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, February 27, 2021
28th Annual Organic Growers School Spring Conference Online REGISTRATION OPEN
Feb 27 all-day
Online w/ Organic Growers School

March 13-21, 2021 – Online
Kick-off Live Event
March 13, 2021
  • Three Live Keynote Talks
  • Teaser Videos for our 11 Themed Tracks
  • Lunchtime Entertainment
  • A Live Q&A With our Keynote speakers
  • A video social with other attendees
  • Access to our Exhibit Hall
Track Workshops
March 14-19, 2021
View 3 pre-recorded hour long workshops in each of 11 Themed Tracks:
  • Cherokee Foods
  • Cooking
  • Farming
  • Food Systems
  • Gardening
  • Herbs
  • Livestock
  • Mushrooms
  • Permaculture
  • Soils
  • Sustainable Living

Live Panel Discussion Sessions

March 20-21, 2021

Join a live Panel Discussion with each speaker from the Track workshops. Interact directly with panelists during the live Q & A portion!
Annual Seedling Sale: Order Now-Feb. 28
Feb 27 all-day
online w/ Buncombe County Government

News
                            article image

There is new inventory for the seedling sale. Apples, pears, and additional stock in blackberries and rhubarb have been added to the seedling sale. If you have already placed an order, no worries! Submit another order, and we will make sure your new order gets packaged with your previous order.

The Buncombe County Soil & Water annual seedling sale runs now through Sunday, Feb. 28. To order, use the link here. Please note, some seedlings might sell out before Feb. 28. Seedling pickup will be March 4-5, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

If you have additional questions, call (828) 250-4785.

Order here.

Some of this year’s seedlings for sale:

  • Blackberries
  • Red Mulberry
  • Redbud
  • Persimmon
  • Kousa Dogwood
  • White Oak
  • Much more
COVID-19 Testing in Buncombe County
Feb 27 all-day
Various locations in Buncombe County

COVID-19 Testing in Buncombe County

Para leer este artículo en español, haga clic aquí.

COVID-19 Testing General Information

Think you have been exposed to COVID?

Testing is widely available at urgent cares, federally qualified health centers, and through some primary care providers for those who need it however, it remains important to focus on the prevention of COVID first and foremost to keep the virus from spreading further into the community and to loved ones.

Find testing near you:

  • If you DO NOT HAVE a healthcare provider who offers testing for COVID-19 and you need to get tested, there are several ways to find testing near you.
  • Visit the Find My Testing Place website to find a clinic or pop up testing site near you.
  • People in Buncombe County can access testing by completing the Buncombe County Self-Checker online. If you need testing, you can set up an appointment at one of the county’s open-air, drive-through sites. People can also call the Ready Team at (828) 419-0095 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday to be pre-screened for testing at these sites. A Ready Team member will call you within 2 business days to schedule your appointment.
  • You can call the Buncombe County nurse line at (828) 250-5300 to find out where you can get tested (Press OPTION #1 to speak with a nurse) from 8 am to 5:30 pm.
  • Community Testing Site Information

    Please read: You must schedule an appointment for community test sites.

    Buncombe County offers drive-thru COVID-19 community testing at specified locations throughout the county. Community testing provides an easy and efficient way for those who live, work, or attend school in Buncombe County to get tested for COVID-19.

    Testing at the fixed sites is available by appointment only. Here are the steps to sign up for community testing at one of the Buncombe County community testing sites:

    Step 1: Complete the Buncombe County COVID-19 Self-Checker.  The self-checker will tell you whether or not you need to be tested. You can access the self-checker here. You can also call the Ready Team at (828) 419-0095 and they will help you to complete the self-checker.

    Step 2: If your self-checker results indicate that you need to be tested and you do not have a primary care provider who is providing COVID-19 testing or you cannot get tested at an urgent care, you will need to register for the testing site. You can register online or by calling the Ready Team. You must complete the registration form and wait for a call back (next step).

    Step 3: Once you have completed the registration, the Ready Team will call you within 2 business days to schedule your appointment. They will call from this number: (828) 419-0095. Do not show up at the testing site without an appointment. 

    Step 4: Show up at the testing site at your scheduled date and time.

    Step 5: Wait for your testing results or access them online. Your test result will be available within 48 hours. While you are waiting for your test result, you should act as if you have COVID and reduce or eliminate your contact with others until your test results return.

    • While waiting for your test result, please follow the instructions in the “Steps for People After COVID-19 Testing” handout that you received at the testing site and attached below. This handout also tells you what to do once you get your test result.
    • A Buncombe County employee will call you with your test result.
          OR
    • You can register with our lab partner, Genova Diagnostics, to check on your results online. Please do not call Genova for your results.

