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, March 28, 2024
City Dance
Mar 28 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Thursday, April 4, 2024
Standup Comedy Contest
Apr 4 @ 7:00 pm
Pulp Lounge

Slice of Life Standup Comedy Contest at The Orange Peel’s Pulp
When: Thursday April 4, 2024.
7p-9p, doors at 6:30p
Where:
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge, 103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $15 (available at door or The Orange Peel website https://tinyurl.com/2abjkft4)
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!!
Free snacks while availability lasts!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley, featuring professional comics.
Comedy open mic is 3-5m each, comics get in free with free snacks!
The show’s Headliner will be selected by audience in an anonymous ballet after comics perform their sets.
They will write down their favorite top comic of the evening who will be paid & brought back to headline the end of the show with a closing 10-15m set!
.
Contact Michele at [email protected] for details
Host Hilliary Begley-
Hilliary will make you cry with laughter. With her larger that life personality!! Voted repeatedly Asheville’s Favorite comic in the Mountain Xpress. Film debut in the Netflix original Dumplin’ as Aunt Lucy, or “Jennifer Anniston’s fat sister,” In Austin Film Festival winning movie When We Last Spoke with Cloris Leachman, now streaming on Amazon Prime. https ://youtu.be/legRwEg4j-o

Saturday, April 6, 2024
Fairy Festival
Apr 6 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Horse Shoe Gap Village

Celebrate Spring and The Fairies at Horse Shoe Gap Village with Free Face Painting by The Sea Mither,
Fairy Hair, Scavenger Hunt, Games, music and more!

Tuesday, April 9, 2024
As Good as it Gets
Apr 9 @ 2:00 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center
“As Good as It Gets” is a heartwarming and comedic film directed by James L. Brooks, released in 1997. The film centers around the unlikely friendship that develops between three characters who are dealing with their own unique challenges.

Melvin Udall (played by Jack Nicholson) is a misanthropic and obsessive-compulsive novelist living in New York City. He thrives on his rigid routines and has a talent for alienating everyone he encounters. Carol Connelly (played by Helen Hunt) is a single mother and waitress who becomes one of Melvin’s regulars at the local diner. Simon Bishop (played by Greg Kinnear) is Melvin’s gay neighbor and an artist who becomes the victim of a violent assault.

When Simon is injured and left unable to care for his dog, Melvin is reluctantly drawn into helping him. This unexpected act of kindness sets off a chain of events that gradually transforms all three of their lives. As Melvin, Carol, and Simon navigate their personal struggles and insecurities, they form a unique bond that challenges their preconceptions about love, friendship, and what it means to be a better person.

“As Good as It Gets” is a touching and humorous exploration of the power of human connection and the capacity for personal growth and change. The film is renowned for its brilliant performances, especially by Jack Nicholson, who won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Melvin Udall. It delivers a heartwarming message about the transformative power of love and compassion.

Film Series: As Good as it Gets
Apr 9 @ 2:00 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center
Showings: 2 pm Matinee & 7 pm “As Good as It Gets” is a heartwarming and comedic film directed by James L. Brooks, released in 1997. The film centers around the unlikely friendship that develops between three characters who are dealing with their own unique challenges.

Melvin Udall (played by Jack Nicholson) is a misanthropic and obsessive-compulsive novelist living in New York City. He thrives on his rigid routines and has a talent for alienating everyone he encounters. Carol Connelly (played by Helen Hunt) is a single mother and waitress who becomes one of Melvin’s regulars at the local diner. Simon Bishop (played by Greg Kinnear) is Melvin’s gay neighbor and an artist who becomes the victim of a violent assault.

When Simon is injured and left unable to care for his dog, Melvin is reluctantly drawn into helping him. This unexpected act of kindness sets off a chain of events that gradually transforms all three of their lives. As Melvin, Carol, and Simon navigate their personal struggles and insecurities, they form a unique bond that challenges their preconceptions about love, friendship, and what it means to be a better person.

“As Good as It Gets” is a touching and humorous exploration of the power of human connection and the capacity for personal growth and change. The film is renowned for its brilliant performances, especially by Jack Nicholson, who won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Melvin Udall. It delivers a heartwarming message about the transformative power of love and compassion.

