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.

Friday, November 23, 2018
THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride
Nov 23 all-day

All Aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS! This memorable journey will take you on an incredible journey! Believe the magic this Holiday season!

Over 88,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2017 and we hope to see you in 2018! 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 9, 2018, and operates through December 31, 2018.

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration (November)
Nov 23 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Biltmore

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Sunday, January 6, 2019 (daily)

*Included with estate admission.
*Does not include “Candlelight Christmas Evenings”

Experience the holidays wreathed with the wonder of Biltmore. Our celebration presents Christmas on a grand scale with more than 55 trees decorated by our talented staff, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Festive menus in our restaurants and holiday wine tastings make for a memorable visit.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/148458802536575/?event_time_id=247333669315754

In Times of Seismic Sorrows
Nov 23 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Center for Craft

When reflecting on the current state of the environment, it seems that we have entered into times of seismic sorrows. Carbon emissions, water pollution, fracking, and changing climate patterns all point to a troubling reality with serious consequences for human and non-human populations. Through weavings, installations, sculpture, and print, artists Rena Detrixhe and Tali Weinberg (Tulsa, OK) explore the complex relationship between humans and the planet, offering insights, expressing grief, and creating space for resilience and change.

In Time of Seismic Sorrows is curated by Marilyn Zapf and organized by the Center for Craft. The Center for Craft is supported in part by the N.C. Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

12th Annual Lynn Boggess Exhibition At The Haen Gallery
Nov 23 @ 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
The Haen Gallery

The Haen Gallery, located in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, is proud to present their 12th Annual Lynn Boggess Exhibition. The exhibit will run through November.

Lynn Boggess is one of the most unique and noteworthy American landscape painters of the 21st Century. He resides in West Virginia, a state whose diverse mountains, forests, and rivers provide abundant inspiration for the artist’s plein air paintings. In place of brushes he uses palette knives and trowels to thickly layer the broad sweeping strokes and exquisite fine detail that capture all the colors of the seasons in rushing rivers, snow covered hillsides, and thick forest vegetation. Mr. Boggess’ work is recognized internationally for its incredible three-dimensional texture, rendered solely in oils. These remarkable paintings combine elements of Abstract Expressionism and Photorealism to create a style that is totally unique and original.

The Haen Gallery in Asheville is located at 52 Biltmore Avenue between City Bakery and Chestnut. There is a parking garage at the Aloft hotel across the street, another garage just up the hill, as well as street parking.

The gallery is open Monday through Saturday 11am-6pm & Sunday 12-5pm. For more information: 828-254-8577 or www.thehaengallery.com. Gallery contacts: Chris Foley, Director; Leslie Logemann, Gallery Manager.

With locations in Asheville and Brevard, The Haen Gallery offers the work of established artists whose distinctive and unique style sets it apart from ordinary and imitative efforts. Visit the website at thehaengallery.com.

Lights Before Christmas at Riverbanks Zoo
Nov 23 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Riverbanks Zoo
Bring the kids and the camera and see why Lights Before Christmas has continued as a family tradition for 30 years!

  • Nearly one million twinkling lights
  • Countless decorative images
  • Holly Jolly Christmas Parade
  • Animated Story Tree
  • Animal Characters
  • Nightly visits with Santa (start at 6:00PM through December 23)
  • Warm memories and holiday cheer around the Jingle Bell Bonfire
  • Hot cocoa, s’mores and other festive foods available for purchase

While you may spot a few night owls during Lights, most of our residents will be off-exhibit to catch some zzz’s.

Tweetsie Christmas
Nov 23 @ 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tweetsie Railroad

Open 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. Advance Tickets Required. Enjoy the wonder of the park dazzlingly lit for the holidays, with a nighttime train and more.

Candlelight Christmas Evenings (November)
Nov 23 @ 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Biltmore

Candlelight Christmas Evenings*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Saturday, January 5, 2019 (Select Dates)

*Check website for availability/dates
*By reservation only.
*Pricing varies by date.

Candlelight, firelight, and live music bring holiday warmth to the extravagant holiday décor of Biltmore House, creating an evening to remember. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. Advance reservations are required for evening visits.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/2014125145534975/?event_time_id=2167409586873196

Downtown’s Holiday Street Lighting
Nov 23 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Historic Courthouse Square

Downtown’s Holiday Street Lighting kicks off the season with Christmas songs, hot drink and delicious treats, shopping and a countdown as Santa arrives to light up Main Street. Free visits with Santa and carriage rides at 5:30 at the Historic Courthouse on Main St.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1777556512546571/

David Wilcox’s Annual Thanksgiving Homecoming Concert at The Grey Eagle
Nov 23 @ 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

David Wilcox’s Annual Thanksgiving Homecoming Concert at The Grey Eagle

https://www.facebook.com/events/577899789279037/

Saturday, November 24, 2018
THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride
Nov 24 all-day

All Aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS! This memorable journey will take you on an incredible journey! Believe the magic this Holiday season!

