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.
BLUEGRASS JAM
Hosted by Drew Matulich
Don’t miss your chance to check out some of the best pickers from all over WNC at our amazing Bluegrass Jam curated by the talented Drew Matulich — every Thursday starting at 7:00 pm! A real show-stopping performance only at Jack of the Wood! Open jam starts at 9:30 pm.
Plan to collaborate with other musicians at Sideways Farm & Brewery in Etowah. Bring your instruments and voices and enjoy making music and networking with other artists, while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Food truck is on site and beverages available for purchase from Sideways (small
batch craft beers, hard jun, ciders, wine, and non alcoholic drinks). Family, fans, friends, and leashed dogs are all welcome!
During winter months enjoy playing under the covered, sheltered, heated porch! And during the summer months enjoy
collaborating in the fields, on the stage, or under the patio
The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Drum Circle
The Asheville Downtown Association is proud to facilitate the return of Asheville’s iconic Drum Circle. Feel the rhythm and join the beat as the community comes together for an evening of drumming, dancing, and camaraderie.
BRIAR BRANCH is a homegrown, hometown string band. Long time Black
Mountain residents, Julia Weatherford and Pearl Shirley, mother and daughter, have
been singing and playing together since the 1980s. Expect to hear mountain
music with sweet vocal harmonies, toe-tapping banjo songs, and hard driving Old
Time fiddle tunes. Be delighted with magical hand crafted “Crankies”, moving
panoramas illustrating song verses. Feel the pull of sweet sad ballads with rich
cello accompaniment.
JULIA WEATHERFORD – VOCALS, CELLO, FIDDLE, GUITAR
Julia Weatherford has been a full-time artist/musician for as long as anyone can
remember. She is veteran performer on both cello and fiddle with notable
performing groups that range from The Asheville Symphony to the world fusion
Akira Satake Band. She was the artistic director of the legendary Black Mountain
Festival in its early years, and more recently the Coordinator of Fiddle Week at
The Swannanoa Gathering. Currently she performs regionally with StrathSpan and
Ceilidh Doon, and is the cellist of choice for the Canote Brothers, and is the
mother of Pearl.
PEARL ANGELINE SHIRLEY – VOCALS, FIDDLE, BANJO.
Pearl Shirley grew up in Black Mountain, NC, soaking up traditional Appalachian
music and dance almost without noticing. She picked up a tiny violin at age 5, and
since then has fiddled her way through hundreds of foot-stomping contra dances
and folk concerts. Pearl has toured with the popular contra dance band Mock
Turtle Soup, and she currently performs with the acclaimed old-time band, Blue
Eyed Girl. Pearl is the daughter of Julia.
Tickets are $20. Doors open at 6:30pm and seating is first come first served. Online ticket sales end an hour before the performance time, but there may still be tickets available for purchase at the door. Call BMCA for availability at 828.669.0930.
Visit LEAF Global Arts every Saturday for an in-house cultural exchange with Adama Dembele. Experience the Ivory Coast with our Culture Keeper from the House of Djembe.
Locals and visitors alike come together at downtown’s Pack Square Park “along about sundown,” or at 7:00 pm for those who wear a watch, and continues until 10:00 pm. Concessions are available!
2024 Dates
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Shindig on the Green
July 6, 13, 20, 27
August 10, 17, 24
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The stage show takes place on the Bascom Lamar Lunsford stage, named for the founder of the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival. Since the outdoor event’s inception in 1967, hundreds of thousands of individuals from across the region and throughout the world have shared and enjoyed the rich traditional music and dance heritage of the Southern Appalachian Mountains in this outdoor setting.
Shindig on the Green remains a free event due in part to net proceeds from ticket sales to the nation’s longest continually running festival, the granddaddy of all festivals, the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival.
![Transfig_Logo](https://www.harvest-records.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Transfig_Logo.png)
Since day one here at Harvest Records in West Asheville, we’ve strived to create a uniquely warm & welcoming space dedicated to the discovery of music. We’re excited to announce that this summer marks 20 years of doing just that! And we think that fact is worth celebrating.
