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.

Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Passion Worship Nights Tour
Nov 13 all-day
Biltmore Church Arden Campus
Passion Worship Nights Tour @ Biltmore Church Arden Campus |  |  |

“Passion Worship Nights,” hitting markets coast to coast and coming to your area. The evening will feature music from Passion and teaching from Louie Giglio, with two-time GRAMMY® nominee Travis Greene.

Reclaimed Creations
Nov 13 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Reclaimed Creations is a unique sculpture exhibit created by renowned artist Sayaka Ganz. Utilizing reclaimed plastic objects, such as discarded utensils, Ganz creates amazing sculptures that visually appear unified at a distance, but are in fact separated when examined up close. Described as using a “3D impressionistic” style, Ganz’s exhibit includes installations of animals in motion, which are in rich in color and energy, to create an illusion of form.

About the Artist

Born in Yokohama, Japan, Sayaka Ganz grew up living in Japan, Brazil and Hong Kong. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in sculpture from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. A lecturer and teacher, Ganz’s work has been displayed at various institutions around the globe, including the Hermann Geiger Foundation in Cecina, Italy, the Isle Gallery in Isle of Man, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California.

My work is about perceiving harmony, even in situations that appear chaotic from the inside. When observing my sculptures up close, one might see gaps, holes and items being held on only by small points; step away, however, and the sculptures reveal the harmony created when the objects are aligned to the same general (but not identical) direction. Similarly, it is important to gain perspective by stepping back from current problems and look at the larger picture. Then one can perceive the beauty and patterns that exist.”

Yoga @ Mills River- Tuesday Series
Nov 13 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Mills River Branch

Learn proper alignment, improve strength & flexibility, & enjoy deep, guided relaxation with Lynn Edgar, an experienced yoga therapist at the 500hr level.

Contact the Mills River Library at 890-1850 for more information.

Wednesday, November 14, 2018
The Hound of the Baskervilles
Nov 14 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

This adaptation of the classic crime novel written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle featuring the detective Sherlock Holmes is a fast paced, wild ride through the fog-shrouded moors of England.  Three actors portray over fifteen characters with lightning fast precision in this highly praised thriller.

Matinees: Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00PM

Evenings: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30PM. Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00PM

Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage
2661 Greenville Highway Flat Rock, NC 28731

Reclaimed Creations
Nov 14 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Reclaimed Creations is a unique sculpture exhibit created by renowned artist Sayaka Ganz. Utilizing reclaimed plastic objects, such as discarded utensils, Ganz creates amazing sculptures that visually appear unified at a distance, but are in fact separated when examined up close. Described as using a “3D impressionistic” style, Ganz’s exhibit includes installations of animals in motion, which are in rich in color and energy, to create an illusion of form.

About the Artist

Born in Yokohama, Japan, Sayaka Ganz grew up living in Japan, Brazil and Hong Kong. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in sculpture from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. A lecturer and teacher, Ganz’s work has been displayed at various institutions around the globe, including the Hermann Geiger Foundation in Cecina, Italy, the Isle Gallery in Isle of Man, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California.

My work is about perceiving harmony, even in situations that appear chaotic from the inside. When observing my sculptures up close, one might see gaps, holes and items being held on only by small points; step away, however, and the sculptures reveal the harmony created when the objects are aligned to the same general (but not identical) direction. Similarly, it is important to gain perspective by stepping back from current problems and look at the larger picture. Then one can perceive the beauty and patterns that exist.”

Thursday, November 15, 2018
Taste of Asheville 2018
Nov 15 all-day
The Venue

Asheville’s biggest culinary event celebrates 10 years of bold flavors and palate pleasers.

The Asheville Independent Restaurant Association (AIR) hosts the 2018 Taste of
Asheville: Taste & Tunes Thursday, Nov. 15 at The Venue in downtown Asheville.

From award-winning southern cuisine to bold new worldly flavors, the Taste of Asheville
brings over 40 of Asheville’s famed independent restaurants together for an
unforgettable evening of sampling small bites, craft beverages and spirits.

This year, AIR has once again teamed up with the Asheville Buskers Collective to
highlight the city’s celebrated street musicians.

