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.
Looking to be challenged physically and spiritually?… join us for the 2024 Carry Your Cross 5K, 1K Kid’s Run, and Little Kid’s (Ages 2-5) Fun Run – Saturday, March 30, 2024. – 5K participants carry a 4ft length of 2×4 lumber across your back for the final 2/10 of a mile – uphill! Come join us for a run that you won’t soon forget. * 5K AWARDS & AGE GROUPS Special Commemorative Awards to: * Top 3 Male/Female Overall * Top 3 Male/Female Masters [40+] * Top 3 Male/Female in the following Age Groups: * 12+ under, 13-15, 16-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 + KIDS 1K AWARDS to the Top 3 Male/Female Overall Schedule Saturday – March 30th * 7:00 – 8:45 Packet Pick Up and Onsite Registration in the Family Life Center (gym). * 9:00 5K START * 9:45 +/- Little Kids Fun Run START * 10:00 +/- Kids 1K START * 10:30 5K Awards Ceremony
We must protect and restore abortion access.
Since the reversal of Roe v Wade, the future of abortion access has been handed to state legislatures. This catastrophic SCOTUS decision is to the detriment of many states across the South.
In fact, now 1 in 3 women live in states without access, and the top ten states with the highest rates of maternal mortality have all passed abortion bans. The 2024 election is critical to abortion access in NC.
The Reproductive Freedom Art Show is an artistic act of defiance. All proceeds raised from the art show will support Planned Parenthood Action PAC NC. The Action PAC supports pro-reproductive health candidates by direct voter contact work, reaching low propensity voters and mobilizing the electorate to vote for pro-choice candidates.
Help protect and restore access to safe, legal abortion and reproductive rights by participating in this show by donating artwork, your time, shopping, or just spreading the word.
Join AVL Clothing Swap for our biggest event yet! Now located at the Regeneration Station, the swap works the same as always: purchase your ticket (now a tax-deductible donation!) drop off clothing (clean and in good condition) at Regeneration Station before the event date. On the day of the event, show up to shop the swap!
Veggie Stars, Herbs, Flowers
ELIDA helping children succeed
Uniting Communities: Inaugural She Slays 5K and One-Mile Fun Run Empowers Women
In a celebration of solidarity and empowerment, the inaugural She Slays 5K and One Mile Fun Run is set to kick off on April 20th, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to support the Women Helping Women program at UNC Health Pardee.
This exciting event aims to foster a sense of community while raising crucial funds for a program dedicated to uplifting and supporting women in need.
Participants of all ages and fitness levels are invited to lace up their running shoes and join in the festivities. Whether racing to beat personal records or strolling leisurely, everyone’s participation contributes to the greater cause of empowering women in our community.
Registration for this event is now open – Register for She Slays Now.
Looking for a new second-hand treasure? Love a good deal? Want to support a local non-profit? Come check out the Blue Ridge Roller Derby Yard Sale! Shop for a variety of items from clothes to furniture and more, or just come say hi to your favorite skaters. All proceeds from the sale benefit Blue Ridge Roller Derby.
Sale is in convenient West Asheville at 133 Dorchester Ave. from 8am to noon. See you there!
Veggie Stars, Herbs, Flowers
ELIDA helping children succeed
Get revved up for best weekend of the year! Join us for the Tail Chaser 250, where you will experience an epic “ride at your own pace” dual sport adventure ride on the best scenic paved, gravel, and back roads in the Southeast. This in-person event is an absolute must for anyone who loves being on the motorcycle, hanging out with good people, and enjoying the beauty of the open road.
We’ll be returning to Deerwoode Reserve, situated along the French Broad River, just outside Brevard, NC, where we’ll gather for meals together in their new event pavilion, enjoy the property’s beauty, and stay both Friday and Saturday nights. We’ll be able to spread out in wide open fields for camping and cabins available for rent, and enjoy the view beyond.
Join Eurosport Asheville and the entire adventure motorcycle community to help raise essential funds for Muddy Sneakers and the Veterans Healing Farm. It’s an honor to donate 100% of the proceeds of Tail Chaser 250 to these organizations doing important work in our communities. We really appreciate your support!
So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to immerse yourself in a weekend of adventure and being a part of the motorcycle community. The Tail Chaser 250 is waiting for you – suit up and prepare for the best weekend of the year!
