The Asheville Wine Experience will Launch on New Year's Eve

December 31 - The Asheville Wine Experience is launched with the first in a series of ultimate dining experiences, combining a wine expert with a top chef in a spectacular location to elevate your senses to the utmost. Susi Gott Séguret, of the Seasonal School of Culinary Arts and Bob Bowles of the Asheville Wine & Food Festival join forces to guide Asheville’s sense of taste in an exploration of the very best gustative adventures possible.

Chef Denny Trantham and Wine Expert Kevin Schwartz, both long-time revolutionary presences at the Grove Park Inn, will be joining forces for a luxurious French-style réveillon, each dish corresponding with a sigh for the year behind and a wish for the year ahead, in the exclusive tenth floor suite at the Hotel Indigo.

From 8 PM until midnight, ten courses will be served, along with five exceptional wines, to the musical illustrations of celebrated jazz vibraphonist Paul Babelay. A spectacular view of Asheville will stretch out below you.

The cost is $150, payable on Event Brite, and benefits will go towards creating a scholarship for 12-21 year old youths seeking culinary and taste education. The number of spaces is limited, so reserve quickly.

New Year's Celebration at Asheville's Fun Depot

December 31   New Year's Celebration at The Fun Depot   Celebrate the end of 2012 and the beginning of 2013 with lots of FUN at Fun Depot. You will be able to enjoy 3 hours of unlimited FUN for $15 per person. Both groups and individuals are welcome. The Depot Diner will be open and there will even be a live band and party favors.

New Year's Eve Speical on Asheville Inn Getaway

Save $25 on an Asheville Inn Getaway for New Year's Eve

Choose from a variety of Asheville Inns and Bed and Breakfasts in or near Asheville NC.  Whether you're looking for mountain views  or downtown convenience you'll find just the right Inn for your New Year's Eve Getaway. Ring in the new year in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina and enjoy a stress free beginning for 2013. Reserve online to get the $25 discount.

Get a list of participating Asheville area Inns, see photos and book online HERE

Peace on Earth, Goodwill to ALL!

Winter Wonderland at the Grove Arcade continues until January 2

Now through January 2 is the last chance to enjoy  Winter Wonderland at the Grove Arcade.  For the seventh year, the Arcade will display entries from the National Gingerbread House Competition and beautiful holiday décor in a Winter Wonderland setting.

Visitors to the building will notice new flocked trees on the spiral staircases, a beautiful tree and lighted antique deer vignette in the West Arcade entry and much more. Do you last minute shoping the Arcade's stores and galleries for the perfect holiday gift.

Last Chance to see the Blue Ridge Fiber Show at the North Carolina Arboretum

Now through January 2   Blue Ridge Fiber Show: Into the Gardens  at the North Carolina Arboretum. An international, biennial celebration of fiberarts Sponsored by The Western North Carolina Fibers/ Handweavers Guild, Inc. AN Opening Reception was held October 2 in the Education Center 2nd Floor Gallery.

The North Carolina Arboretum  includes magnificent gardens and miles of woodland trails. The Arboretum hosts continual special events and touring shows. Just as our experience of nature is intimate, visitors to The North Carolina Arboretum connect with plants in personal ways that are as diverse and rich as the land itself. Whether you enjoy strolling through gardens, exploring exhibits, enriching your mind or hiking and biking, the Arboretum offers activities for all age.

The North Carolina Arboretum is located at 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way in Asheville NC.

Holiday WIne Tasting at Asheville's Appalachian Vintner

December 22 -  This Saturday Appalachian Vintner is hosting a huge holiday wine tasting with all the trimmings.  The wine shop is well stocked and ready to help you pick out that perfect bottle of wine or beer, chocolate, jam, coffee, bar goods and a massive wine and beer glass collection. Gift certificates are also available.

Appalachian Vintner is located at 745 Biltmore Avenue, Suite 12 in Asheville NC.

Last MinuteAsheville Cabins and Rentals for Christmas

Downtown Asheville Loft - 1 bedroom, 2 baths, sleeps up to 4. Renovated for comfort and convenience with original hardwood floors and exposed brick walls, upscale furnishings, HDTV, Internet, deck overlooking the city. $200-$250 night, $1050 - $1400 week.  See rental photos, details and availability.

Mountain Manor Vacation Rental with views -  4 bedrooms, 4 baths, sleeps up to 10. Mountain views from every window and 15 minutes to downtown Asheville. Hot tub, pool table, ping pong, HDTV, fireplace, Internet, grill. $285 night, $1850 week.   See photos, details and rental availability


Like staying in a tree house - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 4. Pet friendly "Swiss chalet" only 3 minutes to downtown Asheville.  Gas fireplace,  large picture windows, hardwood floors.       Get cabin photos, details and availability


Walk to downtown Asheville restaurants and galleries- 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, sleeps 4. Restored and renovated for comfort 1920s home with deck and covered porch, HDTV, WIFI. Great Asheville getaway for a weekend or  extended stay. $225 - $395 night, $1195 - $1795 week.   See rental photos, details and availability


Learn more about Asheville cabins, attractions and events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Handmade Holiday exhibition at Desert Moon Designs Studios and Gallery

Now through January 3 -  Desert Moon Designs Studios and Gallery celebrates the season of giving handmade with the annual juried Handmade Holiday exhibition. The show and sale includes 25 exceptional artists and artisans. From jewelers to ceramicists, come in to experience local hand-crafted artisanship that is unique and affordable and perfect for last-minute gift giving.