This event not only entertains the taste buds, it also is one of the largest fundraisers of
the year to support the work of the AIR, which in turn supports the 120 members of the
Asheville Independent Restaurant Association.

VIP tickets (early admission) are $100; general admission tickets are $75. All tickets may be purchased at www.airasheville.org.

The Hound of the Baskervilles
Nov 15 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

This adaptation of the classic crime novel written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle featuring the detective Sherlock Holmes is a fast paced, wild ride through the fog-shrouded moors of England.  Three actors portray over fifteen characters with lightning fast precision in this highly praised thriller.

Matinees: Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00PM

Evenings: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30PM. Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00PM

Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage
2661 Greenville Highway Flat Rock, NC 28731

The Trouble Notes
Nov 15 @ 1:00 am – 2:00 am
Reclaimed Creations
Nov 15 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Reclaimed Creations is a unique sculpture exhibit created by renowned artist Sayaka Ganz. Utilizing reclaimed plastic objects, such as discarded utensils, Ganz creates amazing sculptures that visually appear unified at a distance, but are in fact separated when examined up close. Described as using a “3D impressionistic” style, Ganz’s exhibit includes installations of animals in motion, which are in rich in color and energy, to create an illusion of form.

About the Artist

Born in Yokohama, Japan, Sayaka Ganz grew up living in Japan, Brazil and Hong Kong. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in sculpture from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. A lecturer and teacher, Ganz’s work has been displayed at various institutions around the globe, including the Hermann Geiger Foundation in Cecina, Italy, the Isle Gallery in Isle of Man, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California.

My work is about perceiving harmony, even in situations that appear chaotic from the inside. When observing my sculptures up close, one might see gaps, holes and items being held on only by small points; step away, however, and the sculptures reveal the harmony created when the objects are aligned to the same general (but not identical) direction. Similarly, it is important to gain perspective by stepping back from current problems and look at the larger picture. Then one can perceive the beauty and patterns that exist.”

Friday, November 16, 2018
The Bellamy Brothers
Nov 16 all-day
Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts
The Bellamy Brothers @ Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts

For more than 30 years, the Bellamy Brothers have been the unassuming picture of consistency in Country music, crafting honest, heartfelt songs that connect with millions of listeners around the world. Even more remarkable is the fact that they’ve remained relevant in a genre that has become increasingly enamored with style over substance and fleeting celebrity over artistic vision. Yet, Howard and David Bellamy have weathered the trends admirably, enjoying enormous success throughout their career with Numerous No 1 hits on both the Pop and Country charts. Evidence of the Brothers’ continued popularity today isn’t too hard to find. In 2009, “Let Your Love Flow” received the distinguished BMI Five Million Performance Award and was listed as one of the top songs of the century. The Bellamy Brothers’ success and longevity is a feat that few act have duplicated. What began as an unlikely duo from Darby, FL has emerged 35 years later as one of the most successful and respected groups in Country music history.

The Hound of the Baskervilles
Nov 16 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

This adaptation of the classic crime novel written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle featuring the detective Sherlock Holmes is a fast paced, wild ride through the fog-shrouded moors of England.  Three actors portray over fifteen characters with lightning fast precision in this highly praised thriller.

Matinees: Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00PM

Evenings: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30PM. Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00PM

Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage
2661 Greenville Highway Flat Rock, NC 28731

THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride
Nov 16 all-day

All Aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS! This memorable journey will take you on an incredible journey! Believe the magic this Holiday season!

Over 88,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2017 and we hope to see you in 2018! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.

THE POLAR EXPRESS begins November 9, 2018, and operates through December 31, 2018.

Ty Segall
Nov 16 @ 2:00 am – 3:00 am
Reclaimed Creations
Nov 16 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Reclaimed Creations is a unique sculpture exhibit created by renowned artist Sayaka Ganz. Utilizing reclaimed plastic objects, such as discarded utensils, Ganz creates amazing sculptures that visually appear unified at a distance, but are in fact separated when examined up close. Described as using a “3D impressionistic” style, Ganz’s exhibit includes installations of animals in motion, which are in rich in color and energy, to create an illusion of form.

