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.

Wednesday, July 14, 2021
Aston Park Tennis Center
Jul 14 @ 10:00 am – 7:30 pm
Aston Park Tennis Center
people playing on the courts at aston park tennis center

 

Asheville Parks & Recreation is pleased to announce the opening of Aston Park Tennis Center on April 1 for the 2021 season.  The tennis facility will be open seven days a week with two sessions of court availability — a morning session from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and an afternoon session from 3 to 7:30 p.m. with a one-hour break for midday cleaning.

Visitors can expect some changes to typical operations to meet current state and local health guidelines including enhanced cleaning, social distancing and mandatory mask wearing except while actively engaged in tennis activity on the court.  The Pro Shop will remain closed to foot traffic, however basic tennis supplies, drinks, and racquet drop-off for restringing will be available at the window.  Court fees will also be accepted at the window by credit card only and water fountains and showers will not be available.

 

Tennis Center prices are the same as they were in 2019, with hourly rates beginning at $6 and $7 and season passes starting at $299 and $399 for City of Asheville residents.  For more information and to purchase a season pass, visit the City’s Parks & Recreation website at www.ashevillenc.gov/parks.

 

The Aston Park Tennis Center, 336 Hilliard Ave.,  is one of the finest public clay tennis court facilities in the US.  The complex is open from April through November and offers 12 lighted courts for play.

 

The City of Asheville Parks & Recreation Department is committed to providing quality facilities and programs in a safe environment for everyone in our community.  For more information about everything Asheville Parks & Recreation offers, visit the website at www.ashevillenc.gov/parks,  Facebook page at www.facebook.com/APRCA or call 828-259-5800.

Summer Animal Encounters
Jul 14 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park

Join a Park Naturalist to meet some of our resident Animal Ambassadors.  Participants will learn what kind of wildlife inhabits the Park and their important role in the ecosystem.  You might even leave with a newfound appreciation for critters you once misunderstood.

Time: Weekdays only at 11am
Cost: Included with Park admission.
Bastille Day Lawn Picnic 2021
Jul 14 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Smith-McDowell House Museum

Live music from Albi & the Lifters, plus a performance featuring Elliott Hove!

Lawn games, food, beverages and a raffle for your relaxing evening with friends and family!

$10 for ASCI members, $15 for non-members.

You can pre-purchase entry tickets or purchase day of (while supplies last). Each ticket includes a free glass of wine (red, white or rose)

Bring a picnic blanket and chairs and enjoy the evening with Asheville Sister Cities!

Food will be available for purchase ahead of time through July 10th. It will also be available at the event (while supplies last).

A directional sign located in Saumur. Donate here to help build a similar version in Asheville. | Photo courtesy of Asheville Sister Cities

Bent Creek Beginner’s Ride
Jul 14 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Bent Creek Rice Pinnacle Parking Area

Bent Creek Beginner's  Ride

**Weather related cancellations will be posted by 3pm the day of the ride**

Wednesday evenings there will be a Beginner oriented trail ride in Bent Creek at the Rice Pinnacle parking area that leaves at 6:00PM. This ride provides a welcoming environment for anyone who might be uncomfortable on intermediate or advanced rides. IF YOU’VE NEVER RIDDEN A TRAIL, THIS IS ABSOLUTELY THE RIDE FOR YOU!! While we’ll use gravel roads to connect trails, our focus will be on learning to have fun and improve skills on singletrack. While this is beginner focused, it will also be a fun social ride for those with more experience. *THIS IS MOUNTAIN BIKING ON MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS*

Where we ride and what we do will be determined by who shows up, and what we want to learn and explore. Questions from “How do I change a flat tire?” to “How do I ride over a log?” are encouraged and impromptu mini-clinics at trail features might happen.

Details:

• A mountain bike is required – This is critical as bikes with skinny tires are dangerous on trails. NO SKINNY TIRE BIKES.

• Helmets are REQUIRED(!) and biking gloves and eye protection are highly recommended.

• Please bring your own water, snacks, and a spare inner tube.

• If bad weather is predicted we’ll post a cancellation by 3:00PM.

• We’ll leave the lot at 6:00PM: If you can, be there by 5:45PM.

• We’ll try to time our rides to end just before it gets too dark to ride.

• Parking is limited. Arriving early and carpooling are recommended!