    To get your results from the lab partner, Genova Diagnostics*:

    • Register for the Genova Diagnostics myGDX Patient Resource Center at https://www.gdx.net/prc.
    • To access your result, you will be asked to enter the last 5 digits of your social security number to verify your identity. If you do not have a social security number, enter any 5 numbers and you will be able to get your result by providing different identifying information.
      * You may see a note on Genova’s website about a 10 day delay in releasing results to patients, but this does not apply to COVID testing through our sites.

    Testing site locations in Buncombe County are at the Buncombe County Sports Park on Thursdays and on Sundays at the AB Tech Allied Health Building. Please pre-register for testing at these locations by completing the Self-Checker or by calling the Ready Team at (828) 419-0095. Please check the calendar below for testing site times and dates. 

    Important: Please check Buncombe County’s Facebook page for site cancellations due to weather. 

Find Your Farm Share! CSA guide available now
Feb 27 all-day
Online w/ ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project)

Joining a CSA (or Community Supported Agriculture) program connects you directly with local farms in your community. ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) offers several events and resources to learn more about CSAs, in which members buy a “share” of a farm’s harvest upfront and receive a weekly box of fresh produce or other farm goods. ASAP will host a virtual CSA Fair on March 10 from 4 to 6 p.m. on Zoom. In addition, Full Share, a free guide listing 60 CSA farms in the Appalachian Grown region, is available now at farmers markets and community centers throughout the region as well as digitally at asapconnections.org/find-local-food/csa.

 

The virtual CSA Fair will feature farms providing CSAs in Buncombe County and the surrounding region. In addition to traditional produce farms, the fair will include farms with meat and flower CSA programs. The virtual fair will have a similar format as live fairs in the past—a relaxed setting where attendees can talk to farmers about their CSA programs, products, growing practices, and more. Attendees can sign up for CSAs during the fair or follow up with farmers later. The fair is free to attend, but participants do need to register for the event to get a Zoom link.

 

For farmers, the CSA Fair is a chance to build relationships, even if attendees decide not to purchase a share. “[The customers we meet at the CSA Fair] tend to really want to know the farmer and the food, meaning they are a bit more adventurous when it comes to trying new things,” says K.P. Whaley of Tiny Bridge Farm. “They are interested in knowing how and what we are growing, and really want us to be successful as a farm operation. We may get some customers from the fair and that’s great. But we also start building relationships with future customers.”

 

Participating farms at press time include Bearwallow Valley Farms, Blazing Star Flowers, Colfax Creek Farm, Creekside Farm, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, Olivette Farm, and Tiny Bridge Farm, with more farms to be added before the fair. Check asapconnections.org/events/csa-fair for updates and to register.

 

ABOUT ASAP (APPALACHIAN SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PROJECT)

ASAP’s mission is to help local farms thrive, link farmers to markets and supporters, and build healthy communities through connections to local food. To learn more, visit asapconnections.org.

 

North Carolina COVID-19 Restricts to Ease Beginning February 26th
Feb 27 all-day
Online w/ Henderson County Chamber
Governor Roy Cooper announced Wednesday, February 24 that with the improvement of COVID numbers in North Carolin and the continued increase in vaccine distribution, the state will begin easing COVID-19 restrictions. Executive Order 195 will take effect Friday, February 26th at 5 pm and will remain in effect until March 26th at 5 pm.
Executive Order 195 lifts the Modified Stay at Home Order requiring people to stay at home and businesses to close to the public between 10 pm and 5 am. The number of people who may gather indoors has increased from 10 to 25. The 50-person outdoor gathering limit remains unchanged. The curfew on the sale of alcohol for onsite consumption will be moved from 9 pm to 11 pm.
Some businesses, including bars and amusement parks, will now be open for patrons indoors with new occupancy restrictions. Venues and arenas will have increased occupancy both indoors and outdoors.
Executive Order No. 195 has two general categories of occupancy restrictions: 30% capacity and 50% capacity. Because indoor spaces have a higher risk of spread for COVID-19, indoor facilities in the 30%-occupancy category may not exceed two hundred fifty (250) people per indoor room or indoor space.
 30% Capacity Limit (may not exceed 250-persons in indoor spaces)
  • Bars
  • Meeting, Reception, and Conference Spaces
  • Lounges (including tobacco) and Night Clubs
  • Indoor areas of Amusement Parks
  • Movie Theatres
  • Entertainment facilities (e.g., bingo parlors, gaming establishments)
  • Sports Arenas and Fields*
  • Venues*
*Indoor event venues with more than 5,000 seats may be excepted from the 250 person limit if they follow additional safety measures up to 15% capacity.
50% Capacity Limit
  • Restaurants
  • Breweries, Wineries, Distilleries
  • Fitness and Physical Activity Facilities (e.g., gyms, bowling alleys, rock climbing facilities)
  • Pools
  • Museums and Aquariums
  • Retailers
  • Outdoor areas of Amusement Parks
  • Salons, Personal Care, Tattoo Parlors
Safety protocols such as masks, social distancing, and frequent handwashing will continue to be important as people adjust to the new order, health officials said.
North Carolina’s Modified Stay at Home Order Extended to Feb. 28th
Feb 27 all-day
North Carolina
Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen today announced that North Carolina’s Modified Stay At Home Order, requiring people to be at home from 10 pm – 5 am, will be extended. Face covering requirements and restrictions on individuals gathering in both indoor and outdoor settings are still in place. Executive Order No. 189 will be in effect through at least Sunday, February 28, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.
The Governor also announced the extensions of executive orders for “to-go” or delivery sales of mixed beverages and evictions moratorium – Executive Order No. 190  and Executive Order No. 191.
Organic Growers School Apprentice Link database for Farming
Feb 27 all-day
Online w/ Organic Growers School

