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.

Sunday, August 10, 2025
Sunday Afternoon Club
Aug 10 @ 5:30 pm
The Orange Peel

Sunday Afternoon Clubwith music from Big Fur

at The Squeeze on The Orange Peel patio

Sunday, August 10
Show: 5:30pm | Doors: 4:30pm
The Orange Peel
Ages 18+
Introducing the Sunday Afternoon Club at The Orange Peel our new open air music series!
Join us at The Squeeze our fresh outdoor bar and patio as we welcome the AVL community for afternoons of music and Sunday sipping!
These events are free to attend so bring the brunch gang over and join in the fun.
Check out the whole summer lineup and we’ll see you soon!
South for Winter
Aug 10 @ 6:30 pm
The Grey Eagle

The Grey Eagle & Chat Hills Music Present: South for Winter

Sunday, August 10
Doors: 6pm // Show: 6:30pm
Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event
ALL AGES
SEATED SHOW
SOUTH FOR WINTER
With a blend of dreamy acoustic duets, foot-stomping folk and bluesy murder ballads, New Zealand-formed and Nashville-based South for Winter’s sound is as eclectic as their origins. The band is composed of New Zealander Nick Stone, Coloradan Dani Cichon, and Michigander Alex Stradal, and together the three multi-instrumentalists and songwriters combine elements such as classically-trained cello, percussive guitar, mandolin, suitcase stomp, poetic lyricism, and haunting melodies into a genre-bending sound described by American Songwriter as “impeccable”.
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox
Aug 12 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox

Tuesday, August 12
Show: 8pm | Doors: 7pm

The Orange Peel
Ages 18+
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Arbor Evenings
Aug 13 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays through September 18, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

**Please note: Outside alcohol is prohibited on the campus of The North Carolina Arboretum.**

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

Thursday, August 14, 2025
2025 Mtn. Hort. Field Day
Aug 14 all-day
Mountain Horticultural Crops Research & Extension Center

Join us at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center (MHCREC) for our annual Field Day. Since 1949, our station has been a hub of agricultural innovation, with the added addition of Field Day being a long-standing tradition. This year’s event promises an engaging, informative, and hands-on look at the latest in horticultural research and extension activities.

Field Day 2025 will feature a comprehensive showcase of ongoing research programs across a variety of crops such as apples, tomatoes, nursery plants, and other specialty crops. In addition to the featured research, the event will highlight various other projects and initiatives that reflect the breadth of work being done here at MHCREC.

Come for the whole day or drop in for part of it — your choice! Admission is free.

Enjoy a complimentary lunch on us! And of course, don’t miss the chance to make your own fresh tomato sandwich right in the field!

We look forward to welcoming growers, researchers, students, and community members alike for a day of learning, networking, and celebration of agricultural innovation.

Arbor Evenings
Aug 14 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays through September 18, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

**Please note: Outside alcohol is prohibited on the campus of The North Carolina Arboretum.**

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

The Jesus Casino + Impending Joy + Sunbearer
Aug 14 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

The Jesus Casino + Impending Joy + Sunbearer

Thursday, August 14
Show: 8pm | Doors: 7pm

The Orange Peel
All Ages – under 12 requires venue approval
Friday, August 15, 2025
Downtown After 5
Aug 15 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Pack Square Park

Join us as we partner with Blue Ridge Pride for a 90s Country-themed Downtown After 5! Featuring headliner Mustache the Band and opener Shakey’s Live Band Karaoke. Show off your style in our Best Boots Contest or channel your inner queen in the Dolly Parton Lookalike Competition for a chance to win fun prizes!

Downtown After 5 is more than just a concert series—it’s a community staple that celebrates the diversity and creativity of Asheville. Each event is free to the public, thanks to the generous support of our sponsors and partners, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of between 5,000 to 6,000 attendees. Food and beverage vendors will be on-site alongside a marketplace component where attendees can explore and shop handmade crafts from local makers. Join us at Pack Square Park for these unforgettable evenings of music, community, and celebration.

