Calendar of Events
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.

Ethno is JM International’s program for folk, world and traditional music. Founded in 1990, it is aimed at young musicians (up to the age of 30) with a mission to revive and keep alive global cultural heritage.
Present today in over 40 countries and on all 6 continents, Ethno engages young people through a series of annual international music camps as well as workshops, concerts and tours, working together with schools, conservatories and other groups of youth to promote peace, tolerance and understanding.
Applications are open for the second edition of Ethno USA, from October 11-23 in beautiful Black Mountain, NC. We are so excited to be back there, and we hope you’ll join us.
We expect to welcome up to 40 musicians. Will you be one of them? Apply now!!
The artistic mentors are:
Anh Phung — Flute, Vocal (Canada)
Dal’Suhu Not-Afraid — Voice, Guitar, Drums(Hopi Nation, USA)
Helen Forsythe — Accordion, Banjo (USA)
Justin Golden — Guitar, Voice (USA)
Fifth mentor TBA!
Sign up! Applications are approved on a rolling basis!
Apply by September 27 | The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority’s Festivals & Cultural Events Support Fund Grant is designed to provide financial support for events that serve both the residents of Buncombe County and the visitors who travel to the Asheville area.

Since 1977, the North Carolina Arts Council’s Grassroots Arts Program (GAP) has provided North Carolina citizens access to quality arts experiences. Using a per capita based formula, the program provides funding for the arts in all 100 counties of the state through partnerships with local arts councils. The Grassroots Grant Program is made possible by the Grassroots Arts Program of North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources, and Buncombe County Government.
The Grassroot Arts Program provides programmatic and operating support for nonprofit arts organizations in Buncombe County. Grants for FY23 will range from $2,500-7,500 dollars depending on the size of the organization. The deadline to apply is September 15, 2022.
Multicultural programs and organizations located outside of the City of Asheville will receive special consideration. To be considered a multicultural organization the mission of the organization must be focused on supporting African American, Asian American, Latino, or Native American cultures. For a program to be considered multicultural it must be conducted by artists, ensembles, or organizations of color.

All throughout September, guests are invited to join the mountain’s naturalists as they count and celebrate the annual spectacle of fall raptor migration. Participants can observe the migration daily at Linville Peak, across the Mile High Swinging Bridge, weather permitting. Included with admission.
Over the past two years, artist-researcher, community organizer, and Center for Craft grant recipient, Macon Reed has built Hello Death, Where Have You Been All My Life? an immersive installation that harnesses the social function of ritual space to reflect, process grief, heal, and envision alternative futures.
This September, several breweries are participating in our annual campaign that unites MANNA and our local brewers, Hops for Hunger.
For every pour of a particular brew, the brewery will donate $1 to MANNA. This month’s participants include 12 Bones Brewing, Bold Rock, Boojum Brewing Company, Burning Blush Brewery, Green Man Brewery, Hi-Wire Brewing and Mills River Brewing Company


Listen. Dance. Feel the music and that will answer, “Why the “Legends of Africa?” Africa is the core and essence of where so much of humanity and music has originated. It has forever influenced music and cultures throughout the world with the diaspora of its people. Over the years, LEAF has connected deeply with many African artists and presented artists from 32 of the 54 countries on the continent. These bonds and our love of Africa, bring us back the magic of not just the continent, but its people, our family. So join us for a true gathering of friends and the rekindling of traditions that have made the past 27 years of LEAF memorable.
“The shortest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.”
Masankho Banda from Malawi.
Who is an African Legend you admire? Chinobay of Uganda said he’s been inspired by the music he listened to during Apartheid. He spoke of Miriam Makeba (nicknamed Momma Africa) a South African singer, songwriter and activist whose music was socially responsible and carried so much power for the people. What makes you a Legend is the MESSAGE you carry to the world.
In flow with Chinobay’s reflection, the artwork is a masterpiece created by legendary artist Trek 6 inspired by his work in South Africa while producing a documentary. Trek spoke about how the sunrises and sunsets in Africa were surreal, thus he began with a beautiful sun design. A wall of drums in South Africa, where they host people from different tribes bringing food, song and art inspired the drums. In Trek’s own words, “Africa is cosmic, colorful, and the center to our past. From it we radiated.”We are honored by his artistic vision.

