The final block party is held in conjunction with the Brevard Police Department and Transylvania County Sheriff’s Department’s National Night Out Celebration.

Attendees can expect a lineup of live music, delicious local food and children’s activities, creating a fun community gathering for all. The June events feature LEAF Global Arts and the July and August events feature our beloved Old Time Street Dances. Block parties will be held weekly from 6-8pm on East Main Street. Many downtown retail businesses and restaurants will also be open for the block party.

HOB and LEAF Global Arts invites everyone to experience a world without borders! From dance, to drumming to arts & crafts, LEAF’s performing artists will bring a new lineup of cultural art experiences and live music to the June block parties. Each week will feature a different band and the LEAF Easel Rider, a mobile arts & crafts lab.

LEAF performances will feature an eclectic mix of music that is different each week, ranging from blues and rock toNew Orleans style jazz.

LEAF resident artist Melissa McKinney kicks off the series on June 14^th. “We are so excited to bring the energy of LEAF Global to downtown Brevard,” shares McKinney, “connecting community is part of our mission and we believe downtown Brevard holds the same values. Music is the best way to bring people together.”

Old Time Street Dances, a long-time community favorite, returns to the Heart of Brevard at our July 5^th block party. The dances offer free, family-friendly fun that celebrates our Appalachian heritage and is sure to move your feet.

Old Time Street Dances in downtown Brevard are an 80-year tradition. This summer, Whitewater Bluegrass Co. returns to the stage as the host band to lead the crowds in a collection of square dance and contra-style dancing. Evenings will include classic songs, a chance for clogging and traditional Appalachian-called dance. Old Time Street Dances are geared toward participation at every age and skill level.

The Tuesday Night Block Parties are free and open to the public. For more information about LEAF, Old Time Street Dances and other upcoming events, follow Heart of Brevard on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to their newsletter here.

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Heart of Brevard 501(c)(3) is a North Carolina Main Street Community, designated by the NC Department of Commerce and Main Street & Rural Planning Center.  Heart of Brevard is a recognized leading program among the national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. All Main Street America™ programs meet a set of National Accreditation Standards of Performance as outlined by the National Main Street Center.

Gentle, relaxing yoga stretches outside in the fresh air. Connect with the beauty of nature while releasing tension and building flexibility, balance, and inner calm. This in-person class takes place at the Arboretum in partial shade and is beginner-friendly. Participants wear loose, comfortable clothing, adhere to current safety guidelines, and bring their own mat.

ONSITE | Six Sessions: Wednesdays, May 18 – June 22, 9:15 – 10:15 a.m.

Individual Wednesday Sessions Open for registration 

Start mentally preparing for the ceremonial start to the summer and your first dip in the pool! Buncombe County Recreation Services opens its five outdoor swimming pools on Saturday, May 28.

Pools are open Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday from 1-6 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, pools may close for a short period of time or the entire day. Follow individual pools on Facebook for the latest information on closings.

Cost to swim is $3.00 per day. Visitors are welcome to bring their own chairs and lounging towels.

For many local families, our pool openings signal the beginning of summer and more relaxing days. They’re an affordable, fun, and healthy way to beat the heat. Thanks to their locations, they’re also surrounded by stunning views of our mountains.

Pools are located across the county, ensuring easy access for all kids and families. The facilities are managed through an agreement with Swim Club Management Group of Asheville which oversees maintenance, hires staff, and handles daily operations. Community members can sign up for swim lessons and book private parties on the management group’s website, buncombepool.com.

Sun safety information is available at each location, but pool visitors are reminded to apply water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before putting on a bathing suit and reapply every two hours or after swimming. Other tips to avoid the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays include wearing high-UPF swim shirts, wide brim hats, and wraparound UV-blocking sunglasses. More sun safety tips are available from the American Academy of Dermatology.

Pool Locations

Cane Creek Pool
590 Lower Brush Creek Road
Fletcher, NC 28732
Like on Facebook

Erwin Pool
58 Lees Creek Road
Asheville, NC 28806
Like on Facebook

Hominy Valley Pool
25 Twin Lakes Road
Candler, NC 28715
Like on Facebook

North Buncombe Pool
892 Clarks Chapel Road
Weaverville, NC 28787
Like on Facebook

Owen Pool
117 Stone Drive
Swannanoa, NC 28778
Like on Facebook

Did you know our staff had a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn what kind of wildlife inhabits the Park and their important roles in the ecosystem. Some of our best teachers have feathers, fur, shells or scales!

