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.
Director: Zach Eden When the Soady clan reunites for the opening day of deer season at the family’s Upper Peninsula camp, thirty-five year old Reuben Soady brings with him the infamous reputation of being the oldest Soady in the history of the Soadys never to bag a buck. In the hunting story to beat all hunting stories, ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT spins a hilarious tale of humor, horror and heart as Reuben goes to any and all lengths to remove himself from the wrong end of the family record book. Not included in Season Ticket Subscriptions
a world premiere by honor moor
The Mountain Political Action Committee has to meet again to protect Asheville – In the Nick of Time! This group of local native Democrats will have to take matters into their own hands in order to stop threats of facism. Per usual, their mountain, southern, un-orthodox ways of handling a tough situation is the only way to stop it from happening. Fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the hilarity of the true south that is often hidden in plain sight in Asheville. Run, don’t walk, and get your ticket for what is becoming a local favorite!
“Mixed Fandango,” a new play exploring the unique but universal aspects of romantic love. Three couples confront family, relationships, and loss in the days before Thanksgiving; but things get complicated as this structurally unique play mixes and matches lovers!
Performed in 35below
Ellipsis Theatre Company (Lobby Hero, Oleanna, The Mercy Seat) specializes in producing thought-provoking contemporary American drama. They return to 35below with The God of Hell, which asks the question; is there a state religion in America, and if so what is it? Written by Sam Shepard; directed by David Sebren.
About This Trip
Over 90,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2018 and we hope to see you in 2019! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ begins November 8, 2019, and operates through December 31, 2019.
We are still in need of volunteers for the parade coming up on November 23rd. If you can help us spread the word or come give us a hand it would be greatly appreciated. We are looking forward to this years parade “Peace on Earth” theme and can’t wait to see everyone.
As always thank you for your support, we couldn’t do our events without our volunteers help!
Known for its monumental scale of traditional holiday décor and dazzling lights, this year Biltmore’s annual Christmas at Biltmore celebration will offer even more than ever before.
A yuletide feast for the senses, Christmas at Biltmore begins Nov. 1, 2019. One week later, on Nov. 8, the estate will welcome Downton Abbey: The Exhibition, an immersive experience that celebrates the global hit television series and new feature film.
Biltmore House aglow with five dozen Christmas trees
Biltmore House interiors will shine with the sparkle of more than 50 hand-decorated Christmas trees, ribbons and garlands measured by the mile, and thousands of lights. A majestic 35-foot Fraser fir in the Banquet Hall is the home’s holiday centerpiece. For the first time, hand-decorated Christmas trees will be displayed on the balcony that wraps around the home’s two-story Library.
Candlelight Christmas Evenings
During Candlelight Christmas Evenings, candlelight, firelight, and live music will create a magical environment that elevates seasonal celebrations inside Biltmore House. A 55-foot Norway Spruce on the home’s front lawn lit with 55,000 lights will greet guests as they arrive to enter Biltmore House.
The warm welcome continues at Antler Hill Village & Winery with a constellation of holiday lights leading to the Winery and estate restaurants. A towering tree of lights will illuminate the Village Green, with a sea of lighted grapevine spheres nestled in the landscaping. Lights cascading from the trees that surround the bonfire area near Antler Hill Barn will offer a unique touch to the experience.
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition will feature interactive elements that connect fans to their favorite characters, fashions, locations, and historic events of the era. Showcased in two estate locations, the exhibition pairs seamlessly with the real-life story of the Vanderbilt family at Biltmore. Amherst at Deerpark will host multimedia presentations and some of the series’ most recognizable sets—including Mrs. Patmore’s hectic kitchen and the gossip-fueled servants’ quarters. At The Biltmore Legacy in Antler Hill Village, a gallery of more than 50 costumes from the series will be on view.
The exhibition will run through April 7, 2020. Access to Downton Abbey: The Exhibition is included with daytime admission, Candlelight Christmas Evenings admission, or an overnight stay that includes daytime admission.