• Ride is entirely at your own risk. You assume all responsibility for your own well-being. *THIS IS MOUNTAIN BIKING ON MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS*. We cannot make the trails easier, but we will tailor the pace to Beginners.

Asheville Tourists vs. Greenville Drive
Jul 14 @ 6:35 pm
McCormick Field
Thursday, July 15, 2021
Nantahala River Rafting Fully Guided
Jul 15 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

guests rafting on the Nantahala River Raft & Duck Rentals in North Carolina trip

A guided whitewater rafting trip is one of the best ways to experience the Nantahala Gorge. The crystal-clear Nantahala River is the perfect family-friendly river where experienced river guides will help you navigate through splashy Class II-III rapids and bouncy waves, with occasional calmer waters where you can enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery. The fully guided rafting trip the most popular adventure at NOC, with thousands of families returning year after year.

Summer in the City Raffle
Jul 15 all-day
Online

The Summer in the City Raffle benefiting Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders (CRC for ED) is your chance to fit in one last summer fling and get into the Asheville groove! Whether you’re Asheville born and bred or new to the 828, you’re sure to enjoy this fun-filled, uniquely Asheville, August weekend!

The raffle winner will receive a quintessential Asheville summer getaway package, valued at $1,550, including:

  • 2 nights in Banjoe Vacations’ Downtown Asheville Condo – This beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo is located right in downtown Asheville, walking distance to all downtown activities, and just a 10-minute drive to the River Arts District or Biltmore Village. (Downtown condo dates are August 27 and August 28, 2021. Alternate dates may be selected based on condo availability and must be arranged directly thru Banjoe Vacations. Alternate condo dates must be booked no later than August 15, 2021. See Terms and Conditions for full details.)

  • 2 tickets for the Eating Asheville “High Roller Tour” – Sit down at some of the most elegant, trendy, and acclaimed tables in our beloved foodie city, and sample an array of flavors, cuisines, and local produce. This tour features 6 restaurants, at least 3 drink pairings, and 2.5 hours of deliciousness.

  • 2 tickets to Zen Tubing (including cooler carrier) – Cool off with one of Asheville’s favorite summer activities – a day of lazy tubing down the river from one of two great locations.

  • 2 tickets for the LaZoom “Hey Asheville! City Comedy Tour” – Learn Asheville’s  history, discover hidden gems, and laugh at LaZoom’s quirky sense of adventure on this 90-minute guided comedy tour of historical Asheville.

  • $25 Gift Card to Taco Billy – There’s no better way to round out a day of tubing on the river than with tacos featuring local ingredients from one of Asheville’s favorite taco restaurants.

  • $25 Gift Card to Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar – Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, this combination used book store and wine bar is a beloved and uniquely Asheville experience.

  • $25 Gift Card to French Broad Chocolate Lounge or French Broad Chocolate Factory & Cafe – From delicious desserts to creative confections, you can add some extra sweetness to this sweet weekend trip at Asheville’s favorite chocolatier.

A limited number of raffle tickets will be available for purchase from July 2, 2021 through July 30, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. EDT on our specially created event website at https://rafflecreator.com/pages/40142/crc-for-eds-summer-in-the-city-raffle. The winner will be selected at random, announced on all CRC for ED social media platforms on July 30th at approximately 7:00 p.m. EDT, and will be notified directly by telephone, mail, and/or email. Please see full Terms & Conditions here: https://crcfored.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/CRCforED-Summer-in-the-City-Raffle-Terms-Conditions.pdf.

Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders is the only nonprofit in NC providing education, resources, and support to individuals, families, and professionals concerned with disordered eating and recovery from eating disorders.

Your participation in the Summer in the City Raffle allows us to continue offering accessible eating disorder support services and education at a time when the need is greater than ever, while also  giving you the chance to win a last minute getaway!

Wild Art Sculpture Showcase
Jul 15 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
NC Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum is going wild for art and nature in 2021 with Wild Art! On view April 1 through September 26, this outdoor sculpture exhibition features works by 17 local and national artists drawing inspiration from the natural environment. Situated throughout the Arboretum’s spacious, open-air gardens, the show offers guests a doorway into the wild world from the comfort and safety of cultivated landscapes transformed by art.

The 18 sculptures on display represent a variety of approaches to the theme of “wild art,” from the literal to the abstract, and are crafted from a diverse array of materials that will delight and inspire. Let your imagination take you on a wild journey into the world of plants and animals near and far with Wild Art at The North Carolina Arboretum.

