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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.

Saturday, August 31, 2019
Council on Aging Offers Free Medicare Classes August-September
Aug 31 all-day
various see below

The Council on Aging of Buncombe County in conjunction with the N.C. Department of Insurance’s Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) announces its classes “Introduction to Medicare – Understanding the Puzzle” for August – September 2019. The classes will explain how Medicare works, the enrollment process, how to avoid penalties, and ways to save money.

The classes are free and open to the public.

Residents who are new to Medicare, caregivers, and others who help senior citizens with their Medicare insurance should consider attending this informative class. The information presented is unbiased and accurate. No products are sold, recommended, or endorsed.

Medicare Classes:  August – September 2019

  • Aug. 21, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. PM Blue Ridge Health, 2579 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville
  • Aug.  23, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Goodwill, 1616 Patton Ave, Asheville
  • Aug. 28, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 150 Brian Berg Dr, Brevard
  • Sept. 5, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Reuter YMCA, 3 Town Square Blvd, Asheville
  • Sept. 13, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. OLLI/Reuter Center, UNCA, One University Heights, Asheville
  • Sept. 17, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Woodfin YMCA, 40 N Merrimon Ave #101, Asheville
  • Sept. 20, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Goodwill, 1616 Patton Ave, Asheville
  • Sept. 25, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Black Mountain YMCA, 25 Jane Jacobs Rd, Black Mountain
  • Oct. 1, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Ferguson YMCA, 31 Westridge Market Pl, Candler
Justice Forum Pisgah Legal Jose Antonio Vargas Registration Open
Aug 31 all-day

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
JOSE ANTONIO VARGAS

Jose Antonio Vargas is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Emmy-nominated filmmaker, author of Dear America: Notes of An Undocumented Citizen and a leading voice for the human rights of immigrants. He is the Founder and CEO of Define American, the nation’s leading nonprofit media organization that fights injustice and anti-immigrant hate through the power of storytelling.
Mr. Vargas will share details of his childhood journey to the United States from the Philippines and his life in America as an immigration reform activist. Some have called him the most famous undocumented immigrant in America.
Youth Acting For ages 8-12
Aug 31 all-day
ACT

In this class, students will learn a variety of acting techniques with a focus on character development and relationships, deciding what your character wants and how you are going to achieve it, and making choices in scenes to fully develop the scene with specific blocking and movement. Students will work on scenes and monologues from a variety of popular youth plays and musicals, including Charlotte’s Web, Peter Pan, Into the Woods, The Secret Garden, and Beauty and the Beast, taking them from auditions to performance. They will also write their own original, creative scenes to perform in a final showcase during the last class.

Class Schedule:

Classes: September 7​ –​November 9, 2019: Saturdays from 1​1​:00 am-1​2​:00 ​pm
Final Showcase: Saturday, ​November 16, 2019 at 11:​0​0 am (combined with improv)
Cost: $150

Youth Improv For ages 10-15
Aug 31 all-day
ACT

This class will include instruction on improv skills, including character development, connecting in scenes, “Yes and…” acceptance technique, and building the beginning, middle, and end of a scene. We will play a variety of fun and interactive improv games, including Freeze, Murder Mystery, Props, Styles, ABC game, Changing Channels, Survivor, and Slide Show. Some of the games will be similar to the show, Whose Line it Anyway? The last class will be open for parents to watch a mini improv show to demonstrate the games and skills learned during each class. This class is open to all levels of improv from beginning to advanced.

Class Schedule:

Classes: September 7​ –​November 9, 2019: Saturdays from 10:00-11:00 am
Final Showcase: Saturday, ​November 16, 2019 at 11:​0​0 am (combined with acting)
Cost: $150

Vance Elementary School and Ben & Jerry’s Art Showcase
Aug 31 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ben & Jerry' s Scoop Shop

There’s more than Chunky Monkey and New York Super Fudge Chunk in downtown Asheville’s Ben & Jerry’s this summer.

Art created by Vance Elementary School fifth grade students of art educator Robbie Lipe is now on display on the brick walls opposite the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. The exhibit depicts the students’ interpretation of the artist Kehinde Wiley and the contemporary portraits he creates inspired by traditional Baroque paintings. It will be featured through the end of the summer.

“Ben & Jerry’s is excited about showcasing art from the community inside our scoop shop,” said general manager Chris Carter. “Making use of our walls to show what local artists are creating complements our social mission — to be actively involved in the places we live and do business. I hope this is the first of many art exhibits on our walls.”