As Good as it Gets
Apr 9 @ 7:00 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center
“As Good as It Gets” is a heartwarming and comedic film directed by James L. Brooks, released in 1997. The film centers around the unlikely friendship that develops between three characters who are dealing with their own unique challenges.

Melvin Udall (played by Jack Nicholson) is a misanthropic and obsessive-compulsive novelist living in New York City. He thrives on his rigid routines and has a talent for alienating everyone he encounters. Carol Connelly (played by Helen Hunt) is a single mother and waitress who becomes one of Melvin’s regulars at the local diner. Simon Bishop (played by Greg Kinnear) is Melvin’s gay neighbor and an artist who becomes the victim of a violent assault.

When Simon is injured and left unable to care for his dog, Melvin is reluctantly drawn into helping him. This unexpected act of kindness sets off a chain of events that gradually transforms all three of their lives. As Melvin, Carol, and Simon navigate their personal struggles and insecurities, they form a unique bond that challenges their preconceptions about love, friendship, and what it means to be a better person.

“As Good as It Gets” is a touching and humorous exploration of the power of human connection and the capacity for personal growth and change. The film is renowned for its brilliant performances, especially by Jack Nicholson, who won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Melvin Udall. It delivers a heartwarming message about the transformative power of love and compassion.

Film Series: As Good as it Gets
Apr 9 @ 7:00 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center
Showings: 2 pm Matinee & 7 pm “As Good as It Gets” is a heartwarming and comedic film directed by James L. Brooks, released in 1997. The film centers around the unlikely friendship that develops between three characters who are dealing with their own unique challenges.

Melvin Udall (played by Jack Nicholson) is a misanthropic and obsessive-compulsive novelist living in New York City. He thrives on his rigid routines and has a talent for alienating everyone he encounters. Carol Connelly (played by Helen Hunt) is a single mother and waitress who becomes one of Melvin’s regulars at the local diner. Simon Bishop (played by Greg Kinnear) is Melvin’s gay neighbor and an artist who becomes the victim of a violent assault.

When Simon is injured and left unable to care for his dog, Melvin is reluctantly drawn into helping him. This unexpected act of kindness sets off a chain of events that gradually transforms all three of their lives. As Melvin, Carol, and Simon navigate their personal struggles and insecurities, they form a unique bond that challenges their preconceptions about love, friendship, and what it means to be a better person.

“As Good as It Gets” is a touching and humorous exploration of the power of human connection and the capacity for personal growth and change. The film is renowned for its brilliant performances, especially by Jack Nicholson, who won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Melvin Udall. It delivers a heartwarming message about the transformative power of love and compassion.

Thursday, April 11, 2024
Black in Asheville film screening at Black Wall Street AVL
Apr 11 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Black Wall Street AVL

Join us on April 11th as we celebrate Black History in Asheville!

“Black In Asheville” is a must-see documentary that shows the black history and cultural heritage of the Black community in Asheville. The film brings together Asheville residents and historians to recount the history of this community and preserve their stories for generations to come. It explores what life was like for slaves in Asheville during the Antebellum period, the conditions they were subjected to during the Civil War then the transition through Reconstruction, Jim Crow and Black Code Laws. It also shows how churches and schools were vital to the progression of Black Life. Join us and view this powerful film which will leave a lasting impact for everyone who watches it.

This film raises the question, “How much better off are Blacks today in a supposedly non-segregated Asheville and seeks to define where do we go from here?”

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn and be inspired – admission is completely FREE! Food Trucks available.

Mark your calendars and spread the word!

APRIL 11th | 6-8pm | 8 River Arts Place Asheville 28801

Hosted at: BLACK WALL STREET AVL

Sponsored by: Franklin School of Innovation

Save your seat NOW, limited seating available!

Saturday, April 13, 2024
Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival
Apr 13 all-day
The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge

Join us April 12-13, 2024, for two days of family-friendly fun! We’ll have storytelling, workshops, a quilt display, and more. If you can’t attend the festival in person but don’t want to miss the fun, you can sign up for an “online viewing” ticket. Festival tickets are free for students and teachers, individuals with disabilities, and those with low income and are low-cost for all others. Discounts are available.