Desert Moon Design Studios and Gallery is located in Asheville's River arts District at 372 Depot St in Asheville NC.

Take a Trolley Tour of Asheville

Asheville Historic Trolley Tours See the best of Asheville NC from aboard a vintage trolley. Enjoy a fully narrated tour covering all major points of interest in Asheville including The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa, Historic Biltmore Village, the downtown shopping and restaurant district, Thomas Wolfe Memorial, the Asheville Art Museum and art gallery district, The Asheville Visitor Center and much more.

Step off the trolley at any of the convenient stops to shop, dine or sightsee, then re-board and continue the tour. 

Vadim Bora Retrospective Catalog available at the Asheville Art Museum Store

The late NC artist Vadim Bora is celebrated in a new Collector's Book (catalog) now available at the Asheville Art Museum's store ( a great place for last minute Christmas shopping). The retrospective catalog was compiled from the recent Warren Wilson College exhibit,  “Vadim Bora - A Visual Legacy of Expressive Freedom: From Initial Spark to Final Form”.

The catalog includes 50 fully illustrated pages plus accompanying text by his wife and curator of the exhibit, Constance Richards (Bora) and co-curator, Professor Dusty Benedict of Warren Wilson College. 
 

Bora  moved to Asheville NC in 1993 and made significant contributions to the local art scene including “Cat Walk” for the Asheville Urban Trail, “On the Mend” (a 10-piece life-sized figurative sculpture) for Mission Hospital’s Reuters Children’s Outpatient Center and “Cornelia and Cedric”,  a bronze sculpture of Cornelia Vanderbilt and the Vanderbilt family dog Cedric at Biltmore’s Antler Hill Village visitor area. 

Re-Discovering Christmas Performed at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts

December 21-22   Re-discovering Christmas at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts A fun evening of professional theatre and down home Christmas music in an intimate theatre setting in downtown Black Mountain NC.

Jim and Carol Shores of Acts of Renewal Theatre Co. bring a series of vignettes that welcome young and old to rediscover the hilarity, the mystery, the wonder of Christmas. The evening concludes with a finale about an irrepressible Jamaican wiseman who retells the Christmas story like you've never heard it before. Music by the Holly Hoppers will bring rousing fun to an already great night.

Asheville NC Holiday Event: Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol

December 19-30    Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol  performed by The North Carolina Stage Company   What happened to Scrouge's business partner Marley? Is he truly past redemption, or does every person deserve a chance to change, to do better?

In this darkly funny and deeply touching holiday play by Tom Mula, see Jacob Marley’s heroic efforts to save Scrooge’s soul – and in the process, save his own.

Learn more about Asheville theatre and entertainment on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Swannanoa Solstice Celebrates Appalachian Holiday Traditions

December 16   Swannanoa Solstice  A tapestry of joyful and thoughtful seasonal reflection beautifully woven from the mountains' Appalachian, Scots-Irish and world influences. Celebrate winter's allure at a special 10th anniversary edition of this beloved holiday tradition.

Bring family and friends to delight in each moment, from sharing a cup of wassail, to enjoying an enormous breadth of acoustic performers gathered on one stage. Headlined by internationally renowned musicians Al Petteway, Amy White, and Robin Bullock playing guitar, mandolin, fiddle, Appalachian dulcimer, piano, harp, and world percussion, these performances are enhanced further by the voices and talents of special guest musicians, storytellers, dancers, and host Doug Orr.

Performed at the Diana Wortham Theatre.

24th Annual Christmas Jam in Downtown Asheville

December 15 - The 24th Annual Christmas Jam at the Emerald Longe and Downtown Music Hall.   Warren Haynes will perform with both his Warren Haynes Band and an additional special set along with the legendary Blind Boys of Alabama.

Sheryl Crow will make her first Christmas Jam appearance performing with her band which includes the Christmas Jam "regulars" Audley Freed, Robert Kearns and Fred Eltringham.  The String Cheese Incident will also perform at the Jam,  as well as Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue who will surely raise the roof with their high energy "supafunkrock."

The Christmas Jam will air live on AXS TV. Warren Haynes Presents: The 24th Annual Christmas Jam at the US Cellular Center in Asheville, NC is officially SOLD OUT. But if you didn't get a ticket early, for the first time in the event's long history, the entire show will be broadcast live on AXS TV, the premier source on television for 100% live music. So tune in Saturday December 15th at 6:30p EST and see the action as it unfolds in The Civic Center.

Cool Crafts Holiday Edition this weekend in Asheville

December 14-16  HandMade in American hosts special Holiday Edition of "Cool Crafts".  Buy handmade for the holidays! Three days and 25 artists will be selling their handmade crafts. Come and find the perfect gift this season. VIP Preview Party: December 14, 5:00-8:00 PM.

Lake Julian Park Festival of Lights

Lake Julian Park Festival of Lights  This is the 12th year for the annual holiday spectacle. The drive through show began on Friday, December 7 and continues nightly from 6 - 9 PM through Sunday, December 23. The park is brightly lit with thousands of colored lights and over 50 animated and stationary light displays. The road circling the park becomes a magical journey through tunnels of dazzling lights.

