Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.
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Sunday, May
17, 2020
River Parks and Nature Preserve Reopen
“We know that parks provide a connection to our natural world, opportunities for physical activity that can reduce stress and improve mental health, and places to seek peace and restoration,” said Josh O’Conner, Director of Buncombe County Recreation Services. “As COVID-19 remains a threat, everyone does not live somewhere with a yard to play in or safe access to walking or jogging opportunities. We believe these eight parks can be used safely and responsibly by the residents of Buncombe County. As long as visitors practice ‘COV-etiquette,’ these parks will remain open for everyone to enjoy fresh air. We owe it to essential workers on the frontlines to continue extra precautions each time we walk out the door. Let’s continue the progress we’ve made together.”
When possible, exercise at home, walk in your neighborhood, enjoy your yard and residential outdoor spaces, and visit less crowded parks or during off-peak hours. You should only visit parks with members of your own household and not use these spaces to meet up with others for social opportunities. O’Conner said Recreation Services staff are monitoring parks regularly to ensure they do not become too crowded.
Guidance for park visitors:
- Stay home if you are sick or exhibiting symptoms.
- Wash your hands before leaving home and bring sanitizer or wipes, water, and sunscreen. There are no restrooms or water fountains at the eight parks that are currently open.
- Maintain at least six feet of physical distance between yourself and anyone who does not live in your household.
- Refrain from touching surfaces including trees and rocks. Picnic tables, grills, and fitness equipment remain closed.
- Keep it moving when using trails and step aside to let others pass. At some parks, trails may be marked as one-way only.
- Limit your park time so that others can also safely enjoy the space.
- Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter to help minimize invasive species, bank erosion, and water pollution.
- Let us know how you’re enjoying your parks! Tag Recreation Services on Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #IHeartBCParks.
The reopened parks are open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Collier Cove Nature Preserve on 194 Rhododendron Drive in Arden
- Alexander River Park on 2589 Old Marshall Highway in Alexander
- Bent Creek River Park on 1610 Brevard Road in Asheville
- Corcoran Paige River Park on 9 Pinners Road in Arden
- Glen Bridge River Park on 77 Pinners Road in Asheville
- Hominy Creek River Park on 220 Hominy Creek Road in Asheville
- Ledges Whitewater Park on 1080 Old Marshall Highway in Alexander
- Walnut Island River Park on 3042 Old Marshall Highway in Alexander
Buncombe County Recreation Services has been the trusted steward of the county’s parkland for decades and continues to serve the public by providing, protecting, and preserving a unique collection of outdoor and indoor recreational facilities – which we see as a core service to the people of Buncombe County. We believe our community is a better place when everyone from infants to retirees have the opportunity to be strong, healthy, and successful. Our projects and programming represent a primary goal of low-cost, equitable, inclusive wellness and therapeutic opportunities that are accessible to all residents regardless of cultural, physical, cognitive, or socioeconomic background to create a livable, healthy, and vibrant community.
Parks open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Buncombe County Sports Park on 58 Apac Circle in Asheville
- Charles D. Owen Park on 875 Warren Wilson Wilson Road in Swannanoa
- Lake Julian Park on 406 Overlook Extension in Arden
Monday, May
18, 2020
COVID-19 has led to local youth sports leagues canceling spring and summer schedules due to physical distancing and mass gathering limitations. Buncombe County’s Independence Day celebration at Lake Julian Park has also been scrapped this year under the same guidance. All other local municipalities have also canceled or rescheduled their annual Independence Day festivals.
Parks open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Buncombe County Sports Park on 58 Apac Circle in Asheville
- Charles D. Owen Park on 875 Warren Wilson Wilson Road in Swannanoa
- Lake Julian Park on 406 Overlook Extension in Arden
Tuesday, May
19, 2020
COVID-19 has led to local youth sports leagues canceling spring and summer schedules due to physical distancing and mass gathering limitations. Buncombe County’s Independence Day celebration at Lake Julian Park has also been scrapped this year under the same guidance. All other local municipalities have also canceled or rescheduled their annual Independence Day festivals.
Parks open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Buncombe County Sports Park on 58 Apac Circle in Asheville
- Charles D. Owen Park on 875 Warren Wilson Wilson Road in Swannanoa
- Lake Julian Park on 406 Overlook Extension in Arden
Join us to hear Josh Kelly, MountainTrue’s Western Field Biologist, examine the various types of management areas proposed within the draft management plan and environmental impact statement for the Nantahala-Pisgah National Forests. Allocation of these areas determines what types of activities can happen in various parts of the forest. Register to receive access to the webinar.
Wednesday, May
20, 2020
COVID-19 has led to local youth sports leagues canceling spring and summer schedules due to physical distancing and mass gathering limitations. Buncombe County’s Independence Day celebration at Lake Julian Park has also been scrapped this year under the same guidance. All other local municipalities have also canceled or rescheduled their annual Independence Day festivals.