Join us every Tuesday in April for Taco Tuesdays at Highland Brewing! Indulge in delicious tacos from Dirty Gertie’s while enjoying our $5 Cerveza special in the Taproom. Bring your friends and family for a flavorful evening with tasty food and great drinks. Don’t miss out on this weekly fiesta! See you there!
A portion of Cerveza sales will be donated to SAHC all month long. To see all the amazing things they are a part of click here!
Participating Asheville Restaurants |
The Western North Carolina AIDS Project (WNCAP) will host its annual Dining Out For Life event on Thursday, April 25. Now in its 22nd year, Dining Out For Life 2024 encourages residents of Asheville and Western North Carolina to dine out at participating restaurants. This celebration supports both the local restaurants that host the events while raising money for WNCAP’s life-saving services. The money raised by Dining Out for Life helps provide care, rental assistance, and education in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
2024 Participating Restaurants (List Updated Daily)
* Member of Asheville Independent Restaurant Association
*Farm Burger Downtown
*Farm Burger South AVL
*Gan Shan West
*Jettie Rae’s Oyster House
*Laughing Seed
*Posana
*Salt Face Mule
The Noodle shop
*Twisted Laurel Downtown AVL
*Vinnie’s Italian
*Vinnie’s South
Vivian Asheville
The goal of this event is to build bridges and celebrate the common ground we all share in our beautiful county and community.
Live music and poetry performances.
Appearances by state party chair Anderson Clayton and several North Carolina candidates.
Fun for the whole family!
$20 admission.
$10 for students.
Kids 16 and under free.
All funds raised will help get voters to the polls in November 2024!
Join us every Tuesday in April for Taco Tuesdays at Highland Brewing! Indulge in delicious tacos from Dirty Gertie’s while enjoying our $5 Cerveza special in the Taproom. Bring your friends and family for a flavorful evening with tasty food and great drinks. Don’t miss out on this weekly fiesta! See you there!
A portion of Cerveza sales will be donated to SAHC all month long. To see all the amazing things they are a part of click here!
Join Bountiful Cities at Momentum Gallery to celebrate!
On Thursday, May 2, from 5-9 p.m., Mosaic Realty comes together with 14 downtown Asheville galleries for the second annual Mosaic Art Walk & Benefit. New this year: Mosaic and United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County have teamed up to raffle a Volkswagen ID.4 to benefit 15 local nonprofits!
Purchase tickets for the Car Raffle Here!
This free community fundraiser, open to the public, will be hosted by Mosaic Realty, with each gallery highlighting a different local nonprofit. Take in the eclectic pieces from local, regional and international artists while learning about the fantastic work being done by each nonprofit. There will be light fare and beverages as well as the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to win exciting prizes at each gallery, with all raffle basket proceeds going to the highlighted organization. Additionally, each gallery will contribute a percentage of the evening’s sales to its featured nonprofit. All galleries will be open for viewing from 5-8 p.m., with the Asheville Art Museum open until 9 p.m., where the car raffle winner (more below) will be announced!
Citron Gallery presents an art exhibition that harmoniously weaves together the distinctive styles of two artists, each navigating the delicate balance between spontaneity and control in their unique mediums. In this captivating showcase, the ethereal paintings of fabric and mixed media artist, Lauren Betty, and the textured wonders of oil, cold wax, and mixed media by Rand Kramer converge to create an immersive experience.
Lauren transforms delicate fabrics into ethereal paintings that seem to defy gravity. Using spontaneous gestures, she allows the fabric to take on a life of its own, capturing the fluidity of emotions in each piece. The work emerges as she delicately arranges and manipulates the fabric, creating an otherworldly tapestry that invites viewers to explore the boundaries between reality and the sublime.
Rand’s controlled technique involves layering and scraping, building up a rich textures that exude both depth and mystery. This deliberate process reflects an artful balance between spontaneity and control, inviting viewers to witness the evolution of his creations.
This will also be Mosaic Realty’s 2nd annual Art Walk & Benefit night! We are one of the 14 participating galleries on the Art Walk. This free community fundraiser, open to the public, will be hosted by Mosaic Realty, and each gallery highlights a different local nonprofit. Our gallery will be supporting the work of Blue Ridge Orchestra. There will be the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to win exciting prizes, with all raffle basket proceeds going to the highlighted organization.
