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.
Sit back if you dare as we illuminate Asheville’s darkest history with astonishing stories of spirits & spies, ghosts & goblins, hauntings & hoodlums and mountain-made murder & mayhem.
Hear stories of . . .
The legendary PINK LADY at the Grove Park Inn
The GHOST of Church Street
The 1936 UNSOLVED MURDER that shook Asheville
The CHILD SPIRITS at the haunted hospital
The architect walled into his own church!
The KILLING SPREE of 1906
NAZI AGENTS based in Asheville
ARSON at hospital that claimed Zelda Fitzgerald
Tour Duration: Approximately 75 minutes
Departure Point: Pack’s Tavern, 20 South Spruce Street in Downtown Asheville
Parking: Free first-come-first served parking is available after 5PM at a City of Asheville parking lot located 1/2 block south of Pack’s Tavern on Marjorie Street. Paid parking is available approximately 1 block north of Pack’s Tavern at 164 College Street.
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED! “Walk-ups” without reservations will be accommodated on a space available basis.
We Hope you’ll be possessed to join us!
Journey with us to Narnia, the iconic land of mystery and magic as we present The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The classic coming-of-age story by C.S. Lewis begins on a rainy afternoon when four children discover a wardrobe that transports them to this magical world. With every step they take into this new, fantastical land, the children must learn the difference between good and evil and how to stand up for what is right. Will the strength of goodness prevail in the face of cold, heartless evil? Find out in this fantasy adventure for the whole family!
Director: Zach Eden When the Soady clan reunites for the opening day of deer season at the family’s Upper Peninsula camp, thirty-five year old Reuben Soady brings with him the infamous reputation of being the oldest Soady in the history of the Soadys never to bag a buck. In the hunting story to beat all hunting stories, ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT spins a hilarious tale of humor, horror and heart as Reuben goes to any and all lengths to remove himself from the wrong end of the family record book. Not included in Season Ticket Subscriptions
a world premiere by honor moor
The Mountain Political Action Committee has to meet again to protect Asheville – In the Nick of Time! This group of local native Democrats will have to take matters into their own hands in order to stop threats of facism. Per usual, their mountain, southern, un-orthodox ways of handling a tough situation is the only way to stop it from happening. Fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the hilarity of the true south that is often hidden in plain sight in Asheville. Run, don’t walk, and get your ticket for what is becoming a local favorite!
Jack and Annie are two siblings who have found a magic tree house filled with books! As they read a book about knights and the middle ages, Annie is intrigued by the Black Knight and the mysterious quest one must successfully complete before becoming a knight. When she wishes to visit the castle in the book, the siblings are whisked away to medieval times. They set off to learn more about the Black Knight and his quest, experiencing a grand medieval feast, escaping through secret tunnels and dancing with enchanted suits of armor, all in an effort to find their way back home.
Magic Tree House: The Knight at Dawn KIDS is an adaptation of the second of Mary Pope Osborne’s award-winning fantasy adventure books from the Magic Tree House book series, which has sold more than 100 million copies and is available in more than 100 countries around the world.
Presented by students ages 8-12 in our Tanglewood Youth Production Class.
“Mixed Fandango,” a new play exploring the unique but universal aspects of romantic love. Three couples confront family, relationships, and loss in the days before Thanksgiving; but things get complicated as this structurally unique play mixes and matches lovers!
Our Senior class will bring to life their version of a fantasy role-playing game based on the work of acclaimed young playwright Qui Nguyen. We are first introduced to Agnes Evans as she prepares to leave the only home she has known. A home where she is haunted by the death of her teenage sister, Tilly, who she realizes she never really knew. As she packs, Agnes comes across Tilly’s notebook on Dungeons & Dragons where she enters the imaginary world Tilly created as a refuge and begins her own journey of self discovery. Homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and lots of 90s pop culture are presented as a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.
Most suitable for ages 16 and up
Performed in 35below
Ellipsis Theatre Company (Lobby Hero, Oleanna, The Mercy Seat) specializes in producing thought-provoking contemporary American drama. They return to 35below with The God of Hell, which asks the question; is there a state religion in America, and if so what is it? Written by Sam Shepard; directed by David Sebren.
The Asheville Marathon began 8 years ago with only a marathon option, which sold out quickly in its first year, and again the next year. A nationwide interest in half marathons was becoming popular, so for the 3rd year a half marathon option was added. In the 4th year, the event expanded to two days of races and a half marathon on each day. To add a twist in the 5th year the Backyard to Vineyard Challenge was created, where participants race in the Saturday half and Sunday full. The challenge was very popular and for the 6th anniversary, Backyard to Backyard Challenge was added, where participants run both the Saturday half and the Sunday half. Now in its 8th year both days of races, including the challenges, are expected to be sold out, with 3,100 participants.
The Asheville Marathon & Half at Biltmore Estate is held on and run entirely on the grounds of the Biltmore Estate, where runners will wind through paved and packed dirt roads to see hardwood forest, meadows, gardens, and extraordinary views of the Biltmore House and Estate. This is the original Asheville Marathon and first race of its kind to come to Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina; don’t miss out on being part of history at Biltmore Estate.
