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Each month, we’ll try a new activity that the whole family can enjoy. Activities are geared for people ages 5+ All children must be accompanied by an adult. Advance registration at AVLREC.com is required.
What better way to spend an evening than fishing? This is a introductory program to teach some basic fishing skills. Fishing poles and bait will be provided. Class size is limited due to equipment. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Thanks to NCWRC for providing a fishing license waiver for participants over age 16 to learn how to fish.
Asheville Amadeus Festival Kickoff + Beer Release
May 11 @ 5:30 pm
Cursus Kĕmē
Raise a glass and join the Asheville Symphony in celebrating the long-awaited return of the Asheville Amadeus Festival. We are kicking off the festival in style at Cursus Kĕmē with the release of an exclusive brew — Das Horner Bier. Das Horner Bier has a special connection to our festival’s namesake, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart; a known favorite of his, the beer-loving composer even mentions this beer in a work from 1782! This light and dry oat-based brew has a slightly sweet, citrusy taste with a hint of spice and malt — perfect easy drinking for an early-summer Mozart festival. Join us as we launch the festival with a glass of Das Horner Bier and a snack from a local food truck — cheers to ten glorious days of Amadeus festivities!
WELCOME BACK TO ASHEVILLE AMADEUS
The festival began in 2015 as a week-long event, and in 2017 and 2019 was expanded to a grand 10-day festival bringing together some of Asheville’s most talented musicians, artists, brewers and entertainers for a schedule of performances, education programs, collaborations and social events. Headlining artists have included Emanuel Ax, Midori, Warren Haynes and Garrick Ohlsson.
Building upon the success of our rock-themed Festival in 2019, the 2023 Festival moves in another exciting new direction, this year celebrating all things Americana with theater, art, music, culinary arts, and more. Featuring banjo superstar Béla Fleck as our Festival Headliner, Kishi Bashi as our Festival Opener, and 25+ partner organizations offering 40+ events throughout this extraordinary ten-day Festival, this is the most ambitious Amadeus in Asheville Symphony history!
Not Rocket Science Trivia at Highland Brewing Downtown
May 11 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Highland Brewing Downtown
Trivia, Singo, tailgate games, and more! Our games are sure to challenge you, but c’mon… it’s not rocket science!
Amphitheater Concert Series: Fancy and the Gentlemen
May 11 @ 6:30 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center
Based out of Asheville, NC, Fancy and the Gentlemen brings an eclectic mix of honky tonk, blues, southern gothic, rock, and classical roots to this americana band. Sensitive and rich harmonies weave through the tapestry of original compositions and carefully curated covers that celebrate the roots of American southern music. Fancy Marie, Katie Leigh, and Craig Kellberg enjoy performing as a full groove-infused band, while staying true to the core that is the artistry that is the songwriting trio.
Spring 2023 Amphitheater Series $45.00
An eclectic mix of music in TFAC’s popular Peterson Amphitheater awaits you this spring! From folk-rock to alternative country to bluegrass to jazz swing, TFAC’s lineup of 90-minute, outdoor concerts will fill the air with music and have you singing & dancing.
Smilo and the Ghost – April 27
Fancy and the Gentlemen – May 11
Darren Nicholson Band – May 18
Christian Lopez and Band – May 25
Queen Bee and the Honeylovers – June 1
All concerts begin at 6:30 PM. Beverages will be available for purchase.
THE MICHAEL RABINOWITZ JAZZ QUARTET
May 11 @ 7:30 pm
White Horse Black Mountain
Whether blowing bebop over a Mingus tune or freely improvising with Anthony Braxton, Michael Rabinowitz’s contributions have changed the conception of what the bassoon can do. Since graduating with a BFA in music performance from SUNY at Purchase in the late seventies Michael’s improvisatory skills opened the door for the bassoon to enter a variety of musical environments not traditionally associated with the instrument.
