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.

Sunday, August 27, 2023
At The River: Struggle and Grace in the Segregated South Documentary Showing
Aug 27 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
White Horse Black Mountain

The Friends of the Black Mountain Library and the White Horse Black Mountain join with filmmaker Carolyn Crowder for a local showing of her feature length documentary At the River: Struggle and Grace in the Segregated South on Sunday, August 27 at 3 PM. Carolyn, a Black Mountain resident, grew up in the segregated Deep South in a racist family and culture. Later in life she learned of a few young southern Presbyterian ministers took a stand against segregation through their sermons, community organizing and participation in marches and protests. They faced dangerous, hate-filled consequences for these actions. Carolyn wondered why they dared. To find out she travelled throughout the Southeast interviewing ministers, now in their 80’s and 90’s, and family members about their experiences and what it took to go against the racist currents within their local communities and congregations.
At The River chronicles their lives and their decisions, as well as director Carolyn Crowder’s first-hand experience as a young white southern girl from Montgomery, Alabama. During those mean and turbulent times these ministers, through their love and example, had a huge impact on her life in helping her overcome her southern racist brainwashing.

Film: At The River: Struggle and Grace in the Segregated South
Aug 27 @ 3:00 pm
White Horse Black Mountain

The Friends of the Black Mountain Library and the White Horse join with filmmaker Carolyn Crowder for a local showing of her feature length documentary At The River: Struggle and Grace in the Segregated South on Sunday, August 27 at 3 PM.

At The River is a feature length documentary about a certain time and place in the deep south. In the Civil Rights era of the 50’s and 60’s most Presbyterian ministers stood on the banks of the cultural river of segregation and white supremacy. They opted not to stir the waters in their congregations and communities by speaking out. However, a few young southern Presbyterian ministers did brave those currents through their sermons, community organizing and participating in marches and protests. They faced dangerous, hate-filled consequences for these actions.

At The River chronicles their lives and their decisions, as well as director Carolyn Crowder’s first-hand experience as a young white southern girl from Montgomery, Alabama. During those mean and turbulent times these ministers, through their love and example, had a huge impact on her life in helping her overcome her southern racist brainwashing.

Director’s Statement:

I fled the south and lived 40 years out west and found that many people were skeptical about my stories of the young ministers who challenged my racial cultural brainwashing. When I moved back to the south several years ago, I realized that I lived in an area surrounded by Presbyterian ministers who had “fought the good fight” during the Civil Rights Era. Most of them had never told their stories in public and in many cases their grown children did not even know what they had been through. These men were modest and unpretentious about their strong stands during those hard times.

This is a story told from my perspective as white southerner who grew up in a racist family and culture with limited exposure to the suffering and inequalities around me. What started out as a small oral history project interviewing the ministers I knew as a teenager, grew into this feature length documentary. We traveled extensively throughout the southeast, interviewing over 60 ministers and family members, amassing over 100 hours of material.

As a psychologist I’ve always been interested in early memories and how they impact later behavior. So I asked these men about when they realized as children that what they were being taught about race was wrong.

The music in the film consists of old Presbyterian Scottish and English hymns mostly from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries – the music that the ministers and I grew up with. These traditional hymns provide historical context, setting the mood and giving the film emotional depth.

It was a disgraceful chapter in (Southern) Presbyterian Church history. This movie is a document, however, of those white ministers who tried to do the right thing when the right thing was difficult and dangerous to do. Their modeling changed me and other teenagers who were watching.

DIRECTOR:

Carolyn Crowder, Ph.D. is a retired psychologist who specialized in parent education and published three parenting books, one of which was a NY Times national bestseller. She appeared on Today, 20/20, Dateline, and NPR.

She has produced three documentaries: SISTER DON’T WEEP is an art piece about being raised Southern and female; SOMEWHERE TO LAY MY HEAD is about the history of a Southern Black community in rural Arizona, as told by the elders; and, RUBY, an exploration of the life of Ruby Prevo who worked for the Crowder family for over 20 years.

PRODUCER, CAMERA, EDITOR:

Rod Murphy has won 14 awards for his first three documentary features, including Best of Fest, Best Documentary, and Audience Award. He directs and produces video for commercial and non-profit clients, including Outward Bound, American Express, New Belgium Brewing, Habitat for Humanity, and Industries for the Blind. His work has screened internationally at festivals and on cable. Website: Collective Projects

MUSIC DIRECTOR

Aaron Price has been making music in Asheville since 1997. He played in the Appalachian State University jazz band and began writing songs. After college Aaron moved to Asheville where he opened Collapsible Recording Studio. He has directed music for numerous regional musical theater productions and serves as Music Director at Black Mountain Presbyterian Church.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FILM

Tuesday, August 29, 2023
2023 Chamber Classic Golf Tournament
Aug 29 @ 8:00 am
The Omni Grove Park Inn

The 2023 Chamber Classic Golf Tournament will be held on Tuesday, August 29, at The Omni Grove Park Inn.

