Start mentally preparing for the ceremonial start to the summer and your first dip in the pool! Buncombe County Recreation Services opens its five outdoor swimming pools on Saturday, May 28.

Pools are open Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday from 1-6 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, pools may close for a short period of time or the entire day. Follow individual pools on Facebook for the latest information on closings.

Cost to swim is $3.00 per day. Visitors are welcome to bring their own chairs and lounging towels.

For many local families, our pool openings signal the beginning of summer and more relaxing days. They’re an affordable, fun, and healthy way to beat the heat. Thanks to their locations, they’re also surrounded by stunning views of our mountains.

Pools are located across the county, ensuring easy access for all kids and families. The facilities are managed through an agreement with Swim Club Management Group of Asheville which oversees maintenance, hires staff, and handles daily operations. Community members can sign up for swim lessons and book private parties on the management group’s website, buncombepool.com.

Sun safety information is available at each location, but pool visitors are reminded to apply water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before putting on a bathing suit and reapply every two hours or after swimming. Other tips to avoid the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays include wearing high-UPF swim shirts, wide brim hats, and wraparound UV-blocking sunglasses. More sun safety tips are available from the American Academy of Dermatology.

Pool Locations

Cane Creek Pool
590 Lower Brush Creek Road
Fletcher, NC 28732
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Erwin Pool
58 Lees Creek Road
Asheville, NC 28806
Like on Facebook

Hominy Valley Pool
25 Twin Lakes Road
Candler, NC 28715
Like on Facebook

North Buncombe Pool
892 Clarks Chapel Road
Weaverville, NC 28787
Like on Facebook

Owen Pool
117 Stone Drive
Swannanoa, NC 28778
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We are shamelessly drumming up attention for our exciting new program at Lake Julian Park. Starting Thursday, March 31, Buncombe County Recreation Services is hosting a drum circle on the last Thursday of every month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The only thing you need to bring is yourself and a drum, and then just let the rhythm and beautiful scenery do the work as you enjoy the beat and comradery of fellow percussionists.

All experience levels are welcome, and registration is not required. If you have any questions, please contact Park Ranger Zach Hickok at (828) 684-0376.

: Every Last Thursday until -Sept. 29 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Park shelter number 2, Lake Julian Park, 26 Lake Julian R

Here at Justus Orchard, we grow thornless Navaho Blackberries that are sweet and easy to pick.

We are open for U Pick Blackberries 7 days a week starting early July, exact dates are subject to weather conditions that year.  Keep reading for some wonderful Blackberry Health facts and picking and storing tips!

Why should you buy fresh blackberries?
Because they are delicious and nutritious!

Blackberries are plump blue/purple berries that can be picked off bushes or trailing vines in the summer months. Although blackberries are good for the whole season, berries picked at the beginning of the season provide the best selection. Later in the season, blackberries can become smaller and less fully developed, but still juicy.

Not only do blackberries have a mouth-watering taste, they’re also appealing to your health. For the best health benefits and the lowest calorie intake, reduce the amount of added sugar and whipped topping. Recent research finds eating berries can stave off the cognitive decline and memory loss with age by enjoying 2 or more servings per week. Along with this health benefit, there are many other benefits to this plump blue/purple berry:

• High Fiber – Blackberries have 37 calories, 9 grams of carbohydrate, and 4 grams of fiber in every ½ cup!
• Loaded with Vitamin C – ½ cup provides 100% of the recommended Vitamin C for an adult, as well as providing a large amount of potassium
• Antioxidant – Blackberries have the highest antioxidant contents per serving of any food tested
  • The content was 5.75 millimoles per serving more than that of other foods, meaning that blackberries may have a positive impact on health, athletic performance, and disease risk.
  • Blackberries contain anthocyanin’s, which gives it it’s glossy, dark color, and this powerful phytonutrient that’s been shown to protect the brain from oxidative stress and may even reduce effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
  • Blackberries have been found to fight against cancers of the GI tract, such as colon cancer.

Hendersonville NC 4th Generation Orchard & Farm

The Justus Family has been growing delicious NC Apples in Hendersonville for more than Four Generations, our Fifth generation is now an active part of Justus Orchard as well.  At our NC Apple Orchard, you will find U Pick or We Pick Apples, Blackberries, and Pumpkins  Whether you choose to U Pick or We Pick, you can sample, mix and match to make sure go home with your favorite apples for eating or cooking.  Review the apple varieties we grow and sell and their usual ripening times here.