Celebrate Appalachian Heritage at Fiddles and Folklife
Apr 13 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Warren Wilson College

On Saturday, April 13, Warren Wilson College will host Fiddles and Folklife, an annual Appalachian festival and old-time music and dance competition, with cash prizes for old-time fiddle, banjo, folksong, flatfooting, and string band. There will be a separate contest for youth in fiddle and banjo. Other activities include old-time music jams, food and craft vendors, folklife demonstrators, and a cake raffle. This event is free and open to the public.

Fiddles and Folklore takes place from 12 noon – 5 p.m., on the Warren Wilson College campus, in the historic Bryson Gym, 102 Upper College Road. Registration for contestants opens at 11:30 a.m. There is no entry fee for the contests. For more info, visit Warren Wilson College Music on Facebook, and click on the “Events” tab.

Sunday, April 14, 2024
Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic + Feature Comedy
Apr 14 all-day
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co

Sunday April 14 Standup Comedy at Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company hosted by Hilliary Begley with Derek Boskovich, James Rocco & Jordan Smith featuring and a professional comedy open mic. Get dinner drinks and laughs. Tickets at https://www.ashevillebrewing.com/buy-tickets

Monday, April 15, 2024
An Evening with the Cowboy Junkies
Apr 15 @ 7:30 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre
In 1988, Cowboy Junkies proved that there was an audience waiting for something quiet, beautiful and reflective. The Trinity Session was like a whisper that cut through the noise — and it was compelling. It stood out in the midst of the flash and bombast that came to define the late 80’s. The now classic recording combined folk, blues and rock in a way that had never been heard before and went on to sell more than a million copies.
Formed in Toronto in 1985 with siblings Michael Timmins on guitar, Margo Timmins on vocals, Peter Timmins on drums, and Michael’s lifelong friend Alan Anton on bass, the band has sparkled over the course of 26 albums. “I’ve known Alan longer than I’ve known Pete,” says Michael. “We were friends before Pete was born.”
Unlike most long-lasting groups, Cowboy Junkies have never had a break up or taken a sanity-saving hiatus. There’s an appreciation of each other that keeps them constantly working. “It’s that intimacy and understanding of what each one of us brings to the table,” says Michael. Cowboy Junkies’ will be performing a career-spanning show, including their new album, ‘Such Ferocious Beauty’, which was released worldwide on June 2, 2023 to universal critical acclaim.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Film screening: Robert Williams Mr. Bitchin’
Apr 18 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Enjoy a documentary feature that offers insight into the multiple American counter-cultures of the late 20th century by following the great American artist and underground legend Robert Williams’ extraordinary path. Robert Williams’ The Shattered Rose is on view in the current exhibition The New Salon: A Contemporary View.

Runtime: 1 hour 29 minutes. Two screenings from 5–8pm.

Saturday, April 20, 2024
Sweetwater 420 Fest 2024
Apr 20 all-day
Pullman Yards

Sweetwater 420 Fest 2024

Bookmark your favorites to build your schedule and get reminders
View All
Saturday, April 20
Sunday, April 21
Date To Be Announced
Beck
Slightly Stoopid
Larkin Poe
Hayes Carll
The Band of Heathens
houndmouth
Cory Wong
Big Gigantic
Little Stranger
Bombargo
Gov’t Mule
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
Canna Comic Cuisine?–Infused Dessert Show
Apr 20 @ 9:30 pm
Rezonanance

Rezonance & Slice of Life Comedy present **Canna Comic Cuisine —4.20 Infused Dessert Comedy Show**! Get ready for a night of laughter, delicious food, and a touch of cannabis-infused fun. Join us on **Sat Apr 20 2024** at **9:30 PM** for a unique experience that combines comedy with a gourmet dinner featuring cannabis-infused dishes. Our talented comedians will keep you entertained throughout the evening, while our chefs prepare a mouthwatering dessert that will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind event that promises to be a memorable and hilarious night out!

Saturday 4.20.24

Held at a secret location in downtown Asheville, 21+

Your $42 ticket includes infused dessert and a canned drink. Location given out with ticket purchase. Tickets are very limited so book this date now.

