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.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023
LEAF Fall Festival, ‘Legends of The Americas’: Full schedule announcement
Oct 3 all-day
Lake Eden, Black Mountain, NC

🧡 LET THE HEALING BEGIN:
HEALING ARTS SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED! 🧡

LEAF Global Arts is here for ALL the arts, from music and dance to visual and performance art. Add to that list Healing Arts, which allow us to more deeply experience LEAF Festival — and ourselves! (Look for a reveal of Handcraft Artists & Vendors next week.)

Expand your LEAF weekend with Healing Arts, Movement, and Earth Skills workshops, all with the intention of helping you flow with whatever comes your way. Enjoy flow yoga to live music, nature hikes, dance, music workshops, sound healing, meditation, and more.

“Incredibly excited for the Fall healing arts and earth skills workshop offerings. There is something for everyone, including various types of yoga, meditation, kudzu basket weaving, sound healing, dance,

forest bathing, exploring your personal strengths, and more.

Fill your weekend with self care for your mind, body, and soul.

We are grateful for all the artists coming to LEAF Festival.”

~ Madison, LEAF Vendor Coordinator 

Buy Tickets & Lodging

🎉 READY, SET, LEAF! 🎉

FULL PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE WITH TIMES ANNOUNCED!

“We are beyond thrilled to unveil our meticulously crafted schedule for LEAF’s Fall Festival, ‘Legends of The Americas,’ October 19-22, complete with TIMES and all the latest updates. Every moment has been designed with you in mind, forging connections that transcend borders and ignite the spirit. We call to every soul, near and far, to dive deep into the enchantment that awaits. Let the rhythm of these magical cultures enthrall you, let the melodies tell stories that resonate with the heart.

The world of LEAF beckons — are you ready to witness the magic?

Dive in now!”

~ Otto Vazquez, Artistic Curator

VOTE FOR Appalachian Wild: Animal, Wildlife and Marine Welfare Award
Oct 3 all-day
online

APPALACHIAN WILD AND HELP THE ORGANIZATION WIN A LAND ROVER DEFENDER

VOTE TODAY! 

CLICK HERE TO VOTE

VOTE!

 

 

Wednesday, October 4, 2023
Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Oct 4 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy Programs 2023-2024 Season
Oct 4 all-day
Asheville Performing Arts Academy

2023-2024 Season

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy facilitates a life-long appreciation and advocacy of the arts by providing a loving community where students discover the tools needed to navigate life on and off the stage.

Mission

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy is a school based on unlimited opportunities for students to explore their interests in music, dance, and drama.  We foster a love and appreciation for the arts through student-teacher relationships, which encourage and help you to excel at your dream. We offer high quality instruction and educational experiences because we are committed to the art of teaching and the teaching of the arts.  It is our hope to build art and awareness in the community and provide a home for families to pursue their dreams.

With classes for students of all ages, the Asheville Performing Arts Academy is your place to discover the love of music, drama, and dance in your life.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy… where the arts come alive!

November 10-12, 2023

An APAA Cabaret (Company)

 

December 8-10, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Prep)

 

December 15-17, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Community)

February 2-4, 2024

Mean Girls, Jr.

(Middle School Community)

 

February 9-11, 2024

Mean Girls HS Version

(High School Community)

 

March/April 2024

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Homeschool Academy)

April 25-28, 2024

Little Shop of Horros (Company)

 

May 10-12, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Prep)

 

May 17-19, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Community)

LEAF announces Festival Line Up
Oct 4 all-day
online
LEAF Fall Festival, ‘Legends of The Americas’: Full schedule announcement
Oct 4 all-day
Lake Eden, Black Mountain, NC

🧡 LET THE HEALING BEGIN:
HEALING ARTS SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED! 🧡

LEAF Global Arts is here for ALL the arts, from music and dance to visual and performance art. Add to that list Healing Arts, which allow us to more deeply experience LEAF Festival — and ourselves! (Look for a reveal of Handcraft Artists & Vendors next week.)

Expand your LEAF weekend with Healing Arts, Movement, and Earth Skills workshops, all with the intention of helping you flow with whatever comes your way. Enjoy flow yoga to live music, nature hikes, dance, music workshops, sound healing, meditation, and more.

