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, November 14, 2018
Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration (November)
Nov 14 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Biltmore

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Sunday, January 6, 2019 (daily)

*Included with estate admission.
*Does not include “Candlelight Christmas Evenings”

Experience the holidays wreathed with the wonder of Biltmore. Our celebration presents Christmas on a grand scale with more than 55 trees decorated by our talented staff, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Festive menus in our restaurants and holiday wine tastings make for a memorable visit.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/148458802536575/?event_time_id=247333659315755

Candlelight Christmas Evenings (November)
Nov 14 @ 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Biltmore

Candlelight Christmas Evenings*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Saturday, January 5, 2019 (Select Dates)

*Check website for availability/dates
*By reservation only.
*Pricing varies by date.

Candlelight, firelight, and live music bring holiday warmth to the extravagant holiday décor of Biltmore House, creating an evening to remember. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. Advance reservations are required for evening visits.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/2014125145534975/?event_time_id=2167409600206528

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.

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration (November)
Nov 15 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Biltmore

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Sunday, January 6, 2019 (daily)

*Included with estate admission.
*Does not include “Candlelight Christmas Evenings”

Experience the holidays wreathed with the wonder of Biltmore. Our celebration presents Christmas on a grand scale with more than 55 trees decorated by our talented staff, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Festive menus in our restaurants and holiday wine tastings make for a memorable visit.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/148458802536575/?event_time_id=247333715982416

Candlelight Christmas Evenings (November)
Nov 15 @ 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Biltmore

Candlelight Christmas Evenings*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Saturday, January 5, 2019 (Select Dates)

*Check website for availability/dates
*By reservation only.
*Pricing varies by date.

Candlelight, firelight, and live music bring holiday warmth to the extravagant holiday décor of Biltmore House, creating an evening to remember. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. Advance reservations are required for evening visits.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/2014125145534975/?event_time_id=2167409553539866

Friday, November 16, 2018
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.

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration (November)
Nov 16 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Biltmore

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Sunday, January 6, 2019 (daily)

*Included with estate admission.
*Does not include “Candlelight Christmas Evenings”

Experience the holidays wreathed with the wonder of Biltmore. Our celebration presents Christmas on a grand scale with more than 55 trees decorated by our talented staff, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Festive menus in our restaurants and holiday wine tastings make for a memorable visit.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/148458802536575/?event_time_id=247333735982414

Candlelight Christmas Evenings (November)
Nov 16 @ 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Biltmore

Candlelight Christmas Evenings*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Saturday, January 5, 2019 (Select Dates)

*Check website for availability/dates
*By reservation only.
*Pricing varies by date.

Candlelight, firelight, and live music bring holiday warmth to the extravagant holiday décor of Biltmore House, creating an evening to remember. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. Advance reservations are required for evening visits.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/2014125145534975/?event_time_id=2167409560206532

The Grinch-Tree Painting Party
Nov 16 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fired Up Creative Lounge

“As the Grinch took the tree, as he started to shove, he heard a small sound like the coo of a dove. He turned around fast, and he saw a small Who…”

*This event is perfect for children, but is ALL AGES! (All the Whos in Whoville are welcome.)*

The Grinch is back! But this time, we’ll make sure there are too many trees for him to steal before Christmas! Send in your own little “Who” to paint a tree of their very own to light up the house for the holidays, and pass down everyone’s favorite story to a new generation! These trees are the perfect size for small, “Who” hands and can be painted however they see fit! Let your child create their own holiday masterpiece for all to remember for years to come. He’s a mean one, that Mr. Grinch, but his heart will grow three sizes after seeing your creations!

*PLEASE purchase tickets on our website! Facebook RSVP does not save your spot!*
Tickets are $40 and include: ONE “Grinch-y” Light Up Tree and admission for ONE child to the painting party!

We will be serving cookies and hot chocolate after the trees are finished, so please let us know of any food allergies ahead of time!

This is a drop off event, as seating is limited. If you would like to attend the party with your child, please call (828) 253-8181 or message us on Facebook! No refunds, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance can be used as store credit at Fired Up!

https://www.facebook.com/events/773428436344990/

Ol’ Timey Christmas Gospel Music Sing Along
Nov 16 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Leicester Community Center

Every third Friday

We will be singing mostly ol’ timey hymns along with a few new ones.

