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.

Saturday, November 25, 2023
Breakfast with Santa
Nov 25 @ 8:00 am
Tryon International Equestrian Center

November 24, 25
December 2, 9, 16, & 23
Seatings: 8, 9:30, & 11:30am

Breakfast with Santa presented by Boyd Automotive will be hosted in the Legends Club select dates from 8am-1pm, with opportunities to interact with Santa himself while enjoying a delicious kid-friendly buffet of breakfast favorites as well as adult favorites. Reservations are required in advance for each time slot.

Adults: $39 | Kids 5-14: $18 | 4&U: FREE

Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Nov 25 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.

Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.

Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Nov 25 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

Asheville Outlets Hosts Wildflower Women’s Market
Nov 25 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Asheville Outlets

Asheville Outlets will host the Wildflower Women’s Market Fall Festival on Saturday, November 25, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The family friendly event is open to the public. Visitors will enjoy music, food trucks and other activities, while browsing a wide selection of unique products, services and art works presented by local women-owned businesses and artisans. For more information, visit ShopAshevilleOutlets.com.

FREE Santa Photos at Asheville Outlets
Nov 25 @ 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Asheville Outlets

Visit Asheville Outlets for FREE photos with Santa sponsored by the North Carolina Arboretum Winter Lights on Saturdays and Sundays, November 25 & 26, December 2 & 3, December 9 & 10, and daily from Friday, December 15 through Saturday, December 23, 2023. Located in the Food Court. Visitors will receive one FREE 4” by 6” photo and digital download of a single image from TapSnap Phototainment (while supplies last). Dates and time may vary, visit ShopAshevilleOutlets.com for additional information.

LAZOOM: CITY COMEDY TOUR
Nov 25 @ 10:00 am
LaZoom Room

Learn Asheville’s history, discover hidden gems, and laugh at LaZoom’s quirky sense of adventure.

  • Guided comedy tour bus of historical Asheville
  • 90-Minutes – tours run daily
  • 15-minute break at Green Man Brewing
  • $39 per person (ages 13+ only)
The Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt
Nov 25 @ 10:00 am
Downtown Hendersonville

The Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt will take you on a fun-filled bear hunt through downtown Hendersonville looking for Peppermint Bear’s lost bear cubs, who are hiding out in the shops, Get your map at the Visitor Center, then head out to find all of the cubs and get a stamp at each location after you’ve found the bear, return completed entry forms to the Visitor Center to be eligible for great prizes!

LAZOOM Tours: Kids’ Comedy Tour
Nov 25 @ 11:00 am
LaZoom Room


Kids’ Comedy Tour: 
Wildly funny, this educational and entertaining tour features the perfect blend of Asheville’s history and kid-centric comedy. Geared specifically toward the 5–12 year old crowd, you’ll explore the town with our famously outlandish tour guides leading the way.

  • Perfect for birthday parties
  • Makes for memorable school field trips
  • Tickets are $27 per person
  • Beverages available for purchase at the LaZoom Room
  • Departs from 76 Biltmore Avenue
Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party
Nov 25 @ 1:00 pm
Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party

Brings the Magic to Fans at Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Through Innovative Technology and Transformative Performances

Disney on Ice Presents Mickey’s Search Party is bringing the magic to guests through dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air.  This adventure delivers compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey when Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party delivers an unforgettable experience at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena from November 22-26, 2023.

  • Disney On Ice Preferred Customers can purchase advance tickets starting today to get the best seats available before tickets go on-sale to the general public on July 25th.  Fans can still sign up to become a Disney On Ice Preferred Customer and get exclusive access to the pre-sale offer code.

Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic.  Journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguel from Disney Pixar’s Coco into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead and discover a vibrantly colorful performance with skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family. Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice palace.  Witness Belle lift into the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice.  Demonstrate the power of teamwork when Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie recruit the Green Army Men for a daring rescue in Andy’s room.  Laugh hysterically as the hilarious pirates’ flip, tumble, and twist on tumble tracks, stilts and more to showcase their talents for Captain Hook. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka.  And make memories with your whole family during Aladdin and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out magical celebration

8 week Teen Improv Class, Ages 13-17
Nov 25 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Story Parlor

TEEN IMPROV 13-17 YEARS OLD:

Step into the spotlight with our Teen Improv class designed exclusively for ages 13-17. In this class, we empower young actors to shine by honing their stage presence and finding the funny. We encourage our students to let go of judgment and embrace the joy of improvisation. Our focus is on boosting confidence, creating genuine connections, and fostering a supportive and creative environment where talents can flourish. Through a series of dynamic “Whose Line is it Anyway” style improv games, teens will have the opportunity to showcase their comedic chops, quick wit, and storytelling skills.

