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, November 24, 2025
Hike with a Naturalist
Nov 24 @ 11:00 am
Chimney Rock State Park

Hike with a Naturalist

Watch the park transform week-by-week while you hike one of our six unique trails with a naturalist guide every Monday morning in November. Fall color lingers at the beginning of November, and as we approach Thanksgiving the forest prepares for winter.

To register for this event, please call our office at 828-625-9611 Monday through Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm, or email [email protected] any time.

Thursday, November 27, 2025
City Dance
Nov 27 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Friday, November 28, 2025
Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters
Nov 28 @ 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Chimney Rock State Park

Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters

Time: 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Cost: Included with Park admission.

Take your holiday weekend to a wild place and join us for Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters. Meet some of our live animal ambassadors, and learn from their naturalist counterparts what important roles they play in our ecosystem all weekend at 2pm.

Saturday, November 29, 2025
Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters
Nov 29 @ 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Chimney Rock State Park

Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters

Time: 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Cost: Included with Park admission.

Take your holiday weekend to a wild place and join us for Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters. Meet some of our live animal ambassadors, and learn from their naturalist counterparts what important roles they play in our ecosystem all weekend at 2pm.

Sunday, November 30, 2025
Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters
Nov 30 @ 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Chimney Rock State Park

Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters

Time: 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Cost: Included with Park admission.

Take your holiday weekend to a wild place and join us for Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters. Meet some of our live animal ambassadors, and learn from their naturalist counterparts what important roles they play in our ecosystem all weekend at 2pm.

Saturday, December 6, 2025
28th Annual Santa on the Chimney
Dec 6 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park

28th Annual Santa on the Chimney

Time: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Cost: Included with Park admission.

Santa has a big job climbing down all the chimneys in the world on Christmas Eve. But where better to practice than one of the world’s largest natural chimneys? Santa will be back in the park this year for his Christmas trial run rappelling down Chimney Rock. Attendees can watch Santa rappel, pose for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, hike with an elf, make holiday crafts, listen to live music, meet some of our live animal ambassadors, and more.

Sunday, December 7, 2025
Woven Word Retreat
Dec 7 @ 12:00 am – 12:00 pm
House Boheme

Join us for the Woven Word Retreat – a cozy bohemian winter writing retreat for women nestled in the tranquil beauty of House Boheme. This is a transformative, creative, all-inclusive gathering designed to awaken your inner storyteller.

This 4-day, 3-night experience weaves poetry, movement, ritual, nourishment, and embodied storytelling to stir the creatrix within.

Guided by skilled and popular local facilitators who will help you explore your voice and connect deeply with yourself and others, you’ll have the space to write, reflect, and express your truth in a supportive, welcoming space.

Expect soul-nourishing practices like Yoga Nidra, writing workshops, yoga, and more, plus time to ground into nature and connect with a community of women.

Whether you’re new to writing or a seasoned storyteller, you’ll leave feeling inspired, empowered, and more aligned with your creative spirit.

Learn more and secure your spot at www.wovenwordretreat.com

Saturday, December 13, 2025
28th Annual Santa on the Chimney
Dec 13 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park

28th Annual Santa on the Chimney

Time: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Cost: Included with Park admission.

Santa has a big job climbing down all the chimneys in the world on Christmas Eve. But where better to practice than one of the world’s largest natural chimneys? Santa will be back in the park this year for his Christmas trial run rappelling down Chimney Rock. Attendees can watch Santa rappel, pose for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, hike with an elf, make holiday crafts, listen to live music, meet some of our live animal ambassadors, and more.

Enamel a Silver Charm
Dec 13 @ 11:00 am – 12:15 pm
Ignite Jewelry Studios

Spend an hour +/- in the studio making a sterling silver and enamel charm.

Choose your charm shape and your favorite color(s) of enamel. You’ll sift the enamel onto the silver charm then fire it in a kiln to flow the glass enamel onto the silver, and repeat until your piece is complete!