Nantahala Outdoor Center’s premier Mountaintop Zip Line Tour takes the heart-pounding intensity up a notch when it’s under the night time sky! On dates near a full moon, NOC offers limited trips on this stunning Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour.
Zip under the night sky while taking in the sights and sounds of the calm Blue Ridge Mountains. NOC’s expert aerial guides use glow sticks to signal you, and you use glow sticks to paint the night sky. This adventure truly feels magical.
NOC’s Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line Tour consists of two-miles of mountaintop-to-mountaintop zip lines, culminating in the heart-pounding 1/2 mile Mega Zip underneath the stars – silhouetting stunning 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Highlights
- NOC’s Moonlight Mountaintop Zip Line is an unparalleled experience of mountaintop-to-mountaintop zips under a full moon.
- Glow sticks are used by Aerial Guides to signal you forward through the course.
- Participants use glow sticks to paint the star-filled sky.
- The 1/2 Mile Mega Zip is the true gem of the trip – offering silhouetted 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the starry night sky.
What to Expect
Please check-in for your trip 30 minutes prior to your reservation at the Adventure Deck. All guests should have prior zip lining experience. Once being fitted for equipment, guests will shuttle to a ground school where they will receive instructions on how to use glow sticks to signal with the Aerial Guides. Guests will be required to demonstrate proficiency in zip lining including breaking.

Adventure is what we do.
Nantahala Outdoor Center has a long history of venturing where many haven’t, pioneering new adventures, and bringing opportunities to experience the outdoors to millions of guests over five decades. Our International Adventure Tours offer unique destinations, exciting adventures and activities, experienced guides, and world-class hospitality. These all-inclusive, small group excursions will redefine how you travel. Experience some of the most breathtaking places in the world without feeling like a tourist.
If your idea of fun is a rafting trip on the Chilko, a quiet lake paddle in Argentina, surf lessons in Ecuador, or trekking in Iceland, our trips have something for every adventure and skill level. Enjoy kayaking, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, yoga, surfing, ziplining, wine tastings, or cultural experiences, along with the flexibility to customize your own adventure. Settle in after your travels in some of the most unique accommodations in the world; from cozy lodges and five star resorts, with local cuisine and tastings, every detail is meticulously planned so you can soak up every moment.
We hope these guided, off-the-beaten-path expeditions will foster the same spirit of adventure we encourage in our Southeastern locations, while giving you the opportunity to explore beyond your own backyard.
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We have officially announced our new 2023 Adventure travel trips for you to explore new destinations, try new adventures, and experience new cultures! Our trips are small groups, offer world-class hospitality, unique lodging and the most diverse activity options for you to try! We’re giving “revenge travel” new meaning. |

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.

OUTPACE HUNGER
FEED PEOPLE AND YOUR PASSION!

What Is Outpace Hunger?
Looking for a way to make a real impact this spring and summer? Feed people while pursuing your passion through Outpace Hunger, an action-based fundraising campaign that turns a favorite activity into meals!
For decades, MANNA FoodBank has been working to outpace hunger and food insecurity all across 16 counties of Western North Carolina, including the Qualla Boundary. The 2022 campaign runs May 1 through September 30, and we invite you join the growing community of folks who are Outpacing Hunger alongside of us!
How It Works
Participating in Outpace Hunger is easy!
You decide your level of commitment, so every participant can create their own path to helping provide food to our community. Participants also decide how, when, and where they complete their goal, any time now through the campaign end on September 30.
Outpace Hunger participants:
(1) Register to be a part of MANNA’s Outpace Hunger community. The $20 registration fee includes a t-shirt for you and provides 80 MEALS for neighbors facing food insecurity in WNC.
(2) Choose a favorite activity (run, walk, roll, stroll, hike, bike, paddle, climb, float, skate, golf, and everything in between!) to complete individually, or as a family/group/team.
(3) Set a goal to reach. This can be an activity-related goal, a fundraising goal, or both.
(4) Invite friends and family to support your fundraising efforts through your own, personalized Outpace Hunger webpage.

