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, December 20, 2019
Spamilton: An American Parody
Dec 20 @ 8:00 pm
Peace Center

Brace yourself for a Singing, Dancing, Comedy Revolution that is chock-full of references to the wonderful world of Broadway!

From the creator of Forbidden Broadway comes the parody of the most talked about Broadway musical phenomenon of the 21st century. Not simply a send-up of the original, this story is interspersed with outrageous references to Chicago, West Side Story, The King And I, Sweeney Todd, and more! Even the stars of the original cast are comically eviscerated and joined by caricatures of living Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, Barbra Streisand, and Bernadette Peters.

Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just like to laugh, there’s something for everyone in this fresh, new musical parody!

Saturday, December 21, 2019
Cirque du Soleil AXEL 30% Holiday Sale
Dec 21 all-day
Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Go beyond extraordinary this holiday with tickets to Cirque du Soleil AXEL coming to the Bon Secours Wellness Arena on February 13-16!

Experience a new electrifying, world-class ice skating with
breathtaking acrobatics and save 30% off tickets.

Hurry! This offer is available online on now through January 2.

*Offer valid on select seats. Not valid on previously purchased tickets. Additional fees apply.

Fall Personal Training Specials YWCA
Dec 21 all-day
YWCA Asheville

We are excited to bring back two very popular Personal Training specials through the end of the year! From now through December 31st, we are pleased to offer new YWCA Fitness and Aquatics Center members 2 free Personal Training Sessions as a sign-up bonus, and all members are entitled to 20% off Personal Training packages!  Our team of Certified Personal Trainers offer support, motivation, and accountability to help you reach your personal health and fitness goals. Together with your trainer, you will create and implement an individualized exercise plan for proper form, function, and results. To sign up, inquire at the Guest Services desk or on our website.
 

Foster Parent Training Classes Announced for 2020
Dec 21 all-day
with in Buncombe County

News
                            article image

You might have heard about the need to recruit more foster parents in Buncombe County. “We currently have 300 kids in foster care in Buncombe County,” says Heather Hill-Pavone, Buncombe County Licensing Social Worker. “Only some of those kids get to stay in Buncombe County as we only have 100 licensed foster homes with BCHHS.” We need your help to let people in our community know about the upcoming Foster Parent Training Classes happening in 2020!

These courses begin the licensure process for becoming a foster parent. They are offered quarterly, for anyone in Buncombe County, who is interested in becoming a foster parent. While the next round of Foster Parent Training Classes starts on September 11, the classes for 2020 are NOW on the calendar! You can sign up by clicking this link.

2020 Schedule: 

  • Winter Classes: Jan 16, 2020 through Feb 20, 2020 (Thursdays) at Buncombe County Health and Human Services in Downtown Asheville
  • Spring Classes: March 25, 2020 through April 29, 2020 (Wednesdays) at Biltmore Church in Arden, NC
  • Summer Classes: June 2, 2020 through July 7, 2020 (Tuesdays) at Biltmore Church in Arden
  • Fall Classes: September 14, 2020 through October 19, 2020 (Mondays) at Buncombe County Health and Human Services in Downtown Asheville
Fringe Activates Asheville in 2020! Fringe Freak Passes
Dec 21 all-day
Fringe Feast

Join us January 19 – 26, 2020, as we celebrate our 18th year as the fearless, boundary pushing performing arts festival. We are returning bigger and bolder than ever, beginning a little early, with a free preview party, 7 pm, January 11th at Fleetwood’s in West Asheville. Enjoy art installations from ZedAVL and Geneva Bierce Wilson, be delighted by everyone’s favorite site-specific dance troupe The Accidentals, and grab a newly printed guide so you can start planning your festival!

Fringe Freak Passes go on Sale December 6!

Buy a Freak Pass now to pick from 25 different ticketed shows, which run Thursday, January 23 through Sunday, January 26. The Freak Pass is only $65. Freak Passholders are given priority with reserved seats. There are a limited number available, when they are gone, they’re gone! Price goes up to $75 on January 1st.

As well as over 100 ticketed show times from local, national and international artists, we have FREE Random Acts of Fringe popping up all over town, all week long, and lots of parties!  The Kickoff party returns to the Lazy Diamond at 7 pm, co-hosted by the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, from 6-9pm, on Sunday, January 19th. Check out the new Artist Wine Party, hosted by Zapow Gallery, 7 pm, Tuesday, January 21st. Free after-parties return, starting at 10 pm, Thursday at Sly Grog, Friday at Mothlight and Saturday at The Block Off Biltmore, There you can enjoy more Random Acts of Fringe, meet the artists and chat about your favorite shows! See AshevilleFringe.org for all the details.

