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.

Friday, August 2, 2024
Drum Circle
Aug 2 @ 5:00 pm – 9:45 pm
Pritchard Park

The beats of the Friday Night Drum Circle have been rocking Pritchard Park for decades and the circle has become so popular that it is featured in magazines and TV commercials.

Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series: Drum Circle
Aug 2 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Pritchard Park

The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

Drum Circle

The Asheville Downtown Association is proud to facilitate the return of Asheville’s iconic Drum Circle. Feel the rhythm and join the beat as the community comes together for an evening of drumming, dancing, and camaraderie.

97th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival
Aug 2 @ 7:00 pm
Kittredge Theatre

We are excited to announce that the 97th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival will be held August 1, 2, and 3, 2024 in the lovely Kittredge Theatre at Warren Wilson College due to the upcoming renovation of UNCA Lipinsky Auditorium.

Much appreciation to Ingles for their support of the very successful 96th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival

97th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival

Kittredge Theatre
Warren Wilson College
701 Warren Wilson Road
Swannanoa, N.C. 28778

August 1, 2, 3, 2024
Shows begin at 7 PM

Advance tickets: eventbrite.com after December 1, 2023

Prices to be as follows:

Adult: $20.00/advance, $25.00/at door;  Students: $5.00/Advance, $10.00/at door; Children under 12: $5.00; Groups of 10 or more: $15.00 each/Advance, $20.00 each/at door; 3-night package $55.00/advance, $60.00 at door.

DAVE MASON’S TRAFFIC JAM
Aug 2 @ 7:00 pm
Peace Concert Hall

With special guest Jefferson Starship

The English rock band Traffic, from the beginning in 1967, was popular in it’s native England, and, eventually, international success was established. Though the band had a short and tumultuous story, Traffic is considered by many as groundbreaking, trailblazing, and influential to rock ‘n roll history.

What makes the music of Traffic so captivating and alluring is because the band was innovative and authentic. Inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, Traffic is described as “beholden to no one but the music and their muse. Traffic broke all the rules”.

Dave Mason – one of the founders of Traffic and who went on to enjoy a successful solo career – continues to play select Traffic songs in his concerts. Mason is still moved by the music and joy of playing these revolutionary songs. They sound as fresh as ever and come to life every time. Mason brilliantly intermixes Traffic songs with hits and deep cuts from his solo career, making this live concert unlike any; a setlist that blends music and history with authenticity and talent.

Whether you’ve lived your life with this music as the soundtrack or are a modern concert enthusiast, “Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam” is bound to leave you much more fulfilled, delighted, and buoyant – and that much closer to the brilliance of the music of Dave Mason.

To see this extraordinary guitar player, a soulful singer LIVE guarantees an evening of music as astonishing as the legend Dave Mason himself. “Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam” is a must-see concert that includes fan favorites and deep cuts from Traffic, Dave Mason, and other surprise songs that share the story and important milestones in an undeniably powerful era of rock n’ roll history. “Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam” brings this all to life with multimedia visuals and dynamic set lists, along with first-hand stories and memories that can only be shared authentically by a man who has lived it.

Mountain Folk Harpers
Aug 2 @ 7:00 pm
First Baptist Church, Weaverville

                                                                          Free community concert                                

Cabaret
Aug 2 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Cabaret

Book by Joe Masteroff

Based on the play by John Van Druten

and Stories by Christopher Isherwood

Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb

Willkommen to the Kit Kat Klub! A Berlin Nightclub at the end of the 1920s. Hitler’s totalitarian regime and the Nazi Party are on the rise. Be transported back in time and welcome for the first time at Flat Rock Playhouse, Kander and Ebb’s Broadway sensation, Cabaret! Dark and sensual, it will break your heart and lift your spirits more wildly than anything else you’ll see this season.  “Cabaret is one of the great Broadway musicals and musical scores of all time–an exhilarating, harrowing masterpiece.” –Time Out New York

*Adult language and content. Parental discretion is advised.

