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.

Thursday, June 13, 2024
2024 Fairy Door Sponsor
Jun 13 – Aug 31 all-day
Bullington Gardens

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:

  • 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.

  • Appeared on WLOS and over 15 print publications.

  • Appeared in over a hundred social media posts (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.)

  • Acknowledgement of sponsors were printed on 1350 of the Woodland Gazettes that were given out to children as they visited.

  • 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

  • Business or name listed on a medium (approx.) 12” fairy house doors. (You can help our artist to design if ordered early enough)

  • Recognition of sponsorship in Bullington Board newsletter.

  • Acknowledgment on the Bullington Gardens social media pages.

  • Sponsor logo and link on the Bullington Gardens website for 90 days

  • 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

Sponsor a door here.

WNC Minority-Owned Businesses + Nonprofits: Community Voting Is Open for Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway
Jun 13 all-day
online

Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife RefugeKatherine Alexander Fine JewelrySilver Moon Custom Art & PhotographyStecoah Valley Cultural Arts CenterWestern Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.

 

Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation. 

The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s websiteInstagramFacebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.

Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit organizations grow into memorable, profitable, and sustainable brands. Our full suite of brand and marketing services uses a proven and effective process that makes supporting you easy and impactful.

PROpel AVL Curated Connections
Jun 13 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

Join us for an evening of curated connections and fun at our networking event for young professionals with Cayla Clark! Get ready to mix, mingle, and make meaningful connections in a dynamic atmosphere.

Our event features a unique twist on networking with Mingo Bingo, designed to spark conversations and foster new connections in a lighthearted and enjoyable way. This event is perfect for anyone looking to expand their professional circle.

Indulge in delicious food by Bears Smokehouse and Asheville Pro Kitchen and refreshing drinks while you engage with fellow attendees, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations. With an eclectic mix of professionals from various industries, you never know who you might meet!

Come join us for an evening of laughter, camaraderie, and networking bingo! Grab your bingo card and let the networking games begin!

Cayla Clark is a playwright and director who obtained a BA in playwriting from UCLA. Her original works have been featured at the Asheville Fringe Festival for three consecutive years, and she recently contributed as an assistant director for the Montford Moppets youth theater program. Locally, she produces “Bad Date Mic” and co-produces “Blind Date Live,” a popular live dating/comedy show. Cayla is a co-founder of Joking Mechanism, a comedy-based workshop designed to support individuals recovering from substance use disorders. She works full time as a Content Manager for Guardian Recovery, a nationwide network of addiction and mental health treatment centers. Cayla hopes to positively impact the lives of many, whether through comedy or by helping them find love.

About PROpel AVL: Designed for young professionals between the ages of 21 and 40 in the Asheville/Buncombe area, PROpel AVL provides outstanding professional leadership development opportunities through educational seminars, service opportunities and networking.At PROpel AVL, we go beyond the ordinary. Imagine having exclusive access to top-notch workshops, rockstar mentors, local employers seeking talent, and a community of fearless young professionals like yourself. We don’t just offer resources; we serve up opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re fresh out of school or making your mark, PROpel AVL has your back.

You can sign up for text alerts by texting #propel to 828-827-5332. Learn more about upcoming programs at www.ashevillechamber.org/propel

Friday, June 14, 2024
WNC Minority-Owned Businesses + Nonprofits: Community Voting Is Open for Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway
Jun 14 all-day
online

Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife RefugeKatherine Alexander Fine JewelrySilver Moon Custom Art & PhotographyStecoah Valley Cultural Arts CenterWestern Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.

 

Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation. 

The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s websiteInstagramFacebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.

Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit organizations grow into memorable, profitable, and sustainable brands. Our full suite of brand and marketing services uses a proven and effective process that makes supporting you easy and impactful.

AM Power Hour
Jun 14 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 am
Optimum

Rise and shine and make your morning the catalyst to AMP UP your business!

Jumpstart your morning with a burst of productivity as you mingle with prospective customers. This monthly event is your gateway to discovering strong referral sources, finding new vendors, meeting the perfect client, or establishing connections that can open doors for future interactions!

Whether you’re an early bird, or can’t make it to our after-hours, AM Power Hour is your go-to for a dynamic and energizing start to the day!

June will be hosted by Optimum!

Monday, June 17, 2024
Asheville Ideas Fest 2024
Jun 17 all-day
UNC Asheville

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.

Tuesday, June 18, 2024
Asheville Ideas Fest 2024
Jun 18 all-day
UNC Asheville

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.

Pitch Party
Jun 18 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Southern Appalachian Brewery
The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, Hatch Innovation Hub, Van Winkle Law Firm, BRCC Small Business Center, Southern Appalachian Brewery and Big Frog Custom T-Shirts have partnered to present this small business opportunity.
Pitch Parties are designed to offer entrepreneurs an opportunity to pitch ideas for a new business, expansions, and reorganization. Each participant will be allowed up to one minute to make a quick pitch, after which the participant will receive feedback from the audience.
Wednesday, June 19, 2024
Asheville Ideas Fest 2024
Jun 19 all-day
UNC Asheville

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.

Thursday, June 20, 2024
Asheville Ideas Fest 2024
Jun 20 all-day
UNC Asheville

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.

