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, May 2, 2023
The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad
May 2 @ 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Back by popular demand, The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad exhibition offers guests:

  • An opportunity to view rarely-seen treasures from the Biltmore collection
  • A first-hand look at the Vanderbilts’ lifestyle
  • Deeper insights into George, Edith, and Cornelia’s personalities, both at home and on their extensive travels

Access to exhibitions at The Biltmore Legacy is included with Biltmore daytime admission.

GREENVILLE COUNTY YOUTH ORCHESTRA SPRING ORCHESTRAS CONCERT
May 2 @ 7:00 pm
Peace Concert Hall

A night of accomplishments and wonderful music. Join us as all six of GCYO’s ensembles take the stage.

LAZOOM Tours: GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR
May 2 @ 7:00 pm
LaZoom Room


GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR

Grab a local beer, crucifix and a rubber chicken* —You might survive this hour long hilarious haunted ghost tour of Asheville.

  • Guided comedy bus tour of Haunted Asheville
  • 60 minutes; tours run nightly after dark
  • $33 per person (Ages 17+ only)
  • Departs from 76 Biltmore Avenue

*Legal Note: Crucifix not required to board the bus; we do not condone exorcisms, chickens, rubber, or any combination of the three.

Connect Beyond Volunteer Opportunities
May 2 @ 8:00 pm
Harrah’s Cherokee Center - Asheville

We have three opportunities for you to help Connect Beyond AND see some music! We need volunteers to assist with wristbands for three shows this summer at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville in Downtown Asheville, N.C. Shifts are roughly (3) hours and all participating volunteers will also receive (1) free ticket to stay after and watch the show. The following dates and shows are available:

  • May 7th: Gojira and Mastodon
  • June 13th: boygenius
  • August 12th: Motionless in White
Wednesday, May 3, 2023
Biltmore Blooms
May 3 all-day
Biltmore Estate Gardens

Spring at Biltmore, one of the estate’s most glorious seasons, invites you to experience a spring break mountain escape with all the charm of a European retreat. Immerse yourself in thousands of colorful tulips as Biltmore Blooms transforms our gardens and grounds. Explore Italian Renaissance Alive and Ciao! From Italy. Savor our Winery’s award-winning vintages and, of course, the timeless elegance of Biltmore House.

  • Daytime access to 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds, including:
    • 75+ Acres of formal and informal gardens
    • 20+ Miles of hiking, biking, and walking trails
  • Antler Hill Village & Winery
  • Complimentary Wine Tasting
  • Complimentary Parking

Gardens & Grounds admission does NOT include Biltmore House entry.

LEAF Visiting Teaching Artists May 2023 Catalog
May 3 all-day
online
LAZOOM: CITY COMEDY TOUR
May 3 @ 10:00 am
LaZoom Room

Learn Asheville’s history, discover hidden gems, and laugh at LaZoom’s quirky sense of adventure.

  • Guided comedy tour bus of historical Asheville
  • 90-Minutes – tours run daily
  • 15-minute break at Green Man Brewing
  • $39 per person (ages 13+ only)
The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad
May 3 @ 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Back by popular demand, The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad exhibition offers guests:

  • An opportunity to view rarely-seen treasures from the Biltmore collection
  • A first-hand look at the Vanderbilts’ lifestyle
  • Deeper insights into George, Edith, and Cornelia’s personalities, both at home and on their extensive travels

Access to exhibitions at The Biltmore Legacy is included with Biltmore daytime admission.

Ring of Fire – The Music of Johnny Cash
May 3 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

From the songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits including “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and, of course, “Ring of Fire.” Performed by a multi-talented cast, Ring of Fire paints a musical portrait of ‘The Man in Black’ that promises to be a foot-stompin’, crowd-pleasin’ salute to a unique musical legend!

Ring of Fire, The Life and Music of Johnny Cash
May 3 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

From the songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits including “I Walk the Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and, of course, “Ring of Fire.” Performed by a multi-talented cast.

 

Director Ben Hope adds “Having spent many years working on various productions of Ring of Fire (this production will be my personal 10th!), The most extraordinary thing I keep finding about Mr. Cash is how unanimously loved he is, even now, 20 years since his death. No other project seems to attract such a varied and enthusiastic crowd as the music of Johnny Cash. I think it’s because he wrote for the ordinary. His words and music are authentic and simple, and he speaks plainly about things we all connect with. He was fallible, with personal demons and shortcomings. He makes us feel like our own imperfections are normal and mundane, and he teaches us that there’s beauty and hope, even in despair. I love Johnny Cash, and I know Flat Rock audiences are going to love Ring of Fire’.”

