Calendar of Events
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.
Meadows don’t have to be massive to contribute to the biodiversity and beauty of a landscape. Many gardeners are learning how to incorporate meadow style plantings in their home or small business landscapes. Join us for our engaging workshop on creating a meadow style landscape feature. Learn from Crissy Dzielak, Vice President and co-owner of Landmark Landscapes about the plants, installation techniques, and maintenance practices that bring these vibrant, naturalistic landscapes to life.
Topics covered include:
Plant Selection: Understand which grasses, wildflowers, and perennials are ideal for meadow-style plantings, focusing on native and drought-tolerant species that thrive in our region.
Installation Techniques: Learn step-by-step methods for preparing your site, sowing seeds, and planting plugs to establish a thriving meadow.
Maintenance Practices: Gain insights into sustainable practices for managing weeds, supporting plant diversity, and maintaining the health and beauty of your meadow over time.
This talk is perfect for gardeners and landscape enthusiasts looking to create low-maintenance, ecologically beneficial, and visually stunning meadow landscapes. Join us to explore meadow style plantings and how they can transform your garden into a haven for wildlife and a feast for the eyes.
March 12, 2025, 1:00-3:00pm.
Fishes of the Southern Appalachians with Carlton Burke
ON-SITE | Thursday, March 13 | 12 – 4 pm
Blue Ridge Naturalist – Wildlife of the Blue Ridge Core Credit
The Southern Appalachian region is rich with a variety of fish species. These include not only the better known species of game fish that we love to catch for sport or food, but also include an incredible diversity of smaller, lesser-known non-game fish, which play an important role in the ecology of our aquatic mountain habitats. In this class we will discuss many of the fish species found in the mountain region and learn about their classification, habitat, life cycles, and their identifying features.
This program includes a lab portion of the class where students will see some features of fish hands on with real fish specimens.
Protecting our Native Hemlocks: Treatment Demonstration with Hemlock Restorative Initiative
ON-SITE | Friday, March 14 | 1 – 4 pm
Blue Ridge EcoGardener – Elective Credit
Join Hemlock Restoration Initiative staff for a demonstration and workshop in the Arboretum forest to learn the fundamentals of treating hemlock trees to protect them from the invasive insect, hemlock woolly adelgid. Designed for a general audience, this workshop is great for homeowners who steward hemlocks on their property or for anyone interested in learning treatment basics. Today hemlock management is simpler and less expensive than ever before!
Drawn to Nature with Matt Reyna
ON-SITE | Sunday, March 16 | 10am – 12:30pm
Join us for a Sunday morning reserved for creative self-care. Using basic mark-makers (pencils, graphite, etc) we’ll explore the instinctual, yet undervalued act of drawing–through the lens of nature. Choose your own focus – capture grand mountain views from our classroom, work on a collective nature still life, or hone in on the small details of nature on your own. Weather depending, students may choose to sketch outside.
Basic art materials, hot tea, and a welcoming atmosphere will be provided. All skill levels welcome! Feel free to bring your own materials, but kindly keep wet media (paints, etc) at home.
This program takes place both indoors and out. Please come prepared to walk on gentle, yet uneven terrain, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Scouting the First Signs of Spring with Lauren Lampley
ON-SITE | Tuesday, March 18 | 2 – 4 pm
Blue Ridge Naturalist – Elective Credit
Spring is an exciting time of the year and even more so this year after the destruction following Tropical Storm Helene last year. Join Lauren on an exploration to find the first signs of spring! During this class we will also discuss the study of phenology and it is important to record the timing of spring’s events especially for climate scientists.
This program takes place outdoors. Please come prepared to walk on gentle, yet uneven terrain, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Acclaimed author and retreat leader Renée Trudeau leads an embodied spiritual experience exploring ways to connect with the Divine in everyday life — including through song, gentle movement, meditation and more. Part of Kanuga’s Lunch & Learn series, the Thursday, March 20 event begins with a nature immersion gathering (weather permitting) at 10 a.m. Trudeau’s “Soul Tending” presentation will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a buffet lunch in Kanuga’s dining hall. Bring a journal, pen and an early childhood photo of themselves. Registration and more info at kanuga.org/events.
