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.

Monday, September 25, 2023
Romare Bearden: Ways of Working Exhibition
Sep 25 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Asheville Art Museum

Romare Bearden (Charlotte, NC 1911–1988 New York, NY), African American writer and artist, is renowned for his collages. He constantly experimented with various techniques to achieve his artistic goals throughout his career. This exhibition highlights works on paper and explores his most frequently used mediums, including screen-printing, lithography, hand-colored etching, collagraph, monotype, relief print, photomontage, and collage.

 

Bearden’s work reflects his improvisational approach to his practice. He considered his process akin to that of jazz and blues composers. Starting with an open mind, he would let an idea evolve spontaneously.

 

Romare Bearden: Ways of Working highlights Bearden’s unique artistic practice and masterful storytelling through art,” says Pamela L. Myers, Executive Director of the Asheville Art Museum. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Jerald Melberg Gallery to present these extraordinary works on paper in conversation with Bearden’s collage Sunset Express, 1984 in the Museum Collection (on view in the Museum’s SECU Collection Hall). This exhibition will also provide a glimpse into the cultural histories and personal interests that influenced his art-making practice, and we hope it encourages introspection and dialogue with our visitors.”

 

Jerald Melberg states, “Romare Bearden’s groundbreaking artistic practice continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With an unparalleled legacy of creativity and innovation, Bearden’s contributions to art remain deeply influential years beyond his life.” We have enjoyed organizing this exhibition with the Asheville Art Museum to showcase his artistic genius and inspire visitors from the Western North Carolina region and beyond.”

 

This exhibition is made possible in part by the Judy Appleton Fund. Many thanks to the Jerald Melberg Gallery for the loan of these important artworks and to Mary and Jerald Melberg for their long-standing support of the arts, artists, and the Asheville Art Museum.

The Art of Food: From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation
Sep 25 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Asheville Art Museum

The Art of Food features works from important postwar artists, like Robert Rauschenberg, Roy Lichtenstein, John Baldessari, Wayne Thiebaud, Ed Ruscha, Andy Warhol, David Hockney, and Jasper Johns, alongside the work of contemporary artists, like Alison Saar, Lorna Simpson, Enrique Chagoya, Rachel Whiteread, and Jenny Holzer, among others.

The Art of Food features more than 100 works in mediums that include drawings, paintings, photographs, prints, sculptures, and ceramics by 37 artists.

Each artist has a unique means of depicting food in their work that, when seen alongside others, creates a nuanced representation of the complex place food holds in everyday life. Cross-historical resonances between artists in the exhibition spark novel meditations on food and its discontents, while speaking to a broad range of audiences.

The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad
Sep 25 @ 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Back by popular demand, The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad exhibition offers guests:

  • An opportunity to view rarely-seen treasures from the Biltmore collection
  • A first-hand look at the Vanderbilts’ lifestyle
  • Deeper insights into George, Edith, and Cornelia’s personalities, both at home and on their extensive travels

Access to exhibitions at The Biltmore Legacy is included with Biltmore daytime admission.

Western North Carolina Glass: Selections from the Collection
Sep 25 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Asheville Art Museum

Western North Carolina is important in the history of American glass art. Several artists of the Studio Glass Movement came to the region, including its founder Harvey K. Littleton. Begun in 1962 in Wisconsin, it was a student of Littleton’s that first came to the area in 1965 and set up a glass studio at the Penland School of Craft in Penland, North Carolina. By 1967, Mark Peiser was the first glass artist resident at the school and taught many notable artists, like Jak Brewer in 1968 and Richard Ritter who came to study in 1971. By 1977, Littleton retired from teaching and moved to nearby Spruce Pine, North Carolina and set up a glass studio at his home.

Since that time, glass artists like Ken Carder, Rick and Valerie Beck, Shane Fero, and Yaffa Sikorsky and Jeff Todd—to name only a few—have flocked to the area to reside, collaborate, and teach, making it a significant place for experimentation and education in glass. The next generation of artists like Hayden Wilson and Alex Bernstein continue to create here. The Museum is dedicated to collecting American studio glass and within that umbrella, explores the work of Artists connected to Western North Carolina. Exhibitions, including Intersections of American Art, explore glass art in the context of American Art of the 20th and 21st centuries. A variety of techniques and a willingness to push boundaries of the medium can be seen in this selection of works from the Museum’s Collection.

