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.

Friday, June 26, 2020
Official Statement: Asheville Tourists
Jun 26 all-day
Online
Paddle Grapple
Jun 26 @ 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Tsali Recreation Area

Registration Opens June 2020

 

Age: All Ages

Join us Saturday, August 1st at the Tsali Recreational Area for the 2020 Paddle Grapple, a 3 or 6 mile flatwater kayak, canoe and SUP race on beautiful Fontana Lake, which is nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, just a few miles from the Nantahala Outdoor Center. This popular event will take participants on a beautiful loop on Fontana Lake that will give you incredible views of the highest peaks in the National Park. Come enjoy the cool water, and hot competition at the 2020 Paddle Grapple.

Event Information

Distance: 3 or 6 miles
Course Map: Click HERE
For more information please visit Nantahala Racing Club’s Website.

Pre-Registration: Online Registration will open June 15, 2020 and close at 11:59AM on Wednesday, July 29th. Cost is $40 for each class.
Onsite Registration: A $10 Late Fee applies. You may register from 8-9:30AM at the NRC Event Tent next to the boat ramp.

2020 Schedule of Events | Tsali Recreation Area Boat Ramp

Saturday, August 1st Time
Onsite Registration 8-9:30AM
Vendor Demos 9AM
Competitor’s Meeting 9:30AM
Race START 10AM
Awards Ceremony 1PM
Aston Park Tennis Center Hours
Jun 26 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Aston Park Tennis Center

A limited number of courts are open at Aston Park Tennis Center between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.  The clubhouse, including restrooms and the pro shop, will remain closed and staff will not be onsite.

Lake Julian 4th of July CANCELLED
Jun 26 @ 10:27 pm – 11:27 pm

Independence Day events across the country will not look the same this year.

Many communities have been forced to cancel their annual Fourth of July events, including most in Buncombe County. Although the fireworks display at Lake Julian Park will not take place, there are other ways to celebrate locally.

Buncombe County Recreation Services‘ parks and trails will be open, though some areas may be restricted including grills, picnic shelters, and restrooms. Access to the French Broad will be available at our seven river parks. The five outdoor pools operated by Buncombe County will also be open with new safety guidelines.

Park and pool visitors will be required to practice the Three Ws: wear a cloth face covering, wait at least six feet apart from and avoid close contact with anyone who does not live in your household, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often.

The Asheville Downtown Association will host a virtual Independence Day Celebration in partnership with the City of Asheville with support from Explore Asheville. The online concert will feature eight Asheville area bands performing at local music venues.

Follow Buncombe County Recreation on Facebook and Instagram.

Saturday, June 27, 2020
Girls on the Run of WNC Virtual 5K
Jun 27 all-day
Girls on the Run of WNC Virtual
Image

While we wish we could celebrate our girls in person this season, we will use the Girls on the Run of WNC VIRTUAL 5K run and walk as an opportunity to join together virtually to support the unstoppable strength, resiliency, and power of every girl! Our virtual 5K will be held from Saturday, June 20th to Saturday, June 27th. Here are a few ways you can participate:

  • Complete a 5K (3.1 miles) or another distance of your choosing in your neighborhood, on a treadmill, or somewhere that is safe. Don’t worry about how fast or how far you go, as we teach our girls, it is all about finding your happy pace and to keep moving forward!
  • No interest in running or walking the 5K? No problem! Complete a GOTR Physical Activity Card (details coming soon!). These cards include fun physical activity challenges that celebrate the joy of movement and highlight some of the important lessons that girls learn throughout our program. Select whichever card appeals to you and aim to complete as many of the activities you can.

Participation in the Virtual 5K is FREE. However, you can donate to Girls on the Run during registration to help support girls in our community or you can create your own fundraising page (see Become a Fundraiser tab). All proceeds from the event will benefit the Girls on the Run of WNC scholarship fund, which aims to make the program accessible to all girls, regardless of their ability to pay the program registration fee.

WHAT IS A VIRTUAL RUN?

A virtual run is an event that can be run (or walked!) from any location you choose and any time during the open event date (Saturday, June 20th to Saturday, June 27th). It is a great way to get active and celebrate with your family, friends, or co-workers while we practice social distancing.

