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.

Saturday, July 15, 2023
The Sweet Escape Block Party Celebration
Jul 15 @ 2:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Sweet Escape

Visit The Sweet Escape 2:00 – 9:00pm on Saturday, July 15 for a block party you don’t want to miss! The Sweet Escape will be celebrating its seventh year and welcomes all to join this family-friendly and fun event! There will be cotton candy, popcorn, face painting, bubbles, jump rope, corn hole, music and frozen yogurt will be 20% off ALL DAY.

The Brother West Band at Point Lookout Vineyards
Jul 15 @ 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Point Lookout Vineyards

Come enjoy a Saturday afternoon with the Brother West Band featuring Craig St. John.
Plenty of wine, views, and music!
***Day full of fun including annual craft show!
No cover charge

Summer Sounds in the Gorge
Jul 15 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Nantahala Outdoor Center

From the local favorites to new regional acts, all live from the river banks of the Nantahala. Raft, dine, then jam with us with Live Music every Friday and Saturday from 5pm-8pm between Memorial Day and Labor Day!

May 27th 5pm-8pm – Mama and the Ruckus

May 28th 5pm-8pm – The Lefties

June 2nd 5pm-8pm – Christina Chandler Trio

June 3rd 5pm-8pm – Laura Thurston

June 9th 5pm-8pm – Eddie Clayton

June 10th 1pm-4pm – Jacobs Well

June 10th 5pm-8pm – Natti Love Joys

June 16th 5pm-8pm – Rae and the Ragdolls

June 17th 5pm-8pm – Beer and Loathing

June 23rd 5pm-8pm – TBA

June 24th 5pm-8pm – Terry Haughton Trio

June 30th 5pm-8pm – Blue

July 1st 5pm-8pm – Brown Mountain Lightning Bugs

July 7th 5pm-8pm – Bayou Diesel

July 8th 5pm-8pm – Pioneer Chicken Stand

July 14th 5pm-8pm – Wyatt Espalin

July 15th 5pm-8pm – Christina Chandler Duo

July 21st 5pm-8pm – Terry Haughton

July 22nd 5pm-8pm – TG and the Stoned Rangers

July 28th 5pm-8pm – Blue

July 29th 5pm-8pm – Somebody’s Child

August 4th 5pm-8pm – Trial by Fire

August 5th 5pm-8pm – Andy Johnson

August 11th 5pm-8pm – Eddie Clayton Solo

August 12th 5pm-8pm – Eddie Clayton Band

August 18th 5pm-8pm – Big Deal Band

August 19th 1pm-4pm – Mckinney

August 19th 5pm-8pm – Funk N’ Around

August 25th 5pm-8pm – Wyatt Espalin

August 26th 5pm-8pm – Somebody’s Child

September 1st 5pm-8pm – TBA

September 2nd 5pm-8pm – Regatta 69

LAZOOM Tours: BAND AND BEER TOUR
Jul 15 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
LaZoom Room

Wanna hear the best local music ​and​ drink the best local beers? Hop aboard LaZoom’s Purple Bus and rock out with a local band while we take you on a journey to Asheville’s premiere local breweries.

  • Curated Live Music & Brewery Bus experience
  • 3 Hours long, includes three 30 Minute Local Brewery Stops
  • You Can Drink on the Funky Purple Bus! **Must be purchased at LaZoom or at brewery stop**
Asheville Tourists vs. Winston-Salem Dash –Gold Jersey Giveaway
Jul 15 @ 6:00 pm
McCormick Field

The first 1,000 fans through the gates receive a Gold Jersey courtesy of Prestige Subaru.