Drop-In Crochet Lessons with Flowstate Artist in Residence Ingrid Phillip
Sep 25 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
East Asheville Library

Learn the art of crochet with September Flowstate artist in residence Ingrid Phillip!
Free. Ages 8 & up. Snacks provided!
Space is limited. To register, please stop by or call the library at 828-250-4738.

Apple Country Woodcrafters
Sep 25 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Grace Lutheran Church in Hendersonville
Meetings are held monthly on the fourth Monday with a social at 6:00 p.m. and the meeting following at 6:30 p.m. Most end around 8:00 p.m. Meetings are held at the Grace Lutheran Church in Hendersonville at 1245 6th Avenue. Most meetings include a Show & Tell segment with members sharing their work, and a Feature Presentation with a guest speaker covering a wide variety of woodworking topics.
 
Additionally, the club periodically schedules field trips, visiting operations of interest to its members. Past field trips have included saw mills, chair makers and woodcraft suppliers.
 
The public is welcome to attend our monthly meetings or to stop by our shop. New members of any skill level are always welcome.

Weekly Ping Pong Tournament
Sep 25 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Sovereign Kava

Asheville’s best ping-pong players join Asheville’s worst table-tennis players at Sovereign Kava every Thursday at 7 p.m. to battle for glory and a $50 bar tab. No charge.
Whether you learned to play in the basement as a kid, or in a prison as a young adult, or in a rehab facility as an older adult, this is the tournament for you.
Located just down the hill on the Asheville-side of Mission Hospital, we are convenient walking distance to medical help after you get your heart broken on our Butterfly table.
Bring your paddle or borrow one of ours. Open to all skill levels and clothing styles. Beginners welcome. Hell, we’re ALL rusty after not playing during the Pandemic so don’t let that stop you.
Our table-tennis table is open for play 7 days a week, noon to 11 p.m. unless there’s a music event.
Here’s a link to a video from our 2019 table tennis tourney:
https://youtu.be/w_1EFEzx9sA

Freshen Up Comedy Showcase
Sep 25 @ 6:30 pm
Noble Cider Downtown

Freshen Up Comedy Showcase is the first monday of every month. The showcase highlights the best local comics from the Freshen Up Open Mic that happens every Monday at Noble Cider downtown.

Local comics come out each week to try all of their new material and the best come back for the showcase.

Ryan Gordon hosts Freshen Up and this month we also feature secret guests!

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no cover, but $10 donation is encouraged

LAZOOM Tours: GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR
Sep 25 @ 7:00 pm
LaZoom Room


GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR

Grab a local beer, crucifix and a rubber chicken* —You might survive this hour long hilarious haunted ghost tour of Asheville.

  • Guided comedy bus tour of Haunted Asheville
  • 60 minutes; tours run nightly after dark
  • $33 per person (Ages 17+ only)
  • Departs from 76 Biltmore Avenue

*Legal Note: Crucifix not required to board the bus; we do not condone exorcisms, chickens, rubber, or any combination of the three.

BEER AND HYMNS Benefit
Sep 25 @ 7:30 pm
White Horse Black Mountain

White Horse is excited to launch a new monthly concert series, BEER AND HYMNS.

Beer & Hymns brings people together to raise our glasses, raise our voices, 

and raise funds for organizations that change the world.

The Beer and Hymns concept is simple:

Come together as a community once a month to:

  • sing hymns 
  • drink beer (or other beverages)
  • raise money for various nonprofits ( in the Swannanoa Valley in our case)

Group singing is loved and appreciated by many. For some they sing hymns every Sunday with other members of their faith community. Others may not have been inside a church for decade, but they miss the hymns and the sounds of voices joined together in song.

This event is intended for everyone in the community.

 

___________

In addition to the joy of group singing, you’ll be raising money for various charitable organizations in Black Mountain and the Swannanoa Valley. Each month a different local nonprofit will be selected as the beneficiary of the monthly event.

Lift A Glass

Sing A Song

Help Others

Tuesday, September 26, 2023
Applications open: 2024 Asheville Fringe Arts Festival
Sep 26 all-day
online w/ Asheville Fringe Arts

APPLICATIONS OPEN NOW!

Do you have a boundary-pushing, innovative performance piece, short film or installation that you’re ready to share?

We will open applications for the film portion of the festival in fall 2023. Films must be submitted via FilmFreeway. Our application fee for films is $5.


