Handmade Holiday Exhibit at Desert Moon Designs

December 3 - January 7   Handmade Holiday Exhibit at Desert Moon Designs   Celebrate a season of giving handmade. From jewelers to ceramicists, clothing to handmade soaps, you will experience local hand-crafted artisan works that are unique and affordable. With some amazing one-of-a-kind gifts, Desert Moon Designs Studios is a great place for holiday shopping and connecting with our local community. The gallery supports non-profits all year with each sale.

Get a link for Handmade Holiday At Desert Moon Designs and other Christmas Craft Shows and events on the NC Events Calendar.

Christmas on the Mountain in Asheville

December 21   Christmas on the Mountain at The Thomas Wolfe Memorial   Experience the wonder of Appalachian storytelling with balladeer and folklorist Shelia Kay Adams. Participants will be filled with the holiday spirit after listening to her humorous and sentimental stories of ‘Old Christmas' in Madison County. Sheila K. will also play her banjo and sing mountain tunes. Space is limited so call to reserve tickets. ($10.00)

The Thomas Wolf Memorial Site is located at 52 North Market Street in downtown Asheville NC.

Asheville Jingle Bell Trolley Train Rides

December 21   Jingle Bell Trolley Train Ride   Santa and Mrs. Clause will be there to meet the children and hot chocolate and cookies will be served for everyone. Train rides will start on the hour, from 4 PM. to 8 PM. Tickets are $10 for this special Christmas train ride. Kids 3 and under get free admission.

Purchase tickets on the day of the event. Reservations recommended as seating is limited. Call 828-808-4877 or 828-808-4630 for more information. Craggy Mountain Line, 111 North Woodfin Avenue in Asheville NC.

Asheville Community Theatre Presents The SantaLand Diaries

December 19 – 21 The SantaLand Diaries at the Asheville Community Theatre   When an out-of-work slacker takes a job as an elf in Macy’s Santaland, his hilarious observations of the shoppers and employees are much more naughty than nice. This one-man one-act can only be described one way: crazy funny. Asheville Community Theatre’s favorite holiday tradition is back for its 12th year in a row.

ACT is located at 35 East Walnut Street in downtown Asheville NC.

Classic Christmas Concert by the Asheville Symphony

December 15, 3 PM at the US Cellular Center (Civic Auditorium) in downtown Asheville – The Asheville Symphony performs a Classic Christmas Concert. Handel Selections from the Messiah will be included along with Classical Christmas Favorites.

The Symphony presents seven full orchestra concerts per year in the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in Asheville’s US Cellular Center. Each concert features a performance by a guest artist. The Symphony’s programming reflects a desire to present both the “old favorites” as well as more recent works. In addition to the regular subscription series, the orchestra presents a Classical Christmas.

United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA) Agility Trial this Weekend in Asheville

December 14 - 15   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.

The event is held at he Western North Carolina Agriculture Center, on Fanning Bridge Road in Fletcher NC, a suburb of Asheville.

Grove Park Inn GIngerbread House Display a Favorite Asheville Christmas Event

Adult Grand Prize, Kimberly Thalman

This year's  National Gingerbread House Competition and Display is available for view now through January 2, 2014. Contestants from across the country have brought their architectural masterpieces to The Grove Park Inn and the Grove Arcade for competition and display. 

Adult 2nd place, Glenda Tant

You will delight in the imagination shown in these sugar-and-spice creations, and strolling through the competition is a sure way to be swept up in the holiday spirit. There is no admission charged to view the entries to the National Gingerbread House Competition which is open to non-guests Sunday through Thursday. There is a parking charge of $10.

Teen 1st, Courtland High School German Club

In addition to the gingerbread overload, enjoy the beautiful Christmas decorations displayed throughout the inn and warm yourself 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.

Adult 2rd, Jennifer Elmore & Michael Willaur

Get a link for the Gingerbread House Display and other Christmas events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

Annual Holiday Tours of Home in Asheville's Historic Monford District

December 14   Annual Monford Holiday Tour of Homes   Montford, Asheville's most historic neighborhood, showcases another offering of homes and holiday cheer this year. Explore eclectic architecture that has been lovingly restored or carefully constructed to reflect the neighborhood's historic past. Enjoy homes both old and new, and experience all the Holiday warmth and hospitality that Montford has to offer.