Cooking In The Garden with Arturo
Jul 15 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Elder and Sage Community Garden

 

Join Bountiful Cities Saturday July 15th 6-7:30pm for a FREE class. Arturo Carillo is a long-time professional cook and gardener who volunteers  at the Elder and Sage Community Garden in downtown Asheville. He will share techniques and his delightful recipes from his repertoire. Arturo’s family is originally from Ecuador and his cooking is influenced by time spent in his grandparents kitchens.
Hendersonville Honeycrisps Baseball Home Game
Jul 15 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Berkeley Park

, Come out toaka ‘The Orchard’ to watch the
Hendersonville Honeycrisps defend their 2022 Western Division title in The Old North State League. You are bound to see great
plays & big hits while you and your family make memories and are entertained at the ball park! $10, Season runs through July 30th,
Click here for the full schedule: https://www.hendersonvillehoneycrisps.com/schedule

Asheville City Soccer Club Men v North Alabama SC
Jul 15 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Greenwood Field

7/15/23 - ACSC Men v North Alabama SC

Sunday, July 16, 2023
Gravity Mountain Bike National Championship
Jul 16 all-day
Ride Rock Creek

 

The 2023 USA Cycling Gravity Mountain Bike National Championships will be held in beautiful Henderson County, NC, from July 12th to 16th, 2023. This marks the first time our scenic county will host this prestigious national event, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome over 350 talented athletes to our trails as they compete for national titles.

Spectators, here’s some fantastic news for you: admission to this thrilling event is absolutely free! Prepare to witness adrenaline-fueled action as riders tackle the gravity-defying challenges of mountain biking. For a detailed event schedule and further information, please visit USACycling.org and be part of this incredible mountain biking extravaganza.

Spectating

WHAT TO EXPECT

Attention all spectators of the USA Cycling Gravity Mountain Bike National Championships! Get ready for an exhilarating experience like no other. First and foremost, we’re thrilled to announce that this sensational event is free for all on-foot spectators, so gather your friends and family for an unforgettable day of mountain biking action. We are offering a pay-for spectator shuttle pass per day that will give you access to the spectator shuttle up to the top of the mountain. Safety is our utmost priority, which is why we have designated secure areas specifically for spectators to enjoy the races while maintaining a safe distance. Waivers must be signed by all individuals on the property. So come one, come all, as we extend a warm welcome to Rock Creek, where the thrill and excitement of gravity mountain biking awaits you!

National Championships Shuttle Spectator Pass

From: $25.00

Heritage Fire Asheville
Jul 16 all-day
Horse Shoe Farm

Heritage Fire is an outdoor culinary experience that brings together local chefs and memorable brands for a live-fire celebration. With over 20 participants, guests will enjoy an all-inclusive feast while taking in the sights and sounds of an open flame. Savor the flavors of diverse cuisine and premium beverages, all in a unique and unforgettable setting.

After indulging in each dish, the ‘Best Bite of the Day’ will be determined by the crowd, and one champion will be announced.

NOC Paddling School
Jul 16 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

Voted “Best Place to Learn” by Outside, NOC Paddling School has taught more paddlers than anyone else, with 50 years of experience going into every class. Our commitment to the sport and to providing the best possible instruction has not waivered. So come and let us be your respected and experienced instructor.

Wild West Adventure Trips w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
Jul 16 all-day
various locations
Asheville Triathlon
Jul 16 @ 7:30 am – 12:00 pm
Asheville Recreation Park Pool
The Asheville Triathlon course is a super event for every level of triathlete, from novice to elites. Novice + Beginner triathletes love this race! The pool swim is great for new swimmers & the run is flat and easy to navigate. Please note: the bike course has been challenging to some beginners in years past. Be prepared to ride over several challenging hills with steep grades. You will be required to stay on your bike. You may not get off your bike and push it up hills, as this is a safety hazard. Elite athletes – get ready for a PR! This race is fast and is a huge hit among local elites. The time trial swim start in a 50m pool allows swimmers to spread out. The bike leg is flat the first couple miles, so get down in your aero bars and push it. The middle section has some steep hills. Just get outta the saddle and roll over ’em! There are several downhill sections that are smokin’ fast! Many elites have PR’d during the 5k run, so bring your racing flats!
GRAN FONDO ASHEVILLE
Jul 16 @ 8:00 am
Rabbit Rabbit
ONE OF OUR MOST POPULAR EVENTS IN THE SERIES! 3 ROUTES 100 MILES, 60 MILES AND 35 MILES!
Departing Asheville’s vibrant downtown, the routes for Gran Fondo Asheville, presented by Applewood Manor, hit the best serpentine roads, climbs, and descents in the Asheville area. Come see why this region is a road cycling mecca in the United States.
Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience
Jul 16 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

