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.

Tuesday, July 9, 2024
Ribbon Cutting for Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks
Jul 9 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks Realtors

Come celebrate the Grand Opening of Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks real estate firm! Beverly-Hanks has joined Allen Tate and is now part of the #1 real estate company in the Carolinas! Join us in celebrating their ribbon cutting with light bites as well as refreshments.

Live storytelling: Woods & Wilds
Jul 9 @ 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Highland Brewing Company

We are nature and not separate from it. So, let’s come together to celebrate the forests and community we ARE. To lift our spirits, touch our hearts, and change our minds about what is possible when we combine our forces to create magic.

We’ve partnered with SlayTheMic to bring our annual event to Asheville again this August.

Woods & Wilds will feature five live storytellers, music, and fun for all.

Our goal is to raise $5,000 in donations to support the meaningful work we’re doing at the intersection of forests, climate, and justice.  Reserve your entry in advance. You can help us reach our goal with a suggested donation of $25 per person.

Wednesday, July 10, 2024
Ribbon Cutting for Civic Federal Credit Union
Jul 10 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Civic Federal Credit Union

Across North Carolina, local government employees provide essential services for their everyday lives. Civic was created to be part of the local government world, offering member-specific financial solutions and support to build stronger communities. A member-focused Credit Union, they serve their members — not corporate interests. That means everything we do begins and ends with you.

Join us in celebrating their Grand Opening with light bites as well as beer, wine and refreshments from Twisted Laurel.

Thursday, July 11, 2024
Business After Hours
Jul 11 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Holiday Inn Asheville East – Blue Ridge Parkway

Come join us for Business After Hours at Holiday Inn Asheville East  – Blue Ridge Parkway!

Feel free to bring a gift to be raffled off as door prizes towards the end of the evening. Bring your business cards for networking and a chance to win prizes!

 

Please take a look below at our members who have renewed for another year!

 

 

This event is offered as a benefit for Chamber membership. We welcome you to come and check us out! Please contact Jessica Kanupp, our Member Development Specialist, at [email protected] if you’re considering a Chamber membership.

 

Sunday, July 14, 2024
Downtown Asheville Treasure Hunt – Walking Team Scavenger Hunt!
Jul 14 @ 2:00 pm
Dssolvr

Guests will meet at Dssolvr Asheville (63 N. Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801) and then depart with their treasure map on a walking team scavenger hunt where they will use their minds and feet to follow clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes to find and unlock the treasure chest for a grand prize!

The hunt involves walking a distance of up to 2.0 miles in total and will take place rain or shine, so long as the weather does not become dangerous. The hunt typically takes about 60 minutes to complete.

Children under 10 years old are welcome to participate for free with the purchase of an Adult ticket.

Monday, July 15, 2024
Football in July Tailgate
Jul 15 @ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
Wicked Weed/Brad Johnson Golf Classic
Jul 16 @ 10:00 am
The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
PROpel AVL Grow Series: Acquistion Entrepreneurship
Jul 16 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

The July session of the PROpel AVL GROW series for young professionals, we’ll explore “Acquistion Entrepreneurship.”

In the ever-evolving business landscape, “Acquisition Entrepreneurship” has emerged as a powerful pathway for young professionals eager to carve out their niche in the corporate world.

This presentation, designed specifically for forward-thinking and ambitious young professionals, will delve into the complexities and opportunities of acquiring and growing existing businesses as a form of entrepreneurship. Unlike traditional entrepreneurship that starts from scratch, acquisition entrepreneurship offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards involving the identification, evaluation, and successful takeover of existing enterprises.

The program will cover essential aspects of acquisition entrepreneurship, including the art of identifying potential acquisition targets, conducting due diligence, understanding valuation techniques, and negotiating deals. Participants will gain insights into the critical skills needed to navigate these processes successfully, such as financial analysis, market assessment, and leadership abilities to integrate and grow the acquired business. Additionally, the presentation will highlight the common pitfalls and how to avoid them, ensuring a smoother transition into ownership and management roles.