Amanda Anne Platt
Aug 15 @ 8:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

Grey Eagle Events Presents: Amanda Anne Platt

Doors: 7pm // Show: 8pm
$16.06

 

Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event
ALL AGES
STANDING ROOM ONLY 
Amanda Anne Platt has been writing and performing her original songs in front of live audiences for almost two decades. With her band The Honeycutters she has released nine albums of her own original material and toured extensively in the US and Europe. Her last six studio albums have landed in the top five of WNCW’s annual listener voted top 100 releases, most recently at #5 with her 2024 release, The Ones That Stay. Platt won second place in Merlefest’s Chris Austin songwriting competition in 2011 with her song “Little Bird”, and has been privileged over the years to share the stage with such songwriting greats as Guy Clark, Amy Ray, Billy Joe Shaver, Tift Merrit, and Radney Foster.
80s vs 90s Dance Party
Aug 15 @ 9:00 pm
The Orange Peel

80s vs 90s Dance Party

DJ Oso Rey & DJ Molly Parti

Show: 9pm | Doors: 8pm

The Orange Peel
All Ages
Saturday, August 16, 2025
Bodhi Fest
Aug 16 all-day
Asheville Community Theater

The first annual Bodhi Fest, a Buddhist Arts and Film Festival at Asheville Community Theatre on August 16th, 2025 will be a day of illumination as we explore the gladdening qualities of the human spirit ranging from sweet solitude to ecstatic joy. The program will consist of Buddhist films + Q&A, shorts, a dance workshop, a songwriting workshop, musical performances and more. Crafts, art and food from Buddhist sanghas, artists and local vendors will be shared in the front lobby during the festival.

Enjoy an event of immersion in compassionate-wisdom activities that provoke insight and lift the spirit.

The Woodstock Costume Contest with Sal Landers Weirdly Woodstock!
Aug 16 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
French Broad Brewing

The Woodstock Costume Contest + Live Music by Weirdly Woodstock!

1st Place: $100

2nd Place: $50

3rd Place: $25

FREE YOUR INNER FLOWER-POWERED HIPPIE!

EVERYONE WELCOME — ALL AGES & FRIENDLY PETS!

NO COVER CHARGE!

Featuring the delightfully unpredictable Weirdly Woodstock! with “SparkPlug Sal,” joined by the insanely talented Mark Tumo on sax, keys, and vocals, and percussionist extraordinaire Dave Halstead on drums and percussion!

Located at the edge of Biltmore Village, French Broad River Brewery is your go-to spot for Asheville live music, delicious pizza, craft beer, wines, ciders, and non-alcoholic drinks.

Live Music, costume contest, beer, dance party, and Silly Willie’s Hot Dogs will keep the fun rolling all night long!

 

Shindig On the Green
Aug 16 @ 7:00 pm
Pack Square Park

2025 will be the 59th Season of Shindig On the Green!

Bring your instruments, families, friends, lawn chairs and blankets and join us for good times at the Bascom Lamar Lunsford Stage. In 2025 Shindig on the Green, which features a stage show and informal jam sessions around the park, continues at its original location — formerly known as City County Plaza, now transformed into the new Pack Square Park. Locals and visitors alike come together downtown “along about sundown,” or at 7:00pm for those who wear a watch, until 10:00p.m. Concessions are available. Come experience the beautiful music and dance traditions of Southern Appalachia on a summer evening in the mountains.

Béla Fleck’s Blue Ridge Banjo Concert
Aug 16 @ 7:30 pm
Brevard Music Center
Béla Fleck’s Blue Ridge Banjo Concert

Hosted by 19-time GRAMMY winner Béla Fleck, this concert is the culmination of our renowned banjo camp. Renowned faculty will join Béla and other special guests for a unique performance displaying the wonderful diversity of the banjo.

 

The Redd Volkaert Trio
Aug 16 @ 7:30 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Red Legged Frog Productions Presents: The Redd Volkaert Trio

Saturday August 16, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

From country and western swing to jazz and rock, Redd Volkaert is considered a true giant of country music and the Telecaster guitar. Redd is a Grammy-winner and a guitar-playing legend who is renowned throughout the country music world and beyond.