Walk, run, jog, indoors on a treadmill or outside in the neighborhood, a virtual run is the best way to get comfortable moving at your happy pace!

No interest in running or walking the 5K? No problem! Complete a GOTR Physical Activity Card (details coming soon!). These cards include fun physical activity challenges that celebrate the joy of movement and highlight some of the important lessons that girls learn throughout our program. Select whichever card appeals to you and aim to complete as many of the activities you can.

SHARE YOUR RESULTS AND PHOTOS!

Show your GOTR spirit from your respective event by posting pictures and videos to the Facebook Event or using #gotrwncvirtual5k #GOTRatHome #GOTRGotYourBack and tagging @gotrwnc!

Check back on our social media to see if you have been featured!

Great Beginnings + Great Smiles Girls on the Run of WNC Virtual 5K
Jun 27 all-day
Online
Image
WHAT IS A VIRTUAL RUN?

A virtual run is an event that can be run (or walked!) from any location you choose and any time during the open event date (Saturday, June 20th to Saturday, June 27th). It is a great way to get active and celebrate with your family, friends, or co-workers while we practice social distancing.

Walk, run, jog, indoors on a treadmill or outside in the neighborhood, a virtual run is the best way to get comfortable moving at your happy pace!

No interest in running or walking the 5K? No problem! Complete a GOTR Physical Activity Card (click here for a video of the movements). These cards include fun physical activity challenges that celebrate the joy of movement and highlight some of the important lessons that girls learn throughout our program. Select whichever card appeals to you and aim to complete as many of the activities you can.

SHARE YOUR RESULTS AND PHOTOS!

Show your GOTR spirit from your respective event by posting pictures and videos to the Facebook Event or using #gotrwncvirtual5k #GOTRatHome #GOTRGotYourBack and tagging @gotrwnc! Photos can be emailed to [email protected] too.

Check back on our social media to see if you have been featured!

Official Statement: Asheville Tourists
Jun 27 all-day
Online
Paddle Grapple
Jun 27 @ 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Tsali Recreation Area

Registration Opens June 2020

 

Age: All Ages

Join us Saturday, August 1st at the Tsali Recreational Area for the 2020 Paddle Grapple, a 3 or 6 mile flatwater kayak, canoe and SUP race on beautiful Fontana Lake, which is nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, just a few miles from the Nantahala Outdoor Center. This popular event will take participants on a beautiful loop on Fontana Lake that will give you incredible views of the highest peaks in the National Park. Come enjoy the cool water, and hot competition at the 2020 Paddle Grapple.

Event Information

Distance: 3 or 6 miles
Course Map: Click HERE
For more information please visit Nantahala Racing Club’s Website.

Pre-Registration: Online Registration will open June 15, 2020 and close at 11:59AM on Wednesday, July 29th. Cost is $40 for each class.
Onsite Registration: A $10 Late Fee applies. You may register from 8-9:30AM at the NRC Event Tent next to the boat ramp.

2020 Schedule of Events | Tsali Recreation Area Boat Ramp

Saturday, August 1st Time
Onsite Registration 8-9:30AM
Vendor Demos 9AM
Competitor’s Meeting 9:30AM
Race START 10AM
Awards Ceremony 1PM
Falconry at the Biltmore Estate
Jun 27 @ 9:00 am
Biltmore Estate

Falconry

Discover the ancient art of falconry on Biltmore’s historic grounds. Learn how to handle a trained hawk or falcon, then experience the inimitable thrill of a raptor flying to and landing upon your gloved hand. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to interact with one of these majestic birds of prey.

Two-guest minimum, Four-guest maximum

*Price is in addition to estate admission and subject to change. Must be 8 years of age or older to participate. Guests under 17 years of age must be accompanied by a paying adult. Guests encouraged to dress for the weather and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
Passholders and guests of The Inn and Village Hotel receive a 10% discount.

Cost$125 per person plus tax
Aston Park Tennis Center Hours
Jun 27 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Aston Park Tennis Center

A limited number of courts are open at Aston Park Tennis Center between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.  The clubhouse, including restrooms and the pro shop, will remain closed and staff will not be onsite.