A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Nov 25 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

It’s beginning to look a lot like…you got it! Keep the family tradition going. Same great quality, all new show! Come celebrate the season here on ‘The Rock’ with the always popular A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas! Join in and sing along to some of your favorite holiday tunes like, “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Jingle Bells,” “O Holy Night,” and many more. With an incredible cast

featuring dancers from Pat’s School of Dance and the Flat Rock Playhouse Chorus, there is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season!

Asheville Outlets Annual Tree Lighting
Nov 25 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Asheville Outlets

Asheville Outlets is celebrating the holiday season with a Tree Lighting Ceremony sponsored by Paramount Kia on Saturday, November 25, 2023. Santa will light the tree at 6 p.m. in center circle near Zales Outlets and Kay Jewelers. Prior to the tree lighting, visitors will enjoy festive music from the Enka High School Marching Band, strolling magic, stilt walkers, face painting, a visit from the Polo Bear and Vineyard Vines Whale, and more!

Josh and Ariel from STAR 104.3 will broadcast live from the event from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Immediately following the tree lighting ceremony, visit Santa in the food court for a FREE photo provided by TapSnap Phototainment. Visitors receive a FREE 4” by 6” photo and digital download of a single image. (While supplies last.) Free Santa Photos are sponsored by the North Carolina Arboretum Winter Lights. For more information, visit ShopAshevilleOutlets.com.

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party
Nov 25 @ 5:00 pm
Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party

Brings the Magic to Fans at Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Through Innovative Technology and Transformative Performances

Disney on Ice Presents Mickey’s Search Party is bringing the magic to guests through dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air.  This adventure delivers compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey when Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party delivers an unforgettable experience at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena from November 22-26, 2023.

  • Disney On Ice Preferred Customers can purchase advance tickets starting today to get the best seats available before tickets go on-sale to the general public on July 25th.  Fans can still sign up to become a Disney On Ice Preferred Customer and get exclusive access to the pre-sale offer code.

Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic.  Journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguel from Disney Pixar’s Coco into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead and discover a vibrantly colorful performance with skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family. Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice palace.  Witness Belle lift into the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice.  Demonstrate the power of teamwork when Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie recruit the Green Army Men for a daring rescue in Andy’s room.  Laugh hysterically as the hilarious pirates’ flip, tumble, and twist on tumble tracks, stilts and more to showcase their talents for Captain Hook. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka.  And make memories with your whole family during Aladdin and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out magical celebration

Home for the Holidays: Santa Holiday Tree Lighting
Nov 25 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Downtown Hendersonville

Downtown’s Holiday Street Lighting kicks off the season with Christmas songs, hot drinks and delicious treats from Black Bear Coffee, shopping and a countdown as Santa arrives to light up Main Street. Lights will turn on at 6pm followed by free visits with Santa and carriage rides.

Winter Lights
Nov 25 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
NC Arboretum

 

Join us in celebrating 10 Years of Winter Lights ❅

❅ November 17 through December 31!

 

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise.

Please leave your furry friends at home!

To keep both visitors and pets safe, pets are not permitted at Winter Lights at the Arboretum. Service animals are always welcome.

Winter Lights is The North Carolina Arboretum’s largest annual fundraiser and supports many parts of its mission driven programming.

Presented by:

Comedy at Catawba: Lisa Curry
Nov 25 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Catawba Brewing Company South Slope

LISA CURRY is an internationally touring comedian and TV writer based in Los Angeles. She began her career as part of Second City Hollywood

Every Friday Modelface Comedy brings you the best comedians from all over the country. This weekend we have Lisa Curry from Los Angeles!!!

LISA CURRY is an internationally touring comedian and TV writer based in Los Angeles. She began her career as part of Second City Hollywood’s house improv ensemble, where she performed with some of the most well-respected names in comedy. Her quick mind and sharp wit have landed her jobs as a correspondent, covering a range of events, from the first Women’s March in New York to a cryptocurrency conference in Silicon Valley. In 2017, Lisa was the subject of an episode of the PBS docu-series, ‘Angeleno.’

In 2019, Lisa toured Europe for eight weeks, performing 51 shows in 9 countries with two separate hours of material. On that same tour, she headlined two festivals, recorded her debut album, “Alive For a While” in London and performed for the U.S. troops on an air force base in Jordan. Lisa has worked as a creative on ad campaigns for both Amazon and Comedy Central. She has also written for NBC, TruTV, and Comedy Central, where she was a staff writer on The Jim Jefferies Show. Lisa’s debut comedy album, “Alive for a While” topped the charts following an exclusive release on Sirius XM. Her show, “Long Story Long” airs Thursdays on Sirius XM’s “She’s So Funny” channel. Lisa splits her time between headlining around the world and opening for Jim Jefferies on his theatre tours.