Leave class with a finished charm you made yourself! Optional chain available for in-class purchase.

Level: Beginner Friendly

Wear comfortable clothing and arrive about 15 minutes ahead to sign a waiver and get settled. Our study is in downtown Asheville and there are 2 parking garages close by: Harrah’s and Rankin

Thursday, December 18, 2025
Drop In Simply Charmed and Copper Ornament Making
Dec 18 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Ignite Jewelry Studios

**Show up at Ignite Jewelry Studios anytime between 11am and 3pm to make your charms!

This is the perfect way to spend a part of your day while visiting our downtown Asheville metalsmithing studio and gallery. Come stamp and hammer a charm to your liking! Choose from more than 60 styles of metal stamps and a variety of jewelers hammers to complete your charm. You will start with a rectangular brass base, (or upgrade to sterling silver in a variety of shapes and styles) then choose your silver accent piece, and finally a gemstone of choice. After a quick demo by the instructor you can spend the next 45 minutes to complete your masterpiece.

You can also choose a copper ornament to stamp on this day!

Our magnetic tumbler will polish your piece to perfection and you have an option of some finishing patinas as well. Upgrade to earrings, make additional pendants for friends etc.

$45 Base Price includes a brass charm and base metal chain or 1 copper ornament with thread loop. (Some silver upgrades available for additional cost and additional pieces may be purchased to make gifts, extras, etc!)

This is family friendly, kid friendly ages 5 and up (but the littles will need help with the hammering), and a great rainy day or indoor activity in downtown Asheville!

Saturday, December 20, 2025
Naturalist Niche: Winter Woods
Dec 20 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park

Naturalist Niche: Winter Woods

Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Cost: $25 Adult, $15 Youth (ages 5-15) | $11 Adult Annual Passholder, $9 Youth Annual Passholder

Discover the quiet magic of winter at Chimney Rock. Join a naturalist and learn about what makes winter unique here at the Rock, and what our favorite flora and fauna are up to this time of year. Spend the morning enjoying the calm of Hickory Nut Gorge in December.

To register for this event, please call our office at 828-625-9611 Monday through Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm, or email [email protected] any time.

Thursday, December 25, 2025
City Dance
Dec 25 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Sunday, January 18, 2026
Jazz Is for Everyone – Bebop: Jazz Takes Flight
Jan 18 @ 3:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

A Lecture Demonstration Series for the Curious, the New, and the Devotee

Sun, Jan 18 • 3 pm | 60 Minutes
In the 1940s, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Thelonious Monk took jazz to thrilling new heights. The tempos got faster, the harmonies bolder, and the rhythms more complex. Dancers sat down and leaned in to listen. It’s challenging. It’s beautiful. It’s music that asks you to catch up—and rewards you when you do.

Jazz Is for Everyone is a series of five one-hour sessions exploring jazz music. Come to one or join them all—each session stands on its own and welcomes listeners at any level.

What You’ll Experience:

Guided listening
Live music demonstrations
Stories that connect the music to people, places, and intent
A space for questions, curiosity, and shared discovery

Jeremy Walker launched Jazz Is for Everyone in 2004 at his Brilliant Corners Jazz Club, with Wynton Marsalis serving as Artistic Advisor. The program was developed as an Educational Affiliate with Jazz at Lincoln Center. Since then, Walker’s been writing, composing, performing, producing, and speaking about why this music still matters.

Thursday, January 22, 2026
City Dance
Jan 22 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Sunday, February 8, 2026
Jazz Is for Everyone – Free to Be: The Rise of the Artist
Feb 8 @ 3:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

A Lecture Demonstration Series for the Curious, the New, and the Devotee

Sun, Feb 8 • 3 pm | 60 Minutes

In the late 1950s and ’60s, musicians like John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Charles Mingus, Wayne Shorter, Ornette Coleman, and others claimed their place as artists. There wasn’t any real doubt before, but jazz now sat at the heights of contemporary art, fully claiming the aesthetic and compositional achievements originally won by artists like Mary Lou Williams and Ellington. Still, it never stopped being a soulful expression of individuality, inspiration, and a challenge to embrace our highest intent.

