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.

Wednesday, July 12, 2023
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Jul 12 @ 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!

Woodsy Owl’s Curiosity Club
Jul 12 @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Cradle of Forestry

Woodsy Owl’s Curiosity Club  is a weekly educational program designed for children ages 4 to 7 to explore nature with their trusted adult and Cradle naturalist. Programs are 1.5 hours long and begin with the reading of a forest-themed story and include fun activities, games and a craft.  Programs run weekly on Wednesdays between June 21 through August 9.  Come to one or all eight programs. Great for families vacationing in the Blue Ridge mountains this summer! 

The program costs $5 per child and $3 for accompanying adults – All children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults with a Cradle Season Pass get in free. 

Programs take place outdoors utilizing our paved trails and outdoor amphitheater. 

The program starts promptly at 10:30 A.M. at the outdoor amphitheater at the Cradle of Forestry. Plan to arrive early to find parking and check in at the Forest Discovery Center lobby. 

Please ensure all members of your party are dressed appropriately for the weather and are prepared for outdoor exploration. Note that the weather at the Cradle of Forestry is often cooler than nearby Brevard and Asheville. 


Please meet at outdoor amphitheater
 

 

WHAT TO BRING

Comfortable Walking Shoes
Water Bottle
Jacket
Rain Gear

CANCELLATION POLICY

All ticket purchases are NON-REFUNDABLE.  Unused ticket purchases will go to support the mission and work of FIND Outdoors, a 501(c)(3) tax deductible nonprofit organization Tax ID# 56-1302500.

Customers will receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Program Dates (Themes for each week to be announced): 

June 21
June 28

Due to generous grant funding from the NC Museum of Natural Sciences the July sessions are FREE for all attendees: 
July 5- Free for all attendees

July 12 – Free for all attendees
July 19 – Free for all attendees
July 26 – Free for all attendees

August 2
August 9

COST

Woodsy Owl’s Curiosity Club – $5 (for each child) There is no discount for child even with a pass. 

Accompanying Adult (½ price general admission)- $3

If accompanying adult is a Cradle Season Passholder, their admission free, but not the child’s.

 

Summer Animal Encounters
Jul 12 @ 2:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park
Weekdays only at 2pm

Do you know our staff has a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn about the types of wildlife in the area and their jobs. Some of our best educators have feathers, fur, shells or scales!

Pritchard Park Summer Series: Summer of Science with Asheville Museum of Science
Jul 12 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Pritchard Park

Explore hands on activities and experiments while we learn about the Science of Bubbles or the Science of Sound. Every other week we will play and learn together using a variety of tools, instruments, and toys. AMOS has a plethora of science to intrigue the zeal of every learner!

Thursday, July 13, 2023
Farm Beginnings + Journeyperson Program Applications Open
Jul 13 all-day
online w/ Organic Grower School
OGSlogo_WithName&TaglineColor_@300ppi

Calling All Farmers: Apply Now for Our Exciting Programs!

 

Are you a passionate farmer looking to take your skills to the next level? Look no further! Our highly anticipated 2023-2024 Farm Beginnings and Journeyperson Programs are now accepting applications. Join us on a transformative journey that will empower and support both aspiring and experienced farmers throughout the entire year.

 

Our Farm Beginnings Program is specifically designed for those who are just starting out in the farming industry. Whether you dream of owning your own farm or are eager to cultivate your agricultural skills, this program is tailor-made for you. Over the course of 12 months, we will provide you with comprehensive training, hands-on experience, and invaluable mentorship from seasoned farmers. You’ll learn everything from sustainable farming practices to business planning, setting you up for success right from the beginning. This 12-month program runs from October 2023 to September 2024.

 

For established farm businesses seeking to enhance their operations and expand their horizons, our Journeyperson Program is the perfect fit. This program is specifically crafted to assist farmers who have been in the industry for at least 3 years and are ready to take their businesses to new heights. Through a combination of advanced workshops, one-on-one coaching, and networking opportunities, we will help you refine your existing skills, explore innovative farming techniques, and connect with industry experts. Join us on this transformative journey as we support you every step of the way. This 12-month program starts in November 2023 and ends in November 2024.

 

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with a vibrant community of like-minded farmers. There’s no better time to invest in your farming future!