 

Don’t miss this inspiring story, all the great music, and an evening of iconic Johnny Cash!

 

Ring of Fire is presented by WHKP and Carolina Ace Hardware. Flat Rock Playhouse’s 2023 Season is supported by Charlotte & Bob Otto, Optimum, WHKP, and WTZQ as well as the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. www.NCArts.org

 

For a complete lineup with show descriptions and to purchase tickets, visit www.flatrockplayhouse.org.

LAZOOM Tours: GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR
May 3 @ 7:00 pm
LaZoom Room


GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR

Grab a local beer, crucifix and a rubber chicken* —You might survive this hour long hilarious haunted ghost tour of Asheville.

  • Guided comedy bus tour of Haunted Asheville
  • 60 minutes; tours run nightly after dark
  • $33 per person (Ages 17+ only)
  • Departs from 76 Biltmore Avenue

*Legal Note: Crucifix not required to board the bus; we do not condone exorcisms, chickens, rubber, or any combination of the three.

Music to Your Ears Discussion Series: JODY CARROLL
May 3 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Asheville Guitar Bar

Hosted by the
Asheville Guitar Bar, a discussion series provides deeper understanding and
greater enjoyment of music forms including rock, soul, blues and jazz. Led by
Asheville author and music journalist Bill Kopp, Music to Your Ears is an
interactive experience that shines a light on important music. Music to Your
Ears is a 90-minute conversation, held at the Guitar Bar, a music magnet in
Asheville’s historic River Arts District. The May 3 event features special guest Jody Carroll.
Delta blues is one of the richest and fascinating strains of American music. From the muddy Mississippi Delta
comes this primarily acoustic, deeply soulful and historically significant style. Charley Patton, Robert Johnson
and Big Joe Williams were important figures in the music; more than a century old, Delta blues remains vital
thanks to current-day practitioners like Jody Carroll. (jodycarroll.com)
Carroll combines his interpretations of Delta blues classics with his original material, stories and an engaging
presentation that showcases his fingerstyle guitar work. His music draws from other genres – rock, jazz,
country and more – creating something unique in the process. Carroll is a traveling musician, though for a time
he set aside his itinerant ways and was based in Asheville. During that time he was a regular and beloved
fixture at Asheville Guitar Bar. He has since returned to the road, but Carroll is making a special and long-
awaited return for a performance at AGB on Thursday, May 4.
And this month’s Music to Your Ears is a special entry: it provides an additional opportunity to see, hear and
meet Jody Carroll. On Wednesday, May 3 – the evening before his concert – MTYE host Bill Kopp welcomes
Jody Carroll for an evening of conversation and music. We’ll explore Carroll’s musical roots and inspirations,
learn about his creative process, and enjoy some up-close-and-personal music. As always, Music to Your Ears
is a discussion, and the active participation of attendees is what makes the evening an experience far beyond
a talk or a mere concert.
ABOUT THE DISCUSSION SERIES
Music to Your Ears is Bill Kopp’s monthly discussion series hosted by Asheville Guitar Bar and co-sponsored
by AshevilleFM. On the first Wednesday of each month, music enthusiasts gather to discuss an important
album, artist or musical movement. An interactive evening, Music to Your Ears isn’t a lecture; it’s a discussion
led by experts and designed to enrich the listening experience. The character of each session is defined by the
participants (that’s you). The conversation goes where the attendees take it: the person seated next to you
might have attended Woodstock or seen The Beatles in concert. The insights of everyone in the room are what
make each and every Music to Your Ears a unique experience.
ABOUT BILL KOPP
With over 500 bylines in Western North Carolina publications (Mountain Xpress, Bold Life, WNC Magazine and
more), Asheville-based author and music journalist is an acknowledged expert on popular music. Author of two
books – Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon and Disturbing the Peace:
415 Records and the Rise of New Wave – Bill Kopp writes for publications across the country and abroad. A
contributing editor at Goldmine Magazine and contributing writer at GRAMMY.com, he has authored more than
30 album liner note essays and conducted more than 1000 interviews. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions
on artists and albums of historical importance, and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and
podcasts.

Ring of Fire – The Music of Johnny Cash
May 3 @ 7:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

From the songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits including “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and, of course, “Ring of Fire.” Performed by a multi-talented cast, Ring of Fire paints a musical portrait of ‘The Man in Black’ that promises to be a foot-stompin’, crowd-pleasin’ salute to a unique musical legend!