This year Transfigurations is departing from our traditional music festival format and presenting a weekend celebration of free events in Asheville, NC over three days on August 22-24, 2024. We’re making all of these events free as a way to say thanks to our community for supporting us over the past 20 years.
If you or your business would like to support us in this effort, please reach out to [email protected] about becoming a sponsor!
Doors at 7pm, Show at 8pm
Closing out the Transfigurations IV weekend celebration will be Asheville-based electro-pop multi-instrumentalist Helado Negro, improvisational jazz composer/producer Carlos Niño & Friends (featuring Surya Botofasina and Aaron Shaw), and NY-based experimental-pop artist Zenizen. Three eclectic sets at the Orange Peel on Saturday, August 24th.
Jack’s Bluegrass Brunch kicks off every Sunday at 12 noon — with lively bluegrass tunes courtesy of The Jack of the Wood Bluegrass Brunch Boys from 1-3pm. Sip a Bloody Mary or Mimosa or a warm Irish coffee. Tasty brunch specials alongside our regular menu and 18 taps of rotating craft brews! Sláinte, y’all!
Jack’s long-running Traditional Irish Music Session is the perfect way to enjoy the Celtic-influenced sounds of talented pluckers from all over WNC & further afield! Stop in to enjoy a pint or afternoon Irish coffee with the music! Sláinte!
The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Mondays: Pickin’ in the Park
Enjoy performances by local singer-songwriters in an intimate and relaxed setting. Experience the rich musical heritage of Asheville as talented musicians share their stories and songs.
The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Tuesdays: Hoop Jam
Join the fun with hula hoops and a live DJ. Whether you’re a seasoned hooper or a beginner, this vibrant event invites everyone to dance, spin, and groove to the music in a welcoming and energetic atmosphere.
Grab some dinner and a pint while enjoying our long-running Old-Time jam! Featuring many talented musicians from the local WNC area, our traditional Appalachian mountain music jam runs from 5-9pm every Wednesday night at Jack of the Wood!
Sing songs that celebrate Peace & Community, with Resident Teaching Artist Melissa McKinney. Sing, play, drum, and dance while learning songs from the Justice Choir Songbook.
Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
$15 drop-in class
All ages welcome.
Karaoke Night at Hickory Tavern
BLUEGRASS JAM
Hosted by Drew Matulich
Don’t miss your chance to check out some of the best pickers from all over WNC at our amazing Bluegrass Jam curated by the talented Drew Matulich — every Thursday starting at 7:00 pm! A real show-stopping performance only at Jack of the Wood! Open jam starts at 9:30 pm.
![](https://boxoffice.etix.com/venueResources/ticket/images/27095_ticket/esmf-poster-1080x1350.png)
2024 ESMF https://earlscruggsmusicfest.com/ Aug 30 – Sep 1, 2024 (Hours vary by day)
General Admission – $175
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Children under age 12 are free with a paying adult
● Access to the floor of the International Arena at Flint Hill Stage
● May bring blankets or chairs for seating – limitations apply, see FAQs
Grandstand – $250
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Access to the floor of the International Arena at Flint Hill Stage
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● Access to covered seating and concessions, including bars and washrooms, in the Grandstand
Scruggs Patron VIP – $450
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Plus, access to designated VIP area on the International Arena floor
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● Includes dinner (deli sandwiches, chips, cookies, snacks), Two hour happy hour each day with access to a private bar, and washrooms on the second floor of the International Arena
● Exclusive ESMF merchandise item
● VIP Benefits apply only to the Flint Hill Stage (main)
Ridge VIP – $650
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Plus, access to designated VIP area on the International Arena floor
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● Includes gourmet food service with tables and waiters on the third floor of International Arena, with balcony seating overlooking the Arena
● Private bars and washrooms in the Ridge VIP area
● Exclusive ESMF merchandise item
● VIP Benefits apply only to the Flint Hill Stage (main)
Bluegrass Cabana – $5,000
● Access for 8 to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Private cabana on the floor of the International Arena, Includes private bar and food service
● Access to private washrooms
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● VIP Benefits apply only to the Flint Hill Stage (main)
Music at the Vineyard – Sandy Herrault
Join us Friday, August 30 from 3-6 pm for live music at the vineyard with fiddler and violinist Sandy Herrault! Sandy is a classically trained violinist who performs regularly at area venues, weddings, and other events. Her greatest pleasure is performing at some of the area’s most vibrant venues. From breweries to wineries, at weddings, corporate events, artist events, she puts her own flair into the songs she covers, from the modern pop/rock of Coldplay, to classic songs of the Beatles, to country songs like “Take Me Home Country Roads”.