Individual tickets for each show are $14-$19 and go on sale January 1. See www.AshevilleFringe.org individual show descriptions and ticketing links.

Hendersonville Home for the Holidays
Dec 21 all-day
Hendersonville

November 29
Downtown Street Lighting & Santa’s Arrival
5:00pm  

The lighting of downtown holiday lights and Santa’s arrival kick off the holiday season in Downtown Hendersonville.  The evening features entertainment, sing-along, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus at the Historic Courthouse on Main Street. Click for more information Downtown Hendersonville

November 8 – 17
Flat Rock Playhouse presents:  “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”
Four kids travel through a wardrobe to the land of Narnia and learn of their destiny to free it with the guidance of a mystical lion! The play was based on the novel by C. S. Lewis. 828-693-0731 Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse

November 29 – December 23
Peppermint the Bear Scavenger Hunt
Free
Peppermint Bear will take you on a fun-filled bear hunt through downtown Hendersonville looking for her cubs.  As you search for the cubs, visit at least 12 of the 22 downtown participating businesses to be eligible for prizes. Complete the entry form in the brochure and drop it in Peppermint’s mailbox, located in front of the Visitor Center, by December 23rd. For more details about the Scavenger Hunt, stop by the Visitor Center at 201 South Main Street.

December 7
Hendersonville Christmas Parade

10:00am
A traditional hometown Christmas parade travels along Main Street from Five Points to Caswell Street. Sponsored by the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association. This year’s theme is the “The Magic of Christmas”. Visit the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association web site to download a Parade application. 828-692-4179

November 29 – December 22
Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage presents:  “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas”
An all-new Christmas production follows up last year’s smash holiday hit. This original musical revue performed by your favorite Flat Rock Playhouse singers and dancers is filled with holiday cheer. Celebrate the holidays Vagabonds style!  Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse

December 6
Olde Fashioned Hendersonville Christmas

Main Street / 5pm – 8pm
The Downtown merchants open their doors and invite holiday shoppers in with a festive window displays, decorations, caroling, music, and refreshments. 828-697-2232.

December 8
Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper
1pm-4pm
$20

The Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper is a self-guided tour of several inns and the Cookie Caper part of the tour is a delicious Christmas treat at each inn. The inns on tour include the 1898 Waverly Inn, Charleston Inn, Mill House Lodge, Echo Mountain Inn and Brightwaters Guesthouse. 828-697-3010

December 18 – January 1
Iceless Skating Rink

Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm
Admission: $10, Children 10 & under $5 (payment by cash or check only)

Enjoy ice-skating in Downtown Hendersonville this holiday season. The  iceless rink is located at the Visitor Center on South Main Street. The synthetic surface is made from special polymers that does not require liquid, so it can be enjoyed year-round in any temperature.  A curling lane is also available. Curling involves players sliding stones on the ice towards a target. Play a variety of free games while you wait your turn on the ice. Skate rental included in admission price. Admission: $10, Children $5 for ages 10 & under, with group rates available for groups of 10 or more, but must call to reserve a time for groups, $5 for for 30 minutes of curling. Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm. Operates weather permitting. Benefits the Henderson County America In Bloom Program, 828-768-4413 To learn more go to: Henderson County America in Bloom

December 20 – 22
Main Street Holiday Hayrides

5pm – 8pm
Free

Take a magical hayride through Historic Downtown Hendersonville among its twinkling lights and festive decorations. Board the tractor-drawn wagon ride at the Visitor Center, located at 201 South Main Street. Reservations are not accepted, first-come, first-served basis.

Step up your recycling game this holiday season
Dec 21 all-day
City Of Asheville

illustration of christmas tree made out of green recycle symbols

’Tis the season — to recycle!

Seriously, between now and the end of the year…  Asheville, we love you, and you are going to generate a lot of….STUFF. You know, all those boxes and bags, tinsel and tags.

As part of the City’s sustainability and trash-reduction goals, we certainly want to keep as much of these materials out of the landfill as possible.

Stay on Santa’s nice list with these holiday recycling tips.

 

What can go in the Big Blue Cart?

YES

  •         Wrapping paper (except foil wrapping paper)
  •         Gift boxes
  •         Cardboard
  •         Paper gift bags (remove strings)
  •         Holiday cards and envelopes
  •         Catalogs, newspaper, and junk mail

 

NO

  •         Tissue paper
  •         Ribbons and bows
  •         Plastic gift bags
  •         Bubble wrap and Styrofoam
  •         Puffy mailing envelopes
  •         Used paper plates and cups
  •         Napkins and paper towels
  •         Christmas lights or electronics (Residents can take Christmas lights to Biltmore Iron & Metal for recycling.)

