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.

Learn about how our hogs are pasture raised from our farm director Asher Wright. He will discuss heritage breeds, health benefits of pasture raised pork and how various inputs on the production side impact the quality of the meat.
MAKE
Make sausages with HNG’s head butchers! Each participant will make their own pork sausage. From grinding to mixing, recipes and proportions, to casings, you’ll learn about it all and do it all too!
EAT
Enjoy a beautiful spread of our in-house made Charcuterie & Sausages and a locally crafted adult beverage of your choice.
TAKE
You’ll take home approximately 5# of pork sausage!

The Feb. 17 presentation will highlight how the design team built on the foundational work from the Haywood and Page Vision Report, their own site research and analysis, and input collected over the past four months to develop draft design concepts for the site. The work-session will be a time for the public to ask questions about the concepts and provide feedback.
The public is encouraged to attend. Online materials and a survey will also be available later in February.
The design team intends to present a conceptual master plan to the City Council in May. The feedback collected from the community during this time period will be used to help create that plan.
Tuesday, Feb. 18 – Drop-in Hours
10 to 11:30 a.m. and
2 to 3:30 p.m.
Free parking will be available for attendees at HomeTrust Bank, 10 Woodfin St. Passes must be printed before and displayed in car windows, click here to print a pass. For more information, please visit this link on the City of Asheville website.
The deadline for applications will be March 6. Applications can be downloaded by visiting this link.
The Asheville Police Department is excited to announce the first offering of a Junior Police Academy. This new program is designed for youth ages 14-19 who have a serious interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement.
Topics will include criminal law, investigations, narcotics, patrol/arrest techniques, and physical training. All classes are designed to incorporate both an academic and hands-on setting.
The Junior Police Academy will be offered at no cost to the participants. The Academy begins on March 30 and runs through April 11. Classes will be held at the Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza, in downtown Asheville, from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings; and from noon to 3 p.m. two Saturdays. Successful completion of the Junior Police Academy is a requirement for participating in the Asheville Police Department’s Explorer program.
There is limited space available for participants. The first 15 approved applicants will be accepted. Applicants who live within the city limits of Asheville will have priority selection. Applicant requirements include:
- GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Must provide at least three references and have parent/guardian approval
- Must have a full physical completed by a physician
This lecture is part of the new Creative Sector Talks series.
Nate McGaha, Executive Director of Arts North Carolina, discusses arts education advocacy and the role it plays in public policy and funding for comprehensive arts education. This presentation will include updates on state and federal policy and funding as it relates to the arts and arts education and provide tools and strategies to engage with elected officials to have a positive impact on the creative education of our students. In addition to training about what individuals can do in their own community, this talk will cover basic organization of advocacy campaigns and how to effectively unite behind a singular message of strengthening the arts in our school. Attendees will also learn more about Arts North Carolina, the only arts and arts education advocacy organization in the state, and how they have been instrumental in advancing government policy and investment in the arts for decades.
Arts North Carolina is the statewide advocacy organization for the arts; a 501(c)(3) organization governed by a statewide Board of Directors. ARTS North Carolina calls for equity and access to the arts for all North Carolinians, unifies and connects North Carolina’s arts communities, and fosters arts leadership.

Nate McGaha, Executive Director of Arts North Carolina, discusses arts education advocacy and the role it plays in public policy and funding for comprehensive arts education. This presentation will include updates on state and federal policy and funding as it relates to the arts and arts education and provide tools and strategies to engage with elected officials to have a positive impact on the creative education of our students. In addition to training about what individuals can do in their own community, this talk will cover basic organization of advocacy campaigns and how to effectively unite behind a singular message of strengthening the arts in our school. Attendees will also learn more about Arts North Carolina, the only arts and arts education advocacy organization in the state, and how they have been instrumental in advancing government policy and investment in the arts for decades.
Speaker: Nate McGaha, Executive Director of Art NC
Arts North Carolina is the statewide advocacy organization for the arts; a 501(c)(3) organization governed by a statewide Board of Directors. ARTS North Carolina calls for equity and access to the arts for all North Carolinians, unifies and connects North Carolina’s arts communities, and fosters arts leadership.
Free event and parking. More Info: HistoryComesAlive.org or 864-244-1499
Join an audience that loves talking back to history to discuss Hedy Lamarr – with Kevin Treu, PhD, Chair of the Computer Science Department at Furman University, longtime Upstate actor, director and playwright and advocate for women in STEM fields.
Who would have believed that “The Most Beautiful Woman in the World,” Hollywood star Hedy Lamarr, was a genuine celling crasher scientist whose groundbreaking invention revolutionized modern communication, and made your cell phone, GPS, and Wi-Fi possible? But there’s no law that says an inventor can’t be beautiful. – Let’s talk about it.
This event is NOT a costumed performance. Hedy Lamarr will be performed by Judith Kalaora in the Chautauqua History Comes Alive Festival (June 12 – 21.)