RAIN – A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES
May 3 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Concert Hall

RAIN – A Tribute to the Beatles performs songs from Abbey Road & the Rooftop Concert LIVE, in addition to all your favorite hits! This mind-blowing performance takes you back in time with the legendary foursome delivering a note-for-note theatrical event that is the next best thing to seeing the Beatles.

Experience the world’s most iconic band and get back to where you once belonged with RAIN – A Tribute to the Beatles.

Ring of Fire, The Life and Music of Johnny Cash
May 3 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

From the songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits including “I Walk the Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and, of course, “Ring of Fire.” Performed by a multi-talented cast.

 

Director Ben Hope adds “Having spent many years working on various productions of Ring of Fire (this production will be my personal 10th!), The most extraordinary thing I keep finding about Mr. Cash is how unanimously loved he is, even now, 20 years since his death. No other project seems to attract such a varied and enthusiastic crowd as the music of Johnny Cash. I think it’s because he wrote for the ordinary. His words and music are authentic and simple, and he speaks plainly about things we all connect with. He was fallible, with personal demons and shortcomings. He makes us feel like our own imperfections are normal and mundane, and he teaches us that there’s beauty and hope, even in despair. I love Johnny Cash, and I know Flat Rock audiences are going to love Ring of Fire’.”

 

Don’t miss this inspiring story, all the great music, and an evening of iconic Johnny Cash!

 

Ring of Fire is presented by WHKP and Carolina Ace Hardware. Flat Rock Playhouse’s 2023 Season is supported by Charlotte & Bob Otto, Optimum, WHKP, and WTZQ as well as the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. www.NCArts.org

 

For a complete lineup with show descriptions and to purchase tickets, visit www.flatrockplayhouse.org.

Connect Beyond Volunteer Opportunities
May 3 @ 8:00 pm
Harrah’s Cherokee Center - Asheville

We have three opportunities for you to help Connect Beyond AND see some music! We need volunteers to assist with wristbands for three shows this summer at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville in Downtown Asheville, N.C. Shifts are roughly (3) hours and all participating volunteers will also receive (1) free ticket to stay after and watch the show. The following dates and shows are available:

  • May 7th: Gojira and Mastodon
  • June 13th: boygenius
  • August 12th: Motionless in White
Lucinda Williams
May 3 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel
Thursday, May 4, 2023
Biltmore Blooms
May 4 all-day
Biltmore Estate Gardens

Spring at Biltmore, one of the estate’s most glorious seasons, invites you to experience a spring break mountain escape with all the charm of a European retreat. Immerse yourself in thousands of colorful tulips as Biltmore Blooms transforms our gardens and grounds. Explore Italian Renaissance Alive and Ciao! From Italy. Savor our Winery’s award-winning vintages and, of course, the timeless elegance of Biltmore House.

  • Daytime access to 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds, including:
    • 75+ Acres of formal and informal gardens
    • 20+ Miles of hiking, biking, and walking trails
  • Antler Hill Village & Winery
  • Complimentary Wine Tasting
  • Complimentary Parking

Gardens & Grounds admission does NOT include Biltmore House entry.

Cinderella Magic Package
May 4 all-day
online w/ Flat Rock Playhouse

We are excited to bring this special package to you and your loved ones. It’s super easy!

  1. Pick your show date – June 14, 17, 21, 24 (Evening only)
  2. Choose 2 Adult Seats and 2 Student Seats
  3. At Checkout, discount will be applied

Bibbidi-bobbidi-boo!

Your wish is granted!

TICKETS + INFO

If you have any problems, our Box Office is happy to help!

828.693.0731

LEAF Visiting Teaching Artists May 2023 Catalog
May 4 all-day
online
LAZOOM: CITY COMEDY TOUR
May 4 @ 10:00 am
LaZoom Room

Learn Asheville’s history, discover hidden gems, and laugh at LaZoom’s quirky sense of adventure.

  • Guided comedy tour bus of historical Asheville
  • 90-Minutes – tours run daily
  • 15-minute break at Green Man Brewing
  • $39 per person (ages 13+ only)
The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Back by popular demand, The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad exhibition offers guests:

  • An opportunity to view rarely-seen treasures from the Biltmore collection
  • A first-hand look at the Vanderbilts’ lifestyle
  • Deeper insights into George, Edith, and Cornelia’s personalities, both at home and on their extensive travels

Access to exhibitions at The Biltmore Legacy is included with Biltmore daytime admission.

