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.
Ready, Set…WOOF! Experience the inaugural event of the summer and join us at Patton Park for a truly unique experience on Friday, June 16th for the Inaugural Bark & Bolt presented by Hunter Subaru in Hendersonville, NC!
This family and pup-friendly event will feature the Bark & Bolt 5k, One Mile, and 100 meter Paw Pursuit. The race will be followed by a Top Dog Contest and a Bark in the Park Dog Fair with local pet friendly vendors.
We invite participants of all fitness levels to join us: whether you’re an avid runner looking to have your pup tag along with you or someone just looking for an enjoyable walk, our event is sure to provide something for everyone. Not only will it give you the chance to explore Hendersonville’s beautiful parks and greenways with your pet but also be part of a cause that helps rescue pups find loving homes.
Join us to help make this inaugural event an unforgettable success! Sign up today and get ready to bark and bolt your way through this summer event!
Event Schedule
- 4:45 – 6:30pm – Registration & Packet Pickup
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5:00 – 8:00pm – Bark in the Park
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6:00pm – One Mile Fun Run/Walk
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6:30pm – Paw Pursuit 100m Dash
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6:45pm – Bark & Bolt 5k Race Start
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7:45pm – Awards Ceremony
Courses
5k:
The Bark & Bolt 5k starting and finishing at Patton Park in Hendersonville, NC is the paw-fect race for you and your pup! This course is made up of a flat, fast out and back section along the beautiful Oklawaha Greenway. It’s all on a paved surface, so no need to worry about muddy paws! Don’t be fooled though – one short, stinker of a hill will get you back to the finish line, so make sure you and your four-legged friend are ready for the challenge. With great views and plenty of spectator friendly spots along the way, this race will be ruff to resist! So grab your pup and join us – you won’t be barking up the wrong tree with this one!
Leashed (no retractable leashes allowed), vaccinated and friendly dogs are required!
5k course map – https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42022755
One Mile:
The Bark & Bolt One Mile course is a perfect way to get your pup and your feet moving! Starting at Patton Park in Hendersonville, NC you can enjoy a relaxing run along the Oklawaha Greenway, which has a paved surface that will keep your pup’s paws comfy throughout. A single stinker hill awaits you on the way back to the finish line, but don’t worry – it’s the only one on the route. The rest of the way is flat and fast, making this course a treat for runners (and their furry teammates) of all ages and abilities. So leash up those tail-wagging wonders and get ready to bark and bolt through this fun one-mile adventure!
Leashed (no retractable leashes allowed), vaccinated and friendly dogs are required!
One mile course map – https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42023092
Paw Pursuit:
The Paw Pursuit 100 Meter Dash is the ultimate test of canine athleticism and speed! This competition is only for the most well-behaved pups, so it’s time to see who is Top Dog. Dogs will be divided into three weight classes: Lightweight, Middleweight, and Heavyweight.
This Paw Pursuit 100 Meter Dash promises lots of fur-ocious fun for pet owners looking to find out just who is Top Dog!
Let’s see which pup has what it takes to come out on top as the most paw-some pup in town! So, get excited and get your pup ready to run!
Dog owners are encouraged to run alongside their pup!
We are thrilled to announce JAMBAR will be the official nutrition/energy bar partner of the race!
JAMBARS were created by the co-founder of the original PowerBar, Jennifer Maxwell. Jennifer worked for four and a half years to create the perfect bar. “Everything in a JAMBAR you could eat off a spoon!” JAMBAR is featured in this month’s Runner’s World magazine as one of the top bars of the year for their Mango flavor! JAMBARS are
- Certified organic & non-GMO
- Crafted in small batches in the company’s own facility
- Vegan
- Gluten-Free
- Made with real fruit and/or fair trade chocolate
- Sweetened with authentic sweeteners from nature
- Offer 10 grams of protein per bar
JAMBAR also donates 50% of all after-tax profits to qualified nonprofits to support music, active living and community connections! You’ll find JAMBAR at the water station. Be sure to stop by and pick one up! With four delicious flavors to choose from, you’ll definitely “Get your jam on!”
