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.

Friday, June 23, 2023
Music on Main
Jun 23 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Downtown Hendersonville

The Friday Night Music series will present the familiar 50’s and 60’s
classic rock and beach music from a host of different bands. Food vendors like Babbles Ice
Cream, Blue Ridge Hospitality and Eggs Up Grill will provide a some spice. The Carolina
Mountain Car Club will participate as in years past.

Friday Night Concerts
Super 60’s June 9
Gotcha Groove June 16
It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere June 23
Marsha Morgan June 30
Shades of Gray July 7
Thomas Brown July 14
Emporium July 21
Johnnie Blackwell Band July 28
Rock and Roll Reunion August 4
208 Army Band August 11
Night Moves Band August 18

Hello, Daddy
Jun 23 @ 7:30 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

Fresh off her performance as the title role in Hedwig and the Angry Inch, which Broadway World said was, “Simply Outstanding,” and star turn in The Legend of Georgia McBride, Delighted Tobehere is out to prove she is the ultimate Broadway baby. Delighted is celebrating two decades of drag, and after 20 years of delighting audiences worldwide – and on America’s Got Talent – she is ready for her big break on Broadway!

In Hello, Daddy!, Delighted is pulling out all the stops to prove she has what it takes and will even do WHATEVER it takes to get the role – any role. Even if that means showing you some of her special skills. *wink wink* She won’t quit until she is a star…on Broadway! Hello, Daddy! will feature songs from Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Wicked, La Cage Aux Folles, and more! All of your favorite Broadway hits combined with Delighted’s signature talent, wit, and charm, makes this a show you will not want to miss! Get your tickets today! You’ll be DELIGHTED you did!

Approximate Run Time: 90 minutes
Rating: PG-13 due to adult content

Saturday, June 24, 2023
Green Drinks online
Jun 24 all-day
online

Green Drinks lives on every Saturday as The Free & Open University of Eco-Sustainability on Facebook

Have a Gardening Question? Contact the Helpline! 2023 Schedule
Jun 24 all-day
Extension Office

Extension Master GardenerSM volunteers will be staffing the Helpline as indicated in the schedule below. You may send an email or leave a voicemail at any time and an Extension Master Gardener volunteer will respond during Garden Helpline hours. When emailing, please include a photo if it helps describe your garden question. Soil test kits can be picked up at the Extension office, 24/7. The kits are located in a box outside the front door.

Three ways to contact the Garden Helpline
Call 828-255-5522
Email questions and photos to [email protected]
Visit the Extension Office at 49 Mt. Carmel Road during Helpline hours, listed below.

Garden Helpline Hours

March – (starts March 6)
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

April through September:
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Wednesday 12:00 Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

October – (ends October 26th) 
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

We are here to help and support you! Please contact us. We look forward to answering your gardening questions.

Help us keep our community cool: Support YWCA’s fundraiser
Jun 24 all-day
online

The YWCA recently learned that our aging HVAC system can no longer reliably heat and cool our building. This means more than discomfort for members and staff – we are required to maintain a consistent and healthy temperature in the building for the well-being and safety of the children in our childcare programs. We are asking for your help to address the immediate need for $60k to replace the first five of our 24 HVAC units and ensure that both of our Childcare programs can continue to provide accessible childcare to working families and the work of the YWCA can continue without disruption.

MANNA’s Outpace Hunger campaign
Jun 24 all-day
online

Let’s get you registered for Outpace Hunger!

Mountain Housing Opportunities Fundraising Challenge Announced: Dollar for Dollar match from Biltmore
Jun 24 all-day
online
$35,000 Fundraising Challenge Announced: Dollar for Dollar match from Biltmore

Mountain Housing Opportunities (MHO) is excited to announce a special philanthropic commitment from The Biltmore Company in honor of MHO’s 35th Anniversary: a $35,000 Matching Gift Challenge.

Beginning in June, Biltmore will match all donations made to MHO on a dollar-for-dollar basis, up to $35,000. This special matching gift will DOUBLE the impact of individual donations and will result in at least $70,000 raised to support MHO’s affordable housing programs and services.

