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.
Last year, our fairy gardens attracted almost 9,000 visitors between June and August 2023. We see this as an opportunity to highlight Bullington’s circle of contributors through the sponsorship of a fairy door. The handcrafted doors will have the sponsor’s name, will be opened by guests to reveal a hidden message, and will be given to the sponsors when they are taken down after the summer.
Here are just a few statistics about the 2023 Fairy trail and sponsors from last year:
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Visitors – Local visitors (from a 50-mile radius) numbered 2,647. Total visitors: over 8,700 from 18 countries, 41 different states, and D.C., 138 cities in N.C., 52 cities in S.C.
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Appeared on WLOS and over 15 print publications.
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Appeared in over a hundred social media posts (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.)
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Acknowledgement of sponsors were printed on 1350 of the Woodland Gazettes that were given out to children as they visited.
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Sponsors were highlighted in our Friends of Bullington newsletter.
The dates of the fairy garden will run from June 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024. Please consider being one of our ‘Sponsors with Heart’ by purchasing a fairy door. We need to hear from you no later than April 15, 2024, so we can customize your door and message in time for the grand opening of our Fairy Gardens kickoff.
Fairy Door Sponsor Information:
Thank you for supporting Bullington Gardens, and sharing our passion for providing WNC with magical public gardens aimed to connect to the natural world and provide science-based education.
Dates: June 1- August 31, 2024
Location: Bullington Gardens Fairy Trail, 95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Sponsor Benefits $350
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Business or name listed on a medium (approx.) 12” fairy house doors. (You can help our artist to design if ordered early enough)
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Recognition of sponsorship in Bullington Board newsletter.
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Acknowledgment on the Bullington Gardens social media pages.
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Sponsor logo and link on the Bullington Gardens website for 90 days
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Donation is tax-deductible.
Invoices and tax-deductible receipts will be sent from Bullington Gardens, Inc. Please send payment and the form below by April 15, 2024. For any questions, please contact Annie Higgins at [email protected] or call (828) 698-6104
On Sunday, June 2, 2024 from 1pm-4pm, The Adventure Center of Asheville will host its inaugural AVL Family Adventure Festival at 85 Expo Drive. Formerly Zipping For Autism, this family event will have live music, food, cold beer, scads of kids activities, bike, kayak and climbing demos, face painting, crafts, hay rides, games and MUCH MUCH MORE. Come and enjoy the festival or buy a combo pass and add a trip through Asheville Treetops Adventure Park on the sampler trail (9 challenge obstacles, 12’ in the trees, 1 continuous aerial trail). This event is being hosted by The Adventure Center of Asheville and produced by Asheville Plays! with 100% of proceeds benefiting Camp Lakey Gap. The proceeds directly impact the lives of autistic people and their families by providing scholarships for a one-of-a-kind, week-long residential summer camp experience for autistic children and adults.
Businesses with 25 or more full-time employees are invited to an informative session on enhancing your health plan. Speakers include Dr. Ben Aiken, founder of Lantern Health; Evan Bruder, Director of SONA Pharmacy Benefits; and Patrick Long, founder of Hero Health.
This Lunch & Learn opportunity is Tuesday, June 4 from 12-1:30pm at Explore Asheville/AIR Offices (27 College Place). Enjoy a complimentary lunch as you learn how eligible employers are offering $0 deductibles to their staff while saving money on their plan.
Unsure if your business is eligible, reach out to [email protected]
Ever wanted to make fun, entertaining, and informative videos for your business, but didn’t have the budget to hire a video production crew? Learn how to create professional business videos using just your cell phone! This course covers essential video production skills tailored for business, including camera techniques, lighting, sound, and editing on mobile devices. Explore different types of business videos and discover strategies for effective video marketing and distribution. By the end of the course, you’ll be equipped to create compelling videos that enhance your brand presence and engage with your target audience. Elevate your business with the power of mobile video production!
Our speaker for this event is Andre Daugherty. Andre is the owner and lead videographer for Pro 16 Productions, a digital media creation company based in Asheville. Since 2011 he has created and produced video for many businesses, both small and large, with the unified goal of telling their unique stories to their clients.
Andre is a graduate of East Carolina University with a B.S in Communications and two-time graduate of AB Tech for digital media and general studies. He is also a landscape photographer with years of experience exploring and capturing the beautiful mountains of WNC and the surrounding areas.
Registration is required so we may plan accordingly.
This event is offered as a benefit for Chamber membership. We also believe these are important topics for everyone, so we are opening this event to non-members for $15. We welcome you to come and check us out! Please contact Jessica Kanupp, our Member Development Specialist, at [email protected] if you’re considering a Chamber membership.