For more information about the Asheville Marathon & Half at Biltmore Estate, visit
https://ashevillemarathon.com/. Follow the race on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
From the Academy Award-winning team of Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz comes a lushly scored retelling of Victor Hugo’s epic story of love, acceptance and what it means to be a hero. Based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame showcases the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs by Menken and Schwartz. Peter Parnell’s new book embraces story theatre and features verbatim passages from Hugo’s gothic novel. The musical begins as the bells of Notre Dame sound through the famed cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer who longs to be “Out There,” observes all of Paris reveling in the Feast of Fools. Held captive by his devious caretaker, the archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo, he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be treated cruelly by all but the beautiful gypsy, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one captivated by her free spirit, though- the handsome Captain Phoebus and Frollo are equally enthralled. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo embarks on a mission to destroy the gypsies- and it’s up to Quasimodo to save them all.
A sweeping score and powerful story make The Hunchback of Notre Dame an instant classic. Audiences will be swept away by the magic of this truly unforgettable musical. A full two-act live stage show.
Presented by the Overlook Theatre Company
Ticket Prices: $12 Student, $17 Adult
Join us for games, food, entertainment, pony rides and more at our inaugural Fall Festival! Free admission. Pay for activities.
Book by Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty
Music by Stephen Flaherty
Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens
Co-conceived by Eric Idle
Based on the works of Dr. Seuss
Directed by Shelia Sumpter
The Performing Arts Center Main Stage
Join us as we bring the magical world of Dr. Seuss to life in this hit Broadway Musical featuring our talented KIDS AT HART.
Join us in gathering at the grounds of Relia’s Garden on the campus of Nantahala Outdoor Center as we celebrate the life of Aurelia Kennedy.
Bring stories and remembrances of Aurelia and a Thanksgiving dish to share. Nantahala Outdoor Center will provide a main course featuring turkey and dressing.
Please RSVP here if you are attending so that NOC may plan the meal and space accordingly. If you would like to make a donation honoring Aurelia and further her life’s mission, donations may be made through the North Carolina Community Foundation for the Kennedy Endowment Fund. From this page you may search for and give to the Kennedy Endowment Fund.
Donation checks may be sent to:
The North Carolina Community Foundation
3737 Glenwood Avenue
Suite 460
Raleigh, NC 27612
*Please indicate that contributions are for the Kennedy Endowment Fund, #000386. All contributions are tax deductible.
Recipient organizations of the Kennedy Endowment Fund for 2019 in order of magnitude from $5,000 to $1,000 were:
- Clinic Nepal
- SOS Children’s Villages
- Medic Force
- Adventure Amputee Camp
- Swain County New Century Scholars
- American Red Cross
- IPAS
Journey with us to Narnia, the iconic land of mystery and magic as we present The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The classic coming-of-age story by C.S. Lewis begins on a rainy afternoon when four children discover a wardrobe that transports them to this magical world. With every step they take into this new, fantastical land, the children must learn the difference between good and evil and how to stand up for what is right. Will the strength of goodness prevail in the face of cold, heartless evil? Find out in this fantasy adventure for the whole family!
Jack and Annie are two siblings who have found a magic tree house filled with books! As they read a book about knights and the middle ages, Annie is intrigued by the Black Knight and the mysterious quest one must successfully complete before becoming a knight. When she wishes to visit the castle in the book, the siblings are whisked away to medieval times. They set off to learn more about the Black Knight and his quest, experiencing a grand medieval feast, escaping through secret tunnels and dancing with enchanted suits of armor, all in an effort to find their way back home.
Magic Tree House: The Knight at Dawn KIDS is an adaptation of the second of Mary Pope Osborne’s award-winning fantasy adventure books from the Magic Tree House book series, which has sold more than 100 million copies and is available in more than 100 countries around the world.
Presented by students ages 8-12 in our Tanglewood Youth Production Class.
Journey with us to Narnia, the iconic land of mystery and magic as we present The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The classic coming-of-age story by C.S. Lewis begins on a rainy afternoon when four children discover a wardrobe that transports them to this magical world. With every step they take into this new, fantastical land, the children must learn the difference between good and evil and how to stand up for what is right. Will the strength of goodness prevail in the face of cold, heartless evil? Find out in this fantasy adventure for the whole family!
Director: Zach Eden When the Soady clan reunites for the opening day of deer season at the family’s Upper Peninsula camp, thirty-five year old Reuben Soady brings with him the infamous reputation of being the oldest Soady in the history of the Soadys never to bag a buck. In the hunting story to beat all hunting stories, ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT spins a hilarious tale of humor, horror and heart as Reuben goes to any and all lengths to remove himself from the wrong end of the family record book. Not included in Season Ticket Subscriptions
a world premiere by honor moor
The Mountain Political Action Committee has to meet again to protect Asheville – In the Nick of Time! This group of local native Democrats will have to take matters into their own hands in order to stop threats of facism. Per usual, their mountain, southern, un-orthodox ways of handling a tough situation is the only way to stop it from happening. Fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the hilarity of the true south that is often hidden in plain sight in Asheville. Run, don’t walk, and get your ticket for what is becoming a local favorite!