NOW CONSIDERING WORKS OF ALL KINDS

We accept live performances from 5 to 60 minutes in length, plus installations and films. We’re open to other types of performance as well – let’s talk! Depending on its length, your piece may be grouped with another show, or scheduled as a Random Act of Fringe. RAFs are free and open to the public, and artists receive a stipend for their performance, rather than relying on door sales.

Typically each artist with a ticketed show gets 2 performances. But in 2024, we’re exploring the option of giving a few shows 3 performances, at select venues only. Our venues range from 20-80 person capacity.

1. FRINGE SHOT

A piece that is
5-15 minutes long

May be paired with another performance, or be selected as a free Random Act of Fringe.

2. SHORT FORM

A piece that is
20-40 minutes long

May be paired with another show.

3. FULL-LENGTH

A piece that is
45-60 minutes long

Ticketed theater-style show.

4. INSTALLATION

A piece that is
Site-specific (any length)

May be in an unusual location, or repeated many times. May be seen by as few as one person at a time.

5. FILM

A piece that is
Designed specifically for film.

May be of any genre & length. Could be combined with other films for a showcase or film night.
Submit on Film Freeway Fall 2023

3. THE ASHEVILLE FRINGE ARTS FESTIVAL IS A JURIED FESTIVAL.

We carefully review each and every submission. You’ll know by late October if your piece is selected. Should your piece get selected, there is a $35 participation fee.

ArtsAVL’s: Thomas Wolfe Auditorium FAQ is Now Live
Sep 26 all-day
online

ArtsAVL’s first Town Hall of 2023-24, focused on the current state and future possibilities for Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, drew over 400 attendees. ArtsAVL collected your questions after the event for an FAQ page. This page will continue to be updated as the discussion evolves. Answered questions include possible next steps, details of non-ticketed events that happen in the auditorium, the economic impact of the space’s closure, and much more.

 

Missed the Town Hall? Read our article here, and watch the video here.

 

Immediate Next Steps: City Council will hold a special meeting on Tues, Sept 26 at 3pm

Learn More & Ask Your Questions
Buncombe County Special Collections call for proposals
Sep 26 all-day
online

Buncombe County Special Collections is excited to announce a call for proposals for the third year of its creative residency program.

This is an annual opportunity for artists in Buncombe County to create new, research-driven creative work using BCSC’s historic resources as source material and/or inspiration, and to present their work in the Carolina Record Shop, a dedicated exhibition space in the BCSC reading room. Artists age 18 and up, based in Buncombe County, working in any creative discipline are invited to apply.

Buncombe County Special Collections is looking for projects that will:

  • Offer new, diverse perspectives on our shared history
  • Identify and address gaps and/or amplify narratives that are historically underrepresented in the collection
  • Educate and inspire non-traditional users of archives and special collections to engage with the collection in new ways.

More information (including the PDF of the call for proposals) is available at here. The 2024 Creative Residency is made possible in part by the Trust Fund for Buncombe County Public Libraries.

You can also visit Buncombe County Special Collections in the lower level of Pack Memorial to view the current exhibition in the Carolina Record Shop, “Belonging & Non-Belonging: The History and Future of Zines in Western North Carolina,” curated by 2023 resident Miles Lamberson.

College Street Parking Deck Applications
Sep 26 all-day
online

Do you work in downtown Asheville? If so, Buncombe County’s expanded affordable parking program could save you hundreds of your hard-earned dollars. The program already includes 150 spots at the Coxe Avenue parking deck (located at 11 Sears Alley) for a discounted price of $40 per month. After research and public input, the County is excited to offer an additional 50 spots at the College Street parking deck (located at 164 College Street, across from the judicial complex) for $40 per month. This initiative, focused on service industry and retail workers, is now taking applications.

The expansion of the Affordable Parking Program comes after nearly 800 survey respondents shared their support and echoed the need for the program. To help meet that demand, the County is now offering a total of 200 discounted spots for downtown workers. “We’ve heard a lot of positive feedback, and it’s helping a lot of people. Behind housing, transportation is next highest expense for many people… so providing people in the workforce with an affordable way to get close to where they work is really very valuable,” said Commission Chair Brownie Newman.