About the Artist

Born in Yokohama, Japan, Sayaka Ganz grew up living in Japan, Brazil and Hong Kong. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in sculpture from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. A lecturer and teacher, Ganz’s work has been displayed at various institutions around the globe, including the Hermann Geiger Foundation in Cecina, Italy, the Isle Gallery in Isle of Man, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California.

My work is about perceiving harmony, even in situations that appear chaotic from the inside. When observing my sculptures up close, one might see gaps, holes and items being held on only by small points; step away, however, and the sculptures reveal the harmony created when the objects are aligned to the same general (but not identical) direction. Similarly, it is important to gain perspective by stepping back from current problems and look at the larger picture. Then one can perceive the beauty and patterns that exist.”

Saturday, November 17, 2018
The Hound of the Baskervilles
Nov 17 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

This adaptation of the classic crime novel written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle featuring the detective Sherlock Holmes is a fast paced, wild ride through the fog-shrouded moors of England.  Three actors portray over fifteen characters with lightning fast precision in this highly praised thriller.

Matinees: Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00PM

Evenings: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30PM. Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00PM

Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage
2661 Greenville Highway Flat Rock, NC 28731

THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride
Nov 17 all-day

All Aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS! This memorable journey will take you on an incredible journey! Believe the magic this Holiday season!

Over 88,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2017 and we hope to see you in 2018! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.

THE POLAR EXPRESS begins November 9, 2018, and operates through December 31, 2018.

Warren Wilson Farm Meat and Craft Sale
Nov 17 all-day
Warren Wilson Farm Granary

Hey y’all!

It’s time again for our annual Fall Meat Sale! The first pick-up date is November 17th.

You can access our pre-order form link here:
https://www.warren-wilson.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Fall-Order-form-2018.pdf

The Fall Meat Sale gives you the opportunity to purchase our meats in bulk for a discount! We will be offering our usual grass-fed beef, grass-fed lamb, and pork packages. All of our meat is raised without growth promotants or antibiotics, and is grazed on pesticide and herbicide free pasture.

NEW THIS YEAR! We’re so excited to introduce a SALUMI SAMPLER this year! This package includes one of each of our dry-cured products, a hot sopressata, a sweet sopressata, and a spanish-style dry cured chorizo. This package is available for pre-order for $30, a savings of 10% . Salumi will also be available separately at our retail area at the sale.
We will also be offering LEAF LARD for the first time ever! Leaf Lard will be available in a quart sized container at the retail counter at the sale. Leaf Lard offers you the chance to get your cooking fat from a truly local source, as opposed to olive oil from California or canola oil from the midwest. It is flavorless and has a high smoke point, and will be chock full of Omega-3’s because it comes from pastured pork.

At the sale, we will also be selling retail items by the pound. These products will include our steaks, roasts, ground beef, lamb, ground pork, breakfast sausage, link sausages, and organs. You can access our retail price list here:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1LTA5XqqwXJYToldURfk2vsH1fRUihitXRHhqYVBMZ5c/edit?usp=sharing

Additionally, we will be joined by the Warren Wilson Garden, Herb, Horse, and Craft Crews, who will all be selling their produce and wares. Come prepared to get all of your veggie and craft needs!

There will be samples, wagon-rides, and live music, so be sure to come out and bring the whole family!

Please feel free to email us at [email protected] or call us at 828-771-3014 with any questions or concerns.

See our event on Facebook event link here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1126144904206405/

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Reclaimed Creations
Nov 17 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Reclaimed Creations is a unique sculpture exhibit created by renowned artist Sayaka Ganz. Utilizing reclaimed plastic objects, such as discarded utensils, Ganz creates amazing sculptures that visually appear unified at a distance, but are in fact separated when examined up close. Described as using a “3D impressionistic” style, Ganz’s exhibit includes installations of animals in motion, which are in rich in color and energy, to create an illusion of form.