He has recorded with Ira Sullivan, Red Rodney, Wynton Marsalis, John Hicks, Dave Douglas, Chris Potter and Joe Lovano. His festival appearances include Chicago, Montreal, Berlin, Tri-city, Tanglewood, San Francisco and Hollywood Bowl. Michael is a founding member of The Charles Mingus Orchestra which can be heard regularly at the Jazz Standard in NYC. His quartet Bassoon and the Wild has performed at the The Vanderbilt Planetarium, Frick Museum, JVC Jazz Festival, , Penn State, Kavehaz and other venues in NYC. Ocean Eyes is Michael’s 5th CD and documents the development of his quartet with mostly original compositions. The Buffet Group USA has been Michael’s sponsor for the past fifteen years and has supported his participation in performances and master classes at the IDRS most notably the Jazz at June Festival in Oklahoma with oboist Paul McCandless
Michael Rabinowitz is joined by the three of the top jazz musicians in western North Carolina; Michael Jefry Stevens, Zack Page, and Rick Dilling. It promises to be a rare opportunity to hear great world-class jazz music without traveling to New York or Chicago.
The free, definitive resource for finding local food and farms also features farm stories and recipes.
The 2023 Local Food Guide, ASAP’s annual free publication for finding local food and farms, hits newsstands this week. This definitive resource lists hundreds of Appalachian Grown certified farms, farmers markets, restaurants, groceries, travel destinations, and more throughout Western North Carolina and surrounding counties in Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. A digital version of the print Guide may be viewed at asapconnections.org/guide.
In addition to the listing content, the 2023 edition features stories that highlight the variety of farming across the region. Jake Puckett, of Crow Fly Farms in Marion, NC, details his passion for holistic animal management. Malcolm Banks, of Yellow Mountain Gardens in Franklin, NC, describes his mission to teach his neighbors—and the world—to grow their own food. Gwen and Jay Englebach, of Black Trumpet Farm in Leicester, NC, talk about building a business and customer relationships. Rounding out the issue are seasonal recipes from chefs at Cultura, Little Chango, The Montford, and Red Fiddle Vittles.
Find Local Food Guide copies at farmers markets, visitors centers, libraries, community centers, groceries, restaurants, and other partner businesses throughout the region. They are also available to pick up in the lobby of ASAP’s office in Asheville at 306 W. Haywood St., Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact ASAP if you need help locating a copy in your area.
In addition to the print Guide, ASAP maintains the online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org. This database, with more than 1,400 listings, is updated throughout the year and is searchable by products, locations, activities, and more.
The 2023 Local Food Guide is made possible in part with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Agricultural Marketing Service and Beginning Farmer Rancher Development Fund, as well as the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina and Asheville Regional Airport.
NOC Paddling School
May 12 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
May 12 all-day
various locations
NEW TRIPS FOR 2023!
Paddling on the rivers in the western part of the US offers a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience that can’t be duplicated or found on our Southeast Rivers. The beautiful western landscape boasts towering cliffs, deep red canyons, and breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe at every turn. If you’ve experienced our home rivers, these should be the next in your river journey!
Experience adventure on the Green River through Lodore Canyon and Dinosaur National Monument! Paddle thrilling rapids, spot amazing wildlife, explore billion-year-old cliffs and geologic features, hike to waterfalls, and camp in lush sites. Choose from a variety of trip options, including a women’s-only retreat!
Paddle through untouched wilderness on the Yampa River, one of the last free-flowing rivers in the Colorado River Basin. Explore archeological treasures, hike riverside, and enjoy breathtaking views. Choose between 4 or 5-day family-friendly trips or an adults-only 4-day adventure. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience thrilling rapids and diverse wildlife on one of the most coveted rafting trips in the nation!
With no more paddling permits available for 2023, we still have rafting and kayaking spots left for the ultimate adventure through the Grand Canyon! Breathtaking views and thrilling rapids await you. Camp under the stars, hike to waterfalls and relax on pristine sandy beaches. This trip is perfect for both first-time and experienced rafters and kayakers, and offers a unique experience in the backcountry!