This event is always a fun opportunity for members of the business community to connect with colleagues and enjoy a beautiful day out of the office.

This Captain’s Choice tournament begins with a shotgun start at 8:30 am (one flight only). Sponsors will engage golfers with fun interaction and branded prizes at select holes on the course.

Entry fee includes breakfast provided by Bojangles of WNC, a delicious, hearty lunch catered by Bear’s Smokehouse Asheville. Two beverage stations will be set up on the course, with beer provided by Highland Brewing Company and soft drinks from Pepsi-Cola.

Registration fee is $225 per individual or $900 for a team of four players.

Every great event needs volunteers!

Anyone interested in volunteering to help with this tournament may contact Judi Willard at [email protected]

 

Chamber Event Refund Policy:  The Chamber requires payment in advance for admission to all Chamber events, due to commitments to our vendors. Chamber event fees (regardless of attendance) are refundable only if a cancellation notice is received at least one week prior to the event.

Ribbon Cutting: Terra Bella Hendersonville
Aug 29 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Terra Bella Hendersonville

Ribbon Cutting:

Terra Bella Hendersonville

Ten to Try: Trails | Preview Screening + Virtual Discussion
Aug 29 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
online
As part of North Carolina’s Year of the Trail celebration, please join us for a preview screening of new original special, Ten to Try: Trails. This half-hour special will offer ten trail recommendations from outdoor enthusiasts and experts from across the state. The series was produced in partnership with the Great Trails State Coalition and with generous support from the SECU Foundation.
Following the screening you are invited to participate in a virtual discussion and audience Q+A with local hikers and outdoor enthusiasts featured in the series. The conversation will be led by James Mieczkowski, content development producer, PBS North Carolina.
This is a FREE virtual event, but registration is required. The link to join the event can be found in your Eventbrite confirmation. It will also be included in event reminders sent via email a few days prior to the event.
To reserve your seat(s), please register via Eventbrite, or contact PBS North Carolina engagement events manager, Karen Nowak @[email protected].
To learn more about this and other upcoming events, visit pbsnc.org/events
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
Ribbon cutting: Archetype Brewing + Kitchen South Slope
Aug 30 @ 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Archetype Brewing + Kitchen South Slope

Archetype Brewing is proud to open a third location in the South Slope, offering an
elevated dining experience with world inspired cuisine. Enjoy food and cocktails with a
full bar alongside its complex and mindfully crafted Belgian & American inspired brews.
The open-concept space welcomes all individuals, with roll-up street facing doors, an
intimate mezzanine and a rooftop patio, all adorned in modern decor while highlighting
its historical attributes, dating back to the 1920’s.
The event is free to the public and will include music, food, drink specials, and a
giveaway! Come celebrate with drinks or food prior to the Tourists’ Industry Night
ballgame at McCormick Field. Bring your ticket in before or after the game to show your
server and receive 20% off any one full priced food item. We look forward to seeing you!
See the full MENU HERE: https://archetypebrewing.com/abk-food-menu/

Thursday, August 31, 2023
Simple Steps for Starting Your Business #1
Aug 31 @ 5:45 pm – 8:15 pm

Start-up Basics: This introductory workshop focuses on the basics of testing your business idea and identifying the key factors that influence start-up success.

Start-up Basics provides you with an overview of the skills and tools you need when deciding to start a business.

In this session, you learn about: the advantages and disadvantages of owning a business, the most profitable form for your business, and the fundamentals of formation, organization, marketing, cash flow and funding sources.

Friday, September 1, 2023
Napoleon Dynamite: Film + Conversation with Jon Heder, Efren Ramirez, Jon Gries
Sep 1 @ 7:30 pm
Appalachian Theatre of the High Country

Event is BYOT (Bring Your Own Tots) The beloved indie classic “Napoleon Dynamite” was made almost almost 20 years ago. Since then much has changed; but the characters, as enduring as they are endearing, stay in our hearts.

Appealing to the inner-teenager in each of us, the story, and more importantly the dialogue, makes “Napoleon Dynamite” one of the most quoted movies of our time.

Napoleon Dynamite makes us laugh – and laugh hard – over and over again.