“The need for affordable housing in our region has never been greater. We are excited to partner with Biltmore to bring greater awareness to this urgent need and inspire others to donate what they can.” said Scott Dedman, MHO’s President and Executive Director. “Philanthropic support from individuals and  business partners like Biltmore help to fuel MHO’s efforts to create more opportunities for residents of western North Carolina to find and keep affordable housing and to build generational wealth through more equitable paths to homeownership.”

Biltmore’s history of community engagement and philanthropy dates back to its founding nearly 130 years ago. “We continue the Vanderbilt tradition of giving back and by supporting our community’s economic growth,” shared Tim Rosebrock, Vice President of Compliance and Legal Services at Biltmore. “Biltmore’s philanthropy is a demonstration of our core values in action. We are honored to support Mountain Housing Opportunities’ work to create and preserve affordable housing for the people who call this region home. And we hope the opportunity to have your donation matched encourages more of our neighbors to pitch in with their own contributions, as well.”

All donations received from individuals, including gifts in support of MHO’s upcoming 35th Anniversary Celebration, are eligible to receive a 100% match from Biltmore, up to $35,000. This includes gifts from family foundations and donor advised funds. Gifts from businesses are not eligible for the match.

“We are grateful for this generous and timely contribution from Biltmore in honor of MHO’s 35 years in business,” said Allison Rollison, Director of Philanthropy at MHO. “Biltmore’s reputation for excellence, service, and stewardship is unparalleled. We are honored to be aligned with a company that centers the dignity and well-being of the people of western North Carolina. This $35,000 match will catalyze generosity from others in our community who also believe that everyone – no matter their income—deserves a safe, stable, affordable place to call home.”

Need Help With Water Bills? New Water Assistance Program Could Offer Help.
Jun 24 all-day
online

If you’re behind on your water bill or afraid your water might get cut off, a new resource might be able to help you. On Jan. 4, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners approved more than $450,000 in federal funding for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). The initiative is aimed at preventing water disconnections and helping reconnect drinking and wastewater services.

The LIHWAP will be administered by Buncombe County-based Eblen Charities. The nonprofit will make payments directly to utilities on behalf of qualifying households. The program is slated to run through Sept. 30, 2023 or until funds are exhausted.

Eligibility requirements

Households that currently receive Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Work First services, or those that received Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) services from Oct. 1, 2020-Sept. 30, 2021, are automatically eligible to receive this benefit if their water services have been cut off or are in danger of being cut off.

For additional eligibility information or to apply, please contact Eblen Charities at (828) 255-3066.

Pisgah Legal Together We Dream Giving Challenge
Jun 24 all-day
online

According to a study by Syracuse University, North Carolina ranks last in the country for people likely to have legal representation in their immigration cases. Here in Western North Carolina (WNC), nonprofit Pisgah Legal Services (PLS) provides most of the free civil legal aid for area immigrants and is working to raise $100,000 by July 1st to support this important work.

“Pisgah Legal Services provides life-changing – and sometimes life-saving – legal representation for immigrants and asylum seekers, and that help is scarce and very hard to come by,” says PLS Chief Development Officer Ally Wilson. “We only have three immigration attorneys to serve our entire 18-county region, and Pisgah Legal provides the majority of free legal aid for immigrants in WNC.”

She continued, “Thanks to generous supporters who have already come forward, we have raised $30,000 towards the $100,000 goal by July 1 for our Together We Dream Giving Challenge. We need additional charitable contributions to keep families together and educated about their rights, to secure legal immigration status and work authorizations and to stop the violence and abuse that many come to the United States to escape.”

Gifts made in the coming week will be matched! “A generous donor has stepped forward to help us build momentum to reach our goal,” says Wilson. “From now until Wednesday, June 21st, all gifts will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $5,000. Give today and your gift will have double the impact!”

Want to Help?

