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.

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Friday, July 5, 2024
Drum Circle
Jul 5 @ 5:00 pm – 9:45 pm
Pritchard Park

The beats of the Friday Night Drum Circle have been rocking Pritchard Park for decades and the circle has become so popular that it is featured in magazines and TV commercials.

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Categories: Community Music Outdoors
First Friday at Russell | Armstrong Gallery
Jul 5 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Russell | Armstrong Gallery

Are you in town over the holiday weekend? Join us Friday July 5th from 5 – 8 PM to kick off our summer of First Fridays! The gallery will be open late, showing new work by Jeremy Russell and Alicia Armstrong, and serving local wine & select NA beverages. We hope to see you there!

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Categories: Art & Craft Community Nightlife
First Friday at Russell | Armstrong Gallery
Jul 5 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Russell | Armstrong Gallery

Looking for something to do over the holiday weekend? Join Russell | Armstrong Gallery, located in Downtown Asheville, Friday July 5th from 5 – 8 PM to kick off our summer of First Fridays! The gallery will be open late, showing new work by Jeremy Russell and Alicia Armstrong, and serving local wine and select NA beverages. We hope to see you there!

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Categories: Art & Craft Nightlife
Juan Holladay + ResoNate + Isa Ibn Wali
Jul 5 @ 5:00 pm – Jul 6 @ 12:00 am
The Getaway River Bar

FOMO Collective presents – Juan Holladay + Resonate + Isa Ibn Wali Featuring DJ Sporelax Visuals by Littlest_Hex

Tickets will be $10 at the door, there is NO presale. This event is 21+

An evening of rap, R&B, and artistry! On Friday July 5th visit our art market at The Getaway on the River Bar accompanied by live painters, a visual installations, and smooth, hard hitting music.Art vendor spaces available – message [email protected] or @fomomusicandart for sign up and more information.

Musicians include locals –
Juan Holladay(@juanholladay) https://www.youtube.com/@juanholladay
Isa Ibn Wali – (@isawhitaker) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBcF8q0ay8DxOn9QEfynJGg
ResoNate. – (@resonate_nc) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfkm_I5vJEOhEF4nPEf3-JQ?view_as=subscriber.

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Categories: Music
Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series: Drum Circle
Jul 5 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Pritchard Park

The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

Drum Circle

The Asheville Downtown Association is proud to facilitate the return of Asheville’s iconic Drum Circle. Feel the rhythm and join the beat as the community comes together for an evening of drumming, dancing, and camaraderie.

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Categories: Family Fun Music Outdoors
The Moppets: The Winter’s Tale
Jul 5 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre
The Moppets present Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale”
A jealous king, an exiled princess, a living statue… and a whole bunch of bears?!? Don’t miss Shakespeare’s tragically comedic and comically tragic “The Winter’s Tale” in its debut on the Moppets stage!
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Categories: Family Fun Outdoors Theatre
ArborEvenings
Jul 5 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
NC Arboretum
Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Thursdays and most Fridays through September 26, 2024 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.

There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.

Get more information here. 

 

Due to existing event bookings, ArborEvenings will not take place on Friday July 19, Friday July 26, Friday September 20th, and Friday September 27th.  Please note, scheduled performances are subject to change.

Please note: ArborEvenings is a rain or shine event. In the event of rain, ArborEvenings will relocate indoors to the Baker Visitor Center. 

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Categories: Outdoors
Air Conditioning, a COOL comedy showcase
Jul 5 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Catawba Brewing Company South Slope Asheville

Every Friday Modelface Comedy brings you the best comedians from all over the country. This week it’s a special comedy showcase at Catawba Brewing!!!

A killer lineup of local favorites and nationally touring comedians and Catawba Brewing’s award winning craft beer is the recipe for a perfect night! Especially when you add in some ice cold air conditioning

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

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Categories: Comedy
Comedy at Catawba: Clark Jones
Jul 5 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Catawba Brewing Company South Slope

Every Friday Modelface Comedy brings you the best comedians from all over the country! This Friday we have Clark Jones from Chicago!

