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.
During this trip, you will participate in and observe how the Cuban agricultural community has embraced agroecology in all of its forms and learn why Cuba is considered one of the leading global experts in agroecological methods.
— Learn from farmers and food activists about Cuba’s transition to agroecological farming practices and its national policies that prioritize organic farming and hunger remediation.
— Connect with farmers, consumers, activists, NGOs, policymakers, and experts working to transform the global food system.
— Acquire the knowledge and strategies to create just, sustainable, local, and healthy food systems in your own communities.
Agroecology = Agriculture + Ecology
Agroecology is the study of ecological systems as they apply to agriculture. It is a science, a movement, and a practice. At OGS, we like to think of the farm as a system and observe nature as the ideal model of sustainable production.
Agroecological practices strive to incorporate all elements of an agricultural ecosystem—water, nutrients, soil, plants, and animals—to maximize production and minimize impact. Agroecological methods include the following:
— Silvopasture = animals in the woods
— Agroforestry = forest farming
— Permaculture = systems designed to be sustainable and self-sufficient
Of course, each of these methods has been practiced on every continent since humans have existed, though they are only recently being named and defined by the modern sustainable agriculture community.

Included with admission
Our fun-for-all-ages botanical model train displays invite you to experience our grounds in an engaging new way. Located in the Conservatory in the Walled Garden, the displays feature replicas of structures connected with Biltmore and its founder George Vanderbilt. Each beautifully executed piece was handcrafted from such natural elements as leaves, bark, and twigs.
In compliance with state and local mandates related to COVID-19, all guests must enter the Conservatory via the ADA entrance in the back and follow a one-way route.
Included with admission
A unique-to-Biltmore, large-scale outdoor sculpture will be crafted and installed in Antler Hill Village this spring by Patrick Dougherty. Over the last three decades, this internationally-acclaimed artist has combined his carpentry skills and love of nature to build over 300 of these wondrous works, captivating the hearts and imaginations of viewers worldwide.
Image: Close Ties (2006) Scottish Basketmakers Circle, Dingwall, Scotland. Photo: Fin Macrae
NOTE: This is an example of Patrick Dougherty’s work; the artist will create Biltmore’s unique structure in Antler Hill Village this spring.

Summer at Biltmore offers an abundance of opportunities to explore our 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain backyard and create the kind of memories that last a lifetime. Wander through historic gardens, along winding trails, and within the spacious halls of America’s Largest Home®. Enjoy extraordinary experiences and peace of mind in one spectacular setting: only at Biltmore.

“Shine and Dine” on the railway! We cordially invite you to hop on board The Carolina Shine, GSMR’s All-Adult First Class Moonshine Car! We will be proudly serving hand crafted, triple-distilled, craft moonshine. Some of the smoothest tasting moonshine in the Carolinas!
Offered on the Nantahala Gorge excursion, this shine and dine experience begins in a renovated First Class train fleet car, The Carolina Shine. The interior features copper lined walls filled with the history of moonshining in North Carolina. Learn about the proud tradition that the Appalachians established when bootlegging was an acceptable way of life and local home brews were the best in town. Read about Swain County’s very own Major Redmond, the most famous mountain moonshine outlaw of the 19th century.
Once your appetite for knowledge is satisfied, enjoy sample tastings of flavors like Apple Pie, Blackberry, Blueberry, Cherry, Peach, and Strawberry moonshine. If the samples are not enough, there will be plenty of Moonshine infused cocktails like Copper Cola or Moonshiner’s Mimosa available for purchase. GSMR is excited to feature multiple craft NC based distilleries to serve our guests only the best! Each jar is handcrafted and authentically infused with real fruit, the way moonshine was meant to be made. Passengers will also enjoy a full service All-Adult First Class ride with an attendant and a specialty boxed lunch. During the month of October. 9am and 2pm departures. 9am will feature the option of a delicious Sausage & Bacon Quiche or Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole. The 2pm departure will be serving the popular BBQ meal.
| Diesel | $109.00 ($114.00 October) | Not Permitted |
| Steam | $119.00 ($126.00 October) | Not Permitted |
| Locomotive | Adult (21+ Only) | Under 21 |
|---|
How to Purchase
You can purchase your tickets online or call our reservations department at (800) 872-4681. Or, you can purchase your tickets the day of in the Bryson City Depot. No matter how you purchase tickets, they’ll be waiting at will call.