You can also attend one of our weekly garden workday events:
Pearson Garden and Nursery Garden workdays Wednesdays from 3-5pm. Located at 408 Pearson Dr. in Montford. Please click this link to sign up. Contact [email protected] for more information. 

Hall Fletcher Elementary School FEAST Garden Wednesdays 2:45-4:00pm, 60 Ridgelawn Rd. Please click this link to sign up. Contact [email protected] for more information. 

Lucy Herring Elementary School Peace Garden (formerly Vance Elementary School) in West Asheville.  Workdays Tuesdays 2:45-3:45. The garden will again be closed to the public from 8 AM- 2:30 pm so that classes can use the garden for outdoor learning. Please contact  [email protected] for questions and to RSVP

**We give away free produce donated by Mother Earth Food every week at our Sharing Table Mondays after 3 pm

On the coattails of Older Americans Month in May, comes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), occurring annually on June 15th. The purpose of this international day of recognition is to provide communities the chance to promote a better understanding of the abuse and neglect of older adults by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic, and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect. On June 15th, Buncombe County Health and Human Services (BCHHS) and local community partners will host a WEAAD event at Carrier Park featuring opportunities for our community to learn about older adult services available in Buncombe County and to connect with local service providers. Events like this are essential to help educate our community as our population of residents over age 60 continues to grow.

Currently, 75,000 residents in Buncombe County are 60 years old or older; making up nearly 30% of our overall population. The older adult population in Buncombe County is one of the fastest-growing in the state and is projected to grow long into the future. As the number of older adults in our community rises, it is essential that we have an infrastructure in place to meet their unique needs. Jennifer Teague, Program Manager of Adult and Aging Services says “we are fortunate to be able to learn from older adults in our community, to hear from them about their needs, and to be able to plan for our current population as well as develop innovative services to support them in the future.” While responding to allegations of elder abuse and neglect is essential to the well-being of our older adult residents, it is not the only service our community has to offer. Below is a list of community partners, each offering essential services to older adults in Buncombe County. Click the links to learn more.

Land of Sky Regional Council

Land of Sky Regional Council is a multi-county, local government, planning, and development organization. We reach county and municipal borders providing technical assistance to local governments and administering projects and programs which benefit our region’s citizens. Our mission is to provide creative regional solutions to relevant and emerging issues in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, and Transylvania counties while providing a standard of excellence in the delivery of federal, state, and regional services for our member communities.

Council on Aging of Buncombe County

At the Council on Aging of Buncombe County, you will find referrals and help. Whether you are learning the Medicare system, looking for services to help you stay healthy and independent at home, or need support in taking care of others, the Council on Aging of Buncombe County can help you to make the right connections.

OLLI at UNC Asheville

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNC Asheville is an award-winning, internationally-acclaimed learning community dedicated to promoting lifelong learning, leadership, community service, and research. Their goal is to enable members to thrive in life’s second half.

Mountain Mobility

Mountain Mobility, Buncombe County’s Community Transportation System, was established to increase the level of transportation services available to Buncombe County citizens. Mountain Mobility works with about 30 human service agencies and organizations in Asheville and Buncombe County to coordinate transportation efforts for those residents in need of services.

For a comprehensive list of Aging Service Providers please review the Aging Services Directory.

Buncombe County is committed to increasing the scope and range of services and resources available to older adults.  Teague says “as we look toward the future, we are excited about the Active Aging Center project and the vision to create a centralized building for community members to seek services for older adults and their families.”  To learn more about the Active Aging Center concept please visit our website.  Innovative strategies in programs and service delivery will make our community a hub for inclusivity, a place where all residents, regardless of age, have the ability to be safe, well, and engaged.

Join Buncombe County in showing support for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by attending our upcoming event on June 15th at Carrier Park between 5-7 PM. We will be joined by many of our adult service providers who are excited to connect with you and your loved ones, to hear your stories, share about their agencies, and support older adult services in Buncombe County. See you there!