Everyone is invited to our monthly game night. I bring a group of games each month but feel free to bring your own as well. No specific games are set up for the night, we just bring a bunch of stuff from our collections and play some pick-up games. We have the tables and chairs. Bring your own food if you’d like (there is a microwave and fridge). There is also a Chinese place across the street, a convenience store for drinks and snacks, and we’re in walking distance to Hot Dog World. If you have any questions about the types of games we play and basic info about our group, Read our FAQ (https://www.meetup.com/HendoHometownGameGeeks/about/)
NOTE: This event is held at a church but it is not a church event, it is a community event. Everyone is welcome, everyone should feel comfortable attending, and while I’m always happy to privately answer questions about my faith or the church if asked, proselytizing is not the purpose of these gatherings. I hope the location does not make anyone feel uncomfortable and if you have any questions you can message me directly.
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!
Guests will meet at Dssolvr Asheville (63 N. Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801) and then depart with their treasure map on a walking team scavenger hunt where they will use their minds and feet to follow clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes to find and unlock the treasure chest for a grand prize!
The hunt involves walking a distance of up to 2.0 miles in total and will take place rain or shine, so long as the weather does not become dangerous. The hunt typically takes about 60 minutes to complete.
Children under 10 years old are welcome to participate for free with the purchase of an Adult ticket.
The Third Annual Asheville Ideas Fest is June 17-20, 2024.
When the inaugural Asheville Ideas Fest launched in June 2022, it was a watershed moment when 450 friends from around the country came together with world-class thinkers and doers to engage in meaningful discussions. The program evolved in 2023, and now 2024 promises to be an even more impactful gathering.
Asheville Ideas Fest is for curious citizens who want to engage with other deep thinkers on topics that matter. You may find your deeply held beliefs challenged on these important topics, and we invite you to lean into those moments, approaching them with an open mind and genuine curiosity.
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This year will include three core themes:
The Thriving American City: Revitalizing Communities through Connection and Growth
In an era of rapid urbanization and evolving societal needs, we will examine strategies that encourage human connection and promote sustainable growth, creating a blueprint for thriving cities. Join us for an engaging day of panel discussions and intensive workshops that evaluate the essential elements of revitalizing American cities and communities.
The Edges of the Unknown: Seeking Enlightenment through Exploration
Ideas Fest panelists and speakers will contemplate the mysteries of space, depths of the ocean, and what lies beyond our current scope of understanding. Using a lens of exploration and curiosity, we will navigate uncharted physical and spiritual territories as we seek to unlock secrets that lie at the edges of the unknown. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and challenged in this unique journey of discovery.
House of Cards or Hallowed Halls: Our Polarized Union and the Future of Democracy
Dive into the heart of contemporary political discourse with Ideas Fest. We will examine the polarized landscape of our union and explore the critical challenges facing democracy today. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the structural, cultural, and societal factors shaping the future of our democratic institutions.
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In addition to dynamic panel discussions with audience Q&A, afternoon workshops with panel speakers provide further opportunities to explore the themes and develop your ideas. Our program consists of a phenomenal lineup of speakers and a laser focus on generating civil discourse on topics that ignite conversations.
The Third Annual Asheville Ideas Fest is June 17-20, 2024.
When the inaugural Asheville Ideas Fest launched in June 2022, it was a watershed moment when 450 friends from around the country came together with world-class thinkers and doers to engage in meaningful discussions. The program evolved in 2023, and now 2024 promises to be an even more impactful gathering.
Asheville Ideas Fest is for curious citizens who want to engage with other deep thinkers on topics that matter. You may find your deeply held beliefs challenged on these important topics, and we invite you to lean into those moments, approaching them with an open mind and genuine curiosity.
—
This year will include three core themes:
The Thriving American City: Revitalizing Communities through Connection and Growth
In an era of rapid urbanization and evolving societal needs, we will examine strategies that encourage human connection and promote sustainable growth, creating a blueprint for thriving cities. Join us for an engaging day of panel discussions and intensive workshops that evaluate the essential elements of revitalizing American cities and communities.
The Edges of the Unknown: Seeking Enlightenment through Exploration
Ideas Fest panelists and speakers will contemplate the mysteries of space, depths of the ocean, and what lies beyond our current scope of understanding. Using a lens of exploration and curiosity, we will navigate uncharted physical and spiritual territories as we seek to unlock secrets that lie at the edges of the unknown. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and challenged in this unique journey of discovery.
House of Cards or Hallowed Halls: Our Polarized Union and the Future of Democracy
Dive into the heart of contemporary political discourse with Ideas Fest. We will examine the polarized landscape of our union and explore the critical challenges facing democracy today. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the structural, cultural, and societal factors shaping the future of our democratic institutions.
—
In addition to dynamic panel discussions with audience Q&A, afternoon workshops with panel speakers provide further opportunities to explore the themes and develop your ideas. Our program consists of a phenomenal lineup of speakers and a laser focus on generating civil discourse on topics that ignite conversations.