Over 88,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2017 and we hope to see you in 2018! 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 9, 2018, and operates through December 31, 2018.

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration (November)
Nov 24 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Biltmore

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Sunday, January 6, 2019 (daily)

*Included with estate admission.
*Does not include “Candlelight Christmas Evenings”

Experience the holidays wreathed with the wonder of Biltmore. Our celebration presents Christmas on a grand scale with more than 55 trees decorated by our talented staff, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Festive menus in our restaurants and holiday wine tastings make for a memorable visit.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/148458802536575/?event_time_id=148458839203238

8th Annual Christmas Extravaganza
Nov 24 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Burnsville Town Center

Artist, crafters and direct sellers will be set up for folks to come in and do their early Christmas shopping. FREE Admission, everyone welcome!
If you are interested in being a vendor please request an application by emailing [email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/events/277449512856516/

In Times of Seismic Sorrows
Nov 24 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Center for Craft

When reflecting on the current state of the environment, it seems that we have entered into times of seismic sorrows. Carbon emissions, water pollution, fracking, and changing climate patterns all point to a troubling reality with serious consequences for human and non-human populations. Through weavings, installations, sculpture, and print, artists Rena Detrixhe and Tali Weinberg (Tulsa, OK) explore the complex relationship between humans and the planet, offering insights, expressing grief, and creating space for resilience and change.

In Time of Seismic Sorrows is curated by Marilyn Zapf and organized by the Center for Craft. The Center for Craft is supported in part by the N.C. Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

12th Annual Lynn Boggess Exhibition At The Haen Gallery
Nov 24 @ 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
The Haen Gallery

The Haen Gallery, located in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, is proud to present their 12th Annual Lynn Boggess Exhibition. The exhibit will run through November.

Lynn Boggess is one of the most unique and noteworthy American landscape painters of the 21st Century. He resides in West Virginia, a state whose diverse mountains, forests, and rivers provide abundant inspiration for the artist’s plein air paintings. In place of brushes he uses palette knives and trowels to thickly layer the broad sweeping strokes and exquisite fine detail that capture all the colors of the seasons in rushing rivers, snow covered hillsides, and thick forest vegetation. Mr. Boggess’ work is recognized internationally for its incredible three-dimensional texture, rendered solely in oils. These remarkable paintings combine elements of Abstract Expressionism and Photorealism to create a style that is totally unique and original.

The Haen Gallery in Asheville is located at 52 Biltmore Avenue between City Bakery and Chestnut. There is a parking garage at the Aloft hotel across the street, another garage just up the hill, as well as street parking.

The gallery is open Monday through Saturday 11am-6pm & Sunday 12-5pm. For more information: 828-254-8577 or www.thehaengallery.com. Gallery contacts: Chris Foley, Director; Leslie Logemann, Gallery Manager.

With locations in Asheville and Brevard, The Haen Gallery offers the work of established artists whose distinctive and unique style sets it apart from ordinary and imitative efforts. Visit the website at thehaengallery.com.

Maggie Gets Lit
Nov 24 @ 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Maggie Valley Fairgrounds

Santa Strut, Ugly Sweater Contest, Best Dressed Pet Contest, music, cloggers, Christmas Market. Prizes! Pictures with Santa! Kid Zone! FREE!!!

https://www.facebook.com/events/300427004078224/

Spirit of Christmas
Nov 24 @ 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Santa will be at the Red Caboose on Everett Street from 2-6 pm. Then he joins friends and neighbors for caroling from Caboose Corner to the square for the lighting of the town Christmas tree. Afterwards come inside the Visitor Center for hot cocoa and cookies, letter writing to Santa, and a visit with St. Nick himself! In the true Spirit of Christmas bring a canned good to donate to the food pantry or a new unwrapped gift for for the local toy drive!

https://www.facebook.com/events/1660938904018179/

Lights Before Christmas at Riverbanks Zoo
Nov 24 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Riverbanks Zoo
Bring the kids and the camera and see why Lights Before Christmas has continued as a family tradition for 30 years!