AGE LIMIT: All Ages are Welcome
RAIN OR SHINE; NO REFUNDS

Midnight Run is a high-energy, Tennessee-based bluegrass band that offers up a fresh approach to the “High Lonesome” sound while staying true to the rich traditions of bluegrass music.
Originating in the Gateway of the Great Smoky Mountains, Midnight Run began its journey in February of 2015, at the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where they became a permanent staple of everyday life at the distillery. Midnight Run is a high-energy, Tennessee-based bluegrass band made up of five like-minded musicians and graduates of college music programs. They set out to create a group that is tied to the rich traditions of bluegrass music and offers up a fresh approach to the “High Lonesome” sound. Each member draws from their influences in different genres including bluegrass, country, celtic, old-time and rock n’ roll.
Midnight Run stays true to their musical roots with tight harmonies and reverence for “old-style” bluegrass music, all while stretching the boundaries of the genre with their song selection, stage antics, and exciting performance.
Favorites among bluegrass enthusiast and non-bluegrass audiences alike; they keep the energy high and the audience on their feet. Midnight Run knows when they are on stage; it is not only about the music, it is about connecting with the audience and leaving them with a memory that will last a lifetime. Midnight Run has been referred to as one of the most entertaining new acts on the bluegrass scene today.
Now, with over 200 shows a year, they find themselves playing to audiences from all over the world. From the moment they step on stage you’ll feel like you are in the hills of Tennessee, sitting on the front porch, listening to some of the finest music that the Smoky Mountains have to offer. Together Seth Mulder, Colton Powers, Ben Watlington, Max Etling, and Cody Bauer create a powerhouse of music that you do not want to miss!
Come enjoy an evening of live music, food and drinks on the Isis Music Hall Lawn. Reservations are highly recommended.

The Old-Time Radio Comedy Show
[with the most modern of Stand-Up Acts]
Recorded Live for Buzz Radio Asheville
at The Orange Peel July 1,2021
Presented by Slice of Life Comedy and Buzz Radio Asheville: enjoy a fun night of old-time style radio recordings with premier modern stand-up comics, straight from the 2021 streets of Asheville
Be the LIVE Studio Audience Laugh Track to this hilarious candle-lit seated event. Touches of old-style radio recordings, for example filled with parody commercials, musical stylings, and ridiculous, spontaneous interactions! FARM BURGER homemade chips & dip and other light snacks are provided.
This will be a night you never forget —also because your laughter will be recorded for all-time as the stand-ups record LIVE comedy for Buzz Radio Asheville, our only “All Asheville, All the Time, Original-Content ” online station. [Comedy bits from the show will be played in a regular rotation along with Buzz’s stellar music line up]
Hosted by: Cary Goff of Disclaimer Comedy
Featuring Asheville Rock-Stars of Comedy:
Petey Smith McDowell
Hilliary Begley
Moira Goree
Jess Cooley
Morgan Bost
With the hilarious music stylings of Ryan Cox
What:
The Old-Time Radio Comedy Show
[with the most modern of Stand-Up Acts]
Recorded LIVE for Buzz Radio Asheville
Where:
The Orange Peel, Downtown Asheville
When:
July 1,2021, 8p [Doors open at 7p]
Cost:
$17
Contact Michele Scheve at [email protected] for more info
FB Event: https://fb.me/e/1a12lOD0E
Tickets: https://theorangepeel.net/…/the-old-time-radio-comedy…/
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| The residents of the Smith-McDowell House and grounds were woven in to the fabric of Asheville.
This driving tour begins at the Smith-McDowell House Museum on the campus of A-B Tech and continues through historic sites related to early occupants of the house. |

Ride in style on the historic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad aboard your very own restored Caboose. These are great for family reunions, birthday parties, private meetings, corporate field trips or just any time!
Our cabooses accommodate up to 15 people with seating on the main level and in the cupola. (And, remember, babies are people, too!) The cabooses feature heat, private bathrooms, windows that can be opened, and open air vestibules at each end for unobstructed views. Advanced reservations are required and availability of caboose rentals are limited.
A platter of cheese and crackers, and an assortment of 15 bottled Coca-Cola products are included. Plus, the caboose is the only place where you can bring your own food and drink (please, no alcohol) in picnic baskets or coolers.
You can charter the caboose on:
Best value for small groups and private parties up to 15 passengers. Available by phone only. Book now by calling 800-872-4681.