Falconry at the Biltmore Estate
Jun 27 @ 12:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Falconry

Discover the ancient art of falconry on Biltmore’s historic grounds. Learn how to handle a trained hawk or falcon, then experience the inimitable thrill of a raptor flying to and landing upon your gloved hand. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to interact with one of these majestic birds of prey.

Two-guest minimum, Four-guest maximum

*Price is in addition to estate admission and subject to change. Must be 8 years of age or older to participate. Guests under 17 years of age must be accompanied by a paying adult. Guests encouraged to dress for the weather and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
Passholders and guests of The Inn and Village Hotel receive a 10% discount.

Cost$125 per person plus tax
Falconry at the Biltmore Estate
Jun 27 @ 2:30 pm
Biltmore Estate

Falconry

Discover the ancient art of falconry on Biltmore’s historic grounds. Learn how to handle a trained hawk or falcon, then experience the inimitable thrill of a raptor flying to and landing upon your gloved hand. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to interact with one of these majestic birds of prey.

Two-guest minimum, Four-guest maximum

*Price is in addition to estate admission and subject to change. Must be 8 years of age or older to participate. Guests under 17 years of age must be accompanied by a paying adult. Guests encouraged to dress for the weather and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
Passholders and guests of The Inn and Village Hotel receive a 10% discount.

Cost$125 per person plus tax
Lake Julian 4th of July CANCELLED
Jun 27 @ 10:27 pm – 11:27 pm

Independence Day events across the country will not look the same this year.

Many communities have been forced to cancel their annual Fourth of July events, including most in Buncombe County. Although the fireworks display at Lake Julian Park will not take place, there are other ways to celebrate locally.

Buncombe County Recreation Services‘ parks and trails will be open, though some areas may be restricted including grills, picnic shelters, and restrooms. Access to the French Broad will be available at our seven river parks. The five outdoor pools operated by Buncombe County will also be open with new safety guidelines.

Park and pool visitors will be required to practice the Three Ws: wear a cloth face covering, wait at least six feet apart from and avoid close contact with anyone who does not live in your household, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often.

The Asheville Downtown Association will host a virtual Independence Day Celebration in partnership with the City of Asheville with support from Explore Asheville. The online concert will feature eight Asheville area bands performing at local music venues.

Follow Buncombe County Recreation on Facebook and Instagram.

Sunday, June 28, 2020
Official Statement: Asheville Tourists
Jun 28 all-day
Online
Paddle Grapple
Jun 28 @ 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Tsali Recreation Area

Registration Opens June 2020

 

Age: All Ages

Join us Saturday, August 1st at the Tsali Recreational Area for the 2020 Paddle Grapple, a 3 or 6 mile flatwater kayak, canoe and SUP race on beautiful Fontana Lake, which is nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, just a few miles from the Nantahala Outdoor Center. This popular event will take participants on a beautiful loop on Fontana Lake that will give you incredible views of the highest peaks in the National Park. Come enjoy the cool water, and hot competition at the 2020 Paddle Grapple.

Event Information

Distance: 3 or 6 miles
Course Map: Click HERE
For more information please visit Nantahala Racing Club’s Website.

Pre-Registration: Online Registration will open June 15, 2020 and close at 11:59AM on Wednesday, July 29th. Cost is $40 for each class.
Onsite Registration: A $10 Late Fee applies. You may register from 8-9:30AM at the NRC Event Tent next to the boat ramp.

2020 Schedule of Events | Tsali Recreation Area Boat Ramp

Saturday, August 1st Time
Onsite Registration 8-9:30AM
Vendor Demos 9AM
Competitor’s Meeting 9:30AM
Race START 10AM
Awards Ceremony 1PM
Aston Park Tennis Center Hours
Jun 28 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Aston Park Tennis Center

A limited number of courts are open at Aston Park Tennis Center between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.  The clubhouse, including restrooms and the pro shop, will remain closed and staff will not be onsite.

Lake Julian 4th of July CANCELLED
Jun 28 @ 10:27 pm – 11:27 pm

Independence Day events across the country will not look the same this year.

