Calendar of Events

Join Reiki Master Teacher and Yoga Nidra Facilitator, Kate Wargo of Woven Light in a soothing Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep) practice guiding you into the “in-between”; that space between being awake and asleep. Within this space, a dream will be induced taking you into a state of consciousness that can bring about immense healing in your conscious, subconscious, and unconscious mind.

The cave will transform into a “Nidra Nest” with comfy reclining loungers, blankets, and bolsters to fully support you, whether sitting or lying down, for the entire experience.

During this experience, Kate will also offer Reiki to those who desire it. Reiki feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. This divine energy treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind, and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security, and well-being.
Release stuck emotions, rest, and rejuvenate!

After months of dedicated service providing over 1 million meals to Asheville and surrounding areas in partnership with World Central Kitchen (WCK), Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ is gearing up for an exciting grand reopening on Saturday, March 29. As WCK operations wind down on their property, Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ has fired up its own kitchen once again, welcoming guests back with its signature flavors and community-driven spirit.

To commemorate this milestone and bid farewell to the post-hurricane relief efforts, Bear’s Smokehouse is throwing an unforgettable event: “To Hell with Helene.” This free community celebration will feature an evening of live music, comedy, food, and fun as a way to reflect, release, and rebuild.

Event Highlights:

 Live Performance by LYRIC – Kicking off at 5:00 PM
 Special Guest: Comedian Cayla Clark
 Pie Eating Contest
 Axe Throwing
 Mechanical Bull Rides
 Burning of Negativity – Guests can write down what they want to release from the hurricane’s aftermath and “burn” it on-site.
 DJ Set & Dance Party – Instructor-led dance party starts at 8:30 PM

Now in its fourth year, The Prom Dress Exchange is continuing to help anyone feel fancy and fabulous for free! 1,600 formal and semi formal dresses size 00-4XL, as well as women’s suits and separates, shoes, jewelry and all the accessories are available at no charge. I also have a limited number of tuxedos, as well as men’s suits, slacks, shirts, vests and accessories to offer. Whether you are going to the prom or another spring dance, wedding, or anywhere you need special attire, “The Prom Dress Exchange” has got what you need to make the occasion magical!

The event is March 28-30 at Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd Asheville NC, 28805, Friday 2-6, Saturday 10-6, Sunday 1-5.

Donations accepted – volunteers welcome – sewist needed
Contact Marsha van Rijssen (828)545-3133 [email protected]

A playful night of storytelling, surprises, and art-inspired mischief!
When the gallery closes for the night, the stories come out to play! Join Gallery Tales founder, Kate Wargo, for a special April Fools edition of Pranks, Plots, & Playful Tales—where artwork takes on a life of its own and every story has a surprise twist.
Young writers (ages 8-13) and their family will explore the gallery, find inspiration in the artwork, and craft their own Trickster Tale—full of pranks, unexpected turns, and clever characters! Will your story pull off the ultimate trick, flip the script, or leave the audience guessing?
🎨 Art Speaks: Pick a piece of artwork—what if it’s hiding a secret, playing a joke, or telling a different story than it seems?
✍️ The Trickster’s Challenge: Start writing, but beware! A surprise storytelling twist might shake things up!
🎤 The Night Owl Mic: Share your tricky tale (if you want) in a cozy, welcoming space.
Join us for 90 minutes of creativity, fun, and storytelling shenanigans! Just remember… in a Trickster Tale, anything can happen!
✨ For young writers ages 8-13 who love a good story and a little bit of fun!
**Bring a notebook, pen/pencil, and your imagination!
www.gallerytales.com to learn more about Gallery Tales Kids Spring and Summer creative writing and visual arts series

FSI’s TEDxYouth organization has organized an upcoming TEDx conference at the NC Stage on April 1st at 6pm. Seats are first come first served! The overarching theme of the 2025 conference is “What If?
” With the theme “What If,” we invite speakers to reimagine what particular systems, or their lives could look like if they had made a different choice.