Ready, Set…WOOF! Experience the inaugural event of the summer and join us at Patton Park for a truly unique experience on Friday, June 16th for the Inaugural Bark and Bolt presented by Hunter Subaru in Hendersonville, NC!
This family and pup-friendly event will feature the Bark and Bolt 5k, One Mile, and 100 meter Paw Pursuit. The race will be followed by a Top Dog Contest and a Bark in the Park Dog Fair with local pet friendly vendors.
We invite participants of all fitness levels to join us: whether you’re an avid runner looking to have your pup tag along with you or someone just looking for an enjoyable walk, our event is sure to provide something for everyone. Not only will it give you the chance to explore Hendersonville’s beautiful parks and greenways with your pet but also be part of a cause that helps rescue pups find loving homes.
Join us to help make this inaugural event an unforgettable success! Sign up today and get ready to bark and bolt your way through this summer event!
All human finishers will receive a finisher ‘dog tag’ at the finish line and pups will receive a Bark and Bolt custom/commemorative bandana!
FREE | Bring those four-legged canines over for some happy tail-wagging at our Summer Dog Pawty! Come out for a great time celebrating these furever friends of ours. Giveaways for all. Prizes for best dog costume, best dog trick, & best at guessing the right amount of treats in a jar! Refreshments are provided for both humans & canines! Dogs must be on a leash.
Hora Feliz para Mascotas
GRATIS | ¡Trae a esos perros de cuatro patas para que disfruten de una cola feliz en nuestra Fiesta de Verano para Perros! Ven y diviértete celebrando a nuestros amigos de cuatro patas. ¡Habrá obsequios para todos! Premios para el mejor disfraz de perro, el mejor truco de perro y el mejor adivinador de la cantidad correcta de golosinas en un frasco. ¡Se proporcionarán refrigerios tanto para humanos como para caninos! Los perros deben ir con correa.
During the Pup Crawl, participants will visit Guidon Brewing Company, M&T Distillery, Southern Appalachian Brewery, The Brandy Bar & Cocktails, and Celtic Creamery to enjoy food, drinks, and activities hosted by each business. As you stop for a drink and an activity, make sure to get your ‘pupport’ pass stamped at each bar. Once you collect all the stamps, check back in at the Blue Ridge Humane table at the last location you visit and enter the Grand Prize drawing with tons of swag and goodies from our hosts for you and your pup!
New this year, a pet-centric vendor fair will be hosted on Barker Street. Vendors will be onsite for participants to meet, learn about their businesses, and enjoy freebies or activities for themselves and their dogs.
Pupport ticket sales will open May 1st until June 23 for $15 for one pet/$30 for multiple pets and day of registration on June 24th will have pupports available for $20 for one pet/$40 for multiple pets. Included in the pupport purchase price is also a 10% discount code for the event t-shirts. Shirts will only be available online, prior to Pup Crawl, and will not be available for purchase during the event. Visit www.blueridgehumane.org/get-involved/fundraising-events/pupcrawl/ for more information and to purchase your pupport.

Calling all Doodle owners! Considering the number of labradoodles, goldendoodles and other oodles of doodles out there. Let’s get our doodles together to socialize and make friends in between!
Our little guy, Gator is half mini poodle and socializes well with other doodles. Join us and tell us all about your doodle!
The Whale offers a roomy pet friendly patio but polite pets are also allowed inside. This craft beer collective pours brews from around the world plus wine, cider, mead & sake.
**West Asheville location**
https://thewhalecollective.com/west-asheville-nc/
Join us at Asheville’s newest cat cafe and metaphysical supplies shop , for a day of fun with local artists and makers, vendors, black cats and kittens, magic, delicious vegan dishes from Pasta Prana, and other hijinks!
We’ll have a dozen MAGICAL local vendors ready to sling their wares plus multiple tarot and intuitive readers! Oddities, tarot, local art, cat toys and trinkets, and much more will be available!