“Incredibly excited for the Fall healing arts and earth skills workshop offerings. There is something for everyone, including various types of yoga, meditation, kudzu basket weaving, sound healing, dance,

forest bathing, exploring your personal strengths, and more.

Fill your weekend with self care for your mind, body, and soul.

We are grateful for all the artists coming to LEAF Festival.”

~ Madison, LEAF Vendor Coordinator 

Buy Tickets & Lodging

🎉 READY, SET, LEAF! 🎉

FULL PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE WITH TIMES ANNOUNCED!

“We are beyond thrilled to unveil our meticulously crafted schedule for LEAF’s Fall Festival, ‘Legends of The Americas,’ October 19-22, complete with TIMES and all the latest updates. Every moment has been designed with you in mind, forging connections that transcend borders and ignite the spirit. We call to every soul, near and far, to dive deep into the enchantment that awaits. Let the rhythm of these magical cultures enthrall you, let the melodies tell stories that resonate with the heart.

The world of LEAF beckons — are you ready to witness the magic?

Dive in now!”

~ Otto Vazquez, Artistic Curator

VOTE FOR Appalachian Wild: Animal, Wildlife and Marine Welfare Award
Oct 4 all-day
online

APPALACHIAN WILD AND HELP THE ORGANIZATION WIN A LAND ROVER DEFENDER

VOTE TODAY! 

CLICK HERE TO VOTE

VOTE!

 

 

Asheville Parks + Recreation Youth Fall + Winter athletic programs + sports leagues
Oct 4 @ 8:00 am
Various Locations

Flag Football, $15 per player

Registration ends August 30, games begin September 9

Teams divided by ages 6-8, 9-10, 11-12, and 14-16 practice drills for 30 minutes prior to weekly games with two 20 minute halves at Asheville Middle School on 211 South French Broad Avenue.

Softball Clinic, $10 per player

Registration ends September 3, clinics begin September 11

Instructional five-week clinic with divisions for 6-8, 9-10, and 11-12 year-olds teaches fundamentals through drills and scrimmages at Asheville Middle School on 211 South French Broad Avenue with the intent of building a youth softball program in the future.

Youth Archery Class, $25 per archer

Registration ends October 10, class held each Thursday from October 26-November 16

This introductory course teaches individuals 9-12 years-old range safety and proper shooting techniques.

Winter Basketball League, $35 per player

Registration ends October 31, evaluations begin November 6

Age divisions include 5-6 (instructional), 9-10, 11-12, and 13-15.

Fling the Fletch Junior Disc Golf Open, $5 for beginner and $20 for advanced competitive

A local pro teaches a clinic followed by a nine-hole family fun tournament for beginners ages 8-18 and an 18-hole competitive round for advanced players ages 12-16.

Turkey Tee Off Family Mini Golf Tournament, free

Registration ends November 10, tournament on November 18

Enjoy friendly competition with friends and family at Lakeview Putt and Play on 2245 Hendersonville Road.

 

The 2023 Buncombe County Parks and Recreation Scarecrow Contest
Oct 4 @ 8:00 am – 11:30 pm
Lake Julian Park

 

Build your own scarecrow and set at up in Lake Julian Park. Scarecrows can be made of recycled materials, household items, traditional farm materials, repurposed wood, various items found in nature, etc. We just ask scarecrows are not made of any food items.

Registration is open now! Scarecrows can be set up in the park from October 14th-21st. On October 21st Lake Julian will hold its annual Fall-o-ween Festival where Scarecrows will be judged and awarded a 1st, 2nd or 3rd place trophy!

This is a fun family friendly activity for all ages! Great for families, couples, school groups, clubs, offices, teams, and more! We welcome all to celebrate the autumn season and get crafty with the agricultural tradition of making a unique personified sculpture!

Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Oct 4 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

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

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

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

Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival
Oct 4 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
NC Arboretum

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

Creekside Play @ Hickory Nut Gap Farm
Oct 4 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Hickory Nut Gap Farm

STATIONARY FUN – Creekside play area has a treehouse and wee slide ➤ The Big Barn has our Sound Silo full of instruments to play on and make noise, trikes on the trike track around a REAL tractor and cornhole boards(ask the staff for bags) ➤ On the grassy slope behind the Big Barn we’ve got our famous and fast culvert tunnel slides for all ages, hammocks on the hill and tetherball!