Festive treats and entertainment will be on offer throughout the tour. This is a self-guided tour. With your ticket you will receive a map to all tour locations & information about the individual properties.

Get a link for the Monford Tour of Homes and other Holiday events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

Asheville's River Arts District Studio Tour for CHristmas Crafts Shopping

December 14   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.

Find more information about Asheville arts, cabins and inns and attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

 

Guild Artist Holiday Sale at The Folk Art Center

December 14   Guild Artist Holiday Sale   Don't miss the last chance for the best prices of the year on NC Crafts at The Folk Art Center, Milepost 382 on The Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville. There will be a different group of craftspeople participating this Saturday than last weekend.

Find handcrafted jewelry, pottery, glass, fiber, wood and more by members of the Southern Highlands Craft Guild with 10 - 50% off regular retail prices.

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

The Nutcracker Ballet at Diana Wortham Theatre

December 13-15  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

Make "Holiday Gifts from the Heart" at Diana Wortham Theatre Intersections Craft Group

December 10, 6 PM at The Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 Pack Square in downtown Asheville NC - The Theatre's Intersections Craft Group continues with  "Holiday Gifts from the Heart".  The Group is led by Artist Ruth Ingram with a $30  fee for class+materials.

Make this holiday a Handmade one.  Spend the evening creating your own unique gifts for the special people on your list.

Projects include vibrant pot holders and coffee cozies, sure to brighten up any kitchen. A perfect project for both beginning and experienced sewers. Participants are encouraged to bring their own sewing machines if possible. A few machines will be available for group use.

Registration is required.

Asheville Area Cider is "Hard" to Resist

This post submitted by the Asheville Travel Blog

Did you know that North Carolina produces 80 million bushels of apples each year? (That's more than 15 Olympic-sized swimming pools full!)

Now, three new local companies are using an old recipe to turn some of those apples into Asheville's next hot beverage--hard cider.

Noble Cider was the first on the scene this past summer. They have already increased their production capacity tenfold and can be found on tap at several area restaurants.

Urban Orchard Cider Company followed up with a taproom opening in hip West Asheville this fall, and Black Mountain Ciderworks is close behind, with one variety on tap locally and work on their own taproom moving along nicely.

Dry or sweet, hot or cold, cider is a festive holiday treat. Mix up a pitcher of this fruity sangria for your next gathering, or sample some of Noble Cider's handiwork at their Wassailing Party on December 14. Cheers!

Hard Cider Sangria
Delicious, light holiday punch. Adapted by Joanna Baker of Noble Cider from Food & Wine magazine, October 2012

• 1 cup quartered and thinly sliced unpeeled green, yellow and red apples
• 1 navel orange—quartered and thinly sliced crosswise
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 cup apple juice, chilled
• 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup apple brandy
• One 22-ounce bottle (or a little less than one full 750 ml bottle) hard apple cider, dry variety, chilled
• Ice

In a pitcher or punch bowl, combine fruit with apple juice, lemon juice and brandy. Let sit covered for at least one hour and up to overnight. Just before serving, mix in the hard cider. Serve in tall glasses over ice.

Weaverville Christmas Parade this Weekend

December 7   Weaverville Christmas Parade   At 1 PM the Annual parade begins at the intersection of North Main Street and Dula Springs Road, travels through downtown Weaverville, and ends at the intersection of South Main and Yost Streets. Join us on Main Street along with local bands, floats, marching units, local dignitaries and of course Santa.

Weaverville NC is located just 10 minutes north od Asheville.

Lake Julian Light Festival Begins this Weekend in Asheville

December 6 - 23  Lake Julian hosts its 12th annual holiday light spectacular.  The drive through show is open  nightly from 6 - 9 PM.  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.

Get a link for Lake Julian on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

 

Asheville hosts Dickens Festival in Biltmore Village

December 6-8  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. Enjoy chestnuts roasted on an open fire by chestnut roaster Sakshi Gentenbein will be available next to the main stage.

Find Christmas Crafts and Gifts at this Friday's Asheville Gallery Walk

December 6   Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk    Come explore the fine art and craft of the Asheville Downtown Gallery Association and see one 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.