To be eligible, you need to work in Downtown Asheville and make 80% area median income (AMI), which is less than $22.88 per hour or $3,967 per month. Applications are now open for the program, and it offers 75 spots at Coxe Avenue and 50 at College Street. If you think you’re eligible, then please go ahead and apply.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: International Literacy Month
Sep 26 all-day
online
We are currently celebrating Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library gifting 200 million books globally since 1995. In honor of this milestone, seven magical Dolly bookmarks will be hidden in Imagination Library books for enrolled children and families during September’s International Literacy Month.
Lucky recipients who discover the bookmarks will have the chance to receive a video chat, a personalized letter, autographed photo from Dolly, and four Dollywood Theme Park tickets. Additionally, the Dollywood Foundation will donate $2000 on behalf of each chosen child to their local Imagination Library partner, recognizing them as the true heroes of the program.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library impacts the pre­-literacy skills and school readiness of children under the age of 5 in Buncombe County. The program mails a new, free, age-appropriate book to registered children each month until they turn five years old. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library creates a home library of up to 60 books and instills a love of books and reading from an early age. If you have any questions about the program, please send an email to [email protected].

A national panel of educators selects the Imagination Library titles, which include: The Little Engine that Could, Last Stop on Market Street, Violet the Pilot, As an Oak Tree Grows, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Llama Llama Red Pajama, Look Out Kindergarten, here I come, and many more (take a look at all the titles).

Register your child now!

Program Launch and Expansions

Literacy Together became a Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library affiliate in November 2015 with support from the Buncombe Partnership for Children. Through this program, registered children in Buncombe County receive a free book in the mail each month. Their parents also have the opportunity to attend workshops to learn how to build their children’s early literacy skills. Parents in need of literacy assistance are encouraged to receive tutoring through Literacy Together’s adult programming.

The program served 200 children during the 2015/16 fiscal year. The program expanded to serve 400 children in July 2016, and 600 in August 2017. In July 2018, capacity increased to 1,900 thanks to a special allocation in the North Carolina state budget. We’re now serving 4,600 kids in Buncombe County.  

Food Drive for MANNA FoodBank
Sep 26 all-day
Buncombe County Public Libraries

 

Did you know MANNA FoodBank provides more than 58,000 meals a day in Western North Carolina? MANNA works in partnership with the Buncombe County Community Connectors to provide much-needed food to 12 locations in under-resourced areas throughout our community. Donations will be collected for two weeks at area libraries and select public-facing County buildings beginning September 25 and ending on October 7.

MANNA served over 155,000 people in June 2023, which was another alarming high in a months-long trend of tens of thousands of people across the mountains needing food support each week. March 2023 marked the end of the pandemic-era SNAP benefit expansion, resulting in a new peak that has since continued to climb.

Buncombe County is asking the community to pitch in to help meet this need by dropping food items by one of our 12 Buncombe County Public Libraries or public-facing buildings.

You can drop off donations at the following locations around Buncombe County (look for the collection bins and signs):

  • Public libraries
    • Black Mountain
    • East Asheville
    • Enka Candler
    • Fairview
    • Leicester
    • North Asheville
    • Oakley/South Asheville
    • Pack Memorial
    • Skyland/South Buncombe
    • Swannanoa
    • Weaverville
    • West Asheville
  • Register of Deeds at 205 College St.
  • Tax at 94 Cox Ave.
  • HHS building at 40 Coxe Ave.
  • Elections at 59 Woodfin
  • Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin
  • Permits and Inspections at 30 Valley St.
  • County administration building at 200 College St.

MANNA’s most-needed items include: 

  • Canned meats (beef, chicken, tuna)
  • Peanut butter (plastic jars only)
  • Dried/canned beans (pork and beans, pinto, kidney, black)
  • Hearty soups (pop-top cans preferred)
  • Meals in a box or can (beef stew, chili, mac & cheese)
  • Canned fruit (fruit cocktail, raisins, apple sauce)
  • Canned vegetables (green beans, carrots, greens)
  • Cereals and grains (rice, pasta, cereal in a box or bag)
  • Fruit and vegetable juices
  • Dry milk (instant non-fat)

Thank you to everyone for helping us with this initiative to support children and families throughout our community.

Food Scraps Drop Off: Oakley Community Center
Sep 26 all-day
Murphy Oakley Community Center and Library

Food Scraps Drop Off

The City of Asheville, in partnership with Buncombe County and the Natural Resources Defense Council, is offering a FREE Food Scrap Drop-Off program in two locations for all Buncombe County residents.  This organic matter will be collected and turned into good clean compost, keeping it OUT of our landfill and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

 

Register for Food Scraps Drop Off

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Need a handy kitchen countertop food scrap bin?  Let us know on the registration form! We’ll be having bin giveaways at city and county facilities and would love to give you one.