USDAA Dog Agility Trial this Week in Asheville

December 14-16   USDAA Dog Agility Trial   The Blue Ridge Agility Club of Western North Carolina will host a United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA) agility trial. Spectators are welcomed to attend and admission is free. Over 150 purebred and mixed bred dogs, from throughout the southeast, will compete at various levels of difficulty. Spectators, please leave your dogs comfortably at home. Held at the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center.

NC Holiday Event: The Nutcracker Ballet Performed in Asheville

December 12 - 14  The Nutcracker Ballet - Asheville's classical Ballet Conservatory breathes new life into every child's favorite holiday tradition, emphasizing elegant ballet on a mysterious December's eve.

Share an affordable family holiday experience with the Ballet Conservatory of Asheville performed at the Diana Wortham Theatre

Get a link and more information about the Nutcracker Ballet, Diana Wortham Theatre and other Asheville events and attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Christmas Parade Today in Fletcher

December 8   Fletcher Christmas Parade   The Town of Fletcher Christmas Parade features floats, musical groups and Santa traveling along Highwya. 25 between Old Airport Rd. and Town Hall. The parade begins at 10:30 AM.

Fletcher is an Asheville suburb located on route 25 heading south.

Asheville Art Walk Tonight - Christmas Shopping Made Easy!

December 7   Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk   Enjoy the fine art and craft of the Asheville Downtown Gallery Association and see on of the reasons Asheville has been voted #1 small city in the country by the readers of American Style Magazine 2 years running. 25 downtown venues participate with a complete Downtown Gallery Guide and a map available at any participating downtown gallery, the Chamber of Commerce, or Pack Place.

Learn more about Asheville art and crafts events and galleries HERE.

Asheville's River Arts District Second Saturday this Weekend

December 8  River Arts District Second Saturday   Asheville’s River Arts District Artists open their studios for a day of family friendly fun, educational experiences, live demonstrations and to share their creations. Visit dozens of artists working in all types of media, available for viewing or purchase.

Asheville Holiday Event: Guild Artist Holiday Sale at Asheville's Folk Art Center

Robert Levine, glass artist

December 8   Guild Artist Holiday Sale   The Southern Highland Craft Guild presents the annual Holiday crafts sale at the Folk Art Center from 10 AM - 4 PM, milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Choose from a variety of Holiday gift items - at special prices - including ceramics, jewelry, fiber, paper, glass and wood. Buying from artists supports the local economy and promotes the mission of the Guild which is bringing together the crafts and craftspeople of the Southern Highlands for the benefit of shared resources, education, marketing and conservation.
Learn more about Asheville Holiday and Christmas events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Asheville Holiday Windows Walking Tour

You can enjoy viewing all the participants in the Asheville Holiday Windows Contest throughout this holiday season. Window World of Asheville was the 2012 sponsor. Click here to download a Google locator interactive Map.

All the participants present wonderful Holiday widow displays and the contest winners include:

Judge's Favorite: Sensibilities Day Spa at 59 Haywood Street

Best Interpretation of Theme: Bloomin’ Art at 60 Haywood Street

Best Use of Merchandise: The Dog Door Behavior Center & Doghugger Outfitters at 51 Broadway Street

Honorable Mentions: Mobilia at 43 Haywood Street and Van Dyke Jewelry and Fine Craft at 29 Biltmore Avenue

Learn more about Ahseivlle lodging, attractions and Holiday events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Asheville Chocolate and Arts Festival

Date: December 8  Asheville Chocolate and Arts Festival  A multicultural arts event featuring performers, musicians and dancers from Asheville and beyond. Experience local artisans, baskets and basket weaving demonstrations by Gullah artisans, cultural arts and education by members of the Cherokee Nation, Bellydancing, African dance, Argentine Tango, Hip Hop, and local chocolate tasting by Asheville's finest chocolatiers and dessert-makers.

Performers will also be teaching classes in: Drumming, Bellydance, Tango, West African Dance, and digeridoo throughout the day which are all included in your ticket price. This is a family friendly event with Local children's performance artists Juan Halladay and the Secret B-sides, balloon twisting, face painting, and dance workshops. 25% of proceeds will be donated to Urban Arts Institute and Odyessy School to fund multicultural arts education for Asheville youth.

Find Christmas Crafts at the Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk

December 7   Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk   Enjoy the fine art and craft of the Asheville Downtown Gallery Association and see on  of the reasons Asheville has been voted #1 small city in the country by the readers of American Style Magazine 2 years running.

25 downtown venues participate with a complete  Downtown Gallery Guide and a map available at any participating downtown gallery, the Chamber of Commerce, or Pack Place.

A Christmas Carol" is performed by The Monford Players this month

December 6 - 23   "A Christmas Carol"  performed by the Monford Avenue Players at the newly remodeled Asheville Masonic Temple Theatre. Celebrate Charles Dickens’ 200th birthday with his seasonal tale of human kindness and redemption.

This story is sure to warm your heart and put you in the holiday spirit. Performances Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM; Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 PM. Thursday, Dec. 6 is “Pay What We’re Worth” Night - see the show, THEN pay what you think we’re worth!