Whether running a 5K, walking your neighborhood, hiking the Mountains to Sea trail, or paddling the French Broad River, Outpace Hunger participants play a vital part in ensuring our WNC neighbors have access to healthy food.
READY TO OUTPACE HUNGER WITH US?
ALREADY AN OUTPACE HUNGER PARTICIPANT?
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
Make a $20 donation or more to either REVOLVE or the Bob Moog Foundation (or both), and be entered into a raffle to win wonderful prizes such as our new Sync T-Shirt, Records and Tapes from the Make Noise Crew, and an XPO! For every $20 you donate, you’ll receive a raffle ticket. Donations must be made September 9-September 27 10AM EST directly to the org using the links provided (coming soon), and you must include Make Noise in the memo line. These orgs will send us a list of all donors & donations on the 27th, and we will announce the winners live in person at our Closing Party September 29th. Items will be mailed the following week, unless the winner is there to receive it. People who come to the pop-up for a demo will receive an extra raffle ticket after they donate.
Why do these organizations mean a lot to the Make Noise Crew?
REVOLVE is a place we go to often–to play, to see each other play, to immerse ourselves in sound, to experience installations, to gather with other artists. REVOLVE provides inclusive programming centered around sound experiments, and that’s joy for us!
The Bob Moog Foundation creates hands-on opportunities for folks of all ages to explore the science of sound. We especially love the work they do teaching children about the intersection of music and tech, preparing them for a lifetime of sonic adventures!

The art gallery at Asheville Regional Airport is showcasing 3 local artists in its newest exhibit. Revive highlights a variety of creations from sculpture and pottery to mixed media pieces.
The artists each bring a unique perspective of new life to their work. Mark Crossley’s botanical studies are realized in copper sculptures. Mark Flowers’ mixed media designs tell stories that are a cause for reflection. Akira Satake’s pottery uses traditional Japanese firing and glazing methods to create classic and unique forms.
“As hundreds of thousands of travelers pass through our airport during this exhibit, we are proud to show off these local artists and give visitors and residents a taste of the creativity in our region,” said Alexandra Ingle, Brand and Experience Designer at AVL and curator of the gallery.
Artwork can be purchased from the gallery by emailing [email protected]. Details about the program and how to apply can be found on the airport’s website at flyavl.com.
Sponsorships now available for businesses, groups, families & individuals to support TFAC programs.
Contact Marianne at 828-859-8322 or email [email protected] to learn more.
ReUse Contest Guidelines
WHEN
The contest begins on August 1, 2022 and ends on September 30, 2022. Winners will be announced in October.
WHO
Anyone! (Except employees of Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity)
WHAT
The Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity ReStore is hosting the 11th annual ReUse Contest to showcase innovative building projects constructed predominantly of used building materials.
Winners will be selected in the following categories:
- Furniture: $200 ReStore gift card
- Homesteading (i.e. chicken coop, raised bed): $200 ReStore gift card
- Live and/or work space: $200 ReStore gift card
- Art: $200 ReStore gift card
- Home Decor: $200 ReStore gift card
- Vans & Vehicles: $200 ReStore gift card
- Best in Show: $500 ReStore gift card
Winners will be announced in a press release, on Asheville Habitat’s website and social media pages, and featured in the Asheville Habitat ReStore.
OTHER DETAILS
- Entries must be submitted electronically using the form provided.
- Projects should have been completed within the last 2 years.
- You may submit up to three separate projects (individually).
- Re-submission of a project submitted in previous years will not be accepted.
- Incomplete entries will not be considered.
- Questions? Email [email protected].
JUDGING
There will be 5 judges, assessing entries based on:
- Quality of design and execution
- Replicability of concept
- Clarity of description
- Quality of photos (if we can’t see it well, we can’t judge it fairly)

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Lenoir-Rhyne University Call to Action |
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Earn a Master of Science in Sustainability Studies!
![]() Innovative curriculum designed around you to meet the needs of the world around us. The Master of Science in Sustainability Studies program at Lenoir-Rhyne University helps to develop leaders in the field who will tackle future challenges in the world around us as they relate to sustainability. In doing so, we seek to develop advocates for change. What makes our program unique? Read on.
Curriculum Snapshot
Take the program at your own pace, whether that is part time or full time. Here are some highlights of what you need to know:
Request information from one of our admission staff »
How to Apply
Visit the program website » Application requirements and all you need to know to apply » |
| Find us on Facebook and Twitter! |