Standup Comedy Hosted by Hilliary Begley (netflix Amazon Prime, Votedt Avl Best Comic 5+) featuring Cayla Clark, Miranda Allison & Cody Hughes

Your Comedy Host Hilliary Begley-

Hilliary will make you cry with laughter with her larger than life personality!! Voted repeatedly Asheville’s Favorite comic in the Mountain Xpress, Hilliary’s reach goes well beyond the city to all over the country. Film debut in the Netflix original Dumplin’ as Aunt Lucy, or “Jennifer Anniston’s fat sister,” and in Austin Film Festival winning movie When We Last Spoke with Cloris Leachman, now streaming on Amazon Prime. https ://youtu.be/legRwEg4j-o

Featuring Cayla Clark-

a California native (through no fault of her own), moved to Asheville three years ago and quickly fell in love with the local comedy scene. She created and co-produces Blind Date Live, a quarterly comedic dating show, Bad Date Mic, and several other dating-related events around town. She is also a playwright, and has had original works in the Fringe Festival for the past three years.

Feature Cody Hughes-

Cody is a comedian from Asheville NC. He’s lived in a few different big cities and a lot of comedians like him and a lot of other comedians have heard good things about him from the comedians who like him. A few comedians don’t like him and he can’t do anything about that. Oh well. He has opened for Lewis Black, John Oliver, Maria Bamford, and many others

Feature Miranda Allison-

Sweet but sassy, Miranda Allison is an up and coming stand up comedian with a timid, yet audacious sense of humor. From right here in Asheville, NC, Miranda is quickly becoming a fan favorite in the comedy scene. You can find her co-hosting The Hot Seat on Mondays and at other comedy shows in the area.

Sunday, April 21, 2024
Sweetwater 420 Fest 2024
Apr 21 all-day
Pullman Yards

Sweetwater 420 Fest 2024

Bookmark your favorites to build your schedule and get reminders
View All
Saturday, April 20
Sunday, April 21
Date To Be Announced
Beck
Slightly Stoopid
Larkin Poe
Hayes Carll
The Band of Heathens
houndmouth
Cory Wong
Big Gigantic
Little Stranger
Bombargo
Gov’t Mule
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
Tail Chaser 250
Apr 21 all-day
Deerwoode Reserve

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!

2nd Annual Back Alley Hempfest
Apr 21 @ 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Back Alley Boutique & Bud Bar

Back Alley Boutique & Bud Bar is hosting the 2nd Annual Back Alley Hempfest on Sunday 04/21/2024 from 2-7pm. Join us for this free event at 28 Oak St. and at the Depot Plaza right across Trade St. There will be live music, local vendors, live glass-blowing, fire-spinning, stilt-walking, and more! About 30 Local Vendors will be offering a wide variety of arts, crafts, gifts, & goodies! There will be a scavenger hunt to enter for door prizes scattered among the vendors with hourly prizes! There will also be a rolling competition & 420 special smoke session in the back Bud Bar & Lounge area of Back Alley Boutique & Bud Bar. Come check out all the festivities!

Music Schedule:
28 Oak St.
King Chewie 2-3:30pm
Nina Gi 3:45-5:15pm
Acklen Walker 5:30-7pm
Depot Plaza
Moonshine State 2-4pm
The Ribald Riffers 4:20-7pm

Thank You to our growing list of Sponsors!:
Tettra Hydra Glass, Astria Farm, Kaleidoscope Studios Art, Hypnotic Massage Sleep Boutique, Yetees Design Screenprinting, Carrie Bass Photography, eARThly Minds Gallery, Social Shay Photography, The Moth Queen, and Back Alley Boutique & Bud Bar.

TRAIL RUNNING FILM FESTIVAL
Apr 21 @ 5:30 pm
The Orange Peel

The Trail Running Film Festival presented by Tera Pruett of Unstoppable Strength, Endurance & Adventure Coaching is back for 2024, and is making its way to Asheville, the southeast’s hub for trail running, hiking, camping, climbing, cycling, and outdoor adventure.

This event promises an inspiring night filled with films, community, and a celebration of the trail and ultra community. Independent filmmakers from around the world will showcase their work by bringing stories of adventure, inclusivity, wilderness, art, and diversity to the forefront.