2022 Season will offer Rootabaga Express! on Thursday and Saturday mornings at 10:15 am. Celebrate 100 years of Rootabaga this summer! Published in 1922, the “Rootabaga Stories” have entertained readers and audiences of all ages for 100 years. Use the links at the bottom to read a story or watch part of a play. The Sandburg Summer Stage is a series of free public performances. These 30-minute programs feature the cast and directors from The Vagabond School of the Drama, an apprentice program of the Flat Rock Playhouse. Performances are held rain or shine, at the park amphitheatre near the Front Lake. Rootabaga Express! Carl Sandburg created his own version of American fairy tales when he published Rootabaga Stories (1922) and Rootabaga Pigeons (1923). He replaced the European fairy tale cast of princes, princesses, castles and kingdoms with icons American children would recognize — taxi-drivers, movie actors, skyscrapers, prairies and automobiles. Rootabaga Express! brings the stories of the Five Rusty Rats, Bimbo the Snip and more to life.You’ll meet new characters and journey farther into the Village of Liver and Onions and Sandburg’s imagination than ever before.The 30-minute shows are appropriate for all ages and held rain or shine. These shows are supported by the Flat Rock Playhouse and the Park Store, operated by America’s National Parks. Apprentice actors from the Flat Rock Playhouse have performed adaptations of Sandburg’s works for park visitors since 1974. Using Sandburg’s own words from his collections of children’s stories, poetry, collected music, biography of Abraham Lincoln and his own autobiography, the performances provide visitors with a sense of the scope of his work and imagination. Sandburg was an expert storyteller, and easily wove important messages of fairness, empathy and social justice into his writings. Whatever play you are able to attend you will walk away with a smile on your face and a better understanding of the legacy of Carl Sandburg.

No shows June 30 and July 2.

Start mentally preparing for the ceremonial start to the summer and your first dip in the pool! Buncombe County Recreation Services opens its five outdoor swimming pools on Saturday, May 28.

Pools are open Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday from 1-6 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, pools may close for a short period of time or the entire day. Follow individual pools on Facebook for the latest information on closings.

Cost to swim is $3.00 per day. Visitors are welcome to bring their own chairs and lounging towels.

For many local families, our pool openings signal the beginning of summer and more relaxing days. They’re an affordable, fun, and healthy way to beat the heat. Thanks to their locations, they’re also surrounded by stunning views of our mountains.

Pools are located across the county, ensuring easy access for all kids and families. The facilities are managed through an agreement with Swim Club Management Group of Asheville which oversees maintenance, hires staff, and handles daily operations. Community members can sign up for swim lessons and book private parties on the management group’s website, buncombepool.com.

Sun safety information is available at each location, but pool visitors are reminded to apply water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before putting on a bathing suit and reapply every two hours or after swimming. Other tips to avoid the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays include wearing high-UPF swim shirts, wide brim hats, and wraparound UV-blocking sunglasses. More sun safety tips are available from the American Academy of Dermatology.

Pool Locations

Cane Creek Pool
590 Lower Brush Creek Road
Fletcher, NC 28732
Like on Facebook

Erwin Pool
58 Lees Creek Road
Asheville, NC 28806
Like on Facebook

Hominy Valley Pool
25 Twin Lakes Road
Candler, NC 28715
Like on Facebook

North Buncombe Pool
892 Clarks Chapel Road
Weaverville, NC 28787
Like on Facebook

Owen Pool
117 Stone Drive
Swannanoa, NC 28778
Like on Facebook

The Neverwhere Trio is a collaboration of original music with Carrie Morrison, Andrew Thelston, and JamieLeigh Bennett. Combining heartfelt harmonic vocals, piano, cello, and acoustic guitar, Neverwhere is a unique class act with symphonic leanings and solid, inventive songwriting.

Carrie Morrison’s music will break your heart – in the best way. Melodic and memorable, her songs make connections. The singer/songwriter/pianist, a native of Louisville, Ky., has been playing piano since age seven. She moved to WNC in 2004, and has been a popular act in the area for more than 15 years. Morrison is known for melodically strong songs with personal, pithy, lyrics, ranging from the deeply emotional to the slightly silly. Her EP “Carolina Blonde” was released in 2013 and produced by the late Terry Wetton. Album “Miles and Miles” was produced by Chris Rosser, of award-winning ensemble Free Planet Radio, released in 2017. Her latest project, EP “The Neverwhere Sisters,” produced by Andrew Thelston and Daniel Nisbet, featuring cellist JamieLeighBennett, was released summer 2021. Morrison has had airplay on WTZQ and WNCW, and enjoys collaborations with several local artists onstage and in studio. Morrison is a teacher of Exceptional Children at Brevard High School. She is married to Mike, the love of her life, her champion, and best roadie.