Key takeaways from this session will include specific, actionable strategies that young professionals can apply immediately in their pursuit of business acquisition. These include:

Frameworks for Identifying Suitable Acquisition Targets: Learn how to spot businesses with growth potential and understand what makes an acquisition target viable.

Due Diligence Checklists and Techniques: Gain knowledge on conducting thorough due diligence, a critical step in assessing a business’s true value and potential risks.

Negotiation Strategies for Acquisition: Discover key negotiation tactics for acquisition deals to ensure a beneficial agreement for all parties involved.

Post-Acquisition Integration Plans: Understand the steps necessary to successfully integrate an acquired company, from employee management to merging systems and cultures.

Financial Analysis and Funding Options: Explore financial analysis basics for acquisition and learn about various funding options, including loans, investors, and other financial instruments.

 

About the presenter:

Benjamin Wann, CMA, CSCA, MBA, PMP, owns Asheville accounting firm CFO Consultants, LLC, with a team of 13 and 2 offices in NC.

Originally from the Philadelphia region and coming from a 10-year career providing insights to executives of mid-sized manufacturing firms, Ben transitioned to entrepreneurship full-time in Nov 2022. Ben’s thesis was that the small business community would value the same expertise, technology and know-how that the large organizations have to help accelerate their own businesses.

 

12:00-1:00pm – GROW Session

Sandwiches, salad and chips will be catered by Del Vecchios!

Please register for this event in order to help us plan accordingly.

About PROpel AVL:
Designed for young professionals between the ages of 21 and 40 in the Asheville/Buncombe area, PROpel AVL provides outstanding professional leadership development opportunities through educational seminars, service opportunities and networking.

Stay connected with text alerts! Text #propelavl to 828-827-5332 for updates and reminders about PROpel AVL programs.

Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Chamber Orientation
Jul 17 @ 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

Chamber members impact the local business community by making an investment in Chamber membership. Whether you’re a new member, a long-time member with new staff, or a business who’s considering membership, we welcome you to attend our Chamber Orientation to learn how to get the most value from your membership investment.

Chamber President Kit Cramer will give an overview of the work the Chamber is doing every day to build our community, including how we support our thriving economy by growing jobs, advocating for a business-friendly environment and helping our members prosper. We’ll dive into member benefits and share ideas of how you can take advantage of the many opportunities available to you as a member. You’ll also have a chance to meet Chamber staff and learn how you can get more engaged.

Orientation is also a great chance to meet other Chamber members.

This event is free, but registration is requested in order to help us plan appropriately.

Thursday, July 18, 2024
Ribbon Cutting for Drip Sauna
Jul 18 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Drip Sauna

Drip is Asheville’s first and only wood fired sauna and cold plunge experience, overlooking the beautiful French Broad River. Enjoy a traditional sauna experience in the great outdoors with friends, for a truly unique experience that will leave you energized and inspired. They’re supporting events through mobile delivery and bringing the heat to nature near you.

Come check out their new location to take in the view while enjoying a sauna and cold plunge experience. They will offer a raffle for a free sauna experience as well as other fun items on site.

Friday, July 19, 2024
AI In Production Conference
Jul 19 all-day
The Collider

AI in Production is a two-day, single-track conference designed for product teams and software developers tasked with building AI products, offering guidance on best practices and starting points.

This community event brings together professionals to exchange ideas, learn about the latest AI practices and tools, and discuss their applications and limitations with industry leaders and peers in AI and software development.

Join us to learn, network, gain inspiration, and shape the future of AI in business and applications.