This unique evening includes a full screening of “Napoleon Dynamite” followed by a lively, freewheeling, moderated discussion with fan-favorite cast members; Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite), Efren Ramirez (Pedro), and Jon Gries (Uncle Rico).

Thursday, September 7, 2023
Goodwill Business Advisory Council (BAC) meeting
Sep 7 @ 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Givens Communities at Givens Estates
Please join us for the next Goodwill Business Advisory Council (BAC) meeting to be held on Thursday, September 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. We’ll be meeting at Givens Communities at Givens Estates in Asheville.

Building: Williams Performing Arts Center in Oxford Commons. Click here to view a campus map.

Featured Speakers:
Kevin Schwab – CEO
Christian Grunder – Vice President, Human Resources
Teresa Stephens – Vice President, Affordable Communities
Keith Robinette and Kayla Welch – Talent Acquisition Specialists
Andrew Myers – Natural Resources Crew Leader
Danielle Stringer – Landscape Crew Leader
Dylan Lowery – Turf Crew Leader
Closing Remarks: Kayla Welch and Keith Robinette

Come join us to learn more about how Given Communities is leading the way in providing our area with elder care. We will hear from members of the staff and leadership team. Be sure to stay after the meeting for a tour of the community.

We look forward to seeing all our community partners on September 7. Please register to attend below; space is limited.

Friday, September 8, 2023
AM Power Hour
Sep 8 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 am
Mountain Credit Union

Enjoy a more productive day by meeting prospective customers at the start of your day. You may find a strong referral source, a new vendor, the perfect client, or simply get a foot in the door for connecting again later at another Chamber event. AM Power Hour is great if you are an early-bird or can’t make our after-hours networking events.

AM Power Hour
Sep 8 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 am
Mountain Credit Union
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting: Hendersonville Outfitters
Sep 8 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Hendersonville Outfitters

Friday, September 8th

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Hendersonville Outfitters

144 3rd Ave West, Hendersonville

Monday, September 11, 2023
“Music Movie Mondays”: Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd
Sep 11 @ 7:00 pm
Grail Moviehouse

Have You Got It Yet?
The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd
For Immediate Release: A new documentary explores the mystery of
what happened to the founder and leader of one of rock music/s most
legendary bands. A special September 11 one-night screening as part
of the Music Movie Mondays series at Grail Moviehouse will be hosted
by Asheville speaker, author, music journalist and Pink Floyd authority
Bill Kopp.
When Pink Floyd released their debut single, 1967’s “Arnold Layne,” it
marked the beginning of a momentous chapter in music. The song
showcased not only the psychedelic quality of the four-man group from
Cambridge and London, but the songwriting prowess and unique vision of the
band’s leader, Syd Barrett.
Guitarist and front man Roger Keith “Syd” Barrett was a promising artist,
creating unique songs that both captured the zeitgeist of the burgeoning
psychedelic movement and captured a particular kind of English whimsy, informed as much by poetry and fantasy as by
LSD. The band’s first album, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn featured a bounty of songs that displayed Barrett’s unique
and inimitable musical vision.
But little more than nine months after that album’s release, Barrett was gone from the group he had founded. Save for two
erratic and deeply idiosyncratic solo albums and a handful of unfinished recordings, that would be the last the world would
hear from the uniquely creative songwriter and musician. Completely leaving music behind, he went on to live a quiet life
in Cambridge, finally passing away in 2006, nearly 40 years after leaving (or being dismissed from) Pink Floyd.
What happened? Did Syd suffer a mental breakdown? Did he succumb to the effects of too many LSD trips? Did he
simply want to step out of the machinery of the music business? Or is the real story some combination of all of those
things and more? Until now, Syd’s life has been the subject of speculation and conjecture. But with the cooperation of
Barrett’s family and former band mates, director Roddy Bogawa explores the fascinating mystery that is the life and music
of Syd Barrett.
Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd is a new authorized documentary that digs deep into
the mystery that is Syd Barrett. As part of the Music Movie Mondays series, Grail Moviehouse in Asheville hosts a special
one-night-only showing of the film. Presented by Asheville-based speaker, author and music journalist Bill Kopp (author of
Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon) the evening will include a screening of the film
followed by an interactive discussion.

Hosted by author, speaker and music journalist Bill Kopp,
the evening will feature a screening of the film followed by
an interactive discussion. Have You Got It Yet? is the latest
in Grail Moviehouse’s popular series, Music Movie
Mondays.