 

Locations

Murphy Oakley Community Center and Library – “Food Scrap Bin Shelters” on the east side of the parking lot

749 Fairview Road, Asheville

    • Dawn – Dusk

Stephens-Lee Recreation Center “Food Scrap Shed” next to the Community Garden on the North side of the parking lot

30 Washington Carver Avenue, Asheville

    • Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    • Saturday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
    • Sunday, 12 – 4 p.m.

West Asheville Library – “Food Scrap Bin Shelters” on the south side of the building

942 Haywood Road, Asheville

    • Library open hours
    • Buncombe County Landfill – Convenience Center

      85 Panther Branch Road, Alexander

        • Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
        • Saturday, 8 a.m. – 12:30 pm
Homeowner Grant Program Inquiry Process Open
Sep 26 all-day
online

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Buncombe County is excited to announce the inquiry process for the 2023 Homeowner Grant Program opens Aug. 1. This program is officially in its third year, and qualified homeowners will have an opportunity to receive financial assistance for housing-related costs. The website buncombecounty.org/homeownergrant will start accepting inquiries Aug. 1-Sept. 30, or homeowners can call (828) 250-5500. You must call or submit an inquiry to determine eligibility.

You may qualify for up to $300 in unincorporated Buncombe County, and up to $500 in City of Asheville. Please note that applicants who received grants last year will need to re-apply.

Through this program, residents who own residential property in Buncombe County that they have lived in as their primary residence for at least five years and who earn at or less than 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) as a household may be eligible to participate.

If eligible, grantees may choose to have grant funds applied to their property tax bill and/or paid and applied to other housing-related obligations such as housing costs, mortgage, or homeowner’s insurance. Payments are made directly to the source of the approved bill. Payments will not be made directly to individuals. There are several new aspects to this year’s program including new eligibility requirements, and now mobile-home owners may receive the grants.

  • You must have owned and lived in your home for 5 years or more
  • Your home must by your primary and only residence
  • Your household income is at or below 80% of area median income (AMI)
  • Your household cannot already be receiving tax deferment assistance like elderly/disabled, or Veterans exemptions.
  • You must not have more than $60,000 in liquid resources (for example: your cash on hand, checking & savings accounts combined, or other investments available to you within 7 days)

The inquiry process will be open through Sept. 30. Eligible homeowners can submit an inquiry at buncombecounty.org/homeownergrant after Aug. 1 or call (828) 250-5500 to start the application process. Phone support is available in any language. Please note that we anticipate a high volume of calls and inquiries at the onset, and it may take a few weeks for a case manager to get back with you.

“If you think you may qualify, but you aren’t sure, please give our team a call,” says Economic Services Director Phillip Hardin. “We know there are a number of unique circumstances, and our staff will work with homeowners to help find solutions.”

Hops for Hunger w/ 12 Bones Brewing and Appalachian Mountain Brewing
Sep 26 all-day
12 Bones Brewing and Appalachian Mountain Brewing

This month, you can make a difference for someone needing food by enjoying a local beer! Our friends at 12 Bones Brewing and Appalachian Mountain Brewing are designating one of their delicious beers as their Pint with Purpose, where every beer sold in September helps provide FOUR MEALS we can get to our neighbors right now!

12 Bones Brewing will be donating $1 of every pint of Coastal Grandmother Kölsch, and Appalachian Mountain Brewery is donating $1 for every pint of their Spoaty Oaty Pale Ale!

Thank you to these Hops for Hunger brewery partners for taking action in September to help feed WNC families!

 

12 Bones Brewing   5 Foundy St Ste 10, Asheville, NC 28801

Appalachian Mountain Brewing 46 N Mills River Rd, Mills River, Nc 28759

LEAF Fall Festival, ‘Legends of The Americas’: Full schedule announcement
Sep 26 all-day
Lake Eden, Black Mountain, NC

🧡 LET THE HEALING BEGIN:
HEALING ARTS SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED! 🧡

LEAF Global Arts is here for ALL the arts, from music and dance to visual and performance art. Add to that list Healing Arts, which allow us to more deeply experience LEAF Festival — and ourselves! (Look for a reveal of Handcraft Artists & Vendors next week.)

Expand your LEAF weekend with Healing Arts, Movement, and Earth Skills workshops, all with the intention of helping you flow with whatever comes your way. Enjoy flow yoga to live music, nature hikes, dance, music workshops, sound healing, meditation, and more.