Giving online is fast, easy and secure at https://www.pisgahlegal.org/dream or contact Chief Development Officer Ally Wilson by phone 828-210-3444 or via email: [email protected].  Checks may be mailed to Pisgah Legal Services, P.O. Box 2276, Asheville, N.C.  28802

Preservation Grant
Jun 24 all-day
online w/ Preservation Society of Asheville & Buncombe County

The addition of preservation grants to our existing efforts in advocacy, technical support, preservation easements, and education, will allow us to reach a new and diverse audience.  This program will allow us to support both large and small projects from downtown Asheville to our rural and under-served communities.

Click here for the Grant Application

We look forward to helping with emergency stabilization projects and restorations of important places, to helping neighborhoods receive designations such as recognition on the National Register of Historic Places and to encouraging and supporting new and unique education and research opportunities.  We want to be surprised and humbled by the projects our community asks us to support!

As our city faces the inevitable challenges of growth, PSABC’s voice and reach must expand.  The important addition of this Preservation Grant Program comes in response to the needs of our community.

*Deadline to apply for the current grant round is Friday August 11th*

Preservation grants from $500 – $5000 will be offered to the public in three categories:

  1. Bricks-And-Mortar

Rehabilitation, restoration and repair of structures that are 50 years of age or older

Some examples: Windows and doors • Exterior painting • Porches • Roofs and gutters • Electrical and plumbing • Hardscaping • Foundation • Original exterior or interior details

  1. Public Education

Development of educational materials and programs that advance knowledge of our shared history

Some examples: Research and documentation • Oral histories • Installations specific to buildings, place history, and culture • Exhibitions • K–12 educational publications • Seminars and lectures • Documentary films

  1. Planning, Survey and Designation

Planning and design for building rehabilitation and restoration projects, historic resource surveys and local or national designations

Some examples: Historic building condition reports • Engineering and rehabilitation plans • Feasibility studies • Historic resource surveys • Updates of previous surveys • Local and national historic designations

Read about our past winners here!

Senior Programs with Asheville Parks + Rec.
Jun 24 all-day
Various Locations

3.1 WEB – WebTrac Activity Search (vermontsystems.com)

Social Seniors

Grove Street Community Center offers a variety of activities that include socializing and meeting new people, table games, trivia, cornhole, crafts, and more. We also offer an independent exercise area for your convenience. Come check us out, Monday -Friday 9:00am -5:00 pm. Please call 828-350-2062, for more information.

Grove Street Card Sharks

Card Sharks is the name, so bring your “A” Game!! This program offers a variety of card games such as Bid Whist, Spades, Tunk, and more. So bring a partner and come join in on the fun, Wednesday’s from 2:00pm-5:00pm. If you have any questions, please call 828-350-2062.

Senior Dining

Senior Congregate Dining is a year around program offered to Senior 60+ who are registered with Buncombe County’s Council on Aging Senior Meal Site. This program offers a variety of guest speakers, nutritious lunch, and a friendly social setting for participants. Offered Monday-Friday, 11:45AM-12:30PM. For more information please call 828-350-2062.

Billiards

Whether you are looking for a place to practice or have a friendly game our Billiards Room is open Monday- Friday 10:00am-5:00pm. There is no registration or fee required. Call the center for Saturday availability at 828-350-2062.

Exercise

For an Hour, come build some Power, with our gentle based chair exercise that is fun and upbeat. This program is offered every Tuesday from 10:00am-11:00am. All are welcome and this program is free of charge. If you have any questions call the center at 828-350-2062.

Be Active Live Longer

Come and workout at your convenience in our B.A.L.L. (Be Active Live Longer) area . This area offers a treadmill, weights, and bicycle. Call the center for more information. 828-350-2062

A Cappella Alive

If you love to sing and looking for a group that does, look no further. A Cappella Alive is a small non-profit chorus group that are looking for a few new members to join in as they bring joy to others by singing. If interested please feel free to stop by Senior Opportunity center Thursday’s from 6:00pm-9:00pm or contact us at (828) 350-2062.

Square Dancing

Circle 8 Square Dancing is a group that meets every Tuesday from 6:00pm-9:00pm. Come out and meet some new people and have a good time square dancing. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact (828) 350-2062.