“Going to the movies has always been a kind of communal experience,” says Kopp, host of
Music Movie Mondays. “Especially in this post-lockdown era, the opportunity to not only watch
a film but then to discuss it with others is something even more special. And music-related
films lend themselves remarkably well to this shared, interactive experience.”
Music Movie Mondays is sponsored by AshevilleFM. Hosted by Asheville-based author and music journalist Bill Kopp,
Grail Moviehouse presents a special screening of Have You Got It Yet? on Monday, Sep. 11 @ 7 pm. Sponsored by
AshevilleFM, the evening will feature a brief introduction. Then we’ll watch the film together; afterward, we’ll engage in a
moderated discussion.
The one-night-only screening of Have you Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd is the latest in the
ongoing popular series of Music Movie Mondays at Grail Moviehouse. Every month, we’ll watch and discuss new
releases, classics and cult favorites.

Tuesday, September 12, 2023
How to Thrive in a Recession (When You Are Self Employed)
Sep 12 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
online

Virtual via Zoom

Description: There’s been talk of a looming recession, and seemingly much to fear: inflation, interest rates, bank failures. But do you need to panic? In short: no. Recessions are a normal part of the economic cycle, and they can actually open doors both for investing and for growing your small business. But it’s important to address the scary parts, and know how to mitigate them. Join me for an empowering class on shoring up your personal finances to stay protected during an economic downturn, and to learn ways that you can position your business for surviving and even thriving in a recession.

We’ll cover:

  • emergency savings
  • personal finance basics
  • inflation
  • adjusting your quarterly tax payments
  • investing: how not to panic
  • hidden opportunities
  • why feelings matter
  • the opportunities hiding in a recession

BIO:

Hannah Cole is a tax expert who serves small creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist with a high-level exhibition history, the financial challenges of freelancers and small creative businesses are both relevant and personal to Hannah. Her specialty is communicating complex tax issues in a clear, creative-centered, empowering way, through teaching, writing, and the Sunlight podcast. She founded her company, Sunlight Tax, to serve visionary people who are self-employed, with relevant tax and financial education, so you can bring your unique vision to the world.

Wednesday, September 13, 2023
Business Morning Update
Sep 13 @ 7:45 am – 9:00 am
Elk's Lodge
Young Professionals Monthly Social
Sep 13 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Dry Falls Brewing Co
Tuesday, September 19, 2023
Securing Loans: An Open Conversation + Guide
Sep 19 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
online

 

Obtaining a loan for property, equipment or growth can be a complex process. In this session, we will break down the steps involved in securing a loan, including evaluating your financial readiness, preparing loan documentation, understanding loan options, and navigating the application process. You will gain practical tips and strategies to increase your chances of success when deciding to apply for a loan. We will also have an open conversation with creatives who have secured loans to grow their business, we will discuss the challenges, the growth they experienced and other thoughts about getting business loans from people who have done it!

Pitch Party
Sep 19 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Southern Appalachian Brewery
Thursday, September 21, 2023
Webinar: Don’t Quit Yet|What You Should Know Before You Put in Your Notice
Sep 21 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
online

Before you put in your notice at your current job, there are important things you should know about job offers.

Special guests:

  • Dan Harpole, Operations Manager for Hollywood Bed
  • Souwan Kiengkham, Human Resources Business Partner for the City of Salisbury
Get Organized: Bookkeeping, Profitability, and Financial Planning
Sep 21 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
online

 

In this workshop, you’ll learn the fundamentals of bookkeeping, creating profit and loss statements, and organizing your finances to make informed decisions for your business’s next steps.

Key Workshop Topics:

  1. Good Bookkeeping Practices: Learn the basics of bookkeeping, including proper record-keeping, categorizing expenses, and tracking income.
  2. Profitability Analysis: Discover how to create a profit and loss statement, analyze financial data, and make strategic decisions to enhance profitability.
  3. Financial Organization: Gain insights into organizing your finances efficiently, including creating a budget, managing cash flow, and implementing effective systems.
Ribbon Cutting: Cano Wealth Strategies
Sep 21 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Cano Wealth Strategies
Tuesday, September 26, 2023
GROW Mills River
Sep 26 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 am
Mills River Brewery
Strategies for Sustainable Expansion + Succession Planning
Sep 26 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
online

Presenter(s): Chris Grasinger + Panelists
Virtual via Zoom

Transitioning out of your business or selling a part of your business can be a complex process. This session will provide guidance on preparing your business for sale, including valuation methods, legal considerations, and marketing strategies. We will also address succession planning, exploring options such as transferring ownership to family members, employee owned, or seeking external buyers. Gain insights into maximizing the value of your business and ensuring a smooth transition for all stakeholders.