The Third Annual Asheville Ideas Fest is June 17-20, 2024.
When the inaugural Asheville Ideas Fest launched in June 2022, it was a watershed moment when 450 friends from around the country came together with world-class thinkers and doers to engage in meaningful discussions. The program evolved in 2023, and now 2024 promises to be an even more impactful gathering.
Asheville Ideas Fest is for curious citizens who want to engage with other deep thinkers on topics that matter. You may find your deeply held beliefs challenged on these important topics, and we invite you to lean into those moments, approaching them with an open mind and genuine curiosity.
—
This year will include three core themes:
The Thriving American City: Revitalizing Communities through Connection and Growth
In an era of rapid urbanization and evolving societal needs, we will examine strategies that encourage human connection and promote sustainable growth, creating a blueprint for thriving cities. Join us for an engaging day of panel discussions and intensive workshops that evaluate the essential elements of revitalizing American cities and communities.
The Edges of the Unknown: Seeking Enlightenment through Exploration
Ideas Fest panelists and speakers will contemplate the mysteries of space, depths of the ocean, and what lies beyond our current scope of understanding. Using a lens of exploration and curiosity, we will navigate uncharted physical and spiritual territories as we seek to unlock secrets that lie at the edges of the unknown. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and challenged in this unique journey of discovery.
House of Cards or Hallowed Halls: Our Polarized Union and the Future of Democracy
Dive into the heart of contemporary political discourse with Ideas Fest. We will examine the polarized landscape of our union and explore the critical challenges facing democracy today. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the structural, cultural, and societal factors shaping the future of our democratic institutions.
—
In addition to dynamic panel discussions with audience Q&A, afternoon workshops with panel speakers provide further opportunities to explore the themes and develop your ideas. Our program consists of a phenomenal lineup of speakers and a laser focus on generating civil discourse on topics that ignite conversations.
National Park Fee Free Days
Please check operating status at this park and others before traveling as holidays and local weather or safety conditions can affect hours of operation.
Come experience the national parks! On six days in 2024, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee–free dates in 2024:
The Third Annual Asheville Ideas Fest is June 17-20, 2024.
When the inaugural Asheville Ideas Fest launched in June 2022, it was a watershed moment when 450 friends from around the country came together with world-class thinkers and doers to engage in meaningful discussions. The program evolved in 2023, and now 2024 promises to be an even more impactful gathering.
Asheville Ideas Fest is for curious citizens who want to engage with other deep thinkers on topics that matter. You may find your deeply held beliefs challenged on these important topics, and we invite you to lean into those moments, approaching them with an open mind and genuine curiosity.
—
This year will include three core themes:
The Thriving American City: Revitalizing Communities through Connection and Growth
In an era of rapid urbanization and evolving societal needs, we will examine strategies that encourage human connection and promote sustainable growth, creating a blueprint for thriving cities. Join us for an engaging day of panel discussions and intensive workshops that evaluate the essential elements of revitalizing American cities and communities.
The Edges of the Unknown: Seeking Enlightenment through Exploration
Ideas Fest panelists and speakers will contemplate the mysteries of space, depths of the ocean, and what lies beyond our current scope of understanding. Using a lens of exploration and curiosity, we will navigate uncharted physical and spiritual territories as we seek to unlock secrets that lie at the edges of the unknown. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and challenged in this unique journey of discovery.
House of Cards or Hallowed Halls: Our Polarized Union and the Future of Democracy
Dive into the heart of contemporary political discourse with Ideas Fest. We will examine the polarized landscape of our union and explore the critical challenges facing democracy today. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the structural, cultural, and societal factors shaping the future of our democratic institutions.
—
In addition to dynamic panel discussions with audience Q&A, afternoon workshops with panel speakers provide further opportunities to explore the themes and develop your ideas. Our program consists of a phenomenal lineup of speakers and a laser focus on generating civil discourse on topics that ignite conversations.
The Great Wagon Road Game is an interactive role-playing version of the “Oregon Trail” game of Mom and Dad’s youth. The Cradle of Forestry has brought the game to life along our Biltmore Campus Trail (1 mile). This interactive walking game takes you around the trail to learn more about the trials and tribulations the first European settlers faced as they traveled the Great Wagon Road and settled our beautiful mountains. This is a great game for families to work together and have fun! Families will travel in “wagon groups”, “purchase” supplies (no real money involved in the game) for the journey and stop to roll the dice of destiny that will choose their cards of fate.
This is open to all ages and will have a family-friendly atmosphere. Children under 4 are free to come along as long as they don’t distract the other players from having fun. Please dress appropriately for the outdoors, as we will be walking our 1-mile paved, Biltmore Campus Trail.
TICKET INFORMATION
Register by emailing [email protected] with your name, number of people in your group, number of children in the group and their age.
