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.
Students at the Visual Arts Preschool at Roots + Wings School of Art and Design engage with pre-K education fundamentals through a dynamic, arts based curriculum. Literacy, numeracy, social skills, community building, cultural and environmental studies are approached through an art and design thinking lens, as students explore learning concepts experientially across multiple platforms.
The Roots + Wings Visual Arts Preschool ‘Best of 2018’ collection is a cross section of the diverse pre-K education program and includes investigations into art movements, community and culture, storytelling, and creative play.
The Biltmore Estate has been planning the largest exhibition in its historic gardens for almost a decade. And finally, last week, Chihuly at Biltmore opened with a mega installation of glass sculptures from the famous artist Dale Chihuly. Tens of thousands of glass pieces from all around the world reside in 14 locations around the Estate (which is the very first large-scale N.C. Chihuly installation).
The exhibition is up from now until Oct. 7th, free admission with a Biltmore day pass (and free for annual pass holders). Chihuly at Nightis a special, ongoing event where the glass sculptures are lit up, plus live music in the gardens + a wine bar. Tickets are $37.50 for kids + range from $65 – 75 for adults ($10 discount for pass holders).
Three new works were blown just for Biltmore, and 6 new compositions were put together.
Open 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. Advance tickets are rquired. It’s safe, scary fun for the whole family! Kids will enjoy the Halloween shows and trick-or-treating. And take a chilling journey into the night on the Ghost Train – if you dare!
It’s hard not to crack a smile while enjoying amazing views of Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge from on top of the Chimney. Capture photos of your family and friends enjoying the Park and enter them into our Smiles of Spring Photo Contest for a chance to win fabulous prizes. We’ll use the winning entries on our website and Facebook album, and you’ll win some fun prizes. Photos must be taken within the Chimney Rock section of the Park.
GREAT PRIZES FOR THE WINNERS:
First Place – An overnight getaway to Hickory Nut Gorge with a stay at the historic 1927 Lake Lure Inn & Spa, two passes to Chimney Rock, brunch for two at the 1927 Lake Lure Inn & Spa, and two tickets for a tour with Lake Lure Boat Tours
Second Place – A Chimney Rock prize package including two passes to Chimney Rock, lunch for two at the Old Rock Café and two tickets for a tour with Lake Lure Boat Tours.
People’s Choice – Selected by our Facebook fans, the winning photo will be featured as the cover photo of our Facebook page for two weeks and the cover of our Pinterest board of winning photos. Prize includes two Park admission tickets, lunch for two at the Old Rock Café and a $20 gift certificate for Old Time Photo in Chimney Rock Village.
CONTEST RULES:
There is no fee to enter the contest. All photographs must be taken inside Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park only in areas accessible to guests between June 21, 2018- Sept. 21, 2018. The contest is open to amateur and professional photographers.
Up to three photos per person can be submitted via any of the following ways to be eligible to win:
Facebook: First, like the Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park page and share our photo contest post on your wall. Then post your photo to our wall with the photographer’s name and a brief caption (25-75 words) through your personal Facebook account. Next, send us a private message including your contact information specified in rule #3.
Pinterest: First, re-pin our photo contest pin to one of your boards and follow our 2017 The Different Seasons of Chimney Rock Spring Photo Contest Board so we can easily contact you. Then pin your photo with the hashtags #chimneyrock AND #photocontest with your personal account, and include the photographer’s name and a brief caption (25-75 words).
Twitter: First, follow Chimney Rock Park and retweet our tweet about the photo contest. Then tweet your photo to @ChimneyRockPark with the photographer’s name and the hashtag #photocontest. Next, send us private messages with your brief photo caption.
E-mail: If you don’t have access to any social media sites listed above, you may email your digital photo with your contact information specified in rule #3 to [email protected].
Snail Mail: Send your print photo with the clearly marked photographer’s name, city & state, a brief typed photo caption and a phone number to: Photo Contest, Chimney Rock Management LLC, PO Box 39, Chimney Rock, NC 28720.
Every entry should be clearly labeled with the photographer’s name, city & state, a brief photo caption your photo of the Seasons of Chimney Rock, an email address and the best phone number to reach you.
Photos should be available at a minimum resolution of 1200 x 1600 pixels (1 MB minimum) to be eligible to win. Photos taken via smart phones, tablets and other mobile devices are welcome if they meet minimum requirements.
For entries showing human faces, you must list their name(s) and have written permission from any photographed person(s) to use their image.
Entries should reflect the photographer’s interpretation of a face of Chimney Rock. Emphasis will be placed on quality, composition and creativity. All entries may be used in promotions of Chimney Rock and park-related activities.