Find more Asheville holiday events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

Asheville Christmas Events: Lighting of the Green

December 4 - 22  Lighting of the Green  Celebrate the holidays with the Lighting of the Green, featuring historic homes on the Asheville campus of A-B Tech. Fernihurst, a restored 1870s mansion, and Sunnicrest, a former rental property of George Vanderbilt, will be decorated for the holidays. Fernihurst, an 1870s mansion once the center of social activity for the township of Victoria, will be open to the public from 6 to 8 PM. Dec. 4, 13, 16 and 20 for free tours, light refreshments and entertainment.

Asheville Holiday Event: Dickens Festival in Biltmore Village

November 30 - December 2    Biltmore Village Dickens Festival   Historic Biltmore Village transforms itself into a quaint Victorian village with entertainment for every age and interest. The main stage will be filled continuously with musicians, choral groups, singers, dancers and the Montford Park Players.

This year the Festival will feature more than 300 performers who, after their stage segments, will rove throughout the Village entertaining on the streets and in the shops and restaurants. Friday and Saturday evenings will feature main stage concerts for the entire family. As dusk turns into evening, more than 250,000 white lights outlining the historic Village buildings will combine with the streetlights to enhance the ambiance. Shops stay open evenings until 7 PM with many of the shopkeepers dressed in Victorian-era garb.

In addition, there will be horse-drawn rides through the tree-lined Village streets all day Saturday and Sunday. Chestnuts roasted on an open fire by chestnut roaster Sakshi Gentenbein will be available next to the main stage.

Find Asheville lodging, attractions and more holiday events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

The American Premier of "Starbuck by Whalelight"

November 29-30 at 7:30 PM and December 1 at 1 PM - The Asheville Theatre Festival  Presents The American Premier of "Starbuck by Whalelight", an adaptation of Moby-Dick with global music by The Free Planet Radio, Daniel Barber and Lois Henrickson, Starring Able Allen as Starbuck & Alex Murphy as Ahab. Music by The Free Planet Radio, Daniel Barber, & Lytingale.

Starbuck by Whalelight is presented at the Masonic Temple, 80 Broadway in Asheville NC.

Asheville Christmas Events: Crafts Holiday Sale at the Folk Art Center

December 1    Guild Artist Holiday Sale   The Southern Highland Craft Guild presents the annual Holiday crafts sale at the Folk Art Center from 10 AM - 4 PM, milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Choose from a variety of gift items - at special prices -  including ceramics, jewelry, fiber, paper, glass and wood. 

Buying from artists supports the local economy and promotes the mission of the Guild which is bringing together the crafts and craftspeople of the Southern Highlands for the benefit of shared resources, education, marketing and conservation. An additional date is Dec 8 with different artists participating,

Asheville NC Holiday Events: 30th Annual Bernstein Family Christmas Spectacular

November 28 - December 22  30th Annual Bernstein Family Christmas Spectacular  Starring Tracey Johnston-Crum (recently voted Best Local Actress by in the Mountain Xpress' annual poll) and Darren Marshall, among other local favorites, the beloved and occasionally tasteless sketch comedy Christmas show will once again return to Asheville.

This year, the Bernstein clan is under the able direction of Katie Anne Towner, Associate Artistic Director and Managing Director of The Magnetic Theatre. Last year the Bernsteins sold out nearly every seat of every performance,so advance tickets are recommended for this hilarious, adult sketch comedy Christmas show.

Gingerbread House Competition Opens in Asheville's Historic Grove Park Inn

November 20 - January 2   The National Gingerbread House Competition and Display   Contestants from across the country bring their architectural masterpieces to The Grove Park Inn for display over the holidays. Delight in the imagination shown in these sugar-and-spice creations, strolling through the competition is a sure way to be swept up in the holiday spirit. 


There is no admission charge to view the entries to the National Gingerbread House Competition. In addition to the gingerbread overload, see the beautiful holiday displays throughout the Grove Park Inn and warm by the giant fireplaces in the grand lobby. Pick up a map in the lobby to find the various areas where the entries are displayed.
Get a link and learn more about the Gingerbread House Competition and the grove Park Inn on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Asheville's Historic Grove Arcade becomes a Winter Wonderland this Week

November 20 - January 2  Winter Wonderland at the Grove Arcade  For the seventh year, the Arcade will display entries from the National Gingerbread House Competition and beautiful holiday décor in a Winter Wonderland setting.

Visitors to the building will notice new flocked trees on the spiral staircases, a beautiful tree and lighted antique deer vignette in the West Arcade entry and much more. Shop the Arcade's shops and galleries for the perfect holiday gift.
 
The Grove Arcade  -  Built by E.W. Grove, the visionary and creator of the Grove Park Inn, the Grove Arcade opened in 1929 and thrived until World War II as one of the country's leading public markets. Asheville's historically renovated Grove Arcade has once again returned as a destination featuring the best the region has to offer from fabulous foods to delicious dining and local crafts. The wonderful design and architecture alone are worth a trip to Asheville. The Grove Arcade is located at 1 Page Avenue, downtown Asheville NC.

Christmas at Biltmore

November - January 1:  America's largest home, Biltmore, has once again decked its halls with a look and spirit of Christmas as remarkable as the the "castle" itself. A 35 foot Christmas tree greets you as you enter Biltmore, followed by miles of lights, garlands and every manor of holiday decorations.