Clark Jones has been listed as one of the top 11 comedians by BET.com and his standup has appeared on HBO’s “Crashing”, “Night Train with Wyatt Cenac” on Starz, and the “2 Dope Queens” podcast. While in New York he has hosted the lauded Comedy at the Knitting Factory, been named one of Brooklyn’s 50 funniest people, and performed in sketches for Comedy Central and Amanda Seales’ popular Get Your Life web series. Clark was also a recurring character on FOX NFL Sunday’s pregame show and recorded stand-up on season 9 of Comedy Central’s “Feature” series.

His debut album “First of All” reached the top spot in its week’s release and is streaming on all networks and he recently wrote on season 1 of “Run the World” on the Starz network.

ages 18+

doors at 6:30pm show at 7pm

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Categories: Comedy
Greenville Drive vs. Asheville Tourists
Jul 5 @ 7:05 pm
Fluor Field

Greenville Drive vs. Asheville Tourists

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Categories: Sports
Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps
Jul 5 @ 7:30 pm
Asheville Community Theatre

Prepare yourself for a whirlwind adventure of suspense and comedy with Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps. This fast-paced play is a unique adaptation of the 1935 classic Hitchcock thriller film, infused with a healthy dose of Monty Python-style humor. The story revolves around the central character, Richard Hannay, who inadvertently gets tangled in a mysterious web of spies, murder, and love. Remarkably, the entire riveting narrative unfolds through the talents of just four actors, who collectively portray over 150 characters, masterfully switching roles with lightning speed. Brimming with clever references to Hitchcock’s filmography, wry British humor, and ingeniously crafted theatrical inventiveness, The 39 Steps promises a rollicking evening of entertainment that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats.

A talkback with the cast & crew of The 39 Steps will be held following the performances on June 23rd and 30th.

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Categories: Comedy Theatre
ALMOST, MAINE
Jul 5 @ 7:30 pm
Parkway Playhouse

ALMOST, MAINE

by John Cariani

Directed by Michael Lilly

One night, a place that’s not a place, and six actors collide for this heartwarming play. A collection of vignettes, Almost, Maine shows us a story of falling in and out of love, bearing through life, and the magic of the unknown. Northern lights shine on these nine short plays and show us the beauty of Almost.

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Categories: Theatre
Almost, Maine!
Jul 5 @ 7:30 pm
Parkway Playhouse

Written by John Cariani
Directed by Michael Lilly

One night, a place that’s not a place, and six actors collide for this heartwarming play. A collection of vignettes, Almost, Maine shows us a story of falling in and out of love, bearing through life, and the magic of the unknown. Northern lights shine on these nine short plays and show us the beauty of Almost.

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Categories: Theatre
Dvořák Symphony No. 6
Jul 5 @ 7:30 pm
Brevard Music Center

Brevard Sinfonia
JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Lara Downes, piano

GEORGE ENESCU Romanian Rhapsody No. 1
QUINN MASON Piano Concerto (world premiere)
ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 6

Tickets go on sale to the general public on May 1. To receive early access to tickets for this event, become a donor today! Donor presale begins March 25.

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Categories: Music
OUTPOST: The Pearl Snap Prophets and Chris McGinnis
Jul 5 @ 7:30 pm
The Outpost
Doors Open: 6:30 PM
– ALL AGES
– STANDING ROOM ONLY
– RAIN OR SHINE
 

Jack Marion and The Pearl Snap Prophets bring a youthful-exuberance and high-country swagger to the doorsteps of modern country music. The North Carolina-based band has spent the past 6 years in honky-tonks, bars, and mountain roadhouses, collecting fodder for songs along the way. There are songs about living; written in the shadows of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They are straight-from-the-hip and straight-from-the heart. No bull-honky. All truth. But they are just as catchy as any songwriting-factory-formed mega hit that will ever curse your ear.