Availability: All stationary fun is available every day during business hours of 10-5, starting September 2nd, through the rest of the season- tetherball will be back in action starting September 6th!

ANIMALS TO SEE – We will have a brooder house full of chicks in various ages and stages all season, there will typically be mama pigs and piglets in agritourism pens on the hill, more rarely there will be grazing cattle in a nearby field.

FOOD TRUCK SCHEDULE

9/2 Sat  11-4 Fern Leaf CCS Food Truck

9/16 Sat 11-4 Milk & Honey Food Truck – they will be serving HNG beef for their all-American burger!

9/24 Sun 11-4 *Big Barn Market* Root Down Farm Food Truck

9/30 Sat 11-4 Milk & Honey Food Truck

10/7 Sat 11-4 Fern Leaf CCS Food Truck

10/14 Sat 11-4 Milk & Honey Food Truck

10/15 Sun 11-4 El Bodegon Food Truck

10/22 Sun 11-4 El Bodegon Food Truck

10/29 Sun 11-4 *Big Barn Market* Grush’s Cajun Dino Grill Food Truck

11/4 Sat 11-4 Fern Leaf CCS Food Truck

FALL SEASONAL OFFERINGS

APPLES – Our partners in Edneyville, NC, Lyda Farms, bring some of the best in the region. Local and low spray, folks come every year to get the best of fall in NC by the bag to bake, stew, butter, sauce and of course, crunch into while sitting on the farm.

Availability: Apples will be available to buy starting September 9th, they will typically run out Mid to late October.

FRESH PRESSED CIDER – We press fresh apple cider every year, comprised of our historical orchard apples on the Old Sherrill’s Inn property and apples from our partner Lyda Farms. This is a raw, unpasteurized product – delicious and changeable as the season, no added sugar or seasonings.

Availability: 1st pressing September 13th, bottled cider will be in the store for purchase September 14th!

JACKOLANTERN PUMPKINS – We work with several WNC veggie farmers in the area, including Hawkins Farms. We’ll have pumpkins arranged all around the Farm Store to display their beauty AND make sure you get *just the right one*. The seeds are dynamite when roasted, too…

Availability: Coming Mid-September, they will typically run out by end of October so make sure you get yours! 

EDIBLE SQUASH & DECORATIVE GOURDS – From Mr. Anthony Cole’s farms, we have some long-lasting festive gourds to decoarate for the season, and a broad variety of edible squashes and pumpkins perfect for pies, soups and pasta.

Availability: Coming Mid-September.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion
Oct 4 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ALONG SIDE THE BEAUTIFUL NANTAHALA RIVER ON OUR NANTAHALA GORGE EXCURSION! DEPARTING FROM BRYSON CITY, THIS 4½ HOUR ROUNDTRIP EXCURSION CARRIES YOU 44 MILES TO THE NANTAHALA GORGE AND BACK AGAIN ARRIVING AT OUR BRYSON CITY DEPOT.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Onboard dining is available in First Class Seating and selecting from our  First Class Dinning menu options OR you can pre-purchase a box lunch option to make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing!

Itinerary

30m before departure Boarding begins at Bryson City Depot
See schedule for departure time Depart Bryson City, NC
1h 45m Reach top of the line
2h 00m Begin return
2h 30m—3h 30m Layover
3h 30m Depart Layover
4h 30m Arrive at Bryson City Depot
Time from Departure Activity
Kids Storytime at Barnes and Noble
Oct 4 @ 11:00 am
Barnes and Noble

Kids Storytime at Barnes and Noble

Family Ukulele Lessons with Asheville Ukulele Society
Oct 4 @ 5:00 pm – 5:45 pm
East Asheville Library

Come learn to play the ukulele with the Asheville Ukulele Society. Lessons are free, but space is limited. To register, sign up at the library front desk or call 828-250-4738.

Open to everyone elementary school-age & up. Parents of children ages 15 & under must attend with their children. Parents of teens are encouraged to come learn together!