Many communities have been forced to cancel their annual Fourth of July events, including most in Buncombe County. Although the fireworks display at Lake Julian Park will not take place, there are other ways to celebrate locally.

Buncombe County Recreation Services‘ parks and trails will be open, though some areas may be restricted including grills, picnic shelters, and restrooms. Access to the French Broad will be available at our seven river parks. The five outdoor pools operated by Buncombe County will also be open with new safety guidelines.

Park and pool visitors will be required to practice the Three Ws: wear a cloth face covering, wait at least six feet apart from and avoid close contact with anyone who does not live in your household, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often.

The Asheville Downtown Association will host a virtual Independence Day Celebration in partnership with the City of Asheville with support from Explore Asheville. The online concert will feature eight Asheville area bands performing at local music venues.

Follow Buncombe County Recreation on Facebook and Instagram.

Wednesday, July 1, 2020
2020 Minor League Baseball Season Cancelled Over Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns
Jul 1 all-day

2020 Minor League Baseball Season Cancelled Over Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns

Drive’s 15th Anniversary Season in Downtown Greenville delayed until 2021

The Greenville Drive, in conjunction with Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball, and the South Atlantic League today announced that the 2020 season has been cancelled due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic that has swept across the world.

|

The ongoing concern regarding the safety of our community, and Minor League Baseball communities across America – including fans, front office staff, gameday staff, players and coaches – led to this decision.

Minor League Baseball (MiLB) issued the following statement today:
“In light of the current coronavirus outbreak, and after consultation with medical professionals and our partners at Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball will delay the start of the 2020 Championship Season. We will continue to monitor the developments and will announce additional information about the 2020 season at a later date. We will work with Major League Baseball and our community partners to resume play as soon as it is safe to do so. The health and safety of Minor League Baseball fans, players and executives is our top priority, and our thoughts are with those around the world who have been affected by this outbreak.”
Asheville Outlets Welcomes Sports Team Retailer Fanatics 101
Jul 1 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Asheville Outlets

On Wednesday, July 1, 2020 Asheville Outlets will welcome locally owned sports team retailer Fanatics 101, featuring official logo merchandise from the NFL, MLB, NHL, NSCAR, NCAA, college teams, and more. The shop carries team apparel, autographs, framed collectibles, car accessories, home décor items, titanium necklaces, banners, and other team memorabilia.

Thursday, July 2, 2020
2020 Minor League Baseball Season Cancelled Over Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns
Jul 2 all-day

2020 Minor League Baseball Season Cancelled Over Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns

Drive’s 15th Anniversary Season in Downtown Greenville delayed until 2021

The Greenville Drive, in conjunction with Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball, and the South Atlantic League today announced that the 2020 season has been cancelled due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic that has swept across the world.

|

The ongoing concern regarding the safety of our community, and Minor League Baseball communities across America – including fans, front office staff, gameday staff, players and coaches – led to this decision.

Minor League Baseball (MiLB) issued the following statement today:
“In light of the current coronavirus outbreak, and after consultation with medical professionals and our partners at Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball will delay the start of the 2020 Championship Season. We will continue to monitor the developments and will announce additional information about the 2020 season at a later date. We will work with Major League Baseball and our community partners to resume play as soon as it is safe to do so. The health and safety of Minor League Baseball fans, players and executives is our top priority, and our thoughts are with those around the world who have been affected by this outbreak.”
Falconry at the Biltmore Estate
Jul 2 @ 9:00 am
Biltmore Estate

Falconry

Discover the ancient art of falconry on Biltmore’s historic grounds. Learn how to handle a trained hawk or falcon, then experience the inimitable thrill of a raptor flying to and landing upon your gloved hand. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to interact with one of these majestic birds of prey.

Two-guest minimum, Four-guest maximum

*Price is in addition to estate admission and subject to change. Must be 8 years of age or older to participate. Guests under 17 years of age must be accompanied by a paying adult. Guests encouraged to dress for the weather and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
Passholders and guests of The Inn and Village Hotel receive a 10% discount.