Succession Planning and Business Continuity

  • Identifying potential successors and planning for leadership transitions
  • Establishing a comprehensive succession plan and exit strategy
  • Ensuring business continuity and preserving company values
Thursday, September 28, 2023
2023 Holiday Parade Accepting Applications
Sep 28 all-day
online
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer and showcase your creativity! We’re thrilled to invite individuals, organizations, and groups of all kinds to apply for an entry in the upcoming Holiday Parade set to dazzle Downtown Asheville on Saturday, November 18. This year’s theme is “Snow Globe,” offering the perfect canvas for you to bring your winter wonderland dreams to life. This is your chance to be a part of a cherished community tradition that brings joy to thousands of onlookers. Whether you’ve got a beautifully decorated float, a lively marching band, a troupe of dancers, or a group of spirited volunteers, we want you to join us in making this year’s parade the most memorable one yet. It’s not just a parade; it’s an opportunity to make lasting memories and spread the festive spirit. Apply now, and let’s make this holiday season in Asheville truly magical for all!

You can click here to apply for an entry in the Holiday Parade before Monday, October 2.

Employer Registration Open for WNC Career Expo
Sep 28 all-day
WNC Ag. Center

Plan to join us Wednesday, October 25, 2023 from 11 AM – 4 PM at the Davis Event Center at the WNC Agricultural Center, located at 761 Boylston Highway in Fletcher.

Presented by the Mountain Area Workforce Board and the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Western North Carolina businesses and organizations are ready to promote career opportunities for job seekers in advanced manufacturing, technology, health care, tourism, professional services, and other high-growth industries. All job seekers are encouraged to attend this one-stop opportunity to meet directly with representatives from companies hiring now.

 

 

Thank you to our Sponsors!

A-B Tech • Bojangles • iHeart Media • FASTSIGNS of Asheville  • Advanced Business Equipment

Business After Hours
Sep 28 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Boyd Automotive
125th Anniversary Celebration Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce
Sep 28 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce
125 Years: Together for Tomorrow - Chamber Celebration

This year, the Asheville Chamber of Commerce is marking our 125th anniversary by celebrating Asheville Through the Looking Glass. A reflection of business prosperity and success and a connection to Asheville’s future progress and growth.

This lively garden party will commemorate 125 years of the Chamber’s accomplishments, ongoing business partnerships, and the impactful nonprofit work conducted in our community. In honor of our very important date, we plan to award twelve $10,000 grants to nonprofits at our event that support our mission of “Building Community Through Business.”  Whether we look backward, forward, or even down a rabbit hole, the Asheville Chamber sees the importance of supporting businesses in our community.

 

All profit from this event will go to support the 125th Anniversary Grants awarded to local nonprofits. A portion of your ticket will be tax-deductible. We also invite you to support non-profit attendance at the event by purchasing an additional Donated Ticket.

Friday, September 29, 2023
2023 Holiday Parade Accepting Applications
Sep 29 all-day
online
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer and showcase your creativity! We’re thrilled to invite individuals, organizations, and groups of all kinds to apply for an entry in the upcoming Holiday Parade set to dazzle Downtown Asheville on Saturday, November 18. This year’s theme is “Snow Globe,” offering the perfect canvas for you to bring your winter wonderland dreams to life. This is your chance to be a part of a cherished community tradition that brings joy to thousands of onlookers. Whether you’ve got a beautifully decorated float, a lively marching band, a troupe of dancers, or a group of spirited volunteers, we want you to join us in making this year’s parade the most memorable one yet. It’s not just a parade; it’s an opportunity to make lasting memories and spread the festive spirit. Apply now, and let’s make this holiday season in Asheville truly magical for all!

You can click here to apply for an entry in the Holiday Parade before Monday, October 2.

Employer Registration Open for WNC Career Expo
Sep 29 all-day
WNC Ag. Center

Plan to join us Wednesday, October 25, 2023 from 11 AM – 4 PM at the Davis Event Center at the WNC Agricultural Center, located at 761 Boylston Highway in Fletcher.

Presented by the Mountain Area Workforce Board and the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Western North Carolina businesses and organizations are ready to promote career opportunities for job seekers in advanced manufacturing, technology, health care, tourism, professional services, and other high-growth industries. All job seekers are encouraged to attend this one-stop opportunity to meet directly with representatives from companies hiring now.

 

 

Thank you to our Sponsors!

A-B Tech • Bojangles • iHeart Media • FASTSIGNS of Asheville  • Advanced Business Equipment

Email Marketing Bootcamp
Sep 29 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Chamber

Seminar Series: Constant Contact Bootcamp