Parks open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Buncombe County Sports Park on 58 Apac Circle in Asheville
- Charles D. Owen Park on 875 Warren Wilson Wilson Road in Swannanoa
- Lake Julian Park on 406 Overlook Extension in Arden
Thursday, May
21, 2020
As coronavirus restrictions are loosened, sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway will reopen to drivers as soon as “seasonal mowing and road preparations” are complete, according to a release from parkway spokeswoman Leesa Brandon.
On May 9, the southernmost 14 miles of the Parkway, from Milepost 454-469, will reopen in coordination with the Qualla Boundary and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Gates to longer stretches of the Parkway will be opened May 15 — as long as maintenance projects in that area are completed:
- Milepost 292-296.5 near Blowing Rock, including Moses Cone Parking Area and Hwy 221 Bass Lake Parking Lot.
- Milepost 298.6-308 through Grandfather Mountain area, including Rough Ridge and Linn Cove Viaduct.
- Milepost 316.4 Linville Falls Spur Road, including parking at Linville Falls trailheads.
- Milepost 334-342 including Crabtree Falls Area, near Little Switzerland.
- Milepost 355-375.6 from Mt. Mitchell to Ox Creek, including Craggy Gardens.
- Milepost 377.4 Parking areas at Craven Gap (Town Mountain Rd) for MST Trail access.
- Milepost 384.7 Roadside parking at MST Trailheads at US 74A Parkway access ramps.
- Milepost 393-454 from French Broad River Overlook and south to Soco Gap.
COVID-19 has led to local youth sports leagues canceling spring and summer schedules due to physical distancing and mass gathering limitations. Buncombe County’s Independence Day celebration at Lake Julian Park has also been scrapped this year under the same guidance. All other local municipalities have also canceled or rescheduled their annual Independence Day festivals.
Parks open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Buncombe County Sports Park on 58 Apac Circle in Asheville
- Charles D. Owen Park on 875 Warren Wilson Wilson Road in Swannanoa
- Lake Julian Park on 406 Overlook Extension in Arden
Friday, May
22, 2020
As coronavirus restrictions are loosened, sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway will reopen to drivers as soon as “seasonal mowing and road preparations” are complete, according to a release from parkway spokeswoman Leesa Brandon.
On May 9, the southernmost 14 miles of the Parkway, from Milepost 454-469, will reopen in coordination with the Qualla Boundary and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Gates to longer stretches of the Parkway will be opened May 15 — as long as maintenance projects in that area are completed:
- Milepost 292-296.5 near Blowing Rock, including Moses Cone Parking Area and Hwy 221 Bass Lake Parking Lot.
- Milepost 298.6-308 through Grandfather Mountain area, including Rough Ridge and Linn Cove Viaduct.
- Milepost 316.4 Linville Falls Spur Road, including parking at Linville Falls trailheads.
- Milepost 334-342 including Crabtree Falls Area, near Little Switzerland.
- Milepost 355-375.6 from Mt. Mitchell to Ox Creek, including Craggy Gardens.
- Milepost 377.4 Parking areas at Craven Gap (Town Mountain Rd) for MST Trail access.
- Milepost 384.7 Roadside parking at MST Trailheads at US 74A Parkway access ramps.
- Milepost 393-454 from French Broad River Overlook and south to Soco Gap.
COVID-19 has led to local youth sports leagues canceling spring and summer schedules due to physical distancing and mass gathering limitations. Buncombe County’s Independence Day celebration at Lake Julian Park has also been scrapped this year under the same guidance. All other local municipalities have also canceled or rescheduled their annual Independence Day festivals.
Parks open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Buncombe County Sports Park on 58 Apac Circle in Asheville
- Charles D. Owen Park on 875 Warren Wilson Wilson Road in Swannanoa
- Lake Julian Park on 406 Overlook Extension in Arden
Saturday, May
23, 2020
As coronavirus restrictions are loosened, sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway will reopen to drivers as soon as “seasonal mowing and road preparations” are complete, according to a release from parkway spokeswoman Leesa Brandon.
On May 9, the southernmost 14 miles of the Parkway, from Milepost 454-469, will reopen in coordination with the Qualla Boundary and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Gates to longer stretches of the Parkway will be opened May 15 — as long as maintenance projects in that area are completed:
- Milepost 292-296.5 near Blowing Rock, including Moses Cone Parking Area and Hwy 221 Bass Lake Parking Lot.
- Milepost 298.6-308 through Grandfather Mountain area, including Rough Ridge and Linn Cove Viaduct.
- Milepost 316.4 Linville Falls Spur Road, including parking at Linville Falls trailheads.
- Milepost 334-342 including Crabtree Falls Area, near Little Switzerland.