Sandy’s influences are wide, which inspires her to create her own interpretations of well-known songs on the violin. Her style is original and unmistakably her own, encompassing Pop, Classical, Celtic, Gypsy, and others. Sandy has a passion for multiple genres, including popular music from the 60s to today. One moment, she may be deep in a Bob Marley reggae trance and the next tenderly playing Adele or entrenched in Lynyrd Skynyrd. Sandy feels a kinship to all these songs as she brings them to life on her fiddle. Come on down to the Burntshirt Vineyards Winery and Tasting Room on Friday from 3-6 PM for an afternoon of fantastic musicianship, food, and wine! We can’t wait to see you here!
Plan to collaborate with other musicians at Sideways Farm & Brewery in Etowah. Bring your instruments and voices and enjoy making music and networking with other artists, while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Food truck is on site and beverages available for purchase from Sideways (small
batch craft beers, hard jun, ciders, wine, and non alcoholic drinks). Family, fans, friends, and leashed dogs are all welcome!
During winter months enjoy playing under the covered, sheltered, heated porch! And during the summer months enjoy
collaborating in the fields, on the stage, or under the patio
The Asheville Downtown Association is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Pritchard Park Arts and Culture Series, made possible through a generous partnership with the Trina Mullen Foundation, City of Asheville Parks and Recreation, ArtsAVL, and Explore Asheville. This summer series will run from May 28 through August 30, featuring exciting activations every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Drum Circle
The Asheville Downtown Association is proud to facilitate the return of Asheville’s iconic Drum Circle. Feel the rhythm and join the beat as the community comes together for an evening of drumming, dancing, and camaraderie.
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Get ready to groove to the rhythm of the Caribbean at LEAF Global’s monthly DJ Dance Party! Taking place on the final Friday of every month, this exciting event invites music lovers of all ages and backgrounds to come together for a night of pure entertainment and cultural celebration.
Step into the vibrant atmosphere of LEAF Global, where every floor comes alive with infectious beats and irresistible energy. DJ Haviken Hayes’ dynamic mixes of Caribbean, dancehall, and global sounds will keep the dance floor buzzing all night long.
For those looking to perfect their moves, professional salsa instructor Monika Guerra will be offering free salsa lessons starting at 8 p.m. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, Monika’s expert guidance will have you salsa-ing with confidence in no time.
Embrace the spirit of the Caribbean with a themed ambiance that transports you to tropical shores. All are welcome to join in the festivities, so grab your friends and come dressed in your best Caribbean-inspired attire for a night to remember.
Admission to the DJ Dance Party is $15 at the door, with drinks and snacks available to keep you fueled throughout the evening. Indulge in a selection of refreshing beverages including margaritas, mojitos, and more, provided by Flybird & Uno Mas.
King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard are coming to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville on August 30, 2024.
![](https://boxoffice.etix.com/venueResources/ticket/images/27095_ticket/esmf-poster-1080x1350.png)
2024 ESMF https://earlscruggsmusicfest.com/ Aug 30 – Sep 1, 2024 (Hours vary by day)
General Admission – $175
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Children under age 12 are free with a paying adult
● Access to the floor of the International Arena at Flint Hill Stage
● May bring blankets or chairs for seating – limitations apply, see FAQs
Grandstand – $250
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Access to the floor of the International Arena at Flint Hill Stage
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● Access to covered seating and concessions, including bars and washrooms, in the Grandstand
Scruggs Patron VIP – $450
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Plus, access to designated VIP area on the International Arena floor
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● Includes dinner (deli sandwiches, chips, cookies, snacks), Two hour happy hour each day with access to a private bar, and washrooms on the second floor of the International Arena
● Exclusive ESMF merchandise item
● VIP Benefits apply only to the Flint Hill Stage (main)
Ridge VIP – $650
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Plus, access to designated VIP area on the International Arena floor
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● Includes gourmet food service with tables and waiters on the third floor of International Arena, with balcony seating overlooking the Arena
● Private bars and washrooms in the Ridge VIP area
● Exclusive ESMF merchandise item
● VIP Benefits apply only to the Flint Hill Stage (main)
Bluegrass Cabana – $5,000
● Access for 8 to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Private cabana on the floor of the International Arena, Includes private bar and food service
● Access to private washrooms
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● VIP Benefits apply only to the Flint Hill Stage (main)
Visit LEAF Global Arts every Saturday for an in-house cultural exchange with Adama Dembele. Experience the Ivory Coast with our Culture Keeper from the House of Djembe.