The Apprentice Link database connects people who are serious about learning the sustainable farming trade with farmers who are willing to teach them in an apprenticeship setting. Our programs’ emphasis is specifically in the Southern Appalachians, with a focus on farms that participate in local Collaborative Regional Alliance for Farmer Training (CRAFT) programs.

To be included in this listing, Organic Growers School has vetted each farm to determine of the following criteria has been met:

  • Farms are actively engaged in the local community.
  • Farms are using organic and/or sustainable production methods. Organic Certification and other certifications are not required, but we do ask that farms and farmers are “in-the-know” and conscientiously practicing organic standards.
  • Farms are dedicated to training new farmers by providing education as a pinnacle element of their apprenticeship program.
Shiloh Peace Garden Food Pantry + PPE Supplies for those In Need
Feb 27 all-day
Shiloh Peace Garden

Community Collaboration Helps Neighbors in Time of Need

Food insecurity has risen significantly across the country due to pandemic-related job losses and struggles, and in Buncombe County local food pantries are popping up to help feed neighborhood families.

A collaborative, community-led project between Bountiful Cities, St. James AME Church, East End Valley Street Neighborhood Association, and Shiloh Community Association has neighbors helping neighbors to get non-perishable food and personal protective equipment (PPE) right where it’s needed most.

To serve people in need in the community, there are two new food pantries located at St. James AME Church and the Shiloh Peace Garden. Both pantries were handmade by Asheville local, Max Mandler of Mandler Construction. The pantry at St. James AME is dedicated to the memory of Bernadette Thompson, a longtime community activist and faithful member of the church for many years, and features artwork by local artist Jenny Pickens.

Community members will find both pantries stocked with non-perishable, nutritious food and free masks, hand sanitizers, cleaning supplies, and other items that will assist individuals in staying safe and preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Upkeep and stocking the pantry will be a joint effort among the sponsoring organizations and the community-at-large. Thanks to CARES funding, Buncombe County government was able to help with initial supply efforts. The pantries will be open seven days a week and are set up to be self-serve. Everyone is welcome to utilize the pantries for both food and PPE needs.

St. James AME Church Food Pantry + PPE Supplies for those In Need
Feb 27 all-day
St. James AME Church

Community Collaboration Helps Neighbors in Time of Need

Food insecurity has risen significantly across the country due to pandemic-related job losses and struggles, and in Buncombe County local food pantries are popping up to help feed neighborhood families.

A collaborative, community-led project between Bountiful Cities, St. James AME Church, East End Valley Street Neighborhood Association, and Shiloh Community Association has neighbors helping neighbors to get non-perishable food and personal protective equipment (PPE) right where it’s needed most.

To serve people in need in the community, there are two new food pantries located at St. James AME Church and the Shiloh Peace Garden. Both pantries were handmade by Asheville local, Max Mandler of Mandler Construction. The pantry at St. James AME is dedicated to the memory of Bernadette Thompson, a longtime community activist and faithful member of the church for many years, and features artwork by local artist Jenny Pickens.

Community members will find both pantries stocked with non-perishable, nutritious food and free masks, hand sanitizers, cleaning supplies, and other items that will assist individuals in staying safe and preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Upkeep and stocking the pantry will be a joint effort among the sponsoring organizations and the community-at-large. Thanks to CARES funding, Buncombe County government was able to help with initial supply efforts. The pantries will be open seven days a week and are set up to be self-serve. Everyone is welcome to utilize the pantries for both food and PPE needs.

We’re Hiring! 1-year Internship Hickory Nut Gap Farm
Feb 27 all-day
Online w/ Hickory Nut Gap Farm
We’re Hiring!

1-year Internship

START DATE: April 1, 2021
Are you someone who wants to work in agriculture? Interested in learning more about regenerative farming practices in a safe and inclusive environment?

Jump start your agriculture career with our 1-year immersive internship. We will put you in the driver’s seat of our operation so that you can learn while doing and expand your understanding of all aspects of the farming industry. If you’re hardworking, honest, committed, and passionate about what you do, then we want you!