Binx’s Home for Black Cats will be having a “Find Your Familiar” black cat adoption event on site in our push to clear the shelters!!!
Pre-approved adopters will get access to the cat lounge for FREE!
Adoption applications can be submitted here —> https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BHBC/Cat
Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the most magical of animals: the black cat!
NEEDED ITEMS:
wet food
dry food
treats
toys
litter
donations
Join Pack Square Collection for a free rooftop paw-ty on October 14th from 11am-2pm on the top of the Pack Square Parking Garage at 26 Biltmore Avenue, through the stairs by White Duck Taco. Attendees can bring their four-legged friends for a paw-some good time with complimentary pet portraits, pet caricatures, live music, dog-friendly vendors and more!
FREE | All ages, advance registration requested
Dress up those pups and bring them to a treat scavenger hunt with giveaways for canines and their human companions. Dogs must be on a leash. For more info, call 828-507-9003.
‘Your Dog Here’ Returns – Be Part of the Legacy! 🐾
Your furry friend’s chance at stardom is here! ‘Your Dog Here’ is back for its third year, and it’s your golden opportunity to have your beloved pup featured on a limited-edition DSSOLVR beer label – all while supporting the incredible work of Asheville Humane Society.
For just $25, your furry companion will strike a pose and earn their spot on our ‘Your Dog Here’ beer can label. But that’s not all – every participating pup enters our raffle for a chance to be front and center on the label!
📅 Event Dates & Locations: 📅
1️⃣ The Whale Edition:
🗓️ Thursday, October 19th
⏰ 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🏢 The Whale
2️⃣ DSSOLVR Edition:
🗓️ Sunday, October 22nd
⏰ 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
🏢 DSSOLVR Taproom
💙 Supporting Asheville Humane Society: 💙
Every dollar raised goes directly to Asheville Humane Society, a dedicated organization working tirelessly to promote the compassionate treatment of animals in our community through education, sheltering, and adoption. Last year, ‘Your Dog Here’ raised a remarkable $5,750 and showcased the love for 115 dogs on our label.
Don’t miss your chance to make your dog a star and support a great cause! Join us at ‘Your Dog Here’ and let’s make it a bark-tastic day to remember. See you there! 🐶👽🐶”
‘Your Dog Here’ Returns – Be Part of the Legacy! 🐾
Your furry friend’s chance at stardom is here! ‘Your Dog Here’ is back for its third year, and it’s your golden opportunity to have your beloved pup featured on a limited-edition DSSOLVR beer label – all while supporting the incredible work of Asheville Humane Society.
For just $25, your furry companion will strike a pose and earn their spot on our ‘Your Dog Here’ beer can label. But that’s not all – every participating pup enters our raffle for a chance to be front and center on the label!
📅 Event Dates & Locations: 📅
1️⃣ The Whale Edition:
🗓️ Thursday, October 19th
⏰ 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🏢 The Whale
2️⃣ DSSOLVR Edition:
🗓️ Sunday, October 22nd
⏰ 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
🏢 DSSOLVR Taproom
💙 Supporting Asheville Humane Society: 💙
Every dollar raised goes directly to Asheville Humane Society, a dedicated organization working tirelessly to promote the compassionate treatment of animals in our community through education, sheltering, and adoption. Last year, ‘Your Dog Here’ raised a remarkable $5,750 and showcased the love for 115 dogs on our label.
Don’t miss your chance to make your dog a star and support a great cause! Join us at ‘Your Dog Here’ and let’s make it a bark-tastic day to remember. See you there! 🐶👽🐶”
A congregation of local makers and practitioners of all things magical, feline, and magically feline.
Benefiting Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue. Bring your furry friend for costume contests, raffles, local vendors, specialty cocktails, tunes from DJ RexxStep. $5.
A unique event featuring a group mediumship reading and a silent auction is set
to raise funds for local non-profit, Asheville Cat Weirdos, a local non-profit organization that
provides assistance with emergency veterinary costs for cats in Western North Carolina.
