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 21, 2024
Battle of the Badges Blood Drive
Feb 21 @ 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
First Baptist Church

Did you know that just one blood donation can help save up to three lives? The American Red Cross is currently experiencing an emergency blood shortage and reports the nation is facing the lowest number of blood donations in 20 years. If you would like to help, you can donate blood at the upcoming 14th Annual Battle of the Badges, a friendly competition between Buncombe County and Asheville first responders.

Last year, Battle of the Badges was able to collect a total of 160 units of blood that helped change the lives of patients in need. Help us match or exceed that goal during this year’s blood drive.

  • Battle of the Badges Blood Drive 2024
  • Wednesday, Feb. 21
  • 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
  • First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St., in Asheville

You can schedule an appointment at   RedCrossBlood.org and enter “avlbattleofbadges” or call 800-RED-CROSS

Thursday, February 22, 2024
Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic + Feature Comedy at Pulp Lounge
Feb 22 @ 7:00 pm
Pulp Lounge

Standup Comedy featuring Ryan Gordon at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge
When: Thursday February 22, 2024.
7p-9p, doors at 6:30p
Where:
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge, 103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $15 (available at door or The Orange Peel website)
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! Free snacks while availability lasts!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley, featuring Ryan Gordon
Comedy open mic is 3-5m each, comics get in free with free snacks!
FB: https://fb.me/e/4Qdi8lxKy

Host Hilliary Begley-
Hilliary will make you cry with laughter. With her larger that life personality!! Voted repeatedly Asheville’s Favorite comic in the Mountain Xpress. Film debut in the Netflix original Dumplin’ as Aunt Lucy, or “Jennifer Anniston’s fat sister,” In Austin Film Festival winning movie When We Last Spoke with Cloris Leachman, now streaming on Amazon Prime. https ://youtu.be/legRwEg4j-o

Featuring Ryan Gordon-
Born in Western North Cackalacky, Ryan started his comedy journey in nearby Asheville. After gaining traction on social media, he took to the stage to tell his jokes. With over 300K followers across different social media platforms, his videos have been viewed hundreds of millions of times. He has been in a few comedy festivals including the World Series of Comedy and Blue Ridge comedy festival.

Contact Michele at [email protected] for more info!

Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic + Feature Comedy at Pulp Lounge
Feb 22 @ 7:00 pm
Pulp Lounge

Standup Comedy featuring Ryan Gordon at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge
When: Thursday February 22, 2024.
7p-9p, doors at 6:30p
Where:
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge, 103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $15 (available at door or The Orange Peel website)
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! Free snacks while availability lasts!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley, featuring Ryan Gordon
Comedy open mic is 3-5m each, comics get in free with free snacks!
FB: https://fb.me/e/4Qdi8lxKy

Friday, February 23, 2024
Reconnect for Resilience
Feb 23 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
online
Virtual Event
Online via Zoom. Will receive Zoom link upon registration.

Reconnect for Resilience trainings offer community members a set of easy – to- use tools to stay well in the face of adversity. In this 14-hour class, participants will learn what happens when our brains and bodies are stressed, and are given tools to stay healthy, connected, and resilient during tough times.

The tools we teach are intended for everyone, no matter where they are on the stress-trauma continuum, and are designed to bring the nervous system back into balance and help people return to their Resilient Zone.

This two-day virtual training will be held online via Zoom. Please register by visiting bit.ly/RFRFEB24

CEU’s available and limited scholarships available. See more information at the registration page.

Community Health Fair
Feb 23 @ 3:00 pm – 6:30 pm
YWCA of Asheville

We are excited to partner with the Western Carolina University School of Nursing to offer a free Community Health Fair on Friday, Feb. 23, from 3 – 6:30 pm. Drop in any time from 3 – 6:30; we’ll have blood pressure, blood sugar, and mental health screenings, along with cancer prevention and screening. You can sign up for our free community dinners and get community referrals and learn more about community resources. Start the new year out right by taking care of yourself and your loved ones. We’ll see you on February 23rd!

Pardee Hospital Foundation Casino Night
Feb 23 @ 6:00 pm
Burntshirt Vineyards

Pardee Hospital Foundation’s Casino Night will feature casino games with live dealers, musical entertainment, exciting raffle opportunities, delicious food and locally sourced beer and wine. Proceeds from this year’s event will support Pardee’s growing cardiology program. Casino Games will include: Double Roulette Blackjack Full Size Craps Texas Hold’em Don’t miss out on the action, bring your friends, family or office colleagues to enjoy a unique night of fun all for a good cause! By attending or sponsoring this event you are ensuring access to quality and timely Cardiac care here in Western North Carolina.