Parkway Playhouse-Willy Wonka JR
Oct 4 @ 6:30 pm
Parkway Playhouse

November 3-11, 2023

Directed by Jenny Martin
Music Direction by Roberta Whiteside
Choreography by Melanie Veazey

Thursday, October 5, 2023
Asheville Performing Arts Academy Programs 2023-2024 Season
Oct 5 all-day
Asheville Performing Arts Academy

2023-2024 Season

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy facilitates a life-long appreciation and advocacy of the arts by providing a loving community where students discover the tools needed to navigate life on and off the stage.

Mission

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy is a school based on unlimited opportunities for students to explore their interests in music, dance, and drama.  We foster a love and appreciation for the arts through student-teacher relationships, which encourage and help you to excel at your dream. We offer high quality instruction and educational experiences because we are committed to the art of teaching and the teaching of the arts.  It is our hope to build art and awareness in the community and provide a home for families to pursue their dreams.

With classes for students of all ages, the Asheville Performing Arts Academy is your place to discover the love of music, drama, and dance in your life.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy… where the arts come alive!

November 10-12, 2023

An APAA Cabaret (Company)

 

December 8-10, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Prep)

 

December 15-17, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Community)

February 2-4, 2024

Mean Girls, Jr.

(Middle School Community)

 

February 9-11, 2024

Mean Girls HS Version

(High School Community)

 

March/April 2024

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Homeschool Academy)

April 25-28, 2024

Little Shop of Horros (Company)

 

May 10-12, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Prep)

 

May 17-19, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Community)

LEAF Fall Festival, ‘Legends of The Americas’: Full schedule announcement
Oct 5 all-day
Lake Eden, Black Mountain, NC

🧡 LET THE HEALING BEGIN:
HEALING ARTS SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED! 🧡

LEAF Global Arts is here for ALL the arts, from music and dance to visual and performance art. Add to that list Healing Arts, which allow us to more deeply experience LEAF Festival — and ourselves! (Look for a reveal of Handcraft Artists & Vendors next week.)

Expand your LEAF weekend with Healing Arts, Movement, and Earth Skills workshops, all with the intention of helping you flow with whatever comes your way. Enjoy flow yoga to live music, nature hikes, dance, music workshops, sound healing, meditation, and more.

“Incredibly excited for the Fall healing arts and earth skills workshop offerings. There is something for everyone, including various types of yoga, meditation, kudzu basket weaving, sound healing, dance,

forest bathing, exploring your personal strengths, and more.

Fill your weekend with self care for your mind, body, and soul.

We are grateful for all the artists coming to LEAF Festival.”

~ Madison, LEAF Vendor Coordinator 

Buy Tickets & Lodging

🎉 READY, SET, LEAF! 🎉

FULL PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE WITH TIMES ANNOUNCED!

“We are beyond thrilled to unveil our meticulously crafted schedule for LEAF’s Fall Festival, ‘Legends of The Americas,’ October 19-22, complete with TIMES and all the latest updates. Every moment has been designed with you in mind, forging connections that transcend borders and ignite the spirit. We call to every soul, near and far, to dive deep into the enchantment that awaits. Let the rhythm of these magical cultures enthrall you, let the melodies tell stories that resonate with the heart.

The world of LEAF beckons — are you ready to witness the magic?

Dive in now!”

~ Otto Vazquez, Artistic Curator

Plott-Tober Fest
Oct 5 all-day
Sorrells Park, downtown Canton

Schedule of Events

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5 – FREE EVENT! 


3:15 PM – Plott-Tober Fest Opening Ceremony & Welcome​

  • Mike McLean – President, Haywood County Historical & Genealogical Society

  • Richard Hurley – Emcee, Plott-Tober Fest

  • FEATURED SPEAKERS:

    • Pat Smathers – Cruso Fund

    • Zeb Smathers – Mayor, Town of Canton

    • Jim Trantham – Mayor, Town of Clyde

    • Mike Eveland – Mayor, Town of Maggie Valley

    • Gary Caldwell – Mayor, Town of Waynesville

    • Bob Plott – Our State Dog – The Plott Hound

4:00 – 7 pm – Milltown Farmers Market

  • A collection of local farmers and artisans celebrating local food, music, and community