- Milepost 355-375.6 from Mt. Mitchell to Ox Creek, including Craggy Gardens.
- Milepost 377.4 Parking areas at Craven Gap (Town Mountain Rd) for MST Trail access.
- Milepost 384.7 Roadside parking at MST Trailheads at US 74A Parkway access ramps.
- Milepost 393-454 from French Broad River Overlook and south to Soco Gap.
COVID-19 has led to local youth sports leagues canceling spring and summer schedules due to physical distancing and mass gathering limitations. Buncombe County’s Independence Day celebration at Lake Julian Park has also been scrapped this year under the same guidance. All other local municipalities have also canceled or rescheduled their annual Independence Day festivals.
Parks open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Buncombe County Sports Park on 58 Apac Circle in Asheville
- Charles D. Owen Park on 875 Warren Wilson Wilson Road in Swannanoa
- Lake Julian Park on 406 Overlook Extension in Arden
Sunday, May
24, 2020
As coronavirus restrictions are loosened, sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway will reopen to drivers as soon as “seasonal mowing and road preparations” are complete, according to a release from parkway spokeswoman Leesa Brandon.
On May 9, the southernmost 14 miles of the Parkway, from Milepost 454-469, will reopen in coordination with the Qualla Boundary and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Gates to longer stretches of the Parkway will be opened May 15 — as long as maintenance projects in that area are completed:
- Milepost 292-296.5 near Blowing Rock, including Moses Cone Parking Area and Hwy 221 Bass Lake Parking Lot.
- Milepost 298.6-308 through Grandfather Mountain area, including Rough Ridge and Linn Cove Viaduct.
- Milepost 316.4 Linville Falls Spur Road, including parking at Linville Falls trailheads.
- Milepost 334-342 including Crabtree Falls Area, near Little Switzerland.
- Milepost 355-375.6 from Mt. Mitchell to Ox Creek, including Craggy Gardens.
- Milepost 377.4 Parking areas at Craven Gap (Town Mountain Rd) for MST Trail access.
- Milepost 384.7 Roadside parking at MST Trailheads at US 74A Parkway access ramps.
- Milepost 393-454 from French Broad River Overlook and south to Soco Gap.
COVID-19 has led to local youth sports leagues canceling spring and summer schedules due to physical distancing and mass gathering limitations. Buncombe County’s Independence Day celebration at Lake Julian Park has also been scrapped this year under the same guidance. All other local municipalities have also canceled or rescheduled their annual Independence Day festivals.
- Parks and Recreation Indoor Facilities are Closed until further notice.
- Park Playgrounds are Closed until further notice.
- Park Restrooms will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- Outdoor Tennis and Pickleball Courts will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- If you are waiting to use a court please wait outside of the fence or in your vehicle.
- If others are waiting to use a court please keep your playing time to 60 minutes.
- Outdoor Parks remain Open.
- Fields and shelters are Open, however groups must kept to 25 people or less. If you are waiting to use a field or shelter please do not wait in the immediate area; please wait outside of the field or shelter in an open area or in your vehicle.
If you choose to utilize Henderson County Parks please be respectful of other users, keep your group to 25 or less and provide others with appropriate social distancing. PLEASE NOTE that the trails at Hickory Nut Gorge are controlled by Conserving Carolina and they have closed them until further notice.
DuPont State Recreational Forest and neighboring Holmes Educational State Forest have begun a phased reopening in Western North Carolina.
To encourage responsible use and to maintain required social distancing, phased reopening will begin by allowing public access only to areas of the forest that promote movement-focused activities. Some areas and facilities of the forest will not be available to the public during phase one of the reopening but will become available in accordance with Governor Cooper’s phased plan for reopening the state.
“N.C. Forest Service staff are working hard, taking every precaution, to make sure our state forests are available for families and visitors to safely enjoy some of North Carolina’s most beautiful views,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Now, we need the public to join our efforts. We must take care of public lands and each other by following social distancing guidelines and recommendations from our public health experts.”
Minimal services, facilities and assistance will be available for visitors. Responsible recreation is critical during this time. Visitors are asked to be good stewards and good neighbors. Visitors may find limited parking at busy times. Please only park in designated parking areas.
What can visitors expect during a visit to DuPont State Recreational Forest during phase one of the reopening?
- DuPont State Recreational Forest is open daily, 5 a.m. until 10 p.m.
- Most of the trail system is open, and visitors should come prepared to access trails and to keep moving. Come prepared to share trails with all types of users. Trail courtesy is critical during this time to ensure safe access for everyone.
- Parking is limited to Fawn Lake Access Area, Guion Farm Access Area and Corn Mill Shoals Access Area. Expect crowding and limited parking.
- Portable toilets are available. Permanent restrooms are not available.