Farm interns play a vital role in the day-to-day operation of farming practices on our 300+ acre farm in Fairview, NC.  During the 1-year time commitment, interns will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of livestock farming, berry and apple cultivation, and a variety of farm maintenance skills including carpentry and plumbing.

Hickory Nut Gap Farm has been a family business since 1916 and is currently operated by 4th generation farmer, Jamie Ager.  He and his family opened the farm to the public for tours, events, and activities while still maintaining year round meat production in 100% grassfed beef and pasture-raised pork and chicken.  Since no other regional farm operates as both a production facility and agritourism model, this is a unique opportunity for interns to see how business and farming intertwine. Hickory Nut Gap is also one of the leading pioneers in sustainable farming, rotational grazing, and regenerative agriculture practices in the Southeast Region.

MAHEC Vaccine Waiting: List Healthcare Workers, Childcare workers and people 65+
Feb 27 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
UNCA Reuter Center
Community Event
COVID Vaccines
for Healthcare Workers,
Childcare workers
and people 65+
Feb 26th, Feb 27th and Feb 28th
8AM – 5PM
UNCA Reuter Center
1 University Heights
Asheville, NC 28804

Individuals 65 years old and older, health care workers and child care workers can now join the COVID-19 vaccination wait list provided by MAHEC. Staff will reach out to schedule individuals registered on the wait list.

Register for the waitlist HERE.

Free transportation to COVID-19 Immunization Clinics throughout Henderson County
Feb 27 @ 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Henderson County

Fre

You have a spot – Need a lift?

WCCA cares about our community’s health! Apple Country Transportation is offering free rides to Henderson County vaccination sites for Covid-19 immunizations. A pre-scheduled vaccination appointment is required. Call Apple Country Transportation at (828) 698-8571 for more info and schedule a ride today!

Seniors (65+) in Henderson County can schedule an immunization appointment in one of 4 ways:
1) Pardee UNC Health: Call (828) 694-8222 or visit: www.pardeehospital.org/covid-19
2) Advent Health: Visit: www.AdventHealthNC.com
3) Henderson County Health Dept: Call (828) 585-4700

Once a vaccine appointment is scheduled, individuals may contact Apple Country Transportation
at (828) 698-8571 to schedule to immunization clinic sites in Henderson County including East
Henderson High School, Blue Ridge Community College, Apple Valley Middle, North Henderson
High School and other community sites as they become available.

Urgent Need for Blood Donations: Asheville Center
Feb 27 @ 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
The Blood Connection

TBC Rewards

PLEASE SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY: Asheville Center – Donate Blood – The Blood Connection

 

Platelet Information

Mon-Tues: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wed-Fri: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sat-Sun: 7:00 am – 3:00 pm

To make an appointment call: 984.222.1101

General Information

Mon-Tues: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Wed-Fri: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sat-Sun: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Phone: 828-585-8060

Urgent Need for Blood Donations: Hendersonville Center
Feb 27 @ 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
The Blood Connection

TBC Rewards

PLEASE SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY: Hendersonville Center – Donate Blood – The Blood Connection

 

General Information

Mon-Tues: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Wed-Fri: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sat-Sun: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Phone: 828-233-5301

Platelet Information

Mon-Tues: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wed-Fri: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sat-Sun: 7:00 am – 3:00 pm

Make an appointment: 854-429-1700

Drop-ins also welcome

Homestead Dreams Workshop
Feb 27 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Online w/ Organic Growers School

One-Day Workshop on Land-Based Living

Homestead Dreams is an entry-level workshop designed to help you incorporate small-scale sustainability and self-sufficiency into your life. Whether you own or rent a home, or live in a rural or urban setting, you can move towards self-reliance now.

Homestead Dreams: Design & Plan for Living on Your Land
Feb 27 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
ONLINE

Homestead Dreams is an entry level, exploratory workshop designed to help you incorporate small-scale, self-sufficiency and sustainability into all aspects of your life.

This workshop will be held ONLINE. Register on our website: https://organicgrowersschool.org/gardeners/homestead-dreams/

Regardless of whether you own or rent a home, or live in a rural or urban setting, you can move towards more self-reliance NOW!

Excellent for those in the exploratory stages of getting started with a land-based life. We cover common sense, relevant information to help maximize your independence, increase your connection to community, place, and self, and plan out your dreams for the next 1 to 5 years.

Appropriate for those who are incorporating agriculture, renewable energy, green building, land planning, hand-made products, and land-based living of all kinds. Includes a panel of local homesteaders and a regional expert on soil, climate, rainfall, typography, vegetation, wind, and how that affects and determines life, farming, and building in our region.

Taught by Lee Warren & Brandon Greenstein.

Lee Warren is the co-founder, designer, and builder, of an off-grid, sustainably-built CoHousing Neighborhood at Earthaven Ecovillage; founder and manager of Imani Farm, 5-acre pasture-based cooperative farm; and managing partner of SOIL, School of Integrated Living, which teaches organic food production, regenerative systems, and community living. Lee is also an herbalist, writer, teacher, and food activist, with an avid interest in rural wisdom, sustainable economics, and empowered self-reliance.