Andrew Thelston is known for his unique blend of guitar-heavy rock, big grooves, soaring vocals, and passionate live performances. For the past two years, his power trio has been mesmerizing crowds throughout the Southeast with his brand of high energy rock-n-roll. In 2019, Andrew’s music was featured on the hit Netflix show “Lucifer.” In addition to songwriter and performer, Andrew is a producer for Ginger Bird Studios. His songs and videos are streaming worldwide.

Jamie Leigh Bennett is a cellist and flutist living in Hendersonville, NC. A native of NJ, Jamie Leigh has also lived in CT, WV, GA, UT, NV, and moved to WNC in July of 2014. She received her Bachelor’s in Music Therapy from the University of Georgia and her Master’s in Flute Performance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Upon moving to WNC, Jamie Leigh began performing with Hope Griffin and can be heard on cello and flute on Griffin’s albums, “Where the Soil and the Stars Meet” and “And the Lights Will Shine.” She has also recorded with other artists in the area, including Andrew Thelston and Debbie Jackson.

Jamie Leigh performs with Carrie Morrison in the duo The Neverwhere Sisters. The unique combination of piano, cello, flute, and vocals really captures an audience. Jamie Leigh enjoys traveling locally and around the country in pursuit of her music career. She also teaches flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone and cello at the WNC Music Academy and out of a private studio at her house. She will be starting a MusicTogether program for children ages 8 weeks-5 years at the Academy in June 2021 and will be heading up a new instrument rental program through NEMC. Jamie Leigh lives in Hendersonville with her husband Rob, sons Kyllian and Ronen, two dogs and two cats.

The Neverwhere Trio is a collaboration of original music with Carrie Morrison, Andrew Thelston, and JamieLeigh Bennett. Combining heartfelt harmonic vocals, piano, cello, and acoustic guitar, Neverwhere is a unique class act with symphonic leanings and solid, inventive songwriting.

Carrie Morrison’s music will break your heart – in the best way. Melodic and memorable, her songs make connections. The singer/songwriter/pianist, a native of Louisville, Ky., has been playing piano since age seven. She moved to WNC in 2004, and has been a popular act in the area for more than 15 years. Morrison is known for melodically strong songs with personal, pithy, lyrics, ranging from the deeply emotional to the slightly silly. Her EP “Carolina Blonde” was released in 2013 and produced by the late Terry Wetton. Album “Miles and Miles” was produced by Chris Rosser, of award-winning ensemble Free Planet Radio, released in 2017. Her latest project, EP “The Neverwhere Sisters,” produced by Andrew Thelston and Daniel Nisbet, featuring cellist JamieLeighBennett, was released summer 2021. Morrison has had airplay on WTZQ and WNCW, and enjoys collaborations with several local artists onstage and in studio. Morrison is a teacher of Exceptional Children at Brevard High School. She is married to Mike, the love of her life, her champion, and best roadie.

Andrew Thelston is known for his unique blend of guitar-heavy rock, big grooves, soaring vocals, and passionate live performances. For the past two years, his power trio has been mesmerizing crowds throughout the Southeast with his brand of high energy rock-n-roll. In 2019, Andrew’s music was featured on the hit Netflix show “Lucifer.” In addition to songwriter and performer, Andrew is a producer for Ginger Bird Studios. His songs and videos are streaming worldwide.

Jamie Leigh Bennett is a cellist and flutist living in Hendersonville, NC. A native of NJ, Jamie Leigh has also lived in CT, WV, GA, UT, NV, and moved to WNC in July of 2014. She received her Bachelor’s in Music Therapy from the University of Georgia and her Master’s in Flute Performance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Upon moving to WNC, Jamie Leigh began performing with Hope Griffin and can be heard on cello and flute on Griffin’s albums, “Where the Soil and the Stars Meet” and “And the Lights Will Shine.” She has also recorded with other artists in the area, including Andrew Thelston and Debbie Jackson.