“Shine and Dine” on the railway! We cordially invite you to hop on board The Carolina Shine, GSMR’s All-Adult First Class Moonshine Car! We will be proudly serving hand crafted, triple-distilled, craft moonshine. Some of the smoothest tasting moonshine in the Carolinas! Offered on the Nantahala Gorge excursion, this shine and dine experience begins in a renovated First Class train fleet car, The Carolina Shine. The interior features copper lined walls filled with the history of moonshining in North Carolina. Learn about the proud tradition that the Appalachians established when bootlegging was an acceptable way of life and local home brews were the best in town. Read about Swain County’s very own Major Redmond, the most famous mountain moonshine outlaw of the 19th century. Once your appetite for knowledge is satisfied, enjoy sample tastings of flavors like Apple Pie, Blackberry, Blueberry, Cherry, Peach, and Strawberry moonshine. If the samples are not enough, there will be plenty of Moonshine infused cocktails like Copper Cola or Moonshiner’s Mimosa available for purchase. GSMR is excited to feature multiple craft NC based distilleries to serve our guests only the best! Each jar is handcrafted and authentically infused with real fruit, the way moonshine was meant to be made. Passengers will also enjoy a full service All-Adult First Class ride with an attendant and our popular Cajun seasoned Pulled Pork BBQ with Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce cooked in our special spices and slow roasted to perfection! During the month of October, 9am departures will feature the option of a delicious Cheesy Shrimp & Grits or Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole while 2pm departures will be served the popular BBQ meal.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion
Jul 16 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ALONG SIDE THE BEAUTIFUL NANTAHALA RIVER ON OUR NANTAHALA GORGE EXCURSION! DEPARTING FROM BRYSON CITY, THIS 4½ HOUR ROUNDTRIP EXCURSION CARRIES YOU 44 MILES TO THE NANTAHALA GORGE AND BACK AGAIN ARRIVING AT OUR BRYSON CITY DEPOT.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Onboard dining is available in First Class Seating and selecting from our  First Class Dinning menu options OR you can pre-purchase a box lunch option to make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing!

Itinerary

30m before departure Boarding begins at Bryson City Depot
See schedule for departure time Depart Bryson City, NC
1h 45m Reach top of the line
2h 00m Begin return
2h 30m—3h 30m Layover
3h 30m Depart Layover
4h 30m Arrive at Bryson City Depot
Time from Departure Activity
Burlesque Brunch
Jul 16 @ 11:00 am
The Grey Eagle

Burlesque Brunch is a monthly burlesque and bellydance show with a classic speakeasy feel. Join our dancing dames and dandies every third Sunday of the month for a little singin’, strippin’, and sippin’ starting at noon. It’s a Sunday afternoon to delight the senses!

Burlesque Brunch
Jul 16 @ 12:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

Burlesque Brunch is a monthly burlesque and bellydance show with a classic speakeasy feel. Join our dancing dames and dandies every third Sunday of the month for a little singin’, strippin’, and sippin’ starting at noon. It’s a Sunday afternoon to delight the senses!

LOTS Burlesque Festival – Burlesque Brunch
Jul 16 @ 12:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

-AGES 18+
-SEATED SHOW
-LIMITED VIP TICKETS AVAILABLE

This Summer the Land of the Sky Burlesque Festival in Asheville invites you for a night of combined Cabaret, Variety & Performance Art with Burlesque for a Festival unlike any other. Brunch/food/drinks not included.

Asheville Tourists vs. Winston-Salem Dash
Jul 16 @ 1:00 pm
McCormick Field

Post Game Kids Run the Bases presented by Ingles.