Since the organization relies 100% on donations and volunteers, local psychic medium, Kelly
Palmatier, was inspired to donate a fundraising event, “An Evening with Spirit & Fundraiser for
Asheville Cat Weirdos.” It is scheduled for Monday evening, November 27, 2023, from 6 to 8
p.m. and will be held at the Hi-Wire Brewing Event Space in Biltmore Village at 2B Huntsman
Place, Asheville, NC 28803.
For skeptics and believers alike, Palmatier aims to channel loved ones who’ve crossed over and
bring inner peace to audience members, although event details make it clear that not every
audience member will receive a reading.
“I named my company Channeling White Light because it’s a metaphor for making a positive
difference in the world,” says Palmatier, “so I love donating fundraisers and helping the
community in any way I can.” She and her assistants are handling and paying for every detail of
the event, and 100% of the proceeds will go to Asheville Cat Weirdos.
Star Broadnax, Interim Director for the Asheville Cat Weirdos Emergency Fund
(AshevilleCatWeirdos.org), expresses gratitude for the event: “Our organization thrives on
donations and the selfless efforts of volunteers. We are incredibly thankful for this event and
the support it provides in our mission to help cats in need.”
Doors open at 6:00 p.m. for the silent auction, followed by the group mediumship reading
beginning at 6:30 p.m. The event also features a cash bar provided by Hi-Wire. Tickets are $25
per person or $40 for a couple and can be purchased online at ChannelingWhiteLight.com.
On Sundays, December 3, and December 17, 2023, visit Asheville Outlets from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for FREE pet photos with Santa by TapSnap Phototainment. Located in the Food Court. Visitors receive one FREE 4” by 6” photo and digital download of a single image (while supplies last). For more information, visit ShopAshevilleOutlets.com.
ONSITE | Wednesday, December 13, 1 – 3 p.m. | $30 Adult Non-Member (Arboretum member discount applies!) Pre-registration Required.
Cats and dogs are exposed to plants and plant materials in the garden, home environment and as part of their normal diet. Many plants, plant materials and horticultural products are safe for pet animals to consume or be exposed to but others are potentially hazardous. This class will focus on how plants and plant materials found in the garden or home may adversely affect pet animals. Phil Roudebush, a veterinarian, clinical nutritionist, small animal internist and extension master gardener volunteer, brings practical ideas about how to keep pets safe around plants and gardens.
Pre-register for this small-group experience through the form linked below and staff will be in touch to finalize registration and payment.
This six week course focuses on proper socialization, bite inhibition, house training, manners and much more!
Your goal as a puppy parent is to give your pup the best possible start in life. Puppies learn more between 5 and 12 weeks of age than they will in their entire lifetime! Laying a positive foundation during this time is critical for puppies to grow into behaviorally healthy dogs.
This six week course focuses on proper socialization, bite inhibition, house training, manners and much more! The class is limited to 12 puppies who are 8 to 18 weeks old when the course begins (if your dog is over 18 weeks of age, please sign up for the Canine Manners class).
* All puppies must have started their puppy vaccine series (distemper, parvo and bordetella) at least one week prior to the first class. Owners are expected to commit to continuing this vaccine series during the six week course.
The cost of this course includes six classes, held one hour per week for six weeks from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM on the following dates: December 16, January 6, 13, 20, 27, & February 3. Scheduled cancellations: December 23 and 30 or unless otherwise stated by trainer.
This class will take place at the Asheville Humane Training Center (800 Fairview Road, Suite C1). Please go to the BACK of the building to enter through the back training center door.
About the trainer:
Pia Silvani is an internationally-recognized dog trainer and lecturer with over 35 years’ experience. As VP of Training and Behavior at St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center in Madison, NJ, she developed numerous courses focused on positive, reward-based techniques. In 2013, Pia began working for the ASPCA, eventually becoming the Director, Behavioral Rehabilitation where she led programs to educate shelter professionals in effective behavior rehabilitation techniques, as well as specialized socialization, enrichment, and shelter protocols. This cutting-edge program is featured in the award-winning Netflix documentary, “Second Chance Dogs”.