Do you have excellent people skills and a safe driving record? Would you enjoy driving people around a small historic farm landscape? Well then we have just the volunteer position for you! We are looking for friendly folks to provide transportation to park visitors during the fall season on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. There are two shifts available: Mornings from 9 -12 and afternoons from 12 – 3.
The vehicles we use as shuttles are either a six passenger hybrid Chrysler Pacifica. or a six passenger golf cart depending on weather and availability.
Please reach out and we will conduct a short interview and get you signed up, and trained!
The National Park Service Volunteers-In-Parks Program (VIP) was authorized and enacted in 1970. The primary purpose of the VIP program is to provide a vehicle through which the National Park Service can accept voluntary help and services from the public. The major objective of the program is to use this voluntary help in such a way that is mutually beneficial to the National Park Service and the volunteer.
Our volunteers are, without a doubt, Very Important People! In Fiscal Year 2005, 137,000 volunteers donated 5.2 million hours to your national parks at a value of $91.2 million. Volunteers come from all over to help preserve and protect America’s natural and cultural heritage for the enjoyment of this and future generations. Young and old alike give of their time and expertise to assist in achieving the National Park Service mission.
Volunteer opportunities at Carl Sandburg Home NHS are very diverse and attract all types of people. Volunteer experiences can be developed in many areas depending upon individual interest. Volunteers are accepted without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability. Please note that volunteers are not considered to be federal employees for any purposes other than tort claims and injury compensation. Volunteer service is not creditable for leave accrual or any other benefit. However, volunteer service is creditable work experience.
Registration is now open for the next session of youth tennis classes starting September 13th at Hendersonville Racquet Club. Kids are put in groups based on age and ability with seven levels available. The session is six weeks long and is $79 for members or $99 for non-members for one class a week plus a play day at the end of the session. Two days a week (12 sessions) is $129/169.
“Our youth tennis program has something for any child who wants to play. From beginner to high performance player, we put them into situations where they will be challenged and can succeed while having a fun time doing it.” stated HRC Director of Junior Tennis Carlista Mo.
The format for this session is having classes once or twice for six weeks. Maximum six kids per class. Each level of class is offered during the weekday and again on Saturday afternoon. Then the session concludes with a fun “Play Day” where they can get match experience. All classes are taught by certified tennis professionals and will be held on HRC’s arena courts. For more info go to www.hvillerc.com or contact 828-693-0040 or [email protected].
Hendersonville Racquet Club is a six acre complex that includes 6 outdoor tennis courts, 3 arena tennis courts, 5 pickleball courts, four racquetball courts, an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, group fitness room and outdoor leisure area by Shaw’s Creek and pond.
This is the 43rd year for this weekly tailgate market, where vendors sell fresh-picked seasonal vegetables and fruit, local honey, cut flowers, plant starts and more!
Join the Blue Ridge Audubon, a chapter of the National Audubon Society for their monthly bird walk at Jackson Park, a renowned birding location. On the 2nd Saturday of each month, meet at the Administration Building parking lot, located on Glover Street, and join the group to see the many wonderful birds found at Jackson Park, Hendersonville’s largest park.
This is a 5k run/walk to help raise awareness of this country’s escalating opioid epidemic. In the last 12 months, over 100,000 people have passed away from a drug overdose. Let’s get high on running, not drugs!
The 5k run/walk is a flat, fast, out and back course that is run on the beautiful Oklawaha Greenway.
Welcome to Western NC’s most premier farmers market!
Since 1980, we have been providing Asheville and the surrounding area with a full range of local, sustainably produced produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, breads, plants, prepared foods and crafts. Day vendors complement the members’ offerings with additional products and services.
The North Asheville Tailgate Market is a weekly, Saturday morning gathering of the best farmers, craftsmen, and bakers. With over 40 vendors and more than 40,000 annual customers, the market’s energetic and warm environment welcomes all.