“Incredibly excited for the Fall healing arts and earth skills workshop offerings. There is something for everyone, including various types of yoga, meditation, kudzu basket weaving, sound healing, dance,

forest bathing, exploring your personal strengths, and more.

Fill your weekend with self care for your mind, body, and soul.

We are grateful for all the artists coming to LEAF Festival.”

~ Madison, LEAF Vendor Coordinator 

Buy Tickets & Lodging

🎉 READY, SET, LEAF! 🎉

FULL PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE WITH TIMES ANNOUNCED!

“We are beyond thrilled to unveil our meticulously crafted schedule for LEAF’s Fall Festival, ‘Legends of The Americas,’ October 19-22, complete with TIMES and all the latest updates. Every moment has been designed with you in mind, forging connections that transcend borders and ignite the spirit. We call to every soul, near and far, to dive deep into the enchantment that awaits. Let the rhythm of these magical cultures enthrall you, let the melodies tell stories that resonate with the heart.

The world of LEAF beckons — are you ready to witness the magic?

Dive in now!”

~ Otto Vazquez, Artistic Curator

Membership with the Organic Growers School
Sep 26 all-day
online
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OGS has kicked off its membership opportunities for donors. We depend on the community and members like you.  Become a member and help the Organic Growers School transform the food system to serve the needs of all people.

 

Donate at the $120 level or more, once annually or in monthly increments, to receive an OGS gift! Plus, you’ll receive discounts to OGS special events, 10% off select OGS programs such as the Gardening Series, Homegrown Dream, Farm Dreams, and the annual Spring Conference, and discounts from our partners listed below:

  • Chelsea Green Publishing – 35% off
  • Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine- 10% off
  • Fifth Season Gardening Company – 10% orders of $50 or more
  • Mountain Rose Herbs  – 10% off
  • New Society Publishers – 35% off
  • Seven Springs Farm Supply – 7% off
  • And many more to come!

Becoming a member is as simple as making a contribution as mentioned above, and we’ll handle everything else for you!

Pollinator Raffle benefit: Asheville City and Buncombe County School teachers
Sep 26 all-day
online

Only 200 tickets will be sold! Deadline to purchase tickets is September 30, drawing will be held October 2, 2023. The winner receives a site consultation followed by a fully-installed up to 10ft X 10ft native pollinator garden located in Buncombe or adjoining county.  Skilled “Pollenteers” will provide complete site preparation, soil conditioning, and a detailed management plan for your new garden.

Your raffle ticket will support Asheville City and Buncombe County School teacher registrations for the educational Symbolic Monarch Migration program.

ReStore ReUse Contest
Sep 26 all-day
online

The local ReStore ReUse Contest is officially open for
submissions. Now through September 30, residents can show off their creativity and talent for
a chance to win in the 12 th annual contest. Fabulous furniture make-overs, remarkable
renovations, or unique yard art…if you recently took on a DIY project using predominantly
reused building materials, the Asheville Habitat ReStore wants to know. There are five
categories this year plus Best in Show, and all entries must be submitted electronically. For
guidelines and entry form, visit ashevillehabitat.org/restore .

The creativity of this community never ceases to amaze. Past projects have included a fence
fashioned from doors, a potting bench built from pallets, a wine bar made from a vintage
console radio, a chair constructed from an oil drum, and so much more. To see photos from
2022, click here.
A panel of five judges will select winners in the following categories: Furniture, Homesteading,
Live/Work Space, Home Décor, Art + Best in Show. Winners will be announced in mid-
October.

Septic Repair Assistance Program
Sep 26 all-day
online

If you’ve been struggling to complete a septic system repair at your home, Buncombe County may be able to help homeowners with the cost of the project through a unique grant opportunity. The Septic Repair Assistance Program (SRP) provides financial assistance to repair failing septic systems for qualifying homeowners who do not meet the income limit of 80% of Buncombe County Area Median Income ($64,250 for a family of four). Applications are accepted continuously until further notice.

Previous program participants report that the application process is easy and agree that the program benefits are important as it can be expensive to repair septic systems. If you think you may qualify, please call our staff at (828) 250-5360 to learn more about this opportunity and to see if you qualify.

