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, February 8, 2024
NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Feb 8 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Conserving Carolina: Green Drinks
Feb 8 @ 6:00 pm
Trailside Brewing

Join us to learn about the latest developments on planning and construction of the Ecusta Trail, as well as potential trail enhancements and connections that could occur in the future. Initial construction of the Ecusta Trail will be bare bones, but there is the potential for many types of amenities that will vastly improve the user experience and involve community collaboration. During this presentation, Mark Tooley, president of Friends of Ecusta Trail (FOET), will discuss some of the ideas that are being discussed for future development of the trail. Studies have found that the more connectivity a trail has to other trails and popular destinations, the more useful and desirable it becomes. Mark will share information about how the Ecusta Trail connects with existing trails or those being planned in the region which will help provide connectivity for an enhanced user experience.

For more information, contact Pam Torlina, [email protected].

LaDonna Smith and Susan Hefner / John English and Kris Gruda
Feb 8 @ 7:00 pm
Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center

LaDonna Smith and Susan Hefner

LaDonna Smith and Susan Hefner have a long relationship of working together in creative collaborations. Beginning in 1976, Susan was part of a dance group of young improvisers who collaborated in one of the earliest TransMuseq concerts. She was only 16 years old at the time! Embarking on a career in dance & improvisation she worked with the Alwin Nicolais Dance Theater. She was Director/choreographer of Susan Hefner and Dancers as well as continual improvisatory explorations with LaDonna Smith and Davey Williams TransMuseq projects in Alabama as well as projects & improvisers in the Brooklyn-NYC scene. Significantly, she co-created performance art with percussionist Michael Evans and currently is curator of her Susan’s Salons in both Birmingham and Brooklyn.

Her work often grows from visual wit and ironic images, intended to deliver an irreverent message of freedom while lampooning societal rigidities. Zany images are brought to life through a feminist lens, and the dance language is drawn from physical manifestations of human emotions. Through a process of improvisation and revision she seeks a range of authentic expression, human and vulnerable. Susan and LaDonna will come together for one of a kind collaborative performance at BMCM+AC.

John English is an improviser and photographer from Black Mountain, North Carolina. Kris Gruda is an avant-garde guitarist, sound experimenter, and songwriter based in western North Carolina. He plays in solo and group contexts on electric or acoustic with or without electronics. His guitar-in-car album, Kris Gruda Plays for You, was released on Palilalia Records in 2023. FreeJazzRockSoulNoise.etc.

Friday, February 9, 2024
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Feb 9 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.

Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.

Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!

NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Feb 9 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Jenkins Branch Farm Hike
Feb 9 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Jenkins Branch Farm

Distance: 2.0 miles

Difficulty: Moderate (4/10), several steep inclines are present on the trail

 

Join us for a scenic hike around the picturesque 100-acre Jenkins Branch Farm, located just outside of Asheville. This hidden gem boasts a stunning knoll offering panoramic views of the Walnut Mountains and Black Mountains. Your guide for this nature-filled experience will be Katie Greer, our knowledgeable Community Engagement and Education AmeriCorps member.

Established in 2005, the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s Farmland Program was initiated to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of Western North Carolina and East Tennessee. Jenkins Branch Farm stands as a testament to this commitment, showcasing the beauty and significance of working agricultural lands.

What to Expect:

  • Spectacular Views: Enjoy a scenic hike that leads to a beautiful knoll, treating you to breathtaking 360-degree views of the Walnut Mountains and Black Mountains.
  • Educational Insights: Learn about the Farmland Program and the vital role it plays in preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage, guided by our dedicated AmeriCorps member, Katie Greer.
  • Community Connection: Engage with fellow nature enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community and shared appreciation for the importance of protecting our agricultural landscapes.

 

80s vs 90s Dance Party
Feb 9 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

All Ages

Rouge: A Cirque and Dance Concert
Feb 9 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Expect the unexpected! From Charlotte, Caroline Calouche & Co is making their debut in Asheville with Rouge: A Cirque and Dance Cabaret. Rouge features daring aerial acts, thrilling acrobatics and poetic dance that cannot be missed. The Madame of Ceremonies is your guide for a mesmerizing good time that holds audiences spellbound. Rouge is the perfect event for a date night or night out with friends.

https://www.carolinecalouche.org/

Rouge: Cirque and Dance Cabaret
Feb 9 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Expect the Unexpected!
Rouge features daring aerial acts, thrilling acrobatics and poetic dance that cannot be missed. The Madame of Ceremonies is your guide for a mesmerizing good time that holds audiences spellbound. Rouge is the perfect event for a date night or night out with friends.