Groove at the Grove

Looking for something to do on a Saturday afternoon? Come “Groove at the Grove” with us and enjoy 10 Tables of Games! Spades to Bid Whist, Uno to Phase 10, we have a table for you!!! Come meet new people and test your luck every 4th Saturday of the Month from 3pm-6pm. If you have any questions please contact Grove Street Community Center at (828)350-2062.

Pen to Paper Writing Group

Let’s share the stories of our lives. This event takes place every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month.  6/21, 7/5, 7/19, 8/2, 8/15
Work out for free at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center
Jun 24 all-day
Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Work out for free at Stephens-Lee Community Center
Jun 24 all-day
Stephens-Lee Community Center

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) recently renovated fitness centers at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers – and community members can enjoy use of cardio equipment, exercise machines, free weights, open gym time, and more through June 30, 2023. During this time, APR will waive membership and daily pass fees so more people can access the necessities for a regular fitness routine. Locals can sign up online or at either community center to receive a fitness center key fob that can be scanned at either location.

 

“Our team is committed to creating spaces in which everyone feels welcome,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “We are in the community building business. The gyms and fitness rooms at these two locations are filled with everything you’d expect from other top-notch fitness facilities and dedicated to body positivity and accessible wellness. By waiving the cost to use them for the first six months of the year, we hope more friends and neighbors will be able to connect with each other and maintain healthy lifestyles.”

Food Scraps Drop Off: Buncombe County Landfill
Jun 24 @ 8:00 am – 12:30 pm
Buncombe County Landfill – Convenience Center

Food Scraps Drop Off

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

 

Register for Food Scraps Drop Off

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

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

 

Locations

Buncombe County Landfill – Convenience Center

85 Panther Branch Road, Alexander

    • Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    • Saturday, 8 a.m. – 12:30 pm

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

749 Fairview Road, Asheville

    • Dawn – Dusk

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

30 Washington Carver Avenue, Asheville

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

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

942 Haywood Road, Asheville

    • Library open hours
Food Scraps Drop Off: Stephens-Lee Recreation Center
Jun 24 @ 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Stephens-Lee Recreation Center

Food Scraps Drop Off

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

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

 

Register for Food Scraps Drop Off

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

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

 

Locations

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

30 Washington Carver Avenue, Asheville

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

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

749 Fairview Road, Asheville

    • Dawn – Dusk

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

942 Haywood Road, Asheville

Library open hours

 

Buncombe County Landfill – Convenience Center85 Panther Branch Road, Alexander

        • Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
        • Saturday, 8 a.m. – 12:30 pm
Food Scraps Drop Off: West Asheville Library
Jun 24 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
West Asheville Library

Food Scraps Drop Off

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

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

 

Register for Food Scraps Drop Off

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

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

 

Locations

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

942 Haywood Road, Asheville

Library open hours

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

30 Washington Carver Avenue, Asheville

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

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

749 Fairview Road, Asheville

    • Dawn – Dusk

 

Buncombe County Landfill – Convenience Center85 Panther Branch Road, Alexander

        • Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
        • Saturday, 8 a.m. – 12:30 pm
Gatherings of Artists + Writers Coffee
Jun 24 @ 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.

Enka-Candler’s 1st Annual Midsummer Market
Jun 24 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Enka-Candler Tailgate Market

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Join us for our 1st Annual Midsummer Market on Saturday, June 24th from 11-5PM! This market will be chocked full of local art, food, body care, clothing, crafts and gifts. All in one place for easy shopping!
We’ve got food trucks, local artisans, crafters, teas, tumblers, pottery, kids’ activities and we’re excited for y’all to see the dynamite selection of products available!
Juneteenth Tour of Leah + the Rabbit at Swannanoa Library
Jun 24 @ 11:00 am
Swannanoa Library

A 30 minute piece of puppetry originally created by Mikayla Wilson in collaboration with the Vance Birthplace Historical Site staff for the Juneteenth program at the Vance Birthplace Historical Site, Leah & the Rabbit is making a journey throughout Buncombe Country in partnership with Buncombe County libraries and the Vance Birthplace Historical Site with the support of ArtsAVL and the Mountain History and Culture Group.