Brandon is the Home-Grower Program Director for OGS, developing new initiatives to provide services to home-growers. His background is in Renewable Systems, Earth Works, Energy, Water, Homesteading, Permaculture. He offers consulting, design, and technical services for the creation of low impact and energy conserving systems through his company, Integrated Ecological Solutions.

Online Seminar: Gardening in EarthBoxes®
Feb 27 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
online
Vegetable gardening with EarthBoxes
Vegetable gardening with EarthBoxes

 Virtual attendance via Zoom video and audio internet connection

Presenter: Debbie Green, Extension Master GardenerSM Volunteer

Craving homegrown veggies, herbs, or flowers, but not much space, poor growing conditions, contaminated soils, or past failures with container gardening? Learn how to succeed with EarthBoxes®. Although Extension Master Gardener volunteers don’t endorse commercial products, these boxes are the result of research to develop a growing system that manages water and nutrients for optimal plant growth.

We will cover planning, planting, watering and other maintenance, harvesting, overwintering, and long-term strategies for using these types of growing systems.

Registration: The talk is free but registration is required. Please click on the link below to register. If you encounter problems registering or if you have questions, call 828-255-5522.

Sand Hill Community Garden Workdays
Feb 27 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
 Buncombe County Sports Park

Volunteers at Sand Hill Community Garden

Looking to get involved, stay active, and meet some new friends? Sand Hill Community Garden workdays take place on Wednesdays (6-8 p.m.) and Saturdays (10 a.m.-noon) from Feb. 27-Oct. 30, 2021, at Buncombe County Sports Park. The garden is located on 16 Apac Dr. in West Asheville/Enka-Candler.

Join friends and neighbors as they come together on common ground to raise fresh, organic vegetables and fruits for the Enka community.

Expect to wear a mask and maintain social distance throughout. Tools and hand sanitizer are available, but any gloves, loppers, pruners, or gardening tools you can bring will decrease the amount of contact between volunteers. Please wear work clothes to get dirty and closed-toe shoes. Sunscreen, water, and a hat are also handy items to have on hand.

Sand Hill Community Garden has been growing fresh produce since 2011 and raised over 1,200 lbs. of organic produce last year.

NOTE: Community workdays are weather dependent. Please join the community garden email list (send your info to [email protected]) to stay up on workday tasks and other garden news.

To receive the I Heart Parks monthly newsletter, sign up online. Follow Buncombe County Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

Virtual Critter Check Up WNC Nature Center
Feb 27 @ 2:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Online w/ WNC Nature Center

Due to limitations on indoor gatherings, the Nature Center’s annual Critter Check Up will be virtual in 2021!
Learn more and buy your ticket at https://wildwnc.org/virtual-critter-check-up/
During this virtual event, you’ll get to step behind the scenes and see a real vet exam on one of our red pandas! This is a never-before-offered opportunity that will be fun for all ages! Learn what it takes to be a veterinarian and practice on your own plush animal at home!
After registering, you’ll receive an email invitation from us with a link to attend the virtual event. Materials will be mailed to you before the event. Tune in that afternoon, or access the private link on demand in the next month to watch the event on your own time.
Learn more and buy your ticket at https://wildwnc.org/virtual-critter-check-up/
Sunday, February 28, 2021
28th Annual Organic Growers School Spring Conference Online REGISTRATION OPEN
Feb 28 all-day
Online w/ Organic Growers School

March 13-21, 2021 – Online
Kick-off Live Event
March 13, 2021
  • Three Live Keynote Talks
  • Teaser Videos for our 11 Themed Tracks
  • Lunchtime Entertainment
  • A Live Q&A With our Keynote speakers
  • A video social with other attendees
  • Access to our Exhibit Hall
Track Workshops
March 14-19, 2021
View 3 pre-recorded hour long workshops in each of 11 Themed Tracks:
  • Cherokee Foods
  • Cooking
  • Farming
  • Food Systems
  • Gardening
  • Herbs
  • Livestock
  • Mushrooms
  • Permaculture
  • Soils
  • Sustainable Living

Live Panel Discussion Sessions

March 20-21, 2021

Join a live Panel Discussion with each speaker from the Track workshops. Interact directly with panelists during the live Q & A portion!
Annual Seedling Sale: Order Now-Feb. 28
Feb 28 all-day
online w/ Buncombe County Government

News
                            article image

There is new inventory for the seedling sale. Apples, pears, and additional stock in blackberries and rhubarb have been added to the seedling sale. If you have already placed an order, no worries! Submit another order, and we will make sure your new order gets packaged with your previous order.

The Buncombe County Soil & Water annual seedling sale runs now through Sunday, Feb. 28. To order, use the link here. Please note, some seedlings might sell out before Feb. 28. Seedling pickup will be March 4-5, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

If you have additional questions, call (828) 250-4785.