“If young country-based bands like Jack Marion and The Pearl Snap Prophets keep raising the standards of what songs can be, maybe we can turn the tides.”- NC Music Magazine

Opening set by Chris McGinnis

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Categories: Music
Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses Henry IV Parts 1 + 2
Jul 5 @ 7:30 pm
Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre

The Montford Park Players is pleased to announce auditions for its 52nd  Season: 

Muse of Fire: Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses

Jason Williams, Artistic Director

5/10/2024 5/24/2024   Edward III, directed by Mandy Bean
5/31/2024 6/23/2024   Richard II, directed by Jason Williams
6/28/2024 7/21/2024   Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, directed by Dr. George Brown, Callista Brown and Elizabeth DeVault
7/26/2024 8/25/2024   Henry V, directed by David Doersch
8/30/2024 9/22/2024  Henry VI Parts 1, 2 & 3, directed by Glenna Grant, Ariel Robinson and Adam Kampouris
9/27/2024 10/27/2024 Richard III, directed by Kristi DeVille

Conveniently located in the heart of the Historic Montford District of Asheville, North Carolina, the Outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre is easy to get to and accessible from I-240 and I-26. And, it’s just a short drive down Montford Avenue from downtown.

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Categories: Art & Craft Family Fun Outdoors Theatre
Empire Strikes Brass
Jul 5 @ 8:00 pm
Salvage Station
​Asheville, NC-based BrassFunkRock band Empire Strikes Brass has a lot to say with a big sound.  Their brand new 11/11/19 release is a 10-track album entitled “Brassterpiece Theatre” and it lives up to its name.  Chock-full of serious groove from a thumping rhythm section highlighted by lush horn arrangements played by a thick horn section, this 2nd studio album is a funktacular dive into the band’s compositional roots as well as its’ creative and collaborative soul.  There’s a lot of depth in these original tunes that speak volumes to ESB’s evolution.

Founded in 2012, ESB has grown from a party band of friends playing New Orleans-originated or inspired second-line and funk tunes with elements of rock and jam.  Now, it consists of a collective of players, singers, songwriters, and producers who have found an original sound that fuses their individual musical influences with fresh ideas while still holding true to their foundation. 

 Featuring rich group and lead vocals from several members including Grammy Award-winning artist Debrissa McKinney (Secret Agent 23 Skidoo), keyboardist/producer Lenny Pettinelli, and guitarist Kelly Hannah, ESB has played over 300 shows all over the country.  Since their conception, they have been a constant fixture at various festivals throughout the east coast.  The band has had the pleasure of having Warren Haynes (Allman Bros. Band and Gov’t Mule) sit in with them at New Mountain Amphitheater in Asheville, NC and the honor of performing at the Jazz and Heritage Festival celebrating the life of Dizzy Gillespie in his hometown of Cheraw, SC for the past 6 years in a row.  Empire has also co-billed with some of the biggest names in funk and soul including Mavis Staples, Dr. John, and Lettuce as well as a recent co-bill in November of 2019 at Woodlands Festival with jam band giants Umphrey’s McGee.  ESB is also announced to play 2 huge shows at the US Cellular Center in Asheville with Umphrey’s and Billy Strings. 

 Paul Juhl, ESB’s founder and saxophonist, put together a crew of characters that have a rich and diverse musical background.  The horn players including JP Furnas (bass/tuba/trombone), Alex Bradley (trumpet), Kyle Snuffer (trombone/sax), Debrissa McKinney (sax) and Juhl all have a deep love of many styles including funk, jazz, R&B, outlaw country, hip hop, and almost everything else!  In May of 2019, Empire Strikes Brass horns played 3 performances at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado – 2 shows with psy-trance icon Shpongle and 1 show with friends and livetronica legends Papadosio.   Over the years, the horns have also sat in with such artists as The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Galactic, Rubblebucket, The Big Something, and many others.  Other notable side projects and performances from members include Lenny Pettinelli recording and performing with Jazz is Phsh – and instrumental tribute to the music of Phish founded by the Chase Brothers featuring Grammy Award-winning saxophonists Jeff Coffin (Bela Fleck, Dave Matthews Band) and Chris Bullock of Snarky Puppy as well as legendary jazz trumpeter Michael Ray (Sun Ra, Cosmic Krewe) and many other heavy hitters.  Paul Juhl has performed with John Oates (Hall and Oates) at MerleFest.  In addition to her work with Skidoo, Debrissa McKinney has performed with Karl Denson and George Clinton.  Alex Bradley, Kyle Snuffer, Debrissa & Juhl have sat in with Andy Frasco.  Furnas, Juhl, and Bradley were also featured playing horns on the live album compilation from world-renowned artists Beats Antique entitled “Creature Carnival” released in 2015.  