Saturday, February 24, 2024
Full Moon Breakthrough Breathworkshop with Sound Baths
Feb 24 @ 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
Magictown Movement Studio

To celebrate this February full moon, embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and inner healing through our groundbreaking Breathwork Meditation Workshop including 2 Sound Baths! During this immersive experience you will be guided through a powerful Breathwork practice to help you massively release stress, heal past wounds and traumas, access deeper levels of awareness, and connect more profoundly to Source.

Led by two professional highly experienced facilitators with over 60 years experience between them, this workshop will
deepen your connection with your breath and unlock its incredible potential for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

We are delighted to have Kat Houghton again facilitate sound baths to complete each of the Breathwork Meditation Sessions.

Join a group of like-minded individuals on the path to self-discovery in a supportive nurturing environment on the beautiful island in Marshall on one of the oldest rivers in the world.

You may come to the full day (10am-4.30pm, recommended, ) which includes two Breathwork Meditation Sessions with sound baths and a session of Self-discovery. You may also come to the first Breathwork Meditation Session with sound bath only (10am-1pm,) or the second Breathwork Session with sound bath only (1.30pm-4.30pm.).

Ancient Tools for Personal Empowerment
Feb 24 @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Dobra Tea East

Set within the magical space of the Dobra Tea East, you’ll be transported into an alchemical world designed to empower and uplift your spirit. Topics covered will be the inner alchemy of a soul’s spiritual awakening and the ancient tools that can assist the process.

Sunday, February 25, 2024
Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic + Feature Comedy
Feb 25 @ 6:30 pm
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co

Sunday February 25 Another Great Comedy Show at Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co, Theater 2! 6:30p, 18+, Get Dinner, Drinks & Laughs with the areas best standup comics. Featured and Open Mic Comedy. [Performing comics get FREE entry and pizza. ]
Get Your Tickets Now!! Hosted Mario Trevizo. Featuring Dante’ Quitman, Julia Macias & James Burks!!
For more info and other standup comedy shows go to sliceoflifecomedy.com or contact Michele at [email protected]

Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Free Acupuncture Sessions
Feb 27 all-day
YWCA of Asheville

Thanks to YWCA member Megan Smith, we are partnering with Affordable Acupuncture Asheville to offer a great benefit to our YWCA community. We will offer free 10 minute ear acupuncture sessions Tuesday evenings in February. Megan, one of the co-owners of Affordable Acupuncture Asheville, will be the main facilitator of these sessions. Sessions will be free to both members and non-members. Pre-registration is not required; just come in and sign up for a 10 minute time slot the day-of. The sign up sheet will be in the fitness studio, and sessions are first-come first-serve.

Medicare Basics
Feb 27 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Weaverville Public Library

This presentation is suitable for people new to Medicare, caregivers, people leaving employer health insurance for Medicare, and others who help Medicare beneficiaries.

Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Shamanic Roots in Celtic Folklore: Southern Scotland
Feb 28 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
online

Shamanic Roots in Celtic Folklore: Southern Scotland

Join us for an enchanting online event as we delve into the mystical world of Shamanic Roots in Celtic Folklore, focusing on the captivating traditions of Southern Scotland. Discover the ancient wisdom and practices that have survived through generations, offering a unique insight into the rich tapestry of Celtic culture that endures in these lands.

Immerse yourself in a virtual journey through time, exploring the hidden realms of Scottish folklore. Our storyteller will share their knowledge and experiences, shedding light on the ancient shamanic practices that have shaped the region’s folkways.

From tales of mythical humans to ancient deities, this event will transport you to a world where magic and reality intertwine. Gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between humans, nature, and the spiritual realm.

Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the ancient wisdom of Southern Scotland. Don’t miss out on this captivating journey into the Shamanic Roots of Celtic Folklore!

Thursday, February 29, 2024
Mommy and me exercise
Feb 29 @ 1:00 pm
Sweeten Creek Brewing

Join us for a complimentary and guided exercise class that will last 30 minutes followed by conversation with other moms. You can exercise alone, with baby and stroller, baby resting on a blanket, carrying your baby, or while your little one runs around. All exercises will be standing with concentration on proper form, lower body and proper breathing techniques during the exercises. Modifications will be provided as needed.