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FEAST classes focus on:
- Problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
- Increasing fresh, locally grown produce in everyday living.
- Gaining confidence by exploring different ways to grow and prepare fresh produce.
- Creating and changing recipes and substituting ingredients.
- Learning how food and the environment affects the brain and body.
- Connecting to Core Curriculum and Essential Standards in math, reading, writing, science, health, and nutrition.
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FEAST classes focus on:
- Problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
- Increasing fresh, locally grown produce in everyday living.
- Gaining confidence by exploring different ways to grow and prepare fresh produce.
- Creating and changing recipes and substituting ingredients.
- Learning how food and the environment affects the brain and body.
- Connecting to Core Curriculum and Essential Standards in math, reading, writing, science, health, and nutrition.
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FEAST classes focus on:
- Problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
- Increasing fresh, locally grown produce in everyday living.
- Gaining confidence by exploring different ways to grow and prepare fresh produce.
- Creating and changing recipes and substituting ingredients.
- Learning how food and the environment affects the brain and body.
- Connecting to Core Curriculum and Essential Standards in math, reading, writing, science, health, and nutrition.
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FEAST classes focus on:
- Problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
- Increasing fresh, locally grown produce in everyday living.
- Gaining confidence by exploring different ways to grow and prepare fresh produce.
- Creating and changing recipes and substituting ingredients.
- Learning how food and the environment affects the brain and body.
- Connecting to Core Curriculum and Essential Standards in math, reading, writing, science, health, and nutrition.
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FEAST classes focus on:
- Problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
- Increasing fresh, locally grown produce in everyday living.
- Gaining confidence by exploring different ways to grow and prepare fresh produce.
- Creating and changing recipes and substituting ingredients.
- Learning how food and the environment affects the brain and body.
- Connecting to Core Curriculum and Essential Standards in math, reading, writing, science, health, and nutrition.
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FEAST classes focus on:
- Problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
- Increasing fresh, locally grown produce in everyday living.
- Gaining confidence by exploring different ways to grow and prepare fresh produce.
- Creating and changing recipes and substituting ingredients.
- Learning how food and the environment affects the brain and body.
- Connecting to Core Curriculum and Essential Standards in math, reading, writing, science, health, and nutrition.
Make a difference in the lives of local children! Join Pisgah Legal Services at Rabbit Rabbit in downtown Asheville for an evening of live music, featuring Jane Kramer and the band Rooster. Take part in family-friendly fun, a silent auction and more at this outdoor event for all ages. By participating, you contribute to our Children’s Law Program which provides crucial support to kids in our communities.
Pisgah Legal Services is a nonprofit providing free civil legal aid, anti-poverty advocacy, and access to health care to people with low incomes in Western North Carolina. Kids Deserve Justice supports our Children’s Law Program, which helps disadvantaged children avoid unsafe housing conditions and homelessness, access essential services such as medical care, and escape abuse. Legal intervention can stop an immediate crisis and improve local children’s long-term futures.
In 2023, we served over 23,000 people—more than 7,000 of them children—across the WNC mountain region.
Tickets are $25/person in advance, $30 at the door. Kids age 12 and under get in FREE. Tickets include event admission and 1 complimentary drink ticket.
Local ceramic artists will once again fire up their kilns for the seventh
year to help hungry children in the greater Flat Rock area.
Advance tickets are recommended for the two seatings: 12:00pm-2:00pm and 4:00pm-
6:00pm. Each ticket includes one hand-crafted bowl donated by area potters, a soup-based
meal, with soups and breads donated by local restaurants and bakers, plus homemade cookies
baked by church members. For those wishing to eat at home, take-away is an available
option.
Tickets are $30 per person or $50 for a family of two adults and children under 12. Tickets
are available for purchase online at www.stjohnflatrock.org/empty-bowls.
Please join us for this fun community event. Donations are gratefully accepted throughout the
year. The Flat Rock Backpack Program has 501c-3 status. 100% of the money collected goes
to feeding at least 150 children in eight schools every weekend.
“The Backpack Team is so very appreciative of the support from the potters, the food
providers, and the community, who make this such a successful event,” said Debby Staton,
Flat Rock Backpack Program Coordinator.
The Parish Hall is located across the street from the church at 1905 Greenville Highway. For
more information write to [email protected] or visit www.stjohnflatrock.org.
