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, January 31, 2026
Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer
Jan 31 @ 6:30 pm
Central United Methodist Church of Asheville

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Asheville. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Hans Zimmer at Central United Methodist Church of Asheville under the gentle glow of candlelight.

General Info
Venue: Central United Methodist Church of Asheville
Dates and times: select your dates/times directly in the ticket selector
Duration: 60 minutes. Doors open 45 minutes before the show and close 5 minutes prior to the start. Late arrivals will not be permitted
Age requirement: 8 years old or older. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Accessibility: ADA compliant
View the FAQs for this event here
Seating is assigned on a first come first served basis in each zone
If you would like to book a private concert or buy regular tickets for a large group (+30 people), click here
Check out all the Candlelight concerts in Asheville
To treat your friends and family to a Candlelight gift card, click here

Tentative Program

Time – Inception
This Land – The Lion King
Zooster’s Breakout – Madagascar
Supermarine – Dunkirk
Honor – The Pacific
A Dark Knight – The Dark Knight
Wonder Woman Suite
Gladiator Suite
Cornfield Chase – Interstellar
Dune Suite
Discombobulate – Sherlock Holmes
Pirates of the Caribbean Suite

Performers

String Quartet – Listeso

Sunday, February 1, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 1 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Monday, February 2, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 2 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 3 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 4 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Thursday, February 5, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 5 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Friday, February 6, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 6 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Special Event: LP & The Vinyl – From Blues to Beatles to Bowie
Feb 6 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Wortham Presents

Special Event: LP & The Vinyl – From Blues to Beatles to Bowie

A Benefit for Arts for All Kids

Fri, Feb 6 • 7 pm

Sit center stage and step into the spotlight. Join us on the Diana Wortham Theatre stage for an unforgettable evening where every note played helps open doors to the arts for WNC students.

Enjoy intimate on-stage seating, light bites and drinks, a silent auction, and a soul-stirring performance by LP & the Vinyl. Order your tickets today—seating is limited.

Arts for All Kids opens doors to the performing arts for students across Western North Carolina through scholarships and creative opportunities—empowering students to explore, imagine, and connect both on stage and beyond.

Special Event: LP & The Vinyl – From Blues to Beatles to Bowie
Feb 6 @ 7:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

A Benefit for Arts for All Kids

Fri, Feb 6 • 7 pm

Sit center stage and step into the spotlight. Join us on the Diana Wortham Theatre stage for an unforgettable evening where every note played helps open doors to the arts for WNC students.

Enjoy intimate on-stage seating, light bites and drinks, a silent auction, and a soul-stirring performance by LP & the Vinyl. Order your tickets today—seating is limited.

Arts for All Kids opens doors to the performing arts for students across Western North Carolina through scholarships and creative opportunities—empowering students to explore, imagine, and connect both on stage and beyond.

Saturday, February 7, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 7 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

The Electric Light Orchestra Featuring EVIL WOMEN – The American ELO
Feb 7 @ 8:00 pm
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

This production includes unique video content for each song as the fusion of Beatlesque-Pop and Classical arrangements performed by EVIL WOMAN’s 12 musicians, including a live string section, is brought to life.

The attention to detail on vocal harmonies and string arrangements is astonishingly similar to all of ELO’s original recordings.

Mr. Blue Sky, Telephone Line, Don’t Bring Me Down, Livin’ Thing, Evil Woman and Roll Over Beethoven are among a list of over 20 instantly recognizable chart-topping hit songs.

Sunday, February 8, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 8 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

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.

Monday, February 9, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 9 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 10 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Dean Z The Ultimate Elvis Tribute
Feb 10 @ 7:00 pm
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

When Dean was 3, the documentary “This Is Elvis” was being broadcast on television. He immediately cleared the coffee table, jumped on top of it and started trying to imitate Presley’s every move. Not long after, Dean’s mother made his first Elvis jump suit, and he was on his way.”The first song I sang on stage was ‘Jailhouse Rock.’ Every time I shook the audience would scream, and I’ve been shaking ever since.” Z said.

Billy Strings
Feb 10 @ 7:30 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Billy Strings is a force to be reckoned with in the world of American roots music. Born William Lee Apostol, this prodigious guitarist, singer, and songwriter has captivated audiences across the globe with his virtuosic playing, heartfelt lyrics, and boundless energy on stage. With a sound that seamlessly blends traditional bluegrass, folk, country, and metal influences, Billy Strings has become a leading figure in the modern roots music revival. Hailing from the musical hotbed of Michigan, Billy Strings discovered his passion for music at a young age.