Legally Blonde the Musical
Aug 2 @ 7:30 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

America’s favorite blonde, Elle Woods, is ready to prove who’s in charge in this fabulously fun, award-winning musical based on the adored movie. In the ultimate tribute to girl power, Legally Blonde follows Elle’s transformation from the UCLA sorority house to the Harvard halls of justice as she tackles stereotypes and scandal to pursue her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with pink, memorable songs, and dynamic dances – this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal!

Saturday, August 3, 2024
Yala Cultural Tour
Aug 3 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts

Visit LEAF Global Arts every Saturday for an in-house cultural exchange with Adama Dembele. Experience the Ivory Coast with our Culture Keeper from the House of Djembe.

Yala Cultural Tour + Drum Workshop
Aug 3 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts
Visit LEAF Global Arts every Saturday for an in-house cultural exchange with Adama Dembele. Experience the Ivory Coast with our Culture Keeper from the House of Djembe.
Stay for an all-ages Drum Workshop, no experience necessary.
Cabaret
Aug 3 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Cabaret

Book by Joe Masteroff

Based on the play by John Van Druten

and Stories by Christopher Isherwood

Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb

Willkommen to the Kit Kat Klub! A Berlin Nightclub at the end of the 1920s. Hitler’s totalitarian regime and the Nazi Party are on the rise. Be transported back in time and welcome for the first time at Flat Rock Playhouse, Kander and Ebb’s Broadway sensation, Cabaret! Dark and sensual, it will break your heart and lift your spirits more wildly than anything else you’ll see this season.  “Cabaret is one of the great Broadway musicals and musical scores of all time–an exhilarating, harrowing masterpiece.” –Time Out New York

*Adult language and content. Parental discretion is advised.

97th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival
Aug 3 @ 7:00 pm
Kittredge Theatre

We are excited to announce that the 97th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival will be held August 1, 2, and 3, 2024 in the lovely Kittredge Theatre at Warren Wilson College due to the upcoming renovation of UNCA Lipinsky Auditorium.

Much appreciation to Ingles for their support of the very successful 96th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival

97th Mountain Dance and Folk Festival

Kittredge Theatre
Warren Wilson College
701 Warren Wilson Road
Swannanoa, N.C. 28778

August 1, 2, 3, 2024
Shows begin at 7 PM

Advance tickets: eventbrite.com after December 1, 2023

Prices to be as follows:

Adult: $20.00/advance, $25.00/at door;  Students: $5.00/Advance, $10.00/at door; Children under 12: $5.00; Groups of 10 or more: $15.00 each/Advance, $20.00 each/at door; 3-night package $55.00/advance, $60.00 at door.

Legally Blonde the Musical
Aug 3 @ 7:30 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

America’s favorite blonde, Elle Woods, is ready to prove who’s in charge in this fabulously fun, award-winning musical based on the adored movie. In the ultimate tribute to girl power, Legally Blonde follows Elle’s transformation from the UCLA sorority house to the Harvard halls of justice as she tackles stereotypes and scandal to pursue her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with pink, memorable songs, and dynamic dances – this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal!

Sunday, August 4, 2024
AVLFest 2024
Aug 4 all-day
Various Locations Asheville NC

AVLFEST

WE’RE BACK!!  Spotlighting Asheville’s diverse music and arts scene, AVLFest will once again fill area concert halls, clubs, and outdoor venues alike with an exceptional lineup of local, regional, and national talent featuring a multitude of artists and performers! Performance showcases are set to take place Thursday August 1 through Sunday August 4 with wristbands granting passholders entry to 20+ Asheville stages, discounts at numerous local retailers and restaurants, as well as presale access and discounts to various events surrounding AVLFest weekend.  Many more details will be released shortly.

Once purchased, your festival pass will be exchanged for a festival wristband upon arrival. Proof of purchase and corresponding identification will be required at check-in. 