 

Disposing of your Christmas tree

The City of Asheville Sanitation Division will collect natural Christmas trees on their regular brush collection routes.  Christmas trees must be free of all lights, ornaments, tinsel, stands, and other materials. Place trees at the curb by 7 a.m. on the Monday of your regular brush collection week.  The trees will be taken to Riverside Stump Dump and recycled into mulch.

Residents can also drop off Christmas trees for recycling at the following locations:

  •  Buncombe County Landfill (81 Panther Branch Road)
  •  Private yard waste facilities

 

Artificial trees in reusable condition can be donated to Goodwill or other reuse organization. Artificial trees that can’t be donated should be called in for bulky trash collection to 828-251-1122.

United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s annual Holiday Book Drive
Dec 21 all-day
Barnes & Noble Booksellers at the Asheville Mall

United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s annual Holiday Book Drive begins on November 1st.
We’re excited to once again work alongside Capstone Health and Barnes & Noble (Tunnel Rd.) this holiday season to place as many books as possible into the hands of local students.
For more information on this year’s Holiday Book Drive and how you can help, click the button below.
And don’t forget, to end the drive on a high note, we’ll once again host a Book Wrapping Party for supporters wishing to spread some holiday cheer. We’ll gather at Highland Brewing on December 11th, from 5:30 P.M.-7:30 P.M. to organize and wrap all the books collected during the drive.

Shop at Barnes & Noble Asheville and Support Students in Buncombe County

Starting November 1st and running through December 31st, Barnes & Noble Booksellers at the Asheville Mall is hosting a book drive so customers can easily donate books to local middle school youth. It’s such a simple and needed way to support local students. You can simply purchase the books while doing your holiday shopping, leave them with your cashier at check-out, then we will collect the books at the end of the month and distribute them to commmunity partners and students throughout Asheville and Buncombe County.

You can also drop off new, unwrapped books at our office located on 50 South French Broad Avenue in Asheville. If you do, please drop them off by December 10 so we can wrap them up for distribution.

“Dressing for the Occasion: Mid-Century Sandburg as Celebrity and Family Man”
Dec 21 @ 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Carl Sandburg Home

Sandburg Clothing on Exhibit

“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.

Ballet Conservatory of Asheville presents The Nutcracker
Dec 21 @ 10:00 am
Diana Wortham Theatre

A magically festive, full-length Nutcracker production, featuring professional classical dancers and the Ballet Conservatory’s celebrated pre-professional company.

A young girl’s holiday dream comes true. Having crept downstairs at midnight to play with her new Nutcracker doll, Clara is swept up in a fantasy of toy soldiers, giant mice, snow fairies, magic and mystery. After saving her beloved Nutcracker from the Mouse King, she is whisked away to an enchanted land and dances the night away, meeting a host of enchanting characters.

Kid Hop Hooray! Indoor Dance Party
Dec 21 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
The Orange Peel

Finally, on Saturday November 30th after Thanksgiving, we’re excited that it’s Kid Hop time again! Kid Hop Hooray (our awesome indoor family dance party that happens monthly all winter long) is back. This event is for kids of all ages, with family-appropriate music from DJ Oso! Drop in anytime – it goes from 10am til 1pm. There will be FREE Glow accessories for little dancers while they last, plenty of room to run, dance, and get their sillies out while it’s cold outside, and snacks for purchase from Asheville Pizza Co and the Hop Ice Creamery, as well as popcorn and juice boxes! And of course, The Orange Peel bar will be open for mom and dad’s refreshments.

Padded area available for crawlers and new walkers to play and explore.

Live Glassblowing Demos
Dec 21 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Grove Arcade - Suite 123

Since 2010 master scientific glass blower, Jason Probstein has been presenting live glassblowing demonstrations here at our art gallery.

And once again we are proud to announce that Jason will be blowing his unique Christmas ornaments and glass artworks here at Mountain Made gallery from now to December 23rd, 2019.

Jason will be demonstrating Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. He will also be blowing glass every Sunday from Noon to 2:00 PM.

We invite you come by Mountain Made for a fun, family-friendly event

Spamilton: An American Parody
Dec 21 @ 2:00 pm
Peace Center

Brace yourself for a Singing, Dancing, Comedy Revolution that is chock-full of references to the wonderful world of Broadway!