 When Empire Strikes Brass comes together, whether live or in the studio, the sound is undeniably strong and solid.  The band’s debut album was recorded at Asheville’s own renowned Echo Mountain Recording Studio was released in 2017.  Entitled “Theme For A Celebration”, it was tapped as one of the year’s top 100 releases by WNCW 88.7 radio.  ESB’s newest release “Brassterpiece Theatre”, also recorded at Echo, is a fierce followup and both albums are available through all major music distribution streaming, sales and listening platforms.  Look for the band on the road and at festivals in a town near you!!

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Categories: Music
SCYTHIAN
Jul 5 @ 8:00 pm
The Grey Eagle
Doors Open: 7:00 PM
ALL AGES
STANDING ROOM ONLY

SCYTHIAN
Washington DC-based Scythian (sith-ee-yin) began over 12 years ago as a bunch of college buddies playing Celtic music in the streets and has grown to be a headliner on the US Celtic Festival Circuit as well as a name in the Bluegrass/Americana Festival Circuit. They found that their brand of high-energy folk music found a resonance that led The Washington Post to state: “Scythian’s enthusiasm is contagious, and shows seem to end with everyone dancing, jumping around or hoisting glasses.”

For over 12 years they have found success as an independent band and have played over 1,300 shows all over the united states, Europe, Canada and as far aways as Australia.

Founded by brothers Alexander and Danylo Fedoryka who are first-generation sons of Ukrainian immigrants, Scythian from the start has been a search and love for the “old time, good time music” of many cultures. They were inspired by a tale told by their 92-year-old grandmother of a roving fiddler who came into her farming village every six months or so. Once he was spotted, messengers were sent to all the outlying fields and mills and worked ceased; everyone gathered in the barn where they danced all night and danced their cares away. This spirit is what has motivated Scythian from its inception and their success as an independent band is due largely to their finding a resonance of soul amongst kindred spirits that span all ages and races. This spirit took them from the streets to playing for the US president on St. Patrick’s Day and its the enthusiastic response they receive that has made each of their 1,300+ shows unique.

THE calling card of Scythian is their ability to engage their audience no matter the venue or circumstance and truly every Scythian shows ends with people dancing, smiling and covered with sweat. This is best summed up by The Camel-City Dispatch  (Winston-Salem, North Carolina): “[Scythian gives] no quarter in their quest to entertain and bring a joy to their music that gives it an irony-free, wide open feel of manic possibility. The playing is technically brilliant, but it is the energy that carries the day.”

STRANGER AND PILGRIM

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Categories: Music
Comedy at Catawba: Clark Jones
Jul 5 @ 9:00 pm
Catawba Brewing Company South Slope

Every Friday Modelface Comedy brings you the best comedians from all over the country! This Friday we have Clark Jones from Chicago!

Clark Jones has been listed as one of the top 11 comedians by BET.com and his standup has appeared on HBO’s “Crashing”, “Night Train with Wyatt Cenac” on Starz, and the “2 Dope Queens” podcast. While in New York he has hosted the lauded Comedy at the Knitting Factory, been named one of Brooklyn’s 50 funniest people, and performed in sketches for Comedy Central and Amanda Seales’ popular Get Your Life web series. Clark was also a recurring character on FOX NFL Sunday’s pregame show and recorded stand-up on season 9 of Comedy Central’s “Feature” series.