Saturday, February 10, 2024
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Feb 10 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.

Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.

Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!

NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Feb 10 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Adult Beginner Tap 1: Intro to Tap
Feb 10 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Hendersonville Theatre

Does Tap dancing seem a little daunting? Is it something you always wanted to try but didn’t have the time to commit to months of classes at a time? Whether you are preparing for a show with tap involved or just interested in a new skill for fun, this class is for you. Allison Starling will break down the basics of Tap into easy-to-catch moves that build the foundation of any Tap number. This 8-week class is a comprehensive basics course that you don’t want to miss!

*Tap shoes required and not provided. Below is a link to some reasonably priced shoes. Make sure to order early so your shoes are here in time!

Adult Beginner Tap 2: Kicking it up a Notch
Feb 10 @ 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

It’s time to build on the basics you learned in Intro to Tap while still refining those foundational steps. Whether you are preparing for a show with tap involved or just interested in a new skill for fun, this class is for you. Allison Starling will break down the basics of Tap into easy-to-catch moves that build the foundation of any Tap number. This 8-week class is a continuation of beginner tap that will push you to learn harder steps and combinations while still allowing you to learn at your own pace!

WNC Dance Repertory Company Benefit Showcase
Feb 10 @ 5:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

WNC Dance Academy presents our annual winter benefit concert featuring the WNC Dance Repertory Company, Stewart/Owen Dance, and other professional local artists.

Going Nowhere Fast – Emo Night
Feb 10 @ 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
DSSOLVR

EMO NIGHT IS BACK BABY! THIS TIME, WE’RE GOING ON TOUR!

Get ready for…
🖤😭 DSSOLVR’S SUPER EMO VALENTINE’S WEEKEND! 😭🖤
02/10 in Asheville starting at 6pm

Featuring:
-Sing along with DJ XZANEINSANEX @zanebuchholz, @djdeckades, and @dj_sellout
-The Release of Emo Nightmare GF Sour
-Swoopy Hair Photo Booth
-One time only Emo long sleeve shirts
-The Return of L.G. FUAD Jello Shots
-VIP Tour Badges
-Probably more stuff that I forgot

Then the party continues, on Sunday with the BIG GAME playing in both taprooms. 😭💀🏈💀😭💀🏈💀😭💀🏈💀😭

Party on,
xXDSSOLVRXx

Sunday, February 11, 2024
Asheville Mardi Gras Parade: Secret Garden
Feb 11 all-day
The Funkatoriam

The Theme!

It’s our 17th annual official parade and the theme is: Secret Garden! March participants are welcome to riff on this theme or go in a completely different direction because, after all, we’re all about individuality!

Members March!

At least one representative of each krewe MUST be a member of Asheville Mardi Gras and must supply one parade volunteer. Keep in mind that the only way the parade survives is through membership support, so if more than one person joins up — we would certainly appreciate it! To become a member, CLICK HERE.

And, speaking of krewes …

Join a Krewe!

You’re welcome to march solo, or with a group of your friends, as part of a krewe. You may even be able to join one of our existing krewesAll we ask is that you dress up, show up and bring some goodies like candy or beads to hand out to the parade attendees.

Click here to sign up as a new krewe.

Kids Artistic Review Dance Competition
Feb 11 all-day
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

KAR is dedicated to producing world class dance events that provide rewarding and positive experiences for dancers, teachers, and parents. Our competitions give dancers across America the opportunity to showcase their talent and passion on the KAR stage. We also proudly acknowledge the achievements and excellence of dance teachers, choreographers, and parents and appreciate their efforts in helping to make dreams come true! KAR is honored to be recognized as America’s Favorite Dance Competition and look forward to seeing the amazing talent your city has to offer!

Kendra Bunch

(714) 826-8440 ext 1020
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Feb 11 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.

Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.

Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!

NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Feb 11 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Downtown Asheville Valentine’s Day Treasure Hunt – Walking Scavenger Hunt!
Feb 11 @ 2:00 pm
Dssolvr

Guests will meet at Dssolvr Asheville (63 N. Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801) and then depart with their treasure map on a walking team scavenger hunt where they will use their minds and feet to follow Valentine’s Day themed clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes to find and unlock the treasure chest for a grand prize!

The hunt involves walking a distance of up to 2.0 miles in total and will take place rain or shine, so long as the weather does not become dangerous. The hunt typically takes about 60 minutes to complete.

Children under 10 years old are welcome to participate for free with the purchase of an Adult ticket.

Valentine’s Chocolate and Wine Pairing
Feb 11 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Atelier Maison & Co.

Indulge in an intimate Chocolate & Wine Tasting hosted by Celeste King. Join us on Feb 10, 4-6 pm, at Atelier Maison & Co. Limited tickets at $28. Experience curated flavors from award-winning Chocolatiers – The Chocolate Fetish and Van’s Chocolates. Reserve your spot for a delightful Valentine’s weekend start!

Monday, February 12, 2024
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Feb 12 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.

Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.

Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!

NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Feb 12 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Feb 13 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.

Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.

Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!

NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Feb 13 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Saluda Library Speaker Series: Native Pollinators and the Habitats They Require
Feb 13 @ 2:00 pm
Saluda Branch, Polk County Libaries

Explore the beneficial creatures in your backyard through an exploration of the habitat needed to help pollinators survive and thrive. Take a deep dive into the life cycles of native bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, wasps, birds, and more. Learn how to care for your space throughout the year to support the widest diversity of creatures.
Brannen Basham and Jill Jacobs are owners of Spriggly’s Beescaping, a nature education and habitat restoration business with a special focus on native plants and native pollinators.
For more information, contact Pam Torlina, [email protected].

DRUM TAO 夢幻響
Feb 13 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Experience the thrilling rhythms of Japan, the electrifying energy of passionate, percussive performance and the otherworldly theatrical flair of these professional taiko drummers. With vibrant costumes, synchronized movements and thunderous beats, Drum Tao creates a mesmerizing spectacle that’s sure to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment — delivering the spirit of traditional Japanese drumming with all the excitement of contemporary culture.

Fat Tuesday Fiesta ft Tuxedo Junction
Feb 13 @ 7:00 pm
The Grey Eagle
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
-ALL AGES
-MIXED SEATED and STANDING SHOW with DANCE FLOOR

TUXEDO JUNCTION

Calling all music lovers, dancers, and supporters of a worthy cause! Celebrate Mardi Gras during a singular evening benefitting the Asheville Breakfast Rotary Foundation! Tuxedo Junction covers a HUGE variety of danceable hits from Swing Jazz to Classic Rock, Pop, Funk, Motown, Beach, Country, and Rockabilly! All proceeds go back into the community for charitable organizations and scholarships.

STEP AFRIKA!
Feb 13 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Concert Hall

Founded in 1994 by C. Brian Williams, Step Afrika! is the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping—a polyrhythmic, percussive dance form that uses the body as an instrument. Under Mr. Williams’ leadership, stepping has evolved into one of America’s cultural exports, touring more than 50 countries across the globe. Step Afrika! is one of the top 10 African American dance companies in the world.  Step Afrika! promotes stepping as a contemporary dance genre through critically acclaimed performances and arts education programs. Creatively engaging audiences in this nascent art form, the Company creates full-length productions that expand on stepping’s unique American history.

Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities; traditional West and Southern African dances; and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience. Performances are much more than dance shows; they integrate songs, storytelling, humor, and audience participation. The blend of technique, agility, and pure energy makes each performance unique and leaves the audience with their hearts pounding.

The Company reaches tens of thousands of Americans each year through a 50-city tour of colleges and theatres and performs globally as Washington, DC’s one and only Cultural Ambassador. Step Afrika! has earned Mayor’s Arts Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Arts Education (2005); Innovation in the Arts (2008); and Excellence in an Artistic Discipline (2012); and performed at the White House for President Barack Obama and the First Lady.

Critically Acclaimed works, such as The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence and Drumfolk, tour major U.S. cities. Step Afrika! is prominently featured at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture with an interactive exhibit on the art form of stepping.

Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Feb 14 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.

Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.

Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!