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.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), Grandfather Mountain is only selling tickets online.
Only a select number of tickets will be sold per day for certain time-slots to limit the number of guests in the park at one time, in accordance with the state of North Carolina’s phased “reopening” plan and social gathering guidelines.
Please check back closer to your visit for ticket availability. As of now, reservations are only available through June 21.
Each guest entering the park must have a ticket, which includes a time-slot. Prices are as follows:
Adult: $22
Senior (age 60+): $20
Child (ages 4-12): $9
AAA Adult: $20 (must present valid AAA card)
AAA Child: $8 (must present valid AAA card)

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.

Montreat was founded in 1897 by Rev. John Collins. Today we’ll learn about Montreat’s history from Joe and Mary Standaert, who literally wrote the book on it. This hike focuses on the history of Montreat, which was founded in 1897 by Rev. John Collins. The remnants of the Montreat hydroelectric facilities that were constructed in 1913 and in use until 1947 are visible on this moderate, 2.5-mile hike.
Difficulty: Moderate, 3.0 miles
Note: This event will also be repeated on September 13th in order to adhere social distancing and group gathering guidelines for the state of North Carolina.
UPDATE: In order to follow state regulations concerning the coronavirus, the Swannanoa Valley Museum has created new guidelines for its 2020 hikes. These guidelines and the 2020 hike schedule, will continue to evolve as the COVID situation changes. Please email [email protected] with any questions.
New hike guidelines:
- Sign-ins will be conducted outdoors, at the parking lot of the Black Mountain Savings Bank.
- There will be no carpooling, no pickup truck / driver shuttles, and a new limited hike size. All the series hikes have been redesigned to be either be out/back or loop hikes and the museum discourages any carpooling to the trailheads, unless with family members or trusted friends.
- No one exhibiting symptoms will be allowed on the hikes.
- Hikes are limited to 25 hikers (20 hikers plus leaders).
- SVM will not shuttle drivers in cars or pickup trucks as in the past.
- Hikers will be required to bring a mask. Masks should be worn at the sign-in / registration table and at any time hikers are in a close group, such as at trailheads, history talks, or rest breaks.
- Social distancing requested on the trails.
- Series hikers have the opportunity to make up these hikes at any time in the future. If hikers do not feel comfortable taking part in hikes in 2020, this is more than understandable.
Note: This hike is part of a series, which goes on sale January 2, 2020. Hikers who wish to register for individual hikes may add their name to the waitlist by sending an email to [email protected]. Additional spaces for individual hikers on the waitlist may open up if a full series hiker cancels their registration.
It is with a heavy heart that we must deliver the news that the Dirty Dancing Festival is pressing pause on the 2020 event in September and will resume next year. This decision has not been made lightly and has been considered by all angles. Since the announcement from Governor Roy Cooper on June 24, 2020, stating North Carolina will continue in Phase II of regulations and restrictions due to COVID-19, we are choosing to make the commitment of keeping our community, fans and participants safe and healthy during these uncertain times. The Dirty Dancing Festival will resume live on September 24 & 25, 2021!
The festival requires the year-round dedication of our volunteer committee to plan and execute the two-day movie-inspired entertainment hub for thousands of fans to attend. The mission of the Dirty Dancing Festival is to raise awareness and funds towards the two charities we hold dear to our hearts, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and the Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce. This year, we are developing ways for everyone to participate in virtual festival activities throughout 2020. Stay tuned for more information to come!
To the attendees who have already purchased tickets, you will be receiving an email from our team and Eventbrite explaining the options available to you regarding your ticket purchase. To all of you who wish to resume having the time of your life in 2021, tickets will go on sale this fall!
We thank our dedicated fans, annual participants, devoted volunteers and vendors, and loyal supporters for your continuous backing, generosity and passion for the Dirty Dancing Festival to carry on!
COVID-19 Update
At this time the 11th annual Dirty Dancing Festival is still scheduled for September 11-12, 2020 in Lake Lure, NC. The event committee is moving forward with the planning efforts to successfully host a safe and fun event weekend and will post news as it becomes available.
We know that there is a lot of uncertainty right now and hope that everyone is staying safe out there. We are carefully monitoring the situation and keeping up to date with the most recent guidelines set forth as we navigate during the phases of reopening. As new updates are announced and stipulations continue to be put in place, please be aware that the festival will take place in a modified venue setting.
We are dedicated to providing our fans, small businesses and local communities an environment to bounce back, get outside with love ones, and enjoy an experience together in celebration of our all-time-favorite movie.
We look forward to seeing you all soon!
Black Folks Camp Too launched as a marketing initiative aimed at connecting Black individuals with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Founder Earl B. Hunter was inspired by his son, Dillion, during a three month RV road trip in which they met only one other black family.