Leading a Nature Hike 101 with Lauren Lampley
ON-SITE | Friday, March 21 | 1 – 4 pm
Blue Ridge Naturalist – Capstone Credit
Leading a group on a hike in nature comes naturally to some people but for others it is a skill developed over time. In this class we will talk about best practices for how to safely and efficiently lead a group on a hike in nature as well as what planning is necessary before the day of the hike. We will discuss possible hazards to keep an eye on and what to do in case of an emergency in “front country” hiking areas such as many trails in the Asheville area.
This program takes place both indoors and out. Please come prepared to walk on gentle, yet uneven terrain, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Soil Health for Gardeners with Laura Lengnick
ON-SITE | Saturday, March 22 | 1 – 4 pm
Blue Ridge EcoGardener – Core
Learn why healthy soils are critical to the well being of our communities and how to cultivate landscapes that promote soil health. This practical, hands-on course will teach you how to conduct simple soil tests using tools you can find in your kitchen to monitor the health of your soil. Participants can bring a soil sample from their garden to test in this class.
Lunch + Learn: Wildfire Mitigation in Southern Appalachia with Troy Harrison
Sunday, March 23 | 12pm – 1pm
The Southern Appalachian ecosystem is home to a diverse landscape filled with a unique combination of wildlife and vegetation. It is hardly surprising that Western North Carolina is a popular destination for those seeking a pace to settle down or build a second home. However, living in close proximity to nature can carry a risk of damage or loss from wildfire. This program will explore a brief history of wildfire suppression in our area, along with specific measures anyone can take to reduce risk of property damage.
Natural History Interpretation (3 sessions) with Brad Daniel
Tuesdays, March 25, April 1 + 8 | 12 – 4 pm
Natural history interpreters provoke interest and curiosity in our natural and cultural heritage. This course will introduce the basic principles of environmental interpretation and is designed for Blue Ridge Naturalists who will be leading nature walks, teaching natural history to adults or children, and delivering talks to community groups. Participants will learn how to create nature education talks or walks that are purposeful, enjoyable, informative and organized. Students will be given an opportunity to develop their own programs and practice their presentation and communication skills. This class fulfills a Capstone Core requirement for the Blue Ridge Naturalist Certificate and should be completed near the end of a student’s studies in the program.
Introduction to Appalachian Ecology with Dan Lazar
ON-SITE | Wednesday, March 26 | 1 – 4 pm
From the flood plain of the French Broad River to the summit of Mount Mitchel, we will explore the diverse ecological communities that make up the Blue Ridge Bioregion. We will learn why spruce trees are found only on the summits of our highest mountains: why the Southern Appalachians are the lungless salamander capital of the world; and how deer and ants determine where trilliums grow. Part illustrated lecture and part on-site field trip, this class serves as an introduction to all Special Topics in Ecology classes offered through the Blue Ridge Naturalist Program.
This program takes place in the classroom and outdoors. Please come prepared to walk on gentle, yet uneven terrain, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Ages 5+
Suitable for Beginners to Advanced Birders
This outing takes place at Lake Julian Park from 8:30-11:30 am. Get to know the birds of Lake Julian, one of Buncombe County’s birding hotspots! We will start with a walk along the shore of Lake Julian and ends with birding on the lake from Lake Julian’s pontoon boat. Free, Registration Required. Binoculars are available upon request but supplies are limited. Dress for the weather!
Registration opens 30 days prior to activity.
For more information email [email protected] or call 828-250-4260.
Spring Ephemeral Wildflowers with Alexandra Holland
ON-SITE | Saturday, March 29 | 1 – 3 pm
Spring is here, and the natural world is waking from its winter rest! Naturalist and botanist Alexandra Holland leads this wildflower walk at the Arboretum, pointing out the array of spring wildflowers emerging and in bloom. Learn some basics of wildflower ecology and identification while taking in the beauty of spring.
This program takes place outdoors. Please come prepared to walk on gentle, yet uneven terrain, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Join us for an easy morning bird walk in the Garden led by Dr. Andrew Laughlin, longtime birder and UNCA Associate Professor of Environmental Science. He will guide us with tips about habitat and habits, as we look for, listen to, and enjoy the birds. Participants will learn to recognize songs and calls. Field guides are helpful but not required. Bring binoculars if you have them and dress for the weather, from drizzle to sunshine.