The exhibit is available to all guests during normal Arboretum hours, and there is no admission cost to view the sculptures beyond our usual parking fee of $16 per personal vehicle.

Fairy Trail 2021
Jul 15 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Bullington Gardens

Fairy Trail 2021

Join us on the magical Fairy Trail where your imagination is the only limit.

Developed by Fairies and dedicated volunteers, Bullington Gardens’ Fairy Trail is a whimsical treat for the young and the young at heart. Featuring playful vignettes and villages, the fairy trail will charm you with its thoughtful design, eye catching displays and secret woodland trail.

Rules of the trail:

Do not move or rearrange fairy displays. The fairies are very fond of their own decorating.

Do not leave trash on the trail. Fairies do not like litter in their town.

Please ensure children and pets are supervised at all times. Dogs and loud noises can scare the fairies into hiding.

Do not disturb wildlife or vegetation. The fairies depend on the vegetation to build their homes.

The trail is one way only. Please stay on the trail at all times.

P.S. the Fairies would like us to remind you that we are a non-profit and donations are greatly appreciated. Help us keep the fairies living in the style with which they’ve become accustomed.

Bullington Gardens and the Fairy Trail are closed on Sundays.

Biltmore Gardens Railway
Jul 15 @ 9:30 am – 6:00 pm
Biltmore

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.

Summer at Biltmore
Jul 15 @ 9:30 am – 6:00 pm
Biltmore

See the source image

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.

Aston Park Tennis Center
Jul 15 @ 10:00 am – 7:30 pm
Aston Park Tennis Center
people playing on the courts at aston park tennis center

 

Asheville Parks & Recreation is pleased to announce the opening of Aston Park Tennis Center on April 1 for the 2021 season.  The tennis facility will be open seven days a week with two sessions of court availability — a morning session from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and an afternoon session from 3 to 7:30 p.m. with a one-hour break for midday cleaning.

Visitors can expect some changes to typical operations to meet current state and local health guidelines including enhanced cleaning, social distancing and mandatory mask wearing except while actively engaged in tennis activity on the court.  The Pro Shop will remain closed to foot traffic, however basic tennis supplies, drinks, and racquet drop-off for restringing will be available at the window.  Court fees will also be accepted at the window by credit card only and water fountains and showers will not be available.

 

Tennis Center prices are the same as they were in 2019, with hourly rates beginning at $6 and $7 and season passes starting at $299 and $399 for City of Asheville residents.  For more information and to purchase a season pass, visit the City’s Parks & Recreation website at www.ashevillenc.gov/parks.

 

The Aston Park Tennis Center, 336 Hilliard Ave.,  is one of the finest public clay tennis court facilities in the US.  The complex is open from April through November and offers 12 lighted courts for play.

 

The City of Asheville Parks & Recreation Department is committed to providing quality facilities and programs in a safe environment for everyone in our community.  For more information about everything Asheville Parks & Recreation offers, visit the website at www.ashevillenc.gov/parks,  Facebook page at www.facebook.com/APRCA or call 828-259-5800.

Asheville Fit Tribe Group: 60 minute of strength training
Jul 15 @ 4:15 pm – 5:15 pm
Carrier Park

Join the Asheville Fit Tribe Group for a 60 minute of strength training. You will get personalized training with the power of the group to positively motivate you. Get ready to get a full body workout in for all fitness levels. So, no matter where you are at from beginner to collegiate athlete Trainer Preston will make sure you get a phenomenal workout. For Strength day we focus on slow controlled weight lifting. Learning how to become more aware of our bodies. We hope you give us a shot and see what we are all about!! For any question shoot Preston a text/call (984)204-0591.

Asheville Fit Tribe Group: 60 minute of strength training
Jul 15 @ 5:15 pm – 6:15 pm
Carrier Park

Join the Asheville Fit Tribe Group for a 60 minute of strength training. You will get personalized training with the power of the group to positively motivate you. Get ready to get a full body workout in for all fitness levels. So, no matter where you are at from beginner to collegiate athlete Trainer Preston will make sure you get a phenomenal workout. For Strength day we focus on slow controlled weight lifting. Learning how to become more aware of our bodies. We hope you give us a shot and see what we are all about!! For any question shoot Preston a text/call (984)204-0591.

ArborEvenings
Jul 15 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
The North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens and experience our Wild Art outdoor sculpture showcase in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Thursdays and most Fridays through October 1, 2021, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. ArborEvenings are not scheduled on the following Fridays: July 9, August 6, September 3 and 10.