  • Music featuring the Steubenville Tootlers – The best German Band Music this side of
    Frankfurt

  • BearWaters Brewery Celebrating Plott-Tober Fest with Dutch Cove Hefeweisen

  • Haus Heidelberg German Cuisine

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6 – HISTORY DAY – TICKETED EVENT


9:30 am – 8:30 pm – Ticket Sales at Main Entrance
10 am – 4 pm – German Roots Registration (HCH&GS & Canton Historical Museum Booth)
12 noon – 1 pm Plott Hound History – Bob Plott
1 pm – 3 pm Haywood County’s German Roots (Heritage Tent)
3 pm – 4 pm Kids Activities at Splash Pad
10 am – 4 pm Free Shuttle to the Museum of Haywood County History in Clyde for Free Exhibits
(Departs from Sorrells 
Street Park every hour from 10 am & last return to Sorrells Street Park at 4 pm)

Live Music: 
10 am – 1 pm – The Steubenville Tootlers – The best German Band Music this side of Frankfurt
4 pm – 5 pm – Acoustic Songwriters: Beth Lee and Nick Dauphanais 
5 pm – 6 pm – Acoustic Bluegrass: Brew Davis and Nick Dauphanais
6:30 pm – 7: 30 pm – Appalachian Heritage Music: William Ritter & Tim McWilliams
7:30 pm – The JackTown Ramblers – 4-piece American Bluegrass, Swing, & Gypsy Jazz band


10 am – 10 pm Food Trucks – Vendors – WNC Organizations
Bearwaters Brewery Celebrating Plott-Tober Fest with Dutch Cove Hefeweisen
Haus Heidelberg German Cuisine

​SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 – PLOTT FEST – TICKETED EVENT


9:00 am – 8:30 pm Ticket Sales at Main Entrance

Plott Fest: 

  • 9 am – 11:30 am Dog Registration

  • 9:30 am – ONE DOG & TWO DOG MECHANICAL BEAR BAY

  • 10:30 am – 3 DOG MECHANICAL BEAR BAY

  • 11:30 am – COON TREEING EVENT

  • 12:30 pm – UKC BENCH SHOW

  • 3:30 pm – Plott Hound Roundtable hosted by Bob Plott

  • 4:30 pm – PRESENTATION OF AWARDS (METHVEN AWARD, R.H. PLOTT MEMORIAL AWARD, PERSON DOING MOST FOR PLOTT BREED AWARD, PLOTT PATRIOT AWARD) ON STAGE

  • 4:45 pm – Raffle Drawing

10 am – 4 pm Free Shuttle to the Museum of Haywood County History in Clyde for Free Exhibits(Departs from Sorrells Street Park every hour from 10 am & last return to Sorrells Street Park at 4 pm)

1 pm – 5 pm Kids Activities at Splash Pad

1 pm – 3 pm – Heritage Craft Demonstration Tents:

  • BLACKSMITHING – David Burnette

  • HIDE TANNING – Charles Brown

  • FLINTLOCK RIFLES – Dana Ballinger

Live Music & Dance: 
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm – J. Creek Cloggers
2:30 pm – 3:15 pm – Daniel Johnston – Acoustic Music Songwriter
6:15 pm – 7: 00 pm Richard Hurley – Award Winning Singer/Songwriter
7:00 – An Evening of Bluegrass
with Darren Nicholson, Marc Pruett, Reed Jones, & Audie Blaylock


10 am – 10 pm Food Trucks – Vendors – WNC Organizations
Bearwaters Brewery Celebrating Plott-Tober Fest with Dutch Cove Hefeweisen
Haus Heidelberg German Cuisine

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8 – FREE EVENT!
1:30 pm – 4 pm – Shaped Note Singing Demonstration
Morning Star United Methodist Church
2535 Dutch Cove Road
Canton, NC 28716
June Smathers Jolley & Friends will be singing from the Christian Harmony Songbook, published in 1873.  Loaner books will be available for those who would like to learn to sing using the shaped-note system.

The Moonshiners Reunion + Mountain Music Festival
Oct 5 all-day
Plum Hollow

Moonshiners Reunion

The Moonshiners Reunion & Mountain Music Festival is ALWAYS held the first full weekend in October!