Early Spring Tree ID with Lauren Lampley
ON-SITE | Sunday, March 30 | 10 am – 1 pm
Each tree species grows their new leaves in unique ways and each spring we are reminded of that fact as the tiny leaves emerge from their buds. The timing of the spring “leaf-out” depends on many different factors and the weather plays an important role in if those first leaves survive to the summer or if they are burned by a late frost or snow. In this class we will look at which trees are leafing out first and how those leaves compare to the summer leaves we know. We will also discuss how to identify different tree species based on their new leaves and their bark.
This program takes place outdoors. Please come prepared to walk on gentle, yet uneven terrain, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Birding for Beginners with Lauren Lampley
ON-SITE | Tuesday, April 1 | 9 – 10:30am
Join us on this birding walk around the NC Arboretum gardens and trails in search of a very common year round resident of North Carolina: Carolina Chickadee. We will take an in-depth look at these common feeder birds and also look for other early spring migrants. Bring your own binoculars but if you do not have a pair we have some loaner binoculars available to use during the program.
This program will take place outside and will follow easy trails and paved walkways. Dress for the weather and prepare to be outside for the entire program time.
Natural History Interpretation (3 sessions) with Brad Daniel
Tuesdays, March 25, April 1 + 8 | 12 – 4 pm
Natural history interpreters provoke interest and curiosity in our natural and cultural heritage. This course will introduce the basic principles of environmental interpretation and is designed for Blue Ridge Naturalists who will be leading nature walks, teaching natural history to adults or children, and delivering talks to community groups. Participants will learn how to create nature education talks or walks that are purposeful, enjoyable, informative and organized. Students will be given an opportunity to develop their own programs and practice their presentation and communication skills. This class fulfills a Capstone Core requirement for the Blue Ridge Naturalist Certificate and should be completed near the end of a student’s studies in the program.
Bullington Gardens is known for our expansive collection of dahlias. Each year our volunteer dahlia crew work tirelessly to ensure we have the best crop possible. These amazing plants take quite a bit of work to be successful, and it starts with dividing your tuber. Join Kim Biggerstaff and Isaac Wyatt as we walk through the culture of dahlias. We will also have a tuber dividing demo after the class. Participants will get a chance to divide a clump of tubers and take one home!
April 1, 2025, 1:00-3:00 pm. Fee: $30.00
Beginning Botany with Alexandra Holland
Friday, April 4 | 1 – 4pm
It’s a tough life for a plant: make dinner, create and nurture offspring, fight off predators, deal with the neighbors. In Beginning Botany we’ll explore how plants handle these daily challenges using and modifying only leaves, stems, and roots. We’ll cover the basics of plant structure and function.
Ages 5+
Suitable for Beginners to Advanced Birders
This outing takes place at Lake Julian Park from 8:30-11:30 am. Get to know the birds of Lake Julian, one of Buncombe County’s birding hotspots! We will start with a walk along the shore of Lake Julian and ends with birding on the lake from Lake Julian’s pontoon boat. Free, Registration Required. Binoculars are available upon request but supplies are limited. Dress for the weather!
Registration opens 30 days prior to activity.
For more information email [email protected] or call 828-250-4260.
Southern Appalachian Birds Through the Seasons with Carlton Burke
Saturday, April 5 | 12 – 4 pm
Since birds are capable of long distance flights and many engage in annual migration rituals, their presence in our area often changes in relation to the seasons of the year. In this class we will discuss the seasonal patterns of southern Appalachian birds and focus on some of the major species and their annual life cycles. As part of this program, there will be a “lab” portion where students will be able to meet some live birds and participate in other hands-on components to deepen the learning.
EcoHopeful with Liza Wolff-Francis
Sunday, April 6 | 2 – 4 pm
In a climate disaster like a hurricane, there is chaos and moment to moment survival and often fear. Immediately afterwards, there is often a gathering of self, an assessing of the situation. Then comes grief, loss, and uncertainty. Much later, the outer world expects things will all get back to normal, though we may not feel we are quite “back” to what we were. In fact, we may feel deeply changed. In all of these stages of a disaster, we assess what is happening and how we are doing and what we need to do going forward.
In this quick 2-hour workshop, we will come together in our resiliency to normalize how we have responded to the disaster and to learn and practice tools to calm our nervous systems in order to feel stronger in our current assessment of what’s next for us. Join us for a gathering in community, strength building, and resiliency boosting, as we continue to weave Helene into one of the stories we carry with us, not one that carries us.