His debut album “First of All” reached the top spot in its week’s release and is streaming on all networks and he recently wrote on season 1 of “Run the World” on the Starz network.

ages 18+

doors at 8:45pm show at 9:15pm

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Categories: Comedy
Saturday, July 6, 2024
Arts Discounts Page
Jul 6 all-day
online w/ ArtsAVL
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Categories: Art & Craft
BREWERY TOURS
Jul 6 all-day
Sierra Nevada Brewing

Whether you’re just getting into craft beer or we’re on your brewery bucket list, a Mills River tour is for you — so we recommend you reserve a spot! Our interactive tours offer everything from hop handling to nature hikes to — what you really came for — beer sampling.

Space on each tour is limited, and reservations are strongly encouraged. Make yours below. Looking to book a private tour? Fill out the private tour form, and we’ll get it organized. See you soon!

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Categories: Food & Drink Tours
Calling All Artists
Jul 6 all-day
Artists Collective | Spartanburg

Calling All Artists in SC, NC, GA, TN, & VA
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Categories: Art & Craft
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Free Books for Children ages 0-5
Jul 6 all-day
online w/ Literacy Together

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library impacts the pre­-literacy skills and school readiness of children under the age of 5 in Buncombe County. The program mails a new, free, age-appropriate book to registered children each month until they turn five years old. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library creates a home library of up to 60 books and instills a love of books and reading from an early age. If you have any questions about the program, please send an email to [email protected].

A national panel of educators selects the Imagination Library titles, which include: The Little Engine that Could, Last Stop on Market Street, Violet the Pilot, As an Oak Tree Grows, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Llama Llama Red Pajama, Look Out Kindergarten, here I come, and many more (take a look at all the titles).

Register your child now!

Program Launch and Expansions

Literacy Together became a Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library affiliate in November 2015 with support from the Buncombe Partnership for Children. Through this program, registered children in Buncombe County receive a free book in the mail each month. Their parents also have the opportunity to attend workshops to learn how to build their children’s early literacy skills. Parents in need of literacy assistance are encouraged to receive tutoring through Literacy Together’s adult programming.

The program served 200 children during the 2015/16 fiscal year. The program expanded to serve 400 children in July 2016, and 600 in August 2017. In July 2018, capacity increased to 1,900 thanks to a special allocation in the North Carolina state budget. We’re now serving 4,600 kids in Buncombe County.  

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Categories: Bookclubs Community Education Family Fun
Fall for Art, Open Studio Tour – 2024 Call for Artists
Jul 6 all-day
Art Place Studios Gallery
THE ART LEAGUE  hosts exhibits of throughout the year at Art Place Gallery, the Henderson County Library and other venues throughout the county.  Some exhibits are open only to members.  Each call will include information on eligibility.  The on-line registration for each call will require that you enter your artwork title, size, and price.  You will need to enter an artwork category and these may vary for each call for artists.  You will also pay on-line via credit card.  Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the registration screens and hit submit.  You will receive a confirmation email.  If you do not receive a confirmation email, you are not registered for the call.

 

About the Art League of Henderson County

The Art League of Henderson County is – like art itself – for everyone, and our membership is open to both artists and art lovers. Since its founding in 1972, members of the Art League have believed in the value of the visual arts to our community. The Art League offers diverse opportunities to enrich the cultural life of Henderson County through public programs and art projects throughout the year.

For artists, the League provides opportunities to exhibit their art and improve their skills. These include workshops, artist open studio tours, lectures and demonstrations.  Program events offer an opportunity for members and visitors to interact and learn.  Small, informal groups gather to share ideas, offer advice, and build camaraderie. Field trips to museums and special exhibits are scheduled to a variety of venues.

Adult classes and workshops, open to the public, are offered in a variety of two- and three-dimensional media. Our experienced instructors are experts in their fields, and limits on class size permit ample individual attention to students.

The annual Fabulous Fakes exhibit in April provides an opportunity for artists to create their own fun versions of master works which are exhibited in a variety of gallery venues. Throughout the year, the Henderson County Library hosts exhibits of member works, often featuring a theme or an art medium.

