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, June 20, 2020
Guided Hikes: Grandfather Mountain
Jun 20 all-day
Grandfather Mountain

Interpretive Rangers are available to lead guided hikes, bird walks and wildflower walks for families and groups that visit Grandfather Mountain. To see the mountain in this whole new way, you can schedule an appointment by calling the interpretive ranger office at (828) 737-0833 or emailing [email protected].

Please note that walks and hikes are available for all ability levels, but hikes that take you into Grandfather Mountain’s backcountry require careful footwork, proper footwear and the ability to handle heights. All backcountry hikes require participants to traverse ladders and use cables to navigate steep sections of the trail.

Interpretive Rangers are available year-round (weather permitting) to lead guided hikes to:

MacRae Peak ($15 + park admission)
Attic Window ($25 + park admission)
Calloway Peak ($35 + park admission)

Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance, and a minimum of two participants per hike are required. For more information, please call (828) 737-0833.

Sunday, June 21, 2020
Burlesque Brunch
Jun 21 @ 12:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

Burlesque Brunch

Join us on the third Sunday of every month for Burlesque Brunch!
  • 18 +
  • SEATED SHOW
  • 11 AM DOORS/ 12 PM 

Burlesque Brunch is a monthly burlesque and belly dance show with a classic speakeasy feel. Join us every month and relax and enjoy our dancing dames and dandies in an up close and intimate setting. It’s a Sunday afternoon to delight the senses!

Thursday, June 25, 2020
City Dance
Jun 25 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Saturday, June 27, 2020
Guided Hikes: Grandfather Mountain
Jun 27 all-day
Grandfather Mountain

Interpretive Rangers are available to lead guided hikes, bird walks and wildflower walks for families and groups that visit Grandfather Mountain. To see the mountain in this whole new way, you can schedule an appointment by calling the interpretive ranger office at (828) 737-0833 or emailing [email protected].

Please note that walks and hikes are available for all ability levels, but hikes that take you into Grandfather Mountain’s backcountry require careful footwork, proper footwear and the ability to handle heights. All backcountry hikes require participants to traverse ladders and use cables to navigate steep sections of the trail.

Interpretive Rangers are available year-round (weather permitting) to lead guided hikes to:

MacRae Peak ($15 + park admission)
Attic Window ($25 + park admission)
Calloway Peak ($35 + park admission)

Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance, and a minimum of two participants per hike are required. For more information, please call (828) 737-0833.

Saturday, July 4, 2020
Guided Hikes: Grandfather Mountain
Jul 4 all-day
Grandfather Mountain

Interpretive Rangers are available to lead guided hikes, bird walks and wildflower walks for families and groups that visit Grandfather Mountain. To see the mountain in this whole new way, you can schedule an appointment by calling the interpretive ranger office at (828) 737-0833 or emailing [email protected].

Please note that walks and hikes are available for all ability levels, but hikes that take you into Grandfather Mountain’s backcountry require careful footwork, proper footwear and the ability to handle heights. All backcountry hikes require participants to traverse ladders and use cables to navigate steep sections of the trail.

Interpretive Rangers are available year-round (weather permitting) to lead guided hikes to:

MacRae Peak ($15 + park admission)
Attic Window ($25 + park admission)
Calloway Peak ($35 + park admission)

Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance, and a minimum of two participants per hike are required. For more information, please call (828) 737-0833.

Friday, July 10, 2020
Lincoln Center at Home presents Ballet Hispánico
Jul 10 all-day
Online

Hailed as a “masterpiece” by the Chicago Sun-Times, Ballet Hispánico presents choreographer Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s CARMEN.maquia – a Picasso-inspired, contemporary take on Bizet’s classic opera. Recorded at Lincoln Center, this riveting, imaginative and theatrical performance will be available online until Tuesday, July 14.

 

Saturday, July 11, 2020
Lincoln Center at Home presents Ballet Hispánico
Jul 11 all-day
Online

Hailed as a “masterpiece” by the Chicago Sun-Times, Ballet Hispánico presents choreographer Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s CARMEN.maquia – a Picasso-inspired, contemporary take on Bizet’s classic opera. Recorded at Lincoln Center, this riveting, imaginative and theatrical performance will be available online until Tuesday, July 14.