Get links for more Asheville galleries, crafts and artists on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

 

Thanksgiving Dinner in Asheville Restaurants

Grove Park Inn Restaurants:

•  Grand Ballroom at The Grove Park Inn
• Blue Ridge at The Grove Park Inn 
• Edison Craft Ales + Kitchen at The Grove Park Inn
• Sunset Terrace at The Grove Park Inn 
• Horizens at The Grove Park Inn    

The Blackbird Restaurant   47 Biltmore Ave., Asheville NC

Carmel's Kitchen and Bar   The Grove Arcade, One Page Avenue, Asheville NC

Frankie Bones Restaurant Lounge 2 Gerber Road #101 Asheville NC

Pack's Tavern   20 South Spruce Street, Asheville NC

Red Stag Grill - The Bohemian Hotel   11 Boston Way, Asheville, NC

STORM Rhum Bar & Bistro   125 S Lexington Ave #103a, Asheville NC

Grovewood Cafe    111 Grovewood Rd, Asheville NC  

Roux - Dining in the Hilton Asheville   43 Town Square Blvd, Asheville NC

Luella's Bar-B-Que   501 Merrimon Ave, Asheville NC

Ruth's Chris Steak House    26 All Souls Crescent, Asheville NC

The Bier Garden   46 Haywood Street, Asheville NC  


Biltmore Estate Restaurants:

Deerpark 11 AM-4 PM: Special Thanksgiving buffet, reservations required (and books up fast). $42/person. Phone: 828-225-6260.
Bistro (at Winery) 11 AM-9 PM: Elaborate four-course prix fixe menu, plus limited a la carte. Phone: 828-225-6230. Reservations highly recommended.
Stable Café (by House) 11 AM-4 PM: A la carte menu with blend of most popular lunch menu items, plus a number of holiday offerings. Best option if you tour Biltmore on Thanksgiving and don’t have a reservation.
Cedric’s Tavern (Antler Village) 11 AM-11 PM: Regular lunch and dinner menus, plus three-course menu. Phone: 828-225-1320

For more Asheville Restaurants visit the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Curtis Wright Outfitters now offering Online Shopping

Curtis Wright Outfitters has announced the opening of their new online store. You can now find many of the amazing fly fishing items typically offered in the Asheville and Weaverville shops available for purchase online.

Curtis Wright will continue to add new products, and offer products you might not find anywhere else. For those customers and guests who don't live close by, this can become a convenience that will keep you fishing and comfortable for years to come.

Curtis Wright Outfitters is located at 24 N. Main Street in Weaverville NC and 5 All Souls Crescent in Asheville NC. 

Celebrate Thanksgiving at The Grove Park Inn

November 26 - December 28   Thanksgiving Celebration at the Grove Park Inn   Enjoy elegant and lavish buffets in addition to The Macy's Day parade and football games on the big screen, plus live music throughout the resort.

Other weekend activities include The National Gingerbread House Competition™ display, the traditional tree-lighting ceremony and even a visit from Santa.  Bring your family and friends and enjoy a truly classic holiday weekend at The Omni Grove Park Inn.


The Omni Grove Park Inn includes a renowned spa, 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.  See current BEST rates with lowest rate guarantee or book online now  

Asheville Holiday and Christmas Parade this Weekend

November 23    Asheville Holiday Parade The 67th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade, presented by Bojangles, rolls through downtown Asheville beginning at 11 AM. The parade starts on Biltmore Avenue near South Charlotte Street, makes a left on Patton Avenue, and ends at French Broad Avenue.

This year's theme, "A Star is born" is the largest to date with 101 entries and the "Stars" from The Asheville Ballet, Star 104.3, Mix 96.5, Asheville Lyric Opera, and actors from “The Best Christmas Pageant” at Asheville Community Theatre.

Giant balloons will soar above the parade to add to the day’s excitement, along with eight marching bands, a variety of dance and holiday cheer groups, dueling pianos, a skip rope team,  llamas, horses and unicycles to entertain the crowd. All the fun and exciting participants and entries lead up to the big finish, the arrival of Santa Claus, sponsored by The Grove Arcade.

Winter Wonderland and Gingerbread House Display at The Grove Arcade

November 20 - January 2   Winter Wonderland at The Grove Arcade   Asheville's historic downtown arcade displays all the trimmings of the holiday season along with the annual National Gingerbread House Competition display, co-hosted with The Grove Park Inn.

Santa will be visiting the Arcade on Saturdays from noon – 4 PM, November 30-December 21. Photos with Santa will be available for purchase. In addition to the Arcade’s restaurants regular evening hours, many shops will be open until 8:00 PM on Fridays, starting November 29 until December 21.