PROpel AVL Grow Series
Jun 20 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

In our June installment of the PROpel AVL GROW series for young professionals, Erin Vandermore presents “Closing the Gap: Mastering Intergenerational Communication in the Workplace”

In today’s multigenerational workforce, effective communication is crucial to success. With each generation bringing its unique set of values, beliefs, and technological preferences, it can be challenging to navigate communication styles in the workplace. In this presentation, we will explore the different generations currently in the workforce and their communication styles. We will also discuss tips on how to effectively communicate with each generation and bridge the generational gap.

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the different generations currently in the workforce and their communication preferences
  • Identify potential challenges in communicating across generations
  • Learn strategies for bridging the generational gap and promoting effective communication in the workplace

 

About the presenter: 

Erin Vandermore, MA, LCPC, LCMHC, is a transformative thought leader, licensed therapist, and pioneering wellness coach with over 14 years of experience in the fields of mental health and life coaching. As the founder of Age of Uncertainty Coaching, Erin has dedicated her life to helping individuals discover their unique skills and talents—those often overshadowed by self-sabotage. Her empathetic lens, cultivated through her personal journey as a mom, a survivor of pre-eclampsia, and an individual living with Dyslexia, ADHD, and Anxiety, allows her to connect with clients on a deeply human level.

12:00-1:00pm – GROW Session

Sandwiches, salad and chips will be catered by Del Vecchios!

Please register for this event in order to help us plan accordingly.

About PROpel AVL:
Designed for young professionals between the ages of 21 and 40 in the Asheville/Buncombe area, PROpel AVL provides outstanding professional leadership development opportunities through educational seminars, service opportunities and networking.

Stay connected with text alerts! Text #propelavl to 828-827-5332 for updates and reminders about PROpel AVL programs.

Tuesday, June 25, 2024
GROW Mills River Mixer
Jun 25 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Appalachian Mountain Brewery

Join us to stay updated on business in Mills River. With updates from the Town of Mills River and networking with neighboring businesses, let’s work to GROW your business in Mills River.

Thursday, June 27, 2024
Business After Hours
Jun 27 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Church Street Funeral and Cremation
Experience the Chamber’s Business After Hours – an event designed for real connections and genuine conversations. Mix and mingle with fellow professionals and broaden you network, meet potential clients and create a new referral source!
Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with fantastic food and beverages, courtesy of our monthly host sponsor, with the chance to win fabulous door prizes – a perfect blend of business and enjoyment!

Plus don’t miss the chance to try your luck in our 50/50 raffle!
No cost to attend, just pre-register.

Tuesday, July 16, 2024
PROpel AVL Grow Series: Acquistion Entrepreneurship
Jul 16 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

The July session of the PROpel AVL GROW series for young professionals, we’ll explore “Acquistion Entrepreneurship.”

In the ever-evolving business landscape, “Acquisition Entrepreneurship” has emerged as a powerful pathway for young professionals eager to carve out their niche in the corporate world.

This presentation, designed specifically for forward-thinking and ambitious young professionals, will delve into the complexities and opportunities of acquiring and growing existing businesses as a form of entrepreneurship. Unlike traditional entrepreneurship that starts from scratch, acquisition entrepreneurship offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards involving the identification, evaluation, and successful takeover of existing enterprises.

The program will cover essential aspects of acquisition entrepreneurship, including the art of identifying potential acquisition targets, conducting due diligence, understanding valuation techniques, and negotiating deals. Participants will gain insights into the critical skills needed to navigate these processes successfully, such as financial analysis, market assessment, and leadership abilities to integrate and grow the acquired business. Additionally, the presentation will highlight the common pitfalls and how to avoid them, ensuring a smoother transition into ownership and management roles.

Key takeaways from this session will include specific, actionable strategies that young professionals can apply immediately in their pursuit of business acquisition. These include:

Frameworks for Identifying Suitable Acquisition Targets: Learn how to spot businesses with growth potential and understand what makes an acquisition target viable.

Due Diligence Checklists and Techniques: Gain knowledge on conducting thorough due diligence, a critical step in assessing a business’s true value and potential risks.

Negotiation Strategies for Acquisition: Discover key negotiation tactics for acquisition deals to ensure a beneficial agreement for all parties involved.

Post-Acquisition Integration Plans: Understand the steps necessary to successfully integrate an acquired company, from employee management to merging systems and cultures.

Financial Analysis and Funding Options: Explore financial analysis basics for acquisition and learn about various funding options, including loans, investors, and other financial instruments.

 

About the presenter:

Benjamin Wann, CMA, CSCA, MBA, PMP, owns Asheville accounting firm CFO Consultants, LLC, with a team of 13 and 2 offices in NC.

Originally from the Philadelphia region and coming from a 10-year career providing insights to executives of mid-sized manufacturing firms, Ben transitioned to entrepreneurship full-time in Nov 2022. Ben’s thesis was that the small business community would value the same expertise, technology and know-how that the large organizations have to help accelerate their own businesses.

 

12:00-1:00pm – GROW Session

Sandwiches, salad and chips will be catered by Del Vecchios!

Please register for this event in order to help us plan accordingly.

About PROpel AVL:
Designed for young professionals between the ages of 21 and 40 in the Asheville/Buncombe area, PROpel AVL provides outstanding professional leadership development opportunities through educational seminars, service opportunities and networking.

Stay connected with text alerts! Text #propelavl to 828-827-5332 for updates and reminders about PROpel AVL programs.

Thursday, July 18, 2024
AI In Production Conference
Jul 18 – Jul 19 all-day
The Collider

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.