Jack’s Bluegrass Brunch
Aug 4 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Jack of the Wood

Jack’s Bluegrass Brunch kicks off every Sunday at 12 noon — with lively bluegrass tunes courtesy of The Jack of the Wood Bluegrass Brunch Boys from 1-3pm. Sip a Bloody Mary or Mimosa or a warm Irish coffee. Tasty brunch specials alongside our regular menu and 18 taps of rotating craft brews! Sláinte, y’all!

Live Music Saturdays
Aug 4 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Grove Arcade
Enjoy live music from local singer-songwriters in the Atrium of the Grove Arcade each Saturday from 12-3pm!
Stop by to kick your weekend off with shopping from local merchants and tunes from local musicians.
Kingfisher Folk Fest (Music Festival)
Aug 4 @ 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm
The Oaks at Daniel Ridge

Join us for a day of Music (Folk & Bluegrass), Storytellers, Dancing, Kids Activities, Food & Beverages!

Headlining is The Hillbilly Thomists, whose album hit #3 on Billboard’s bluegrass chart, as well as being in the top 20 of all albums on Amazon. Joining them will be The Resonant Rogues & Stranger and Pilgram.

Check out the registration page for samples of the bands, as well as ticketing options.

Come on out & enjoy yourself on a summer Sunday afternoon & evening! Bring the family!

MUSIC AT THE VINEYARD – STEVE WEAMS + THE CARIBBEAN COWBOYS
Aug 4 @ 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room & Winery

Join us Sunday, August 4 from 2-5 pm at Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room and Winery for live music at the vineyard from Steve Weams & The Caribbean Cowboys BandSteve Weams and The Caribbean Cowboys Band have been entertaining audiences for over 30 years as one of the country’s Top 20 Jimmy Buffett tribute bands. The band plays primarily in Western North Carolina. However, they have traveled from Key West to New York City and everywhere in between to perform.

While The Caribbean Cowboys play a wide variety of music, Steve and the band provide songs of the island lifestyle. They’ll cover artists such as Jimmy Buffett, Zach Brown, Kenny Chesney, and Scott Kirby. Expect the best of Classic and Southern Rock, Rhythm and blues, Reggae, Beach Tunes, and Country. You may even hear a few classics from Frank Sinatra and Elvis, along with some Caribbean Cowboys Band originalsSteve and the Band have performed from NYC to the British Virgin Islands and will be at the Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room and Winery on Sunday, August 4 from 2-5 PM. Come for some island vibes, great food, award-winning wine, and fun times! We can’t wait to see you here!

Legally Blonde the Musical
Aug 4 @ 3:00 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

America’s favorite blonde, Elle Woods, is ready to prove who’s in charge in this fabulously fun, award-winning musical based on the adored movie. In the ultimate tribute to girl power, Legally Blonde follows Elle’s transformation from the UCLA sorority house to the Harvard halls of justice as she tackles stereotypes and scandal to pursue her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with pink, memorable songs, and dynamic dances – this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal!

TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC SESSION
Aug 4 @ 3:30 pm
Jack of the Wood

Jack’s long-running Traditional Irish Music Session is the perfect way to enjoy the Celtic-influenced sounds of talented pluckers from all over WNC & further afield! Stop in to enjoy a pint or afternoon Irish coffee with the music! Sláinte!

Monday, August 5, 2024
Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series: Pickin’ in the Park
Aug 5 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Pritchard Park

The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

 

Mondays: Pickin’ in the Park

Enjoy performances by local singer-songwriters in an intimate and relaxed setting. Experience the rich musical heritage of Asheville as talented musicians share their stories and songs.