(Thursday, Friday, and Saturday)

 

Dedicated to keeping the moonshining spirit alive, the Moonshiner’s Reunion is one of the Appalachian region’s most authentic annual folk music celebrations. The gates open at noon on Thursday. Check back here often for more details!

This event is the inspiration of musician Barney Barnwell, whose career path was as winding and steeped in local color as the Moonshiner’s trail leading to the copper pot corn whisky still. Listening to tales of the Moonshiners of the 30’s and 40’s, many of them relatives, Barney saluted these outlaws of yesteryear by writing and performing songs about their ways, myths, and unique contributions. Barnwell was also instrumental in getting South Carolina Educational Television to film a documentary on moonshining in the foothills, featuring none other than the Barnwell Clan. We are dedicated to keeping his memory, his music and his tales alive with this festival, so join us for a weekend you will never forget!

Plum Hollow Farm (also known as Woodstick), which lies near South Carolina’s “Dark Corners”, one of America’s moonshining hot spots, provides a unique and beautiful setting for the festival. A covered bandstand and gentle hillside sets the stage for laying on a quilt and getting comfortable when the music begins. Bring your lawn chair, your tent, your RV. Just remember no glass of any kind is allowed!

Want to know how to get to Plum Hollow? Click Here For Directions.

Camping

The surrounding woods are always popular for camping, whether it be an RV or a tepee, and everyone is encouraged to bring their instruments so they can join in the “all night pickin’” as in years past. Although we don’t have hook-ups we do have a shower house and camping is included in the price of the ticket. Absolutely NO pets of any kind, glass containers, 4/wheelers, modified golf carts, drones or fireworks allowed. Campsites are first come, first serve, except for Sponsors and Bands and some select spots at the “Top of the Hill”. If you are interested in a reserved campsite these must be paid in advance. Please call (864) 357-0222 or (864) 585-0780 for more information or to reserve your spot today! No one will be allowed into the festival until the gates open at noon on Thursday (except sponsors, bands or press).

No one will be allowed into the festival until the gates open at noon on Thursday, except sponsors and bands.

We also have rustic cabins for rent. Festival sponsors or bands have first choice but after that it’s a first come first serve basis. Some cabins will sleep 6 to a room, while other cabin suites include hand carved double beds and only sleep 2. Whether you are looking for privacy with a cabin suite or want to spend the weekend with a group in the regular cabins, each one rents for $100.00 per night and must be rented for all 3 nights. Please call (864) 357-0222 for availability. Also, see our media gallery for photos of the cabins.

Golf Carts

If anyone is interested in renting a golf cart for the Moonshiners Reunion, please contact Brittany at Golf Cart Services. Although we are not affiliated with them, they’re our official vendor of golf carts. PLEASE make sure you rent a cart with working lights. We do not allow golf carts to be used at night without working lights. Please call (864) 574-4616. Ext. 209

Vendors

The only vendors accepted at the Moonshiners Reunion are exhibitors/vendors of true Southern Heritage articles, such as broom making, wood carving, soap making, pottery, etc. These Folk artisans are strongly encouraged to bring their wares, and may set up and sell for $150.00 & the price of a gate ticket. Also must set up arrangements at least one week in advance.There are no electrical hookups for vendors so you must be self-contained. Vendors are allowed to set-up in the concert area if you wish, but you must be set-up before Thursday evening and plan on staying all weekend. No vehicles are allowed in or out of the concert area after the festival begins. If you are needing more details please feel free to call us at (864) 357-0222.

Tickets

Ticket price is per person and includes camping, parking and all concerts. Ticket prices are for all ages. Tickets may be purchased at the gate. Sponsors & Bands are welcome to come early any time the week of event. Just call in advance to let us know so we can arrange for someone to help you.

** NOTE: we do not manufacture, distribute or sell any alcohol (moonshine) at our venue

Once Again, we thank everyone who participates in making this such a memorable event. Where else can you enjoy moonshining folklore and great music while surrounded by great friends and the Blue Ridge Mountains!

Asheville Parks + Recreation Youth Fall + Winter athletic programs + sports leagues
Oct 5 @ 8:00 am
Various Locations

Flag Football, $15 per player

Registration ends August 30, games begin September 9

Teams divided by ages 6-8, 9-10, 11-12, and 14-16 practice drills for 30 minutes prior to weekly games with two 20 minute halves at Asheville Middle School on 211 South French Broad Avenue.