Topics for talks will range from personal to global, exploring themes in the past, present, or future. There will be a main focus on decisions and the butterfly effect, and we hope to leave audience members with a sense of possibility.

TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to ideas worth spreading. Started as a four-day conference in California 30 years ago, the organization has grown to support its mission through multiple initiatives and independently organized events. The Franklin School of Innovation’s TEDxYouthFSI chapter is the only youth chapter of TEDx in the Asheville area. This event is organized entirely by students.

Find more information at https://www.tedxyouthfsi.com/

The house opens at 5:25 PM
Seats are first come, first served. Tickets available online or $15 at the door.
This is not one to miss, these TEDxYouth events are so good!

Hurricane Helene Recovery Panel & Discussion with MountainTrue

Thursday, April 3  |  5 – 8pm

Join MountainTrue and a panel of experts to discuss recovery in our area after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Panelists will address the impacts of natural disasters, what recovery means for our region, and how the community can support these efforts.

This event is free of charge, but if you feel moved to make a donation to support critical work in our area, we invite you to do so when you register. The North Carolina Arboretum is generously donating use of the Education Auditorium for this event. All donations associated with the registration of this event will be split 50/50 with the NC Arboretum.

The event will kick-off with social time from 5:30 to 6 pm with snacks and beverages provided for attendees. The panel will run from 6 to 7:30 pm.

Co-Existing with Black Bears with Tanya Poole

Wednesday, April 9  |  5 – 6 pm

It’s spring and you know what that means. Warmer temperatures, beautiful flowers and trees blooming, people venturing out to enjoy it all. And it turns out black bears are coming out in large numbers to enjoy the same things that humans enjoy. Learn about the conditions that contribute to the black bear population continuing to thrive in Western North Carolina in proximity to so many people. Tanya Poole, Conservation Initiatives Engagement Coordinator with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, discusses BearWise strategies recommended by wildlife experts that will help people better coexist with these amazing animals.

WNC COMMUNITY It is time to reset your nervous system, as we invite you to ground in with us. These past months have been a whirlwind of emotions, challenges and unsettling times for our community. Have the fires made it troublesome for your body and lungs? We got you! We are here to ground in together and heal our community.

Deep breaths inside the salt caves
Sip on some herbal hot tea
Archetype Essential oil readings
Enjoy a 10 minute massage
Labyrinth walk meditation and time in the gardens
15% OFF in our gift shop

Sliding Scale $10-$40+ Pay at the door.
Please bring clean socks!
No appointment needed

Local, regional, and national organizations will present information and ideas about advocacy and volunteer opportunities. Q&A and social hour will follow. Food and drinks will be available. Free and all are welcome!

Free to the public! No registration necessary.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, communities across Western North Carolina are facing significant challenges in recovery. With widespread tree loss, increased fire risks, and the need for careful rebuilding, having the right information and resources is essential.

Bullington Gardens and Family Tree Care are hosting a series of free educational events to help landowners, homeowners, and community members navigate the recovery process. These sessions will provide expert guidance on safety, cost-effective solutions, and long-term strategies to restore and protect our forests and landscapes.

Session 1: From Debris to Renewal: A Post-Storm Action Plan

Friday, April 4 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM-Lunch provided

Fire Hazard Reduction Post-Helene Learn about the increased fire risks caused by fallen trees and discover practical steps to protect your property. (Presented by the Fire Department)

Tree Risk Assessment & Tomography Testing

See a live demonstration of advanced tree risk assessment techniques, including tomography testing, to evaluate tree health and stability. (Presented by Bill Hascher, Biltmore)

Managing Mass Tree Fall Cost-Effectively

Explore strategies for dealing with extensive tree damage while understanding costs. This session includes a live demonstration of a Forest Mulcher in action, removing debris up to 16 inches in diameter. (Presented by Kris Wetmore, Family Tree Care) •

Hiring the Right Company

Learn how to choose a reliable tree care service, including what to look for in insurance, licensing, and credentials. (Presented by Steve Pettis, NC Cooperative Extension Agent.)