Carter gave all the credit for the exhibit to Ms. Lipe, who teaches kindergarten through 5th-grade students at Vance Elementary. She was named the North Carolina Arts Educators Association “Art Educator of the Year” in 2017-2018.

Ben & Jerry’s is located at 19 Haywood Street. Current hours are Monday-Thursday 12 pm to 10 pm; Friday 12 pm – 11 pm; Saturday 11:30 am – 11 pm; Sunday 11:30 am – 10 pm.

For more information, call Carter at 310-601-6247.

“Rounding Third” at Flat Rock Playhouse
Aug 31 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Rounding Third, starring FRP favorites Scott Treadway and JP Sarro. This good-humored and sincere story about a Little League coach, his team of youngsters, and his new assistant coach, is sure to hit a home run, says Rounding Third Director, Charlie Flynn-McIver. “They say that life imitates art but what is really happening here is that the art has gotten it right about life. Sports are a great metaphor for many things and when it comes to youth sports, even more so.”

Arms and The Man Readers Theatre ACT
Aug 31 @ 2:30 pm
ACT: 35below

This comedy is often viewed as Shaw’s wittiest play! This is a borderline farce that will stimulate serious thinking about the nature of both romance and war. What is Raina to do when she finds that an enemy soldier has taken refuge in her room? What will her fiancée say? The plot, of course, thickens! Directed by Jim Reid and performed as Readers Theatre as a part of The Autumn Players’ Readers Theatre Showcase Series.

“Rounding Third” at Flat Rock Playhouse
Aug 31 @ 8:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Rounding Third, starring FRP favorites Scott Treadway and JP Sarro. This good-humored and sincere story about a Little League coach, his team of youngsters, and his new assistant coach, is sure to hit a home run, says Rounding Third Director, Charlie Flynn-McIver. “They say that life imitates art but what is really happening here is that the art has gotten it right about life. Sports are a great metaphor for many things and when it comes to youth sports, even more so.”

Sunday, September 1, 2019
Adult Improv Classes Asheville Community Theatre
Sep 1 all-day
ACT

We’re offering three progressive levels of classes, Basic Improv, Beyond Basic, and The Performance Lab. There’s room for everyone in these classes, no matter your experience level!

Justice Forum Pisgah Legal Jose Antonio Vargas Registration Open
Sep 1 all-day

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
JOSE ANTONIO VARGAS

Jose Antonio Vargas is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Emmy-nominated filmmaker, author of Dear America: Notes of An Undocumented Citizen and a leading voice for the human rights of immigrants. He is the Founder and CEO of Define American, the nation’s leading nonprofit media organization that fights injustice and anti-immigrant hate through the power of storytelling.
Mr. Vargas will share details of his childhood journey to the United States from the Philippines and his life in America as an immigration reform activist. Some have called him the most famous undocumented immigrant in America.
“Rounding Third” at Flat Rock Playhouse
Sep 1 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Rounding Third, starring FRP favorites Scott Treadway and JP Sarro. This good-humored and sincere story about a Little League coach, his team of youngsters, and his new assistant coach, is sure to hit a home run, says Rounding Third Director, Charlie Flynn-McIver. “They say that life imitates art but what is really happening here is that the art has gotten it right about life. Sports are a great metaphor for many things and when it comes to youth sports, even more so.”

Arms and The Man Readers Theatre ACT
Sep 1 @ 2:30 pm
Reuter Center on UNCA’s campus

This comedy is often viewed as Shaw’s wittiest play! This is a borderline farce that will stimulate serious thinking about the nature of both romance and war. What is Raina to do when she finds that an enemy soldier has taken refuge in her room? What will her fiancée say? The plot, of course, thickens! Directed by Jim Reid and performed as Readers Theatre as a part of The Autumn Players’ Readers Theatre Showcase Series.

Tuesday, September 3, 2019
Standing Strong Seeks Sponsors
Sep 3 all-day
Diana Wortham Theatre

JOIN US for standing strong!

Please join us on the evening of Thursday October 24, 2019 at the Diana Wortham Theatre. This event supports the quality health care and education programs that Planned Parenthood provides in the Asheville community.                                                                                                    STANDING STRONG details

Sponsor Lunch with Irin: 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Sponsor Reception with Irin: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Main Program: 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Private Champagne and Dessert Reception  8:00 to 9:00 p.m.

The Sponsor Reception ($1,000+) begins at 5:30 p.m. at Diana Wortham Theatre. Guests will meet Irin Carmon and enjoy complimentary wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres before the program.