 

Featuring Jess Cooley

ages 18+

doors at 6:30pm, show at 7pm

LAZOOM Tours: GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR
Nov 25 @ 7:00 pm
LaZoom Room


GHOST COMEDY BUS TOUR

Grab a local beer, crucifix and a rubber chicken* —You might survive this hour long hilarious haunted ghost tour of Asheville.

  • Guided comedy bus tour of Haunted Asheville
  • 60 minutes; tours run nightly after dark
  • $33 per person (Ages 17+ only)
  • Departs from 76 Biltmore Avenue

*Legal Note: Crucifix not required to board the bus; we do not condone exorcisms, chickens, rubber, or any combination of the three.

Party Dawgs, A Downtown Comedy Showcase
Nov 25 @ 7:00 pm

Every Saturday Modelface Comedy brings you the best comedians from all over the country. Party Dawgs comedy features the best local comics and our favorites from all over.

Hosted by Clay Jones

Featuring Brandi Agustus, Julia Macias and more!

ages 18+
doors at 6:30, show at 7pm

A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Nov 25 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

It’s beginning to look a lot like…you got it! Keep the family tradition going. Same great quality, all new show! Come celebrate the season here on ‘The Rock’ with the always popular A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas! Join in and sing along to some of your favorite holiday tunes like, “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Jingle Bells,” “O Holy Night,” and many more. With an incredible cast

featuring dancers from Pat’s School of Dance and the Flat Rock Playhouse Chorus, there is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season!

Sunday, November 26, 2023
Asheville Outlets Hosts Venardos Circus November 2 -19, 2023
Nov 26 all-day
Asheville Outlets

Asheville Outlets will again host the Venardos Circus, a Broadway-style animal-free circus, with its all-new “Let’s Build a Dream” Tour from November 2-19, 2023. This season the wondrous Venardos Circus cast will take audiences on a journey under the big top as it unveils a fresh, magical, and all-new experience for fans. The show features an original score, amazing performers, stunning lighting, and dazzling costumes. The 2023 Venardos Circus is traveling with a new, custom-crafted, Italian-made red-and-white striped tent that offers expanded seating around a central stage for an immersive experience.

Additionally, Venardos Circus will host a special Sensory Friendly Performance on Saturday, November 4 at 11am. General Admission tickets start at $16.95 for youth under age 12 and $27.95 for adults. For schedules and more information, please visit VenardosCircus.com or ShopAshevilleOutlets.com.

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime and Evening
Nov 26 all-day
Biltmore Estate

Immerse Yourself in the Magic

Experience Christmas at Biltmore, when America’s Largest Home®, Antler Hill Village, and the entire estate are beautifully bedecked for the holidays.

NEW THIS YEAR: all Biltmore House tickets include FREE next-day grounds access. Because more time to explore means more memories made. Select ticket types also include Italian Renaissance Alive.

Antler Hill Village Illumination

Included with admission—Bask in the glow of a glittering cascade of lights illuminating trees, buildings, and the pathways that connect the unique shops, restaurants, and Winery in Antler Hill Village. Experience this must-see part of the Christmas at Biltmore tradition, which includes festive displays adorning Ciao! From Italy and our relaxing Winery, where complimentary tastings await.

Christmas Daytime Celebration

November 3, 2023–January 7, 2024

A daytime visit to Biltmore is a feast for the senses, featuring fragrant wreaths, glittering garland, and the sparkle of thousands of ornaments from Biltmore House to Antler Hill Village! Wrap yourself in the magic of this most beloved of holiday traditions: Christmas at Biltmore.

NEW THIS YEAR:
All Biltmore House tickets include FREE next-day grounds access!
Select ticket options also include Italian Renaissance Alive.

BUY ONLINE & SAVERight Arrow

Plan now for Christmas at Biltmore 2024! View Ticket Options.

Candlelight Christmas Evenings

An Unforgettable Holiday Evening

November 3, 2023–January 6, 2024

A majestic Norway spruce and pathway luminaries welcome you to America’s Largest Home®. Inside, thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candles, fireplaces, and twinkle lights. The magic continues in Antler Hill Village, which is festooned with glittering lights, ornaments, and displays.

NEW THIS YEAR:
All Biltmore House tickets include FREE next-day grounds access!
Select ticket options also include Italian Renaissance Alive.

BUY TICKETSRight Arrow

Plan now for Candlelight Christmas Evenings 2024! View Ticket Options.

Ice Skating
Nov 26 all-day
Tryon International Equestrian Center

Twirl and glide into the holidays with the Ice Skating Rink in the renowned Tryon Stadium! Whether you’re holding hands with a special someone, skating side by side with friends, or helping a child take their first wobbly steps on the ice, the experience is sure to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Twirl and glide into the holidays with the Ice Skating Rink in the renowned Tryon Stadium! Themed skates, live music and more will make each experience special.