Sunday, July 21, 2024
The Big Secret Family Festival (featuring your fav AVL bands, circus acts, and performances!)
Jul 21 all-day
Pisgah Brewing Outdoor Stage

This is the 3rd year of THE BIG SECRET Family Festival! We combine fantastic family friendly sets from your favorite AVL bands with improvisation, circus acts, and wonderfully strange performance art to make EVERYONE feel like a kid! And while we have fun, we raise funds for other kids in the area. In the first two years, THE BIG SECRET has raised $36,000 for local kids and families, and we’re going strong! This year, we’ve got EMPIRE STRIKES BRASS, THE FRITZ, 23 SKIDOO & THE SECRET AGENCY, THE DELTA HOUSE JAZZ BAND, circus acts curated by TOYBOX THEATRE, Cherokee storytelling by JOHN GRANT, and much more. All profits will go to DELTA HOUSE Afterschool Program and Bounty & Soul Free Food Program. The show is at PISGAH BREWING’s Outdoor Stage on SUNDAY, JULY 21, from Noon till Dark. Tickets are $23 in advance, $30 day of show, and kids under 3 get in FREE!

Thursday, July 25, 2024
Ribbon Cutting for Coldwell Banker Advantage
Jul 25 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Coldwell Banker Advantage Western Region

Join us in celebrating the Grand Opening of Coldwell Banker Advantage with a ribbon cutting!

Saturday, July 27, 2024
The Art Dash 5k
Jul 27 @ 8:30 am
Smoky Park Super Clubs Boat House

The Art Dash 5k in Asheville — on Saturday, July 27, starting at 8:30 a.m. — helps raise fund for LEAF Global Arts.

Runners can enjoy a fast, flat out and back run along the River Arts District Greenway, with Asheville-based performance artists along the race course showcasing our city’s special style. Start and end at the Smoky Park Super Clubs Boat House riverside, 350 Riverside Drive.

Sunday, July 28, 2024
Downtown Asheville Treasure Hunt – Walking Team Scavenger Hunt!
Jul 28 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Dssolvr

Guests will meet at Dssolvr Asheville (63 N. Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801) and then depart with their treasure map on a walking team scavenger hunt where they will use their minds and feet to follow clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes to find and unlock the treasure chest for a grand prize!

The hunt involves walking a distance of up to 2.0 miles in total and will take place rain or shine, so long as the weather does not become dangerous. The hunt typically takes about 60 minutes to complete.

Children under 10 years old are welcome to participate for free with the purchase of an Adult ticket.

Tuesday, July 30, 2024
MEGA Business After Hours
Jul 30 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Elk's Lodge
Join us for the MEGA Business After Hours presented by AdventHealth Hendersonville, Beverly-Hanks, and Horizon Heating & Air! All Chamber members, their employees, and families are invited to this old-fashioned cookout and pool party! Show your spirit with your best red, white, and blue outfits in celebration of this summer’s Olympics. We’ll have a variety of exciting activities for both kids and adults, including our second annual Business Suit Cannonball Contest. Awards will be given! If you would like to participate in the Business Suit Cannonball Contest, please let us know when you register. There will be divisions for both kids and adults. This is a kid-friendly event, so bring the whole family! **Vegetarian and gluten-free options will be available.**
PROpel AVL Connect
Jul 30 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Bears Smokehouse BBQ

Join us for an evening of networking, great food and drinks at Bears Smokehouse BBQ!

 

PROpel AVL provides outstanding professional leadership development opportunities through educational seminars, service opportunities and networking for Asheville professionals between the ages of 21 and 40.

Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Volunteer with PROpel AVL and United Way
Jul 31 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s annual School Supply Drive is thrilled to give you the opportunity to help distribute backpacks to various local nonprofits for students who cannot afford school supplies. This year, PROpel AVL is teaming up with Highlands Circle, UWABC’s young professional group, to highlight how essential community service is for ensuring that everyone in Asheville and Buncombe County can thrive.

We have an important volunteer shift coming up on Wednesday, July 31st, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. During this time, we’ll be loading backpacks into vehicles, breaking down and cleaning the space, and returning items to UWABC’s offices.

By joining us, you’ll play a crucial role in providing over 2,000 backpacks to students in our county, giving thousands of children the supplies they need to succeed in school. Your participation is vital to making this initiative a success.