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.
Black Folks Camp Too launched as a marketing initiative aimed at connecting Black individuals with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Founder Earl B. Hunter was inspired by his son, Dillion, during a three month RV road trip in which they met only one other black family.

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.
Black Folks Camp Too launched as a marketing initiative aimed at connecting Black individuals with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Founder Earl B. Hunter was inspired by his son, Dillion, during a three month RV road trip in which they met only one other black family.

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.
Black Folks Camp Too launched as a marketing initiative aimed at connecting Black individuals with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Founder Earl B. Hunter was inspired by his son, Dillion, during a three month RV road trip in which they met only one other black family.

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.
Black Folks Camp Too launched as a marketing initiative aimed at connecting Black individuals with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Founder Earl B. Hunter was inspired by his son, Dillion, during a three month RV road trip in which they met only one other black family.

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.

Take a moment away from the busyness of life to breathe in breathtaking vistas as the sun sets before you. Enjoy a 2 mile round trip hike to a mountaintop and sink into a lovely all levels yoga practice on the summit while soaking up the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A unique way to practice self care and social distancing ;)
Need a different date? Sunset hikes are available daily for private groups of 1-20. Message me with your desired date and group size or visit the website at https://ashevillewellnesstours.com/tour/yoga-hikes/ to browse options.
Covid Considerations: for a detailed rundown of the precautions we’re taking, visit our website at https://ashevillewellnesstours.com/tour/yoga-hikes/
Black Folks Camp Too launched as a marketing initiative aimed at connecting Black individuals with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Founder Earl B. Hunter was inspired by his son, Dillion, during a three month RV road trip in which they met only one other black family.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), Grandfather Mountain is only selling tickets online.
Only a select number of tickets will be sold per day for certain time-slots to limit the number of guests in the park at one time, in accordance with the state of North Carolina’s phased “reopening” plan and social gathering guidelines.
Please check back closer to your visit for ticket availability. As of now, reservations are only available through June 21.
Each guest entering the park must have a ticket, which includes a time-slot. Prices are as follows:
Adult: $22
Senior (age 60+): $20
Child (ages 4-12): $9
AAA Adult: $20 (must present valid AAA card)
AAA Child: $8 (must present valid AAA card)

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.

Take a moment away from the busyness of life to breathe in breathtaking vistas as the sun sets before you. Enjoy a 2 mile round trip hike to a mountaintop and sink into a lovely all levels yoga practice on the summit while soaking up the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A unique way to practice self care and social distancing ;)
Need a different date? Sunset hikes are available daily for private groups of 1-20. Message me with your desired date and group size or visit the website at https://ashevillewellnesstours.com/tour/yoga-hikes/ to browse options.
Covid Considerations: for a detailed rundown of the precautions we’re taking, visit our website at https://ashevillewellnesstours.com/tour/yoga-hikes/
Black Folks Camp Too launched as a marketing initiative aimed at connecting Black individuals with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Founder Earl B. Hunter was inspired by his son, Dillion, during a three month RV road trip in which they met only one other black family.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), Grandfather Mountain is only selling tickets online.
Only a select number of tickets will be sold per day for certain time-slots to limit the number of guests in the park at one time, in accordance with the state of North Carolina’s phased “reopening” plan and social gathering guidelines.
Please check back closer to your visit for ticket availability. As of now, reservations are only available through June 21.
Each guest entering the park must have a ticket, which includes a time-slot. Prices are as follows:
Adult: $22
Senior (age 60+): $20
Child (ages 4-12): $9
AAA Adult: $20 (must present valid AAA card)
AAA Child: $8 (must present valid AAA card)