Come out to Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room and Winery Saturday, August 31 for live music at the vineyard with Ashley Heath! Asheville songwriter Ashley Heath has been winning over the hearts of Americana music lovers since she gave up her barista apron in the Spring of 2015. Heath delivers her signature blend of sultry blues and anthemic rock n’ roll with a voice described as “velvet soul”. She is often compared to musical influences Bonnie Raitt, Grace Potter, and Susan Tedeschi. Yet Heath still manages to find a voice all her own.
Ashley is recognized across Appalachia for her strong songwriting and vocal abilities. Ashley has made the WNCW Top 100 list and Mountain Xpress’ “Best Of” several years in a row. She recently appeared at Merlefest, Bonnaroo, and Shakori Hills, supporting artists including Donna The Buffalo, Del McCoury Band, Anders Osborne, and Shamarr Allen. With her band “The Heathens”, Ashley aims to bring her message of hope and resilience to audiences everywhere. Ashley will be performing at Burntshirt Vineyards in Hendersonville Saturday from 4-7 PM. Join us for food, wine, and a musical good time! We look forward to seeing you here!
![](https://boxoffice.etix.com/venueResources/ticket/images/27095_ticket/esmf-poster-1080x1350.png)
2024 ESMF https://earlscruggsmusicfest.com/ Aug 30 – Sep 1, 2024 (Hours vary by day)
General Admission – $175
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Children under age 12 are free with a paying adult
● Access to the floor of the International Arena at Flint Hill Stage
● May bring blankets or chairs for seating – limitations apply, see FAQs
Grandstand – $250
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Access to the floor of the International Arena at Flint Hill Stage
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● Access to covered seating and concessions, including bars and washrooms, in the Grandstand
Scruggs Patron VIP – $450
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Plus, access to designated VIP area on the International Arena floor
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● Includes dinner (deli sandwiches, chips, cookies, snacks), Two hour happy hour each day with access to a private bar, and washrooms on the second floor of the International Arena
● Exclusive ESMF merchandise item
● VIP Benefits apply only to the Flint Hill Stage (main)
Ridge VIP – $650
● Access to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Plus, access to designated VIP area on the International Arena floor
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● Includes gourmet food service with tables and waiters on the third floor of International Arena, with balcony seating overlooking the Arena
● Private bars and washrooms in the Ridge VIP area
● Exclusive ESMF merchandise item
● VIP Benefits apply only to the Flint Hill Stage (main)
Bluegrass Cabana – $5,000
● Access for 8 to festival grounds, workshops, onsite activities, and secondary stage
● Private cabana on the floor of the International Arena, Includes private bar and food service
● Access to private washrooms
● Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult
● VIP Benefits apply only to the Flint Hill Stage (main)
Jack’s Bluegrass Brunch kicks off every Sunday at 12 noon — with lively bluegrass tunes courtesy of The Jack of the Wood Bluegrass Brunch Boys from 1-3pm. Sip a Bloody Mary or Mimosa or a warm Irish coffee. Tasty brunch specials alongside our regular menu and 18 taps of rotating craft brews! Sláinte, y’all!
Jack’s long-running Traditional Irish Music Session is the perfect way to enjoy the Celtic-influenced sounds of talented pluckers from all over WNC & further afield! Stop in to enjoy a pint or afternoon Irish coffee with the music! Sláinte!