 

National Gingerbread House Competition and Display at the 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 Omni Grove Park Inn  for display over the holidays. You will delight in the imagination shown in these sugar-and-spice creations. A stroll 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, enjoy the beautiful holiday displays throughout The Grove Park Inn and warm by the giant fireplaces in the grand lobby. Maps are available in the lobby to find the various areas where the entries are displayed.

The Omni Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa- Renowned spa, 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. Facilities can accommodate business conventions, family reunions or just a quiet romantic getaway.   Book online for the lowest rates and Best Price Guarantee .

 

RiverLink Holds Meeting for Proposed Housing Project

December 10, 6 PM at  RiverLink's Warehouse Studios, 170 Lyman Street, in the heart of Asheville's River Art District - Join RiverLink and developer Jay Fiano for a neighborhood and community meeting to view and review plans for a new proposed housing project on Amboy Road directly across from the Wilma Dykeman RiverWay greenway.

RiverLink is spearheading the economic and environmental rebirth of the French Broad River and its watershed as a destination where everyone is invited to live, work and play. They accomplish their mission by providing permanent public access to the river through conservation and recreation easements, reclaiming contaminated lands for public use, greenway development, adaptive reuse of historic structures, creating public no-fee no-reservation camping sites along the river, adaptive reuse of historic structures, educating 5,000 school children a year and the public-at-large about the importance of the river, and empowering 1,700 volunteers annually.

Jammin’ on the Porche at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial

November 15, 12 - 2:00 PM  at the  Thomas Wolfe Memorial State Historic Site  52 North Market Street in downtown Asheville NC  -  Carol Rifkin, bluegrass and early country musician and host of “This Old Porch” on WNCW Radio, will be Jammin’ at the Memorial. Come join in with your own instrument or voice, or just your enjoyment of listening.

Asheville Community Theatre Presents Hobson's Choice

November 15-17 at Asheville Community Theatre, 35 East Walnut Street in downtown Asheville NC - Hobson's Choice. This ACT performance is a lighthearted comedy set in Victorian England with a surprisely playful feminist message. A domineering father puts his three daughters to work in his shoe shop while he gallivants around town.   He dismisses his oldest daughter as an old maid without any future but she turns the tables on him to give him a real run for his money.

Written by Harold Brighouse and directed by Arnold Sgan the play is performed as a part of The Autumn Players' Readers Theatre Showcase Series. Note: Friday and Saturday performances are held in 35below at Asheville Community Theatre; Sunday performance is at the Reuter Center on UNCA’s campus.

Asheville Community Theatre since 1946 (ACT) has offered Western North Carolina superb productions of comedies, dramas, and musicals. 828-254-1320. Please visit the site for this season's schedule. Get a link for ACT and other Asheville entertainment on the Asheville NC Visitors Guide.

Glass Blowing Demonstration this Weekend

Novmeber 15, 11 AM - 4 PM enjoy a Glass Blowing demonstration by Jason Probstein at the Grove Acrade in downtown Asheville. Mountain Made, the Arcarde's resident WNC Gallery, presents this craft demonstration as part of a series by local artisans.

Mountain Made celebrates the artisans and entrepreneurs of Western North Carolina by creating a viable market for regionally produced fine art and fine crafts. Featuring the work of over 80 artisans including beautiful pottery, hand painted silks, jewelry, furniture, original oils-pastels-watercolors, stained glass, textile art, blown and fused glass, iron work, gourds, hand made books.

Mountain Made is located located inside the historic Grove Arcade Public Market in downtown Asheville at 1 Page Avenue, Suite 123. Store hours are Monday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, and Sunday 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Get a link for Mountain Made, the Grove Arcade and other downtown Asheville shops and galleries on the Asheville NC Guide.

Christmas at Biltmore - a Spectacular Holiday Event

November 2 - January 12    Christmas at Biltmore, the celebration that began on Christmas Eve in 1895 when George Vanderbilt introduced his family and friends to the newly completed Biltmore home, continues today.

This wonderful celebration allows all visitors to enjoy America's largest home decorated with dozens of Christmas trees, hundreds of wreaths, bows, and poinsettias, miles of evergreen garland, and thousands of ornaments.Click below for details, photos and Biltmore tickets:

Poinsettias on Display this Weekend at Van Wingerden International

November 9  Van Wingerden International Open House   10:00AM-3:00PM you'll find acres of poinsettias in full bloom with employees on hand to share how the plants are grown using environmental friendly technology as well as answer your questions.