Every spring, the League’s ArtScape Project hangs a new collection of colorful banners in downtown Hendersonville. ArtScape is supported by sponsors from local businesses, artists, and art lovers.  A brochure is available at the Henderson County Visitor Center and in locations around town. Throughout the year, visitors are invited to take a walking tour of this public showcase for our talented artists.

October provides an opportunity to see artists at work and learn about their inspiration and some of their secrets at the Art League’s Open Studio Weekend Tour.  Brochures and maps are available at the Visitor Center for this popular event.

The Art League of Henderson County continues to be committed to the vital role that the arts play in building a strong, vibrant, and diverse community.

View Open Calls View Exhibit Guidelines
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Categories: Art & Craft
Farm Beginnings® Program: Farmer program applications open
Jul 6 all-day
Organic Growers School

Farm Beginnings® is training the next generation of farmers in the many skills required to start and expand a successful farm business: passion, clear goals, production experience, financial and marketing know-how, and more.

Farm Beginnings® will help you build these skills through one year of farmer-led training, mentoring, and networking. We support individuals in clarifying their goals and strengths, developing agricultural skills, and growing profitable, equitable, and ecologically sound farm businesses.

The OGS Approach

Guided by our commitment to social justice, our programming is led by farmers and mentors active in food, farming, or social justice. By empowering people with skills, knowledge, and access to resources, together we can build a more diverse, equitable food system that enriches the environment and creates a thriving food and farming community.

We use a holistic management frame, farmer-led classroom sessions, on-farm tours, mentoring, and an extensive farmer network. The topics of equity and justice in the food systems are woven into the curriculum, including examples of realistic approaches within the scope of your business models.

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

What does Farm Beginnings® include?

The 200+ hr, year-long program consists of:

  • Training on holistic management, farm business, marketing & financial planning

  • Sessions taught by regional, experienced farmers

  • One-year WNC CRAFT Farmer Network membership

  • Completing and presenting an individualized farm plan

  • Access to field days with regional partners

  • Entry to ASAP’s Business of Farming Conference

  • Entry to OGS’s Spring Conference

  • 15 hr mentorship with an experienced farmer mentor

View a sample of the full course schedule here.

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Categories: Education Garden Garden Events
Grant Center Swimming Pool
Jul 6 all-day
Grant Center Pool

Swimming Pools

Asheville Parks & Recreation’s public pools provide safe and affordable outdoor summer fun for all ages. For info about pool schedules, please call 828-348-4770 or visit ashevillecitypools.com.

Malvern Hills Park’s 90 year-old outdoor pool will not open this summer. While we were able to keep the facility operational through last summer, the pool can no longer be repaired to safely meet the needs of our community. For more, read this article.

Admission

  • Individual – $3 per session
  • Individual Season Pass – $100
  • Family Season Pass – $150 (up to four individuals)

Locations

Events

  • Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts hundreds of free and low-cost activities, programs, and events each month. Check out the latest program guide.

  • Pools will open Saturday, May 25!

    Dates of Operation:
    Grant Center Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Sunday, August 11th
    Recreation Park Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Monday, September 2nd, weekends only from
    August 12th through September 2nd

    Pools open weekends only until June 10th, with the exception of Monday, May 27!

    Hours of Operation June 10 through August 11:
    Monday through Friday – 12:00pm-6:00pm
    Saturday – 11:00am-6:00pm
    Sunday – 1:00pm-6:00pm

    Cost is $3 per person per day

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Categories: Community Family Fun Outdoors
Haunted History + Murder MYstery Tour
Jul 6 all-day
Gray Line Trolley Tours of Asheville

Sit back if you dare as we illuminate Asheville’s darkest history with astonishing stories of spirits & spies, ghosts & goblins, hauntings & hoodlums and mountain-made murder & mayhem.

Hear stories of . . .

