PM for a Career & Education Fair focused on Media Arts!

Our booths, hosted by schools and businesses in the industry from all over the country, will lead you from pre-production to post production, giving you a taste of the different types of jobs out there, and giving you resources to get started.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect high education option, an internship, or a job, this fair is the perfect place for you.

Thank you for signing up for our Career & Education Day! We can’t wait to meet you!

You are invited to stay for the entire event and/or drop in:

Media Arts Education & Career Fair – 9 AM – 11:30 AM
Media Arts Classes: – 9 AM – 11:30 AM
Media Arts Education & Career Fair Keynote Speaker Linda Burns, PA Academy – 11:45 AM
Next Generation Student Film “Awe” Project – 1:30 PM – 2 PM
There will be room for the bus to pull in and unload on the left side of the building. They may park in the parking lot.

If your group would like to pack a lunch, there is a grassy area and an amphitheater that you are welcome to picnic on.

For more information, email Ashley at [email protected].

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 6 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Lightwire Theater presents The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare: The Next Generation – Student Series
Oct 6 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

This electrifying combination of theatre, dance, and technology brings classic tales to new light.

We begin with Aesop’s classic fable of The Tortoise and the Hare but continue the story — which finds them 10 years down the road, now with children of their own and exploring modern day distractions. Smart phones and video games create a new landscape of lost connections to life experiences. The Next Gen features Tortoise Junior and Li’l Hare in a whole new kind of race, where their adventures lead them into unexpected territory. Old Man Tortoise and Big Daddy Hare must come together despite their differences to find and save their children. What hurdles will they have to overcome to make it to the finish line?

With dazzling visuals, poignant storytelling and the creative use of music from classical to pop, this production brings this tale into a new brilliant light. Recommended for grades K-5. Connect with the artists in a post-show Q&A.

The Student Series is open to school groups, homeschoolers, community groups and families.

*This production contains lasers and strobe lights.

Lightwire Theater presents The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare: The Next Generation – Student Series
Oct 6 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

This electrifying combination of theatre, dance, and technology brings classic tales to new light.

We begin with Aesop’s classic fable of The Tortoise and the Hare but continue the story — which finds them 10 years down the road, now with children of their own and exploring modern day distractions. Smart phones and video games create a new landscape of lost connections to life experiences. The Next Gen features Tortoise Junior and Li’l Hare in a whole new kind of race, where their adventures lead them into unexpected territory. Old Man Tortoise and Big Daddy Hare must come together despite their differences to find and save their children. What hurdles will they have to overcome to make it to the finish line?

With dazzling visuals, poignant storytelling and the creative use of music from classical to pop, this production brings this tale into a new brilliant light. Recommended for grades K-5. Connect with the artists in a post-show Q&A.

The Student Series is open to school groups, homeschoolers, community groups and families.

*This production contains lasers and strobe lights.

Saturday, October 7, 2023
Jones Park Rebuilding Volunteer Opportunity
Oct 7 all-day
online
JONES PARK IS BEING REBUILT AS CANDACE PICKENS PARK OCTOBER 2023!

We need your help to get this built – it will be a volunteer-built park October 4-8, 2023.

Rendering of the future Candace Pickens Park to be built October 2023. Learn more about Playgrounds by Leathers.

Sign Up to Help!

*** If you’d like to volunteer to help please SIGN UP HERE ***

Before the build dates it will take a lot of coordination – we’re looking for a few good people to help as:

Childcare Coordinators – providing supervision and fun activities for kids during construction

Food Coordinators – acquiring food from the community for each day of the build

Want to help? Know someone who might be able to help with one of these coordinator positions? Email: [email protected] or call David Rodgers 828.545.9571

In mid-May we will have a design similar to the former playground to present to the community.

Donate to help build the park!

Click here to make a donation via PayPal to Asheville City Schools Foundation, our partner for this project. 

There will be a transaction fee of 2.89% plus .30 USD for PayPal transactions. For transactions of $500 or more the Asheville City Schools Foundation (ACSF) strongly recommends checks or wire transfers. For wire transfers or the transfer of stock contact Rebecca Abide at [email protected]. ACSF is a 501(c)3 organization and donations are normally tax deductible. However, always consult your taxadviser. Cash should be conveyed in person, of course. 

Checks should be mailed to:

Asheville City Schools Foundation
P.O. Box 3196
Asheville, NC 28802 Foundation
Memo: Candace Pickens Park

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 7 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Sunday, October 8, 2023
Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Oct 8 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Jones Park Rebuilding Volunteer Opportunity
Oct 8 all-day
online
JONES PARK IS BEING REBUILT AS CANDACE PICKENS PARK OCTOBER 2023!

We need your help to get this built – it will be a volunteer-built park October 4-8, 2023.

Rendering of the future Candace Pickens Park to be built October 2023. Learn more about Playgrounds by Leathers.

Sign Up to Help!

*** If you’d like to volunteer to help please SIGN UP HERE ***

Before the build dates it will take a lot of coordination – we’re looking for a few good people to help as:

Childcare Coordinators – providing supervision and fun activities for kids during construction

Food Coordinators – acquiring food from the community for each day of the build

Want to help? Know someone who might be able to help with one of these coordinator positions? Email: [email protected] or call David Rodgers 828.545.9571

In mid-May we will have a design similar to the former playground to present to the community.

Donate to help build the park!

Click here to make a donation via PayPal to Asheville City Schools Foundation, our partner for this project. 

There will be a transaction fee of 2.89% plus .30 USD for PayPal transactions. For transactions of $500 or more the Asheville City Schools Foundation (ACSF) strongly recommends checks or wire transfers. For wire transfers or the transfer of stock contact Rebecca Abide at [email protected]. ACSF is a 501(c)3 organization and donations are normally tax deductible. However, always consult your taxadviser. Cash should be conveyed in person, of course. 