  • Nearly one million twinkling lights
  • Countless decorative images
  • Holly Jolly Christmas Parade
  • Animated Story Tree
  • Animal Characters
  • Nightly visits with Santa (start at 6:00PM through December 23)
  • Warm memories and holiday cheer around the Jingle Bell Bonfire
  • Hot cocoa, s’mores and other festive foods available for purchase

While you may spot a few night owls during Lights, most of our residents will be off-exhibit to catch some zzz’s.

Tweetsie Christmas
Nov 24 @ 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tweetsie Railroad

Open 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. Advance Tickets Required. Enjoy the wonder of the park dazzlingly lit for the holidays, with a nighttime train and more.

Candlelight Christmas Evenings (November)
Nov 24 @ 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Biltmore

Candlelight Christmas Evenings*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Saturday, January 5, 2019 (Select Dates)

*Check website for availability/dates
*By reservation only.
*Pricing varies by date.

Candlelight, firelight, and live music bring holiday warmth to the extravagant holiday décor of Biltmore House, creating an evening to remember. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. Advance reservations are required for evening visits.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/2014125145534975/?event_time_id=2014125155534974

It’s a Wonderful Life
Nov 24 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Capitol Theatre

Bells will ring & Angels will get wings this November at the Capitol!

Doors will open one hour prior.
Drinks and concessions available.

The Capitol Theater of Downtown Greeneville, Tennessee is pleased to announce that they’ll be bringing one the most beloved movies of all time to their screen as part of their Classics at the Capitol series. On November 24th at 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, the Capitol Theatre will be showing Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life. This 1946 classic, which stars James Stewart and Donna Reed, has become a staple of the Christmas season. Tickets for this event will be only $5.00 and will be available at the door and online.

It’s A Wonderful Life is the story of George Bailey, a small town business man who is desperate and on the brink of committing suicide. Heavenly intervention takes place in the from on a junior angel named Clarence who shows George what the world would be like without him and teaches him the lesson that “no man who has friends is a failure.” Directed by Frank Capra, a man who made some of the most American films of all time, It’s a Wonderful Life was a massive flop upon its original release. Over time, and numerous TV airings, the film has become as much a part of the Christmas season as Jingle Bells and overeating.

It’s a Wonderful Life will be introduced by local columnist and film writer Andy Ross, “There’s a certain hallmark to Christmas movies, and it doesn’t get much bigger than It’s a Wonderful Life. I’m so excited to be introducing this one at the Capitol to give the Christmas season a proper kick off.”

Classics at The Capitol is the monthly film series featured at the historic Capitol Theater, which operated as a movie theater from 1934 to 1992. The monthly series is dedicated to bringing a wide range of films to the community as they were went to be seen, with an audience, on the big screen.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1422874254523658/

A John Berry Christmas
Nov 24 @ 7:30 pm
Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts
A John Berry Christmas @ Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts

John Berry has a new outlook, a new address and a new beginning. The singer-songwriter rose to stardom on the country charts of the 1990s with such mega hits as “Your Love Amazes Me,” “Standing on the Edge of Goodbye” and “She’s Taken a Shine.” He has earned multiple Gold and Platinum records over the years. John was nominated for the ACM Top New Male Vocalist in 1994, won a Grammy Award in 1996 for his participation in Amazing Grace: A Country Salute to Gospel Vol. 1. In 1997 he was nominated for Vocal Event of the Year (for Long Haired Country Boy with Charlie Daniels and Hal Ketchum) and in 2013 John was nominated for the Mainstream Country Male Artist by the ICM Awards. And thanks to the miracles of modern technology, he even sang a duet with the late, great Patsy Cline. “I love what I do, with a passion not seen in quite some time,” says Berry. “I’m hopeful and excited about the future. I love singing and always will.” His annual Christmas tours brighten the holidays for thousands, as does his electrifying rendition of O’ Holy Night. We invite you to join John for an evening of stories, memories and a traditional Holiday music filled event for the entire family.

An Evening With Acoustic Syndicate: Annual Thanksgiving Homecoming at The Grey Eagle
Nov 24 @ 9:00 pm – Nov 25 @ 12:00 am
The Grey Eagle

An Evening With Acoustic Syndicate: Annual Thanksgiving Homecoming at The Grey Eagle

https://www.facebook.com/events/2194786480802358/

Appalachian Renegades at Mack Kells
Nov 24 @ 9:00 pm – Nov 25 @ 12:00 am
Mack Kells

We’re headed down Tunnel Road and cruising into Mack Kells for a post Thanksgiving night of outright debauchery! It’s gonna be a killer evening of Rock & Roll with the crew and probably a few bad decisions!!

https://www.facebook.com/events/1488398741303539/

Sunday, November 25, 2018
THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride
Nov 25 all-day

All Aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS! This memorable journey will take you on an incredible journey! Believe the magic this Holiday season!