Every single contribution counts, and your efforts truly matter. Together, we can make a significant impact on our community. Your support will help ensure that all students have the tools they need for a bright future. Please come out and join us—your involvement can make all the difference!

To read more about school supply drive go here! If this shift does not work for you, but you would like to participate please email Ella Pullman at [email protected].

Thursday, August 1, 2024
Woman UP Workshop
Aug 1 @ 8:00 am – 10:00 am
AB Tech

WomanUP welcomes keynote speaker, author and executive coach Val Grub for a workshop on working across generations. On August 1st, we’ll explore strategies to engage with people of all ages in the workplace and embrace the wisdom of age while valuing the contributions of youth.

 

Friday, August 2, 2024
Light Up the Night 5K
Aug 2 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Carrier Park

The Light Up the Night 5K is a fundraising, glow-in-the-dark, night-time, walk or run and will be timed by Finish Well Timing. This will be Western Carolina Rescue Ministries’ 6th annual Light Up the Night 5k race to raise funds and spread awareness of the ministry’s community impact. This event will take place on Friday August 2, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in Asheville’s Carrier Park, and all proceeds from this event will directly benefit WCRM.

Last year, your support gave a second chance to 26 moms and 46 babies in our Abba’s House Recovery Program. The success of these moms would not be possible without your valuable contribution.

As we embark on another year of service and outreach, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. This year, we want to include you in playing an even greater role in our ministry. We will be pursuing funding for the need of life transformation across all our programs.

This event is one of the Ministry’s most significant opportunities to raise funds in support of our community and these funds will be directly used to break the cycles of homelessness and addiction in our region. For the past 43 years, WCRM has been serving the homeless community of Asheville providing rescue, recovery, and restoration to people in crisis. We care for our clients with dignity, providing help, hope, and opportunity for our ministry participants to reengage in society. Whether it’s a hot meal, a warm shelter, or recovery from addiction, our compassion shines on everyone we meet.

Saturday, August 3, 2024
CommuniTEA Amongst the Trees
Aug 3 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Did you know a lack of connection can increase the risk for premature death to levels comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day? Loneliness is an epidemic according to a recent report by the U.S. Surgeon General. However, we have a wondrous and simple solution: nature connection! If you’re in search of community and/or you really like tea and the great outdoors, join us for this immersive morning retreat focused on fostering kinship with like-minded people and the more-than-human world.

Your guide, Kelly Bruce, will lead you on a relational journey through the bountiful summer forest, weaving mindfulness, breathwork, forest bathing and nature therapy together for a restorative morning on some of the trails less traveled at the North Carolina Arboretum. We’ll celebrate the experience in community, enjoying a special wild-foraged tea ceremony and snacks. Bring an open mind and an open heart. All are welcome. Presented through Adult & Continuing Education Programs in collaboration with Asheville Wellness Tours.

 

Friday, August 9, 2024
AM Power Hour
Aug 9 @ 8:00 am
Hampton Inn
Rise and shine and make your morning the catalyst to AMP UP your business! Jumpstart your morning with a burst of productivity as you mingle with prospective customers. This monthly event is your gateway to discovering strong referral sources, finding new vendors, meeting the perfect client, or establishing connections that can open doors for future interactions!  Whether you’re an early bird, or can’t make it to our after-hours, AM Power Hour is your go-to for a dynamic and energizing start to the day!2024 AM Power Hours are Presented by We Sell WNC! August is hosted by Hampton Inn!
Tuesday, August 13, 2024
Free Hendersonville Rockstar Connect Networking Event (August, NC)
Aug 13 @ 6:00 pm
Trailside Brewing Co

Are you ready to rock the networking scene in Hendersonville? Join us for an unforgettable evening of connection and opportunity at the Rockstar Connect Networking Event on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, from 6 PM to 8 PM at Trailside Brewing Co.

Hosted by Jeff Patterson, this event is all about building meaningful relationships with people who get things done in Hendersonville. Our events are open to everyone to make meaningful connections, known for their friendly and engaging atmosphere, and we guarantee that you’ll feel welcome from the moment you arrive.