This is a four day music festival at Harrrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.

Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 11 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Billy Strings
Feb 11 @ 7:30 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Billy Strings is a force to be reckoned with in the world of American roots music. Born William Lee Apostol, this prodigious guitarist, singer, and songwriter has captivated audiences across the globe with his virtuosic playing, heartfelt lyrics, and boundless energy on stage. With a sound that seamlessly blends traditional bluegrass, folk, country, and metal influences, Billy Strings has become a leading figure in the modern roots music revival. Hailing from the musical hotbed of Michigan, Billy Strings discovered his passion for music at a young age.

This is a four day music festival at Harrrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.

Thursday, February 12, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 12 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

An Evening With David Foster & Katharine McPhee
Feb 12 @ 7:30 pm
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium
DAVID FOSTER is one of the most illustrious composers of our time. With 16 Grammy Awards, including three for Producer of the Year, an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe, and Three Oscar nominations for “Best Original Songs,” Foster has earned a reputation as a keen spotter of new talent, playing a key role in the discovery and career launches of Celine Dion, Josh Groban, and Michael Bublé.
Few other individuals can claim to have their fingerprints on more major moments in all of popular music than DAVID FOSTER. He has created hit songs for a diverse array of artists including Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Andrea Bocelli, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, Chicago, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind Fire, Tony Braxton, Natalie Cole, Michael Bolton, Seal, Chaka Khan, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Hall Oates, Brandy, ’N Sync, Boz Scaggs, and Gloria Estefan.
Friday, February 13, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 13 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Billy Strings
Feb 13 @ 7:30 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Billy Strings is a force to be reckoned with in the world of American roots music. Born William Lee Apostol, this prodigious guitarist, singer, and songwriter has captivated audiences across the globe with his virtuosic playing, heartfelt lyrics, and boundless energy on stage. With a sound that seamlessly blends traditional bluegrass, folk, country, and metal influences, Billy Strings has become a leading figure in the modern roots music revival. Hailing from the musical hotbed of Michigan, Billy Strings discovered his passion for music at a young age.

This is a four day music festival at Harrrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.

Saturday, February 14, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 14 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Billy Strings
Feb 14 @ 7:30 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Billy Strings is a force to be reckoned with in the world of American roots music. Born William Lee Apostol, this prodigious guitarist, singer, and songwriter has captivated audiences across the globe with his virtuosic playing, heartfelt lyrics, and boundless energy on stage. With a sound that seamlessly blends traditional bluegrass, folk, country, and metal influences, Billy Strings has become a leading figure in the modern roots music revival. Hailing from the musical hotbed of Michigan, Billy Strings discovered his passion for music at a young age.

This is a four day music festival at Harrrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.

Solas
Feb 14 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Wortham Presents Solas

Sat, Feb 14 • 8 pm

Hailed by The Boston Globe as “the finest Celtic ensemble this country has ever produced,” Solas celebrates 30 years of boundary-pushing Irish music. With fiery instrumentals, rich vocals, and adventurous musicality, their high-energy performance promises a powerful celebration of Irish music—past, present, and future.

“An Irish traditional band bearing all the marks of greatness” —The Wall Street Journal

Solas
Feb 14 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Sat, Feb 14 • 8 pm

Hailed by The Boston Globe as “the finest Celtic ensemble this country has ever produced,” Solas celebrates 30 years of boundary-pushing Irish music. With fiery instrumentals, rich vocals, and adventurous musicality, their high-energy performance promises a powerful celebration of Irish music—past, present, and future.

“An Irish traditional band bearing all the marks of greatness” —The Wall Street Journal

Spotlight on Solas:

Formed in New York City in 1995 by a powerhouse lineup of Irish-American talent
Released twelve acclaimed albums blending Irish tradition with folk, bluegrass, and Americana
Concept album Shamrock City explores immigrant life in early 1900s Montana
Features founding members Seamus Egan, Winifred Horan, and John Williams
The concert will feature acclaimed flute player and singer Nuala Kennedy, touted as “spellbinding” and “a delight” by The Irish Times

Sunday, February 15, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 15 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Monday, February 16, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 16 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Trolls: A Field Study
Feb 17 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.