Enjoy this trip combining the Great Smoky Mountains Railroads trip with the Waterfall Jeep® tour. You’ll begin your trip in Bryson City, NC, with a 2 hour (approximate) railroad excursion over Fontana Lake and into the Nantahala Gorge. As you travel on the train, watch paddlers challenge the rapids. At the top of the line, disembark from the train and climb aboard Wildwater’s customized Jeep® for a 2-hour (approximate) personal exploration up the mountain, past waterfalls and lakes, up to the Appalachian Trail and back. A delicious deli lunch is included.
Available by phone only. Book now by calling 800-872-4681.
* Children 40 – 80 lbs. are required to sit in the front passenger seat with the airbag disengaged using a child booster seat. Children 80 lbs. or greater will sit in the back using a lap seat belt. If there is more than one child in the 40 – 80 lb. range, the second child will sit in the back using a lap belt.
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| Contained by its larger growing neighbor (Asheville), the French Broad and Swannanoa rivers, and the Southern Railway line, the Town of Victoria existed from 1887 until 1905, when it was absorbed into Asheville. The community—which included the Smith-McDowell House and Fernihurst mansion—originally incorporated into a town to prevent unwanted development (particularly from the Vanderbilts). |

Included with admission
Our fun-for-all-ages botanical model train displays invite you to experience our grounds in an engaging new way. Located in the Conservatory in the Walled Garden, the displays feature replicas of structures connected with Biltmore and its founder George Vanderbilt. Each beautifully executed piece was handcrafted from such natural elements as leaves, bark, and twigs.
In compliance with state and local mandates related to COVID-19, all guests must enter the Conservatory via the ADA entrance in the back and follow a one-way route.
Included with admission
A unique-to-Biltmore, large-scale outdoor sculpture will be crafted and installed in Antler Hill Village this spring by Patrick Dougherty. Over the last three decades, this internationally-acclaimed artist has combined his carpentry skills and love of nature to build over 300 of these wondrous works, captivating the hearts and imaginations of viewers worldwide.
Image: Close Ties (2006) Scottish Basketmakers Circle, Dingwall, Scotland. Photo: Fin Macrae
NOTE: This is an example of Patrick Dougherty’s work; the artist will create Biltmore’s unique structure in Antler Hill Village this spring.

Summer at Biltmore offers an abundance of opportunities to explore our 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain backyard and create the kind of memories that last a lifetime. Wander through historic gardens, along winding trails, and within the spacious halls of America’s Largest Home®. Enjoy extraordinary experiences and peace of mind in one spectacular setting: only at Biltmore.

Brunch B’Yahad is now available through Zoom meeting here.
Join new and old friends for light brunch, socialization and lively discussion. Featured guest speakers, and relevant cultural and timely topics will fill our minds.