Volkaert played in Merle Haggard’s backing band The Strangers in the spot previously staffed by Roy Nichols. In addition, he has recorded and performed with a who’s who of country music stars such as George Jones, Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley, Dwight Yoakam, Buck Owens, Alison Krauss, Rhonda Vincent, and many more.

Redd won a Grammy for his own work in 2009, after making an international name for himself as lead guitarist for Merle Haggard.

He has released five CDs on his own and recorded and/or played guitar live with a host of world-class artists.

Don’t miss this incredible artist with his band.

Sunday, August 17, 2025
A Tale of Two
Aug 17 @ 6:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

The Grey Eagle and Chatt Hills Music Present: A Tale of Two

All Ages
Sunday, August 17
Doors: 5:30pm // Show: 6pm

Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event
ALL AGES
SEATED SHOW
Combining the best of Americana and blues melodies with timeless Southern storytelling, award winning vocalist Stephanie Adlington and guitarist Aaron Lessard draw influence from the likes of Tom Waits and Ray LaMontagne, along with bedrock artists such as Patsy Cline and Hank Williams Sr.
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Arbor Evenings
Aug 20 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays through September 18, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

**Please note: Outside alcohol is prohibited on the campus of The North Carolina Arboretum.**

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

Trail Running Film Festival 2025
Aug 20 @ 5:30 pm
The Orange Peel

Trail Running Film Festival 2025

Wednesday, August 20
Show: 5:30pm

The Orange Peel
All Ages

This past year has been a challenging one for our community, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. It’s been a time of deep reflection, rebuilding, and resilience. While we typically host the Trail Running Film Festival in the spring, we knew our community needed more time—to heal, to recover, and to rise. And now, with great care and intention, we are moving forward with a special gathering that honors everything we’ve been through and all that lies ahead.

We’re excited to announce the 2025 Trail Running Film Festival, happening on Wednesday, August 20th at The Orange Peel in Asheville. This year’s event is more than just a night of films—it’s a celebration of the trails that connect us, the strength we’ve rediscovered, and the incredible spirit of our trail running family.

The evening will feature a thoughtfully curated lineup of films showcasing breathtaking adventures, stories of personal transformation, and the powerful bond between people and wild places. These stories will highlight the grit, joy, and heart of a community that keeps showing up—together.

Whether you’re a long-time runner, a curious adventurer, or someone who simply finds solace in nature, this is a night for all of us.
Come be part of something meaningful.

Tyler Hilton: Celebrating the Music of “One Tree Hill”
Aug 20 @ 8:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

The Grey Eagle and Worthwhile Sounds Present: Tyler Hilton: Celebrating the Music of “One Tree Hill”

with Casey McQuillen

All Ages
Wednesday, August 20
Doors: 7pm // Show: 8pm
$35.90 to $97.70

 

Grey Eagle Music Hall
ALL AGES
SEATED SHOW
LIMITED NUMBER OF PREMIUM SEATING TICKETS AVAILABLE
VIP MEET & GREET PACKAGES AVAILABLE INCLUDING:  Early entry, Early merch access, Access to Pre-Show Soundcheck, Photo Op w/ Tyler
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Gardening in the Mountains presents: The Myth of the “Climate Haven”
Aug 21 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Online

Presenters: Drake Fowler, Executive Director, North Carolina Arboretum

Program Description: We often see Asheville, North Carolina, as a “climate haven,” and we were all shaken by the impacts of Hurricane Helene last September.

In this thought-provoking talk, Drake Fowler, the Executive Director of the North Carolina Arboretum, discusses our first-hand experience living through this major geological event and what it reveals about the vulnerability—and potential—of our landscapes.

Learn how local professionals and other specialists are charting a path toward long-term recovery, and explore strategies for building more resilient gardens and communities in a changing climate.

The presentation is free, and registration with Eventbrite is required.

If you have questions, contact the Buncombe County Extension office at 828-255-5522.