Session 2: Sunday, April 13 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Rebuilding Bullington & Planning for the Future

Discover how Bullington Gardens is restoring its landscape and how you can apply similar principles to your own property. (Presented by Annie Higgins, Director of Bullington Gardens)

Chainsaw Safety & Choosing the Right Saw

A hands-on session covering chainsaw safety, proper handling techniques, and selecting the best equipment for your needs. Safety gear and chaps will be provided. Participants must register for the hands-on portion of this class. (Presented by Chris Moore, 4×4 Country)

Managing Mass Tree Fall Cost-Effectively part 2

Explore strategies for dealing with extensive tree damage while understanding costs. (Presented by Kris Wetmore, Family Tree Care.)

Friday, April 4 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Sunday, April 13 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Bullington Gardens, 95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville, NC 28792

Whether you’re a homeowner, land manager, or someone who cares about the environment, these workshops will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to recover and rebuild.

Join us in shaping a stronger, more resilient Western North Carolina!

Join us in the beautiful neighborhood of Olivette for an outdoor concert featuring two fantastic folk groups: A Different Thread and The Wilder Flower. $25 – Kids are free!

British-American troubadours A Different Thread create richly emotive tapestry of transatlantic folk. Lead singers Robert Jackson (Midlands, UK) and Alicia Best (North Carolina) first met busking in Ireland. Their chance encounter sparked a musical journey that has spanned over nine years, a dozen countries, and two studio albums— capturing the love of two folk singers chasing their dreams on the road.

The Wilder Flower, featuring Danielle Yother on guitar, Molly Johnson on banjo, and Madeline Dierauf on fiddle, encompasses a fresh take on rural Appalachian music. Together they blend modern influences with their deep roots of old time & bluegrass. Their songs are filled with three-part harmonies, tight instrumental blends, and storytelling.

Get ready to move, get inspired, and get your game on!

Discover your inner athlete and ignite your path to wellness at the Asheville Sports + Fitness Fair presented by Asheville Parks & Recreation! Step into the recently renovated Memorial Stadium as it transforms into a vibrant hub of energy showcasing the world of local sports leagues, fitness opportunities, and healthy living.

Explore youth and adult sports leagues, learn about organizations focused on wellness and active living, and discover a wealth of resources dedicated to improving well-being. Uncover hidden gems in the local fitness scene and learn about exciting new ways to stay active and engaged.

At 6pm, join the City of Asheville for a special ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony celebrating the renovation of Memorial Stadium and revitalization of Mountainside Park. It’s a chance to be part of Asheville’s commitment to health and recreation.
If your organization is interested in participating in the fair, please email [email protected]. Space is limited.

The purpose of the Hendo Earth Fest is to promote community education for all ages on environmental and sustainable practices, inspire action, and renew and expand commitments to protect our planet. Local and regional environmental allies focus on participation/hands-on activities and demonstrations designed to educate, renew and expand action to protect our Western North Carolina environment and natural resources. In our first inaugural 2023 festival, we saw approximately 2,000+ participants!

Come on out and support our local people! Local artisans, crafts, produce, specialty foods, skin care, ets.

Grand Opening of Asheville’s ONLY professional Obstacle Course Race Training Center! Stop by and try out the new obstacles, enjoy food, fun, games, and giveaways. Great for the whole family!

Celebrate Easter brunch with the whole family at Kanuga! Enjoy a delicious selection of seasonal favorites, including fresh pastries, savory entrees, and delicious desserts. Gather with loved ones in a warm and welcoming setting as we celebrate this special day together.

Every other month we host a gathering to share what we are doing to RESIST the current attacks on our country, CONNECT with others and strengthen community, and REBUILD the broken pieces of our democracy.