After its origin last Juneteenth at the Vance birthplace, Leah and the Rabbit has played as part of the City of Asheville’s Art in the Heart, the Asheville Fringe Festival, and the Asheville Amadeus Festival.  This June, with the support of the ArtsAVL Grassroots Grant, the show will tour across the county, bringing this powerful story to more audiences than ever.  Ms. Wilson says, “The show talks about the forgotten stories of the enslaved people owned by the Vance family. Leah Erwin is one of twenty-seven known enslaved people that were owned by and lived with the Vance family. Leah’s story is paired with the tales of Br’er Rabbit, a popular folk story character that was passed down by enslaved people but appropriated by white storytellers with racial bias. Many Black people were brought to Asheville for cheap or enslaved labor to support the tourist industry in the antebellum period. Now, Black people must compete with systems that favor the wealthy or privileged. This story is meant to question the people who are being removed from Asheville and who can afford to stay.”  AMC Curator Aaron Snook says, “We couldn’t be more excited that this new American Myth has a chance to grow and find new audiences.  We’re extremely grateful to ArtsAVL and the Mountain History and Culture Group for the support.”

 

TOUR SCHEDULE

 

JUNE 10 @ 11AM ~ FAIRVIEW LIBRARY

 

JUNE 10 @ 2PM ~ LEICESTER LIBRARY

 

JUNE 17TH @ 11AM & 1PM ~ VANCE BIRTHPLACE HISTORICAL SITE

 

JUNE 24 @ 11AM ~ SWANNANOA LIBRARY

 

JUNE 24 @ 2PM ~ PACK LIBRARY

 

LIBRARY SHOWS: With the support of ArtsAVL’s generous Grassroots Grant, this event is free for all; simply show up and enjoy the show.

 

VANCE BIRTHPLACE SHOW: With the support of the Mountain History and Culture Group, this free event will be ticketed with a pre-show historical tour and post-show moderated discussion.  Seats will be limited and can be reserved here:    https://www.eventbrite.com/e/juneteenth-leah-the-rabbit-tickets-637397080827

CREATIVES: Leah & the Rabbit is created and directed by Mikayla Wilson with puppets created by Mikayla Wilson and Aaron Snook featuring Mikayla Wilson, Mack Moseley, and Sherly Moore as puppeteers and Stephanie Hickling Beckman as the voice of Leah.

AMC INFO:  The AMC’s mission is to curate stories to spark necessary conversation within our community.  Upon reflecting on the AMC, founder Aaron Snook says, “While our mission stays the same, we continue to evolve in how we achieve that goal.  This year’s initiatives, Leah & the Rabbit and A Different Myth (our new play development collaboration with Different Strokes) continue our journey in discovering how we can best serve our beloved community.”

Activation in the Park
Jun 24 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
French Broad River Park
Activation in the Park

Activation in the Park

French Broad River Park: Go to the parking lot off of Riverview Drive, which is off of Amboy Rd. Find the cobalt blue canopy tent!

We will be as close to as directly across the parking lot as we can, near the water, with the tent (go past the bathrooms and head to the water). So, you should be able to find us pretty easily if it’s your first time).

We’ll enjoy meditations/visualizations, psychic ability empowerment, chakra activations, and lively discussions about how we can participate in the evolution of the new earth… a world where truth and the ethos of love (e.g.: Law of One) are the guiding forces.

All who are interested in spiritual growth and evolution and getting to know others who are “on their wavelength” are welcome.

NOTE: Bring a chair, pillow, or towel to sit on, an open mind, and energies of love, receptivity, and curiosity.

We look forward to meeting you!