No need to shake off your jammies! Take the morning off and join friends for games, prizes, and breakfast at this pajama party.
Little Shredders at Richmond Hill Park
May 12 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Richmond Hill Park
Little Shredders
Come hit the trails and check out the beginner bike skills course while making new friends. This is a a social meet up for our littlest riders who are ready to take on trails and try basic obstacles while having fun with other young bikers. A great chance for grownups to meet other families with little shredders. Participants should be comfortable riding a balance or pedal bike. (Check out Tykes on Bikes for our learn to ride program) Participants should bring their own bike/helmet fit for the rider. A limited number of Strider balance bikes and helmets are available for use during program with advance notice.
Mothers Day Lunch
May 12 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Burton Street Community Center
Celebrate all mothers and mother figures a little early with a delicious meal.
Grove Street Community Center’s Breakfast in Bed Mother’s Day Brunch
May 12 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Grove Street Community Center
All mother and mother figures – please join us for an early Mother’s Day meal celebrating how wonderful all of you are! Call 828-254-1942 for more information.
Free
Brews + Bears Summer Event Series
May 12 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
WNC Nature Center
Enjoy the WNC Nature Center in the evening with a beer or cider in hand!
LAZOOM Tours: BAND AND BEER TOUR
May 12 @ 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**
Celebrity Roast of Dean Trakas
May 12 @ 6:00 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center
Celebrity Roast of Dean Trakas with host Pam Stone
Friday, May 12
Cocktail hour at 6:00 pm
Show begins at 7:00 pm
Come support the Tryon History Museum while enjoying an evening of fun and laughter. The evening will kick off at 6 pm with hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar before the show. Don’t miss out on this amazing night.
Asheville City Soccer Club Men v Port City FC
May 12 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Greenwood Field
TUMOKOHRS and B.J. LEIDERMAN
May 12 @ 8:00 pm
White Horse Black Mountain
Tumo Kohrs, is Mark Tuomenoksa and Sarah Kohrs, two extraordinarily talented musicians whose synergy and skills provide a sophisticated sound that exponentially exceeds what you would expect from any duo. While they principally perform on electric keyboards, they both are multi-instrumentalists and their repertoire includes the entire saxophone family as well as guitars and flute. While their playing skills are impressive, what separates them from the pack are the intimate original compositions of Kohrs combined with the powerfully evocative arrangements of Tuomenoksa. Sarah is a master of words, expressing nuanced emotions of love as well as the blunt realities of the pain that loving entails.
There are no pulled punches in Sarah Kohrs. And while her words spin the narrative, Mark’s arrangements bring the songs to life, alternately hugging and caressing, or forcefully spitting and biting, to magnify and amplify the experience. With Tumo Kohrs you don’t just tap your fingers. You cry, you laugh, you sit in stunned silence, or you jump out of your seat yelling, “Wow!” This is emotional hardball in the big leagues. You can’t hide; you’re going to feel it.
One of the beautiful things about Tumo Kohrs is the ease with which they switch gears – veering from sad to happy, serious to irreverent – and cross genres, all the while maintaining a delightful easy banter with the audience. In the end you realize that you’ve just ridden a roller coaster through many of life’s most powerful forces – love, trust, friendship, relationships – and you’re somehow better for the journey.
Sarah Kohrs and Mark Tuomenoksa aren’t following anyone, they are blazing a new trail forged entirely out of their indomitable spirits. And they are just getting started.
——
BJ Leiderman isn’t following anyone either. He blazed his trail in the world of music and public radio decades ago.
For over 40 years, award-winning composer BJ Leiderman has enjoyed a multifaceted career as composer, lyricist, producer, copywriter and voice talent.
He is best known as composer of the Public Radio themes for Morning Edition, Weekend Edition, Car Talk’s ‘Stump The Chumps’ theme, NPR Science Friday, Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me! and Marketplace.
Leiderman has scored TV and radio commercials for clients including Coca-Cola, ExxonMobil, US Air, Corporation For Public Broadcasting, US Environmental Protection Agency, US Chamber of Commerce, General Mills and General Electric, Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, The Annenberg/CPB Project and Christian Broadcasting Network
The free, definitive resource for finding local food and farms also features farm stories and recipes.