Wild West Adventure Trips w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
Jul 13 all-day
various locations
Wilderness Medicine + Survival Skills at Nantahala Outdoor Center
Jul 13 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

LEARN MORE THIS YEAR

Brush up on your wilderness medicine or learn new survival skills! SOLO Southeast & NOC are offering over 200 courses in 2023 and classes in locations across the southeast.

  • Atlanta, GA
  • Bryson City, NC
  • Chattanooga, TN
  • Collegedale, TN
  • Greenville, SC

Find your next course with SOLO Southeast and be prepared for the unexpected!

Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Jul 13 @ 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!

Rootabaga Express! Summer Plays
Jul 13 @ 10:15 am
Carl Sandburg Home

Carl Sandburg created his own version of American fairy tales when he published Rootabaga Stories (1922) and Rootabaga Pigeons (1923). He replaced the European fairy tale cast of princes, princesses, castles and kingdoms with icons American children would recognize — taxi-drivers, movie actors, skyscrapers, prairies and automobiles. Rootabaga Express! brings the stories of the Five Rusty Rats, Bimbo the Snip and more to life.You’ll meet new characters and journey farther into the Village of Liver and Onions and Sandburg’s imagination than ever before.

The 30-minute shows are appropriate for all ages and held rain or shine.These shows are supported by the Flat Rock Playhouse and the Park Store, operated by America’s National Parks.

For young visitors who attend the plays, there is a Rootabaga Junior Ranger program available. Activity sheets will be available at the amphitheater after the play and can be turned in at the Sandburg Home for a limited edition “Rootabaga Ranger” badge.


Apprentice actors from the Flat Rock Playhouse have performed adaptations of Sandburg’s works for park visitors since 1974. Using Sandburg’s own words from his collections of children’s stories, poetry, collected music, biography of Abraham Lincoln and his own autobiography, the performances provide visitors with a sense of the scope of his work and imagination. Sandburg was an expert storyteller, and easily wove important messages of fairness, empathy and social justice into his writings. Whatever play you are able to attend you will walk away with a smile on your face and a better understanding of the legacy of Carl Sandburg.

Eliada Campus Farm Tours
Jul 13 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Eliada Homes

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 about our equine therapy program.

Reservations required. There is no cost, but donations to the non-profit agency are greatly appreciated.

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

Gardening for Pollinators
Jul 13 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Bullington Gardens, Inc.

Gardening for Pollinators – (with a garden walk)

Henderson County Extension Agent and host of the Gardening in the Mountains Radio Show Steve Pettis will discuss the importance of beneficial insects and pollinators and how to garden for their benefit. Then Steve will lead a pollinator walk through the Bullington Garden grounds.

Gardening for Pollinators
Jul 13 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Bullington Gardens

Henderson County Extension Agent and host of the Gardening in the Mountains Radio Show Steve Pettis will discuss the importance of beneficial insects and pollinators and how to garden for their benefit. Then Steve will lead a pollinator walk through the Bullington Garden grounds.

Summer Animal Encounters
Jul 13 @ 2:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park
Weekdays only at 2pm

Do you know our staff has a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn about the types of wildlife in the area and their jobs. Some of our best educators have feathers, fur, shells or scales!

ArborEvenings
Jul 13 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
The North Carolina 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 30, 2022 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.

Beverage Service

Beer, Wine, and soft drinks will be for sale onsite at the Green Gardener’s Shed from 5:30 to 8:15 p.m. each night of the event. Outside alcohol is strictly prohibited, but guests are welcome to bring in water or a favorite non-alcoholic beverage.

Food Available for Pre-Order, Picnics Welcome

Although the Bent Creek Bistro will not be open during the event, they will be offering their delicious dining options at ArborEvenings via pre-order! Simply place your online order — including alcoholic beverages — up until 11 a.m. on the date you plan to attend, then pick up your order at the Baker Information Desk between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. (In the event of rain cancellation, pre-orders will be fully refunded.)

Guests are welcome to bring in outside food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited. 

Find more information here. 

Pritchard Park Summer Series: Singer/Songwriters
Jul 13 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Pritchard Park

For this year’s Pritchard Park Songwriter Series, the Asheville Association is teaming up with Paloma Madre who are best known for bringing Asheville the wildly successful, international concept, Open Folk. Each week will feature two world class songwriters from our community playing introspective and honest tunes about life in the 21st century. Pritchard Park will once again be filled with the sweet sounding songs of heartbreak, true love, heavy loss, and lots and lots of goofin. It’s a guaranteed good time that won’t cost you a dime!!