“Shine and Dine” on the railway! We cordially invite you to hop on board The Carolina Shine, GSMR’s All-Adult First Class Moonshine Car! We will be proudly serving hand crafted, triple-distilled, craft moonshine. Some of the smoothest tasting moonshine in the Carolinas!
Offered on the Nantahala Gorge excursion, this shine and dine experience begins in a renovated First Class train fleet car, The Carolina Shine. The interior features copper lined walls filled with the history of moonshining in North Carolina. Learn about the proud tradition that the Appalachians established when bootlegging was an acceptable way of life and local home brews were the best in town. Read about Swain County’s very own Major Redmond, the most famous mountain moonshine outlaw of the 19th century.
Once your appetite for knowledge is satisfied, enjoy sample tastings of flavors like Apple Pie, Blackberry, Blueberry, Cherry, Peach, and Strawberry moonshine. If the samples are not enough, there will be plenty of Moonshine infused cocktails like Copper Cola or Moonshiner’s Mimosa available for purchase. GSMR is excited to feature multiple craft NC based distilleries to serve our guests only the best! Each jar is handcrafted and authentically infused with real fruit, the way moonshine was meant to be made. Passengers will also enjoy a full service All-Adult First Class ride with an attendant and a specialty boxed lunch. During the month of October. 9am and 2pm departures. 9am will feature the option of a delicious Sausage & Bacon Quiche or Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole. The 2pm departure will be serving the popular BBQ meal.
| Diesel | $109.00 ($114.00 October) | Not Permitted |
| Steam | $119.00 ($126.00 October) | Not Permitted |
| Locomotive | Adult (21+ Only) | Under 21 |
|---|
How to Purchase
You can purchase your tickets online or call our reservations department at (800) 872-4681. Or, you can purchase your tickets the day of in the Bryson City Depot. No matter how you purchase tickets, they’ll be waiting at will call.
Appalachian Forest Plants & Trees on the Mountains 2 Sea trail
A gentle introduction to the world of foraging
Join us for a walk through an Appalachian Oak Hickory Forest as we learn how to identify plants & tree around us and gain valuable experience, hands-on, with whatever we find on our adventure together! We will move at a steady pace & I am certain you will come away from this experience with valuable skills and lifelong plant allies.
Learn more about Mason Oak at http://www.friendofplants.com
DIRECTIONS TO LOCATION
From Asheville-
drive up the BRParkway until the BullGap Exit & sign for weaverville, turn left onto Elk Mountain scenic parkway. You will see cars off the road at the first switchback. Park here.
From Weaverville-
take Reems creek to right turn on ox creek, drive 4 miles up to the BRP. Once you make it to Elk MTN Scenic Parkway, turn left through the open gate towards the BRParkway. After the first switchback, you should see cars parked on the roadside – park here. If you get to the parkway you went too far.
EVENT DETAILS – please read!!
We will walk the Mountains to Sea (MTS) with Mason and Enjoy Your Life! He is an experienced forager and wild foods teacher. He will show you what kind of plants, trees & mushrooms are growing around you, if they are edible or medicinal, what they might teach us, and how they might be connected with the bigger picture of life on this beautiful planet, Earth.
Dress appropriately to walk and move around the forest.
Bring a basket or bag and knife if you’d like to harvest some tasty edibles.
Children are definitely welcome and encouraged!
Dogs are okay if well behaved.
I suggest bringing a notepad and pencil.
Having a camera/phone can help you remember what we identify on our walk.
You can take photos and video of plants and we ask that you might share them on the meet-up event page. Ask permission for photos of people.
Bring water if you need it.
Bring any medicine that you may need and bring ANYTHING you will need to TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF.
Bring your curiosity, an open mind and a willingness to learn – I’ll see you there!

“It’s hard for me to sit still,” admits Rob Leines, the country-rock frontman and blue-collar road warrior who regularly spends more than 200 nights a year onstage, bashing out a mix of Telecaster twang, guitar-driven grit, and southern storytelling.
Long before he paid tribute to the touring lifestyle with albums like 2021’s Blood Sweat and Beers, Leines crisscrossed the country as a child. The son of a military man, he was born in Georgia and spent time in both Utah and California before returning to the motherland, where he graduated high school and began working as a whitewater raft guide. Leines loved the South — its waterways, mountains, and great outdoors — and although he’d eventually move back to California, those southern roots would always play a role in his music.
LIVE ON THE OUTDOOR STAGE
GENRE: Indie Hip Hop
AGE LIMIT: All Ages are Welcome
RAIN OR SHINE; NO REFUNDS
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Tickets $26.50 + Tax/Fees
We are thrilled to welcome Saliva with special guests Contagious to our Outdoor Concert Series.
Come and enjoy a night of rock n’ roll in the Swannanoa Valley.
Make sure to get your $1 membership to Silverados in advance for each ticket holder. (Required by NC Law for entry) – Available here: MEMBERSHIPS
GATES OPEN: 5pm
SHOW STARTS: 7PM
LOCATION: Silverados – 2898 US Hwy 70, Black Mountain NC 28711
AGE LIMIT: All Ages Show
WEATHER: Rain or shine – No refunds will be issued due to inclement weather.
PARKING: Parking available at Appalachian Tool (One Minute Away) 121 Lytle Cove Rd for $10.
SHUTTLE: Free shuttle service provided starting at 6pm.
THE GOOD STUFF: Food trucks and full bar service available onsite. Outside food & beverage is not permitted
SEATING: Festival Style General Admission – we don’t provide seating. Feel free to bring your favorite camping chair to enjoy the show. . Bags are not permitted.
GUEST SAFETY: No Weapons of any kind allowed on the property. Metal Detectors will be at the gates to ensure the safety of all guests.
REFUNDS: Refunds only issued in the event of a cancellation.
Silverados is on the public bus route.
NC Covid Protocols will be followed
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| The residents of the Smith-McDowell House and grounds were woven in to the fabric of Asheville.
This driving tour begins at the Smith-McDowell House Museum on the campus of A-B Tech and continues through historic sites related to early occupants of the house. |