From the creator of Forbidden Broadway comes the parody of the most talked about Broadway musical phenomenon of the 21st century. Not simply a send-up of the original, this story is interspersed with outrageous references to Chicago, West Side Story, The King And I, Sweeney Todd, and more! Even the stars of the original cast are comically eviscerated and joined by caricatures of living Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, Barbra Streisand, and Bernadette Peters.

Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just like to laugh, there’s something for everyone in this fresh, new musical parody!

Asheville Winter Solstice Ecstatic Dance with Kaminanda
Dec 21 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Pack Square Park

Families and community members from the larger Buncombe County area and beyond will be coming together for this unique outdoor dance experience in Pack Square Park. Honoring and bringing together different subcultures, this gathering is a family-friendly, alcohol-free event featuring world renowned tribal fusion dance music artist, Kaminanda. Come celebrate life and the winter solstice with music and ecstatic dance!

Tickets can be purchased online at startribe.org for $12 for only the first 200 tickets, and then $15 at the door. Pack Square Park provides a beautiful downtown Asheville setting for this family-friendly gathering on a Saturday afternoon from 3-5pm, with doors at 2:30pm. Children 12 and under may enter for free, and it is suggested to bring ear protection for them. There will be hot chai to stay warm and superfood energy bars provided by Infinity Greens, and raw chocolate delights by Asheville legends, Silvermoon Chocolate. Startribe is partnering with Asheville Movement Collective, a community of dancers who gather together for free-form dance by hosting dance waves for personal and community transformation.

Kaminanda is an electronic dance music artist that has been performing in the transformational music scene for over a decade. Kaminanda’s live sets involve yoga fusion instrumentation and music theory designed to take the audience on a journey of hypnotic elements of house, techno and trance while remaining in the slower tempos. A kaleidoscope of warm melodies and twisting, winding compositions will inspire the young and the young-at-heart to connect with their inner dancers.

Startribe is a special events company based in Taos, New Mexico, that has produced a variety of one day events and full weekend festivals around the country. Coming in to the Asheville scene strong, this year they produced the highly acclaimed Full Moon Ecstatic Dance in Carrier Park with Porangui in May, and the well-attended and loved Ecstatic Dance in Pack Square with Random Rab in October. StarTribe events fulfill a passion for dance in the natural elements. They believe that dance in outdoor settings is among the most consciousness enhancing activities we can do for ourselves. Sponsors for this event include Blue Horizons Project, a renewable energy community initiative and Red Wing Marketing, a local music festival management and digital marketing agency.

Spamilton: An American Parody
Dec 21 @ 8:00 pm
Peace Center

Brace yourself for a Singing, Dancing, Comedy Revolution that is chock-full of references to the wonderful world of Broadway!

From the creator of Forbidden Broadway comes the parody of the most talked about Broadway musical phenomenon of the 21st century. Not simply a send-up of the original, this story is interspersed with outrageous references to Chicago, West Side Story, The King And I, Sweeney Todd, and more! Even the stars of the original cast are comically eviscerated and joined by caricatures of living Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, Barbra Streisand, and Bernadette Peters.

Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just like to laugh, there’s something for everyone in this fresh, new musical parody!

Sunday, December 22, 2019
City of Asheville shares Code PURPLE network resources
Dec 22 all-day
City of Asheville

As temperatures begin to drop we want to make sure people know where to go when frigid weather strikes. If you or someone you know needs shelter, the following sites are available when the Asheville-Buncombe CODE PURPLE is in effect.

 

Code Purple is a voluntary effort among private sector shelter providers, coordinated by the Asheville Homeless Coalition. The City of Asheville does not fund, direct, coordinate, or manage any aspects of Code Purple, but information on when Code Purple is in effect may be found at this link on the City of Asheville website

 

In extremely cold conditions, the Code Purple shelter providers will provide shelter beyond their normal program capacity. Code Purple does not include natural disasters such as hurricanes, flooding, or tornadoes; in these events, all citizens will be able to access services at the community disaster shelters.

 

Code Purple network sites:

  • ABCCM Veteran’s Quarters, 828-259-5333: Overnight emergency shelter, men only.
  • Homeward Bound A-Hope, 828-252-8883: Day center.
  • Western Carolina Rescue Ministries, 828-254-0471: Indoor space during the day (all); overnight emergency shelter for women and children only; identification required; police escort required after 6 p.m.; background check necessary to assure individual is not registered sex offender.
  • Steadfast House, 828-259-5365: Limited space availability/overnight emergency shelter for women and children only.