The greenhouses are located on Highway 191 (Haywood Road) in Mills river NC (between Asheville and Hendersonville). See the ocean of Christmas Poinsettias and other flowering plants before they are shipped to retail stores for the holidays. There will also be live music, educational displays, and refreshments.

Semi-Annual Studio Stroll this Weekend in Asheville's River Arts District

November 9 - 10   River Arts District Studio Stroll  The first, 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 are now more than 160 Artists and crafters in the River Arts District.

There will be artists' demonstrations and hands-on activities throughout the weekend. An Information Booth will be located at the 5-points intersection of Depot Street across from the Clingman Café.

Bring your Christmas list and do your holiday shopping early!

Biltmore Candlelight Christmas Evenings Begin this Weekend in Asheville

 November 9 - January 4, 2014    Candlelight Christmas Evenings at Biltmore   Explore Biltmore House during holiday evenings when candles and fireplaces fill the grand home with a warm glow, accenting delicate ornaments and priceless treasures with metallic shine and sparkle, and music warms the heart.

Your evening admission includes:  a Reserved evening visit of Biltmore House, Daytime access to Biltmore Gardens and Antler Hill Village and Winery on the same day or next day as your evening visit, Free parking.

 

Asheville Cinema Festival Now in its 3rd Year

November 7 - 10   Asheville Cinema Festival   The 3rd annual festival with 40 films including a mix of feature-length movies and shorts. Downtown Asheville viewing venues are the Asheville Community Theatre and the Masonic Temple theater. Opening and closing night events are at the Biltmore Grande cinema at Biltmore Park in south Asheville.

The Asheville Cinema Festival (ACF) was founded by Tom and Sandi Anton in 2011.The founders of ACF first established the Asheville Cinema Society (ACS) in 2010 with the goal of bringing beautifully crafted independent films to the area, films that otherwise may not have been shown. As a third year festival, it is thrilled to present films that are currently receiving awards at some of the top film festivals around the country. ACF 2011 screened The Artist three months before it hit the theaters. The Artist went on to win a Best Picture Academy Award. Last year, ACF 2012 opened the festival with “Silver Linings Playbook” that went on to garner a Best Actress Academy Award for Jennifer Lawrence.

Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk

November 1     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.

Get additional links for Asheville Art Galleries and craft shops on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

Monford Farmers' Market at the Asheville Visitor Center

October 30, 2 - 6  PM   Monford Farmers' Market will be open at the Asheville Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, 36 Monford Avenue in downtown Asheville NC. The Montford Farmers Market is a fantastic mid-week market in a convenient downtown location.  This is a producer-only market which  provides a variety of local, hand crafted products.  The Market offers sustainably grown fruits and vegetables, baked goods, wood-fired breads, an amazing selection of meats, goat cheese, handmade soaps and more.

Funny Business at the Millroom features Mike Lawence and Asheville Brews

November 1     Funny Business at the Millroom: Mike Lawence    Michael Lawrence just appeared on Comedy Central's At Midnight, as well as 2 other appearances on Comedy Central and Conan. This will be a high-quality show and a fun night out. It includes the great beer from Asheville Brewing company and professional stand-up comedy. Come out, laugh, enjoy yourself and feel good.

The The Millroom is located at 66 Asheland Avenue
in downtown Asheville NC

Annual Halloween Carnival at the Fletcher Community Park

October 26   Halloween Carnival   held at Fletcher Community Park.  The Costume Contest with age groups will be as follows: 4 and under, 5-7 and 8-11. Awards will be given in three categories, Best Traditional Costume, Most Creative Costume and Best Homemade Costume. The Costume Contest will begin promptly at 4 PM, and if you/re interested in participating sign up at the registration tent no later than 3:45 PM.

Other activities include Halloween Carnival Games such as Pumpkin Putt-Putt, Halloween Hoops and the Dizzy Bat Race. This year’s event will feature 2 inflatables, a Bounce House for the littlest pumpkins and an inflatable obstacle course for the older monsters.

Get additional links for Asheville weekend events on the Asheville NC Guide.