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/take-home-oktoberfest-tickets-118930732021?fbclid=IwAR0D_b6miodcF1e8Z1TncKbaD5zfRJK1_BfU8jf1Zjmmx12eLKB4Stje350

Take a moment away from the busyness of life to breathe in breathtaking vistas as the sun sets before you. Enjoy a 2 mile round trip hike to a mountaintop and sink into a lovely all levels yoga practice on the summit while soaking up the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A unique way to practice self care and social distancing ;)
Need a different date? Sunset hikes are available daily for private groups of 1-20. Message me with your desired date and group size or visit the website at https://ashevillewellnesstours.com/tour/yoga-hikes/ to browse options.
Covid Considerations: for a detailed rundown of the precautions we’re taking, visit our website at https://ashevillewellnesstours.com/tour/yoga-hikes/
Black Folks Camp Too launched as a marketing initiative aimed at connecting Black individuals with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Founder Earl B. Hunter was inspired by his son, Dillion, during a three month RV road trip in which they met only one other black family.

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.
Great food, artist displays and fun activities while mingling with their neighbors.”
Perhaps the most family friendly street festival in western North Carolina, the Montford Music & Arts Festival features a special children’s area for face painting, interactive displays, sidewalk chalk art contest and other fun activities.
Located on Montford Ave. between Chestnut and Waneta Streets just down the street from downtown Asheville, the Asheville Visitors Center and Chamber of the Commerce, the all-day event will also feature a music stage with another attractive lineup in 2020. Comprised solely of local musicians, the performing schedule will be announced shortly.
Attendees will also be treated to a wide variety of specialty cuisine, courtesy of food booths and food trucks. In addition, more than 100 booth vendors will be on hand, with various artists, crafts people and nursery plant purveyors selling their merchandise.
Featuring turn-of-the-century “Victorian” homes and several bed-and-breakfast inns, a portion of Montford is proclaimed a National Register Historic District. Many of today’s Montford historic homes were designed by the same architect hired by the Vanderbilt Family to create the Biltmore Estate.
World famous authors Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry are buried in Montford at the nearby Riverside Cemetery, while the community’s rich history also dates back to the once thriving African-American community of Stumptown, which ended in the 1960’s.
The very first Montford festival was presented as strictly an arts event in 2004, held inside of Pyper’s Place, which is now Nine Mile Restaurant, and Sweet Heaven Ice Cream Shop, now a real estate office.
FIESTA Hendersonville gives Henderson County a unique opportunity to experience the best of Latin American countries in their own backyard, Patrons can journey through over 20 represented countries and experience their people, music, art, food and culture. Located on Main Street between Allen – Caswell Streets.

Black Folks Camp Too launched as a marketing initiative aimed at connecting Black individuals with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Founder Earl B. Hunter was inspired by his son, Dillion, during a three month RV road trip in which they met only one other black family.

NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival has been a staple in Western North Carolina since 1982. Bringing together families, friends and the community to celebrate another season of outdoor adventure. In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, we have made the decision to change up GAF for the 2020 season — with a focus on a virtual appreciation event throughout the month of September and no in-person festival the weekend of September 25th – 27th. The recreational releases on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala are still scheduled as normal.
In 2020 the festival format might change — but the spirit is stronger than ever. Let’s celebrate another summer of (socially distanced) adventure with a month full of deals on new and used gear, apparel from the big brands, and last minute savings on fall adventures in the mountains.
It has been a challenging year, but one that has reminded us that outdoor adventure plays a critical role in a healthy lifestyle. As we “space out” what is normally an action-packed weekend in the gorge, we plan to bring offers throughout the month of September that will keep you outfitted for the next adventure, big or small.
Want to be on the inside track? Sign up below to be added to our #GAF2020 list. We’ll be sharing additional updates soon and subscribers will be the first to know when the big deals hit.