 

Parsons Dance: ‘Caught’ at Home
Jul 11 @ 7:00 pm
Online

Enjoy this select program featuring archival gems, glimpses of the dancers at home, and sneak peeks of the world premieres that were scheduled for The Joyce this spring.

Known for their remarkable athleticism and stunning ensemble work, Parsons Dance brings exuberance, joy and passion to any stage. Flawlessly fusing the gestures and movements that comprise modern dance with the discipline and precision of a classical dance company, the company is internationally renowned. Stunning works, like the iconic Caught, exemplify this company’s innovation and huge audience appeal.

This special preview is scheduled in conjunction with the planned appearance by Parsons Dance as part of An Appalachian Summer Festival’s 2021 season.

To learn more about Parsons Dance: https://www.parsonsdance.org/

Available exclusively via YouTube, appsummer.org

Sunday, July 12, 2020
Lincoln Center at Home presents Ballet Hispánico
Jul 12 all-day
Online

Hailed as a “masterpiece” by the Chicago Sun-Times, Ballet Hispánico presents choreographer Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s CARMEN.maquia – a Picasso-inspired, contemporary take on Bizet’s classic opera. Recorded at Lincoln Center, this riveting, imaginative and theatrical performance will be available online until Tuesday, July 14.

 

Monday, July 13, 2020
Lincoln Center at Home presents Ballet Hispánico
Jul 13 all-day
Online

Hailed as a “masterpiece” by the Chicago Sun-Times, Ballet Hispánico presents choreographer Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s CARMEN.maquia – a Picasso-inspired, contemporary take on Bizet’s classic opera. Recorded at Lincoln Center, this riveting, imaginative and theatrical performance will be available online until Tuesday, July 14.

 

Tuesday, July 14, 2020
Girl Power: Virtual Dance Camp for Girls
Jul 14 all-day
Online

Image may contain: 1 person, text

Welcome to Zahiya Online’s LIVE dance classes! We are so excited to have you and big hugs and high fives for taking time for you and your wellbeing.
Our classes are for everyone and every body. All are welcome and all are celebrated, you belong in class.
Once you register for class, we will email you the Zoom link, get yourself set up and meet us online!
Here ‘s a little bit more about how it works:
Lincoln Center at Home presents Ballet Hispánico
Jul 14 all-day
Online

Hailed as a “masterpiece” by the Chicago Sun-Times, Ballet Hispánico presents choreographer Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s CARMEN.maquia – a Picasso-inspired, contemporary take on Bizet’s classic opera. Recorded at Lincoln Center, this riveting, imaginative and theatrical performance will be available online until Tuesday, July 14.

 

Wednesday, July 15, 2020
Girl Power: Virtual Dance Camp for Girls
Jul 15 all-day
Online

Image may contain: 1 person, text

Welcome to Zahiya Online’s LIVE dance classes! We are so excited to have you and big hugs and high fives for taking time for you and your wellbeing.
Our classes are for everyone and every body. All are welcome and all are celebrated, you belong in class.
Once you register for class, we will email you the Zoom link, get yourself set up and meet us online!
Here ‘s a little bit more about how it works:
Thursday, July 16, 2020
Girl Power: Virtual Dance Camp for Girls
Jul 16 all-day
Online

Image may contain: 1 person, text

Welcome to Zahiya Online’s LIVE dance classes! We are so excited to have you and big hugs and high fives for taking time for you and your wellbeing.
Our classes are for everyone and every body. All are welcome and all are celebrated, you belong in class.
Once you register for class, we will email you the Zoom link, get yourself set up and meet us online!
Here ‘s a little bit more about how it works:
Friday, July 17, 2020
Girl Power: Virtual Dance Camp for Girls
Jul 17 all-day
Online

Image may contain: 1 person, text

Welcome to Zahiya Online’s LIVE dance classes! We are so excited to have you and big hugs and high fives for taking time for you and your wellbeing.
Our classes are for everyone and every body. All are welcome and all are celebrated, you belong in class.
Once you register for class, we will email you the Zoom link, get yourself set up and meet us online!
Here ‘s a little bit more about how it works:
Saturday, July 18, 2020
Girl Power: Virtual Dance Camp for Girls
Jul 18 all-day
Online