After 6 years at the ASPCA, Pia has decided to re-establish her consulting business here in the Asheville area specializing in rehabilitating fearful and aggressive behaviors in dogs. She is Director of Behavior and Training at Asheville Humane, offers private behavioral consultations in client’s homes as well as teaching classes for Asheville Humane Society.
Pia has been chosen as one of Bark’s 100 picks of the best and brightest people that changed the world of dogs. Her goal has always been to combine her love of dogs with her respect and affection for people. She enriches the lives of both through humane relationship work and training.
For more information on Pia, visit her website: www.piasilvani.com and email her for more information.
Join us for a festive, fun-filled celebration for you and your pups this December 17th! We will have Santa here for photo opportunities, live music, and dog treats!
Donations will be accepted for the Blue Ridge Humane society during the month of December
On Sundays, December 3, and December 17, 2023, visit Asheville Outlets from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for FREE pet photos with Santa by TapSnap Phototainment. Located in the Food Court. Visitors receive one FREE 4” by 6” photo and digital download of a single image (while supplies last). For more information, visit ShopAshevilleOutlets.com.
A new performance work, titled “Redemption/TIME,” brings together acclaimed poet Jimmy Santiago Baca and jazz violin virtuoso Christian Howes in a unique multimedia collaboration under the direction of Dr. David Gonzalez. The project aims to inspire a new generation through the hard-won life lessons of Santiago-Baca and Howes, and to bring their powerful voices to a wide audience through live performances and streaming services.
In “Redemption/TIME,” Baca’s poetic genius intertwines with Howes’ soulful musicality, along with compelling video design, to create a performance work that aims to “inspire, educate, and motivate audiences across the country,” according to Gonzalez.
Both Baca and Howes have powerful stories to tell, with the former having overcome illiteracy and incarceration to become an award-winning poet, while the latter learned valuable life lessons during his time in prison. Their collaboration is a testament to the power of transformation, resilience, and art.
Who Let the Dogs Out Costume Contest, 1-5pm, Grab your pup and join Bold Rock in Mills River and celebrate “National Dress
Up Your Dog Day” Costume contest. There will be a local dog-trainer on-site to help host, along with dog-inspired giveaways,
prizes for the winners, and live music from Stephen Evans at 1pm,
Benefitting TrapKing Humane Cat Solutions
Fundraiser & Silent Auction, Music
Performances, Cat Clicker-Training, & More!
Join us for the purrfect, cat-filled evening!
Rabies 1yr/3yr – $10.00 (3 year must have proof of previous vaccine with client)
FVRCP/FELV – $20.00
FVRCP – $15.00
FELV – $15.00
Rabies 1yr/3yr – $10.00 (3 year must have proof of previous vaccine with client)
DAPP – $15.00
DHLPP – $15.00
Lyme – $20.00
Bordetella – $15.00
*Flea/tick and dewormer available
Join Dr. Barden Greenfield for an informative webinar that will equip you with the knowledge and skills to effectively identify and manage pet periodontal disease in its varying stages. Periodontal disease is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects the oral health of our beloved pets. In this class, we will delve deep into understanding the causes, symptoms, and consequences of periodontal disease in pets. Have questions for the expert? You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions and get personalized advice from Dr. Greenfield at our Live Q+A at the end of the presentation.
Can’t attend the class? You will still receive the recording if you register. Sign up today at: https://hfu.hollywoodfeed.com/live-event-page/understanding-managing-periodontal-disease-in-pets/
ABOUT THE PRESENTER: Dr. Barden Greenfield is a 1985 graduate of Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He became a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) after completing a non-conforming dental residency in 2010. He has a dental referral specialty practice (Your Pet Dentist) in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Greenfield previously served on the AVDC board for multiple years and was President of the College from 2016-2018. He is currently a Board Member of the Foundation for Veterinary Dentistry. He was the recipient of the prestigious AVDC Peter Emily Service Award in 2017 and AVDC President’s Award for Stewardship in 2020.
Dr. Greenfield is also a veterinary dental educator, lecturing both nationally and internationally.