Softball Clinic, $10 per player

Registration ends September 3, clinics begin September 11

Instructional five-week clinic with divisions for 6-8, 9-10, and 11-12 year-olds teaches fundamentals through drills and scrimmages at Asheville Middle School on 211 South French Broad Avenue with the intent of building a youth softball program in the future.

Youth Archery Class, $25 per archer

Registration ends October 10, class held each Thursday from October 26-November 16

This introductory course teaches individuals 9-12 years-old range safety and proper shooting techniques.

Winter Basketball League, $35 per player

Registration ends October 31, evaluations begin November 6

Age divisions include 5-6 (instructional), 9-10, 11-12, and 13-15.

Fling the Fletch Junior Disc Golf Open, $5 for beginner and $20 for advanced competitive

A local pro teaches a clinic followed by a nine-hole family fun tournament for beginners ages 8-18 and an 18-hole competitive round for advanced players ages 12-16.

Turkey Tee Off Family Mini Golf Tournament, free

Registration ends November 10, tournament on November 18

Enjoy friendly competition with friends and family at Lakeview Putt and Play on 2245 Hendersonville Road.

 

The 2023 Buncombe County Parks and Recreation Scarecrow Contest
Oct 5 @ 8:00 am – 11:30 pm
Lake Julian Park

 

Build your own scarecrow and set at up in Lake Julian Park. Scarecrows can be made of recycled materials, household items, traditional farm materials, repurposed wood, various items found in nature, etc. We just ask scarecrows are not made of any food items.

Registration is open now! Scarecrows can be set up in the park from October 14th-21st. On October 21st Lake Julian will hold its annual Fall-o-ween Festival where Scarecrows will be judged and awarded a 1st, 2nd or 3rd place trophy!

This is a fun family friendly activity for all ages! Great for families, couples, school groups, clubs, offices, teams, and more! We welcome all to celebrate the autumn season and get crafty with the agricultural tradition of making a unique personified sculpture!

Biltmore Estate: Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display
Oct 5 @ 8:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Included with admission

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

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

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

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

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

Creekside Play @ Hickory Nut Gap Farm
Oct 5 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Hickory Nut Gap Farm

STATIONARY FUN – Creekside play area has a treehouse and wee slide ➤ The Big Barn has our Sound Silo full of instruments to play on and make noise, trikes on the trike track around a REAL tractor and cornhole boards(ask the staff for bags) ➤ On the grassy slope behind the Big Barn we’ve got our famous and fast culvert tunnel slides for all ages, hammocks on the hill and tetherball!

Availability: All stationary fun is available every day during business hours of 10-5, starting September 2nd, through the rest of the season- tetherball will be back in action starting September 6th!

ANIMALS TO SEE – We will have a brooder house full of chicks in various ages and stages all season, there will typically be mama pigs and piglets in agritourism pens on the hill, more rarely there will be grazing cattle in a nearby field.

FOOD TRUCK SCHEDULE

9/2 Sat  11-4 Fern Leaf CCS Food Truck

9/16 Sat 11-4 Milk & Honey Food Truck – they will be serving HNG beef for their all-American burger!

9/24 Sun 11-4 *Big Barn Market* Root Down Farm Food Truck

9/30 Sat 11-4 Milk & Honey Food Truck

10/7 Sat 11-4 Fern Leaf CCS Food Truck

10/14 Sat 11-4 Milk & Honey Food Truck

10/15 Sun 11-4 El Bodegon Food Truck

10/22 Sun 11-4 El Bodegon Food Truck

10/29 Sun 11-4 *Big Barn Market* Grush’s Cajun Dino Grill Food Truck

11/4 Sat 11-4 Fern Leaf CCS Food Truck

FALL SEASONAL OFFERINGS

APPLES – Our partners in Edneyville, NC, Lyda Farms, bring some of the best in the region. Local and low spray, folks come every year to get the best of fall in NC by the bag to bake, stew, butter, sauce and of course, crunch into while sitting on the farm.