Robert’s Totally Rad Trivia
Aug 5 @ 7:00 pm
DSSOLVR

TRIVIA-post-super-rob-banner

DSSOLVR PRESENTS:

ROBERT’S TOTALLY RAD TRIVIA

Every Monday, at 7:00 PM, come on down

Trivia w/ Billy
Aug 5 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The River Arts District Brewing Company

Trivia with Billy is Asheville’s best eclectic trivia night. This blend of factoids, music knowledge, and critical thinking is guaranteed to have a little bit for everyone. A diverse team of thinkers is a must if you want to win. There are bonuses prizes on nights with 10+ teams, if your team beats the ever-present brewery team, and for best team name. This trivia takes a lot more than just being good at Jeopardy! This is the perfect way to extend your weekend, or start your week. As a wise man once said, “I drink and I know things,” and this is your chance to prove it!

Trivia with Billy
Aug 5 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The River Arts District Brewing Company

Trivia with Billy

prizes and more

QUIZZO PUB TRIVIA Hosted by Jason Mencer
Aug 5 @ 7:30 pm
Jack of the Wood


Hosted by the witty & sagacious Jason Mencer, our epic pub trivia night runs every Monday from 7:30-9:30pm! Plus $5.00 well drinks all night!

Come test your brain power with tasty pub fare, an adult beverage or two — and a team of your smartest friends! Win prizes each round and crow a little about what a smarty-pants you are!

Standup Comedy at The Bier Garden Featuring Cody Hughes
Aug 5 @ 8:00 pm
The Bier Garden

Join us for a night of hilarious stand-up comedy at we The Bier Garden – guaranteed laughs and good times!
Welcome to Standup Comedy at The Bier Garden ! Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt at this hilarious event happening in person at The Bier Garden . Te largest selection of beers on tap in Asheville! Full deliscious menu available during show. Join us for a night of non-stop laughter as talented comedians take the stage to entertain you. Grab a drink, relax, and enjoy a night of comedy with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to have a great time and create lasting memories. Get your tickets now!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley of Netflix & Amazon Prime, voted Asheville’s favorite comic in the Mountain Xpress! Headline Cody Hughes! And featuring Julia Macias!! Don’t want to miss this show, get tix early! Tickets: https://sliceoflifecomedycodyhughes.eventbrite.com
For Limited time use SLICEVIP for $3 off!

Tuesday, August 6, 2024
Music at the Bistro
Aug 6 @ 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Join us at the Bistro Stage most Tuesdays for music from The Arbor Trio!

The Arbor Trio features Mack Johnston on mandolin, Melanie Johnston on Mountain Dulcimer and Jeff McKelvey on guitar and vocals. The group plays a wide variety of musical genres.

Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series: Hoop Jam
Aug 6 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

Tuesdays: Hoop Jam

Join the fun with hula hoops and a live DJ. Whether you’re a seasoned hooper or a beginner, this vibrant event invites everyone to dance, spin, and groove to the music in a welcoming and energetic atmosphere.

STRAIGHT NO CHASER
Aug 6 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Concert Hall

If the phrase “male a cappella group” conjures up an image of students in blue blazers, ties, and khakis singing traditional college songs on ivied campuses… think again.

Straight No Chaser (SNC) are neither strait-laced nor straight-faced, but neither are they vaudeville-style kitsch. They have emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase and a long list of accomplishments including 2 RIAA Gold Certified albums, over 1.5 million concert tickets sold, over 1 billion streams on Pandora, and over 2 million albums sold worldwide. Straight No Chaser is the real deal, the captivating sound of nine unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense… and with a sense of humor.

Wednesday, August 7, 2024
OLD-TIME JAM Old-Time Mountain + Folk Music
Aug 7 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Jack of the Wood


Grab some dinner and a pint while enjoying our long-running Old-Time jam! Featuring many talented musicians from the local WNC area, our traditional Appalachian mountain music jam runs from 5-9pm every Wednesday night at Jack of the Wood!

Sing Your Heart Out
Aug 7 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts

Sing songs that celebrate Peace & Community, with Resident Teaching Artist Melissa McKinney. Sing, play, drum, and dance while learning songs from the Justice Choir Songbook.

Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
$15 drop-in class
All ages welcome.