During Christmas at Biltmore your standard admission includes:
• Self-guided visit of Biltmore House
• Access to our gardens and Antler Hill Village
• Access to the new exhibition, The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad
• Complimentary wine tasting and guided tour at the Winery

SAVE up to $10 on Biltmore tickets through November 21 when you purchase tickets 7 days in advance.

Additional activities for Christmas at Biltmore include:

Holiday Decorating Sessions
Visit A Gardener's Place below the Conservatory for these daily craft sessions beginning November 1:

• Traditional wreaths at 11 AM and 2 PM
• Tabletop decorating at 1 PM. and 3 PM

Santa at Antler Hill Village
Santa Claus comes by the village on the weekends to meet the kids and hear Christmas wishes. Visit with him on Saturdays and Sundays, November 10–December 23, 1 p.m.–5 p.m., and also on Friday, November 23.


Learn more about Christmas at Biltmore on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

 

Asheville Symphony Orchestra Performs Bizet, Rachmaninoff and Beethoven

November 17 - The Asheville Symphony begins this evening's performance with unforgettable melodies and music of great color and vitality. It's young composer Georges Bizet's joyous score from his L'arlesienne Suite - a Parisian's take on the spirit and stories of southern France.

Van Cliburn medalist Joyce Yang joins the Symphony to play Rachmaninoff's popular and virtuosic work for piano and orchestra - his Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. From the cat-and-mouse chase of Variation 4 to the deeply emotional Variation 18, this is a work that tests the mettle and musical depth of any great pianist.

The concert concludes with Beethoven's brilliant Symphony No. 4. After his watershed ‘Eroica' Symphony, Beethoven had found his own heroic voice. With its mysterious introduction, contemplative adagio, off-kilter scherzo, and frisky finale, the ‘Fourth' marks a special place among Beethoven's enormously creative symphonies.

Asheville's Navitat Canopy Tours ends 2012 Season this month

November is the last month of the 2012 season to experience an adventure on Navitat Canopy Tours located at 242 Poverty Branch Road in Barnardsville NC, 20 minutes north of Asheville.

Navitat is a 100% tree-based adventure zipline canopy tour allowing participants to experience a secluded mountain cove from high in the treetops. The Tour includes:

• 10 ziplines, ranging from 120 to 1100 feet in length
• 2 rappelling experiences, 2 suspended sky bridges, 3 short hikes
• Beautiful long-range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from artfully crafted tree platforms
• Zipping through the forest from 2 feet to over 200 feet in the air
• An approximately 3.5-hour tour on well over one mile of suspended cable
• 8 guests maximum per tour,  accompanied by 2 professionally trained Canopy Guides
• An all-weather adventure, exhilarating rain or shine

Get a link and more details for the Navitat Canopy Tours on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

JingleFest in Downtown Asheville

November 17   Downtown JingleFest   An afternoon of free fun and entertainment from 1 - 4 PM at Roger McGuire Green in Pack Square Park, downtown Asheville. Get an autograph from an Olympic athlete, get a close look at Window World’s custom silver St. Jude Dream Bike, enjoy a special performance by Asheville High School’s Marching Band, and be entertained by dance troupes from the Parade, jugglers, singers and more.

Once Santa makes his way through the Parade, he and Mrs. Claus will be at JingleFest so all the boys and girls can tell Santa what they want for Christmas. There will be a bounce house and other inflatables to keep the young kids busy while they’re waiting, too. Plus hot cider and goodies, and some good old-fashioned caroling.

Paula Pounstone Performs at Diana Wortham Theatre

November 16, 8 PM at Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square in Asheville NC - Paula Poundstone, one of today wittiest and most entertaining comedians, can be see for one night only in Asheville's Diana Wortham Theatre.

Appearing on stage with a stool, a microphone, and a can of Diet Pepsi, Paula Poundstone is famous for her razor-sharp wit and spontaneity. The Boston Globe said, "Poundstone improvises with a crowd like a Jazz musician...swinging in unexpected directions without a plan, without a net." Paula is so quick and unassuming that audience members at her live shows often leave complaining that their cheeks hurt from laughter and debating whether the random people she talked to were "plants".

Poundstone is a regular panelist on NPR's popular "Wait, Wait Don't Tel Me" aired on Saturday mornings in all 50 states.

Taste of Asheville 2012 this Week

November 15 - 2012 Taste of Asheville   Asheville's top culinary talent is showcased at this annual event hosted by Asheville Independent Restaurants (AIR).  Celebrate 40 of Asheville's most talented chefs during one of the largest foodie events of the year. The event will take place in  downtown Asheville at The Venue and kicks off at 7PM.

Tickets to Taste of Asheville includes small plate tastings of 40 local, independent restaurants as well as beer and wine sampling. In addition, AIR’s new Taste of Asheville Passport for the year 2013 will be available for purchase on-site, a coupon booklet representing over $1000 in dining savings at AIR restaurants, for the cost of $50. Passports will be available for sale after the event at www.airasheville.org.