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

Please note: ArborEvenings will not be held in the event of rain. Please check the website or Facebook page by 3 p.m. for any cancellation announcements prior to attending. 

Beverage Service

Beer, Wine, and soft drinks will be for sale onsite at the Green Gardener’s Shed from 5:30 to 8:15 p.m. each night of the event. Outside alcohol is strictly prohibited, but guests are welcome to bring in water or a favorite non-alcoholic beverage.

Food Available for Pre-Order, Picnics Welcome

Although the Bent Creek Bistro will not be open during the event, we are pleased to share that they will be offering their delicious dining options at ArborEvenings via pre-order this year! Simply place your online order — including alcoholic beverages — up until 11 a.m. on the date you plan to attend, then pick up your order at the Baker Information Desk between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. (In the event of rain cancellation, pre-orders will be fully refunded.)

Guests are welcome to bring in outside food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited.

ORDER AHEAD

Musician Schedule

Please note, scheduled performances are subject to change.

Know Before You Go

  • Parking fees will be collected at the gate upon arrival, and members must present valid card for free entry. Pre-registration is not required.
  • Restroom access will be available during ArborEvenings inside the Baker Visitor Center.
  • Guests are invited to explore A Life in the Wild, a breathtaking exhibition of photographs from Thomas D. Mangelsen; however, food and drink are not permitted inside the Exhibit Hall.
  • Leashed dogs are welcome at ArborEvenings, but are not permitted inside of  buildings.
  • To protect our lawn, blankets are not permitted at the event; however, guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs to set up in front of the musicians.
  • Due to existing event bookings, ArborEvenings will not take place on the following Fridays: July 9, August 6 and September 3 and 10.
Chestnut Hill Walking Tour
Jul 15 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Chestnut Hill: Hillside and North Liberty Streets
Join us for a walking tour of Chestnut Hill!  The tour will visit the homes of North Liberty and East Chestnut Streets as well as the homes slated for demolition as part of the proposed 101 Charlotte Street development.  The walk is about 1.5 miles and should take around an hour and half.
When: Thursday, 7/15 at 5:30 pm AND Saturday, 7/17 at 10:00 am
Where: Meet on the corner of Hillside and North Liberty Streets
*Give yourself time to find street parking in the area
Rhythm + Brews: Abby Bryant + The Echoes
Jul 15 @ 5:30 pm
Main Street between Allen & Caswell Streets.

 

The Rhythm & Brews concerts series brings together live music, a variety of food trucks, and locally crafted beer, wine and cider! These free concerts close part of South Main Street to make room for all the fun, as well as a children’s area with games and activities. Tickets and wristbands, for the purchase of beer, wine and hard cider, will be located at the Downtown Hendersonville tent.

The Rhythm & Brews musical line-up includes established acts as well as up-and-coming artists from around the nation playing a wide range of tunes from southern rock, soul to R&B.

The concerts begin with an opener at 5:30 pm followed by the headlining performance at 7:30 pm,on the third Thursday of each month from May – September (2021 the concerts will run July – October) on Main Street between Allen & Caswell Streets.

The Inclement Weather Policy is to delay each act by 30 minutes before moving onto the next act. If headline act is unable to perform by 8:00 pm the show will be canceled.  Follow the weather decisions on Facebook page.

Please leave your pets comfortably at home. A Hendersonville City ordinance allows event organizers to exclude animals from the event space for the health, safety and welfare of the community, dogs, patrons, and vendors and their products.

Free Yoga – The Park at Flat Rock
Jul 15 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

Group of people with arms outstretched doing yoga in a park.

Hendersonville yoga studio, YAM, is offering free outdoor yoga at The Park at Flat Rock on Thursdays and Saturdays. Get outside and get moving with these fun and refreshing classes. Click to learn more about YAM’s community yoga.

Asheville Fit Tribe Group: 60 minute of strength training
Jul 15 @ 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Carrier Park

Join the Asheville Fit Tribe Group for a 60 minute of strength training. You will get personalized training with the power of the group to positively motivate you. Get ready to get a full body workout in for all fitness levels. So, no matter where you are at from beginner to collegiate athlete Trainer Preston will make sure you get a phenomenal workout. For Strength day we focus on slow controlled weight lifting. Learning how to become more aware of our bodies. We hope you give us a shot and see what we are all about!! For any question shoot Preston a text/call (984)204-0591.