Cost$125 per person plus tax
Falconry at the Biltmore Estate
Jul 2 @ 12:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Falconry

Discover the ancient art of falconry on Biltmore’s historic grounds. Learn how to handle a trained hawk or falcon, then experience the inimitable thrill of a raptor flying to and landing upon your gloved hand. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to interact with one of these majestic birds of prey.

Two-guest minimum, Four-guest maximum

*Price is in addition to estate admission and subject to change. Must be 8 years of age or older to participate. Guests under 17 years of age must be accompanied by a paying adult. Guests encouraged to dress for the weather and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
Passholders and guests of The Inn and Village Hotel receive a 10% discount.

Cost$125 per person plus tax
Falconry at the Biltmore Estate
Jul 2 @ 2:30 pm
Biltmore Estate

Falconry

Discover the ancient art of falconry on Biltmore’s historic grounds. Learn how to handle a trained hawk or falcon, then experience the inimitable thrill of a raptor flying to and landing upon your gloved hand. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to interact with one of these majestic birds of prey.

Two-guest minimum, Four-guest maximum

*Price is in addition to estate admission and subject to change. Must be 8 years of age or older to participate. Guests under 17 years of age must be accompanied by a paying adult. Guests encouraged to dress for the weather and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
Passholders and guests of The Inn and Village Hotel receive a 10% discount.

Cost$125 per person plus tax
Friday, July 3, 2020
2020 Minor League Baseball Season Cancelled Over Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns
Jul 3 all-day

2020 Minor League Baseball Season Cancelled Over Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns

Drive’s 15th Anniversary Season in Downtown Greenville delayed until 2021

The Greenville Drive, in conjunction with Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball, and the South Atlantic League today announced that the 2020 season has been cancelled due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic that has swept across the world.

|

The ongoing concern regarding the safety of our community, and Minor League Baseball communities across America – including fans, front office staff, gameday staff, players and coaches – led to this decision.

Minor League Baseball (MiLB) issued the following statement today:
“In light of the current coronavirus outbreak, and after consultation with medical professionals and our partners at Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball will delay the start of the 2020 Championship Season. We will continue to monitor the developments and will announce additional information about the 2020 season at a later date. We will work with Major League Baseball and our community partners to resume play as soon as it is safe to do so. The health and safety of Minor League Baseball fans, players and executives is our top priority, and our thoughts are with those around the world who have been affected by this outbreak.”
Paddle Grapple
Jul 3 @ 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Tsali Recreation Area

Registration Opens June 2020

 

Age: All Ages

Join us Saturday, August 1st at the Tsali Recreational Area for the 2020 Paddle Grapple, a 3 or 6 mile flatwater kayak, canoe and SUP race on beautiful Fontana Lake, which is nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, just a few miles from the Nantahala Outdoor Center. This popular event will take participants on a beautiful loop on Fontana Lake that will give you incredible views of the highest peaks in the National Park. Come enjoy the cool water, and hot competition at the 2020 Paddle Grapple.

Event Information

Distance: 3 or 6 miles
Course Map: Click HERE
For more information please visit Nantahala Racing Club’s Website.

Pre-Registration: Online Registration will open June 15, 2020 and close at 11:59AM on Wednesday, July 29th. Cost is $40 for each class.
Onsite Registration: A $10 Late Fee applies. You may register from 8-9:30AM at the NRC Event Tent next to the boat ramp.

2020 Schedule of Events | Tsali Recreation Area Boat Ramp

Saturday, August 1st Time
Onsite Registration 8-9:30AM
Vendor Demos 9AM
Competitor’s Meeting 9:30AM
Race START 10AM
Awards Ceremony 1PM
Freedom Days at the Farm
Jul 3 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Mountain Fresh Orchards

Mountain Fresh Orchards will be celebrating Freedom Days at the Farm July 3, 4 & 5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.  Fresh picked peaches, blueberries, blackberries, half runner beans, okra and other fruits and vegetables will be available for purchase in the farm market.

Mountain Fresh Orchards has the largest farm bakery in Henderson County serving over 18 fresh baked items. They offer warm apple cider donuts, fresh baked apple bread, apple pies and other tasty treats. The farm market has a wide range of canned goods such as sourwood honey, wildflower honey, honey crisp apple sauce, apple butter, peach butter, jams, jellies, preserves, BBQ sauces, hot sauces, pickles, salsas, canned peaches and sorghum. Handmade crafts such as face mask, potholders, hand towels, wreaths and decorated glass blocks are also available.  The kids will love the Kids Korner with fun books, train whistles, t-shirts, engineer hats and stuffed animals to choose from.