7th Annual Empty Bowls
Supporting the Flat Rock Backpack Program
Sunday, May 19, 2024
Two Seating Windows: 12:00-2:00pm | 4:00-6:00pm
Local ceramic artists will once again fire up their kilns for the 7th year to help hungry children in the greater Flat Rock area. On Sunday, May 19, Empty Bowls, a community meal benefiting the Flat Rock Backpack Program, will take place inside the Parish Hall at the Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness.
Advanced tickets are strongly recommended for the two seatings: 12:00pm-2:00pm and 4:00pm-6:00pm. Attendees of the event may come any time
during their seating window. Each ticket includes one hand-crafted bowl (all donated by area potters) and a soup-based meal (a variety of soups, breads, and homemade cookies). For those wishing to eat at home, take-away is an available option.
Tickets are $30 per person or $50 for a family of two adults and children under 12. Limited tickets may be available at the door on the day of the event.
The Parish Hall is located across the street from the church building, at 1905 Greenville Highway. For more information, write to [email protected].
Make a difference in the lives of local children! Join Pisgah Legal Services at Rabbit Rabbit in downtown Asheville for an evening of live music, featuring Jane Kramer and the band Rooster. Take part in family-friendly fun, a silent auction and more at this outdoor event for all ages. By participating, you contribute to our Children’s Law Program which provides crucial support to kids in our communities.
Pisgah Legal Services is a nonprofit providing free civil legal aid, anti-poverty advocacy, and access to health care to people with low incomes in Western North Carolina. Kids Deserve Justice supports our Children’s Law Program, which helps disadvantaged children avoid unsafe housing conditions and homelessness, access essential services such as medical care, and escape abuse. Legal intervention can stop an immediate crisis and improve local children’s long-term futures.
In 2023, we served over 23,000 people—more than 7,000 of them children—across the WNC mountain region.
Tickets are $25/person in advance, $30 at the door. Kids age 12 and under get in FREE. Tickets include event admission and 1 complimentary drink ticket.
Voodoo Brewing Co. – Asheville
Asheville Music School Presents: Sound Effects Benefit Concert with music by Dirty Logic and Minør! This is an all-ages event, and kids 7 and under get in FREE!
Now in its tenth year, Sound Effects is Asheville Music School’s primary fundraising event. This year, we are bringing the country’s premier Steely Dan Tribute Band, Dirty Logic to the outdoor stage at Salvage Station. AMS band Minør opens the show.
Our goal is to raise $35,000 to support AMS operations and the Paul Thorpe Music Education Fund, which funds the scholarship and outreach programs.
Asheville Music School (AMS) is strengthening communities through music education and outreach, while sustaining teachers and musicians in a vibrant music culture. Its 35+ music educators conduct private lessons in a wide variety of music styles and instruments for students of all ages and abilities. AMS also offers ensemble classes, summer camps, group classes, master classes and workshops in a supportive family-friendly environment.
Since its inception as a nonprofit, AMS has awarded more than $100,000 in need-based scholarships to those unable to afford private music lessons. All proceeds from this event will be used to help AMS continue and expand its free performances and group music classes for underserved communities, veterans, seniors, the homeless, people in recovery and those living with disabilities through its Sound Education outreach program.
ABOUT DIRTY LOGIC:
Composed of an all-star line-up of some of Asheville, NC’s best musicians, Dirty Logic works hard to create a show that both honors the exceptional music of Steely Dan and showcases the incredible skill and unique musical voice of each of the band’s members. This 11-piece powerhouse delivers the experience that true Steely Dan fans recognize as authentic passion for the music, skillfully and joyfully recreated. The collective shares the idea that: “playing this music the way that it should be played” means bringing together musicians who are masterful in their craft and who also share a deep love and sense of reverence for the music and musicians of Steely Dan.
While fans can expect to hear accurate renditions of the studio recordings and solos they know and love, the band also incorporates some funkier, re-harmonized arrangements found in Steely Dan’s live performances. Their knack for authentically recreating the band’s catalog and a healthy dose of high-energy improvisation ensures that each show is a refreshing musical experience. Their songbook includes tracks from Aja, Gaucho, The Royal Scam, Pretzel Logic, Can’t Buy A Thrill, Countdown to Ecstasy, Katy Lied, and the FM soundtrack.