Ring of Fire – The Music of Johnny Cash
May 4 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

From the songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits including “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and, of course, “Ring of Fire.” Performed by a multi-talented cast, Ring of Fire paints a musical portrait of ‘The Man in Black’ that promises to be a foot-stompin’, crowd-pleasin’ salute to a unique musical legend!

Ring of Fire, The Life and Music of Johnny Cash
May 4 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

From the songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits including “I Walk the Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and, of course, “Ring of Fire.” Performed by a multi-talented cast.

 

Director Ben Hope adds “Having spent many years working on various productions of Ring of Fire (this production will be my personal 10th!), The most extraordinary thing I keep finding about Mr. Cash is how unanimously loved he is, even now, 20 years since his death. No other project seems to attract such a varied and enthusiastic crowd as the music of Johnny Cash. I think it’s because he wrote for the ordinary. His words and music are authentic and simple, and he speaks plainly about things we all connect with. He was fallible, with personal demons and shortcomings. He makes us feel like our own imperfections are normal and mundane, and he teaches us that there’s beauty and hope, even in despair. I love Johnny Cash, and I know Flat Rock audiences are going to love Ring of Fire’.”

 

Don’t miss this inspiring story, all the great music, and an evening of iconic Johnny Cash!

 

Ring of Fire is presented by WHKP and Carolina Ace Hardware. Flat Rock Playhouse’s 2023 Season is supported by Charlotte & Bob Otto, Optimum, WHKP, and WTZQ as well as the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. www.NCArts.org

 

For a complete lineup with show descriptions and to purchase tickets, visit www.flatrockplayhouse.org.

Waverly Front Porch Series
May 4 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Waverly Inn

Join us on select Thursdays from April through September for live Americana music from the Waverly front porch along with great southern fare and cold beverages. Bring a lawn chair and/or blanket from 6-8pm for a great evening in Hendersonville.

May 4: Jess Jocoy, Waverly Front Porch Series

June 1: Letters to Abigail, Waverly Front Porch Series

June 29: The Gathering Dark, Waverly Front Porch Series

July 27: The Last Full Measure, Waverly Front Porch Series

September 7: Angela Easterling, Waverly Front Porch Series

October 5: David Childers, Waverly Front Porch Series

The String Cheese Incident
May 4 @ 6:30 pm
Salvage Station

The String Cheese Incident will be performing LIVE on the Outdoor Stage at Salvage Station for an incredible three-night run (Thursday, May 4th, Friday, May 5th and Saturday, May 6th)! Doors open at 5:30pm and the music starts at 6:30pm. All tickets are General Admission and these shows are all-ages with children under 7 free.

Root Down will be serving their delicious twist on Southern Soul food PLUS we will have additional food trucks on-site for the duration of the show.  And, of course, we will have MULTIPLE full bars open for you to enjoy!

American Brass Quintet
May 4 @ 7:00 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center

Known as the “high priests of brass,” the American Brass Quintet has performed around the world and across the United States at many prestigious venues. Known for playing a wide range of music, they are accomplished in early, classical, and contemporary compositions. They play with assurance, technical prowess, and bravura.

Jazz Jam
May 4 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
LEAF Global Arts Center

Our jazz trio with Thommy Knoles on keys, Felix Pastorius on bass, and Paul Gladstone on drums will perform an opening set from about 7-8:15 pm.

An open jam session follows. Drop-ins are welcome and encouraged for a suggested donation of $10.

Jazz Jam will feature a diverse array of music from jazz’s rich history, ranging from 1940s bebop up to 1970s jazz fusion, as well as material from prominent present-day composers. Bring your instruments and jam with us, or just come and enjoy!

LAZOOM Tours: GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR
May 4 @ 7:00 pm
LaZoom Room


GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR

Grab a local beer, crucifix and a rubber chicken* —You might survive this hour long hilarious haunted ghost tour of Asheville.

  • Guided comedy bus tour of Haunted Asheville
  • 60 minutes; tours run nightly after dark
  • $33 per person (Ages 17+ only)
  • Departs from 76 Biltmore Avenue

*Legal Note: Crucifix not required to board the bus; we do not condone exorcisms, chickens, rubber, or any combination of the three.

Ring of Fire – The Music of Johnny Cash
May 4 @ 7:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

From the songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits including “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and, of course, “Ring of Fire.” Performed by a multi-talented cast, Ring of Fire paints a musical portrait of ‘The Man in Black’ that promises to be a foot-stompin’, crowd-pleasin’ salute to a unique musical legend!