This is a family event. People of all ages and from all denominations are welcome!

https://www.facebook.com/events/444290736095412/

Light The Way 5K
Nov 16 @ 11:18 pm – Nov 17 @ 12:30 am
Dollywood

Dollywood is proud to be hosting the 7th annual Light The Way 5K on Friday, Nov. 16. Participants are treated to a unique race course decorated with more than five million Christmas lights, which will illuminate the path throughout the park.

This year’s course is a CERTIFIED 5K distance, and there is a fun walk for those who just want to stroll through the course.

It all benefits two great charities – Share It Forward and Keep Sevier Beautiful.

For more info, please refer here: http://www.lighttheway5k.net/

https://www.facebook.com/events/300606360536684/

Saturday, November 17, 2018
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!

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration (November)
Nov 17 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Biltmore

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Sunday, January 6, 2019 (daily)

*Included with estate admission.
*Does not include “Candlelight Christmas Evenings”

Experience the holidays wreathed with the wonder of Biltmore. Our celebration presents Christmas on a grand scale with more than 55 trees decorated by our talented staff, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Festive menus in our restaurants and holiday wine tastings make for a memorable visit.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/148458802536575/?event_time_id=148458819203240

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.

Santa’s Arrival at Asheville Outlets!
Nov 17 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Santa’s Arrival at Asheville Outlets!

SmartStop Self Storage, iHeart Radio-Asheville and Paramount KIA of Asheville are pleased to team up with Asheville Outlets (ShopAshevilleOutlets.com) to welcome Santa Saturday, November 17th at 5 p.m. at the center! The Enka-Candler Fire Department and Paramount KIA of Asheville will lead Santa’s parade around the center to holiday tunes by the Enka High School Band, then officially light the 24-foot tree located in front of Forever 21. Music, crafts, balloon art and strolling magic will add to the evening’s festivities. The tree lighting ceremony is sponsored by SmartStop Self Storage.

Immediately following the tree lighting, Santa will be available for FREE photos (daily through Christmas Eve). FREE Santa photos are sponsored by Great Beginnings Great Smiles. The Santa set is sponsored by The North Carolina Arboretum Winter Lights and is in the Asheville Outlets food court.

Candlelight Christmas Evenings (November)
Nov 17 @ 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Biltmore

Candlelight Christmas Evenings*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Saturday, January 5, 2019 (Select Dates)

*Check website for availability/dates
*By reservation only.
*Pricing varies by date.

Candlelight, firelight, and live music bring holiday warmth to the extravagant holiday décor of Biltmore House, creating an evening to remember. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. Advance reservations are required for evening visits.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/2014125145534975/?event_time_id=2014125162201640

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.

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration (November)
Nov 18 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Biltmore

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Sunday, January 6, 2019 (daily)

*Included with estate admission.
*Does not include “Candlelight Christmas Evenings”

Experience the holidays wreathed with the wonder of Biltmore. Our celebration presents Christmas on a grand scale with more than 55 trees decorated by our talented staff, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Festive menus in our restaurants and holiday wine tastings make for a memorable visit.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/148458802536575/?event_time_id=247333675982420

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.

Candlelight Christmas Evenings (November)
Nov 18 @ 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Biltmore

Candlelight Christmas Evenings*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Saturday, January 5, 2019 (Select Dates)

*Check website for availability/dates
*By reservation only.
*Pricing varies by date.

Candlelight, firelight, and live music bring holiday warmth to the extravagant holiday décor of Biltmore House, creating an evening to remember. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. Advance reservations are required for evening visits.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/2014125145534975/?event_time_id=2167409550206533

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.

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration (November)
Nov 19 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Biltmore

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Sunday, January 6, 2019 (daily)

*Included with estate admission.
*Does not include “Candlelight Christmas Evenings”

Experience the holidays wreathed with the wonder of Biltmore. Our celebration presents Christmas on a grand scale with more than 55 trees decorated by our talented staff, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Festive menus in our restaurants and holiday wine tastings make for a memorable visit.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/148458802536575/?event_time_id=247333662649088

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.

Candlelight Christmas Evenings (November)
Nov 19 @ 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Biltmore

Candlelight Christmas Evenings*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Saturday, January 5, 2019 (Select Dates)

*Check website for availability/dates
*By reservation only.
*Pricing varies by date.

Candlelight, firelight, and live music bring holiday warmth to the extravagant holiday décor of Biltmore House, creating an evening to remember. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. Advance reservations are required for evening visits.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/2014125145534975/?event_time_id=2167409536873201

Tuesday, November 20, 2018
THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride
Nov 20 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.