The festival aims to capture the spirit of the trail running community, showcasing narratives from various perspectives. From those at the back of the pack to the party pacers, from individuals defying odds to those overcoming obstacles, and from record-breakers to those aiming for the fastest known time — the festival covers a spectrum of stories that resonate with the EVERYDAY ATHLETE.

Attendees can expect a diverse range of films that highlight the unique and inspiring journeys of individuals from all walks of life. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or someone just beginning their outdoor adventure, this festival provides a platform for everyone to connect, be inspired, and celebrate the incredible stories within the trail running community.

So, get ready for an unforgettable evening of adventure, inspiration, and a sense of community at The Trail Running Film Festival in Asheville. Lace up your trail shoes, bring your enthusiasm, and immerse yourself in the world of trail running and outdoor exploration.

Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Fiesta Hendersonville
Apr 23 @ 6:00 am – 8:00 pm
South Main Street

Fiesta Hendersonville is a unique opportunity to experience the best of Latin American countries in downtown Hendersonville, Enjoy live music and dance, Feast on Latin American delicacies, such as pupusas from El Salvador, empanadas from Argentina, and chicharrones, esquites, and elotes from Mexico, and Browse both local art and the Latin marketplace of vendors, Free, Organized by Hola Carolina, Hendersonville Visitor Center Stage and South Main Street, Hendersonville, HolaCarolina.org

Wednesday, April 24, 2024
RITUAL MOUNTAIN BIKE FILM TOUR
Apr 24 @ 7:00 pm
The Orange Peel

Since humankind invented the wheel, we’ve been determined to take it to new heights, push it to the limit, and revel in the experience. Ritual is a big screen celebration of the indomitable human spirit that defines the sport of mountain biking with unforgettable film-going experiences. The film series highlights incredible athletes, creative filmmakers, engaging storylines and stunning cinematography; bringing riders together in mountain biking’s greatest cities and venues.

RITUAL will unite passionate riders for a unique celebration of bike culture Learn more about the films, riders, tour dates, and more at

ritualbike.com

Thursday, April 25, 2024
“The Last Ecstatic Days” Film Screening and Discussion
Apr 25 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Stillpoint Wellness

On Thursday, April 25, 2024, Stillpoint Wellness will host an in-person screening of “The Last Ecstatic Days.” Doors will open at 5:30 and the screening will begin at 6:00 pm.

After the screening will be a community discussion facilitated by Tiffany Sauls and Tandy Wells, which will wrap around 8:00 – 8:30 pm.

Come early to find parking!

Building Bridges Community Talkback
Apr 25 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Franklin School of Innovation

Building Bridges of Asheville invites you to a screening and talkback session of the film, “13th”.

In this thought-provoking documentary scholars, activists and politicians analyze the criminalization of African Americans and the U.S. prison boom.

Filmmaker Ava DuVernay explores the history of racial inequality in the United States, focusing on the fact that the nation’s prisons are disproportionately filled with African Americans.

The film will be followed by a guided conversation facilitated by Building Bridges board members and Niconda Garcia & Nex Millen.

Building Bridges fosters antiracism by educating people on how to intentionally engage in dialogues on racism. BBAVL.org

You have a part to play in this work, and this event is a great point of entry.

City Dance
Apr 25 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Saturday, April 27, 2024
Food Box Delivery volunteers needed!
Apr 27 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

WNCAP (Western North Carolina AIDS Project) Dedicated to preventing new cases of HIV/AIDS and promoting self-sufficiency in people living with HIV. WNCAP provides HIV-related client support, prevention, education and advocacy activities guided by the belief that all people are entitled to equal access to health care and disease prevention.
WNCAP needs volunteers for the 2nd & 4th Saturday morning Food Box Delivery: 10am-noon. Ride with another team member and deliver pre-packed boxes of food to home-bound, food insecure families living in the Asheville/ Buncombe area. Requires ability to lift 50 pounds, good driving record, and confidentiality. More info at [email protected] , 828-252-7489 ext. 315.