The Super 60s at Point Lookout Vineyards
Jul 16 @ 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Point Lookout Vineyards

Music & Fun & Wines & views
***Day full of fun including annual craft show!
No Cover Charge

Heritage Fire 
Jul 16 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
The Horse Shoe Farm 

READY TO GET FIRED UP?!

DON’T MISS OUT ON HERITAGE FIRE ASHEVILLE!

On July 16, 2023 we invite you to join us at Horse Shoe Farm.

Heritage Fire is an outdoor culinary experience that brings together local chefs and memorable brands for a live-fire celebration. With over 20 participants, guests will enjoy an all-inclusive feast while taking in the sights and sounds of an open flame. Savor the flavors of diverse cuisine and premium beverages, all in a unique and unforgettable setting.

Curious as to what we mean by ‘diverse cuisine’? Take a look HERE.

After indulging in each dish, the ‘Best Bite of the Day’ will be determined by the crowd and one champion will be announced. Check out last year’s Heritage Hero Champions.

Monday, July 17, 2023
Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience
Jul 17 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

“Shine and Dine” on the railway! We cordially invite you to hop on board The Carolina Shine, GSMR’s All-Adult First Class Moonshine Car! We will be proudly serving hand crafted, triple-distilled, craft moonshine. Some of the smoothest tasting moonshine in the Carolinas! Offered on the Nantahala Gorge excursion, this shine and dine experience begins in a renovated First Class train fleet car, The Carolina Shine. The interior features copper lined walls filled with the history of moonshining in North Carolina. Learn about the proud tradition that the Appalachians established when bootlegging was an acceptable way of life and local home brews were the best in town. Read about Swain County’s very own Major Redmond, the most famous mountain moonshine outlaw of the 19th century. Once your appetite for knowledge is satisfied, enjoy sample tastings of flavors like Apple Pie, Blackberry, Blueberry, Cherry, Peach, and Strawberry moonshine. If the samples are not enough, there will be plenty of Moonshine infused cocktails like Copper Cola or Moonshiner’s Mimosa available for purchase. GSMR is excited to feature multiple craft NC based distilleries to serve our guests only the best! Each jar is handcrafted and authentically infused with real fruit, the way moonshine was meant to be made. Passengers will also enjoy a full service All-Adult First Class ride with an attendant and our popular Cajun seasoned Pulled Pork BBQ with Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce cooked in our special spices and slow roasted to perfection! During the month of October, 9am departures will feature the option of a delicious Cheesy Shrimp & Grits or Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole while 2pm departures will be served the popular BBQ meal.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion
Jul 17 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ALONG SIDE THE BEAUTIFUL NANTAHALA RIVER ON OUR NANTAHALA GORGE EXCURSION! DEPARTING FROM BRYSON CITY, THIS 4½ HOUR ROUNDTRIP EXCURSION CARRIES YOU 44 MILES TO THE NANTAHALA GORGE AND BACK AGAIN ARRIVING AT OUR BRYSON CITY DEPOT.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Onboard dining is available in First Class Seating and selecting from our  First Class Dinning menu options OR you can pre-purchase a box lunch option to make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing!

Itinerary

30m before departure Boarding begins at Bryson City Depot
See schedule for departure time Depart Bryson City, NC
1h 45m Reach top of the line
2h 00m Begin return
2h 30m—3h 30m Layover
3h 30m Depart Layover
4h 30m Arrive at Bryson City Depot
Time from Departure Activity
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience
Jul 18 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