Kick off spring in the mountains at the 23rd annual French Broad River Festival. It’s part outdoor adventure, part music festival with whitewater rafting, biking, hiking, kid’s village, camping, great music, and much more. Painter John, a popular FBRF musician, compares the atmosphere to “a big potluck at your best friend’s house”. If you’ve been you know . . . what better way to enjoy spring in these mountains?
$120 online by 3/31/20
$125 online by 4/30/20
$140 at gate
$65 Saturday only
$45 whitewater rafting
Connection. A word that by definition means to join together to establish a link, so as to provide access and communication. Connect Beyond Festival has established that link and is using music, film, and storytelling to create connections. More than just an event, Connect Beyond Festival is a movement to develop a network of people inspired by creative mediums and united in the pursuit of equality and social justice. Our goal is to inspire a sense of community and personal engagement.
Lauded as “Asheville’s version of SXSW” (Ashvegas) this event is perfect for those who are looking for a more dynamic festival experience – one that prioritizes exploration and participation just as much as entertainment. If you’re looking to broaden your horizons, to engage with others, and want to leave a festival with more than just a hangover, Connect Beyond Festival is just the place to be.

The exhibit is on loan from the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and has been supplemented with artifacts from the Smith-McDowell House collection. Entrance to the exhibit is included with Smith-McDowell House admission – and is always free for members – and runs through May 16, 2020.
The exhibit seeks to put the local men and women who served in context with the larger events happening in North Carolina, the United States, and the world. In the exhibit, visitors will find displays and interactive elements telling the stories of just a few of our hometown heroes.
Maxime Lamoureux-St-Hilaire is visiting assistant professor in archaeology in the Anthropology Department of Davidson College. He received his Ph.D. from Tulane University (2018), his M.A. from Trent University (2011), and B.Sc. from Université de Montréal (2008). Lamoureux-St-Hilaire has a keen interest for cross-cultural comparisons in archaeology and is most fascinated by how ancient governments worked. Specifically, he studies the structure of Classic Maya royal courts as evidenced by their regal palaces. Most recently, he has excavated the regal palace of La Corona, Guatemala, although his archaeological path has also led him to work in Belize, Mexico, Honduras, and Québec.
This lecture is co-sponsored by UNC Asheville’s Department of Classics and Western North Carolina Chapter of the Archaeological Institute of America. For more information, contact UNC Asheville Lecturer in Art and Classics Laurel Taylor, [email protected] or 828.251.6290.
Visitor Parking on the UNC Asheville Campus – Visitors may park in faculty/staff and non-resident lots from 5:00 p.m. until 7:30 a.m., Monday through Friday, and on weekends, holidays, and campus breaks. Visitors are not permitted to park in resident student lots at any time.
The deadline for applications will be March 6. Applications can be downloaded by visiting this link.
The Asheville Police Department is excited to announce the first offering of a Junior Police Academy. This new program is designed for youth ages 14-19 who have a serious interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement.
Topics will include criminal law, investigations, narcotics, patrol/arrest techniques, and physical training. All classes are designed to incorporate both an academic and hands-on setting.
The Junior Police Academy will be offered at no cost to the participants. The Academy begins on March 30 and runs through April 11. Classes will be held at the Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza, in downtown Asheville, from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings; and from noon to 3 p.m. two Saturdays. Successful completion of the Junior Police Academy is a requirement for participating in the Asheville Police Department’s Explorer program.
There is limited space available for participants. The first 15 approved applicants will be accepted. Applicants who live within the city limits of Asheville will have priority selection. Applicant requirements include:
- GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Must provide at least three references and have parent/guardian approval
- Must have a full physical completed by a physician