SCHEDULE
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
WHAT TO BRING
Water bottle
Closed toed shoes
Independence Day Fireworks
This Fourth of July, the Asheville Downtown Association and the City of Asheville are excited to invite you to the Independence Day Block Party, presented by Ingles. We are thrilled to announce that this year’s free event is moving to the vibrant South Slope area, specifically on Coxe Avenue and Buxton Avenue in Downtown Asheville.
The festivities kick off at noon with a thrilling performance by the Ultimate Airdogs, alongside a variety of local food and beverage vendors where delicious treats will be available for purchase throughout the day. Additionally, a number of local marketplace vendors will be present, offering unique goods and crafts that showcase the best of Asheville’s vibrant community.
The entire South Slope neighborhood is participating, ensuring an exciting day filled with kids’ activities, live music, and engaging activations for all ages. The Rock Academy will provide musical entertainment during the early part of the day, setting the perfect mood for a celebration of independence and community spirit.
At 4:00 PM, the main stage opens with Asheville’s very own Secret Agent 23 Skidoo as the emcee, followed by performances from DJ Badonkey Kong and The Legendary Tuesday Night Funk Jam House Band. The night will feature a headline performance by The Pink Stones.
Don’t miss the grand finale – a dazzling fireworks display set to light up the night sky at 9:30 PM. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate our nation’s independence in the heart of Asheville.
Bring your friends and family, and enjoy a day filled with music, fun, and community spirit. We look forward to celebrating with you!
For more information, please visit www.ashevilledowntown.org or contact [email protected].
Join us for our annual 4th of July Celebration! A Low Country Boil with The Silo Cookhouse & Root & Bone + Live Music + FIREWORKS!
XP League Camps are designed to engage kids at many different levels. Not only do kids get to meet new friends and improve their skills in the games they love to play, but they will learn about teamwork, communications, sportsmanship, esports health, nutrition, esports psychology, stretching and exercise, mindset and motivation, boosting focus, and so much more.
AI in Production is a two-day, single-track conference designed for product teams and software developers tasked with building AI products, offering guidance on best practices and starting points.
This community event brings together professionals to exchange ideas, learn about the latest AI practices and tools, and discuss their applications and limitations with industry leaders and peers in AI and software development.
Join us to learn, network, gain inspiration, and shape the future of AI in business and applications.
The Great Wagon Road Game is an interactive role-playing version of the “Oregon Trail” game of Mom and Dad’s youth. The Cradle of Forestry has brought the game to life along our Biltmore Campus Trail (1 mile). This interactive walking game takes you around the trail to learn more about the trials and tribulations the first European settlers faced as they traveled the Great Wagon Road and settled our beautiful mountains. This is a great game for families to work together and have fun! Families will travel in “wagon groups”, “purchase” supplies (no real money involved in the game) for the journey and stop to roll the dice of destiny that will choose their cards of fate.
This is open to all ages and will have a family-friendly atmosphere. Children under 4 are free to come along as long as they don’t distract the other players from having fun. Please dress appropriately for the outdoors, as we will be walking our 1-mile paved, Biltmore Campus Trail.
TICKET INFORMATION
Register by emailing [email protected] with your name, number of people in your group, number of children in the group and their age.
SCHEDULE
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
WHAT TO BRING
Water bottle
Closed toed shoes
Immerse yourself in the warm colors and textures of autumn as you gather inspiration from nature’s bounty. Under the expert guidance of Mary Quirk, you’ll learn essential floral design techniques and tips for incorporating seasonal elements into your centerpiece creations.
From vibrant chrysanthemums and seed heads, to rustic branches, you’ll have access to a diverse selection of garden-fresh blooms and foliage, allowing you to design a centerpiece that perfectly reflects your personal style and the festive atmosphere of Thanksgiving.
Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!
Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!
Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!
Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!
Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!
Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!
Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!
Tis the season to be jolly! The tradition continues with the same great holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. All new renditions of your holiday favorites will help you get those sleigh bells jinglin,’ and chestnuts roasting! There is truly no better way to kick off your holiday season. So, hurry on over with your family, friends, and loved ones to share in the joy and excitement of this seasonal spectacular that will have you feeling merry and bright! Ring-a-ling-a-ding-dong-ding, y’all!
Frank Capra’s beloved American holiday classic film is reimagined as a live 1940s radio broadcast. Set in Studio A at WBFR in Manhattan on Christmas Eve 1946, this hilarious re-enactment, with the help of a live Foley and a talented small ensemble, brings the entire town of Bedford Falls to life on stage. Small-town everyman George Bailey is having a Christmas Eve that can only be saved by a miracle. Enter George’s guardian angel, Clarence, who takes him on a heartwarming journey of redemption proving that “no one is a failure who has friends.”