Jamie Leigh performs with Carrie Morrison in the duo The Neverwhere Sisters. The unique combination of piano, cello, flute, and vocals really captures an audience. Jamie Leigh enjoys traveling locally and around the country in pursuit of her music career. She also teaches flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone and cello at the WNC Music Academy and out of a private studio at her house. She will be starting a MusicTogether program for children ages 8 weeks-5 years at the Academy in June 2021 and will be heading up a new instrument rental program through NEMC. Jamie Leigh lives in Hendersonville with her husband Rob, sons Kyllian and Ronen, two dogs and two cats.

Last June 16th we had our very first AVL Digital Nomad meeting and we had no idea what would happen. The journey over the past year has been delightful. We have a fantastic diversity of interesting people and professions. Seeing how quickly we’ve grown shows how many people work remotely and look forward to social interaction. To our nomads, Asheville is about LIFE/work balance, where living comes first!

It’s time we celebrate our birthday back at our initial social location, Wedge Brewing/Foundy St. To mark the milestone, we’re adding some extra spice to the event, with special cheesy awards and giveaways! Join us to win a free pass to one of the local coworking spots (thanks to Hatchworks, Mojo, Focal Point, and Haw Creek Commons!), and who knows, you may even come home with a Very Special Award. ;)

We’ll pull some picnic tables together on the backside of Wedge Brewing and stick our signs on a table. As always, we’ll have name tags, to help ease introductions. We’re looking forward to a fun event, meeting more new friends, and enjoying some beverages and conversation. See you there!

Beginning in May and running through September, these free outdoor shows will ramp up downtown fun on the third Thursday of each month, complete with craft beverages, food trucks and kids’ activities. Each concert will take place at the south end of Main Street, closing off the blocks between Allen and Caswell streets. 

As the premier live music event of Hendersonville, Rhythm & Brews brings in a variety of established acts as well as up-and-coming artists from around the nation. Whether you love soul, rock, bluegrass or the funky stuff, Rhythm & Brews will put a smile on your face and broaden your musical horizons. 

2022 Rhythm & Brews Concert Series Lineup: 

June 16: Erin & The Wildfire [[indie-pop soul]] with Hustle Souls [[soul/rock]] 

July 21: Melt [[soulful indie/jam]] with Pink Beds [[danceable indie-pop]] 

August 18: Alexa Rose [[americana/folk]] with Aaron Burdett [[singer-songwriter]] 

September 15: The Wooks [[upbeat bluegrass]] with The Greybirds [[classic-style rock]] 

Opening acts will kick off each evening at 5:30 p.m. followed by the headliner performance from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. 

For the youngest in the family, the Hands On! Kid Zone will provide kid-friendly activities. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy downtown Hendersonville’s first fully integrated beer and wine garden featuring locally crafted drinks from Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Guidon Brewing Co., Oklawaha Brewing Co., Dry Falls Brewery, Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, Flat Rock Cider Company and Bold Rock Hard Cider.  

All net proceeds from adult beverage sales will benefit the Friends of Downtown Hendersonville 501c3 nonprofit, whose mission is to identify, preserve and enhance the key factors that contribute to the authentic small town urban character of historic downtown Hendersonville. In the past year, the Friends of Downtown Hendersonville has supported downtown businesses with over $35,000 in direct business support through the façade and pivot grant programs. 

New in 2021, R&B Super Fan Tent provides an enhanced experience with a shaded viewing area including beer, wine and light refreshments from Moe’s BBQ. Individuals can become R&B Super Fans by purchasing a season package sponsorship for $200. The package includes two sponsor tent tickets to each show and two R&B season t-shirts. Becoming a R&B Super Fan sponsor support will not only help sustain R&B, but other Downtown Program events including Hendersonville Farmers Market, the Bearfootin’ Art Walk, and more. Visit the event website for more information on how to become a Super Fan. The Super Fan Tent is supported by B Squared Realty. 

Looking for a fun volunteer opportunity? Lending your time at Rhythm & Brews is a great way to meet new people and get involved in a community event. Fill out the Volunteer Interest Form to get started. 

Rhythm & Brews Concert Series was started in 2013 by Friends of Downtown Hendersonville, a 501c3 nonprofit operated by the Downtown Division of the City of Hendersonville Community Development Department. For more information, visit downtownhendersonville.org.