Black Mountain Park Rhythms
Jul 13 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Black Mountain Veterans Park

FINAL_Park_Rhythms2023
Concert-goers are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to each show. The 2023 series is made possible by the following sponsors: Pisgah AVL, Mark Kleive DDS, Cup of Jomo, Dough House, LEAF Global Arts, Greybeard Realty, Four Sisters Bakery, Acoustic Corner, The Red Radish, and Sarah Sunshine Pottery.

Friday, July 14, 2023
Farm Beginnings + Journeyperson Program Applications Open
Jul 14 all-day
online w/ Organic Grower School
OGSlogo_WithName&TaglineColor_@300ppi

Calling All Farmers: Apply Now for Our Exciting Programs!

 

Are you a passionate farmer looking to take your skills to the next level? Look no further! Our highly anticipated 2023-2024 Farm Beginnings and Journeyperson Programs are now accepting applications. Join us on a transformative journey that will empower and support both aspiring and experienced farmers throughout the entire year.

 

Our Farm Beginnings Program is specifically designed for those who are just starting out in the farming industry. Whether you dream of owning your own farm or are eager to cultivate your agricultural skills, this program is tailor-made for you. Over the course of 12 months, we will provide you with comprehensive training, hands-on experience, and invaluable mentorship from seasoned farmers. You’ll learn everything from sustainable farming practices to business planning, setting you up for success right from the beginning. This 12-month program runs from October 2023 to September 2024.

 

For established farm businesses seeking to enhance their operations and expand their horizons, our Journeyperson Program is the perfect fit. This program is specifically crafted to assist farmers who have been in the industry for at least 3 years and are ready to take their businesses to new heights. Through a combination of advanced workshops, one-on-one coaching, and networking opportunities, we will help you refine your existing skills, explore innovative farming techniques, and connect with industry experts. Join us on this transformative journey as we support you every step of the way. This 12-month program starts in November 2023 and ends in November 2024.

 

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with a vibrant community of like-minded farmers. There’s no better time to invest in your farming future!

Have a Gardening Question? Contact the Helpline! 2023 Schedule
Jul 14 all-day
Extension Office

Extension Master GardenerSM volunteers will be staffing the Helpline as indicated in the schedule below. You may send an email or leave a voicemail at any time and an Extension Master Gardener volunteer will respond during Garden Helpline hours. When emailing, please include a photo if it helps describe your garden question. Soil test kits can be picked up at the Extension office, 24/7. The kits are located in a box outside the front door.

Three ways to contact the Garden Helpline
Call 828-255-5522
Email questions and photos to [email protected]
Visit the Extension Office at 49 Mt. Carmel Road during Helpline hours, listed below.

Garden Helpline Hours

March – (starts March 6)
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

April through September:
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Wednesday 12:00 Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

October – (ends October 26th) 
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

We are here to help and support you! Please contact us. We look forward to answering your gardening questions.

NOC Paddling School
Jul 14 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

Voted “Best Place to Learn” by Outside, NOC Paddling School has taught more paddlers than anyone else, with 50 years of experience going into every class. Our commitment to the sport and to providing the best possible instruction has not waivered. So come and let us be your respected and experienced instructor.

Wild West Adventure Trips w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center
Jul 14 all-day
various locations
Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Jul 14 @ 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!

Eliada Campus Farm Tours
Jul 14 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Eliada Homes

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 about our equine therapy program.

Reservations required. There is no cost, but donations to the non-profit agency are greatly appreciated.

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

Summer Animal Encounters
Jul 14 @ 2:00 pm
Chimney Rock State Park
Weekdays only at 2pm

Do you know our staff has a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn about the types of wildlife in the area and their jobs. Some of our best educators have feathers, fur, shells or scales!

Summer Sounds in the Gorge
Jul 14 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Nantahala Outdoor Center

From the local favorites to new regional acts, all live from the river banks of the Nantahala. Raft, dine, then jam with us with Live Music every Friday and Saturday from 5pm-8pm between Memorial Day and Labor Day!