Doors open for all at 6:30 p.m. with curtain time at 7:00 p.m. in the Diana Wortham Theatre. Irin will deliver the keynote address.

To close out an evening supporting our critical work, sponsors ($500 – $150) are invited to the Private Champagne and Dessert Reception immediately following the program.

Wednesday, September 4, 2019
Standing Strong Seeks Sponsors
Sep 4 all-day
Diana Wortham Theatre

JOIN US for standing strong!

Please join us on the evening of Thursday October 24, 2019 at the Diana Wortham Theatre. This event supports the quality health care and education programs that Planned Parenthood provides in the Asheville community.                                                                                                    STANDING STRONG details

Sponsor Lunch with Irin: 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Sponsor Reception with Irin: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Main Program: 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Private Champagne and Dessert Reception  8:00 to 9:00 p.m.

The Sponsor Reception ($1,000+) begins at 5:30 p.m. at Diana Wortham Theatre. Guests will meet Irin Carmon and enjoy complimentary wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres before the program.

Doors open for all at 6:30 p.m. with curtain time at 7:00 p.m. in the Diana Wortham Theatre. Irin will deliver the keynote address.

To close out an evening supporting our critical work, sponsors ($500 – $150) are invited to the Private Champagne and Dessert Reception immediately following the program.

Strolling Through History: Active Bodies, Active Minds
Sep 4 @ 10:30 am
Pack Library

You can’t beat a walk with a friend over good conversation. So, why not take a walk with lots of friends and a history expert to boot? Buncombe County Libraries is excited to announce its Strolling Through History program focused on getting you moving while taking in some experiential history. “Each one of the strolls is a little different. We’ll talk about the evolution of the architecture, famous (or not quite so famous) residents, important events, and more,” explains Pack Memorial Librarian Katherine Calhoun Cutshall. “On our Haywood Street stroll, we talked about how the street has seen two major rebirths and discussed the careers of two WWI nurses who grew up on the street while it was mostly residential.”

Pack Librarians are always looking for innovative ways to showcase the library’s portfolio of initiatives and resources. “The North Carolina Room is a hidden gem in our library system, so programs like Strolling Through History bring the collection to the streets of downtown while showing off resources and programs in a fun new way,” notes Katherine. And of course, exercising your muscles and social skills are important at any age

So, how can you get involved with the monthly Strolling Through History? There are two versions: one for elder adults and one for babies and their caregivers. If you’re interested in participating, the elder adults strolls are the third Friday of every month, and the babies and caretakers strolls are the third Wednesday of every month (except July). All strolls will meet at Pack Memorial Library at 10:30 a.m., and participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring water to stay hydrated. Registration is required. 

“Rounding Third” at Flat Rock Playhouse
Sep 4 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Rounding Third, starring FRP favorites Scott Treadway and JP Sarro. This good-humored and sincere story about a Little League coach, his team of youngsters, and his new assistant coach, is sure to hit a home run, says Rounding Third Director, Charlie Flynn-McIver. “They say that life imitates art but what is really happening here is that the art has gotten it right about life. Sports are a great metaphor for many things and when it comes to youth sports, even more so.”

Craft Centric Welcomes AshevilleFairyHair.com
Sep 4 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Craft Centric

Come have fun with Finklepott’s Original Fairy Hair and craft libations!
You can wash it,
brush it,
comb it,
curl it,
flat iron, (up to 450°!)
color it,
straighten it,
perm it,
blow it dry, get your haircut, etc.
Do whatever you normally do to your hair -but most of all; ENJOY IT!

Sign up here to reserve your spot and for more information:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B044BA5AB2FA1FA7-craft6

“Rounding Third” at Flat Rock Playhouse
Sep 4 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Rounding Third, starring FRP favorites Scott Treadway and JP Sarro. This good-humored and sincere story about a Little League coach, his team of youngsters, and his new assistant coach, is sure to hit a home run, says Rounding Third Director, Charlie Flynn-McIver. “They say that life imitates art but what is really happening here is that the art has gotten it right about life. Sports are a great metaphor for many things and when it comes to youth sports, even more so.”

Thursday, September 5, 2019
Council on Aging Offers Free Medicare Classes August-September
Sep 5 all-day
various see below

The Council on Aging of Buncombe County in conjunction with the N.C. Department of Insurance’s Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) announces its classes “Introduction to Medicare – Understanding the Puzzle” for August – September 2019. The classes will explain how Medicare works, the enrollment process, how to avoid penalties, and ways to save money.

The classes are free and open to the public.