Checks should be mailed to:

Asheville City Schools Foundation
P.O. Box 3196
Asheville, NC 28802 Foundation
Memo: Candace Pickens Park

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 8 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Monday, October 9, 2023
Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Oct 9 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 9 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Tuesday, October 10, 2023
Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 10 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Wednesday, October 11, 2023
Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Oct 11 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 11 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Thursday, October 12, 2023
Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 12 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Intro to Ukulele
Oct 12 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts

Students will receive a solid foundation in beginner Ukulele skills for vocalists. Chords, Rhythm patterns, and basic theory will be introduced through songs with an uplifting message. Students will also learn to play the song that the Songwriting Class will be writing and get to record it in the One Mic Studio.

Queer Music Exploration
Oct 12 @ 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts

Queer Music Exploration – Students will explore guitar, bass, drums, singing and piano with a focus on learning music by artists from the LGBTQ+ community. Students will have the chance to interact with their peers and share their experiences through music.

Friday, October 13, 2023
Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Oct 13 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Freaky Friday Funktion with Niles at One World West
Oct 13 all-day
One World Brewing West

Mark your calendars for the Freaky Friday Funktion with Niles at One World Brewing in West Asheville on Friday, October 13th! Joining Niles are fellow Atlanta producers Dopamine and Ace Taylor, along with Asheville’s very own Wij. Prepare for high-energy bass and house music, Funktion One sound from Dosobis, live painting by Art of Kiki, local artist vendors Much Love Jewelry, John Ebert Jewelry Art, and Ian Baker Glass, exceptional craft beer and cocktails, and spooky vibes!

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 13 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Saturday, October 14, 2023
Blue Ridge Audubon monthly bird walk
Oct 14 @ 8:00 am – 10:00 am
Jackson Park

Join the Blue Ridge Audubon, a chapter of the National Audubon Society for their monthly bird walk at Jackson Park, a renowned
birding location. On the 2nd Saturday of each month, meet at the Administration Building parking lot, located on Glover Street,
and join the group to see the many wonderful birds found at Jackson Park, Hendersonville’s largest park.8-10:00am.
828-684-0812. Free.

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 14 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Adult Audition Workshop
Oct 14 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

Class cost: $50

Min students: 8

Max students: 20

Class Dates: Saturday, October 14th

Time: 10am-2pm

Location: Hendersonville Theatre Main Stage

Must be 18+ to attend. The last day to receive a full refund is September 28, 2023. After September 28, 2023, no refund will be issued.

Advance registration is required. Registration deadline is Wednesday, October 11th at 5 pm.

Due to the time of day, feel free to bring some non-disruptive snacks and a water bottle.

Need-based scholarships are available upon application.

Class Description:
Do you feel like auditions are scary or overwhelming? Have you gone to several, but never gotten cast in a show? SO MUCH goes into the decisions directors make in the casting room. Let us help you get a leg up.

In this workshop, you will learn how to put your best foot forward, be the most prepared one in the room, and make dynamic and interesting choices that will make a lasting impression. This class will be rooted in the fundamental teachings of Michael Shurtleff’s book, Audition. We will take his lessons and apply them to cold readings and monologues* during the workshop. By the end of our time, we hope that you will feel more confident, creative and assured when you walk into your next audition.

*If you have an audition monologue or have one you have been considering, please feel free to bring it, along with a copy for the instructor. We will talk about how to cut a monologue for time without losing the meat of the piece. We will also talk about pairing monologues with songs for auditions.

Camping in the Old Style
Oct 14 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Cradle of Forestry

The Cradle of Forestry in America invites the public to explore a re-created campsite of the early 1900’s during its “Camping in the Old Style” event.  A classic camping interpretive team known as the Acorn Patrol demonstrates the low-tech/high-skill approach as practiced in the outdoors during what some historians consider the Golden Age of Camping.   

       During this time in history, the Pisgah National Forest was in its infancy. City folk were discovering the joys of outdoor recreation. It was a time when camping meant sleeping under canvas and cooking over an open fire. Here in the wood smoke, surrounded by the outdoor gear of a by-gone day, the traditional skills of camping will be practiced in the Cradle of Forestry’s scenic setting in the corral along the Biltmore Campus Trail.  

       Visitors can see fires ignited by flint, steel and friction, old-style campfire cookery, four different styles of period shelters, and traditional camp tools in use. Each camper has expertise in various aspects of woodcraft, history, nature study, and welcomes interacting with visitors and questions.   

     “Camping in the Old Style” is inspired by Horace Kephart, author of Camping and Woodcraft, originally published in 1906. Kephart’s approach to enjoying the outdoors holds lessons for today’s modern campers. 

Fall Open House #1 UNCA
Oct 14 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sherrill Center, Kimmel Arena

Open House gives high school seniors, transfer students, and their families a chance to learn about the people and experiences that make UNC Asheville special. Throughout the day, you will connect with current students, interact with faculty, tour campus and learn about the application and financial aid process. Not to mention, you’ll get to check out Asheville, one of the coolest cities in the country!


Accessibility

UNC Asheville is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. If you have any questions about access or to request reasonable accommodations that will facilitate your full participation in this event, please contact the Event Organizer (see below). Advance notice is necessary to arrange for accessibility needs.

Visitor Parking

Visitors may park in faculty/staff and All Permit lots from 5:00 p.m. until 7:30 a.m., Monday through Friday, and on weekends, holidays, and campus breaks. Visitors are not permitted to park in resident student lots at any time.
Prior to 5pm, any visitor (regardless of their reason for visit) need to adhere to the current practices listed on the parking website. Get your visitor parking permit here