Digital images can be optimized but not dramatically altered with photo editing software. Black and white photographs are welcome.
Decisions of the judges are final.
Winners will be notified and announced at chimneyrockpark.com and on Chimney Rock’s social media channels.
For more information, call 1-800-277-9611 or email us at [email protected].
The North Buncombe Elementary PTO is hosting its 21st annual Fall Festival on September 21, 2018.
Our Fall Festival will be a fun night filled with family friendly games, concessions, entertainment, and inflatables. It is open to the entire community and is our school’s largest fundraiser.
We will have over 10 inflatables, including some just for little ones. Activities include sand art, crazy hair, ring toss, duck pond, dunk tank, troll toss, radar pitch, jousting, face paint, and a slime station to name a few!
Concessions include hot dogs, Chick fil la, chips, popcorn, drinks, funnel cakes, cotton candy, Kona Ice and more!
New this year – we will have local vendors from the community. Get your Christmas shopping done early!
All monies raised are utilized for school improvements, teacher allotments, school club sponsorship, and educational field trips.
Your support will fund many programs provided throughout the year for the benefit of North Buncombe Elementary School children and families.
https://www.facebook.com/events/232927690736248/
The 30th anniversary season of Downtown After 5, presented by Prestige Subaru, kicks off Friday, May 18 from 5-9pm. Downtown After 5 takes place the 3rd Friday of the month May – September and is held on North Lexington Avenue. Events are free and open to the public.
Explore the Zoo, Support Wildlife Conservation
- Enjoy fabulous food and libations.
- Explore Riverbanks Backstage.
- Feed the giraffes.
- Dance to live music.
- Bid on unusual silent and live auction items.
Proceeds support ongoing conservation and education efforts at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.
It’s Big Daddy’s 65th birthday. The mood is somber, despite the festivities, because a number of evils poison the gaiety: greed, sins of the past and desperate hopes for the future as the knowledge that Big Daddy is dying slowly makes the rounds.
When an Englishman arrives at a rural Georgia fishing cabin for some much needed relaxation, the wacky occupants give him an experience like none other. This laugh-out-loud comedy of crazy characters and misunderstandings is full of Southern charm, and is guaranteed to keep the audience laughing until they cry. Without a doubt, an evening you won’t soon forget! A full two-act production.
Presented by the Overlook Theatre Company
This year, Eliada will maintain some beloved attractions including the tractor ride, which now drives all the way around the Corn Maze, jumping pillow, corn kernel sand box, spider web climber, tube slides, and corn cannons.
Tuesday – Thursday: 9am-3pm
Friday: 9am-8pm
Saturday: 10am- 8pm
Sunday: 10am-6pm
Students at the Visual Arts Preschool at Roots + Wings School of Art and Design engage with pre-K education fundamentals through a dynamic, arts based curriculum. Literacy, numeracy, social skills, community building, cultural and environmental studies are approached through an art and design thinking lens, as students explore learning concepts experientially across multiple platforms.
The Roots + Wings Visual Arts Preschool ‘Best of 2018’ collection is a cross section of the diverse pre-K education program and includes investigations into art movements, community and culture, storytelling, and creative play.
The Biltmore Estate has been planning the largest exhibition in its historic gardens for almost a decade. And finally, last week, Chihuly at Biltmore opened with a mega installation of glass sculptures from the famous artist Dale Chihuly. Tens of thousands of glass pieces from all around the world reside in 14 locations around the Estate (which is the very first large-scale N.C. Chihuly installation).
The exhibition is up from now until Oct. 7th, free admission with a Biltmore day pass (and free for annual pass holders). Chihuly at Nightis a special, ongoing event where the glass sculptures are lit up, plus live music in the gardens + a wine bar. Tickets are $37.50 for kids + range from $65 – 75 for adults ($10 discount for pass holders).
Three new works were blown just for Biltmore, and 6 new compositions were put together.
Open 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. Advance tickets are rquired. It’s safe, scary fun for the whole family! Kids will enjoy the Halloween shows and trick-or-treating. And take a chilling journey into the night on the Ghost Train – if you dare!

New Belgium Brewing’s Tour de Fat Brings the Party Back
Humankind’s greatest invention – the bike – takes center stage once again
(FORT COLLINS) New Belgium Brewing’s Tour de Fat, a traveling beer, music and bicycle festival, will turn the party out in six cities this year, offering a one-of-a-kind way to raise money for local non-profits, celebrate self-propelled two-wheel travel and dress up as your alter ego while enjoying world-class beers and action-packed entertainment. It all kicks off on June 30 in Chicago, IL, and wraps up in Tempe, AZ, on October 6.