Christmas at Biltmore 2019 Event Calendar
- Christmas at Biltmore daytime experience – Nov. 1, 2019, through Jan. 5, 2020
- Candlelight Christmas Evenings nighttime experience – Nov. 1, 2019, through Jan. 4, 2020
- Illumination of Antler Hill Village – Nov. 1, 2019, through Jan. 4, 2020, 5:30 p.m. to midnight
- Downton Abbey: The Exhibition at Biltmore’s Amherst and the Biltmore Legacy in Antler Hill Village – Nov. 8, 2019, through April 7, 2020
- A Gardener’s Place How-to Seminar: “Illuminated Holiday Tablescapes” – daily Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2019, at 1:30 p.m.
- Conservatory’s annual seasonal display – Nov. 1, 2019, through Jan. 5, 2020
- Complimentary wine tasting at Biltmore Winery. Winery specialty tours available with additional price and reservations required – Nov. 1, 2019, through Jan. 5, 2020
- Bonfires in Antler Hill Village with s’mores kits available for purchase at The Creamery – Nov. 1, 2019, through Jan. 3, 2020, select dates, 3 to 10 p.m.
- Roving Holiday Carolers in Antler Hill Village – select dates
- Candlelight Winery Tour with a look into the winemaking process and tasting with light cheese pairing. Additional price and reservations required.
- Visits with Santa at the bandstand in Antler Hill Village – select dates
- The Inn on Biltmore Estate’s Annual Gingerbread House Tea – additional price and reservations required – Dec. 14 through 22, 2019, select dates, 1 to 3 p.m.
- Festive holiday meals prepared by award-winning chefs served in all of the estate’s restaurants – ongoing
Girls on the Run Annual Holiday Wreath Sale: Reserve your locally-harvested 22” Fraser Fir wreath for $25. Call the Girls on the Run office at 828-713-4290 for more information. Wreaths will also be available for purchase at the Girls on the Run 5K.
Friday, November 8th: Shop at the new Athleta store in Biltmore Park anytime on Friday. A percentage of sales will be donated to GOTR.
Tuesday, November 19th: Shop at the Asheville Outlets Vineyard Vines store on the 19th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The store will donate 20% of sales to GOTR.
“Dressing for the Occasion” offers visitors a window into the style, culture, and feel of mid-century America. The family’s clothing and accessories weave together the roles of Carl Sandburg as a prominent writer, celebrity, father, and husband. This temporary exhibit offers an exciting opportunity for the public to view objects that are normally in storage or in the possession of Sandburg family members. Tours of the Sandburg Home are offered daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Tickets are available first come, first served, each day from the visitor information area in the ground level of the Sandburg Home.
Nearly every room in the historically furnished house museum will be included in the exhibit. Visitors will see the characteristic scarves Carl Sandburg wore as he played his guitar and sang folk songs to entertain his family and guests, the dress Lilian Sandburg wore to meet President Lyndon B. Johnson, and many other mid-century pieces worn by the Sandburgs and their daughters. Historic photographs, paired with the clothing, will provide context.
Just hear those sleigh bells jingling all the way to Asheville Mall! Santa Claus is on his way to Asheville, and we’re celebrating his arrival on Saturday, November 16. Your little elves-in-training are invited to visit Santa at Center Court, near Barnes & Noble and ULTA, to share their Christmas lists and holiday wishes.
Santa will be available from November 16th to December 24th, when he begins his holiday trek around the world. Your elves-in-training can visit with Santa Monday through Saturday from 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 5pm, and 6pm to 9pm; and Sundays from noon to 3pm and 4pm to 6pm.
November 16 through December 24, 2019
11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday, Sundays, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Christmas Eve, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. inside Food Court
FREE Santa Photos are back! From November 16th through December 24th, every family who visits Santa will receive two FREE 4”x6” Santa photo prints and a digital download of a single image. Additional photos and Christmas merchandise are available for purchase. FREE Santa Photo is located inside the Food Court and is sponsored by N.C. Arboretum Winter Lights.