Let’s connect and talk about the joys and struggles; birth stories, good and bad; things that are working and not working; life before and after babies; how different life is now compared to expectations you had. Come with questions for other moms. Let’s help each other navigate postpartum

Let’s have a beer!

About me: I’m a physical therapist and new mom with training and experience with pelvic health.

Follow me on instagram @KineticBond

Introduction to Medicare
Feb 29 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
North Asheville Library

Join representatives from the Council on Aging and learn how Medicare works, the enrollment process, how to avoid penalties, and ways to save money.
Great for anyone new to Medicare, caregivers, people leaving employer health insurance for Medicare, and others who help Medicare beneficiaries.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Register online at coabc.org/events or by calling (828) 277-8288

Saturday, March 2, 2024
 Qi Gong
Mar 2 all-day
YWCA of Asheville

We’re excited to offer two new Community Classes starting in March! First up is Community Qi Gong, an eight week course beginning Saturday, March 2. Qi Gong is a holistic set of exercises incorporating various postures and slow physical movements, accompanied by concentration, breathing techniques and meditation. Qi Gong improves balance and coordination, enhances physical and emotional energy, and promotes well-being through an appreciation of the cycles and wisdom of nature. Join instructor David Ezra for this ancient Chinese practice.

Monday, March 4, 2024
Community Nia
Mar 4 all-day
YWCA of Asheville

Next is Community Nia, a six-week course beginning Monday, March 4. Nia is a movement program combining the precision and power of martial arts, the expressiveness of dance, and the nurturing and spiritual aspects of healing. Nia addresses body, mind, emotion, and spirit with movement and creativity. Instructor Carolyn Teeple-Pauly will guide you through the joy of Nia.

Both of these classes are free and open to both members and non-members. Registration is required. Click here to reserve your spot, or email [email protected].

Tuesday, March 5, 2024
GriefShare Support
Mar 5 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Living Savior Lutheran Church

GriefShare is a Christ-centered support group for all people
experiencing grief and loss of a loved one. The next session is scheduled to start Tuesday
afternoons beginning March 5th from 12:00 (noon) to 2:00 PM for 13-weeks and offered by
Living Savior Lutheran Church & Preschool in Asheville. No fees are required. Interested parties
can join this forum at any time through May 28th
.
GriefShare features nationally recognized experts on grief recovery topics. Seminar sessions
include “Is This Normal?” “The Challenges of Grief,” “Grief and Your Relationships,” “Why?”
and “Guilt and Anger.” Meetings will be held at 301 Overlook Road location in South Asheville
– off of Long Shoals Road.
For more information, email us at [email protected]. Brochures are available to distribute
in your organization.
# # #
About Living Savior Lutheran Church:
Living Savior Lutheran Church’s mission is to share the good news of Jesus Christ with all
people. Started in 1977 with two families meeting in their homes, Living Savior has grown from
a location in Hendersonville to 301 Overlook Road in South Asheville and now a second location
is planned in Hendersonville on 200 Upward Road. Living Savior serves as an important
member in the community, serving those around with camps, study, events, weddings, funerals,
baptisms and worship all centered on the love of God in Jesus Christ our Savior. He and his Word
as written are the focus of all that we do. Through our national church body – WELS, Wisconsin
Evangelical Lutheran Synod, we are able to reach people all over the world. We represent over
370,000 men, women, and children in nearly 1300 congregations in North America alone

Innerdance: Altered States of Consciousness with Soundscapes + Energy Work
Mar 5 @ 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
The Horse Shoe Farm Sanctuary

The Innerdance is a music-based, meditative, healing journey, It involves the use of special soundscapes that mimic circadian rhythms and enable people to move effortlessly between different brain wave states. As a result, people experience an expanded sense of awareness and altered states of consciousness.

In this space of unlimited possibilities, very profound and mystical things can happen. Common movements in the Innerdance include drug-free psychedelic experiences, life regressions, circadian rhythms, near-death experiences, kundalini activations, and womb/birth memories.

Benefits may include nervous system regulation, circadian rhythm reset, mental clarity, inner peace, greater neural plasticity, increased intuitive discernment, emotional regulation, improved self-esteem, etc.

Thursday, March 7, 2024
Join the Celebration! Complimentary Pubcycle Rides for Locals
Mar 7 all-day
Amazing Pubcycle

As the hustle and bustle of tourist season approaches, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate the heartbeat of our community—the hardworking locals who make our city vibrant year-round. To celebrate our community, we’re excited to extend an exclusive offer: a complimentary ride along the Pubcycle of fun for all our AMAZING locals!