“Our love for bikes runs deep at New Belgium, all the way back to our founding, “explained Tour de Fat Brand Manager, Sam Sawyer. “Tour de Fat is our Bike Love manifested in a way that uniquely blends fundraising, beer, bikes and bemusement. We’re anxious to get this spectacle back on the road this summer and we hope everyone joins us in giving back to local communities.”
Now in its 19th year, New Belgium’s Tour de Fat has raised more than $5 million for partnering non-profits since its inception. Tickets will cost $15 (children 12 & under are free) and will be available in advance online at www.newbelgium.com/tdf or at any of the box offices for Tour de Fat venues (pending availability).
Most tour stops will feature the wildly popular costumed bicycle parade, headlining musical acts and other revelry, including a touring ensemble of comedians, cirque performers, and general mayhemists. The touring ensemble cast includes Handsome Little Devils, Sedan Halen, Daredevil Chicken, and KOLARS. All world-class performers, Daredevil Chicken are celebrating a particularly big year after delivering a winning performance on ABC’s “The Gong Show.”
“The goal for this year’s tour is to provide a low-cost, family-friendly event that’s jam packed with quality entertainment and amazing beers,” said Sawyer. “Tour de Fat is ever-evolving, and New Belgium’s employee owners are proud of the Tour de Fat’s carnival of creativity that gives back to communities.”
It’s almost time for fall fun on the farm! We invite YOU to bring your family or group to enjoy some good ole’ fashioned fun on the farm. It’s going to be a ball, y’all!
Open weekends Sept. 22 through Oct. 28!
– Hayride Hours – $9 per person
Sat: 10 am- 5 pm (last hayride leaves at 5)
Sun: 12-5 pm (last hayride leaves at 5)
– Corn Maze Hours – $7 ages 2-12 & $8 ages 13+
Sun- Fri: 12-6 pm
Sat: 10 am – 6 pm
**COMBO TICKETS** (maze and hayride)
$12 per person (ages 2 & up)
https://www.facebook.com/events/245157286277540/?event_time_id=245157302944205
Come celebrate the harvest season at our 4th Annual Growltemberfest! Experience the tastiest German Fare and say, “Prost!” while drinking a frothy Marzen from our limited edition stein, while supplies last. As they say, “Gute Luete Trinken Gutes Bier!” (Good People Drink Good Beer!)
We’ll be featuring Oktoberfest Biers, Pumpkin Beers, & Several Specialty beers, plus a unique food menu of traditional German Fare.
Oktoberfest Biers:
Weihenstephaner – Oktoberfest
Spaten – Oktoberfest
Paulaner – Oktoberfest Weiss
Sierra Nevada – Oktoberfest
Warsteiner – Oktoberfest
Hacker Pschorr – Oktoberfest
Thomas Creek – Oktoberfest
Southern Barrel – Oktoberfest
13 Stripes – Von Stuben
Avery – The Kaiser
Pumpkin Beers:
Dogfish Head – Punkin’
New Belgium – Atomic Pumpkin
Southern Tier – Warlock
Shipyard – Pumpkinhead
Ace – Pumpkin Cider
Alltech – Kentucky Pumpkin
Avery – Rumpkin
Captain Lawrence – Autumn Blaze
Elysian – Night Owl
Brooklyn – Post Road Pumpkin Ale
Original Music Line-up:
12:30 – 2:30pm My Girl My Whiskey & Me
3:30 – 6:00pm The Passing Scene
7:00 – 9:00pm Amongst The Trees
Stay Tuned for more details!
*Must be 21+ with valid ID to consume alcohol.
**Beer and food menu subject to change
The event is indoor/ outdoor and admission is free.
Children and Pets are welcome. (No pets inside due to DHEC regulations)
https://www.facebook.com/events/593492551030368/
It’s that time again! Come and celebrate the Autumn Equinox with the fairies! As always, all activities are free as a THANK YOU for being your sparkly selves! We will have henna and glitter tattoos, live music, camp fires, a live MAGIC SHOW and pumpkin painting. The festivities begin at 6pm. This is a magical night of mystery and mahem open to all ages!
https://www.facebook.com/events/521231808337725/
The labyrinth is an ancient prayer wheel, known to us in the beauties and power of Greek mythology. Sabra Ball will set the intention of this thanksgiving prayer and wea t Mother Grove Goddess Temple invite you to add your own thanks to our sacred walk. This event is free and open to the respectful public. Please consider a donation of non-perishable food items for the temple’s food pantry.
https://www.facebook.com/events/715546722133070/
It’s Big Daddy’s 65th birthday. The mood is somber, despite the festivities, because a number of evils poison the gaiety: greed, sins of the past and desperate hopes for the future as the knowledge that Big Daddy is dying slowly makes the rounds.