About the Artist

Born in Yokohama, Japan, Sayaka Ganz grew up living in Japan, Brazil and Hong Kong. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in sculpture from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. A lecturer and teacher, Ganz’s work has been displayed at various institutions around the globe, including the Hermann Geiger Foundation in Cecina, Italy, the Isle Gallery in Isle of Man, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California.

My work is about perceiving harmony, even in situations that appear chaotic from the inside. When observing my sculptures up close, one might see gaps, holes and items being held on only by small points; step away, however, and the sculptures reveal the harmony created when the objects are aligned to the same general (but not identical) direction. Similarly, it is important to gain perspective by stepping back from current problems and look at the larger picture. Then one can perceive the beauty and patterns that exist.”

Christmas Ornament Craft Show
Nov 17 @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Burnsville Town Center

The annual Christmas Ornament Craft Show is here!
Featuring one of a kind gift items all 100% handmade by local crafters and artisans. Shop items such as paintings, quilted sheep, teddy bears, wooden bowls, stained glass, painted signs, glass ornaments, beeswax candles, baked goods and much more!

Free Admission, located at the Burnsville Town Center from 9am-2pm.

If you are interested in participating contact Christy Edwards at (828) 208-6975 or email at [email protected]. Booth spaces are $50 each.
Venue info at burnsvilletowncenter.com

https://www.facebook.com/events/1767170620064681/

Marshall Handmade Market
Nov 17 @ 10:00 am – Nov 18 @ 5:00 pm
Marshall High Studios

The Marshall Handmade Market is held in the Marshall High Studios, a charming 1920’s high school nestled on an island in the French Broad River, 25 minutes north of Asheville. The sunny auditorium is filled with some of the most talented makers in Western North Carolina, and the resident artists of Marshall High spruce up the classrooms-turned-studios and open their doors to share their process and art with visitors.

You’ll find painters, potters, weavers, blacksmiths and leather workers, to name a few, along with delectable treats from one of Asheville’s favorite food trucks and OWL Bakery. Enjoy a delightful day of handcrafted holiday shopping, a stroll around the island, and a wander through historic downtown Marshall, NC.

Christmas Pet Photos w/ Santa
Nov 17 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Purrrfect Bark

Join us with Kevin Work from Kevin Work Photography for 2018 Holiday & Christmas photos. We’ll get these done early this year so you can use the files for Christmas cards and things to mail to family & friends.

We’ll have more information available soon regarding prices, packages, information & appointments. We’ll have a better Santa than last year, promise!

For 2018 we’ll run 15 minute sessions for up to 3 animals. For 4+ animals we’ll require 2 sessions. You’ll pay one price, and get a package of items for that price. If you’re interested in photos WITH your pets, let us know. We’ll have an option to make a note on your session order.

Check by around October 1st for more information. Check your emails mid-October as well! Session bookings go live Oct 13th at 8am.

https://www.facebook.com/events/266291797307063/

Lights Before Christmas at Riverbanks Zoo
Nov 17 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Riverbanks Zoo
Bring the kids and the camera and see why Lights Before Christmas has continued as a family tradition for 30 years!

  • Nearly one million twinkling lights
  • Countless decorative images
  • Holly Jolly Christmas Parade
  • Animated Story Tree
  • Animal Characters
  • Nightly visits with Santa (start at 6:00PM through December 23)
  • Warm memories and holiday cheer around the Jingle Bell Bonfire
  • Hot cocoa, s’mores and other festive foods available for purchase

While you may spot a few night owls during Lights, most of our residents will be off-exhibit to catch some zzz’s.

Sunday, November 18, 2018
THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride
Nov 18 all-day

All Aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS! This memorable journey will take you on an incredible journey! Believe the magic this Holiday season!

Over 88,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2017 and we hope to see you in 2018! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.

THE POLAR EXPRESS begins November 9, 2018, and operates through December 31, 2018.

The Stray Birds
Nov 18 @ 2:00 am – 3:00 am
Reclaimed Creations
Nov 18 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Reclaimed Creations is a unique sculpture exhibit created by renowned artist Sayaka Ganz. Utilizing reclaimed plastic objects, such as discarded utensils, Ganz creates amazing sculptures that visually appear unified at a distance, but are in fact separated when examined up close. Described as using a “3D impressionistic” style, Ganz’s exhibit includes installations of animals in motion, which are in rich in color and energy, to create an illusion of form.