Asheville Tourists vs. Greenville Drive
Jul 15 @ 6:35 pm
McCormick Field
Friday, July 16, 2021
2021 Brevard Music Center Raffle
Jul 16 all-day
Online

Official 2021 Raffle RulesAudi

PROCEEDS

This raffle is a fundraising event, and all net proceeds benefit the Brevard Music Center (BMC). Brevard Music Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN# 56-0729350

DRAWING

The drawing will take place on Monday, November 15, 2021 at 3:00pm EDT. All mail, phone, and internet orders must be received by 11:59pm EDT on Sunday, November 14, 2021.

TICKETS

The cost to purchase a single entry (“Ticket”) for the Raffle is $125 (U.S. Funds only) and is not tax deductible.

Driving Tour with Smith-McDowell House
Jul 16 all-day
Online w/ Western North Carolina Historical Association
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.

Nantahala River Rafting Fully Guided
Jul 16 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

guests rafting on the Nantahala River Raft & Duck Rentals in North Carolina trip

A guided whitewater rafting trip is one of the best ways to experience the Nantahala Gorge. The crystal-clear Nantahala River is the perfect family-friendly river where experienced river guides will help you navigate through splashy Class II-III rapids and bouncy waves, with occasional calmer waters where you can enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery. The fully guided rafting trip the most popular adventure at NOC, with thousands of families returning year after year.

Rafting
Jul 16 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Rafting

Available April – October with the morning departure of the Nantahala Gorge Excursion departing Bryson City, NC. Train seating in Open Air Gondola. Booking available by phone only: 1-800-872-4681.

Convenient, Inclusive, and Simple!

  • Adult (13 years and older) $109
    Child (Minimum of 7 years old or 60 pounds) $92

A Fully-Guided Experience

The original Raft & Rail© since 1988: enjoy the two best adventures in the region in one day, great for families. Southern Living Magazine calls this “an ideal adventure for families, first-timers, young or old.” This full-day guided adventure starts with a Wildwater staff member greeting you at the train depot, followed by a scenic train trip, deli lunch with all the fixings, and a Nantahala River whitewater trip with a guide in every boat. Hot showers and a photo show follow immediately after your 8 mile Nantahala River trip. All transportation is included to and from the Bryson City Train Depot.

Available by phone only. Book now by calling 800-872-4681.

Rail + Trail
Jul 16 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

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.

Summer in the City Raffle
Jul 16 all-day
Online

The Summer in the City Raffle benefiting Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders (CRC for ED) is your chance to fit in one last summer fling and get into the Asheville groove! Whether you’re Asheville born and bred or new to the 828, you’re sure to enjoy this fun-filled, uniquely Asheville, August weekend!

The raffle winner will receive a quintessential Asheville summer getaway package, valued at $1,550, including:

  • 2 nights in Banjoe Vacations’ Downtown Asheville Condo – This beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo is located right in downtown Asheville, walking distance to all downtown activities, and just a 10-minute drive to the River Arts District or Biltmore Village. (Downtown condo dates are August 27 and August 28, 2021. Alternate dates may be selected based on condo availability and must be arranged directly thru Banjoe Vacations. Alternate condo dates must be booked no later than August 15, 2021. See Terms and Conditions for full details.)

  • 2 tickets for the Eating Asheville “High Roller Tour” – Sit down at some of the most elegant, trendy, and acclaimed tables in our beloved foodie city, and sample an array of flavors, cuisines, and local produce. This tour features 6 restaurants, at least 3 drink pairings, and 2.5 hours of deliciousness.

  • 2 tickets to Zen Tubing (including cooler carrier) – Cool off with one of Asheville’s favorite summer activities – a day of lazy tubing down the river from one of two great locations.

  • 2 tickets for the LaZoom “Hey Asheville! City Comedy Tour” – Learn Asheville’s  history, discover hidden gems, and laugh at LaZoom’s quirky sense of adventure on this 90-minute guided comedy tour of historical Asheville.

  • $25 Gift Card to Taco Billy – There’s no better way to round out a day of tubing on the river than with tacos featuring local ingredients from one of Asheville’s favorite taco restaurants.

  • $25 Gift Card to Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar – Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, this combination used book store and wine bar is a beloved and uniquely Asheville experience.