We invite you to experience picking your own NC Apples, enjoy a day in the beautiful Western North Carolina Mountains, there is something for everyone and all ages.  Tour the orchard picking apples, stop by the pond to see our ducks, visit the farm animals, let the kids take a ride on the Cow Train through the orchard, visit Apple House for pre-picked Apples, Honey, Jams, Jellies and Preserves and other homemade goodies.  Visit the Bakery which offers our famous homemade Fried Apple Pies, Apple Cider Donuts, Apple Cider, Cider Slushies, Caramels, Apple Bread and more! You can also find fresh Mountain Cabbage, Sweet Potatoes and other local fall vegetables.

We look forward to having you visit one of the oldest U Pick or We Pick Apple Orchards in Western NC.  We guarantee fresh apples, delicious baked good, beautiful views and wonderful hospitality!

Start mentally preparing for the ceremonial start to the summer and your first dip in the pool! Buncombe County Recreation Services opens its five outdoor swimming pools on Saturday, May 28.

Pools are open Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday from 1-6 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, pools may close for a short period of time or the entire day. Follow individual pools on Facebook for the latest information on closings.

Cost to swim is $3.00 per day. Visitors are welcome to bring their own chairs and lounging towels.

For many local families, our pool openings signal the beginning of summer and more relaxing days. They’re an affordable, fun, and healthy way to beat the heat. Thanks to their locations, they’re also surrounded by stunning views of our mountains.

Pools are located across the county, ensuring easy access for all kids and families. The facilities are managed through an agreement with Swim Club Management Group of Asheville which oversees maintenance, hires staff, and handles daily operations. Community members can sign up for swim lessons and book private parties on the management group’s website, buncombepool.com.

Sun safety information is available at each location, but pool visitors are reminded to apply water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before putting on a bathing suit and reapply every two hours or after swimming. Other tips to avoid the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays include wearing high-UPF swim shirts, wide brim hats, and wraparound UV-blocking sunglasses. More sun safety tips are available from the American Academy of Dermatology.

Pool Locations

Cane Creek Pool
590 Lower Brush Creek Road
Fletcher, NC 28732
Like on Facebook

Erwin Pool
58 Lees Creek Road
Asheville, NC 28806
Like on Facebook

Hominy Valley Pool
25 Twin Lakes Road
Candler, NC 28715
Like on Facebook

North Buncombe Pool
892 Clarks Chapel Road
Weaverville, NC 28787
Like on Facebook

Owen Pool
117 Stone Drive
Swannanoa, NC 28778
Like on Facebook

Join us at Eliada Home’s campus for a small group guided walking Farm Tour. Tours last approximately 1 hour. Participants will learn about outdoor and greenhouse growing practices, aquaponics, hydroponics, market gardening, corn maze production, and learn about our Animal Therapy program.

We will be meeting at the PARC building and walking to the different greenhouses, garden site, and a visit with our animals. Reservations required, tickets are $10 each visitor (to be collected at the time of the tour).

We recommend bringing the following: comfortable shoes for walking on pavement and grass, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.  This tour is not handicap accessible and will require participants to climb stairs and walk on uneven ground.

We will begin out tour promptly at the starting time, so please arrive 5-10 min early to allow for parking and check-in. If you are running late or cannot make your tour, please email [email protected] or call #828-348-2287.

All proceeds from ticket sales from your farm tour go directly back to helping the Campus Farm Program grow more food for the children of Eliada!

Click above photo to sign up for a time slot and number of people in your group. Payment for tour will be collected when you arrive. Cards accepted.

This tour is best suited for school age children ages 10+ and adults.

Visiting Asheville soon and looking for a fun way to fill your Friday night? The Asheville Drum Circle is a tradition unique to the area. While locals usually begin the beating of drums, tourists are welcome to join, dance, or simply take in the incredible atmosphere at any point.

If you’re looking for things to do in the area during your stay, this is a must! Here’s everything you should know about the Drum Circle.

The Asheville Drum Circle is a free event that’s open to all.

Music on Main is the annual Friday evening summer concert series at the Hendersonville Visitor Center. Each week, bring a chair, sit back and enjoy free live music! Every concert showcases a different band performing diverse line-up ranging from pop, oldies, rock, to contemporary music. The family-friendly event offers concessions such as hot dogs, ice cream, pretzels and lemonade for sale. Every Friday evening, the Carolina Mountain Car Club hosts a classic car show in conjunction with Music on Main. The car shows are located in front of the Wells Fargo between Barnwell and Caswell Streets, which will be closed to traffic.

Henderson County Parks & recreation hosts a free movie screening and food truck at parks across the county this summer! Food truck opens at 7pm, movie starts at nightfall (approx 8pm). Bring your blanket and chair!