Order here.

Some of this year’s seedlings for sale:

  • Blackberries
  • Red Mulberry
  • Redbud
  • Persimmon
  • Kousa Dogwood
  • White Oak
  • Much more
COVID-19 Testing in Buncombe County
Feb 28 all-day
Various locations in Buncombe County

COVID-19 Testing in Buncombe County

Para leer este artículo en español, haga clic aquí.

COVID-19 Testing General Information

Think you have been exposed to COVID?

Testing is widely available at urgent cares, federally qualified health centers, and through some primary care providers for those who need it however, it remains important to focus on the prevention of COVID first and foremost to keep the virus from spreading further into the community and to loved ones.

Find testing near you:

  • If you DO NOT HAVE a healthcare provider who offers testing for COVID-19 and you need to get tested, there are several ways to find testing near you.
  • Visit the Find My Testing Place website to find a clinic or pop up testing site near you.
  • People in Buncombe County can access testing by completing the Buncombe County Self-Checker online. If you need testing, you can set up an appointment at one of the county’s open-air, drive-through sites. People can also call the Ready Team at (828) 419-0095 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday to be pre-screened for testing at these sites. A Ready Team member will call you within 2 business days to schedule your appointment.
  • You can call the Buncombe County nurse line at (828) 250-5300 to find out where you can get tested (Press OPTION #1 to speak with a nurse) from 8 am to 5:30 pm.
  • Community Testing Site Information

    Please read: You must schedule an appointment for community test sites.

    Buncombe County offers drive-thru COVID-19 community testing at specified locations throughout the county. Community testing provides an easy and efficient way for those who live, work, or attend school in Buncombe County to get tested for COVID-19.

    Testing at the fixed sites is available by appointment only. Here are the steps to sign up for community testing at one of the Buncombe County community testing sites:

    Step 1: Complete the Buncombe County COVID-19 Self-Checker.  The self-checker will tell you whether or not you need to be tested. You can access the self-checker here. You can also call the Ready Team at (828) 419-0095 and they will help you to complete the self-checker.

    Step 2: If your self-checker results indicate that you need to be tested and you do not have a primary care provider who is providing COVID-19 testing or you cannot get tested at an urgent care, you will need to register for the testing site. You can register online or by calling the Ready Team. You must complete the registration form and wait for a call back (next step).

    Step 3: Once you have completed the registration, the Ready Team will call you within 2 business days to schedule your appointment. They will call from this number: (828) 419-0095. Do not show up at the testing site without an appointment. 

    Step 4: Show up at the testing site at your scheduled date and time.

    Step 5: Wait for your testing results or access them online. Your test result will be available within 48 hours. While you are waiting for your test result, you should act as if you have COVID and reduce or eliminate your contact with others until your test results return.

    • While waiting for your test result, please follow the instructions in the “Steps for People After COVID-19 Testing” handout that you received at the testing site and attached below. This handout also tells you what to do once you get your test result.
    • A Buncombe County employee will call you with your test result.
          OR
    • You can register with our lab partner, Genova Diagnostics, to check on your results online. Please do not call Genova for your results.

    To get your results from the lab partner, Genova Diagnostics*:

    • Register for the Genova Diagnostics myGDX Patient Resource Center at https://www.gdx.net/prc.
    • To access your result, you will be asked to enter the last 5 digits of your social security number to verify your identity. If you do not have a social security number, enter any 5 numbers and you will be able to get your result by providing different identifying information.
      * You may see a note on Genova’s website about a 10 day delay in releasing results to patients, but this does not apply to COVID testing through our sites.

    Testing site locations in Buncombe County are at the Buncombe County Sports Park on Thursdays and on Sundays at the AB Tech Allied Health Building. Please pre-register for testing at these locations by completing the Self-Checker or by calling the Ready Team at (828) 419-0095. Please check the calendar below for testing site times and dates. 

    Important: Please check Buncombe County’s Facebook page for site cancellations due to weather. 

Find Your Farm Share! CSA guide available now
Feb 28 all-day
Online w/ ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project)

Joining a CSA (or Community Supported Agriculture) program connects you directly with local farms in your community. ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) offers several events and resources to learn more about CSAs, in which members buy a “share” of a farm’s harvest upfront and receive a weekly box of fresh produce or other farm goods. ASAP will host a virtual CSA Fair on March 10 from 4 to 6 p.m. on Zoom. In addition, Full Share, a free guide listing 60 CSA farms in the Appalachian Grown region, is available now at farmers markets and community centers throughout the region as well as digitally at asapconnections.org/find-local-food/csa.