EVERYONE who cares about democracy is invited. Join us!

This month we’ll have updates from our new action teams, including info on specific actions and events, plus updates on upcoming community service projects and other ways to get involved. We’ll also have a mini-training in individual rights and safety tips for taking part in public protests, plus info on an upcoming training in civil disobedience.

Bring your questions and ideas, hopes and dreams. We want your input. We can get through this when we work together!

If your organization is interested in collaborating with us, please reach out, and be sure to join us Tuesday if you can.

Check-in/happy hour: 5:30-6 pm. For those who can’t attend in person, the meeting will be livestreamed starting at 6 pm. Visit youtube.com/@indivisibleavl/streams.

Event is free but tickets are REQUIRED.

Price:
Free: USD 0.00

You’re invited to join CenterWell Senior Primary Care as we celebrate the opening of our new center in Asheville. Come see how CenterWell delivers primary care centered on seniors! Join us and meet the CenterWell physician and Care Team, tour our senior primary care center and enjoy free music, food, giveaways and more. Plus, meet Mister Moon, the mascot from the Asheville Tourists! We look forward to seeing you there!

Wortham Presents The Magic of Jeki Yoo

In collaboration with Pardee Hospital Foundation and Hunter Subaru, we are thrilled to present the 2nd Annual She Slays 5K. This event is all about celebrating the strength, courage, and fierce determination of women fighting cancer. Whether you walk or run, you’re making a difference for those who are in the midst of this battle. This event aims to empower people to take charge of their health and well-being, while also raising funds for Hendersonville women who are fighting cancer.

While this event supports women with cancer, everyone is welcome to participate!

Join Blue Ridge Roller Derby for a double header featuring a Blue Ridge Junior Roller Derby match up followed by an adult competitive bout against the Soul City Sirens of Augusta, Georgia.

When: Saturday, April 26, at 3 p.m.
Where: Smoky Mountain Event Center (758 Crabtree Rd, Waynesville, NC 28785)

Event Schedule:
2:00 p.m. Doors Open
3:00 p.m. Juniors Exhibition Bout
5:00 p.m. BRRD vs. the Soul City Sirens

All ages welcome. Admission to this special double header is free but donations will be gladly accepted.

BRRD is a non-profit organization that relies on the support of our community to provide action-packed, family-friendly fun on four wheels.

Come visit The Blood Connection for a blood drive on Thursday, May 1, from 10 am to 3 pm. Look for The Blood Connection mobile unit in front of the hospital at 100 Hospital Drive. Look for The Blood Connection Mobile Donor Unit near the Valet parking lot.
All donors will receive a standard $20 e-gift card, and an additional $20 e-gift card – $40
in rewards! To make an appointment, visit thebloodconnection.org and search for the Sponsor Code
23AC.

Law Day, Thursday May 1, 2025, 12-1p.m.
Join Local Lawyers as they Retake their Oath to Defend the Constitution and host a non-partisan rally with featured speakers in support of the Rule of Law and Judicial Independence.
The oath is the cornerstone of the legal profession, and it represents the promise to support the Constitution of the United States. It encompasses a duty to defend the Constitution, protect constitutional rights, ensure due process, and oppose laws or actions that undermine it. By retaking the oath, local attorneys will be reiterating their role as a guardian of the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law.
Asheville will join cities across the Country on Law Day May 1 standing for the Rule of Law. For a full listing of participating cities, see https://lawdayofaction.org/

Inaugural Program of the Four-Part Series “What Can Become of Us?”
Co-presented by Stanford Institute for Advancing Just Societies, Zócalo Public Square, and Asheville Art Museum

Moderated by Tomás Jiménez, Founding Faculty Co-Director, Stanford Institute for Advancing Just Societies

As people move to and around the U.S., they transform communities, perhaps nowhere as strikingly as in fast-growing North Carolina. As the long-established Native, Black, and white citizens of the state welcome Latino and Asian newcomers into this “new Southern immigrant gateway,” once-separated groups are building new futures together—and understanding themselves anew through the eyes of their neighbors.