The Apple Express trackless train will take folks of all ages on a ride through the orchard.

If you are unable to visit Mountain Fresh Orchards in person an online store is available on their website so you can shop at your convenience.  Curbside pickup is available for local folks.

Saturday, July 4, 2020
2020 Minor League Baseball Season Cancelled Over Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns
Jul 4 all-day

2020 Minor League Baseball Season Cancelled Over Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns

Drive’s 15th Anniversary Season in Downtown Greenville delayed until 2021

The Greenville Drive, in conjunction with Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball, and the South Atlantic League today announced that the 2020 season has been cancelled due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic that has swept across the world.

|

The ongoing concern regarding the safety of our community, and Minor League Baseball communities across America – including fans, front office staff, gameday staff, players and coaches – led to this decision.

Minor League Baseball (MiLB) issued the following statement today:
“In light of the current coronavirus outbreak, and after consultation with medical professionals and our partners at Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball will delay the start of the 2020 Championship Season. We will continue to monitor the developments and will announce additional information about the 2020 season at a later date. We will work with Major League Baseball and our community partners to resume play as soon as it is safe to do so. The health and safety of Minor League Baseball fans, players and executives is our top priority, and our thoughts are with those around the world who have been affected by this outbreak.”
Asheville Independence Day 5k
Jul 4 all-day
Salvage Station

Bring your family & friends to join us for a fun, fast & flat run!
NEW this year – the chip timed 5k will start and finish at the Salvage Station on Riverside Drive! Start the holiday with a great run and create a new tradition.
Youths & Seniors receive a $5 off discount during registration.

Firecracker 5k – Is a go – Virtual and in Person POSTPONED TO Sept.5
Jul 4 all-day
Brevard

 

On June 10th, 2020, the County Health department advised the Brevard Rotary  that “given the upward direction of the infection numbers, they cannot sign-off on the event on July 4, 2020″.

This event will be postponed until September 5, 2020 when we will run a combined race with the White Squirrel 5K. 

So here we go …. Covid-19 and all

Dear Participant:

Thank you for your continuing support of the, three, Rotary Club of Brevard 5K and Fun runs in 2020.

We are fortunate to have three great sponsors, in the Pisgah Health Foundation, Pardee and Mountain Outdoor Products.

Gordon has laid out a great new course starting and finishing at the new Depot. The City have helped us immensely.

As you know all of the race net proceeds are used in the community, by Rotary, in one way or another. See details below. None of the volunteers are paid.

Our Conundrum for the Firecracker on July 4:

Our goal is to keep everyone safe (runners/walkers and volunteers) while at the same time bringing back some community and competitive exercise opportunities. Yes, we are “open”, but in a controlled way.

Presently we have to keep groups to a maximum of 25 people, and we cannot wait until June 26th , for details of the next phase, to make a change for July 4. So we run under the rules we have in front of us today.

We are offering you three choices to run the Firecracker in 2020

Everyone will sign-up at Runsignup https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Brevard/Firecracker5kandFunRun

It is first come first served

Through June 14, 2020 the price to participate will be $30; $35 after that date or up to a maximum of 200 runners – we currently have 40 slots allocated, so 160 more participants can register. You will be able to register online up until July 2, 2020 or until we reach 200 runners. Note -this is far short of the 600 we ran last year, but is about all we can ‘safely’ handle.

There are no sign-ups on Saturday (as we cannot handle/ touch the paperwork involved; there is no fun run for the Children (sorry we do not have the volunteers to keep them physically distanced at this run) and no early indoor registration and shirt pick-up on Friday.

1/ Run our course on your own or in a small group and record your own time.

From Monday to Friday, June 29 to July 3, 2020, we will place signs at 7.00AM and remove them at 7.00PM. Once you have registered you can record your time manually. You can collect a shirt on Saturday at the Depot or opt to have it mailed to you for an extra $10.