 

   Code Purple network partners:

    • United Ways 2-1-1 information and referral line: Dial 211 or 828-252-HELP (4357)
    • ABCCM Steadfast House, transitional housing: 828-259-5365.
    • American Red Cross (crisis services)
    • BEACON members (crisis services)
    • Helpmate, overnight domestic violence shelter: Call 24-hour crisis line, 828-254-0516
    • Trinity Place (overnight shelter for ages 7-17 only: Amy Hobson,  828-777-5715

 

The City of Asheville is deeply grateful for the work of all homeless shelter providers. We know they do everything they can do to get people indoors during extreme weather events. We also recognize that despite everyone’s best efforts, there may always be people who choose to remain outdoors, even in the coldest months.

Fall Personal Training Specials YWCA
Dec 22 all-day
YWCA Asheville

We are excited to bring back two very popular Personal Training specials through the end of the year! From now through December 31st, we are pleased to offer new YWCA Fitness and Aquatics Center members 2 free Personal Training Sessions as a sign-up bonus, and all members are entitled to 20% off Personal Training packages!  Our team of Certified Personal Trainers offer support, motivation, and accountability to help you reach your personal health and fitness goals. Together with your trainer, you will create and implement an individualized exercise plan for proper form, function, and results. To sign up, inquire at the Guest Services desk or on our website.
 

Hendersonville Home for the Holidays
Dec 22 all-day
Hendersonville

November 29
Downtown Street Lighting & Santa’s Arrival
5:00pm  

The lighting of downtown holiday lights and Santa’s arrival kick off the holiday season in Downtown Hendersonville.  The evening features entertainment, sing-along, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus at the Historic Courthouse on Main Street. Click for more information Downtown Hendersonville

November 8 – 17
Flat Rock Playhouse presents:  “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”
Four kids travel through a wardrobe to the land of Narnia and learn of their destiny to free it with the guidance of a mystical lion! The play was based on the novel by C. S. Lewis. 828-693-0731 Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse

November 29 – December 23
Peppermint the Bear Scavenger Hunt
Free
Peppermint Bear will take you on a fun-filled bear hunt through downtown Hendersonville looking for her cubs.  As you search for the cubs, visit at least 12 of the 22 downtown participating businesses to be eligible for prizes. Complete the entry form in the brochure and drop it in Peppermint’s mailbox, located in front of the Visitor Center, by December 23rd. For more details about the Scavenger Hunt, stop by the Visitor Center at 201 South Main Street.

December 7
Hendersonville Christmas Parade

10:00am
A traditional hometown Christmas parade travels along Main Street from Five Points to Caswell Street. Sponsored by the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association. This year’s theme is the “The Magic of Christmas”. Visit the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association web site to download a Parade application. 828-692-4179

November 29 – December 22
Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage presents:  “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas”
An all-new Christmas production follows up last year’s smash holiday hit. This original musical revue performed by your favorite Flat Rock Playhouse singers and dancers is filled with holiday cheer. Celebrate the holidays Vagabonds style!  Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse

December 6
Olde Fashioned Hendersonville Christmas

Main Street / 5pm – 8pm
The Downtown merchants open their doors and invite holiday shoppers in with a festive window displays, decorations, caroling, music, and refreshments. 828-697-2232.

December 8
Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper
1pm-4pm
$20

The Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper is a self-guided tour of several inns and the Cookie Caper part of the tour is a delicious Christmas treat at each inn. The inns on tour include the 1898 Waverly Inn, Charleston Inn, Mill House Lodge, Echo Mountain Inn and Brightwaters Guesthouse. 828-697-3010

December 18 – January 1
Iceless Skating Rink

Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm
Admission: $10, Children 10 & under $5 (payment by cash or check only)

Enjoy ice-skating in Downtown Hendersonville this holiday season. The  iceless rink is located at the Visitor Center on South Main Street. The synthetic surface is made from special polymers that does not require liquid, so it can be enjoyed year-round in any temperature.  A curling lane is also available. Curling involves players sliding stones on the ice towards a target. Play a variety of free games while you wait your turn on the ice. Skate rental included in admission price. Admission: $10, Children $5 for ages 10 & under, with group rates available for groups of 10 or more, but must call to reserve a time for groups, $5 for for 30 minutes of curling. Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm. Operates weather permitting. Benefits the Henderson County America In Bloom Program, 828-768-4413 To learn more go to: Henderson County America in Bloom

December 20 – 22
Main Street Holiday Hayrides

5pm – 8pm
Free

Take a magical hayride through Historic Downtown Hendersonville among its twinkling lights and festive decorations. Board the tractor-drawn wagon ride at the Visitor Center, located at 201 South Main Street. Reservations are not accepted, first-come, first-served basis.