Availability: Apples will be available to buy starting September 9th, they will typically run out Mid to late October.

FRESH PRESSED CIDER – We press fresh apple cider every year, comprised of our historical orchard apples on the Old Sherrill’s Inn property and apples from our partner Lyda Farms. This is a raw, unpasteurized product – delicious and changeable as the season, no added sugar or seasonings.

Availability: 1st pressing September 13th, bottled cider will be in the store for purchase September 14th!

JACKOLANTERN PUMPKINS – We work with several WNC veggie farmers in the area, including Hawkins Farms. We’ll have pumpkins arranged all around the Farm Store to display their beauty AND make sure you get *just the right one*. The seeds are dynamite when roasted, too…

Availability: Coming Mid-September, they will typically run out by end of October so make sure you get yours! 

EDIBLE SQUASH & DECORATIVE GOURDS – From Mr. Anthony Cole’s farms, we have some long-lasting festive gourds to decoarate for the season, and a broad variety of edible squashes and pumpkins perfect for pies, soups and pasta.

Availability: Coming Mid-September.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion
Oct 5 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ALONG SIDE THE BEAUTIFUL NANTAHALA RIVER ON OUR NANTAHALA GORGE EXCURSION! DEPARTING FROM BRYSON CITY, THIS 4½ HOUR ROUNDTRIP EXCURSION CARRIES YOU 44 MILES TO THE NANTAHALA GORGE AND BACK AGAIN ARRIVING AT OUR BRYSON CITY DEPOT.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Onboard dining is available in First Class Seating and selecting from our  First Class Dinning menu options OR you can pre-purchase a box lunch option to make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing!

Itinerary

30m before departure Boarding begins at Bryson City Depot
See schedule for departure time Depart Bryson City, NC
1h 45m Reach top of the line
2h 00m Begin return
2h 30m—3h 30m Layover
3h 30m Depart Layover
4h 30m Arrive at Bryson City Depot
Time from Departure Activity
Kolo Bike Park Afterschool Club
Oct 5 @ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Adventure Center of Asheville

It’s back! Our Kolo Bike Park monthly after-school club runs every Tuesday & Thursday afternoon for ages 6-13 from 3-6 pm.

This club is for our local shredders to keep riding and growing their mountain bike skills all year long. This club is NOT to teach children how to ride and it is a requirement that they enjoy biking and can successfully ride their bike off-road before joining. Our highly skilled and trained staff will help campers working on bike handling and riding all the features and trails our 125-acre park has to offer.

  • $350 per camper per month
  • Runs Tuesdays and Thursdays in October, and November. Please note that you need to purchase a membership for EACH month!
  • $20 discount for either multiple months or for each multiple campers (you may not stack discounts, sorry!)
  • We run rain or shine! If it is too muddy to ride, we will adjust programming for bike maintenance lessons, alternative activities, etc.
  • Campers must bring their own bike, helmet, water bottle, snack, and any protective gear each day
  •  A $25 cancellation fee will be charged in canceled less than 2 weeks before the first session.
  • No refunds for cancellations made within 2 weeks of the first session!

You may book online or call our office at 828.225.2921.  To book online choose October 3 for the October Club and November 2 for the November Club.

Sklyand Library LEGO HOUR
Oct 5 @ 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Skyland/South Buncombe Library

Join us for free-form LEGO building every other Thursday afternoon, at 3:30pm!  All ages 5 and up are welcome, but anyone under 10 years old will need to be accompanied by a caregiver.

LEGO is provided.  Please leave your personal bricks at home.

EcoExplore – Arachnology Season
Oct 5 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Leicester Library

Join us for an educational program with the North Carolina Arboretum to learn all about the many different arachnids that call Western North Carolina their home! Did you know Arachnids include more than just Spiders? Come ready to hear about the ecoEXPLORE program, the many different types of arachnids, where they live, what they eat, plus much more!

Intergenerational Lego Club-East Asheville Library
Oct 5 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
East Asheville Library

Intergenerational Lego Club

Have fun building a unique creation with Legos at the East Asheville Public Library!
Flex your Lego building skills and make some friends while you’re at it.
Please leave your personal Legos at home because we’ve got plenty.

Open to all ages 5 & up.

For questions call 828-250-4738.