Mountain Oasis Electronic Music Summit Festival this Weekend in Asheville

October 25-27   Mountain Oasis Electronic Music Summit   A 3-day music festival staged in the heart of downtown Asheville NC, celebrating the creative spirit of musical exploration, along with the innovative spark that fuels all of the arts. Woven around the twin threads of contemporary electronic music and the creative use of technology – old meets new – the festival features world-class musical performances by many of the finest artists in contemporary music.

There will also be talks, seminars, and panels by artists and others; interactive experiences for audiences; art installations and exhibitions and more. Held at the Asheville Civic Center (Cellular Center).

Get links for Asheville rentals, attraction and visitor information on the Asheville NC Guide. 

Fall Antique Engine and Tractor Show in Asheville

October 24-26   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 event will be held rain or shine, 8:00AM-5:00PM.  Admission is $8 per day and Children under 12 are free with paid adult.

Enjoy three full days of activities and more than 250 vendors and exhibitors with tools, antiques, collectibles, toys and odd stuff.  See the Tractor Parade daily, weather permitting, at 3:00 PM. 

Get links for complete visitor information on the Asheville NC Guide.

 

Blue Ridge Parkway and the Folk Art Center Re-Open

The government shut-down has ended and all the facilities along the Blue Ridge Parkway are open, including the popular Folk Art Center at milepost 382 in Asheville.

The Folk Art Center   Home base for the Southern Highland Craft Guild, the Center is the hub of traditional and contemporary mountain art and crafts, with changing exhibits in both the focus gallery and the main gallery and the permanent exhibit all styles are displayed. Demonstrations and educational opportunities are scheduled regularly and there are special events throughout the year. The members shop is visited by thousands of tourists and locals annually.

Get links for Asheville NC visitor information HERE.

Asheville Ooh La La Holiday Bazaar for your early Holiday Shopping

October 19  -  Ooh La La Holiday Bazaar    The Summer's Curiosity Markets are continuing with into fall with a great selection of local art and crafts for holiday gift-giving and celebration. Held in downtown Asheville's Pritchard Park from 10 AM to 4 PM.

The Holiday Bazaar will feature works by local painters, fabric artists, jewelry makers, potters , up-cycled crafters, and other curious delights, all beneath the colored canopies of large market umbrellas. The market will also feature live local music with three musical acts performing each Saturday and will include everything from a solo saxophonist to folk, blues, acoustic, and jazz acts.

Get a link for the Holiday Bazaar and other Asheville events and festivals on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

The Fall Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands

October 17 - 20, 2013; Thurs - Sat: 10 AM - 6 PM; Sun: 10 AM - 5PM
U.S. Cellular Center, (the Civic Center) inDowntown Asheville
Admission: $8; children under 12 free

Setting the standard for fine craft shows since 1948, the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands takes the stage at the U.S. Cellular Center October 17 - 20.

Over 200 mountain artists who have been juried into the Southern Highland Craft Guild will fill the center selling their works of clay, glass, leather, metal, fiber, mixed media, natural materials, paper, wood, and jewelry. Styles range from contemporary to traditional.

The Fair also features craft demonstrations and, beginning on Friday, local musicians share their love of old time and bluegrass music on the arena stage.

Visit the website to view the list of juried artists by media, craft demonstrations, and the entertainment schedule.

Get a link for the Craft Fair and other local Fall events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Asheville Fall Leaf Color Report

Now is the time to head for the hills! Asheville is know to have one of the longest color seasons anywhere in the country. The variety of foliage as well as the medium elevation contribute to the phenomena.

Color is beginning throughout the area and should last for the next 2 to 3 weeks. The Blue Ridge Parkway has several accesses from the Asheville area and is one of the best ways to enjoy the views of color creeping down the mountains. The parkway is open for driving and hiking, but visitor centers and facilities are closed thanks to the government shut-down. So plan ahead for bathroom breaks and food.

Get the latest leaf color report from the Buncomb County Tourist Develepoment Authority (ExploreAsheville.com)

Find links for complete visitor information including lodging and attractions on the Asheville NC Guide.

Ooh La La Holiday Bazaar in Downtown Asheville

October 12 (19, 26)    Ooh La La Holiday Bazaar   The Summer's Curiosity Markets  are continuing with into fall with a great selection of local art and crafts for holiday gift-giving and celebration. Held in downtown Asheville's Pritchard Park from 10 AM to 4 PM. The Holiday Bazaar will feature works by local painters, fabric artists, jewelry makers, potters , up-cycled crafters, and other curious delights, all beneath the colored canopies of large market umbrellas.