 

The virtual CSA Fair will feature farms providing CSAs in Buncombe County and the surrounding region. In addition to traditional produce farms, the fair will include farms with meat and flower CSA programs. The virtual fair will have a similar format as live fairs in the past—a relaxed setting where attendees can talk to farmers about their CSA programs, products, growing practices, and more. Attendees can sign up for CSAs during the fair or follow up with farmers later. The fair is free to attend, but participants do need to register for the event to get a Zoom link.

 

For farmers, the CSA Fair is a chance to build relationships, even if attendees decide not to purchase a share. “[The customers we meet at the CSA Fair] tend to really want to know the farmer and the food, meaning they are a bit more adventurous when it comes to trying new things,” says K.P. Whaley of Tiny Bridge Farm. “They are interested in knowing how and what we are growing, and really want us to be successful as a farm operation. We may get some customers from the fair and that’s great. But we also start building relationships with future customers.”

 

Participating farms at press time include Bearwallow Valley Farms, Blazing Star Flowers, Colfax Creek Farm, Creekside Farm, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, Olivette Farm, and Tiny Bridge Farm, with more farms to be added before the fair. Check asapconnections.org/events/csa-fair for updates and to register.

 

ABOUT ASAP (APPALACHIAN SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PROJECT)

ASAP’s mission is to help local farms thrive, link farmers to markets and supporters, and build healthy communities through connections to local food. To learn more, visit asapconnections.org.

 

North Carolina COVID-19 Restricts to Ease Beginning February 26th
Feb 28 all-day
Online w/ Henderson County Chamber
Governor Roy Cooper announced Wednesday, February 24 that with the improvement of COVID numbers in North Carolin and the continued increase in vaccine distribution, the state will begin easing COVID-19 restrictions. Executive Order 195 will take effect Friday, February 26th at 5 pm and will remain in effect until March 26th at 5 pm.
Executive Order 195 lifts the Modified Stay at Home Order requiring people to stay at home and businesses to close to the public between 10 pm and 5 am. The number of people who may gather indoors has increased from 10 to 25. The 50-person outdoor gathering limit remains unchanged. The curfew on the sale of alcohol for onsite consumption will be moved from 9 pm to 11 pm.
Some businesses, including bars and amusement parks, will now be open for patrons indoors with new occupancy restrictions. Venues and arenas will have increased occupancy both indoors and outdoors.
Executive Order No. 195 has two general categories of occupancy restrictions: 30% capacity and 50% capacity. Because indoor spaces have a higher risk of spread for COVID-19, indoor facilities in the 30%-occupancy category may not exceed two hundred fifty (250) people per indoor room or indoor space.
 30% Capacity Limit (may not exceed 250-persons in indoor spaces)
  • Bars
  • Meeting, Reception, and Conference Spaces
  • Lounges (including tobacco) and Night Clubs
  • Indoor areas of Amusement Parks
  • Movie Theatres
  • Entertainment facilities (e.g., bingo parlors, gaming establishments)
  • Sports Arenas and Fields*
  • Venues*
*Indoor event venues with more than 5,000 seats may be excepted from the 250 person limit if they follow additional safety measures up to 15% capacity.
50% Capacity Limit
  • Restaurants
  • Breweries, Wineries, Distilleries
  • Fitness and Physical Activity Facilities (e.g., gyms, bowling alleys, rock climbing facilities)
  • Pools
  • Museums and Aquariums
  • Retailers
  • Outdoor areas of Amusement Parks
  • Salons, Personal Care, Tattoo Parlors
Safety protocols such as masks, social distancing, and frequent handwashing will continue to be important as people adjust to the new order, health officials said.
North Carolina’s Modified Stay at Home Order Extended to Feb. 28th
Feb 28 all-day
North Carolina
Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen today announced that North Carolina’s Modified Stay At Home Order, requiring people to be at home from 10 pm – 5 am, will be extended. Face covering requirements and restrictions on individuals gathering in both indoor and outdoor settings are still in place. Executive Order No. 189 will be in effect through at least Sunday, February 28, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.
The Governor also announced the extensions of executive orders for “to-go” or delivery sales of mixed beverages and evictions moratorium – Executive Order No. 190  and Executive Order No. 191.
Shiloh Peace Garden Food Pantry + PPE Supplies for those In Need
Feb 28 all-day
Shiloh Peace Garden

Community Collaboration Helps Neighbors in Time of Need

Food insecurity has risen significantly across the country due to pandemic-related job losses and struggles, and in Buncombe County local food pantries are popping up to help feed neighborhood families.

A collaborative, community-led project between Bountiful Cities, St. James AME Church, East End Valley Street Neighborhood Association, and Shiloh Community Association has neighbors helping neighbors to get non-perishable food and personal protective equipment (PPE) right where it’s needed most.

To serve people in need in the community, there are two new food pantries located at St. James AME Church and the Shiloh Peace Garden. Both pantries were handmade by Asheville local, Max Mandler of Mandler Construction. The pantry at St. James AME is dedicated to the memory of Bernadette Thompson, a longtime community activist and faithful member of the church for many years, and features artwork by local artist Jenny Pickens.