Director: Zach Eden When the Soady clan reunites for the opening day of deer season at the family’s Upper Peninsula camp, thirty-five year old Reuben Soady brings with him the infamous reputation of being the oldest Soady in the history of the Soadys never to bag a buck. In the hunting story to beat all hunting stories, ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT spins a hilarious tale of humor, horror and heart as Reuben goes to any and all lengths to remove himself from the wrong end of the family record book. Not included in Season Ticket Subscriptions
Book by Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty
Music by Stephen Flaherty
Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens
Co-conceived by Eric Idle
Based on the works of Dr. Seuss
Directed by Shelia Sumpter
The Performing Arts Center Main Stage
Join us as we bring the magical world of Dr. Seuss to life in this hit Broadway Musical featuring our talented KIDS AT HART.
Journey with us to Narnia, the iconic land of mystery and magic as we present The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The classic coming-of-age story by C.S. Lewis begins on a rainy afternoon when four children discover a wardrobe that transports them to this magical world. With every step they take into this new, fantastical land, the children must learn the difference between good and evil and how to stand up for what is right. Will the strength of goodness prevail in the face of cold, heartless evil? Find out in this fantasy adventure for the whole family!
Jack and Annie are two siblings who have found a magic tree house filled with books! As they read a book about knights and the middle ages, Annie is intrigued by the Black Knight and the mysterious quest one must successfully complete before becoming a knight. When she wishes to visit the castle in the book, the siblings are whisked away to medieval times. They set off to learn more about the Black Knight and his quest, experiencing a grand medieval feast, escaping through secret tunnels and dancing with enchanted suits of armor, all in an effort to find their way back home.
Magic Tree House: The Knight at Dawn KIDS is an adaptation of the second of Mary Pope Osborne’s award-winning fantasy adventure books from the Magic Tree House book series, which has sold more than 100 million copies and is available in more than 100 countries around the world.
Presented by students ages 8-12 in our Tanglewood Youth Production Class.
Performed in 35below
Ellipsis Theatre Company (Lobby Hero, Oleanna, The Mercy Seat) specializes in producing thought-provoking contemporary American drama. They return to 35below with The God of Hell, which asks the question; is there a state religion in America, and if so what is it? Written by Sam Shepard; directed by David Sebren.
a world premiere by honor moor
The Mountain Political Action Committee has to meet again to protect Asheville – In the Nick of Time! This group of local native Democrats will have to take matters into their own hands in order to stop threats of facism. Per usual, their mountain, southern, un-orthodox ways of handling a tough situation is the only way to stop it from happening. Fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the hilarity of the true south that is often hidden in plain sight in Asheville. Run, don’t walk, and get your ticket for what is becoming a local favorite!
About This Trip
Over 90,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2018 and we hope to see you in 2019! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ begins November 8, 2019, and operates through December 31, 2019.
About This Trip
Over 90,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2018 and we hope to see you in 2019! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ begins November 8, 2019, and operates through December 31, 2019.
Asheville’s monthly all queer stand up comedy showcase! This months headliner is Bobby Higley
“Bobby Higley turns anxiety, depression, and PTSD into comedy Gold.” – Stranger Magazine
Bobby Higley is wild eyed, sassy, gay-ex-Mormon, middle child of 7. Fashionable, dark, & deeply irreverent. Picture abused gender-bent Martha Stuart. Played by a Sassy Stoner Twink, post-prison.
Bobby’s been a participant of both the Midwest and Portland Queer Comedy Festivals, Mutiny Radio Comedy Festival, & the Altercations festival in Austin.
He regularly features & headlines in the PNW & has opened for Sandra Valls, Patti Harrison, Matteo Lane, Derek Sheen, Sabrina Jalees, & BenDeLaCreme. He also runs the successful traveling Kink/Consent comedy show “Safeword” & Gutter Twink Productions.
Bobby is also a recurring personality on Cut Casting, and his Youtube videos have gotten over 34 million views.
