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.
Wednesday, February
14, 2024
Free Pool Operator Training
ecoEXPLORE Family Birding Day
Downtown Asheville Valentine’s Day Treasure Hunt – Walking Scavenger Hunt!
Buncombe County Environmental Health is hosting a FREE course for pool operators, owners, and any others who are involved in the day-to-day operation of a public pool, spa, or other body of water or are tasked with filling out the paperwork annually.
Topics that will be covered:
- How to avoid getting your annual application sent back.
- How to avoid a revisit fee and permit-action items specific to North Carolina.
- Common permit conditions.
- Industry changes and what they mean for you.
- How to properly fill out your safety data sheet:
- How to properly measure your sump.
- How to determine a flow reduction, if needed.
- How to determine that your drain covers work with your pool.
The training will be in person at 200 College St. Asheville, NC 28801. It will be broken up into two sections with the latter to work on your individual datasheet with in-person help from an Environmental Health staff member. Please note that this course is NOT a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) training course.
Please register for one of the two courses (you may register multiple people at once):
February 7, 2024, from 9 a.m. – noon. Registration closes on January 19, 2024
February 14, 2024, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Registration closes on January 26, 2024
To ensure a conducive learning environment for all, the number of registrants is limited, so registration is first come, first served. Once registration has closed, you will receive a confirmation email letting you know whether or not your registration has been accepted. The course agenda will be attached to emails sent to registrants attending the course.
Looking to get your kids outside this winter? Join us as we walk you through the web-based program, ecoEXPLORE. In this free event, you’ll learn how to submit photos and complete nature-themed challenges to earn badges and prizes! This initiative by the NC Arboretum includes a different challenge each season that will keep children engaged in learning about nature year-round while also contributing to citizen science. The theme this winter is ornithology. We’ll explore Owen Park’s shores and woods for a variety of feathered friends! Stick around after the program to continue your exploration of the nature trails and playground.
Visit ecoexplore.net to learn more about ecoEXPLORE.
Ages: 5-10 years; families welcome.
Where: Owen Park Picnic Shelter, next to the dock and ball fields.
Where: Owen Park Picnic Shelter, next to the dock and ball fields.
Thursday, February
15, 2024
Vertebrate Zoology of the Blue Ridge Part I
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
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ONLINE | Asynchronous Class Open February 15 through April 30, 2024; With course materials and online discussion session.
Instructor: Carlton Burke
$125 Non-member Adult**
(**Arboretum Members receive a 10% discount on all classes.)
BRN – Core (Part 1 of 2; Vertebrate Zoology Parts I and II must be completed to fulfill the core requirement for the certificate program.)
Limit: 50
Asynchronous Series Open February 15 through April 30. Part I consists of six pre-recorded lectures with course materials; Supplemented with an Online Interactive Discussion Session on Tuesday, February 27, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., with Instructor Carlton Burke.
Videos and assignments for Part I will focus on different groups of vertebrate animals – fish, amphibians, and reptiles.
The Southern Appalachian Mountain region is quite diverse in the many different species of vertebrate animals that make their home here. In this series of classes, students will learn the basic identification and natural history of many of our mountain wildlife species. All six lectures of Part I will be released asynchronously – or on demand – on February 15th and will be available through April 30th in 2024. On-demand delivery allows participants to view the lectures at times most convenient for them, to pause and absorb the knowledge from the videos in ways best suited to different learning styles! Then take advantage of interactive opportunities to meet the instructor for an in-person Lunch & Learn discussion or an online Q & A. Continue in March with Vertebrate Zoology of the Blue Ridge II to learn about the region’s birds and mammals.
Carlton Burke is a naturalist and educator who operates Carolina Mountain Naturalists, an educational service which offers wildlife and nature educational programs throughout western North Carolina. He also was on the staff of the western North Carolina Nature Center in Asheville for over 25 years as the Curator of Exhibits. Carlton co-hosts a weekly radio program NATURE NEWS and is also a NC state and federally licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Included with admission
Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.
Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.
Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!
Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.
Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.
Friday, February
16, 2024
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
“Connection” Winter Outdoor Sculpture Installation
Greenville Swamp Rabbits vs. South Carolina Stingrays
Included with admission
Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.
Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.
Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!
Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.
Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.
February 16-19
David McVough’s “Connection” Winter Outdoor Sculpture Installation at Marked Tree, 11-6pm, The work, titled “Connection”, is a
325lb. sculpture honed from blocks of Chinese Chestnut. Stop by the vineyard between February 16th and April 19th to see this
beautiful sculpture before it is sent off to the Art Fields Exhibit! Free
Greenville Swamp Rabbits vs. South Carolina Stingrays
Saturday, February
17, 2024
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Star Wars Night: Greenville Swamp Rabbits vs. Atlanta Gladiators
Included with admission
Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.
Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.
Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!
Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.
Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.
Greenville Swamp Rabbits vs. Atlanta Gladiators
Sunday, February
18, 2024
FROSTBITE RACES – 10K, 5K + 1-Mile Fun Run
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Frostbite 5k, 10k + 1 Mile
FROSTBITE RACES – 10K, 5K + 1-Mile Fun Run
For over 31 years, the Frostbite Races have motivated runners and walkers to stay active throughout the colder winter months. Participants brave the chilly temperatures to compete in a series of races, including a challenging 10K, a scenic 5K, or 1-mile fun run. Flurry the Penguin is always encouraging runners and walkers with high fives. The Family Fun Day and Wellness Expo add to the excitement with local vendors, wellness services, live music, and kid’s activities. The Frostbite Races have become a beloved tradition in Fletcher, NC, bringing the community together for a day of fitness and fun.
Included with admission
Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.
Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.
Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!
Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.
Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.
Want to avoid the winter blues? Get motivated with the 32nd Annual Frostbite Races presented by Hunter Subaru!
Join the largest winter footrace in Henderson County for a fun-filled afternoon of running and family-friendly activities. Choose from a 10K, 5K run/walk, or a flat and fast 1-mile un-timed Fun Run – perfect for runners of all ages and abilities. Join us at the Lelia Patterson Center in Fletcher, NC for a day of fitness, fun, and frosty festivities. Register now and gear up for the coolest race of the year!
An Exhilarating Winter Tradition that Elevates Personal Wellness
February 18, 2024
For over 31 years, the Frostbite Races have motivated runners and walkers to stay active throughout the colder winter months. Participants brave the chilly temperatures to compete in a series of races, including a challenging 10K, a scenic 5K, or 1-mile fun run. Flurry the Penguin is always encouraging runners and walkers with high fives. The Family Fun Day and Wellness Expo add to the excitement with local vendors, wellness services, live music, and kid’s activities. The Frostbite Races have become a beloved tradition in Fletcher, NC, bringing the community together for a day of fitness and fun.
Monday, February
19, 2024
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Carolina Hurricanes vs. Chicago Blackhawks
Included with admission
Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.
Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.
Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!
Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.
Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.
Carolina Hurricanes vs. Chicago Blackhawks
Tuesday, February
20, 2024
NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Build Your Own Bluebird Box
Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.
Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.
Instructor: Joe Sanders
$120 Non-member Adult**
(**Arboretum Members receive a 10% discount on all classes.)
BRN – Elective, 2 hours | BREG – Elective, 2 hours
Limit: 12
Help bluebirds thrive in your area by learning how to construct and place a bluebird nest box on your property. Bluebirds actually need human intervention in order to compensate for their natural habitats being overtaken by non-native species. This three-hour class will give a history of the bluebird and its lifecycle. Each participant will build their own cedar nest box of the type that has proven popular with bluebirds. No carpentry experience is required. You will go home with a completed bluebird nest box, mounting pole, and written information on attracting bluebirds to your property.
Joe Sanders has been working with bluebird restoration for over 30 years and is currently a County Representative for the North Carolina Bluebird Society. He has taught classes to numerous community garden groups and currently monitors nest boxes during the nesting season, including those on the Arboretum grounds.
Wednesday, February
21, 2024
NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Hybrid-Living in the mountains: wildlife control for your landscape
Wofford Terriers vs. Kennesaw State University
Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.
Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.
Sponsored by NC Cooperative Extension and the Transylvania County Library, Living in the Mountains is a five-part educational series exploring the unique challenges and opportunities of living in the mountains of Western North Carolina.
Part Five: Wildlife Control for Your Landscape
Living in harmony with nature means a lot more than just putting out bird feeders. In fact, sometimes that’s a bad idea! In this presentation, we’ll discuss how to get along with the moles, voles, deer, birds, bats, bears, and other varmints that might come to visit your home here in the mountains. This will include deer-resistant plants and strategies to keep critters out of your garden.
This event will take place in person, in the Library’s Rogow Room. Can’t make it in person? Join the program via Zoom.
Follow the Terriers on Twitter at @WoffordBaseball
Thursday, February
22, 2024
NC Arboretum Hiking Trails
Carolina Hurricanes vs. Florida Panthers
Pride Night: Carolina Hurricanes vs. Florida Panthers
Greenville Swamp Rabbits vs. Rapid City Rush
Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.
Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.
Carolina Hurricanes vs. Florida Panthers
Join the Hurricanes on Pride Night, as we aim to drive positive social change and foster more inclusive communities with the belief that Hockey is for Everyone. Presented by UNC Health.
Greenville Swamp Rabbits vs. Rapid City Rush