Step up your recycling game this holiday season
Dec 22 all-day
City Of Asheville

illustration of christmas tree made out of green recycle symbols

’Tis the season — to recycle!

Seriously, between now and the end of the year…  Asheville, we love you, and you are going to generate a lot of….STUFF. You know, all those boxes and bags, tinsel and tags.

As part of the City’s sustainability and trash-reduction goals, we certainly want to keep as much of these materials out of the landfill as possible.

Stay on Santa’s nice list with these holiday recycling tips.

 

What can go in the Big Blue Cart?

YES

  •         Wrapping paper (except foil wrapping paper)
  •         Gift boxes
  •         Cardboard
  •         Paper gift bags (remove strings)
  •         Holiday cards and envelopes
  •         Catalogs, newspaper, and junk mail

 

NO

  •         Tissue paper
  •         Ribbons and bows
  •         Plastic gift bags
  •         Bubble wrap and Styrofoam
  •         Puffy mailing envelopes
  •         Used paper plates and cups
  •         Napkins and paper towels
  •         Christmas lights or electronics (Residents can take Christmas lights to Biltmore Iron & Metal for recycling.)

 

Disposing of your Christmas tree

The City of Asheville Sanitation Division will collect natural Christmas trees on their regular brush collection routes.  Christmas trees must be free of all lights, ornaments, tinsel, stands, and other materials. Place trees at the curb by 7 a.m. on the Monday of your regular brush collection week.  The trees will be taken to Riverside Stump Dump and recycled into mulch.

Residents can also drop off Christmas trees for recycling at the following locations:

  •  Buncombe County Landfill (81 Panther Branch Road)
  •  Private yard waste facilities

 

Artificial trees in reusable condition can be donated to Goodwill or other reuse organization. Artificial trees that can’t be donated should be called in for bulky trash collection to 828-251-1122.

“Dressing for the Occasion: Mid-Century Sandburg as Celebrity and Family Man”
Dec 22 @ 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Carl Sandburg Home

Sandburg Clothing on Exhibit

“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.

Spamilton: An American Parody
Dec 22 @ 1:00 pm
Peace Center

Brace yourself for a Singing, Dancing, Comedy Revolution that is chock-full of references to the wonderful world of Broadway!

From the creator of Forbidden Broadway comes the parody of the most talked about Broadway musical phenomenon of the 21st century. Not simply a send-up of the original, this story is interspersed with outrageous references to Chicago, West Side Story, The King And I, Sweeney Todd, and more! Even the stars of the original cast are comically eviscerated and joined by caricatures of living Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, Barbra Streisand, and Bernadette Peters.

Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just like to laugh, there’s something for everyone in this fresh, new musical parody!

Rhythm + Resilience : House of Kuumba
Dec 22 @ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
YMI Cultural Center

HIGHLIGHTS + FEATURES

Collectively, this specially curated lineup of experiences is a welcoming space for ALL, while centering the celebratory and gratitude-based culture that we know to be Kwanzaa. As a cultural tradition reflective of those from the African diaspora, Kwanzaa took root in the United States in 1966, and for many is more than simply a 7-day holiday, but also a reflection of the way we would like to build community year-round. Event features + highlights include ::

  • Community event rooted in art, culture, and heritage co-organized by adé PROJECT, Southside Rising + friends!
  • Celebration of the original Black Nativity: Liberation Holiday team + cast, along with an unveiling/viewing of a featured film on this community production.
  • Special holiday meal prepared by The Ettison Group, available at the event and to residents of the Asheville public housing communities.
  • Showcasing of Southside Stories, a short film about the changes, people and culture of Asheville, NC’s historic black Southside neighborhoodproduced, produced by youth from Word on the Street/La Voz de los Jovenes
  • Cultivating support for the Stephanie Maeweather Clothes Closet by accepting gently used winter coats (and clothes) on site..and more!
Spamilton: An American Parody
Dec 22 @ 6:30 pm
Peace Center

Brace yourself for a Singing, Dancing, Comedy Revolution that is chock-full of references to the wonderful world of Broadway!

From the creator of Forbidden Broadway comes the parody of the most talked about Broadway musical phenomenon of the 21st century. Not simply a send-up of the original, this story is interspersed with outrageous references to Chicago, West Side Story, The King And I, Sweeney Todd, and more! Even the stars of the original cast are comically eviscerated and joined by caricatures of living Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, Barbra Streisand, and Bernadette Peters.

Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just like to laugh, there’s something for everyone in this fresh, new musical parody!