The 2023 Local Food Guide, ASAP’s annual free publication for finding local food and farms, hits newsstands this week. This definitive resource lists hundreds of Appalachian Grown certified farms, farmers markets, restaurants, groceries, travel destinations, and more throughout Western North Carolina and surrounding counties in Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. A digital version of the print Guide may be viewed at asapconnections.org/guide.
In addition to the listing content, the 2023 edition features stories that highlight the variety of farming across the region. Jake Puckett, of Crow Fly Farms in Marion, NC, details his passion for holistic animal management. Malcolm Banks, of Yellow Mountain Gardens in Franklin, NC, describes his mission to teach his neighbors—and the world—to grow their own food. Gwen and Jay Englebach, of Black Trumpet Farm in Leicester, NC, talk about building a business and customer relationships. Rounding out the issue are seasonal recipes from chefs at Cultura, Little Chango, The Montford, and Red Fiddle Vittles.
Find Local Food Guide copies at farmers markets, visitors centers, libraries, community centers, groceries, restaurants, and other partner businesses throughout the region. They are also available to pick up in the lobby of ASAP’s office in Asheville at 306 W. Haywood St., Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact ASAP if you need help locating a copy in your area.
In addition to the print Guide, ASAP maintains the online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org. This database, with more than 1,400 listings, is updated throughout the year and is searchable by products, locations, activities, and more.
The 2023 Local Food Guide is made possible in part with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Agricultural Marketing Service and Beginning Farmer Rancher Development Fund, as well as the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina and Asheville Regional Airport.
NOC Paddling School
May 13 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
May 13 all-day
various locations
NEW TRIPS FOR 2023!
Paddling on the rivers in the western part of the US offers a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience that can’t be duplicated or found on our Southeast Rivers. The beautiful western landscape boasts towering cliffs, deep red canyons, and breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe at every turn. If you’ve experienced our home rivers, these should be the next in your river journey!
Experience adventure on the Green River through Lodore Canyon and Dinosaur National Monument! Paddle thrilling rapids, spot amazing wildlife, explore billion-year-old cliffs and geologic features, hike to waterfalls, and camp in lush sites. Choose from a variety of trip options, including a women’s-only retreat!
Paddle through untouched wilderness on the Yampa River, one of the last free-flowing rivers in the Colorado River Basin. Explore archeological treasures, hike riverside, and enjoy breathtaking views. Choose between 4 or 5-day family-friendly trips or an adults-only 4-day adventure. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience thrilling rapids and diverse wildlife on one of the most coveted rafting trips in the nation!
With no more paddling permits available for 2023, we still have rafting and kayaking spots left for the ultimate adventure through the Grand Canyon! Breathtaking views and thrilling rapids await you. Camp under the stars, hike to waterfalls and relax on pristine sandy beaches. This trip is perfect for both first-time and experienced rafters and kayakers, and offers a unique experience in the backcountry!
An endurance running event like none other, the third annual Jump Off Rock Half Marathon presented by Hunter Subaru, will be one of the fastest half marathon races in the south and will run “downhill to downtown.”
The point-to-point, half marathon begins at Jump off Rock, a national landmark and the Town of Laurel Park’s highest peak, and finishes in the heart of downtown Hendersonville on Main Street. This gently downhill and scenic 13.1 mile course is not only fast, it also has breathtaking views. Half Marathoners will wind their way downhill through the beautiful back-roads of Laurel Park then on historic city streets and around Hendersonville’s Osceola Lake before heading into downtown Hendersonville. The point-to-point race and the scenic course are sure to bring PRs and mountain memories to last a lifetime.
10k runners will start their race at the base of the Town of Laurel Park at the YMCA of Hendersonville. They will join in on the half marathon route at about the half-way point with half marathoners. The 10k route is moderately flat with a couple gentle rollers. The 10k runners will run on historic city streets, around the Hendersonville’s Osceola Lake and back to downtown Hendersonville.