Residents who are new to Medicare, caregivers, and others who help senior citizens with their Medicare insurance should consider attending this informative class. The information presented is unbiased and accurate. No products are sold, recommended, or endorsed.

Medicare Classes:  August – September 2019

  • Aug. 21, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. PM Blue Ridge Health, 2579 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville
  • Aug.  23, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Goodwill, 1616 Patton Ave, Asheville
  • Aug. 28, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 150 Brian Berg Dr, Brevard
  • Sept. 5, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Reuter YMCA, 3 Town Square Blvd, Asheville
  • Sept. 13, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. OLLI/Reuter Center, UNCA, One University Heights, Asheville
  • Sept. 17, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Woodfin YMCA, 40 N Merrimon Ave #101, Asheville
  • Sept. 20, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Goodwill, 1616 Patton Ave, Asheville
  • Sept. 25, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Black Mountain YMCA, 25 Jane Jacobs Rd, Black Mountain
  • Oct. 1, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Ferguson YMCA, 31 Westridge Market Pl, Candler
Batter Up! Rounding Third at Flat Rock Playhouse!
Sep 5 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Rounding Third, starring FRP favorites Scott Treadway and JP Sarro. This good-humored and sincere story about a Little League coach, his team of youngsters, and his new assistant coach, is sure to hit a home run, says Rounding Third Director, Charlie Flynn-McIver. “They say that life imitates art but what is really happening here is that the art has gotten it right about life. Sports are a great metaphor for many things and when it comes to youth sports, even more so.”

City and County Efforts to Fight Climate Change
Sep 5 @ 7:00 pm
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville

Buncombe County and the City of Asheville recognize the urgency of fighting climate change. Over the past 18 months, both the City of Asheville and Buncombe County have passed resolutions committing the city and county to power their government operations with 100% renewable energy by 2030 and for the entire county to be powered by 100% renewable energy by 2042. Brownie Newman, Chair of the Buncombe County Commission, and Julie Mayfield of the Asheville City Council will talk about the city and county’s plans and initiatives to begin the process of meeting these goals. This event is free and open to the public.

Batter Up! Rounding Third at Flat Rock Playhouse!
Sep 5 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Rounding Third, starring FRP favorites Scott Treadway and JP Sarro. This good-humored and sincere story about a Little League coach, his team of youngsters, and his new assistant coach, is sure to hit a home run, says Rounding Third Director, Charlie Flynn-McIver. “They say that life imitates art but what is really happening here is that the art has gotten it right about life. Sports are a great metaphor for many things and when it comes to youth sports, even more so.”

Friday, September 6, 2019
Standing Strong Seeks Sponsors
Sep 6 all-day
Diana Wortham Theatre

JOIN US for standing strong!

Please join us on the evening of Thursday October 24, 2019 at the Diana Wortham Theatre. This event supports the quality health care and education programs that Planned Parenthood provides in the Asheville community.                                                                                                    STANDING STRONG details

Sponsor Lunch with Irin: 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Sponsor Reception with Irin: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Main Program: 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Private Champagne and Dessert Reception  8:00 to 9:00 p.m.

The Sponsor Reception ($1,000+) begins at 5:30 p.m. at Diana Wortham Theatre. Guests will meet Irin Carmon and enjoy complimentary wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres before the program.

Doors open for all at 6:30 p.m. with curtain time at 7:00 p.m. in the Diana Wortham Theatre. Irin will deliver the keynote address.

To close out an evening supporting our critical work, sponsors ($500 – $150) are invited to the Private Champagne and Dessert Reception immediately following the program.

Strolling Through History: Active Bodies, Active Minds
Sep 6 @ 10:30 am
Pack Library

You can’t beat a walk with a friend over good conversation. So, why not take a walk with lots of friends and a history expert to boot? Buncombe County Libraries is excited to announce its Strolling Through History program focused on getting you moving while taking in some experiential history. “Each one of the strolls is a little different. We’ll talk about the evolution of the architecture, famous (or not quite so famous) residents, important events, and more,” explains Pack Memorial Librarian Katherine Calhoun Cutshall. “On our Haywood Street stroll, we talked about how the street has seen two major rebirths and discussed the careers of two WWI nurses who grew up on the street while it was mostly residential.”