Juneteenth Tour of Leah + the Rabbit at Pack Library
Jun 24 @ 2:00 pm
Pack Memorial Library

A 30 minute piece of puppetry originally created by Mikayla Wilson in collaboration with the Vance Birthplace Historical Site staff for the Juneteenth program at the Vance Birthplace Historical Site, Leah & the Rabbit is making a journey throughout Buncombe Country in partnership with Buncombe County libraries and the Vance Birthplace Historical Site with the support of ArtsAVL and the Mountain History and Culture Group.

After its origin last Juneteenth at the Vance birthplace, Leah and the Rabbit has played as part of the City of Asheville’s Art in the Heart, the Asheville Fringe Festival, and the Asheville Amadeus Festival.  This June, with the support of the ArtsAVL Grassroots Grant, the show will tour across the county, bringing this powerful story to more audiences than ever.  Ms. Wilson says, “The show talks about the forgotten stories of the enslaved people owned by the Vance family. Leah Erwin is one of twenty-seven known enslaved people that were owned by and lived with the Vance family. Leah’s story is paired with the tales of Br’er Rabbit, a popular folk story character that was passed down by enslaved people but appropriated by white storytellers with racial bias. Many Black people were brought to Asheville for cheap or enslaved labor to support the tourist industry in the antebellum period. Now, Black people must compete with systems that favor the wealthy or privileged. This story is meant to question the people who are being removed from Asheville and who can afford to stay.”  AMC Curator Aaron Snook says, “We couldn’t be more excited that this new American Myth has a chance to grow and find new audiences.  We’re extremely grateful to ArtsAVL and the Mountain History and Culture Group for the support.”

 

TOUR SCHEDULE

 

JUNE 10 @ 11AM ~ FAIRVIEW LIBRARY

 

JUNE 10 @ 2PM ~ LEICESTER LIBRARY

 

JUNE 17TH @ 11AM & 1PM ~ VANCE BIRTHPLACE HISTORICAL SITE

 

JUNE 24 @ 11AM ~ SWANNANOA LIBRARY

 

JUNE 24 @ 2PM ~ PACK LIBRARY

 

LIBRARY SHOWS: With the support of ArtsAVL’s generous Grassroots Grant, this event is free for all; simply show up and enjoy the show.

 

VANCE BIRTHPLACE SHOW: With the support of the Mountain History and Culture Group, this free event will be ticketed with a pre-show historical tour and post-show moderated discussion.  Seats will be limited and can be reserved here:    https://www.eventbrite.com/e/juneteenth-leah-the-rabbit-tickets-637397080827

CREATIVES: Leah & the Rabbit is created and directed by Mikayla Wilson with puppets created by Mikayla Wilson and Aaron Snook featuring Mikayla Wilson, Mack Moseley, and Sherly Moore as puppeteers and Stephanie Hickling Beckman as the voice of Leah.

AMC INFO:  The AMC’s mission is to curate stories to spark necessary conversation within our community.  Upon reflecting on the AMC, founder Aaron Snook says, “While our mission stays the same, we continue to evolve in how we achieve that goal.  This year’s initiatives, Leah & the Rabbit and A Different Myth (our new play development collaboration with Different Strokes) continue our journey in discovering how we can best serve our beloved community.”

Swannanoa Library Anime Club
Jun 24 @ 2:00 pm
Swannanoa Library

 

Come join the Swannanoa Library Anime Club at our first meeting: Saturday, March 25th at 2:00 pm! We’ll meet the 4th Saturday of every month to watch anime, discuss manga, create crafts, and even try some fun snacks!

WNC/Appalachian Music Series at the Library: The Asheville Dulcimer Orchestra
Jun 24 @ 4:00 pm
Enka-Candler Library

 

Join us for our summer music series “History of WNC/Appalachian Music.” We’ll be featuring musicians and special guests to take you on musical trips around Western North Carolina with a splash of history mixed in! Join us for an hour of music along with 30 minutes of historical tidbits, photos, and fun facts from archivists and librarians during set breaks.