About the Artist

Born in Yokohama, Japan, Sayaka Ganz grew up living in Japan, Brazil and Hong Kong. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in sculpture from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. A lecturer and teacher, Ganz’s work has been displayed at various institutions around the globe, including the Hermann Geiger Foundation in Cecina, Italy, the Isle Gallery in Isle of Man, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California.

My work is about perceiving harmony, even in situations that appear chaotic from the inside. When observing my sculptures up close, one might see gaps, holes and items being held on only by small points; step away, however, and the sculptures reveal the harmony created when the objects are aligned to the same general (but not identical) direction. Similarly, it is important to gain perspective by stepping back from current problems and look at the larger picture. Then one can perceive the beauty and patterns that exist.”

Christmas Parade
Nov 18 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Downtown Marion NC

Sunday, November 18 – Christmas Parade
3:00 pm, Main Street, Downtown Marion. For information, 828-652-2215
All are required to pre-register and obtain a copy of the parade guidelines. All entries must be fully decorated. You may pick up your registration number by coming by the Marion Business Association office at the Marion Depot. There is no charge to register. Registration November 1st, 2018

https://www.facebook.com/events/214176979128308/

Lights Before Christmas at Riverbanks Zoo
Nov 18 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Riverbanks Zoo
Bring the kids and the camera and see why Lights Before Christmas has continued as a family tradition for 30 years!

  • Nearly one million twinkling lights
  • Countless decorative images
  • Holly Jolly Christmas Parade
  • Animated Story Tree
  • Animal Characters
  • Nightly visits with Santa (start at 6:00PM through December 23)
  • Warm memories and holiday cheer around the Jingle Bell Bonfire
  • Hot cocoa, s’mores and other festive foods available for purchase

While you may spot a few night owls during Lights, most of our residents will be off-exhibit to catch some zzz’s.

Monday, November 19, 2018
THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride
Nov 19 all-day

All Aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS! This memorable journey will take you on an incredible journey! Believe the magic this Holiday season!

Over 88,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2017 and we hope to see you in 2018! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.

THE POLAR EXPRESS begins November 9, 2018, and operates through December 31, 2018.

Reclaimed Creations
Nov 19 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Reclaimed Creations is a unique sculpture exhibit created by renowned artist Sayaka Ganz. Utilizing reclaimed plastic objects, such as discarded utensils, Ganz creates amazing sculptures that visually appear unified at a distance, but are in fact separated when examined up close. Described as using a “3D impressionistic” style, Ganz’s exhibit includes installations of animals in motion, which are in rich in color and energy, to create an illusion of form.

About the Artist

Born in Yokohama, Japan, Sayaka Ganz grew up living in Japan, Brazil and Hong Kong. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in sculpture from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. A lecturer and teacher, Ganz’s work has been displayed at various institutions around the globe, including the Hermann Geiger Foundation in Cecina, Italy, the Isle Gallery in Isle of Man, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California.

My work is about perceiving harmony, even in situations that appear chaotic from the inside. When observing my sculptures up close, one might see gaps, holes and items being held on only by small points; step away, however, and the sculptures reveal the harmony created when the objects are aligned to the same general (but not identical) direction. Similarly, it is important to gain perspective by stepping back from current problems and look at the larger picture. Then one can perceive the beauty and patterns that exist.”

Lights Before Christmas at Riverbanks Zoo
Nov 19 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Riverbanks Zoo
Bring the kids and the camera and see why Lights Before Christmas has continued as a family tradition for 30 years!

  • Nearly one million twinkling lights
  • Countless decorative images
  • Holly Jolly Christmas Parade
  • Animated Story Tree
  • Animal Characters
  • Nightly visits with Santa (start at 6:00PM through December 23)
  • Warm memories and holiday cheer around the Jingle Bell Bonfire
  • Hot cocoa, s’mores and other festive foods available for purchase

While you may spot a few night owls during Lights, most of our residents will be off-exhibit to catch some zzz’s.