May 27th 5pm-8pm – Mama and the Ruckus

May 28th 5pm-8pm – The Lefties

June 2nd 5pm-8pm – Christina Chandler Trio

June 3rd 5pm-8pm – Laura Thurston

June 9th 5pm-8pm – Eddie Clayton

June 10th 1pm-4pm – Jacobs Well

June 10th 5pm-8pm – Natti Love Joys

June 16th 5pm-8pm – Rae and the Ragdolls

June 17th 5pm-8pm – Beer and Loathing

June 23rd 5pm-8pm – TBA

June 24th 5pm-8pm – Terry Haughton Trio

June 30th 5pm-8pm – Blue

July 1st 5pm-8pm – Brown Mountain Lightning Bugs

July 7th 5pm-8pm – Bayou Diesel

July 8th 5pm-8pm – Pioneer Chicken Stand

July 14th 5pm-8pm – Wyatt Espalin

July 15th 5pm-8pm – Christina Chandler Duo

July 21st 5pm-8pm – Terry Haughton

July 22nd 5pm-8pm – TG and the Stoned Rangers

July 28th 5pm-8pm – Blue

July 29th 5pm-8pm – Somebody’s Child

August 4th 5pm-8pm – Trial by Fire

August 5th 5pm-8pm – Andy Johnson

August 11th 5pm-8pm – Eddie Clayton Solo

August 12th 5pm-8pm – Eddie Clayton Band

August 18th 5pm-8pm – Big Deal Band

August 19th 1pm-4pm – Mckinney

August 19th 5pm-8pm – Funk N’ Around

August 25th 5pm-8pm – Wyatt Espalin

August 26th 5pm-8pm – Somebody’s Child

September 1st 5pm-8pm – TBA

September 2nd 5pm-8pm – Regatta 69

ArborEvenings
Jul 14 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
The North Carolina 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 30, 2022 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.

Beverage Service

Beer, Wine, and soft drinks will be for sale onsite at the Green Gardener’s Shed from 5:30 to 8:15 p.m. each night of the event. Outside alcohol is strictly prohibited, but guests are welcome to bring in water or a favorite non-alcoholic beverage.

Food Available for Pre-Order, Picnics Welcome

Although the Bent Creek Bistro will not be open during the event, they will be offering their delicious dining options at ArborEvenings via pre-order! Simply place your online order — including alcoholic beverages — up until 11 a.m. on the date you plan to attend, then pick up your order at the Baker Information Desk between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. (In the event of rain cancellation, pre-orders will be fully refunded.)

Guests are welcome to bring in outside food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited. 

Find more information here. 

Brews + Bears Summer Event Series
Jul 14 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
WNC Nature Center

Enjoy the WNC Nature Center in the evening with a beer or cider in hand!

Live Music Oak +Grist
Jul 14 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Oak and Grist Distilling Company
 Come by and listen to some chill tunes with a hand-crafted cocktail in hand.

LIVE MUSIC LINEUP

July 14th Levi Carr & Andy Burns
July 21st Handpan Jam w/ Josh Rivera 
July 28th Kristian Giglietti
August 4th Clara New
August 11th Spencer Cranfill
Pritchard Park Summer Series: Drum Circle
Jul 14 @ 6:00 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.

Asheville Tourists vs. Winston-Salem Dash — Asheville Blues Night + Fireworks Night
Jul 14 @ 6:30 pm
McCormick Field

$1 Hot Dogs presented by Blossman Gas and Mix 96.5

Come out to McCormick Field to watch your Tourists become the Asheville Blues in honor of the Negro League team that played in the 1940’s and 1950’s!

Promotion: Tourists Fireworks Night

Post Game Fireworks Show presented by Ingles!

Music on Main
Jul 14 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Downtown Hendersonville

The Friday Night Music series will present the familiar 50’s and 60’s
classic rock and beach music from a host of different bands. Food vendors like Babbles Ice
Cream, Blue Ridge Hospitality and Eggs Up Grill will provide a some spice. The Carolina
Mountain Car Club will participate as in years past.

Friday Night Concerts
Super 60’s June 9
Gotcha Groove June 16
It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere June 23
Marsha Morgan June 30
Shades of Gray July 7
Thomas Brown July 14
Emporium July 21
Johnnie Blackwell Band July 28
Rock and Roll Reunion August 4
208 Army Band August 11
Night Moves Band August 18