The Asheville Dulcimer Orchestra will be playing a range of Southern Appalachian to classical music and is led by Mack Johnston. What is a Dulcimer? Due in large part to its popularity during the folk music revival, the mountain dulcimer, also called lap dulcimer, is one of the instruments most readily associated with Southern Appalachia. Millions were introduced to the instrument’s gentle sound by Jean Ritchie and Frank Proffitt of Watauga County, North Carolina. The mountain dulcimer is usually played across one’s lap, noting or chording with the left hand and strumming the three or four strings with the right.

To hear what it sounds like and see what it looks like, join us for this free program! The program takes place in our library community room at Enka and is in partnership with Buncombe County Special Collections.

Next month in the Appalachian music series, the library will host Honky Tonk Family Social Night featuring Hearts Gone South bringing us classic-style county music. Stay tuned for more details!

 

The Maggie Valley Band
Jun 24 @ 7:30 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

Hendersonville Theatre proudly presents The Maggie Valley Band as June’s intimate Hometown Sound concert. Hailing from the beautiful mountains of Maggie Valley, The Maggie Valley Band brings sister-sister harmonies to a mix of indie and folk rock, intertwined with a heavy sixties influence, producing a sound affectionately referred to as “Dark Appalachian.” What began in a small town has taken them all over the United States and Canada. The band released their album “The Hardest Thing” in 2018 under the direction of Grammy and Emmy nominated producer, David Mayfield. In 2020, TMVB released the EP “Something New” under the production of Jantzen Wray. In 2022, TMVB released the EP “Breakdown” under the production of Matt Langston of EleventySeven and Rock Candy Recordings. TMVB’s career has taken them as far as Canada and they have partnered with acts such as: Sarah Shook + the disarmers, Jason Isbell, Infamous Stringdusters, Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Black Lillies, Indigo Girls, Brent Cobb, Donna & the Buffalo Lonesome Riverband and many more.

Sunday, June 25, 2023
Have a Gardening Question? Contact the Helpline! 2023 Schedule
Jun 25 all-day
Extension Office

Extension Master GardenerSM volunteers will be staffing the Helpline as indicated in the schedule below. You may send an email or leave a voicemail at any time and an Extension Master Gardener volunteer will respond during Garden Helpline hours. When emailing, please include a photo if it helps describe your garden question. Soil test kits can be picked up at the Extension office, 24/7. The kits are located in a box outside the front door.

Three ways to contact the Garden Helpline
Call 828-255-5522
Email questions and photos to [email protected]
Visit the Extension Office at 49 Mt. Carmel Road during Helpline hours, listed below.

Garden Helpline Hours

March – (starts March 6)
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

April through September:
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Wednesday 12:00 Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

October – (ends October 26th) 
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

We are here to help and support you! Please contact us. We look forward to answering your gardening questions.

Help us keep our community cool: Support YWCA’s fundraiser
Jun 25 all-day
online

The YWCA recently learned that our aging HVAC system can no longer reliably heat and cool our building. This means more than discomfort for members and staff – we are required to maintain a consistent and healthy temperature in the building for the well-being and safety of the children in our childcare programs. We are asking for your help to address the immediate need for $60k to replace the first five of our 24 HVAC units and ensure that both of our Childcare programs can continue to provide accessible childcare to working families and the work of the YWCA can continue without disruption.

MANNA’s Outpace Hunger campaign
Jun 25 all-day
online

Let’s get you registered for Outpace Hunger!

Mountain Housing Opportunities Fundraising Challenge Announced: Dollar for Dollar match from Biltmore
Jun 25 all-day
online
$35,000 Fundraising Challenge Announced: Dollar for Dollar match from Biltmore

Mountain Housing Opportunities (MHO) is excited to announce a special philanthropic commitment from The Biltmore Company in honor of MHO’s 35th Anniversary: a $35,000 Matching Gift Challenge.

Beginning in June, Biltmore will match all donations made to MHO on a dollar-for-dollar basis, up to $35,000. This special matching gift will DOUBLE the impact of individual donations and will result in at least $70,000 raised to support MHO’s affordable housing programs and services.