Don’t pass up the chance to network with the appropriate people, become part of the Hendersonville community, and create long-lasting connections that will further your career. Join our Facebook Group: Hendersonville Networking powered by Rockstar Connect

Visit our landing page: https://rockstarconnect.com/hendersonville-networking/

Rockstar Connect

Homepage

Saturday, August 17, 2024
Back To School Bash
Aug 17 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Craigfields Hair Studio & Spa

Happy National Parents Day from your friends at Craigfields Hair Studio & Spa!

With school right around the corner we want to invite everyone to our Back To School Bash – August 17th, 2024 from 10AM-6PM

Come out and Enjoy a FREE fun family event ! 🎈
⁃ Corn Hole 🕳️
⁃ Snow Cones 🍧
⁃ Face painting 🎨
⁃ Kids nail painting 💅

We will be partnering with Eblen Charities as we be offering donation based haircuts for the family to get ready for the new school year. All proceeds from the day will go to the Eblen Charities.

Eblen Charities will be handing out 🆓 haircut vouchers for all those who qualify!

Call the salon for more information or to reserve a spot.

Walk ins welcome!

We can’t wait to see you!

Saturday, August 24, 2024
Phoenix Festival
Aug 24 @ 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm
The Outpost

For its first big community event, Phoenix Fire Coffee is hosting Phoenix Festival – a fundraising event and small business expo showcasing local artists, food trucks, and live music. The event will be at The Outpost near Carrier Park on August 2liv4th. Food and vendors open from 4pm to 9pm. Music goes until 11pm. We hope to use this event to raise money for our grand opening while simultaneously uplifting small businesses and fostering a sense of community.
Admission is free, but a donation of $5 or more would be greatly appreciated.

Saturday, August 31, 2024
2024 Fairy Door Sponsor
Aug 31 all-day
Bullington Gardens

Last year, our fairy gardens attracted almost 9,000 visitors between June and August 2023. We see this as an opportunity to highlight Bullington’s circle of contributors through the sponsorship of a fairy door. The handcrafted doors will have the sponsor’s name, will be opened by guests to reveal a hidden message, and will be given to the sponsors when they are taken down after the summer.

Here are just a few statistics about the 2023 Fairy trail and sponsors from last year:

  • Visitors – Local visitors (from a 50-mile radius) numbered 2,647. Total visitors: over 8,700 from 18 countries, 41 different states, and D.C., 138 cities in N.C., 52 cities in S.C.

  • Appeared on WLOS and over 15 print publications.

  • Appeared in over a hundred social media posts (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.)

  • Acknowledgement of sponsors were printed on 1350 of the Woodland Gazettes that were given out to children as they visited.

  • Sponsors were highlighted in our Friends of Bullington newsletter.

The dates of the fairy garden will run from June 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024. Please consider being one of our ‘Sponsors with Heart’ by purchasing a fairy door. We need to hear from you no later than April 15, 2024, so we can customize your door and message in time for the grand opening of our Fairy Gardens kickoff.

Fairy Door Sponsor Information:

Thank you for supporting Bullington Gardens, and sharing our passion for providing WNC with magical public gardens aimed to connect to the natural world and provide science-based education.

Dates: June 1- August 31, 2024

Location: Bullington Gardens Fairy Trail, 95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville, NC 28792

Sponsor Benefits $350

  • Business or name listed on a medium (approx.) 12” fairy house doors. (You can help our artist to design if ordered early enough)

  • Recognition of sponsorship in Bullington Board newsletter.

  • Acknowledgment on the Bullington Gardens social media pages.

  • Sponsor logo and link on the Bullington Gardens website for 90 days

  • Donation is tax-deductible.

Invoices and tax-deductible receipts will be sent from Bullington Gardens, Inc. Please send payment and the form below by April 15, 2024. For any questions, please contact Annie Higgins at [email protected] or call (828) 698-6104

Sponsor a door here.