2025 Rhythm & Brews Concert Series
Aug 21 @ 5:15 pm – 9:30 pm
South Main Street

The Rhythm & Brews Concert Series unfolds as a casual and welcoming event, occurring on the third Thursday of each month from June to October. South Main Street in Hendersonville transforms into a hub of local entertainment, where community members gather to enjoy live music, craft beverages, and family-friendly activities. Doors open at 5:15 p.m., initiating the evening with an opening act at 5:30 p.m., followed by the headlining performance from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

2025 Rhythm & Brews Concert Series Lineup:

August 21: Maggie Baugh [[Country]] with Blake Ellege & Saddletramp [[Country/Southern Rock]]

September 18: Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast [[Soul Rock]] with Hustle Souls [[Soul/Funk/Americana]]

October 16: BonaFide Soul [[Jazz/Funk/Soul] with Congdon Griffin Band [[Folk/Americana/Rock]]

The Beer & Wine Garden, a focal point for adults, features offerings from local establishments such as Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Bold Rock Hard Cider, Guidon Brewing Co., Oklawaha Brewing Co., Dry Falls Brewery, Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, and Flat Rock Cider Company. Notably, all net proceeds from adult beverage sales contribute to the Friends of Downtown Hendersonville, a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to supporting the Downtown Program.

For families, the Hendersonville Honeycrisps & the Hendersonville Toy Company Kid Zone provide a range of kid-friendly activities, including hula-hooping and interactive exhibits.

Attendees are encouraged to bring camp chairs and picnic blankets to create a relaxed atmosphere. However, coolers and pets are best left at home to ensure the comfort and safety of all participants. Join us for a laid-back summer evening, filled with music, local brews, and community connections in the heart of Hendersonville.

Arbor Evenings
Aug 21 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays through September 18, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

**Please note: Outside alcohol is prohibited on the campus of The North Carolina Arboretum.**

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

WNC Songwriter sessions featuring Karen Cohen, Just Rick & Todd Hoke
Aug 21 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Brandy Bar + Cocktails

Thursday – August 21 – 7-9pm – WNC Songwriter Sessions returns with Karen Cohen, Just Rick, and Todd Hoke. An evening of original songs in the natural acoustics and listening room atmosphere of the beautiful and historic Brandy Bar + Cocktails.
Hidyho Neighbors! Another solid trio of swellegant songwriters will be sharing their lyrical and musical offerings for our August session at the coolest bar in all Hendo. Karen Cohen, Just Rick, and Todd Hoke will entertain you with their tales and tunes. Delicious cocktails + handcrafted songs + friendly folks = time well spent. Join us!
Karen Cohen has honed her own unique finger-style guitar for over 5 decades. Her current passion is writing songs that combine authenticity, emotion, and imagery with beautiful melody. Karen just arrived on the WNC and Upstate SC scene 6 months ago and is generating a lot of excitement at local open mics and songwriter showcases.
Just Rick (aka Rick Reles) is a guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist based in Hendersonville, North Carolina. A lifelong musician and singer-songwriter inspired by the roots of American rock music. He draws from country, blues, bluegrass, rockabilly, and classic rock to craft his growing catalog of original songs. From early bands like Green Steam and Full House to Identity Crisis and IC3, Rick has been a gigging musician. Today he plays solo as well as in Two Step Too and The Right Fit.
Todd Hoke tried therapy but that didn’t work out so he took up the guitar instead and, as of this printing, has remained mostly unincarcerated (a fact his mother loudly boasts about every time her bowling league gathers at the pool hall to play poker and whittle).
With hosts Annie Wenz and Todd Hoke. For more info visit: [email protected]

Arbor Evenings with Asheville Junction
Aug 21 @ 7:30 pm – 8:15 pm
The North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour this Thursday August 21st, all while listening to live music from Asheville Junction Duo 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. There is no additional cost to attend Arbor Evenings beyond the standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from Arbor Evenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

Friday, August 22, 2025
The Learning Garden Presents: Great Pollinator Census in The Learning Garden
Aug 22 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Buncombe County Extension Office — Learning Garden

Support your local pollinators in The Learning Garden and participate in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census. Join us and learn how to identify and count common pollinators and what plants they favor. After a brief presentation we will go out into the garden and count pollinators.