The WNC Farmers Market is the premier destination for buying and selling the region’s best agriculture products directly from farmers & food producers to household & wholesale customers in an environment that celebrates the region’s diverse culture, food & heritage.
House of Operation:
WNC Farmers Market: 24/7, 361 days a year market access for farmers
Office: Monday- Friday, 8am-5pm
Market Shops: 7 days a week, 8 am-5 pm
Wholesale and Truck Sheds: 7 days a week

After two pandemic years operating as ASAP Farmers Market at A-B Tech, Asheville City Market will return downtown on April 2, from 9 a.m. to noon. Every Saturday, N. Market St. will be closed between Woodfin and E. Walnut streets. Customers can enjoy open-air shopping for local goods from nearly 50 vendors, including farmers, artisan food makers, services, and more.
In addition to in-season fruits and vegetables, vendors from across Western North Carolina provide specialty products like cheese, eggs, grassfed meat and pastured pork, rice, pasta, artisan bread, honey, plants, body care products, and much more. As a producer-only market, each vendor has a personal hand in growing, raising, or crafting their products, giving customers the opportunity to connect directly with farmers and other local producers. A weekly list of vendors is available by subscribing to the market’s newsletter at asapconnections.org.
Asheville City Market will offer ASAP’s Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables, which matches SNAP dollars with tokens that can be used for produce. For instance, if a SNAP customer swipes their EBT card for $10, they will receive $10 in SNAP tokens as well as $10 in Farm Fresh Bucks. SNAP tokens may be used for SNAP-eligible products from any vendor, including produce, meat, cheese, eggs, bread, plants, and more. Farm Fresh Bucks may only be used for fruits and vegetables.
Free parking for customers is available at HomeTrust Bank and Family Justice Center (across from the YMCA at 35 Woodfin St.). There are bus stops on the N1 and N2 routes one block away, on Broadway

COME CELEBRATE!
OPEN FROM MAY – NOVEMBER :: 9AM – NOON


Our market is a seasonal Saturday morning community event featuring organic and sustainably grown produce, plants, cut flowers, herbs, locally raised meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheeses, eggs and local arts and handcrafted items. A family event every Saturday from May through November.
Visit us on Facebook!

Financial Empowerment for Women
Getting Ahead in a Just-Gettin’-By World® – Building Resources for a Better Life. YWCA’s Getting Ahead program aims to provide financial empowerment for low-income women of all ages and backgrounds to make choices that positively impact themselves, their families and their community.
Knowledge is Power
A series of “kitchen table” discussions that investigate the causes of poverty, the hidden rules of class, and resources needed by all. Participants will assess individual situations as well as the condition of our community to achieve economic self-sufficiency.
“Going through the program made me realize that I wasn’t in this by myself. I was surrounded by people just like me who were humble enough to say ‘I need help.”
“The class has re-shaped my thinking process- the way I approach situations as possibilities, not obstacles”
Participants Receive
- Childcare and meals at each session
- A $20 stipend for each session attended
Received once the program is completed - A workbook to keep track of learning and personal goals
- One-on-one case management for 18
months to support personal success - Transportation support is available

Buckle up your helmets and get ready to ride bikes! Buncombe County Parks & Recreation is excited to announce our first annual Bike Rodeo & Safety Day on Saturday, Sept. 10. This fun, free family event is open to all ages and tailored to children and youth with lots of fun activities designed to set young riders up for safety. We’ll be serving up free hotdogs, and the first 100 children and youth ages 5–15 yrs. will receive a FREE bicycle helmet.
“We are so excited to host this event,” says Parks & Recreation’s Lynn Pegg. “Thanks to our community partners, we’ve got a super fun day lined up with activities and safety and maintenance tips that will help young riders pedal with confidence. Kids can bring their own bike or we will have a select few to borrow to ride the skills course.”
Marshall from Paw Patrol will be assisting the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigators with Kid ID Kits and Fingerprints, and K9 Deputy Kora will stop by for a visit. Thanks to the Weaverville Fire Department there will be a huge Ladder Truck on site demonstrating a water feature, and you might even get wet. WNC Safe Kids will be there to share bike safety information, and kids will have the opportunity to learn bicycle maintenance tips with Daily Cycle AVL. We hope to see you there.