Reservations include one hour of skating time, with skate rentals included. Outside skates are permitted as well. Open to ages 4 and up. Reserve skating time slots in advance online, or purchase at the gate as available.

Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland Drive-Thru Light Show
Nov 26 all-day
Tryon International Equestrian Center

Daily | November 17-January 1

Load up your vehicle with friends and family and take a cruise through the fan-favorite Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland Drive-Thru Light Show! Featuring hundreds of thousands of dazzling lights dancing to the tune of holiday classics on your car radio, this immersive experience has become a holiday tradition for many. Tickets are per carload, available online or at the gate.

Tweetsie Christmas
Nov 26 all-day
Tweetsie Railroad

Celebrate the holiday season as Tweetsie Railroad transforms into a winter wonderland for Tweetsie Christmas on November 24, 25, 26, December 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, & 30!

Closed Thanksgiving Eve, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.

Buy Tickets Now

Tweetsie Christmas offers holiday activities the whole family will love, including a 20-minute nighttime train ride in an open-air car behind one of the park’s historic steam locomotives on a three-mile route lined with over 1 million Christmas lights, a heartwarming, toe-tapping, live Christmas variety show, kid-friendly amusement rides, meetings with Santa in his Gingerbread House filled with candied furnishings, and roasting s’mores over an outdoor fire.

United Way’s Holiday Book Drive
Nov 26 all-day
online

We need your help and the help of your network to make this holiday drive as successful as possible in putting new books into the hands of Buncombe County elementary and middle school students during the holiday break.

What better way to spread holiday cheer than by donating books? Imagine the joy on a child’s face when they receive a brand-new book. It’s like sprinkling a little bit of magic into their lives!

We’ve partnered with over a dozen local organizations serving K-12 students throughout the county. They’re eagerly waiting for book drop-offs like kids waiting for the first snowfall! ❄️

You can make a positive impact right now by donating directly using the button below, or why not turn giving back into an outing?

Holiday Book Drive 2023 (givebutter.com)

Visit the Barnes & Noble on Tunnel Road at the Asheville Mall to shop in-store and donate them on the spot.

Youth Garden Grant
Nov 26 all-day
online

In early 2024, 50 organizations will be awarded $500 in funding and a collection of gardening supplies for their youth garden program.

Since 1982, the Youth Garden Grant has supported school and youth educational garden projects that enhance the quality of life for youth and their communities.

In early 2024, fifty organizations will be awarded $500 in funding and a collection of gardening supplies for their youth garden program.

¡Pueden aplicar a los programas en español! Para ver esta oportunidad de subvención en español, visite nuestra página web en español.

Eligibility

Any organization in the United States or US Territories planning a new or improving an existing garden program that serves at least 15 youth between the ages of 0 and 18 is eligible to apply.

KidsGardening grantees from any 2022 or 2023 grant program (Budding Botanist, GroMoreGood Grassroots, Lots of Compassion, and Little Seeds Pollinator Pals) and previous Youth Garden winners from any year are not eligible.

Organizations must:

  • Support, work with, or serve communities with a majority of individuals that are under-resourced (systematically denied resources and opportunities based on race, gender, ethnicity, income level, abilities, geographic location, etc., or currently experiencing hardship such as a natural disaster, etc.)
  • Have fifteen or more youth participate in the garden program.
  • Have received less than $10,000 in grants for the garden program during 2022 and 2023 combined.
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Nov 26 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.

Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.

Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Nov 26 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Join us on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and see the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. “Monarchs and Milkweed” explores how very survival of these majestic creatures has been shaped over time by one another, traveling through the seasons of a calendar year and revealing how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive migration that crosses a continent.

8 week Kids Improv Class, Ages 5-8
Nov 26 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Story Parlor

KIDS IMPROV 5-8 YEARS OLD:

This class is tailored for kids aged 5-8 and is a blend of engaging theater games and skill-building activities that nurture young imaginations. Young learners will have a chance to explore body movement, vocal exercises, and unleash their creativity through interactive improv games. This class focuses on group games and building connections with others by engaging in play.

FREE Santa Photos at Asheville Outlets
Nov 26 @ 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Asheville Outlets

Visit Asheville Outlets for FREE photos with Santa sponsored by the North Carolina Arboretum Winter Lights on Saturdays and Sundays, November 25 & 26, December 2 & 3, December 9 & 10, and daily from Friday, December 15 through Saturday, December 23, 2023. Located in the Food Court. Visitors will receive one FREE 4” by 6” photo and digital download of a single image from TapSnap Phototainment (while supplies last). Dates and time may vary, visit ShopAshevilleOutlets.com for additional information.