Pack Librarians are always looking for innovative ways to showcase the library’s portfolio of initiatives and resources. “The North Carolina Room is a hidden gem in our library system, so programs like Strolling Through History bring the collection to the streets of downtown while showing off resources and programs in a fun new way,” notes Katherine. And of course, exercising your muscles and social skills are important at any age

So, how can you get involved with the monthly Strolling Through History? There are two versions: one for elder adults and one for babies and their caregivers. If you’re interested in participating, the elder adults strolls are the third Friday of every month, and the babies and caretakers strolls are the third Wednesday of every month (except July). All strolls will meet at Pack Memorial Library at 10:30 a.m., and participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring water to stay hydrated. Registration is required. 

Truth Be Told
Sep 6 @ 7:30 pm
35below ACT

These two one act plays, twinned in theme, display the struggles of sexual abuse, and the aftermath; which is healing. The stories of two different persons are speaking the truth – or a truth – their truths – about going through this harsh and mind blowing journey. This powerful show has a bold message with a light at the end of the tunnel. Truth Be Told is written and directed by Monica McDaniel.

Truth Be Told will open the 2019-20 35below season and is also the inaugural play in Asheville Community Theatre’s Artistic Horizons program, a program that gives local artists the opportunity to pursue new creative paths in the theatre.

Batter Up! Rounding Third at Flat Rock Playhouse!
Sep 6 @ 8:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Rounding Third, starring FRP favorites Scott Treadway and JP Sarro. This good-humored and sincere story about a Little League coach, his team of youngsters, and his new assistant coach, is sure to hit a home run, says Rounding Third Director, Charlie Flynn-McIver. “They say that life imitates art but what is really happening here is that the art has gotten it right about life. Sports are a great metaphor for many things and when it comes to youth sports, even more so.”

Saturday, September 7, 2019
Council on Aging Offers Free Medicare Classes August-September
Sep 7 all-day
various see below

The Council on Aging of Buncombe County in conjunction with the N.C. Department of Insurance’s Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) announces its classes “Introduction to Medicare – Understanding the Puzzle” for August – September 2019. The classes will explain how Medicare works, the enrollment process, how to avoid penalties, and ways to save money.

The classes are free and open to the public.

Residents who are new to Medicare, caregivers, and others who help senior citizens with their Medicare insurance should consider attending this informative class. The information presented is unbiased and accurate. No products are sold, recommended, or endorsed.

Medicare Classes:  August – September 2019

  • Aug. 21, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. PM Blue Ridge Health, 2579 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville
  • Aug.  23, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Goodwill, 1616 Patton Ave, Asheville
  • Aug. 28, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 150 Brian Berg Dr, Brevard
  • Sept. 5, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Reuter YMCA, 3 Town Square Blvd, Asheville
  • Sept. 13, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. OLLI/Reuter Center, UNCA, One University Heights, Asheville
  • Sept. 17, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Woodfin YMCA, 40 N Merrimon Ave #101, Asheville
  • Sept. 20, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Goodwill, 1616 Patton Ave, Asheville
  • Sept. 25, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Black Mountain YMCA, 25 Jane Jacobs Rd, Black Mountain
  • Oct. 1, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Ferguson YMCA, 31 Westridge Market Pl, Candler
National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA) Walk
Sep 7 all-day
Carrier Park

 

Nutritious Thoughts team of dietitians is hosting the seventh annual National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA) Walk in conjunction with Willow Place. NEDA walks educate affected individuals and their families, while raising vital funds in the fight against eating disorders.  “Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental illnesses, which is why the NEDA walks are so crucial because any funds or knowledge gained is helping save a life,” Katie Rhodes, RD, LDN.

PEAK (Parents of Estranged Adult Kids)
Sep 7 @ 8:30 am – 9:45 am
First Congregational Church Library

You adult child won’t speak to you? Find support through our weekly meetings, every Saturday, Sept. 7 – Nov. 9, 2019, 8:30 am to 9:45 am, at First Congregational Church Library, 1735 Fifth Avenue West.  It’s not about who’s right or wrong.  It’s about getting on with life.

Call For Sculptors – Sculpture Celebration September 7th
Sep 7 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
T.H. Broyhill Walking Park

SEPT - SCULPTURE CELEBRATION

Caldwell Arts Council announces the 34th annual Sculpture Celebration in Lenoir, NC on Saturday September 7, 2019 at the T.H. Broyhill Walking Park in Lenoir, North Carolina.

Sculptors are invited to bring up to 3 sculptures for this one-day competition for $11,000 in cash awards, along with potential sales and commissions.

This annual event attracts sculptors and buyers from the eastern United States to Lenoir, North Carolina. Last year, over 4,000 people attended the family-friendly celebration.

Early registration discounts are available.