You run the course on your own and at your own risk. Please be considerate to our neighbors.

2/ Run your own 5K course.

From Monday to Friday, June 29 to July 3, 2020, you can run in the Brevard 5K Firecracker, anywhere in the Country, indeed anywhere in the world (there is a prize for the furthest away), if you wish. Once you have registered you can record your time manually. You can collect a shirt on Saturday at the Depot in Brevard or opt to have it mailed to you for an extra $10.

You run the course on your own and at your own risk. Please be considerate to our neighbors.

3/ Saturday July 4, 2020 – Running with others

We will limit runners/walkers to 150 on Saturday.

Please do not come to the Depot if you are feeling unwell.

The staging area at the DEPOT will have one entrance, on Railroad on the entrance to the depot (the pull in area) – please use that one entrance and physically distance yourself, while you wait.

The staging area will open at 7.00AM – we ask for your patience; our volunteers and the organizers have never done this before.

No one, other than registered runners, walkers, volunteers and public safety officers, will be allowed in the staging area.

At this stage, we require that everyone wear a mask in the staging area (not essential on the run, but preferred.) We will have spare masks for those registered runners/walkers only, who forget their mask.

We will then make sure you are registered and give you a bib.  The Bib, will not have an RFID chip on it – you will be timing yourselves for this run/walk.

You will also be asked for an approximate speed and given a chip with a number on it. Low numbers will be faster runners – walkers’ will be given higher

numbers.

Teams will receive their own number.

You will be directed to your numbered zone, where we ask you to stay until called to the start line.

Each Zone will be called up to the start as soon as another zone has been cleared – the starter controls the time between each group.

AT worst this should have everyone away by 8.40AM

Water will be available on this day only – our thanks to Telco

We hope to celebrate the opening of the depot.

Upon your return; you will be asked your time, or you can enter it yourself at home after the race.

Results will be posted the next week.

Prizes:

Will be given for:

The fastest runners

The One running the race in the most remote virtual location.

The best dressed Covid-19 virus look a like

Everyone will get a shirt and a medal

Funner stuff:

On Saturday, July 4, we will have a starter, the big clock and the all-important finish gate with a professional photographer ready to immortalize your finish.

Once you have finished, you can collect the ‘more-important’ classic race shirt. It will be a collector’s item.

We may have other fun stuff, as well.

Safety:

We will do all we can to keep everyone safe, including our neighbors. Please run in a mask, if that is comfortable – by blowing and puffing you are going to express water droplets a lot further than 6 feet.

There will be no support, marshals or water on the course at any time during Monday to Friday -by signing up you agree you run at your own risk. Please respect our Neighbors ‘health’ and property and do not litter.

Social distancing of 6′ is encouraged at all times.

Fish for Free on July 4
Jul 4 all-day
Buncombe County Parks--various

Young Man Fishing

On July 4, anyone in North Carolina can enjoy one of state’s best outdoor activities for free. Residents and out-of-state visitors are allowed to fish without having to purchase a license or pay a daily permit fee including in public fishing spots such as Charles D. Owen and Lake Julian Parks. All other fishing regulations apply, such as length and daily possession limits, as well as bait and tackle restrictions.

“Free Fishing Day allows families and individuals to enjoy quality time outdoors,” says Josh O’Conner, Director of Buncombe County Recreation Services. “Fishing crosses all gender, cultural, and economic lines. For our younger residents, it builds confidence, improves coordination, teaches patience, and encourages an appreciation of nature.”

To give anglers a better chance of catching fish, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission stocks a variety of fish in waters across the state including trout and channel catfish.

Many fishing areas will be crowded on July 4, so park visitors are urged to be patient and courteous. Also, because of COVID-19, physical distance of at least six feet must be maintained between anglers and others who do not live in the same household. All park visitors are reminded to practice the Three Ws: wear a cloth face covering when entering/exiting the pool and when not in the pool, wait at least six feet apart from and avoid close contact with anyone who does not live in your household, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often.

While anyone can fish for free on July 4, a fishing license is required for people age 16 and older on all other days of the year in order to fish in any public water in North Carolina. Purchasing a license online is quick and easy.

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