Saturday, September 7, 2024
AVL Clothing Swap
Sep 7 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
The Regeneration Station

The biggest clothing swap in Asheville is back!

Join AVL Clothing Swap at The Regeneration Station and help raise money for reproductive rights. New for this event – we’re partnering with AVL Fatties for an even better plus size selection!

How does the clothing swap work?

1. Gather clothing you no longer need that is in good, clean condition.
2. Purchase your ticket to the event. 100% of profits go to charity.
3. Drop off your clothing before the day of the event (September 7!) We accept adult clothing and shoes in good, clean condition. Please, no bras, underwear, kid’s clothing, or accessories
4. On the day of the event, show up to shop the swap!

Clothing swaps are a great way to get rid of items that you no longer need, but that might be just what someone else is looking for.

Saturday, September 14, 2024
WNC Run/Walk for Autism
Sep 14 @ 8:00 am
Bill Moore Community Park

Join us on Saturday, September 14!
The 19th annual WNC Run/Walk for Autism is an amazing and fun-filled community event that helps improve the lives of autistic children and adults by raising funds to support local autism programs.

You must register online by noon on Wednesday, September 11, to participate.

The WNC Run/Walk for Autism will be held at Bill Moore Community Park in Fletcher.

Event Schedule:

* 8:00 a.m. – Packet pick-up begins
* 9:00 a.m. – 5K competitive and non-competitive runs begin
* 9:15 a.m. – 1 mile Fun Run/Walk begins

Awards ceremony for 5K race and top fundraising teams to follow.

For more event details, including all deadlines, course map, etc., click here.

As many as 1 in 36 children may be diagnosed with autism in the United States. You can make a difference in the lives of people with autism, their families, and communities by supporting this event and asking for donations.

Bullington Gardens Fall Plant Sale
Sep 14 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Bullington Gardens

Bullington Gardens’ Fall Plant Sale is happening from September 12-14 from 9 am – 4:00 pm. Bullington has long been well known for growing unique and healthy plants. This year is no exception. The sale will feature an impressive selection of locally grown native plants, fall perennials, shrubs, trees, and cool-season annuals, all carefully chosen to thrive in our local climate. 100% of the proceeds from this event will go directly towards supporting the ongoing operation of Bullington Gardens, a beloved non-profit botanical garden that has been a cornerstone of the Hendersonville community for 35 years. With a focus on horticultural therapy and environmental education, Bullington Gardens plays a vital role in connecting people with nature and promoting well-being through the power of plants.

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West Asheville Garden Stroll
Sep 14 @ 10:30 am – 4:00 pm
Lucy S. Herring Elementary

The 15th West Asheville Garden Stroll is Saturday, September 14th from 11 AM to 4 PM, with a family-friendly kickoff program at 10:30. It features 15 diverse gardens in the Horney Heights neighborhood, on both sides of Sulphur Springs Road from Lucy Herring School westward. Stroll Guides with a map and garden descriptions will be available at the school from 11:00 until 3:30. Local organizations will be on hand in the morning with resources for gardeners and possibly some items for sale.

The Garden Stroll is FREE, and all are welcome to join in this community event, rain or shine. However, leave your four-footed friends at home — dogs are not allowed in the gardens.
While there is street parking throughout the neighborhood, we encourage you to park at the school or at Abernethy United Methodist Church (1418 Patton Ave) and walk or bike the 3 mile route. (Regardless of where you park, come by the school first to pick up a Stroll Guide.)

This year’s gardens showcase many alternatives to conventional lawns as well as all kinds of edibles, ornamentals, medicinal plants, permaculture designs, and a wide variety of native plants. Water features, eclectic art, trellises, and quirky garden sheds provide focal points. You’ll see new and mature gardens as well as works-in-progress, all offering the chance to chat with friendly and enthusiastic gardeners.

With the theme “If You Grow It, They Will Come,” we encourage stroll-goers to observe how these gardens provide safety, nourishment, & love for birds, bees, and so many others of nature’s families.