Friday, May 3, 2024
The Controlled Chaos Film Festival
May 3 @ 7:30 pm
WCU Fine Art Museum at Bardo Arts Center

Rounding out the 2023/2024 Stage and Screen Main Stage Season is the most exciting single night of the academic year, the Controlled Chaos Film Festival, a celebration of numerous narrative and documentary films created by the students in the Film and Television Production program. For more information on the festival explore: controlledchaos.wcu.edu

Please Note:

  • NO photography, videography, or recording of any kind.
  • This event includes language which may not be suitable for all audiences.
  • The content of each film in the Controlled Chaos Film Festival will vary.
Saturday, May 4, 2024
Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert
May 4 @ 7:00 pm
Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Experience the magic of a galaxy far, far away at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on Saturday, May 4th, 2024. The Greenville Symphony Orchestra presents “Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert.” Enjoy the iconic film with a live performance by GSO of John Williams’ Oscar®-winning score. Feel the force as the orchestra delivers an unforgettable family-friendly event.

Tickets go on sale Tuesday, January 16 at 10:00 am and can be purchased online at BSWArena.com. Don’t miss this chance to be part of Star Wars like never before. May the force be with you!

Link: https://www.bonsecoursarena.com/events/detail/starwars-greenvilesymphonyorchestra-greenville

Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Davy Knowles / Jeffrey Gaines
May 7 @ 8:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

DAVY KNOWLES
Whether playing acoustic, mandolin, national steel, or screaming electric guitar, Davy Knowles has an unmistakable style.

Knowles has several top-5 Billboard Blues charting albums under his belt, high profile TV appearances (Jimmy Kimmel Live and CBS Good Morning America among others), and has been praised with high accolades from heroes and press alike – but it’s not just the music industry who has taken note. Knowles was also the very first artist in history to perform live to the International Space Station directly from mission control in Houston TX, and has had his music taken to the Space Station by two astronauts, Nicole Stott and Ron Garan, on their respective missions orbiting Earth.

Never one to be satisfied or to sit still, Knowles has explored multiple genres and styles, from the hard-hitting 70’s classic rock influenced album ‘Three Miles From Avalon’, to the haunting acoustic delta blues of ‘1932’, and the sweet, soul-searching folk of 2023’s ‘If I Should Wander’.

Whether spending an evening onstage armed with just an acoustic guitar, or wielding his well worn and trusty Telecaster while fronting his blues/rock trio – and at any point in between the two – Davy Knowles is one of the most versatile and formidable songwriters, vocalists and musicians in the world today. A true artist in every sense of the word.

JEFFREY GAINES

Jeffrey Gaines has been heralded for his soul-searching lyrics and his powerful live performances. With only his voice and a guitar for accompaniment, Gaines has earned a reputation as a captivating performer, entertaining his audiences worldwide.

Throughout his three-decade recording career, Gaines has maintained an impressive standard for soul-searching, introspective lyrics and catchy, uplifting melodies. Since bursting on the scene with his self-titled 1992 debut album, the charismatic singer-songwriter-guitarist has built a beloved body of recordings that’s won him a large and deeply devoted international fan base.

Gaines has been pursuing musical transcendence for much of his life. Raised in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, by soul-music-loving parents, he began his musical life playing guitar in local cover combos, before his songwriting muse became too insistent to ignore. He soon landed his first record deal shortly after graduating from high school, and in 1992 released his widely acclaimed debut album Jeffrey Gaines. The eponymous disc won massive amounts of critical and audience acclaim, spawning the hit “Hero in Me.” Somewhat Slightly Dazed (1994) and Galore (1998) further expanded his audience. Interview magazine described Gaines’ work as “soul-searching” and “refreshingly free of jargon, sentiment or cliché.”

With more than a quarter-century of recording and performing under his belt, Jeffrey Gaines is enjoying life and music more than ever. “Nowadays, I know what the job is about so there’s nothing to stress about, he says. “I know that there’s people out there who want it, so I have the opportunity to extend their experience. I guess I could lay my albums all out and see that they tell a story, but personally I prefer to keep looking forward.”

Friday, May 10, 2024
Movies in the Park: Free Family Films
May 10 @ 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Pack Square Park

Movies in the Park returns with free family favorite films projected on a massive outdoor screen in Pack Square Park just after dusk on the second Friday of the month! Community members are invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs to the beloved summer tradition produced by Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) and sponsored by Au Pair in America.