To apply for financial assistance, you must:

  • Be a resident of Buncombe County and own and occupy your home.
  • Obtain a septic system repair permit from Buncombe County Environmental Health. To request a repair permit, you must submit an application to Environmental Health. Once the application is received, an Environmental Health Specialist will make a site visit and evaluate the existing system, determine repair options, and issue a repair permit.
  • Obtain bids from at least three septic system contractors. Once the repair permit has been issued, you are responsible for obtaining bids from at least three contractors. A bid is an estimate of how much the repair will cost. We recommend that you request bids from more than three contractors to ensure that you receive at least three of the bids in a timely manner.
  • Complete a Grant Application form. This form requests specific information needed to determine grant eligibility, including verification of income.
  • Submit the Grant Application and copies of three contractor bids to Buncombe County Permits & Inspections, 30 Valley St., Asheville, NC 28801 or [email protected].

For more information, please see the attached document. Applications will be accepted until further notice.

Special Olympics Fall Sports Registration is OPEN
Sep 26 all-day
online

Special Olympics Fall sports registration is now OPEN!

Choose your sport and join the fun! Athletes can pick from soccer, bocce, basketball, and tennis. For any questions, please email [email protected]!

Register here!    

Special Olympics Fall Sports Interest Form (office.com)

VOTE FOR Appalachian Wild: Animal, Wildlife and Marine Welfare Award
Sep 26 all-day
online

APPALACHIAN WILD AND HELP THE ORGANIZATION WIN A LAND ROVER DEFENDER

VOTE TODAY! 

CLICK HERE TO VOTE

VOTE!

 

 

Wilderness Medicine + Survival Skills at Nantahala Outdoor Center
Sep 26 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

LEARN MORE THIS YEAR

Brush up on your wilderness medicine or learn new survival skills! SOLO Southeast & NOC are offering over 200 courses in 2023 and classes in locations across the southeast.

  • Atlanta, GA
  • Bryson City, NC
  • Chattanooga, TN
  • Collegedale, TN
  • Greenville, SC

Find your next course with SOLO Southeast and be prepared for the unexpected!

Wildlife Husbandry ​Fall Internships
Sep 26 all-day
online

Fall internships have a minimum requirement of 12 hours per week that will be completed within a weekly schedule determined prior to beginning the internship. Interns are required to commit to a 4-5 month internship period. Hour commitments are based on seasonal needs.

No two days in wildlife rehabilitation are the same. Interns must be flexible, dedicated, dependable, and comfortable working as part of a team with fellow interns and volunteers. As well as communicating with the public as needed, interns will carry out a weekly set schedule that they are accountable for during the entirety of their internship.

Wildlife Husbandry Interns (12 hours/week) As a Wildlife Husbandry Intern, you will play a vital role in all aspects of our wildlife rehabilitation operations. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in wildlife care, rehabilitation processes, and facility management while contributing to the well-being of injured and orphaned wildlife in Western North Carolina. This internship provides an immersive experience in various aspects of wildlife care and rehabilitation, based on the intern’s interest.

Responsibilities:

  • Wildlife Rehabilitation: Participate in the full rehabilitation process, including feeding, cleaning, record-keeping, and monitoring the progress of wildlife patients. Assist in the medical treatment and documentation as directed by staff. Observe and learn how to safely handle, feed, and care for various species of wildlife.
  • Daily Animal Care: Provide attentive and compassionate care to injured and orphaned wildlife and their enclosures. Ensure enclosures are clean, safe, and appropriately equipped for the animals’ needs. Assist with feeding schedules and dietary preparations.
  • Animal Husbandry: Learn and practice proper animal husbandry techniques to ensure the well-being of the wildlife in our care. Assist with environmental enrichment activities to stimulate natural behaviors.
  • Wildlife Transport and Communication: Support wildlife transport efforts as needed, ensuring the safe and secure transfer of animals. Collaborate with the wildlife rehabilitation network in Western North Carolina to facilitate seamless communication and animal transfers.
  • Facility Upkeep and Maintenance: Contribute to the cleanliness and organization of the rehabilitation facility. Assist in facility maintenance tasks to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.

Details:

  • The internship requires a commitment of at least 5 months.
  • Start and end dates are flexible to accommodate academic schedules.
  • The intern will work approximately 12 hours per week at the wildlife rehabilitation facility in Candler, NC.


Qualifications:

  • Flexibility and adaptability.
  • Dedication and reliability.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Willingness to learn.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting with fellow interns and volunteers.
  • Passion for the rescue and rehabilitation of injured wildlife.