Co-Existing with Black Bears with Tanya Poole
Wednesday, April 9 | 5 – 6 pm
It’s spring and you know what that means. Warmer temperatures, beautiful flowers and trees blooming, people venturing out to enjoy it all. And it turns out black bears are coming out in large numbers to enjoy the same things that humans enjoy. Learn about the conditions that contribute to the black bear population continuing to thrive in Western North Carolina in proximity to so many people. Tanya Poole, Conservation Initiatives Engagement Coordinator with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, discusses BearWise strategies recommended by wildlife experts that will help people better coexist with these amazing animals.
Natural History Interpretation (3 sessions) with Brad Daniel
Tuesdays, March 25, April 1 + 8 | 12 – 4 pm
Natural history interpreters provoke interest and curiosity in our natural and cultural heritage. This course will introduce the basic principles of environmental interpretation and is designed for Blue Ridge Naturalists who will be leading nature walks, teaching natural history to adults or children, and delivering talks to community groups. Participants will learn how to create nature education talks or walks that are purposeful, enjoyable, informative and organized. Students will be given an opportunity to develop their own programs and practice their presentation and communication skills. This class fulfills a Capstone Core requirement for the Blue Ridge Naturalist Certificate and should be completed near the end of a student’s studies in the program.
Discover the delicate and fleeting world of ephemeral flowers, mosses, and ferns that grace our landscapes with their beauty. Join Steve Pettis, Henderson County Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent and host of the Gardening in the Mountains Radio Show and Podcast and learn to identify these early spring wonders, understand their unique lifecycles, and explore their roles in the ecosystem.
Local, regional, and national organizations will present information and ideas about advocacy and volunteer opportunities. Q&A and social hour will follow. Food and drinks will be available. Free and all are welcome!
Grab your four-legged friend and come out for some fun and friendly competition at the Buncombe County Sports Park Dog Park. There will be a small and large dog division and division will have approximately 30 minutes to find as many hidden eggs (filled with treats) as possible. In addition, dogs who collect the most eggs will receive a special prize. Free, Registration Required.
Forest Bathing Retreat: Celebrating Mother Earth with Asheville Wellness Tours
Saturday, April 12 | 2 – 5pm
April is Earth Month, a time to honor our precious planet and take action to protect her. Celebrate spring while cultivating your relationship with Mother Earth, yourself, and others, during this rejuvenating afternoon nature immersion retreat.
Your guide will lead you on a gentle journey through the spring forest, weaving mindfulness, breathwork, forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku) and nature therapy together for a restorative afternoon on some of the trails less traveled at the North Carolina Arboretum. We’ll celebrate the experience in community, enjoying a wild-foraged tea ceremony and snacks. Bring an open mind and an open heart. All are welcome. Presented through Adult & Continuing Education Programs in collaboration with Asheville Wellness Tours.
This program takes place outdoors. Please come prepared to walk on uneven terrain and dress appropriately for the weather.
Join us in the beautiful neighborhood of Olivette for an outdoor concert featuring two fantastic folk groups: A Different Thread and The Wilder Flower. $25 – Kids are free!
British-American troubadours A Different Thread create richly emotive tapestry of transatlantic folk. Lead singers Robert Jackson (Midlands, UK) and Alicia Best (North Carolina) first met busking in Ireland. Their chance encounter sparked a musical journey that has spanned over nine years, a dozen countries, and two studio albums— capturing the love of two folk singers chasing their dreams on the road.
The Wilder Flower, featuring Danielle Yother on guitar, Molly Johnson on banjo, and Madeline Dierauf on fiddle, encompasses a fresh take on rural Appalachian music. Together they blend modern influences with their deep roots of old time & bluegrass. Their songs are filled with three-part harmonies, tight instrumental blends, and storytelling.
Explore the labyrinth as a practice of deep listening with our hearts and a metaphor for our spiritual path.
10 a.m. – Nature Immersion with Aimeé Bostwick
11 a.m. – Presentation in the Fireplace Lounge with Jaan Ferree
11:30 a.m. – Facilitated Labyrinth Walk at the outdoor labyrinth
12:30 p.m. – Lunch Buffet