The APR Rec n Roll Play Zone opens about an hour before showtime with games, music, and other activities for kids and teens, as well as themed giveaways while supplies last.

.:. Movies in the Park 2024 Lineup .:.
🎩 May 10, begins around 8:25pm – Wonka – Kids receive free bottles of bubbles
🕶 June 14, begins around 8:45pm – Barbie – Kids snag free pink and black sunglasses with UV400 lenses providing 100% UVA and UVB protection
🦝 July 12, begins around 8:45pm – Guardians of the Galaxy – Kids get free Recycling Raccoon coloring books
🤠 August 9, begins around 8:25pm – Toy Story – Kids receive unique rubber duck toys that change color in water
.:. Make a Plan .:.

🌜 All movies begin after dusk in Pack Square Park on 80 Court Plaza in downtown Asheville. Approximate showtimes listed above, but plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior.
🥰 Bring blankets and folding chairs for comfort.
🎨 APR Rec n Roll Play Zone activities start approximately an hour before showtime.
👛 Bring money for treats from local vendors Kona Ice of Asheville and Kernel Mike’s World Famous Kettle Corn.
🌮 Food truck and food tent spaces available for vendors who sell more substantial food like pizza, sandwiches, and other entrees. Please contact Calvin Owens at [email protected] or (828) 747-1347 for more info.
🚲 Parking is free in marked spaces on city streets and in city-owned lots on Marjorie and Valley streets after 6pm, so there’s no need to feed the meter.
🚫 Pets, smoking, and alcohol prohibited.
🥳 Have fun! Dress up as your favorite characters, invite friends, and celebrate cool summer nights. Be sure to tag APR on Instagram and Facebook.
⛈ Outdoor events may be impacted by summer weather. Follow APR on Instagram and Facebook for cancellation announcements.

Sunday, May 12, 2024
LEAF Retreat
May 12 all-day
Lake Eden, Black Mountain, NC

LEAF Retreat is the perfect opportunity to dive deeply into our World Changers theme. The intimate gathering of 1,500 festivalgoers offers time and space to connect with artists not just through their performances onstage, but also through workshops and masterclasses. It’s a time for exploration, discovery, and coming together as a community to share ideas and inspiration.

DATES: May 9-12, 2024

CIMAFUNK

Afro-Cuban Funk
(pictured top of page at at LEAF in 2022 for a pop-up)

BIG RICHARD

All-Female Bluegrass Quartet

BLACK OPRY

Black Americana Artist Collective

GANGSTAGRASS

Bluegrass/Hip Hop Fusion

PIERCE FREELON

Grammy-nominated Family Music Artist

With LEAF Favorites such as:

MAMA AND THE RUCKUS

ANDRE LASSALLE

CAROL RIFKIN

CHINOBAY OF UGANDA AND DANCE OF HOPE

MÉNAGE

DANZA AZTECA CHICHIMECA

CHARLY LOWRY

JAMES NAVÉ

CACTUS OF 23 SKIDOO

MCKINNEY

STREET CREATURE PUPPET COLLECTIVE

SARAUNIYA ZULU

ADAMA DEMBELE

MONIKA GUERRA

MIN XIAO FEN AND RIVER GUERGUERIAN

DR. ADITI SETHI

HAVIKEN HAYES

LISA SMITH

TOYBOX THEATRE PUPPETRY SLAM

DAVID LAMOTTE

MASANKHO BANDA

JEFF FIREWALKER AND EAGLE CONDOR COUNCIL

FLAMENCO APPALACHIA

SUN SOO MARTIAL ARTS

MOUNTAIN CIRCUS ARTS

UNIFIRE THEATRE

PLAYING WITH FYRE

ASHEVILLE JAZZ ORCHESTRA

LEAF SINGER-SONGWRITER COMPETITION

IVORY COAST LEAF INTERNATIONAL

TICKETS: $50-$250 for adults. Weekend Passes must be purchased by LEAF Members; Youth tickets are available; Kids younger than 10 are free! WeX Volunteering Options are available. Weekend passes include access to camping at Lake Eden. Passes for car camping, RVs, and private rustic camp cabins are limited and available through the website. Early Bird Tickets End February 1st!