The exhibit is on loan from the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and has been supplemented with artifacts from the Smith-McDowell House collection. Entrance to the exhibit is included with Smith-McDowell House admission – and is always free for members – and runs through May 16, 2020.
The exhibit seeks to put the local men and women who served in context with the larger events happening in North Carolina, the United States, and the world. In the exhibit, visitors will find displays and interactive elements telling the stories of just a few of our hometown heroes.
We are proud to present, in partnership with The Collider; February’s Science Pub –Climate Change and Your Health.
WNC Climate and Health Workgroup is a local collaborative of scientists, clinicians and public health leaders who engage with the public and policymakers around the region regarding impacts of climate change on human health, providing potential solutions and co-benefits of resilience planning.
This month come explore the ways in which climate change and weather are already impacting our nation’s health and what health impacts residents in WNC might expect in the future.
The presentation will end showcasing ways in which attendees can get involved in local climate action efforts and be part of the larger conversation. The talk will equip you with a more comprehensive view in support of when we protect the plant, we protect our health and the health of future generations.
Join us on Thursday, February 20, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
*Doors will open at 5:30 pm (presentation begins at 6:00 pm)
The Comedy Show will see the historic YMI Cultural Center expand its program offerings to include a monthly night of gut-wrenching laughter featuring comedians of color. Presented in partnership with JAWBREAKING.xyz and Modelface Comedy & Events, The Comedy Show will be a night of comedy on the YMI’s main stage, featuring rising comedy stars from all over the country.
February’s show will be hosted by Asheville comic Petey Smith-McDowell and feature Tiffany Anderson, Kourtlyn Wiggins and Comedy Central’s Mia Jackson.
Mia Jackson is a bonafide Georgia peach (that’s Georgian for “native”) and self proclaimed know-it-all. After graduating from the University of Georgia she hit the local comedy scene and has thrilled audiences since day one. To her credit she has appeared on NickMom’s Night Out, Viceland and was a semi-finalist on Season 9 of NBC’s Last Comic Standing. She has appeared on Inside Amy Schumer and the movie Mother’s Day. In 2017, she was named a New Face at the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal and Atlanta’s Creative Loafing named her the city’s Best Stand-Up. Her Comedy Central Half Hour special premiered this past fall. Smart, funny, and versatile, Mia entertains all types of crowds.
ages 18+
Tickets $20 advance, $25 day of
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-comedy-show-tickets-89938018033

The exhibit is on loan from the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and has been supplemented with artifacts from the Smith-McDowell House collection. Entrance to the exhibit is included with Smith-McDowell House admission – and is always free for members – and runs through May 16, 2020.
The exhibit seeks to put the local men and women who served in context with the larger events happening in North Carolina, the United States, and the world. In the exhibit, visitors will find displays and interactive elements telling the stories of just a few of our hometown heroes.
This class will explain how Medicare works, the enrollment process, how to avoid penalties, and ways to save money. People who are new to Medicare, caregivers, and others who help senior citizens with their Medicare insurance should consider attending this informative class. The information presented is unbiased and accurate. No products are sold, recommended, or endorsed.

Homecoming 2020: February 17 – 22
We aim to celebrate Homecoming traditions and instill Bulldog pride in all members of the University of North Carolina Asheville community through community engagement with students, staff, faculty, alumni, and the Asheville region. Homecoming at UNC Asheville is special time of the year, providing us an opportunity to reflect on the storied history of UNC Asheville, celebrate the present moment and the impact it has on our university community, and look to the future as we honor the Bulldog way of the liberal arts experience. Promoting Bulldog spirit sits at the heart of our Homecoming celebration, with events open to all members of our community. We hope to see you back on the mountain as we continue to grow Bulldog pride in all near and far!

Join us for an evening program about the large canines of the southern Appalachians! We will begin with a presentation on red and gray wolf ecology and biology, including dentition and track identification, then venture outside to explore the park at night and see if we can hear our resident wolves howl! Please keep in mind this is an educational experience geared towards adults.
Joe Zimmerman grew up in Morgantown, West Virginia, and started his comedy career in North Carolina. While living in the South, his stand-up group the Beards of Comedy landed a record deal with Comedy Central Records. He moved to New York City in 2012, quickly appearing on The Late Late Show and John Oliver’s New York Stand-Up Show, as well as performing at Montreal’s prestigious Just for Laughs festival. His resume has since grown to include The Tonight Show, Conan, Nickelodeon, Last Comic Standing, and his own Comedy Central Half Hour. Joe’s solo album Smiling at Wolves reached number two on the iTunes comedy charts and is played regularly on SiriusXM. (His second, Innocence, is due this summer on Comedy Central Records.) He has also contributed humor pieces to The New York Times.
Joe’s new podcast, “A Great Listening Experience” details his questionable attempts to attain infinite knowledge and power. Among his many podcast & radio appearances, he has recently appeared on 2 Dope Queens, The Dork Forest, Bob & Tom, The Todd Barry Podcast, and The Artie Lange Show. Joe is frequently touring, headlining clubs around the country, and occasionally opening for super stars Brian Regan and Ricky Gervais.
“The combination of Joe’s calming vocalization and inventive writing is a thing of magic. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more enjoyable show.”
-Buzzfeed
ages 18+
Tickets $12 advance, $15 day of
Friday: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lazoom-comedy-joe-zimmerman-friday-tickets-87501546481
Saturday: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lazoom-comedy-joe-zimmerman-saturday-tickets-87502748075
The deadline for applications will be March 6. Applications can be downloaded by visiting this link.
The Asheville Police Department is excited to announce the first offering of a Junior Police Academy. This new program is designed for youth ages 14-19 who have a serious interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement.
Topics will include criminal law, investigations, narcotics, patrol/arrest techniques, and physical training. All classes are designed to incorporate both an academic and hands-on setting.
The Junior Police Academy will be offered at no cost to the participants. The Academy begins on March 30 and runs through April 11. Classes will be held at the Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza, in downtown Asheville, from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings; and from noon to 3 p.m. two Saturdays. Successful completion of the Junior Police Academy is a requirement for participating in the Asheville Police Department’s Explorer program.
There is limited space available for participants. The first 15 approved applicants will be accepted. Applicants who live within the city limits of Asheville will have priority selection. Applicant requirements include:
- GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Must provide at least three references and have parent/guardian approval
- Must have a full physical completed by a physician