“The need for affordable housing in our region has never been greater. We are excited to partner with Biltmore to bring greater awareness to this urgent need and inspire others to donate what they can.” said Scott Dedman, MHO’s President and Executive Director. “Philanthropic support from individuals and  business partners like Biltmore help to fuel MHO’s efforts to create more opportunities for residents of western North Carolina to find and keep affordable housing and to build generational wealth through more equitable paths to homeownership.”

Biltmore’s history of community engagement and philanthropy dates back to its founding nearly 130 years ago. “We continue the Vanderbilt tradition of giving back and by supporting our community’s economic growth,” shared Tim Rosebrock, Vice President of Compliance and Legal Services at Biltmore. “Biltmore’s philanthropy is a demonstration of our core values in action. We are honored to support Mountain Housing Opportunities’ work to create and preserve affordable housing for the people who call this region home. And we hope the opportunity to have your donation matched encourages more of our neighbors to pitch in with their own contributions, as well.”

All donations received from individuals, including gifts in support of MHO’s upcoming 35th Anniversary Celebration, are eligible to receive a 100% match from Biltmore, up to $35,000. This includes gifts from family foundations and donor advised funds. Gifts from businesses are not eligible for the match.

“We are grateful for this generous and timely contribution from Biltmore in honor of MHO’s 35 years in business,” said Allison Rollison, Director of Philanthropy at MHO. “Biltmore’s reputation for excellence, service, and stewardship is unparalleled. We are honored to be aligned with a company that centers the dignity and well-being of the people of western North Carolina. This $35,000 match will catalyze generosity from others in our community who also believe that everyone – no matter their income—deserves a safe, stable, affordable place to call home.”

Need Help With Water Bills? New Water Assistance Program Could Offer Help.
Jun 25 all-day
online

If you’re behind on your water bill or afraid your water might get cut off, a new resource might be able to help you. On Jan. 4, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners approved more than $450,000 in federal funding for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). The initiative is aimed at preventing water disconnections and helping reconnect drinking and wastewater services.

The LIHWAP will be administered by Buncombe County-based Eblen Charities. The nonprofit will make payments directly to utilities on behalf of qualifying households. The program is slated to run through Sept. 30, 2023 or until funds are exhausted.

Eligibility requirements

Households that currently receive Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Work First services, or those that received Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) services from Oct. 1, 2020-Sept. 30, 2021, are automatically eligible to receive this benefit if their water services have been cut off or are in danger of being cut off.

For additional eligibility information or to apply, please contact Eblen Charities at (828) 255-3066.

Pisgah Legal Together We Dream Giving Challenge
Jun 25 all-day
online

According to a study by Syracuse University, North Carolina ranks last in the country for people likely to have legal representation in their immigration cases. Here in Western North Carolina (WNC), nonprofit Pisgah Legal Services (PLS) provides most of the free civil legal aid for area immigrants and is working to raise $100,000 by July 1st to support this important work.

“Pisgah Legal Services provides life-changing – and sometimes life-saving – legal representation for immigrants and asylum seekers, and that help is scarce and very hard to come by,” says PLS Chief Development Officer Ally Wilson. “We only have three immigration attorneys to serve our entire 18-county region, and Pisgah Legal provides the majority of free legal aid for immigrants in WNC.”

She continued, “Thanks to generous supporters who have already come forward, we have raised $30,000 towards the $100,000 goal by July 1 for our Together We Dream Giving Challenge. We need additional charitable contributions to keep families together and educated about their rights, to secure legal immigration status and work authorizations and to stop the violence and abuse that many come to the United States to escape.”

Gifts made in the coming week will be matched! “A generous donor has stepped forward to help us build momentum to reach our goal,” says Wilson. “From now until Wednesday, June 21st, all gifts will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $5,000. Give today and your gift will have double the impact!”

Want to Help?

Giving online is fast, easy and secure at https://www.pisgahlegal.org/dream or contact Chief Development Officer Ally Wilson by phone 828-210-3444 or via email: [email protected].  Checks may be mailed to Pisgah Legal Services, P.O. Box 2276, Asheville, N.C.  28802