ABOUT HOLLYWOOD FEED: Hollywood Feed serves pets, their owners, caretakers and communities in 170 stores across 19 states. Consistently ranking atop consumer choice awards in the markets it serves, Hollywood Feed and its family of brands have been named to Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers for 2022 (ranking #1 in the pet care category), Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Customer Service for 2024, Best Pet Supply Stores by Dallas A-List, Best Pet Store by The Memphis Flyer, Best Self Atlanta Magazine’s Best Pet Store, Best Pet Food and Supplies in the Best of Denton County Awards, and Best New Business by Cary Living Magazine in North Carolina. Hollywood Feed proudly stands by its brand promise: If your pet doesn’t love it or if you don’t love it, we will gladly replace or refund it. Learn more about Hollywood Feed at hollywoodfeed.com and facebook.com/hwfeed.
This St. Patrick’s Day, Wagbar is not just about the green on land but also about the joy in water! Alongside our festive celebration with wine slushies, drink specials, and delicious food from Trucking Delicious, we’re excited to announce a special treat: our dog swimming pool will be open for one day only before its full-time opening this summer!
Here’s what’s brewing for the day:
– **Wine Slushee Return**: Our beloved Wine Slushees are back for the day. Don’t miss out on this crowd-pleaser!
– **St. Patrick’s Day Drink Specials**: Enjoy themed drink specials all-day to keep the spirits high.
– **Annual Membership Raffle**: Drop by and get entered for a chance to win a year full of unforgettable Wagbar adventures.
– **Food by Trucking Delicious**: From 2:30 PM to 7 PM, indulge in the best eats on wheels.
– **Free Entry for All**: In the spirit of inclusivity, entry is free for both dogs and humans. Come one, come all!
– **Exclusive Pool Preview**: Dive into fun with our dog swimming pool, open exclusively for this St. Patrick’s Day. Get a sneak peek before it opens full time in the summer.
**Entry Requirements for Pooches**:
– Must be spayed and 6 months or older.
– Up-to-date on rabies, distemper, and bordetella vaccines. (Show proof of vaccinations on entry.)
Dress in your festive best, bring your furry friends, and make a splash this St. Patrick’s Day at Wagbar. It’s the perfect place to experience joy, community, and a little luck of the Irish – both on land and in water. Don’t miss this chance to soak up the fun before our pool opens for the entire summer season!
Let’s celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a splash, laughter, and wagging tails. See you and your four-legged companions for a day to remember!
Dog Eggstravaganza: Kicking off the 2024 event calendar is the Dog Eggstravaganza, which will be taking place at Buncombe County Sports Park’s dog park on March 23 at 12 p.m. This event will offer some springtime fun for our four-legged friends, and will consist of a small and large dog division. Each division will have approximately 30 minutes to find as many hidden eggs (filled with treats) as possible. In addition to hidden treats, dogs who collect the most eggs will receive a special prize. While admission is free, pre-registration is required as there are limited spots available. Registration opens on March 4 and closes March 20.
Kicking off our 2024 event calendar is the Dog Eggstravaganza, which will be taking place at Buncombe County Sports Park’s dog park on March 23 at 12 p.m. This event will offer some springtime fun for our four-legged friends and will consist of small and large dog divisions. Each division will have approximately 30 minutes to find as many hidden eggs (filled with treats) as possible. In addition to hidden treats, dogs who collect the most eggs will receive a special prize. While admission is free, pre-registration is required as there are limited spots available. Registration opens Monday, March 4. Pre-register here.
Second Gear Celebrates 20 Years of Community and Consigned Outdoor Gear + Apparel on Saturday June 15th with an all day MEGA SALE (biggest of the year!) and a celebratory 20th Anniversary Block Party from Noon-5pm with exciting Raffles, Free Kids Activities, Local Makers, Outdoor Vendors + Educators, Sweet + Savory Treats, Puppy Adoptions and more… Stop by for the savings and stay for the fun as Second Gear says THANK YOU to their beloved WNC community for all the support in making it to this amazing milestone!