The market will also feature live local music with three musical acts performing each Saturday and will include everything from a solo saxophonist to folk, blues, acoustic, and jazz acts.

37th Annual Hey Day Fall Festival at the WNC Nature Center

October 12   Hey Day Fall Family Festival at the WNC Nature Center   Enjoy the 37th annual Hey Day Festival featuring live music and dance performances, special animal encounters, educational programs, arts and crafts for the kids, and delicious food from local vendors. Hey Day is the Nature Center's biggest event of the year.

Hey Day pumpkin carving

This year's performances include the Mountain Thunder Cloggers, Asheville Clogging Company, Ric Ledford and the Reems Creek Incident, and Rick Hubbard's Kazoobie Kazoo show.

Food vendors are Celebrity's Hot Dogs, Creekside Taphouse, Rita's Italian Ice and Ultimate Ice Cream.

The main stage schedule is as follows:
11:00-12:00 - Asheville Clogging Company
12:15-1:15 - Rick Hubbard's Kazoobie Kazoo Show
1:30-2:15 - Mountain Thunder Cloggers
2:30-3:30 - Ric Ledford and the Reems Creek Incident

Regular Nature Center admission rates apply. Friends members get in FREE. The WNC Nature Center is located at 75 Gashes Creek Road in Asheville NC.

The North Carolina Arboretum Hosts The Carolina Bonsai Expo this Weekend

October 12-13   Carolina Bonsai Expo   The juried work of bonsai enthusiasts from bonsai clubs in a six-state region of the United States is on exhibit. Every year the Expo includes free educational programming, workshops, a bonsai marketplace featuring plants, pots, tools and books for sale, ikebana displays and a live auction of bonsai and bonsai-related items.

The exhibit is held at the NC Arboretum, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way in Asheville NC. 

 

Asheville's River Arts District Second Saturday this Weekend

October 12   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.

Special events for this Weekend include:

375 Depot Studios and Gallery
David Simchock Presentation: "11 Essential Steps to Photographing Fall Foliage": 2:00PM - 2:30PM

CURVE studios & garden
Pattiy Torno
Photopiecings: an intersection of quilt & photographic work

Riverview Station
Facing the Lens Photography 

 

Octoberfest (Oktoberfest) in Asheville this Weekend

October 12   Asheville Oktoberfest   Downtown Asheville's Wall Street will transform into "Little Germany" for the Asheville Downtown Association's 4th Annual Oktoberfest. Internationally-renowned "oompah" band, The Stratton Mountain Boys, returns to the stage with happy yodeling songs, shoe-slapping dances and lively spirited Polka music sure to incite dancing in the street and rousing cheers of "ein Prosit!"

The event will feature beer tastings from local breweries including Highland Brewing, Asheville Brewing Company, Pisgah Brewing, Green Man Brewery, Craggie Brewing and French Broad Brewing Company. Many brewers are featuring seasonal ales for Oktoberfest, and will be on hand to discuss their beers. Oktoberfest Games are back as well with some old favorites like the Stein Races and Keg-rolling contests as well as some new ones.

Find more local events, visitor information and attractions on the Asheville NC Guide.

 

Eat Your Vegetables in Asheville

October 6, 5:30 - 7:30 PM    DOUGH  hosts the first signature event from Farmer and Chef South, a book signing and cooking demo with Author and Washington Post Food and Travel Editor Joe Yonan. Yonan will collaborate with DOUGH Chef/Owner Brian Ross, along with Scott Paquin of Firefly Farm, who will supply local and seasonal produce used in the recipes.

$35 per person includes the cooking demonstration and food samples created using vegan and vegetarian recipes featured in "Eat Your Vegetables". You will also have the chance to "meet and greet" with Chef Yonan following the demo and purchase signed copies of his book. Wine and beer by the bottle and glass will be available for purchase.

Partial proceeds of the event will be gifted to Go Kitchen Ready, a food service training program that assists low-income individuals who face barriers to employment.

DOUGH is located at 372 Merrimon Avenue in Asheville NC. 

American Craft Week Event: Open Art and Craft Studios at Asheville's Grovewood Gallery

October 5   Grovewood Gallery’s resident artists are opening up their studios to the public on Saturday, October 5 and again on Friday, October 11. Grovewood Studios are located on the grounds of Grovewood Gallery in North Asheville, across the street from The Omni Grove Park Inn.