Kick off spring in the mountains at the 23rd annual French Broad River Festival. It’s part outdoor adventure, part music festival with whitewater rafting, biking, hiking, kid’s village, camping, great music, and much more. Painter John, a popular FBRF musician, compares the atmosphere to “a big potluck at your best friend’s house”. If you’ve been you know . . . what better way to enjoy spring in these mountains?
$120 online by 3/31/20
$125 online by 4/30/20
$140 at gate
$65 Saturday only
$45 whitewater rafting
Connection. A word that by definition means to join together to establish a link, so as to provide access and communication. Connect Beyond Festival has established that link and is using music, film, and storytelling to create connections. More than just an event, Connect Beyond Festival is a movement to develop a network of people inspired by creative mediums and united in the pursuit of equality and social justice. Our goal is to inspire a sense of community and personal engagement.
Lauded as “Asheville’s version of SXSW” (Ashvegas) this event is perfect for those who are looking for a more dynamic festival experience – one that prioritizes exploration and participation just as much as entertainment. If you’re looking to broaden your horizons, to engage with others, and want to leave a festival with more than just a hangover, Connect Beyond Festival is just the place to be.
Environmental Education is crucial to what RiverLink does. We believe that in order for someone to protect their environment, they must first understand it. Our education programs focus on getting students out in the watershed for hands-on experiential learning. We help students foster a love and appreciation for their water resources by allowing them to see, hear and interact with their local waterways. As a result of engaging with our program we hope that students will be inspired to become the next generation of watershed stewards.

Rosetta’s Kitchen presents Late Nite, an after-hours monthly pop-up!
In February, we’ll kick off the year with a Mardi Gras Kick-Off Party.
Friday, February 21st
10:30pm – 2:30am
Live Music
Late Nite Munchie Menu
Full Bar & $5 Cocktail Specials
Costumes if ya wanna!
FREE!
Come party with us!
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UPDATED INFO:
To make the transition from this year to the 2021 event as seamless and exciting as possible, we have already worked with our artists, our brewers, and our vendors to make sure that we are able to carry over this year’s lineup and infrastructure to next year’s festival date. In addition, we are also in conversation with Eventbrite regarding the best options we can offer you when it comes to making a choice about how your ticket investment plays out.
Because this decision affects you as much as it does us, we will offer full refunds of all ticket purchases to any of you who would prefer that option. We understand the inconvenience that this change might cause you, and we ask that you offer us your patience while we organize that process. As another option, we would also like to offer you the opportunity to retain your ticket purchase and to roll it over into next year’s attendance. Any ticket that has already been purchased for 2020 will be honored at our 2021 festival in lieu of a refund. That is a choice we are allowing you to make, and we will be delighted to have you back as our guests then!
Please check back with us often as we continue to plan for the 2021 (“unofficial 10th Anniversary”) North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival. Again, thank you for your patience and understanding, but mostly for your continued support at the festival. We couldn’t keep putting on this event without you, and we continue to be thankful year after year.
Along with a rich Americana lineup, North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival also shines a spotlight on local brewers and their contribution to North Carolina’s vibrant culinary scene. Over 50 breweries offering a selection of craft beers will be featured on-site throughout the weekend. Tasting tickets, which include access to beer samples plus a commemorative sampling glass, are available for purchase for $50 ($39 for early birds).
North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival began as a fundraising effort to preserve the historic site of Rural Hill. The site, which boasts extensive hiking trails, is a beloved landmark in the Central NC region and is home to many educational field trips and events. Since its inception, the North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival has continued to support the awareness of Rural Hill and attract diverse crowds from all over the country.
Friday music-only passes with sets from Acoustic Syndicate and Fireside Collective are $15. Saturday music-only passes with sets from the Steep Canyon Rangers and Hayes Carll are $22 for early birds. For attendees who would like to sample an unlimited assortment of celebrated North Carolina brews on Saturday, Tasting Tickets (which include daily entrance to the festival for music happenings) are available at the Early Bird price of $39. Camping options are available for attendees who would like to make the most of their weekend. Two-Day weekend tent camping, premium tent camping, and RV/Camper camping with hook-ups are available for $45, $65, and $85 respectively. North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival is a family-friendly event. Children 4 and under are free. A Children’s Ticket is available for kids 5 – 15 for $8.