Featuring Jenn Snyder
Hosted by Moira Goree
Tickets $7 advance, $10 day of; visit www.eventbrite.com/e/queer-comedy-party-ft-bobby-higley-tickets-71315038199.
About This Trip
Over 90,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2018 and we hope to see you in 2019! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ begins November 8, 2019, and operates through December 31, 2019.
We are still in need of volunteers for the parade coming up on November 23rd. If you can help us spread the word or come give us a hand it would be greatly appreciated. We are looking forward to this years parade “Peace on Earth” theme and can’t wait to see everyone.
As always thank you for your support, we couldn’t do our events without our volunteers help!
Girls on the Run Annual Holiday Wreath Sale: Reserve your locally-harvested 22” Fraser Fir wreath for $25. Call the Girls on the Run office at 828-713-4290 for more information. Wreaths will also be available for purchase at the Girls on the Run 5K.
Friday, November 8th: Shop at the new Athleta store in Biltmore Park anytime on Friday. A percentage of sales will be donated to GOTR.
Tuesday, November 19th: Shop at the Asheville Outlets Vineyard Vines store on the 19th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The store will donate 20% of sales to GOTR.
“Dressing for the Occasion” offers visitors a window into the style, culture, and feel of mid-century America. The family’s clothing and accessories weave together the roles of Carl Sandburg as a prominent writer, celebrity, father, and husband. This temporary exhibit offers an exciting opportunity for the public to view objects that are normally in storage or in the possession of Sandburg family members. Tours of the Sandburg Home are offered daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Tickets are available first come, first served, each day from the visitor information area in the ground level of the Sandburg Home.
Nearly every room in the historically furnished house museum will be included in the exhibit. Visitors will see the characteristic scarves Carl Sandburg wore as he played his guitar and sang folk songs to entertain his family and guests, the dress Lilian Sandburg wore to meet President Lyndon B. Johnson, and many other mid-century pieces worn by the Sandburgs and their daughters. Historic photographs, paired with the clothing, will provide context.
Just hear those sleigh bells jingling all the way to Asheville Mall! Santa Claus is on his way to Asheville, and we’re celebrating his arrival on Saturday, November 16. Your little elves-in-training are invited to visit Santa at Center Court, near Barnes & Noble and ULTA, to share their Christmas lists and holiday wishes.
Santa will be available from November 16th to December 24th, when he begins his holiday trek around the world. Your elves-in-training can visit with Santa Monday through Saturday from 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 5pm, and 6pm to 9pm; and Sundays from noon to 3pm and 4pm to 6pm.
November 16 through December 24, 2019
11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday, Sundays, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Christmas Eve, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. inside Food Court
FREE Santa Photos are back! From November 16th through December 24th, every family who visits Santa will receive two FREE 4”x6” Santa photo prints and a digital download of a single image. Additional photos and Christmas merchandise are available for purchase. FREE Santa Photo is located inside the Food Court and is sponsored by N.C. Arboretum Winter Lights.
About This Trip
Over 90,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2018 and we hope to see you in 2019! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ begins November 8, 2019, and operates through December 31, 2019.
Pets must be on a leash or in a carrier, and pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Pets will not be allowed in any area of the mall other than the designated Santa photo area for any reason. We appreciate your understanding.
Photo packages will be available for purchase. For additional details, visit: https://bit.ly/30ZqMfr
Pets love Santa, too! Pet Photo Nights at Asheville Mall are the perfect way to capture purrfectly adorable photo memories of your furry friend with the big man in red! We welcome your four-legged family members to visit Santa Claus during our Pet Photo Nights, which are Monday evenings from 6pm – 9pm all season long. *All pets must be on a leash or crated prior to their visit with Santa.
Pet Photo Dates Are as Follows:
Monday, November 18
Monday, November 25
Monday, December 2
Monday, December 9
Monday, December 16
About This Trip
Over 90,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2018 and we hope to see you in 2019! The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ begins November 8, 2019, and operates through December 31, 2019.