Both races will finish at the same location in Historic Downtown Hendersonville on Main Street.
Black Mountain Pickleball
May 13 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Cragmont Assembly Lassiter Family Center (Gym)
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
9:00 – Noon
Lower Tennis Courts
Cost for play is $2.00.
Black Mountain Pickleball is an informal group, not a membership-based club, that exists to promote Pickleball in the Town of Black Mountain and the greater Swannanoa Valley. Benefits include a sense of community, organized play, and much more.
Free water safety family swim event w/ YWCA
May 13 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
YWCA Asheville
Come for a swim lesson and stay for family swim time and snacks in our warm indoor pool and Multipurpose room. Space for this event is limited and priority is given to families who qualify for swim lesson scholarships. Apply for swim scholarships here.
Sip + Shop Mother’s Day Pop-Up
May 13 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
The Omni Grove Park Inn
Whether you’re looking for a last-minute gift for mom or somewhere to celebrate the occasion, shop Cloth’s Mother’s Day Sale at The Omni Grove Park Inn’s “Sip & Shop” Pop-Up. Enjoy a complimentary wine tasting and up to 50% off multi-season men’s and women’s apparel and merchandise. The sale is from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, May 13 and Sunday, May 14 in the Presidents Lounge of the Sammons Wing. Featured cocktails and drinks will be available for purchase at the bar.
Gatherings of Artists + Writers Coffee
May 13 @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center
TFAC invites all artists: painters, sculptors, writers, performers & more — to a casual weekly drop-in gathering on Saturday mornings at 9 AM to share your works in progress, alert others, and chat about art and what’s happening in your community.
The first weekly Coffee is Saturday, August 20 at 9 am.
No RSVP needed, just drop by!
Free parking available on Melrose Avenue, behind and alongside TFAC.
Bake Sale for Ukraine
May 13 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Pink Dog Creative
Bake Sale to benefit Ukraine. Variety of baked goods including Ukrainian specialties. All sales will go to Ukraine for humanitarian aid via the UNWLA Humanitarian Aid Fund. The UNWLA is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
ASHEVILLE AMADEUS 2023 Beer Brunch
May 13 @ 12:00 pm
Cursus Kĕmē
Head to the banks of the Swannanoa River, just past Biltmore Village, for an intimate brunch experience. Cursus Kĕmē, the brewery partner for the Asheville Amadeus Festival, has teamed up with local restaurant The Blackbird to serve up a delicious three-course menu created by Executive Chef Michael Reppert. Each course will be thoughtfully paired with a Cursus Kĕmē brew — including the official beer of the festival, Das Horner Bier. It’s an exclusive chance to treat yourself to a beer brunch that you won’t soon forget. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to enjoy a truly special culinary event!
LAZOOM Tours: BAND AND BEER TOUR
May 13 @ 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**
Mother’s Day Wine Pairing with Plēb Urban Winery
May 13 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Plēb Urban Winery
NC Wine Academy will partner with Plēb Urban Winery to offer appetizers plus five food courses paired with six wines, including wines from Plēb as well as vintages from vintners in other regions.
ASHEVILLE AMADEUS: ALT ASO featuring Kishi Bashi
May 13 @ 7:00 pm
Salvage Station
Darko Butorac, conductor
Kishi Bashi,soloist
We head for the banks of the French Broad River to perform on Salvage Station’s massive outdoor stage. Featuring Kishi Bashi — a folk-infused, cinema-inspired artist known the world over for his cross-genre and multi- disciplinary approach to music-making — this ALT ASO performance doubles as the festival opener for Asheville Amadeus 2023. The final ALT concert of the year will feature representation from Kishi Bashi’s expansive catalog, including orchestrated versions of “I am the Antichrist to You,” “Can’t Let Go Juno,” and “Manchester,” alongside American symphonic favorites specially curated by Maestro Darko Butorac and Kishi Bashi himself!