Over 88,000 guests rode THE POLAR EXPRESS with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2017 and we hope to see you in 2018! 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 9, 2018, and operates through December 31, 2018.

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration (November)
Nov 25 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Biltmore

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Sunday, January 6, 2019 (daily)

*Included with estate admission.
*Does not include “Candlelight Christmas Evenings”

Experience the holidays wreathed with the wonder of Biltmore. Our celebration presents Christmas on a grand scale with more than 55 trees decorated by our talented staff, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Festive menus in our restaurants and holiday wine tastings make for a memorable visit.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/148458802536575/?event_time_id=247333679315753

In Times of Seismic Sorrows
Nov 25 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Center for Craft

When reflecting on the current state of the environment, it seems that we have entered into times of seismic sorrows. Carbon emissions, water pollution, fracking, and changing climate patterns all point to a troubling reality with serious consequences for human and non-human populations. Through weavings, installations, sculpture, and print, artists Rena Detrixhe and Tali Weinberg (Tulsa, OK) explore the complex relationship between humans and the planet, offering insights, expressing grief, and creating space for resilience and change.

In Time of Seismic Sorrows is curated by Marilyn Zapf and organized by the Center for Craft. The Center for Craft is supported in part by the N.C. Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

12th Annual Lynn Boggess Exhibition At The Haen Gallery
Nov 25 @ 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
The Haen Gallery

The Haen Gallery, located in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, is proud to present their 12th Annual Lynn Boggess Exhibition. The exhibit will run through November.

Lynn Boggess is one of the most unique and noteworthy American landscape painters of the 21st Century. He resides in West Virginia, a state whose diverse mountains, forests, and rivers provide abundant inspiration for the artist’s plein air paintings. In place of brushes he uses palette knives and trowels to thickly layer the broad sweeping strokes and exquisite fine detail that capture all the colors of the seasons in rushing rivers, snow covered hillsides, and thick forest vegetation. Mr. Boggess’ work is recognized internationally for its incredible three-dimensional texture, rendered solely in oils. These remarkable paintings combine elements of Abstract Expressionism and Photorealism to create a style that is totally unique and original.

The Haen Gallery in Asheville is located at 52 Biltmore Avenue between City Bakery and Chestnut. There is a parking garage at the Aloft hotel across the street, another garage just up the hill, as well as street parking.

The gallery is open Monday through Saturday 11am-6pm & Sunday 12-5pm. For more information: 828-254-8577 or www.thehaengallery.com. Gallery contacts: Chris Foley, Director; Leslie Logemann, Gallery Manager.

With locations in Asheville and Brevard, The Haen Gallery offers the work of established artists whose distinctive and unique style sets it apart from ordinary and imitative efforts. Visit the website at thehaengallery.com.

Lights Before Christmas at Riverbanks Zoo
Nov 25 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Riverbanks Zoo
Bring the kids and the camera and see why Lights Before Christmas has continued as a family tradition for 30 years!

  • Nearly one million twinkling lights
  • Countless decorative images
  • Holly Jolly Christmas Parade
  • Animated Story Tree
  • Animal Characters
  • Nightly visits with Santa (start at 6:00PM through December 23)
  • Warm memories and holiday cheer around the Jingle Bell Bonfire
  • Hot cocoa, s’mores and other festive foods available for purchase

While you may spot a few night owls during Lights, most of our residents will be off-exhibit to catch some zzz’s.

Tweetsie Christmas
Nov 25 @ 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tweetsie Railroad

Open 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. Advance Tickets Required. Enjoy the wonder of the park dazzlingly lit for the holidays, with a nighttime train and more.

Candlelight Christmas Evenings (November)
Nov 25 @ 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Biltmore

Candlelight Christmas Evenings*
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – Saturday, January 5, 2019 (Select Dates)

*Check website for availability/dates
*By reservation only.
*Pricing varies by date.

Candlelight, firelight, and live music bring holiday warmth to the extravagant holiday décor of Biltmore House, creating an evening to remember. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. Advance reservations are required for evening visits.

Learn more about #ChristmasAtBiltmore or plan your visit: biltmore.com/Christmas

https://www.facebook.com/events/2014125145534975/?event_time_id=2167409583539863