Queer Comedy Party: A Very Queer Holiday Recital
Dec 22 @ 8:00 pm
Fleetwood's

This months Queer Comedy Party is getting festive! Join all your favorite local queer comics for a very queer holiday recital.
Standup, sketch and song all in one show

Tickets $10, VIP $15
General admission: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queer-comedy-party-a-very-queer-holiday-recital-tickets-84689188643
VIP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vip-queer-comedy-party-a-very-queer-holiday-recital-vip-tickets-84689802479

Monday, December 23, 2019
Hendersonville Home for the Holidays
Dec 23 all-day
Hendersonville

November 29
Downtown Street Lighting & Santa’s Arrival
5:00pm  

The lighting of downtown holiday lights and Santa’s arrival kick off the holiday season in Downtown Hendersonville.  The evening features entertainment, sing-along, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus at the Historic Courthouse on Main Street. Click for more information Downtown Hendersonville

November 8 – 17
Flat Rock Playhouse presents:  “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”
Four kids travel through a wardrobe to the land of Narnia and learn of their destiny to free it with the guidance of a mystical lion! The play was based on the novel by C. S. Lewis. 828-693-0731 Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse

November 29 – December 23
Peppermint the Bear Scavenger Hunt
Free
Peppermint Bear will take you on a fun-filled bear hunt through downtown Hendersonville looking for her cubs.  As you search for the cubs, visit at least 12 of the 22 downtown participating businesses to be eligible for prizes. Complete the entry form in the brochure and drop it in Peppermint’s mailbox, located in front of the Visitor Center, by December 23rd. For more details about the Scavenger Hunt, stop by the Visitor Center at 201 South Main Street.

December 7
Hendersonville Christmas Parade

10:00am
A traditional hometown Christmas parade travels along Main Street from Five Points to Caswell Street. Sponsored by the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association. This year’s theme is the “The Magic of Christmas”. Visit the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association web site to download a Parade application. 828-692-4179

November 29 – December 22
Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage presents:  “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas”
An all-new Christmas production follows up last year’s smash holiday hit. This original musical revue performed by your favorite Flat Rock Playhouse singers and dancers is filled with holiday cheer. Celebrate the holidays Vagabonds style!  Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse

December 6
Olde Fashioned Hendersonville Christmas

Main Street / 5pm – 8pm
The Downtown merchants open their doors and invite holiday shoppers in with a festive window displays, decorations, caroling, music, and refreshments. 828-697-2232.

December 8
Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper
1pm-4pm
$20

The Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper is a self-guided tour of several inns and the Cookie Caper part of the tour is a delicious Christmas treat at each inn. The inns on tour include the 1898 Waverly Inn, Charleston Inn, Mill House Lodge, Echo Mountain Inn and Brightwaters Guesthouse. 828-697-3010

December 18 – January 1
Iceless Skating Rink

Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm
Admission: $10, Children 10 & under $5 (payment by cash or check only)

Enjoy ice-skating in Downtown Hendersonville this holiday season. The  iceless rink is located at the Visitor Center on South Main Street. The synthetic surface is made from special polymers that does not require liquid, so it can be enjoyed year-round in any temperature.  A curling lane is also available. Curling involves players sliding stones on the ice towards a target. Play a variety of free games while you wait your turn on the ice. Skate rental included in admission price. Admission: $10, Children $5 for ages 10 & under, with group rates available for groups of 10 or more, but must call to reserve a time for groups, $5 for for 30 minutes of curling. Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm. Operates weather permitting. Benefits the Henderson County America In Bloom Program, 828-768-4413 To learn more go to: Henderson County America in Bloom

December 20 – 22
Main Street Holiday Hayrides

5pm – 8pm
Free

Take a magical hayride through Historic Downtown Hendersonville among its twinkling lights and festive decorations. Board the tractor-drawn wagon ride at the Visitor Center, located at 201 South Main Street. Reservations are not accepted, first-come, first-served basis.

“Dressing for the Occasion: Mid-Century Sandburg as Celebrity and Family Man”
Dec 23 @ 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Carl Sandburg Home

Sandburg Clothing on Exhibit

“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.

Skate, Roll & Stroll disability-friendly time on the Big Ice!
Dec 23 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Skate, Roll, & Stroll is a disability-friendly time on the Big Ice! Come out in your wheelchair or walker, be pulled around the ice on a sled or in a wagon, walk on the ice or try your hand at ice skating!

Skate Roll and Stroll sessions will be held from 10am – 12pm. Ice walkers are free and available first come, first served. Guests are encouraged to bring their own sleds, wagons, and helmets. Volunteers will be available to assist with guests as needed.