Image may contain: 1 person, text

Welcome to Zahiya Online’s LIVE dance classes! We are so excited to have you and big hugs and high fives for taking time for you and your wellbeing.
Our classes are for everyone and every body. All are welcome and all are celebrated, you belong in class.
Once you register for class, we will email you the Zoom link, get yourself set up and meet us online!
Here ‘s a little bit more about how it works:
Sunday, July 19, 2020
Girl Power: Virtual Dance Camp for Girls
Jul 19 all-day
Online

Image may contain: 1 person, text

Welcome to Zahiya Online’s LIVE dance classes! We are so excited to have you and big hugs and high fives for taking time for you and your wellbeing.
Our classes are for everyone and every body. All are welcome and all are celebrated, you belong in class.
Once you register for class, we will email you the Zoom link, get yourself set up and meet us online!
Here ‘s a little bit more about how it works:
Burlesque Brunch
Jul 19 @ 12:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

Burlesque Brunch

Join us on the third Sunday of every month for Burlesque Brunch!
  • 18 +
  • SEATED SHOW
  • 11 AM DOORS/ 12 PM 

Burlesque Brunch is a monthly burlesque and belly dance show with a classic speakeasy feel. Join us every month and relax and enjoy our dancing dames and dandies in an up close and intimate setting. It’s a Sunday afternoon to delight the senses!

Wednesday, July 22, 2020
Fringe Digital Summer Vol. 2
Jul 22 @ 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Online

It’s the Fringe Digital Summer Night, volume 2! Do you have your reservations yet? This show will happen on zoom and you NEED a link to find it. Get your tickets here (sliding scale $0 to $25)
https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=115442 

Join these Fringe favorites:

> Cooper Bates (spoken word/ storytelling, Los Angeles CA)
> Edwin Salas (puppetry/ dance, Asheville NC)
> Taproot CLT (dance, Charlotte, NC)
> Kathleen Leiner (Dance/ contemplative, Asheville NC)
> Cookie Tongue (music/ puppetry/ animation/ experimental, Brooklyn NY)
> Justin Evans (spoken word/ poetry/ experimental Asheville NC)
> Constance Humphries (Butoh, Asheville NC)

Hosted by Dylan Suter (Asheville NC)

Fringe Announcements, community connection!

Tickets are pay what you can, but you do need a ticket in order to receive the link to this Zoom based event.
Reserve your spot now: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=115442

Donate at http://www.ashevillefringe.org/donate

Thursday, July 23, 2020
City Dance
Jul 23 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Friday, July 24, 2020
Girl Power: Virtual Dance Camp for Girls
Jul 24 all-day
Online

Image may contain: 1 person, text

Welcome to Zahiya Online’s LIVE dance classes! We are so excited to have you and big hugs and high fives for taking time for you and your wellbeing.
Our classes are for everyone and every body. All are welcome and all are celebrated, you belong in class.
Once you register for class, we will email you the Zoom link, get yourself set up and meet us online!
Here ‘s a little bit more about how it works:
Staff Picks of the Week BMC: Tap-Dancing Noses At The Royal Opera House
Jul 24 all-day
Online

Tap-Dancing Noses At
The Royal Opera House

Don’t miss this scene from Shostakovich’s surreal and vibrant first opera, featuring tap-dancing noses.

Saturday, July 25, 2020
Girl Power: Virtual Dance Camp for Girls
Jul 25 all-day
Online

Image may contain: 1 person, text

Welcome to Zahiya Online’s LIVE dance classes! We are so excited to have you and big hugs and high fives for taking time for you and your wellbeing.
Our classes are for everyone and every body. All are welcome and all are celebrated, you belong in class.
Once you register for class, we will email you the Zoom link, get yourself set up and meet us online!
Here ‘s a little bit more about how it works:
Staff Picks of the Week BMC: Tap-Dancing Noses At The Royal Opera House
Jul 25 all-day
Online

Tap-Dancing Noses At
The Royal Opera House

Don’t miss this scene from Shostakovich’s surreal and vibrant first opera, featuring tap-dancing noses.

Sunday, July 26, 2020
Girl Power: Virtual Dance Camp for Girls
Jul 26 all-day
Online

Image may contain: 1 person, text

Welcome to Zahiya Online’s LIVE dance classes! We are so excited to have you and big hugs and high fives for taking time for you and your wellbeing.
Our classes are for everyone and every body. All are welcome and all are celebrated, you belong in class.
Once you register for class, we will email you the Zoom link, get yourself set up and meet us online!
Here ‘s a little bit more about how it works:
Staff Picks of the Week BMC: Tap-Dancing Noses At The Royal Opera House
Jul 26 all-day
Online

Tap-Dancing Noses At
The Royal Opera House

Don’t miss this scene from Shostakovich’s surreal and vibrant first opera, featuring tap-dancing noses.