Participating restaurants include:

• Acropolis Pizza 
• Avenue M 
• Blue Water Seafood Co. 
• Boca 
• Bouchon 
• Burgerworx
• Carmels
• Chai Pani 
• City Bakery Café
• Corner Kitchen
• Creperie Bouchon 
• D.I. Hospitality
• Edna's Of Asheville
• Frankie Bones
• French Broad Chocolate Lounge 
• The Green Sage
• Homegrown 
• Jack of Hearts 
• Jack of the Wood 
• Jerusalem Garden Café 
• Karen Donatelli Café
• Laughing Seed
• Lexington Avenue Brewery
• Luella's BBQ
• Mamacitas Baja Kitchen 
• Mela
• Neo Burrito 
• Neo Cantina 
• Pack's Tavern 
• Plant
• Pomodoros
• Sazerac
• Scully's 
• Strada
• Sunny Point Café 
• The Local Joint
• The Glass Onion 
• Tupelo Honey Café 
• Ultimate Ice Cream 
• Vincenzos
• Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian

Asheville Holiday Event: 66th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade

November 17   66th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade   The parade begins at 11 AM with bands, dancing, characters, and of course, our Olympic Silver Medalist Grand Marshals, Lauren Tamayo and Manteo Mitchell. Look for the patriotic float sponsored by Deerfield Retirement Community.

Santa Claus himself will close the parade atop his float sponsored by Express Employment Professionals.

Womansong - Asheville's Women's Community Chorus

November 10-11   Womansong 25th Anniversary Concert   Asheville's oldest and largest women's community chorus, a seventy-five member community chorus and village. The concert will celebrate women coming together from ancient times until today, to sing, gather strength and support, and to change the world through their united efforts.

It will honor role models from "herstory" and connect women's experiences across time and cultures to our own lives, weaving together global, local, and personal aspects of life as women. Held at the Diana Wortham Theatre in downtown Asheville.

The Diana Wortham Theatre is located at 2 South Pack Square in downtwon Asheville NC.

Win Accomodations and More in Asheville's Pinterest Contest

New Pinterest Contest: Spice up Your Holidays.

This year, spice up your holiday season with a little help from Asheville and Pinterest. We've put together a cornucopia of amazing holiday recipes and do-it-yourself Christmas tips from Asheville's holiday taste-makers. Build your own pin board based on these Asheville-inspired tips and you could score a free trip to Asheville!

GRAND PRIZE

• Accommodations for two nights at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Asheville
• A foodie prize pack from Blue Ridge Food Ventures
• Tupelo Honey Cafe Cookbook
• Plus! A few surprises thrown in for good measure

The contest runs from now through December 14. Visit ExploreAsheville.com/spice to learn more and for the official contest rules. May the best pinner win!

Enter Here!

Asheville's Bow-Wowhaus this Saturday

In Asheville,  the influence of art is everywhere - including Fido's home-sweet-home. 

 

The Asheville Section of the American Institute of Architects has created The Asheville Bow-Wowhaus, a project involving about dozen area AIA Asheville Members and other professionals to create one-of-a-kind dog houses. The creations, now on display at Aloft Asheville Downtown hotel, will be auctioned for at a gala party and fundraiser at the Asheville Art Museum on Saturday, November 10. Tickets for the event are $37.

More than ten Asheville architects have participated in the event. “The doghouses are each so different and unique”, says Mary Fierle, AIA Asheville Executive Assistant. “There is a home appropriate for a teacup Chihuahua to a Rhodesian Ridgeback, and every kind of mutt in between!” 

Some of the houses have been designed for indoor use, others are made for use in the yard. Many of the architects collaborated with businesses and craftsmen including carpenters, interior designers, a metal worker, faux finisher, technology expert, a jewelry designer and others. Materials used in the doghouses range from recycled cherry slats, stucco, MDF, Plexiglas, beer cans, and an old surfboard.  

River Arts District Studio Stroll this weekend in Asheville

November 10-11   River Arts District Studio Stroll   The largest and most walkable tour of working artists' studios in the region, the River Arts District Studio Stroll takes place in 19 historic buildings along the French Broad River. There will be artists' demonstrations and hands-on activities throughout the weekend.

The Stroll is easily accessible by car from Downtown, West Asheville and Biltmore Village, and there is plenty of parking. Catch the trolley at Riverview Station or any of the stops listed on the map. An Information Booth is located at the 5-points intersection of Depot St. across from the Clingman Café.

Learn more about Asheville art and crafts and galleries on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Diana Wortham Theatre Presents "Mountain Heart"

November 9 at 8 PM the Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Square in Asheville NC - Mountain Heart, winners  or nominees of  Grammys, IBMAs, CMAs, ACMs, performs for one evening in Asheville NC.  Don't miss one of the most highly awarded and virtuosic acts in progressive bluegrass and American roots music in the world as they return to the Diana Wortham stage this week.

 

Mountain Heart's Asheville performance is made possible by Performance Sponsors Arby's and Dianne & David Worley, and by Mainstage Music Series Sponsors BMW of Asheville and Henry LaBrun, with additional support from Media Sponsors WNC magazine and WNCW 88.7 FM.

Children's Film Festival this week in Asheville

November 2-11   Asheville International Children's Film Festival   The largest children's film festival in the Southeast, this event celebrates the best and brightest in international children's cinema with a 10-day extravaganza of more than 70 films.