This event is free of charge and offers free parking in the VIP lot off of Church Street. Free ADA parking is available in the loading dock parking lot off of Academy Street. Be sure to arrive early at 9:30am to lace up your skates!

Live Glassblowing Demos
Dec 23 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Grove Arcade - Suite 123

Since 2010 master scientific glass blower, Jason Probstein has been presenting live glassblowing demonstrations here at our art gallery.

And once again we are proud to announce that Jason will be blowing his unique Christmas ornaments and glass artworks here at Mountain Made gallery from now to December 23rd, 2019.

Jason will be demonstrating Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. He will also be blowing glass every Sunday from Noon to 2:00 PM.

We invite you come by Mountain Made for a fun, family-friendly event

Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Hendersonville Home for the Holidays
Dec 24 all-day
Hendersonville

November 29
Downtown Street Lighting & Santa’s Arrival
5:00pm  

The lighting of downtown holiday lights and Santa’s arrival kick off the holiday season in Downtown Hendersonville.  The evening features entertainment, sing-along, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus at the Historic Courthouse on Main Street. Click for more information Downtown Hendersonville

November 8 – 17
Flat Rock Playhouse presents:  “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”
Four kids travel through a wardrobe to the land of Narnia and learn of their destiny to free it with the guidance of a mystical lion! The play was based on the novel by C. S. Lewis. 828-693-0731 Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse

November 29 – December 23
Peppermint the Bear Scavenger Hunt
Free
Peppermint Bear will take you on a fun-filled bear hunt through downtown Hendersonville looking for her cubs.  As you search for the cubs, visit at least 12 of the 22 downtown participating businesses to be eligible for prizes. Complete the entry form in the brochure and drop it in Peppermint’s mailbox, located in front of the Visitor Center, by December 23rd. For more details about the Scavenger Hunt, stop by the Visitor Center at 201 South Main Street.

December 7
Hendersonville Christmas Parade

10:00am
A traditional hometown Christmas parade travels along Main Street from Five Points to Caswell Street. Sponsored by the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association. This year’s theme is the “The Magic of Christmas”. Visit the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association web site to download a Parade application. 828-692-4179

November 29 – December 22
Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage presents:  “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas”
An all-new Christmas production follows up last year’s smash holiday hit. This original musical revue performed by your favorite Flat Rock Playhouse singers and dancers is filled with holiday cheer. Celebrate the holidays Vagabonds style!  Click for tickets Flat Rock Playhouse

December 6
Olde Fashioned Hendersonville Christmas

Main Street / 5pm – 8pm
The Downtown merchants open their doors and invite holiday shoppers in with a festive window displays, decorations, caroling, music, and refreshments. 828-697-2232.

December 8
Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper
1pm-4pm
$20

The Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper is a self-guided tour of several inns and the Cookie Caper part of the tour is a delicious Christmas treat at each inn. The inns on tour include the 1898 Waverly Inn, Charleston Inn, Mill House Lodge, Echo Mountain Inn and Brightwaters Guesthouse. 828-697-3010

December 18 – January 1
Iceless Skating Rink

Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm
Admission: $10, Children 10 & under $5 (payment by cash or check only)

Enjoy ice-skating in Downtown Hendersonville this holiday season. The  iceless rink is located at the Visitor Center on South Main Street. The synthetic surface is made from special polymers that does not require liquid, so it can be enjoyed year-round in any temperature.  A curling lane is also available. Curling involves players sliding stones on the ice towards a target. Play a variety of free games while you wait your turn on the ice. Skate rental included in admission price. Admission: $10, Children $5 for ages 10 & under, with group rates available for groups of 10 or more, but must call to reserve a time for groups, $5 for for 30 minutes of curling. Regular Hours 11am-6pm, EXCEPT Christmas Eve 11am-3pm, Christmas Day Closed, New Year’s Eve 11am-3pm, and New Year’s Day from 1pm-6pm. Operates weather permitting. Benefits the Henderson County America In Bloom Program, 828-768-4413 To learn more go to: Henderson County America in Bloom

December 20 – 22
Main Street Holiday Hayrides

5pm – 8pm
Free

Take a magical hayride through Historic Downtown Hendersonville among its twinkling lights and festive decorations. Board the tractor-drawn wagon ride at the Visitor Center, located at 201 South Main Street. Reservations are not accepted, first-come, first-served basis.

“Dressing for the Occasion: Mid-Century Sandburg as Celebrity and Family Man”
Dec 24 @ 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Carl Sandburg Home

Sandburg Clothing on Exhibit

“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.