When an Englishman arrives at a rural Georgia fishing cabin for some much needed relaxation, the wacky occupants give him an experience like none other. This laugh-out-loud comedy of crazy characters and misunderstandings is full of Southern charm, and is guaranteed to keep the audience laughing until they cry. Without a doubt, an evening you won’t soon forget! A full two-act production.
Presented by the Overlook Theatre Company
This year, Eliada will maintain some beloved attractions including the tractor ride, which now drives all the way around the Corn Maze, jumping pillow, corn kernel sand box, spider web climber, tube slides, and corn cannons.
Tuesday – Thursday: 9am-3pm
Friday: 9am-8pm
Saturday: 10am- 8pm
Sunday: 10am-6pm
Students at the Visual Arts Preschool at Roots + Wings School of Art and Design engage with pre-K education fundamentals through a dynamic, arts based curriculum. Literacy, numeracy, social skills, community building, cultural and environmental studies are approached through an art and design thinking lens, as students explore learning concepts experientially across multiple platforms.
The Roots + Wings Visual Arts Preschool ‘Best of 2018’ collection is a cross section of the diverse pre-K education program and includes investigations into art movements, community and culture, storytelling, and creative play.
The Biltmore Estate has been planning the largest exhibition in its historic gardens for almost a decade. And finally, last week, Chihuly at Biltmore opened with a mega installation of glass sculptures from the famous artist Dale Chihuly. Tens of thousands of glass pieces from all around the world reside in 14 locations around the Estate (which is the very first large-scale N.C. Chihuly installation).
The exhibition is up from now until Oct. 7th, free admission with a Biltmore day pass (and free for annual pass holders). Chihuly at Nightis a special, ongoing event where the glass sculptures are lit up, plus live music in the gardens + a wine bar. Tickets are $37.50 for kids + range from $65 – 75 for adults ($10 discount for pass holders).
Three new works were blown just for Biltmore, and 6 new compositions were put together.
Open 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. Advance tickets are rquired. It’s safe, scary fun for the whole family! Kids will enjoy the Halloween shows and trick-or-treating. And take a chilling journey into the night on the Ghost Train – if you dare!
Each Tuesday and Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m., April through October, trained volunteer guides lead small groups of participants along woodland trails and through a variety of forest types. Depending on the season, topics of discussion include wildflowers, plant and tree identification, natural history, and the cultural and land use history of The North Carolina Arboretum. Guides may include areas such as the Natural Garden Trail and Bent Creek.
Programs are held rain or shine and participants should dress appropriately for the weather. Individuals should also wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Walks last 1.5- 2.5 hours, depending upon the interest of the group, and are approximately one to two miles in length. Due to length and content, this program is not recommended for children under 8 years of age.
Walks begin in the Baker Exhibit Center Lobby and space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Groups of five or more are required to pre-register by calling 828-665-2492. Walks are FREE, however, donations to The North Carolina Arboretum Society are appreciated. Regular parking fees apply. Arboretum Society Members always park free.
Due to size limitations of the tours, groups of 10 or more are required to book a private guided trail tour.
SAVE THE DATE for the first annual Give to the Music Wine & Jazz Fest at Asheville Outlets Sunday, September 23rd from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., with a special VIP Hour from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. The event, sponsored by iHeart Radio – Asheville and Ingles Markets, will feature a variety of wines from across the region.
Tickets are $25 in advance online and $30 at the gate. Ticket cost includes live music, wine sampling, food tastings, educational seminars, games and more! Visit www.shopashevilleoutlets.com to purchase VIP or General Admission tickets. If you have any questions or would like more information about the event, please contact Toni Pisani at [email protected], 828-279-6396. Leary PR for Asheville Outlets.

SAVE THE DATE for the first annual Give to the Music Wine & Jazz Fest at Asheville Outlets Sunday, September 23rd from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., with a special VIP Hour from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. The event, sponsored by iHeart Radio – Asheville and Ingles Markets, will feature a variety of wines from across the region.
Tickets are $25 in advance online and $30 at the gate. Ticket cost includes live music, wine sampling, food tastings, educational seminars, games and more! Visit www.shopashevilleoutlets.com to purchase VIP or General Admission tickets. If you have any questions or would like more information about the event, please contact Toni Pisani at [email protected], 828-279-6396. Leary PR for Asheville Outlets.