– May 13 | Jackson Park | Encanto
– June 17 | Etowah Park | Clifford the Big Red Dog
– July 15 | East Flat Rock Park | Sing 2
– July 29 | Tuxedo Park | Space Jam
– August 12 | Dana Park | Luca

Think outside the studio and enjoy the quiet of the Park after the gates have closed with this yoga practice for all levels of expertise. The mountains are said to be a natural vortex of spiritual energy, which makes Chimney Rock an ideal setting for connecting your spirit with nature at this outdoor class overlooking Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure.

Multimedia program Dvořák’s Prophecy, based on Joe Horowitz’ book about the path of classical music in America, will be an engaging highlight of the 2022 American Voices Festival.

PERFORMANCE & ARTIST DETAILS
Brevard Sinfonia
Angel Gil-Ordonez, conductor
Soloist TBD

Auditorium seating is reserved.  Lawn seating is general admission.

by William Shakespeare Directed by Dwight Chiles Opening 7/15/2022 – 8/13/2022

“Chalk It Up!” began with 3 children drawing in front of their mother’s store. It has blossomed into one of the most beloved and endearing events that our town has to offer. Celebrating the 26th Annual “Chalk It Up!” in July 2022, this fun annual event brings 150 artists of all ages draw along the sidewalks of downtown Hendersonville, competing for prizes but also just to have a good time! This great contest was designed to promote Hendersonville as “a city with a heart for art.” You can register to participate or just come downtown to see the lovely — but temporary — art.

“Chalk It Up” winners’ prizes are from the generous donations of the downtown merchants as well as area restaurants. Additional financial contributions supply awards, prizes, chalk, insurance, advertisements such as rack cards and flyers, and t-shirts.

Here at Justus Orchard, we grow thornless Navaho Blackberries that are sweet and easy to pick.

We are open for U Pick Blackberries 7 days a week starting early July, exact dates are subject to weather conditions that year.  Keep reading for some wonderful Blackberry Health facts and picking and storing tips!

Why should you buy fresh blackberries?
Because they are delicious and nutritious!

Blackberries are plump blue/purple berries that can be picked off bushes or trailing vines in the summer months. Although blackberries are good for the whole season, berries picked at the beginning of the season provide the best selection. Later in the season, blackberries can become smaller and less fully developed, but still juicy.

Not only do blackberries have a mouth-watering taste, they’re also appealing to your health. For the best health benefits and the lowest calorie intake, reduce the amount of added sugar and whipped topping. Recent research finds eating berries can stave off the cognitive decline and memory loss with age by enjoying 2 or more servings per week. Along with this health benefit, there are many other benefits to this plump blue/purple berry:

• High Fiber – Blackberries have 37 calories, 9 grams of carbohydrate, and 4 grams of fiber in every ½ cup!
• Loaded with Vitamin C – ½ cup provides 100% of the recommended Vitamin C for an adult, as well as providing a large amount of potassium
• Antioxidant – Blackberries have the highest antioxidant contents per serving of any food tested
  • The content was 5.75 millimoles per serving more than that of other foods, meaning that blackberries may have a positive impact on health, athletic performance, and disease risk.
  • Blackberries contain anthocyanin’s, which gives it it’s glossy, dark color, and this powerful phytonutrient that’s been shown to protect the brain from oxidative stress and may even reduce effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
  • Blackberries have been found to fight against cancers of the GI tract, such as colon cancer.

Hendersonville NC 4th Generation Orchard & Farm

The Justus Family has been growing delicious NC Apples in Hendersonville for more than Four Generations, our Fifth generation is now an active part of Justus Orchard as well.  At our NC Apple Orchard, you will find U Pick or We Pick Apples, Blackberries, and Pumpkins  Whether you choose to U Pick or We Pick, you can sample, mix and match to make sure go home with your favorite apples for eating or cooking.  Review the apple varieties we grow and sell and their usual ripening times here.

We invite you to experience picking your own NC Apples, enjoy a day in the beautiful Western North Carolina Mountains, there is something for everyone and all ages.  Tour the orchard picking apples, stop by the pond to see our ducks, visit the farm animals, let the kids take a ride on the Cow Train through the orchard, visit Apple House for pre-picked Apples, Honey, Jams, Jellies and Preserves and other homemade goodies.  Visit the Bakery which offers our famous homemade Fried Apple Pies, Apple Cider Donuts, Apple Cider, Cider Slushies, Caramels, Apple Bread and more! You can also find fresh Mountain Cabbage, Sweet Potatoes and other local fall vegetables.

We look forward to having you visit one of the oldest U Pick or We Pick Apple Orchards in Western NC.  We guarantee fresh apples, delicious baked good, beautiful views and wonderful hospitality!