5:30 PM Check-in and Art Viewing

6:00 PM Artist Talk

6:30 PM Panel Conversation

7:30 PM Reception

She’s Crafty AVL is beyond thrilled to announce the grand opening of AVL Hat Bar—Asheville’s first and
only dedicated hat bar—located in the heart of the vibrant and creative South Slope.

🎩 What Is a Hat Bar?
A hat bar is a fun, hands-on experience where you get to design a hat that’s uniquely you. From choosing
the perfect style and color to adding bands, charms, pins, feathers, burning, branding, and more—you’ll
create a wearable work of art that reflects your personality.

💫 What to Expect:
● A stunning collection of customizable and ready-to-wear hats plus handmade size inclusive gold
and sterling jewelry
● A warm, welcoming vibe that celebrates creativity and community
● Light refreshments, and all the good vibes
● First dibs on exclusive designs and grand opening specials

Bring your friends, your style, and your curiosity—and come be part of something truly special. AVL Hat
Bar is ready to become your go-to destination for all things hats, where every piece is a statement and
every visit is an experience.

Join us for an amazing day featuring locally grown trees, flowers, shrubs, herbs and veggies, as well as hand-crafted works of art, knife and tool sharpening – all provided by LOCAL vendors! Throughout the day we will feature educational presentations including “Conservation in 2025,” and “Container Planting: Tips and Tricks” which includes a quick and easy way to maintain your garden pruners. All of this combined with live music from Asheville Ukulele Society!
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Help support our WNC communities by supporting its small business owners. Our local growers are thoroughly vetted in sustainable growing practices and are experts in their field. Our local artists are dynamically creative and talented, showcasing kitchen and garden gifts, original paintings and pottery, homemade and organic botanicals, honeys and vinegar, mobile knife and tool sharpening, and more! Join these talented individuals as we welcome Spring back to WNC.

The French Broad River Garden Club Foundation, Inc. is excited to host its Spring Plant Sale & Marketplace on May 3, 2025 from 9AM – 3PM. Join us for an amazing day featuring locally grown trees, flowers, shrubs, herbs and veggies, as well as hand-crafted works of art. Throughout the day we will feature a variety of educational talks along with live music, a food truck, and of course all LOCAL vendors!
This event helps to support the WNC community by supporting its small business owners. Our vendors are thoroughly vetted in sustainable growing practices. Join us for a day of fun, education, and entertainment. Vendors will offer a huge variety of plants and artwork including:
– Rare specialty plants, boxwoods, and unusual perennials;
– Stately conifers, dwarf conifers, and trees;
– Premium fruit trees and flowering shrubs;
– Japanese Maples and other fine ornamental trees;
– Edibles, grasses & groundcovers;
– Early spring herbs & vegetable starts;
– Fresh-cut, locally-grown flowers;
– WNC natives & landscaping plants;
– Wildcrafted, certified organic skincare options;
– Planted containers, unique floral designs and plant materials;
– Honeys and vinegars;
– Hand-crafted wrought iron and functional garden art;
– Knife and tool sharpening.
This one of a kind event is not to be missed! Rain or shine so please dress accordingly.  Supporting local scholarships and community grants focusing on horticulture, conservation, and the environment.

Explore 22 beautiful greenhouses filled with mixed patio planters, hanging baskets, perennials, houseplants, shrubs, and plant starters. Enjoy live music, food from Smashville Food Truck and Mountain Man BBQ, a craft fair featuring jewelry and home goods, kids’ activities including a scavenger hunt and potting station, plus a mechanical bull! Appalachian Standard CBD products also available. With 600-900 attendees expected, carpooling is recommended. Free admission.