  The legendary PINK LADY at the Grove Park Inn
  The GHOST of Church Street
  The 1936 UNSOLVED MURDER that shook Asheville
  The CHILD SPIRITS at the haunted hospital
  The architect walled into his own church!
  The KILLING SPREE of 1906
  NAZI AGENTS based in Asheville
  ARSON at hospital that claimed Zelda Fitzgerald

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Categories: Tours
Hey Asheville: City Comedy Tour • Ages 13+ Only
Jul 6 all-day
LaZoom Room Bar & Gorilla

Come enjoy our most popular Asheville tour!

Duration

1 hour and 30 minutes

About

Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties are not permitted on this tour. The Fender Bender Bus is bachelorette/bachelor friendly!

Historical and hysterical, The Hey Asheville tour features outrageously entertaining tour guides, outlandish comedy skits complete with special appearances and loads of Asheville information. You’ll get to see the best of downtown Asheville and the rarely seen but stunningly beautiful Montford neighborhood, not to mention the burgeoning River Arts District! You’ve never had a ride like this. It’s like a vaudeville show on wheels!

Find out what makes Asheville so unique on LaZoom’s City Comedy Tour. It’s the perfect mix of history, comedy, and entertainment. Our guides are trained professional actors working with an original script. It’s like a theatre on wheels! The tour highlights downtown Asheville, historic neighborhoods, the South Slope, and the River Arts District.

Age Restrictions

13 and up. No exceptions.

Stops

10 minute beer & bathroom break at Green Man Brewery

What’s Included

Guided tour of Asheville on a Purple Bus
Funny actors, fun bits
Actual History about Asheville
Green Man Brewery Stop

What’s Not Included

Beer/Wine (Must be purchased from LaZoom or the Brewery Stop)
Cash! You’ll want to tip the guides for changing your life for the better.

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Categories: Comedy Food & Drink Tours
Hop-on/Hop-off SIGHTSEEING TOUR
Jul 6 all-day
Asheville Area

There is no better way to DISCOVER and EXPLORE Asheville!  Hop-on board one of Gray Line’s nostalgic trolleys for a fully narrated day tour, highlighting the history, homes, hang-outs and hot spots of this “city of surprises.”

Tour Highlights include  .  .  .  Downtown Asheville  |  Montford Historic District  |  The Grove Park Inn and Grove Park Historic District  |  Thomas Wolfe District  |  Pack Square and Asheville Art Museum  |  Grove Arcade  |  River Arts District  |  Biltmore Village

Hop-On and hear the story of a city rich in architecture, history and the arts  . . .

Hop-Off and experience its eclectic shops and galleries; its world class culinary and craft brew scenes.

Tour Duration:  The complete tour (one loop) lasts approximately 90 to 100 minutes.  There is an additional 15 minute stop at the Asheville Visitor Center.  The Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour ticket is valid for TWO consecutive days.

Departure Points: Join the Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour at any of the 10 stops.  If you’re driving in to join the tour, Stop 1, the Asheville Visitor Center may be your best option.  The Visitor Center, located at 36 Montford Ave. just off I-240 at Exit 4C, offers free parking (on a first come-first served basis) and restrooms. The Asheville Visitor Center is the ONLY place to join the Overview Tour.

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Categories: Tours
Mile High Swinging Bridge
Jul 6 all-day
Grandfather Mountain

One of the top highlights and memories of visits to Grandfather Mountain nature park is walking across the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Since 1952, visitors have “oohed” and “aahed” at the bridge’s 360-degree panoramic views. America’s highest suspension footbridge gives easy access to the spectacular views atop Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak, elevation 5,305 feet.

The 228-foot suspension bridge spans an 80-foot chasm at more than one mile in elevation (hence the name!). To reach the Mile High Swinging Bridge, drive the two-mile, winding scenic road up the mountain to the summit parking area by the Top Shop. Climb 50 stairs adjacent to the parking area or inside the Top Shop to reach the short pathway to the bridge. Also, an elevator in the Top Shop takes you to the third floor for a level walk to the bridge.

Top Shop

Located adjacent to the Bridge, the Top Shop features a gift shop, snacks, restrooms, elevator and second-floor exhibition area. Also get the latest park information and trail maps. Read more.