- Gathering areas of the forest remain closed to encourage movement and separation. These areas include the following:
- High Falls Access Area Hooker Falls Access Area, and Lake Imaging Access Area
- Visitor Center and Office
- Triple Falls Trail and Staircase, Base of High Falls Trail, Wintergreen Falls, and the area at the base of Bridal Veil (Waterfall viewing areas remain available. Remember social distancing. Remain patient. Wait your turn.)
- Three Lakes Trail
- All picnic areas
- Swimming areas and waterfronts
- Hooker Falls, Fawn Lake, Lake Dense and Lake Alford
Parks open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Buncombe County Sports Park on 58 Apac Circle in Asheville
- Charles D. Owen Park on 875 Warren Wilson Wilson Road in Swannanoa
- Lake Julian Park on 406 Overlook Extension in Arden
Monday, May
25, 2020
- Parks and Recreation Indoor Facilities are Closed until further notice.
- Park Playgrounds are Closed until further notice.
- Park Restrooms will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- Outdoor Tennis and Pickleball Courts will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- If you are waiting to use a court please wait outside of the fence or in your vehicle.
- If others are waiting to use a court please keep your playing time to 60 minutes.
- Outdoor Parks remain Open.
- Fields and shelters are Open, however groups must kept to 25 people or less. If you are waiting to use a field or shelter please do not wait in the immediate area; please wait outside of the field or shelter in an open area or in your vehicle.
If you choose to utilize Henderson County Parks please be respectful of other users, keep your group to 25 or less and provide others with appropriate social distancing. PLEASE NOTE that the trails at Hickory Nut Gorge are controlled by Conserving Carolina and they have closed them until further notice.
Tuesday, May
26, 2020
- Parks and Recreation Indoor Facilities are Closed until further notice.
- Park Playgrounds are Closed until further notice.
- Park Restrooms will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- Outdoor Tennis and Pickleball Courts will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- If you are waiting to use a court please wait outside of the fence or in your vehicle.
- If others are waiting to use a court please keep your playing time to 60 minutes.
- Outdoor Parks remain Open.
- Fields and shelters are Open, however groups must kept to 25 people or less. If you are waiting to use a field or shelter please do not wait in the immediate area; please wait outside of the field or shelter in an open area or in your vehicle.
If you choose to utilize Henderson County Parks please be respectful of other users, keep your group to 25 or less and provide others with appropriate social distancing. PLEASE NOTE that the trails at Hickory Nut Gorge are controlled by Conserving Carolina and they have closed them until further notice.
Wednesday, May
27, 2020
- Parks and Recreation Indoor Facilities are Closed until further notice.
- Park Playgrounds are Closed until further notice.
- Park Restrooms will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- Outdoor Tennis and Pickleball Courts will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- If you are waiting to use a court please wait outside of the fence or in your vehicle.
- If others are waiting to use a court please keep your playing time to 60 minutes.
- Outdoor Parks remain Open.
- Fields and shelters are Open, however groups must kept to 25 people or less. If you are waiting to use a field or shelter please do not wait in the immediate area; please wait outside of the field or shelter in an open area or in your vehicle.
If you choose to utilize Henderson County Parks please be respectful of other users, keep your group to 25 or less and provide others with appropriate social distancing. PLEASE NOTE that the trails at Hickory Nut Gorge are controlled by Conserving Carolina and they have closed them until further notice.
Thursday, May
28, 2020
COVID-19 has led to local youth sports leagues canceling spring and summer schedules due to physical distancing and mass gathering limitations. Buncombe County’s Independence Day celebration at Lake Julian Park has also been scrapped this year under the same guidance. All other local municipalities have also canceled or rescheduled their annual Independence Day festivals.
- Parks and Recreation Indoor Facilities are Closed until further notice.
- Park Playgrounds are Closed until further notice.
- Park Restrooms will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- Outdoor Tennis and Pickleball Courts will reopen on Friday May 8th at 5:00pm.
- If you are waiting to use a court please wait outside of the fence or in your vehicle.
- If others are waiting to use a court please keep your playing time to 60 minutes.
- Outdoor Parks remain Open.
- Fields and shelters are Open, however groups must kept to 25 people or less. If you are waiting to use a field or shelter please do not wait in the immediate area; please wait outside of the field or shelter in an open area or in your vehicle.
If you choose to utilize Henderson County Parks please be respectful of other users, keep your group to 25 or less and provide others with appropriate social distancing. PLEASE NOTE that the trails at Hickory Nut Gorge are controlled by Conserving Carolina and they have closed them until further notice.
Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.
Friday, May
29, 2020
COVID-19 has led to local youth sports leagues canceling spring and summer schedules due to physical distancing and mass gathering limitations. Buncombe County’s Independence Day celebration at Lake Julian Park has also been scrapped this year under the same guidance. All other local municipalities have also canceled or rescheduled their annual Independence Day festivals.