Join us for this Memorial Day 5K Run for Life event to remember those who gave their all for our country and to help support Open Arms Pregnancy Center. This will be a run/walk-timed event to be held at Bill Moore Community Park in Fletcher (AKA: “Fletcher Park”) located at 85 Howard Gap Road, Fletcher, NC US 28732 on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27th with a start time of 8:00 AM. A Fun Run will start at 9:00 AM.
Runners should register by April 20th to secure a T-shirt for the race.
Sign up at https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Fletcher/Run4for5k
Those interested in sponsoring the event should contact Open Arms Pregnancy Center to learn more. (Marlies Zerressen at [email protected] or call 828.676.4510)
Open Arms provides a safe place for women facing unplanned pregnancies, those
needing material goods for their baby, or those who need emotional support. We serve
each mom throughout her pregnancy and continue supporting her and the baby to 18 months of age. All services are free and confidential.
This month’s Cultivated Community Dinner Series, in partnership with Olivette Farm, features Chef Eric Morris & benefits Feed AVL.
Please communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies at least 72 hours in advance. We cannot guarantee accommodations without notice. For more information on Feed AVL, you can visit feedashevillewest.com and to learn about Olivette Farm, you might explore their connection with the community via olivettefarm.com.
About
Spring unfolds its bounty at Olivette Farm, and Cultura’s table is set amidst the bloom. This April, join us under the stars and amongst the fields where our food roots. Cultura’s own Executive Chef Eric Morris will illuminate the night with a menu drawn from the earth and crafted with care. In partnership with Feed AVL, we celebrate the power of community and local sustenance. Feed AVL’s mission resonates with our own — nourishing the bonds between land, produce, and people. With every dish, we pay homage to their efforts to provide free, fresh, locally sourced food, particularly to the BIPOC community in Asheville. Reserve your seat at a table where dining transcends the meal before you. It’s a place where food is a bridge to understanding, care, and support for those who nurture us all. Olivette Farm, nestled by the French Broad River, offers more than just a setting; it’s an experience where each leaf and root tells a story of sustainability and conscious cultivation.
Are YOU READY for NERD PRIDE FEST 2024!!
Saturday, June 1st 2024 : 10am – 4pm
Asheville’s local artist convention every first Saturday in June in honor of Pride month! This is a fun, free way to celebrate pride month by supporting local artists and nonprofits who do incredible things for the queer LGBT+ community in western North Carolina.
Nerd Pride Fest was our first ever event in our current location. So it had to be to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and reopening with food, games, live music, and more.
As a shop owned and operated by queer-identifying folks, The Nerd Dungeon is committed to being a safe and welcoming environment for people of all ages to express themselves any time of year, not just during Pride Month. We will always be a 3rd Place.
It is nice to have an excuse to go all-out and party, though! Pride Cosplay encouraged!
What’s Brewing at Just Brew It:
Just Brew It isn’t just any beer festival; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and great taste. Picture this: 50+ unique beers crafted by 20+ talented homebrewers. From classic IPAs to experimental brews infused with coffee, chocolate, spices, and fruit – there’s something for every beer lover’s palate. Those in attendance sample the homebrew and vote for their favorite while the homebrewers compete for the coveted People’s Choice Award!
But that’s not all! We’re adding a twist this year with a selection of non-alcoholic drinks for those looking for a different kind of refreshment.
How to Join the Fun:
To savor these sensational sips, become a 2024 individual member of Just Economics today. This event is not ticketed, but rather a benefit for Just Economics’ members. Purchase a membership here and your name will be on the event attendee list. Then, all Just Economics members can sample the homebrews and vote for their favorites!
- Memberships are $35, which grants you entry to the event.
- The VIP Package with Membership is $55, which grants you entry to the event an hour early (1:00pm) and a VIP swag bag with a souvenir glass and other goodies.
- Non-alcoholic event passes are $15— For those who want to enjoy the music, atmosphere, and a creative selection of non-alcoholic beverages, this year we are offering a non-alcoholic event pass.
Get your membership here!
Support a Cause, Sip for a Purpose:
Just Brew It isn’t just about great beer; it’s about supporting Just Economics’ mission to promote living wages, affordable housing, and better transit in our community. Your membership directly contributes to positive change while you have a blast at the festival.