Accessibility

Inside the Top Shop, an elevator makes the Mile High Swinging Bridge accessible to people with mobility challenges, including those in wheelchairs. From the Top Shop, there is a paved 50-yard path to the bridge. Read more about our accessibility.

Tickets & Hours

Walking across the Mile High Swinging Bridge is included in your Grandfather Mountain admission ticket that includes many other things to do in our nature park. Buy tickets online and book a reservation time to enter the park. You do not need a separate reservation for the bridge. It’s open, weather permitting, every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. See hours.

More to Explore

Before or after visiting the Mile High Swinging Bridge, allow time to enjoy other parts of the mountain: wildlife habitats, Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, restaurant, hiking trails, roadside overlooks, picnic areas and more. See more Things to Do.

Nearby Hiking Trails

Trailheads to many of the Grandfather Mountain hiking trails are located near the Swinging Bridge. In fact, the 0.4 mile Bridge Trail takes you beneath the bridge, starting from the Black Rock parking area just below the summit. For details on our nearby trails, go to our Hiking Guide.

Bridge Tips & Tidbits

  • Does it really swing? Very little — unlike the original one. Today’s bridge is made of steel and reinforced with cables and springs. It has railings on the sides to ensure safety.
  • We suggest you wear rubber-soled shoes and walk with care when crossing the rocks on the far side of the bridge.
  • If heights give you pause, you can still enjoy Blue Ridge Mountain views from the ground before you reach the bridge and even from the parking area.
  • Due to periodic extreme weather conditions at the bridge, it closes when there is area lightning, high wind or icy conditions.
  • The official U.S. Weather Service Reporting Station atop the Mile High Swinging Bridge has provided daily weather observations since 1955. The temperature is usually 10 to 20 degrees cooler than in the flatlands you see below. It’s also one of the windiest locations in North Carolina, with a 124-mph record set in winter 2019. Learn more about our weather.
  • Pets are allowed on the bridge if well behaved and on a leash.
  • Photographs and videos to remember your visit are encouraged. Be mindful of sharp drop-offs along the Linville Peak ridge. Drones are not allowed. See our photography policies.
  • The Singing Bridge? When the wind blows, the Mile High Swinging Bridge “sings” in the same way as a harmonica.
  • In April through October, join Grandfather’s expert naturalists by the Bridge for Interpretive Talks about the our unique weather, climate, flora and fauna. Read more.
  • Need driving directions? The address for Grandfather Mountain’s entrance gate is 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646 (click link for Google Maps). There are no shuttles, so you must have your own vehicle to explore our nature park. No RVs longer than 28 feet in length or hinged vehicles are allowed through the Entrance Gate. See detailed directions.
  • To see much more info, see our Plan Your Visit section.

Mile High Swinging Bridge History

Former North Carolina Tourism Director Charles J. Parker coined the name “Mile High Swinging Bridge” at the Bridge’s dedication in 1952. The term “mile high” refers to the structure’s elevation above sea level (5,280 feet). The term “swinging” refers to the fact that suspension bridges are free to sway.

The original 1952 bridge was designed by Charles Hartmann Jr. of Greensboro, N.C. It was fabricated in Greensboro and then reassembled on top of the Mountain. Erecting the bridge took three weeks, a process slowed by inclement weather created by a hurricane off the North Carolina coast. Cost was $15,000. It was dedicated on Sept. 2, 1952 by North Carolina Gov. William B. Umstead.

The bridge was rebuilt in 1999 using the original towers. The cables, floor boards and side rails were all replaced using galvanized steel. One of the main advantages of the modern building materials is that they do not have to be painted. Now, Grandfather Mountain employees will not have to hang out over the gorge to paint the span. It was redesigned by Sutton, Kennerly & Associates Engineering of Asheville, N.C., and rebuilt by Taylor & Murphy Construction Company of Asheville. The cost of rebuilding was $300,000.

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Categories: Family Fun Outdoors