  • $25 Gift Card to French Broad Chocolate Lounge or French Broad Chocolate Factory & Cafe – From delicious desserts to creative confections, you can add some extra sweetness to this sweet weekend trip at Asheville’s favorite chocolatier.

A limited number of raffle tickets will be available for purchase from July 2, 2021 through July 30, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. EDT on our specially created event website at https://rafflecreator.com/pages/40142/crc-for-eds-summer-in-the-city-raffle. The winner will be selected at random, announced on all CRC for ED social media platforms on July 30th at approximately 7:00 p.m. EDT, and will be notified directly by telephone, mail, and/or email. Please see full Terms & Conditions here: https://crcfored.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/CRCforED-Summer-in-the-City-Raffle-Terms-Conditions.pdf.

Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders is the only nonprofit in NC providing education, resources, and support to individuals, families, and professionals concerned with disordered eating and recovery from eating disorders.

Your participation in the Summer in the City Raffle allows us to continue offering accessible eating disorder support services and education at a time when the need is greater than ever, while also  giving you the chance to win a last minute getaway!

Tarzan Train
Jul 16 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Tarzan Train

 

Our train and canopy combo trip will start in Bryson City at the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad train depot. You will ride through the Smoky Mountains, along Fontana Lake and up into the Nantahala Gorge. On your 2 hour train ride, watch paddlers challenge the rapids on the Nantahala River. A delicious Deli Sandwich lunch is included. At the top-of-the-line, you will disembark the train and travel a short distance to Wildwater’s Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours.

The original zipline canopy tour in Western North Carolina, Wildwater’s Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours offers 13 different zip lines and 8 sky bridges. Our two highest platforms have unbelievable views of Clingman’s Dome, Fontana Lake and waterfalls. This gliding experience, naturally fueled by a gradual elevation change, takes you through multiple ecosystems, past hemlocks, into hardwoods and through a deciduous forest packed with native flowering plants. All Canopy Tour Rangers are trained to – and all courses are built and inspected to – ACCT Standards to provide for your well-being and fun. This is a great experience for families.

After enjoying the fully guided zip line tour, check out your photos and buy a t-shirt in Wildwater’s store. Your adventure will end later in the afternoon back at your car in Bryson City, NC. All transportation is included.

Members of your party who can’t – or don’t want to – go on the canopy tour can ride the train round trip. You’ll all meet up shortly after the train’s return in Bryson City, NC.

Victoria: The Forgotten Town Walking Tour
Jul 16 all-day
Online w/ Western North Carolina Historical Association
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).
Wild Art Sculpture Showcase
Jul 16 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
NC Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum is going wild for art and nature in 2021 with Wild Art! On view April 1 through September 26, this outdoor sculpture exhibition features works by 17 local and national artists drawing inspiration from the natural environment. Situated throughout the Arboretum’s spacious, open-air gardens, the show offers guests a doorway into the wild world from the comfort and safety of cultivated landscapes transformed by art.

The 18 sculptures on display represent a variety of approaches to the theme of “wild art,” from the literal to the abstract, and are crafted from a diverse array of materials that will delight and inspire. Let your imagination take you on a wild journey into the world of plants and animals near and far with Wild Art at The North Carolina Arboretum.

The exhibit is available to all guests during normal Arboretum hours, and there is no admission cost to view the sculptures beyond our usual parking fee of $16 per personal vehicle.

Fairy Trail 2021
Jul 16 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Bullington Gardens

Fairy Trail 2021

Join us on the magical Fairy Trail where your imagination is the only limit.

Developed by Fairies and dedicated volunteers, Bullington Gardens’ Fairy Trail is a whimsical treat for the young and the young at heart. Featuring playful vignettes and villages, the fairy trail will charm you with its thoughtful design, eye catching displays and secret woodland trail.

Rules of the trail:

Do not move or rearrange fairy displays. The fairies are very fond of their own decorating.

Do not leave trash on the trail. Fairies do not like litter in their town.

Please ensure children and pets are supervised at all times. Dogs and loud noises can scare the fairies into hiding.

Do not disturb wildlife or vegetation. The fairies depend on the vegetation to build their homes.

The trail is one way only. Please stay on the trail at all times.

P.S. the Fairies would like us to remind you that we are a non-profit and donations are greatly appreciated. Help us keep the fairies living in the style with which they’ve become accustomed.

Bullington Gardens and the Fairy Trail are closed on Sundays.