Ride in style on the historic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad aboard your very own restored Caboose. These are great for family reunions, birthday parties, private meetings, corporate field trips or just any time!
Our cabooses accommodate up to 15 people with seating on the main level and in the cupola. (And, remember, babies are people, too!) The cabooses feature heat, private bathrooms, windows that can be opened, and open air vestibules at each end for unobstructed views. Advanced reservations are required and availability of caboose rentals are limited.
A platter of cheese and crackers, and an assortment of 15 bottled Coca-Cola products are included. Plus, the caboose is the only place where you can bring your own food and drink (please, no alcohol) in picnic baskets or coolers.
You can charter the caboose on:
Best value for small groups and private parties up to 15 passengers. Available by phone only. Book now by calling 800-872-4681.

Enjoy this trip combining the Great Smoky Mountains Railroads trip with the Waterfall Jeep® tour. You’ll begin your trip in Bryson City, NC, with a 2 hour (approximate) railroad excursion over Fontana Lake and into the Nantahala Gorge. As you travel on the train, watch paddlers challenge the rapids. At the top of the line, disembark from the train and climb aboard Wildwater’s customized Jeep® for a 2-hour (approximate) personal exploration up the mountain, past waterfalls and lakes, up to the Appalachian Trail and back. A delicious deli lunch is included.
Available by phone only. Book now by calling 800-872-4681.
* Children 40 – 80 lbs. are required to sit in the front passenger seat with the airbag disengaged using a child booster seat. Children 80 lbs. or greater will sit in the back using a lap seat belt. If there is more than one child in the 40 – 80 lb. range, the second child will sit in the back using a lap belt.
![]() |
| Contained by its larger growing neighbor (Asheville), the French Broad and Swannanoa rivers, and the Southern Railway line, the Town of Victoria existed from 1887 until 1905, when it was absorbed into Asheville. The community—which included the Smith-McDowell House and Fernihurst mansion—originally incorporated into a town to prevent unwanted development (particularly from the Vanderbilts). |

River’s End Restaurant is an iconic spot for locals and visitors to Bryson City. Enjoy spectacular views of the gorge, with paddlers passing through as they complete their Nantahala River Rafting trip. Stop in for year-round lunch and dinner, with weekend brunch during the summer season, and choose from a wide range of appetizing entrees, burgers, salads, pizza, and sandwiches. Hang out for a while and enjoy a large selection of signature cocktails, wine, and beer, including local favorites.
In River’s End Restaurant, every seat has a view of the river! Enjoy music by the river and views of paddlers passing through as they complete their Nantahala River Rafting trip. Join our waitlist online to reserve a table or order online and grab your meal to go, for a sunny lunch right by the river!

Included with admission
Our fun-for-all-ages botanical model train displays invite you to experience our grounds in an engaging new way. Located in the Conservatory in the Walled Garden, the displays feature replicas of structures connected with Biltmore and its founder George Vanderbilt. Each beautifully executed piece was handcrafted from such natural elements as leaves, bark, and twigs.
In compliance with state and local mandates related to COVID-19, all guests must enter the Conservatory via the ADA entrance in the back and follow a one-way route.
Included with admission
A unique-to-Biltmore, large-scale outdoor sculpture will be crafted and installed in Antler Hill Village this spring by Patrick Dougherty. Over the last three decades, this internationally-acclaimed artist has combined his carpentry skills and love of nature to build over 300 of these wondrous works, captivating the hearts and imaginations of viewers worldwide.
Image: Close Ties (2006) Scottish Basketmakers Circle, Dingwall, Scotland. Photo: Fin Macrae
NOTE: This is an example of Patrick Dougherty’s work; the artist will create Biltmore’s unique structure in Antler Hill Village this spring.

Summer at Biltmore offers an abundance of opportunities to explore our 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain backyard and create the kind of memories that last a lifetime. Wander through historic gardens, along winding trails, and within the spacious halls of America’s Largest Home®. Enjoy extraordinary experiences and peace of mind in one spectacular setting: only at Biltmore.