Two (15 minute) counting sessions will be held back to back. Come for the first one or stay for both. Extension Master Gardener volunteers will provide instruction and assist. Your count matters!

Please bring a hat, water bottle and a chair if needed.

The program is free, but participation is limited and registration is required. Details of the program, along with registration instructions are found on the Buncombe County Extension website.

If you encounter problems registering or if you have questions, call 828-255-5522.
Photo by Donna Sapp, Extension Master Gardener volunteer

2025 Block Party
Aug 22 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Pack Square Park

Get Ready for the United for Youth Community Engagement Block Party

Friday, August 22nd, 5:00 PM-8:00 PM, Pack Square Park

 

 

We’re taking the block party to the next level — with live youth performances, mouthwatering food trucks. a DJ keeping the beat, 50+ community info. booths, interactive STEAM and Resiliency zones, kids’ activities, and surprises around every corner.

It’s a celebration of resilience, connection, and community power! Join us for this FREE event where families, friends, neighbors, and partners come together to celebrate what makes our community strong and the unstoppable spirit of United for Youth.

 

Starseed Sound Bath with Levi Reynolds
Aug 22 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Moldavite Life

Starseed Sound Bath with Levi Reynolds

Calling all Starseeds, lightworkers, and cosmic travelers—this is your invitation to a high-frequency sound healing experience designed to awaken your celestial essence and realign your energy with the cosmic flow.

Levi Reynolds will guide you through a multidimensional sound journey using upgraded gongs, sound bowls, and celestial vibrational instruments infused with meteorites and tektites from Mercury, Mars, the Moon, and asteroid Vesta (Tatahouine). These high-vibration frequencies resonate with starseed DNA, activating deep inner wisdom, light codes, and cosmic remembrance.

This experience is designed to help you:
✨ Connect with the cosmic origins of your soul
✨ Activate starseed light codes and higher consciousness
✨ Release stagnant energies and realign with your soul’s mission
✨ Journey through celestial frequencies in a deeply immersive soundscape

Our space is small and cozy, creating an intimate setting for this powerful experience. Arrive early to claim a spot lying down—otherwise, chairs will be available for seating.
Please bring any comfort items you may desire: blankets, pillows, bolsters, eye mask, etc. We also have some community items available for use.

🔹 Tickets: $33 per person
🔹 Purchase upon arrival

Come and bathe in the frequencies of the stars—your soul will remember the way home. 🌌✨

BASK “The Turning” Album Release
Aug 22 @ 7:00 pm
The Orange Peel

BASK “The Turning” Album Release

with
Secret Shame
Generation of Vipers
Tombstone Poetry
Cliff B. Worsham

Friday, August 22
Show: 7pm | Doors: 6pm

The Orange Peel
FREE SHOW!
Five Eight LIVE: Weirdo Movie Screening + PINKEYE Album Release Party
Aug 22 @ 8:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

The Grey Eagle and Worthwhile Sounds Present

Five Eight LIVE: Weirdo Movie Screening + PINKEYE Album Release Party

Doors: 7pm // Show: 8pm
$14.76

Grey Eagle Music Hall
ALL AGES
FEATURING PERFORMANCES FROM FIVE EIGHT & PINEYE, PLUS A SCREENING OF WEIRDO & Q&A WITH THE BAND
Saturday, August 23, 2025
Asheville Community Plant Market
Aug 23 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Asheville Hydroponics & Organics

Join us for our monthly market, where you’ll discover local vendors offering a variety of houseplants, garden plants, and planty-related items, including crafts and jewelry. Show your support by visiting our social table, where we will have branded merchandise for sale to help fund the event, as well as tags for social media pages to follow your favorite vendors. Enjoy live music and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
🅿️Free parking is available! Please park at the front of the building and enter through the hydroponics shop. Vendors will be set up inside the shop as well as outside the back of the shop.