Community members will find both pantries stocked with non-perishable, nutritious food and free masks, hand sanitizers, cleaning supplies, and other items that will assist individuals in staying safe and preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Upkeep and stocking the pantry will be a joint effort among the sponsoring organizations and the community-at-large. Thanks to CARES funding, Buncombe County government was able to help with initial supply efforts. The pantries will be open seven days a week and are set up to be self-serve. Everyone is welcome to utilize the pantries for both food and PPE needs.

St. James AME Church Food Pantry + PPE Supplies for those In Need
Feb 28 all-day
St. James AME Church

Community Collaboration Helps Neighbors in Time of Need

Food insecurity has risen significantly across the country due to pandemic-related job losses and struggles, and in Buncombe County local food pantries are popping up to help feed neighborhood families.

A collaborative, community-led project between Bountiful Cities, St. James AME Church, East End Valley Street Neighborhood Association, and Shiloh Community Association has neighbors helping neighbors to get non-perishable food and personal protective equipment (PPE) right where it’s needed most.

To serve people in need in the community, there are two new food pantries located at St. James AME Church and the Shiloh Peace Garden. Both pantries were handmade by Asheville local, Max Mandler of Mandler Construction. The pantry at St. James AME is dedicated to the memory of Bernadette Thompson, a longtime community activist and faithful member of the church for many years, and features artwork by local artist Jenny Pickens.

Community members will find both pantries stocked with non-perishable, nutritious food and free masks, hand sanitizers, cleaning supplies, and other items that will assist individuals in staying safe and preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Upkeep and stocking the pantry will be a joint effort among the sponsoring organizations and the community-at-large. Thanks to CARES funding, Buncombe County government was able to help with initial supply efforts. The pantries will be open seven days a week and are set up to be self-serve. Everyone is welcome to utilize the pantries for both food and PPE needs.

We’re Hiring! 1-year Internship Hickory Nut Gap Farm
Feb 28 all-day
Online w/ Hickory Nut Gap Farm
We’re Hiring!

1-year Internship

START DATE: April 1, 2021
Are you someone who wants to work in agriculture? Interested in learning more about regenerative farming practices in a safe and inclusive environment?

Jump start your agriculture career with our 1-year immersive internship. We will put you in the driver’s seat of our operation so that you can learn while doing and expand your understanding of all aspects of the farming industry. If you’re hardworking, honest, committed, and passionate about what you do, then we want you!

Farm interns play a vital role in the day-to-day operation of farming practices on our 300+ acre farm in Fairview, NC.  During the 1-year time commitment, interns will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of livestock farming, berry and apple cultivation, and a variety of farm maintenance skills including carpentry and plumbing.

Hickory Nut Gap Farm has been a family business since 1916 and is currently operated by 4th generation farmer, Jamie Ager.  He and his family opened the farm to the public for tours, events, and activities while still maintaining year round meat production in 100% grassfed beef and pasture-raised pork and chicken.  Since no other regional farm operates as both a production facility and agritourism model, this is a unique opportunity for interns to see how business and farming intertwine. Hickory Nut Gap is also one of the leading pioneers in sustainable farming, rotational grazing, and regenerative agriculture practices in the Southeast Region.

MAHEC Vaccine Waiting: List Healthcare Workers, Childcare workers and people 65+
Feb 28 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
UNCA Reuter Center
Community Event
COVID Vaccines
for Healthcare Workers,
Childcare workers
and people 65+
Feb 26th, Feb 27th and Feb 28th
8AM – 5PM
UNCA Reuter Center
1 University Heights
Asheville, NC 28804

Individuals 65 years old and older, health care workers and child care workers can now join the COVID-19 vaccination wait list provided by MAHEC. Staff will reach out to schedule individuals registered on the wait list.

Register for the waitlist HERE.

Free transportation to COVID-19 Immunization Clinics throughout Henderson County
Feb 28 @ 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Henderson County

Fre

You have a spot – Need a lift?

WCCA cares about our community’s health! Apple Country Transportation is offering free rides to Henderson County vaccination sites for Covid-19 immunizations. A pre-scheduled vaccination appointment is required. Call Apple Country Transportation at (828) 698-8571 for more info and schedule a ride today!

Seniors (65+) in Henderson County can schedule an immunization appointment in one of 4 ways:
1) Pardee UNC Health: Call (828) 694-8222 or visit: www.pardeehospital.org/covid-19
2) Advent Health: Visit: www.AdventHealthNC.com
3) Henderson County Health Dept: Call (828) 585-4700

Once a vaccine appointment is scheduled, individuals may contact Apple Country Transportation
at (828) 698-8571 to schedule to immunization clinic sites in Henderson County including East
Henderson High School, Blue Ridge Community College, Apple Valley Middle, North Henderson
High School and other community sites as they become available.