Join us to view one of the biggest meteor showers of the year at the farm with local astronomer and author Stephan Martin. While we’re enjoying the meteor show, we’ll also explore some of the stars, constellations, and other astronomical treasures of the fall night sky. All ages are welcome and no background in astronomy or science is required.
“Mixed Fandango,” a new play exploring the unique but universal aspects of romantic love. Three couples confront family, relationships, and loss in the days before Thanksgiving; but things get complicated as this structurally unique play mixes and matches lovers!
Performed in 35below
Ellipsis Theatre Company (Lobby Hero, Oleanna, The Mercy Seat) specializes in producing thought-provoking contemporary American drama. They return to 35below with The God of Hell, which asks the question; is there a state religion in America, and if so what is it? Written by Sam Shepard; directed by David Sebren.
Do you love cars? If so, then join us at Asheville Outlets (ShopAshevilleOutlets.com) for Cruise ‘In, a monthly car show featuring an exciting display of cars, trucks, motorcycles and special interest vehicles behind the Food Court on Sundays, May 19, June 16, July 21, August 18, September 15, October 20 and November 17, 2019 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cruise ‘In is free to car owners and spectators.
Director: Zach Eden When the Soady clan reunites for the opening day of deer season at the family’s Upper Peninsula camp, thirty-five year old Reuben Soady brings with him the infamous reputation of being the oldest Soady in the history of the Soadys never to bag a buck. In the hunting story to beat all hunting stories, ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT spins a hilarious tale of humor, horror and heart as Reuben goes to any and all lengths to remove himself from the wrong end of the family record book. Not included in Season Ticket Subscriptions
Book by Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty
Music by Stephen Flaherty
Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens
Co-conceived by Eric Idle
Based on the works of Dr. Seuss
Directed by Shelia Sumpter
The Performing Arts Center Main Stage
Join us as we bring the magical world of Dr. Seuss to life in this hit Broadway Musical featuring our talented KIDS AT HART.
Journey with us to Narnia, the iconic land of mystery and magic as we present The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The classic coming-of-age story by C.S. Lewis begins on a rainy afternoon when four children discover a wardrobe that transports them to this magical world. With every step they take into this new, fantastical land, the children must learn the difference between good and evil and how to stand up for what is right. Will the strength of goodness prevail in the face of cold, heartless evil? Find out in this fantasy adventure for the whole family!
Jack and Annie are two siblings who have found a magic tree house filled with books! As they read a book about knights and the middle ages, Annie is intrigued by the Black Knight and the mysterious quest one must successfully complete before becoming a knight. When she wishes to visit the castle in the book, the siblings are whisked away to medieval times. They set off to learn more about the Black Knight and his quest, experiencing a grand medieval feast, escaping through secret tunnels and dancing with enchanted suits of armor, all in an effort to find their way back home.
Magic Tree House: The Knight at Dawn KIDS is an adaptation of the second of Mary Pope Osborne’s award-winning fantasy adventure books from the Magic Tree House book series, which has sold more than 100 million copies and is available in more than 100 countries around the world.
Presented by students ages 8-12 in our Tanglewood Youth Production Class.
Performed in 35below
Ellipsis Theatre Company (Lobby Hero, Oleanna, The Mercy Seat) specializes in producing thought-provoking contemporary American drama. They return to 35below with The God of Hell, which asks the question; is there a state religion in America, and if so what is it? Written by Sam Shepard; directed by David Sebren.
a world premiere by honor moor
The Mountain Political Action Committee has to meet again to protect Asheville – In the Nick of Time! This group of local native Democrats will have to take matters into their own hands in order to stop threats of facism. Per usual, their mountain, southern, un-orthodox ways of handling a tough situation is the only way to stop it from happening. Fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the hilarity of the true south that is often hidden in plain sight in Asheville. Run, don’t walk, and get your ticket for what is becoming a local favorite!
Asheville’s monthly all queer stand up comedy showcase! This months headliner is Bobby Higley
“Bobby Higley turns anxiety, depression, and PTSD into comedy Gold.” – Stranger Magazine
Bobby Higley is wild eyed, sassy, gay-ex-Mormon, middle child of 7. Fashionable, dark, & deeply irreverent. Picture abused gender-bent Martha Stuart. Played by a Sassy Stoner Twink, post-prison.
Bobby’s been a participant of both the Midwest and Portland Queer Comedy Festivals, Mutiny Radio Comedy Festival, & the Altercations festival in Austin.
He regularly features & headlines in the PNW & has opened for Sandra Valls, Patti Harrison, Matteo Lane, Derek Sheen, Sabrina Jalees, & BenDeLaCreme. He also runs the successful traveling Kink/Consent comedy show “Safeword” & Gutter Twink Productions.
Bobby is also a recurring personality on Cut Casting, and his Youtube videos have gotten over 34 million views.
Featuring Jenn Snyder
Hosted by Moira Goree
Tickets $7 advance, $10 day of; visit www.eventbrite.com/e/queer-comedy-party-ft-bobby-higley-tickets-71315038199.