The 2012 Festival includes live performances, animation, features, shorts, historical films and fantastic hands-on workshops for the filmmakers of tomorrow.  Get a link to learn more about the Asheville International Children's Film Festival on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

The Smith-McDowell House Museum Celebrates 19th Century Carolina Christmas

November 14 -January 2  19th Century Carolina Christmas  Celebrate Christmas the old-fashioned way at The Smith-McDowell House Museum. The museum's time-line of authentically decorated period rooms showcase the evolution of Christmas celebrations and decorations.

This yearly exhibit, began in 1981, is a tradition for many regional families and tour groups. The mansion and local history museum will again be authentically decorated with fresh trees, garlands, ornaments and toys of the Victorian Period. Seven period rooms will be decked out with gold, silver and glassware from the Museum's permanent collections.

Candlelight Evenings at Biltmore begin this week in Asheville

November 9 - December 31  29th Annual Candlelight Evenings at Biltmore   As daylight fades into dusk, candlelight and firelight accent Biltmore House’s extravagant holiday décor, accented by live entertainment and outside illuminations.
Biltmore House glows with holiday spirit, appearing much as it would have at the turn of the 19th century. Carols from choirs and ensembles fill the halls with festive sounds. Candlelight Christmas Evenings tickets are available by reservation only, and include a self-guided candlelight tour of Biltmore House, next-day visit to the gardens, Antler Hill Village and Biltmore Winery. Advance reservations are required.

Learn more about Biltmore and the Annual Candlelight Evenings on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Ooh La La Curiosity Market today in Asheville

November 3   Ooh La La Curiosity Market   An outdoor market in Pritchard Park featuring works by local painters, leather smiths, jewelry makers, potters ,up-cycled crafters, and other curious delights, all beneath the colored canopies of large market umbrellas. In addition to the artists, the market will also feature live local music with up three musical acts performing each Saturday and will include everything from a solo saxophonist to folk, blues, acoustic, and jazz acts.

Asheville Antiques Fair this Weekend

November 2-4  66th Annual Asheville Antiques Fair   The oldest antique fair in the Southeast is held this year at the at the Exposition Center of The Crowne Plaza Resort. 40 antique dealers from across the country will be participating and this year's Fair will host the "Heirloom Road Show" with expert evaluations of antiques and an expert lecture series and exhibition celebrating the heritage of the Appalachian Mountains.

The Asheville Antiques Fair is a non-profit organization staffed by volunteers with proceeds donated to historical project within Buncombe County.

Find more Asheville NC information on the Asheville Visitor Guide

Asheville Area Named Clean Cities Coalition

The U.S. Department of Energy on Monday, October 29, 2012 named the Asheville area a Clean Cities Coalition for its promotion of alternative fuels, clean cars and better air quality. The greater Asheville area has over 1,700 gas/electric and 1,300 alternative vehicles registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Read the full article reported in the Asheville Citizen Times newspaper.

Happy Halloween

Diana Wortham Theatre Offers New Series, "Intersections"

Intersections is a brand new series in Asheville held at the Forum in the Diana Wortham Theatre offering one more way for the community to interact with each other and the arts.

Intersections for November:
Nov. 1 at 6:00 PM  - Diner's Club: STORM + MOTET
Nov. 2 at 5:00 PM  - Master Class: Juggling with MOTET
Nov. 7 at 6:00 PM  - Craft Club: Indigo Scarves
Nov. 8 at 10:00 AM - Sing Together Series: Lullabies
Nov. 27 at 6:30 PM - Book Club: Sarah's Key

Get complete detail or register HERE

Intersection's Diner Club - Join friends and make new ones at a special pre-show dinner. Just steps away from the theatre, Posana Café is an upscale casual restaurant serving Contemporary American cuisine.

Asheville's Compleat Naturalist Hosts Informal DLIA Event

November 1, 3 PM - 5 PM The Compleat Naturalist located at 2 Brook Street, Historic Biltmore Village in Asheville NC will host an informal event in the store to assist with the sorting of specimens collected in a study of arthropods and other invertebrates in high elevation beech forests. This Tree Specimen Sorting Event is held in conjunction with DLIA (Discover Life in America), the non-profit organization overseeing the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Volunteers along with specialists will help identify and organize arthropods in a lab setting. This is a great opportunity for people with all backgrounds to come see and learn new things about arthropods.  You do not need a science background; just come with sharp eyes and a willingness to learn.

This event is free, but an RSVP is requested, so pleasecall (828) 274-5430, (or email) if you are interested. Imilar events are planned for the future.

Asheville Fun Depot hosts Fall Festival

October 28  Fall Festival at Fun Depot   An annual event with a Pumpkin Carving Contest, games to win prizes and more.

Regular Fun Depot activities include indoor go-carts, bumper cars, 18 hole mini-golf, soft play areas, arcade, batting cages, inflatables and more. The Depot is located at 7 Roberts Road (Exit 51 off I-40) in Asheville NC.

Haunted Homes Tours in Black Mountain

October 26-27   Haunted Historic Homes Walking Tours   In conjunction with the Swannanoa Valley Museum, six property owners on and around the Dougherty Heights Historic District will open their homes and host a ghoulish walking tour to share the intriguing histories (and resident ghost stories) associated with each property. Tours will last approximately 1.5 hours and groups of 10-15 will leave every half hour, 6:00pm, 6:30pm, 7:00pm, 7:30pm, or 8:00pm.