Monday, July 27, 2020
Staff Picks of the Week BMC: Tap-Dancing Noses At The Royal Opera House
Jul 27 all-day
Online

Tap-Dancing Noses At
The Royal Opera House

Don’t miss this scene from Shostakovich’s surreal and vibrant first opera, featuring tap-dancing noses.

History Cafe Webinar: Solo Percussive Dance Traditions of Southern Appalachia
Jul 27 @ 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Online

Western North Carolina and east Tennessee have rich social and performative dance traditions. From small square dances held at local homes to the modern incarnation of Warren Wilson’s Old Farmers Ball, from groups of flat-foot dancers cutting a rug at a front porch string band jam to cloggers performing on stage at the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, WNC residents have long enjoyed dancing together. Local dancer and dance caller Jesse Edgerton will present a program of southern Appalachian solo percussive dancing along with musings on the history of social and performative dance in Western North Carolina.

This event will take place as a Zoom webinar in order to make this event accessible to all. Registrants will receive a Zoom link before the event begins. 

Jesse Edgerton was born in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, and raised in Asheville. He began dancing and calling square and contra dances while a student at Warren Wilson College. He has studied with, and stolen licks from, such masterful dancers as Rodney Sutton, Phil Jamison, and Thomas Maupin, among others.

About History Cafe
Ever wonder how Asheville came to get its drinking water from Black Mountain? What slavery looked like in western North Carolina (Yes, there were enslaved people here.)? How wagons, stagecoaches, and trains made it up the steep grade from Old Fort into Ridgecrest? Come to the Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center one monday a month at 10:30am for a discussion about local history. Come start off your morning getting to know our region a little better!

Designed for adults and modeled after the popular Science Cafes taking place across the nation, Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center’s monthly History Cafe offers lectures and workshops led by local experts and researchers on regional history topics. These hour-long meet-ups engage the many stories that have shaped our southern Appalachian community as a place — from geological changes to native histories, musical innovations, pioneer experiences, and labor struggles — and will end with informal discussion bringing our shared history into context with contemporary issues.

Street Dances features Appalachian Fire
Jul 27 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Henderson County Visitor Center Stage

The Street Dances celebrates its 102nd anniversary!  The Dance features Appalachian Fire playing mountain heritage bluegrass music, square dancing and clogging on Monday July 27, August 10, 24 & September 14. The evening starts at 6:30pm, when the caller, teaches audience members some basic square dancing moves so that everyone can join in on the fun led by the evening’s clogging group.

In addition to you dancing shoes, bring a chair to enjoy an evening filled with live music, dancing and entertainment from 7 – 9pm. The audience seating area opens after 5:30pm, and early admission is prohibited. Please leave your pets comfortably at home. Admission is free. No alcoholic beverages, backpacks or coolers allowed.

In case of inclement weather, the concert will be postponed until 8pm. If the weather does not improve by 8pm the performance will be cancelled.

Tuesday, July 28, 2020
OFB Spread the Joy Fundraiser
Jul 28 all-day
Online

Old Farmer's Ball

What:  Local musicians, singers, callers, and technicians have given us joy as they shared their love of music and dance with us.  We now ask our community to return that joy as they struggle financially during this difficult time by donating to our “Spread the Joy” fundraiser.

Who:  All donations will be paid directly and equally to local talent.  Your contributions will support local callers, musicians, and technicians who participated, a minimum of 4 times, either in the past year (March 2019 – March 2020) or were scheduled in the near future (March – June 2020) for OFB events and who indicated a financial need to the OFB Board.

When:  The OFB will distribute donations on a regular basis while dances continue to be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so please give early and often. Consider donating the price you would have paid for admission to the dances for you, maybe several friends, and remembering that the dances were cancelled back in early March.

How:  Click the link below to donate via Paypal and please add the note: “Spread the Joy fundraiser”. Donate conveniently via your credit card, debit card or your Paypal account.

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=PYS3WHNV76CWA&source=url