Jazz Is for Everyone is a series of five one-hour sessions exploring jazz music. Come to one or join them all—each session stands on its own and welcomes listeners at any level.

What You’ll Experience:

Guided listening
Live music demonstrations
Stories that connect the music to people, places, and intent
A space for questions, curiosity, and shared discovery

Jeremy Walker launched Jazz Is for Everyone in 2004 at his Brilliant Corners Jazz Club, with Wynton Marsalis serving as Artistic Advisor. The program was developed as an Educational Affiliate with Jazz at Lincoln Center. Since then, Walker’s been writing, composing, performing, producing, and speaking about why this music still matters.

Friday, February 13, 2026
5th Annual FuseFest: A Weekend Fused Glass Symposium
Feb 13 @ 5:30 pm – Feb 15 @ 1:30 pm
Tryon Arts & Crafts School

The 5th Annual FuseFest: A Weekend Fused Glass Symposium

Experience the Art of Fused Glass
Welcome to FuseFest 2026! Join us for a weekend-long celebration of fused glass art at the beautiful Tryon Arts and Crafts School (TACS) in Tryon, North Carolina. Whether you’re a seasoned studio artist, an art educator looking for professional development, or a curious enthusiast, FuseFest is designed to inspire and connect you with the vibrant world of fused glass.

This immersive symposium offers a unique opportunity to learn from three acclaimed artists, explore new techniques, and connect with a passionate community.

What’s Happening at FuseFest?
Get ready for an action-packed weekend of learning and networking! FuseFest 2026 features a dynamic program model, including:

Hands-On Workshops: Take 3-hour workshops with each of our three visiting artists. Dive deep into new skills and techniques in a supportive studio environment.

Live Demonstrations & Lectures: Engage with the masters as they showcase their craft and share their artistic journeys.

Networking & Community: Mingle with fellow artists and enthusiasts at our Friday evening social, complete with live demonstrations, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction.

Cross-Curricular Activities: Experience the breadth of TACS’s offerings with live art demonstrations.

You’ll also enjoy delicious local cuisine throughout the weekend, with catered lunches from vendors like Katie D’s NY Bagels and Deli, and a special community dinner on Saturday evening. We’re proud to partner with local businesses like the GreenLife Inn, Tryon Coffeehouse Co-Op, and Tryon Bottle to make your stay in Tryon memorable.

Thursday, February 26, 2026
City Dance
Feb 26 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Friday, March 6, 2026
2026 Spring Conference
Mar 6 – Mar 8 all-day
Mars Hill University

Join us for the Southeast’s largest gathering of farmers, gardeners, land-stewards, and food-system changemakers! Our Spring Conference supports, inspires, and educates people to farm, garden, and live organically by providing affordable, practical, hands-on education. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting out, you’ll leave with connections, knowledge, and inspiration to build a more vibrant, equitable, and abundant food and farming system.

What’s in store:
• Your choice of 60+ classes spanning across 12 track topics including gardening, soils, farming business and production, earth stewardship, sustainable living, and more
• Hands-on workshops from experts across the region and practical demonstrations you can apply right away
• Networking and community-building with growers, educators, and advocates from across the country

Thursday, March 26, 2026
City Dance
Mar 26 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, April 23, 2026
City Dance
Apr 23 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, May 28, 2026
City Dance
May 28 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, June 25, 2026
City Dance
Jun 25 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, July 23, 2026
City Dance
Jul 23 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, August 27, 2026
City Dance
Aug 27 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, September 24, 2026
City Dance
Sep 24 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, October 22, 2026
City Dance
Oct 22 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, November 26, 2026
City Dance
Nov 26 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, December 24, 2026
City Dance
Dec 24 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, January 28, 2027
City Dance
Jan 28 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, February 25, 2027
City Dance
Feb 25 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.