Meet your tour guide at the Swannanoa Valley Museum at 223 West State Street in Black Mountain at least 10 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Refreshments will be provided about halfway through the tour and at the end of the tour. House historians and guides will be in costume. Feel free to wear your costume as well.

Learn more about Black Mountain NC events, attractions, cabin rentals and mountain inns HERE.

Halloween in Asheville: LaZoom Haunted Comedy Tours

October 25 - 31  LaZoom Comedy Tours once again haunts the streets of Asheville for Halloween. Hop on the Purple Bus after dark  - if you dare- and explore Asheville's strange and sordid past with LaZoom's Haunted Tour.

You'll experience Asheville's creepiest (and edgiest) tour guides with spooky and kooky stories.  Laugh and scream along as your adventurous tour guide uncovers mysteries, tells tales of murder, deceit, scandals and ghosts, spilling Asheville's blood right before your very eyes...

Be sure to bring your camera , you're GUARANTEED to see a ghost.  Tours are 60 minutes long and depart from the Thirsty Monk Pub located at  92 Patton Avenue in downtown Asheville.

This is an adult only tour , ALL PASSENGERS MUST BE 17 YEARS OLD! Content is adult oriented and is not for the faint of heart or easily offended.  Passengers 21 and up are allowed to bring unopened containers of beer or wine onto the bus to enjoy during the tour.

Last Minute Asheville Vacation Rental Near Downtown

Cancellation Special -  this Asheville rental is available for the rest of October  for $160 per night.

Home away from home in the Beaver Lake community of Asheville - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 5. Walk to Beaver Lake and only 3 miles to Asheville's downtown activities. covered deck with gas grill, wood burning fireplace, fully equipped, Internet and Pet Friendly.  $1100 week.  See rental photos, details and availability

Find links for Asheville restaurants, attractions and events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Halloween Weekend at the Grove Park Inn

October 26-28    Halloween Weekend at the Grove Park Inn    Enjoy a Halloween weekend of fun and treats with caramel-covered apples and the annual Jack-O-Lantern competition in the Great Hall. Halloween weekend also features live music, pumpkin carving, cooking demonstrations, and a rock n' roll sing-along party at Elaine's Dueling Piano Bar. Don your best costume at the Trick-or-Treat Parade.

The Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa -  The spa  and spa services are renowned, scenic golf course,  sports complex with pool - tennis - racquetball - training. Onsite restaurants, lounge, bars. A large variety of rooms and suites, varying stages of updates with some original Inn antiques.  Get current rates and availability for Halloween Weekend

Find a link for Halloween Weekend at the Grove Park Inn on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

NC Fall Leaf Event: Southcliff Hosts the Annual Black and Blue Run

October 27   Southcliff Black and Blue   11:00 AM start. Runners who have raced at Southcliff before can expect much of the same as past years, with unique courses on private roads and trails, incredibly fall foliage, amazing views, a post-race that includes lunch and beer and the most generous awards in the area. Southcliff is located approximately 5 miles from Downtown Asheville on Highway 74. Online sign-up available.

MoogFest this weekend in Asheville

October 26-27   MoogFest   A two-day festival celebrating the innovative spirit of Bob Moog. Moogfest is the annual event that honors the remarkable vision of Robert Moog and his amazing musical inventions that changed the course of music.

Moogfest is a multi-venue event held in Asheville, NC - the place Bob Moog called home for the last 30 years of his life. Moogfest will host artists and audiences from throughout the world in different venues across Asheville's beautiful, historic downtown.

Annual Antique Engine and Tractor Show Fall Harvest Days in Asheville

October 25-27  Fall Harvest Days 27th Annual Antique Engine and Tractor Show  Held at the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center. This is the largest show in Western NC and features crafters, demonstrations, farm tools, antique engines, antique tractor pulls and swap meet.

The Antique Engine and Tractor Show features antique tractors, hit n’ miss engines of all sizes,  tractor pulls and lots of vendors selling parts. Three full days of activities include crafters, sawmill and hit n’ miss engines. More than 250 vendors/exhibitors with tools, antiques, collectibles, toys and odd stuff.  There will be a Tractor Parade daily, weather permitting at 3:00 PM.

The event will be held rain or shine, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM with Admission of $8/day, Children under 12 free with paid adult.

Ooh La La Curiosity Market today in downtown Asheville

October 20    Ooh La La Curiosity Market   An outdoor market in Pritchard Park  featuring works by local painters, leather smiths, jewelry makers, potters ,up-cycled crafters, and other curious delights, all beneath the colored canopies of large market umbrellas.

In addition to the artists, the market also features live local music with up three musical acts performing each Saturday and will include everything from a solo saxophonist to folk, blues, acoustic, and jazz acts.

North Carolina Chrysanthemum Society Annual Show

October 20 - 21   North Carolina Chrysanthemum Society Annual Show   A popular annual judged show presents hundreds of chrysanthemum blooming in vibrant and varied colors. The exhibits will be judged by Accredited National Chrysanthemum judges and strict NCS standards highlight the exceptional variety in size, shape and color of these popular fall flowers.

The Chrysanthemum Society Show is held at the North Carolina Arboretum, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way in Asheville NC. Get a link for the Show and other Asheville events and attraction for the fall leaf season on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.