“Shine and Dine” on the railway! We cordially invite you to hop on board The Carolina Shine, GSMR’s All-Adult First Class Moonshine Car! We will be proudly serving hand crafted, triple-distilled, craft moonshine. Some of the smoothest tasting moonshine in the Carolinas! Offered on the Nantahala Gorge excursion, this shine and dine experience begins in a renovated First Class train fleet car, The Carolina Shine. The interior features copper lined walls filled with the history of moonshining in North Carolina. Learn about the proud tradition that the Appalachians established when bootlegging was an acceptable way of life and local home brews were the best in town. Read about Swain County’s very own Major Redmond, the most famous mountain moonshine outlaw of the 19th century. Once your appetite for knowledge is satisfied, enjoy sample tastings of flavors like Apple Pie, Blackberry, Blueberry, Cherry, Peach, and Strawberry moonshine. If the samples are not enough, there will be plenty of Moonshine infused cocktails like Copper Cola or Moonshiner’s Mimosa available for purchase. GSMR is excited to feature multiple craft NC based distilleries to serve our guests only the best! Each jar is handcrafted and authentically infused with real fruit, the way moonshine was meant to be made. Passengers will also enjoy a full service All-Adult First Class ride with an attendant and our popular Cajun seasoned Pulled Pork BBQ with Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce cooked in our special spices and slow roasted to perfection! During the month of October, 9am departures will feature the option of a delicious Cheesy Shrimp & Grits or Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole while 2pm departures will be served the popular BBQ meal.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion
Jul 18 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ALONG SIDE THE BEAUTIFUL NANTAHALA RIVER ON OUR NANTAHALA GORGE EXCURSION! DEPARTING FROM BRYSON CITY, THIS 4½ HOUR ROUNDTRIP EXCURSION CARRIES YOU 44 MILES TO THE NANTAHALA GORGE AND BACK AGAIN ARRIVING AT OUR BRYSON CITY DEPOT.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Onboard dining is available in First Class Seating and selecting from our  First Class Dinning menu options OR you can pre-purchase a box lunch option to make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing!

Itinerary

30m before departure Boarding begins at Bryson City Depot
See schedule for departure time Depart Bryson City, NC
1h 45m Reach top of the line
2h 00m Begin return
2h 30m—3h 30m Layover
3h 30m Depart Layover
4h 30m Arrive at Bryson City Depot
Time from Departure Activity
LEGO Builders Club
Jul 18 @ 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Pack Memorial Library

Come down the Pack Memorial Library and play with LEGOs!
Show off your building skills and make new friends with other LEGO maniacs.

Please leave your personal LEGOs at home, because we’ve got plenty.

School Age – (grades K-5)
Crisp Whites Wine Class at Posana
Jul 18 @ 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Posana
Explore regions such as Chile and Greece that produce vibrant, cool, and invigorating white wines that are perfect for summer. Advanced Sommelier Cara De Lavallade will explain how to identify grape varieties and discuss how the influence of acidity, alcohol, body, and sweetness play into the final product. Participants will receive six 2-ounce wine pours accompanied by cured meats and cheeses.
Wednesday, July 19, 2023
National Hot Dog Day at Farm Burger
Jul 19 all-day
Farm Burger

Farm Burger is excited to celebrate National Hot Dog Day with the Asheville community by serving up $5 Spicy Cheddarwurst Dogs all day long! The recently added hot dog is a jalapeño cheddarwurst from The Spotted Trotter, complete with jalapeño mustard, chili ketchup, bacon and spicy garlic pickles. Guests can enjoy the spicy hot dog with any combination of Farm Burger’s three new sides—andouille corn pups with Calabrian chili and strawberry ketchup, deviled eggs with salami, pepperonata and parmesan crisps, or Greek feta fries.

Fundraising for the Renovation of Brevard’s Ecusta Field
Jul 19 @ 9:00 am
online

Funds for Fields: Youth Wellness Initiative

 

Pisgah Health Foundation is raising funds for renovations to the Ecusta Field, which is currently used by area athletes and community members and is in dire need of upgrades. The upgraded facility will allow for the expansion of youth athletic programs as well as open the field up for more events and recreational activities for everyone in Transylvania County.

 

With your donations and support, you can positively impact the lives of young athletes now! Soccer and other sports are integral in youth development, fostering physical, mental, and emotional growth. Additionally, outdoor recreational facilities are vital to our community’s wellbeing, especially since the pandemic led to higher levels of anxiety, depression, and stress as a result of decreased physical activity.

 

Along with others in our community, we hope you will join us in raising funds to renovate this field for all to enjoy in Brevard.