Benefits:

  • Gain invaluable hands-on experience in wildlife rehabilitation and animal care.
  • Learn from experienced professionals in the field of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.
  • Develop critical skills in animal husbandry, medical care, and facility management.
  • Contribute to the conservation efforts of a respected wildlife refuge.
  • Opportunity to explore various aspects of a non-profit organization.
Asheville Parks + Recreation Adult fall athletic programs + sports leagues
Sep 26 @ 7:00 am
Various Locations

With multiple parks featuring ballfields and volleyball, pickleball, tennis, and basketball courts, Asheville has plenty of opportunities to join pick-up games or play with organized sports leagues. Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) offers a broad line-up of youth athletics programs, adult sports leagues, and special events throughout the year with an emphasis on fair play and enjoyment for any level of experience, including the fall opportunities below.

Search Current Asheville Sports and Athletics

Limited spots available, so advance registration at AVLREC.com required. Some activities offer discounted registration for early sign ups. Most team sports also offer “looking for a team” options for free agents. Some activities charge a higher rate for participants who do not live in Asheville.

Leagues

6v6 Indoor Volleyball League, $200 per team

Registration opens November 27, games begin January 16 for winter season

Upper, middle, and lower divisions play at Tempie Avery Montford Community Center.

Over 40 Basketball League, $60 per player

Registration ends August 24, games begin September 12

Asheville’s newest team sports league provides an opportunity for community members over 40 who want to get back into the game or prefer to play with others around the same age. Sign up as an individual to be placed on a team based on height, position, and skill level for games played at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center.

Flag Football League, $600 per team

Registration opens August 30, games begin October 17

Upper, middle, and lower divisions play at Asheville Middle School on 211 South French Broad Avenue.

Winter Basketball League, $600 per team

Registration opens October 10, games begin November 27

Upper and lower divisions play at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center. Middle division plays at Stephens-Lee Community Center.

Clinics and Tournaments

Tennis Clinic, $20 per player

Registration ends September 6, clinics held each Tuesday and Thursday from September 12-21

Instructional clinics for beginners and intermediate players teach the basics and build on skills each class at Murphy-Oakley Park.

Doubles Grass Volleyball Tournament, $20 per team

Registration ends September 5, tournament on September 16

Six sets to 21 in pool play for advance and intermediate divisions in which all teams advance to the playoffs on a day of music, fun, and volleyball at Carrier Park.

Intro to Golf, $10 for series with players responsible for their own green fees

Registration ends September 28, games played each Wednesday from October 4-25

Travel to a different golf course each week for one-on-one coaching to learn the game. For more info, contact Colt Miller at [email protected] or (828) 707-2376.

Pumpkin Ball Softball Bash Tournament, $150 per team

Registration ends September 30, tournament on October 7

All players hit a 16-inch softball in games played on a 200-foot distance field with unlimited home runs with a three-game guarantee. Winning teams receive prizes and trophies. For more info, contact Zack Stewart at [email protected] or (828) 545-1644.

Late Night Wiffleball Tournament, $5 per team

Registration ends November 9, tournament on November 16

Five-player teams play in this two-game guarantee tournament at Tempie Avery Montford Community Center. For more info, contact Kiley Pritchard at [email protected] or (828) 507-3357.

 

Food Scraps Drop Off: Stephens-Lee Recreation Center
Sep 26 @ 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Stephens-Lee Recreation Center

Food Scraps Drop Off

The City of Asheville, in partnership with Buncombe County and the Natural Resources Defense Council, is offering a FREE Food Scrap Drop-Off program in

two locations for all Buncombe County residents.  This organic matter will be collected and turned into good clean compost, keeping it OUT of our landfill and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

 

Register for Food Scraps Drop Off

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Need a handy kitchen countertop food scrap bin?  Let us know on the registration form! We’ll be having bin giveaways at city and county facilities and would love to give you one.

 

Locations

Stephens-Lee Recreation Center “Food Scrap Shed” next to the Community Garden on the North side of the parking lot

30 Washington Carver Avenue, Asheville

    • Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    • Saturday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
    • Sunday, 12 – 4 p.m.

Murphy Oakley Community Center and Library – “Food Scrap Bin Shelters” on the east side of the parking lot

749 Fairview Road, Asheville

    • Dawn – Dusk

West Asheville Library – “Food Scrap Bin Shelters” on the south side of the building

942 Haywood Road, Asheville

    • Library open hours
    • Buncombe County Landfill – Convenience Center85 Panther Branch Road, Alexander
        • Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
        • Saturday, 8 a.m. – 12:30 pm