While many may perceive the pubcycle as a drinking sport, those in the know understand that it embodies much more—it’s a social wagon of fun. Join us on a journey where you’ll find yourself making new friends and discovering intriguing tidbits about our city, all while gracefully exploring the charming streets of downtown Asheville.

Picture this: the excitement of people dancing in the streets, capturing the magic on their phones as the wonder wheels roll by. Experience the awe in the eyes of the youngest members of our community as they encounter the biggest bike ever seen. It’s not just a ride; it’s an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Asheville.

It would mean so much to us if you would share join us for a complimentary pubcycle ride now through March 7 2024 and be a part of the joy that defines our city. Use code ‘localavl24’ at time of booking.

Cheers to our incredible community!
AMAZING PUBCYCLE TEAM

Medicare Basics
Mar 7 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Fairview Public Library 

 

This presentation is suitable for people new to Medicare, caregivers, people leaving employer health insurance for Medicare, and others who help Medicare beneficiaries.

Friday, March 8, 2024
An Afternoon for Lifelong Gardening
Mar 8 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Black Mountain Library

Is gardening becoming more physically challenging as time goes by? Are you concerned with keeping things easy and safe in your garden? Master Gardeners will give you a fresh look at gardening as you and your garden mature.
They’ll share some ways to modify your gardens and some ways to stay physically safe and strong as you work. They’ll discuss tools choices and show some new ergonomic and adaptive tools.
You are sure to come away with a new look at your garden and some great ideas that will keep you gardening for a lifetime.
This is a three-hour program. There will be breaks, snacks and a chance to handle the tools.

Saturday, March 9, 2024
Spring Awakening + Renewal Forest Bathing Retreat
Mar 9 @ 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum
The changing seasons are rich with wisdom and guidance. Winter is a time for rest and dreaming, followed by spring, ripe with opportunities for renewal and growth. Cultivate those winter dreams and invite them to birth into reality during this enlivening afternoon retreat. Let your most authentic Self emerge from within and flourish amidst the beauty of the early spring! New Graph: Your guide, Christa Hebal, will lead you on a gentle journey through the awakening forest, weaving mindfulness, breathwork, forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku) and nature therapy together for a restorative afternoon on some of the trails less traveled at the North Carolina Arboretum. We’ll celebrate the experience in community, enjoying a wild-foraged tea ceremony and snacks. Bring an open mind and an open heart. All are welcome. Presented through Adult & Continuing Education Programs in collaboration with Asheville Wellness Tours.
Christa Hebal is a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. Born and raised in the mountains of NE Tennessee, she has lived in Asheville for 23 years. Christa has an adventurous heart, and loves to help others encounter wholeness through embodiment and nature connection practices. She has had a professional bodywork practice for 17 years as a nationally certified Massage Therapist, and is also a practitioner of Ortho-Bionomy®, Usui Reiki Master, Certified Pediatric Massage Therapist, Clinical Aromatherapist, and Certified Traditional Herbalist. She is also certified in CPR and Wilderness First Aid.

Spring Awakening & Renewal Forest Bathing Retreat | ONSITE | Saturday, March 9, 2 – 5 p.m. Or Saturday, March 23, 2 – 5 p.m.

Sunday, March 10, 2024
Celebrate National Wash Your Nose Day with Xlear!
Mar 10 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Earth Fare

Celebrate National Wash Your Nose Day with Xlear Inc, a pioneer in natural sinus and oral care products. Regular nasal hygiene is a crucial aspect of your daily hygiene routine. Xlear Inc is committed to educating everyone on the importance and benefits of why keeping your nose clean is just as important, if not more important than washing your hands.

Join us for an informative session about Xlear, featuring real-time demonstrations and an opportunity to receive complimentary products. Participants will be gifted a sample of Xlear Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol, which has been shown in studies to prevent viruses and bacteria from attaching to nasal tissues, while also moisturizing dry and irritated nasal passages. Clinical studies have also shown that good nasal hygiene opens the airway by as much as 35%. Our 1.5fl oz metered pump spray bottle is the perfect addition to your daily sinus care routine.

Daily nasal hygiene helps maintain a healthy nasal environment, clearing irritants like mucus, bacteria, viruses, and other debris, thus improving breathing and overall nasal health. This proactive approach can help reduce the risk of serious upper respiratory health issues.

We look forward to having you join us for this important event and sharing more about how Xlear can enhance your overall well-being.

To observe the National Wash Your Nose Day, use #NationalWashYourNoseDay.

Medicare Basics with the Council on Aging
Mar 10 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Enka-Candler Library

The Council on Aging will present an informational session on Medicare. Explaining how it works, the enrollment process, how to avoid penalties, and ways to save money.

Who Should Attend?
People new to Medicare, caregivers, people leaving employer health insurance for Medicare, and others who help Medicare beneficiaries.

This program is free. We ask you register for this event so we know how many people to expect.

How to register-
Go to: www.coabc.org/events/ and click on the Events tab at the top, scroll down the page to find this event and register.
You can also call COABC and register by phone. (828) 277-8288

Monday, March 11, 2024
Mat Pilates
Mar 11 @ 8:30 am – 9:30 am
Happy Body

Discover the transformative power of Mat Pilates focusing on body awareness, toning muscles, improving flexibility, and fostering overall well-being. With exercises performed on a simple mat and utilizing your body weight as resistance, Mat Pilates provides a versatile and accessible fitness option suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced practitioners. Immerse yourself in a holistic approach to fitness and well-being with Mat Pilates – no special equipment required, just your commitment to a healthier, more balanced you.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024
FREE nutritious dinner at the YWCA
Mar 12 @ 5:15 pm – 6:15 pm
YWCA of Asheville
Don’t forget our FREE nutritious dinner at the YWCA thanks to funding from Publix. Enjoy a meal with your neighbors and learn about community resources.  Our next Community Dinner will be Tuesday, March 12, from 5:15 – 6:15Sign up to see the menu and reserve your spot.
Standup Comedy in The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement
Mar 12 @ 7:00 pm
Pulp Lounge

Standup Comedy featuring Allison Shelnut
The Orange Peel’s Pulp
When: Tuesday March 12, 2024.
7p-9p, doors at 6:30p
Where:
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge, 103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $15 (available at door or The Orange Peel website)
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! Free snacks while availability lasts!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley, featuring Allison Shelnut open mic is 3-5m each, comics get in free with free snacks!
Host Hilliary Begley-
Hilliary will make you cry with laughter. With her larger that life personality!! Voted repeatedly Asheville’s Favorite comic in the Mountain Xpress. Film debut in the Netflix original Dumplin’ as Aunt Lucy, or “Jennifer Anniston’s fat sister,” In Austin Film Festival winning movie When We Last Spoke with Cloris Leachman, now streaming on Amazon Prime. https ://youtu.be/legRwEg4j-o
Featuring Allison Shelnut-
Allison once stole a hamster from the mall in Greensboro, North Carolina. It bit her. She deserved it. Allison is now a stand-up comedian based out of Asheville. Allison is known to engage the crowd on a wide range of topics from contraceptives to 90s toys. Outside of comedy you’ll find Allison in the woods with her darling dog, Jacob.
Contact Michele at [email protected] for more info!

Wednesday, March 13, 2024
Medicare Basics
Mar 13 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Enka Candler Library 1404 Sand Hill Road, Candler, North Carolina, United States

 

This presentation is suitable for people new to Medicare, caregivers, people leaving employer health insurance for Medicare, and others who help Medicare beneficiaries.

Thursday, March 14, 2024
Active, But Careful: Falls Prevention 101
Mar 14 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
North Asheville Library
Sign Up

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED

Come join Heather Bauer as we explore the ABCs of falls prevention. Whether you are bringing greater care into your own lives and/or caring for an aging loved one, this session is for anyone of ANY age who is interested in staying strong, grounded, and independent to live as safely and fully as possible!

We will discuss and assess fall risk with nationally recognized tools, share resources, and
practice gentle seated exercises. Each participant will take home a falls risk score, prevention
tools, home safety assessment, and more confidence in why falls may occur – and what we can
do to reduce our risks!

Heather Bauer, BA, is a long-time falls prevention coach and consultant, trained in
evidence-based falls prevention programming with nearly 20 years of experience in aging
services. She is a firm believer in living well at any age.

Qi Gong with Allen Horowitz
Mar 14 @ 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Fairview Library

Qigong is like Yoga but done standing and with more movement so it creates a flow of energy and gently increases circulation throughout your body.

The smooth flowing movements are easy to learn as each exercise is performed 8-10 times before proceeding to the next.

It is the grandfather of Tai Chi and other martial arts and is the self-help aspect of Chinese medicine.

Suitable for all fitness levels, the benefits of well-being, relaxation, calmness and improved balance are often felt often during the very first lesson.  And it can be practiced at home in only a few minutes any time you want to improve how you feel.

For information email [email protected]