This is a unique opportunity for visitors to interact with professional artists, see artwork at the source, and expose them to the remarkable talent that Asheville has to offer. These studio tours are REE and self-guided. Both Grovewood Gallery and Grovewood Studios are housed in the historic Biltmore Industries complex.

Biltmore Industries originated as a craft school in the early part of the 20th century to better the lives of the economically deprived youth of the Appalachian region. It soon grew and gained worldwide recognition for its hand-loomed fabrics. In its heyday, Biltmore Industries housed 40 working looms in steady operation.

Grovewood Studios were established in 1992, continuing Biltmore Industries’ tradition of supporting local craftspeople. Today, nationally known artisans create jewelry, furniture, pottery, glass and more, in the same workshops where Biltmore Homespun was once created.

Asheville Art in the Park

October 5   Asheville Art in the Park  The finest handcrafted art in the area on display and sale at Pack Square in downtown Asheville NC.

Enjoy the work by some of the finest artists in the region with this art market series, now in its fifth year.

Skilled workers in Glass, Ceramics, Wood, Jewelry, and metal make their shops open to display to the public at each of the October markets

Take a stroll around the Vance Monument and Hoss Haley’s remarkable fountain and experience the textures and forms of a truly unique garden. You will not only be participating in an art market, but you will be part of a cycle of giving with 10% of the proceeds from the event will be donated to a local art non-profit organization.

Asheville's Pride Festival

October 5, 12 - 7 PM -  Pride Festival in Pack Square Park   Blue Ridge Pride presents Pride 365, a festival honoring the local LGBTQ community.  The Festival includes live music, an adult fun zone with silent disco and mechanical bull rides, a youth pride area with talent show, teen lounge, slam poetry contest, and much more. 

Asheville hosts American Craft Week

October 4-13   American Craft Week   A celebration of the wonders of American craft and its contribution to the culture and economy of the country. Dozens of participants in Western North Carolina host special events from open studios to major gallery exhibits.

This year's Keynote Speaker is Christopher Benfey - Survival 101: Keeping Education Alive at Black Mountain College. Saturday, October 12, 5:30pm-6:30pm. 6:30-7:45 reception.. Get a complete list of participants and events on the website.

Find links for more Asheville events and visitor information on the Asheville NC Guide. 

 

Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk

 October 4   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.

Get links for local lodging, attractions and visitor information on the Asheville NC Guide. 

 

NC Arboretum in Asheville Hosts Carolina Craft Day

September 28, 11 AM to 4 PM   Carolina Craft Day at the NC Arboretum   A day to celebrate Southern Appalachian traditions as they come alive at The North Carolina Arboretum. The event, now in its seventh year features craft demonstrations,  juried art and craft vendors and plant sales at the Arboretum's Education Center. 

Admission to Carolina Craft Day is free for members or with the parking fee of $8 per personal vehicle.

This year's participating craft vendors include:
BearWallow Wild - Native Plant Species
CC Allen Pottery  - Crystal Coates Allen
Celtic Soul Craft: Felting Art - Jude Lally
Ceramic Artist - Rose Tripoli Mueller
ChaloSulky and Bamboo Farming USA - Daphne Lewis
Clay Alchemy - Anita Walling
Dreamwind Flutes - Lee Entrekin
Funke Originals - Carol Funke
Gardens By Sylvia & Hypertufa Containers - Sylvia Elwyn
Green Grass Flutes - Geri Littlejohn
Mountain Brushworks - Patti H. Best
Nate Barton Works - Nate Barton
Plaid Sheep Yarn Shop - Johnetta Heil
Red Bandana Jewelry - Meghan Roach
Richard Hall Woodcrafts - Richard Hall
Saralola Studio - Sara Day Hatton and Louise Turner
Shelley’s Family Jewels - Shelley Johnston
Stonefly Woodcrafts - Jonathan Marchal
The Twig Diva - Francine Menor
Yoyo Moore - Yolanda Moore

Diavolo Dance Theater Returns to Asheville - Get your Tickets NOW!

October 8-9, 8 PM at the Diana Wortham Theatre  Diavolo Dance Theater  returns by popular demand.  With a wizardry all its own, internationally renowned modern acrobatic dance company Diavolo Dance Theater incorporates thrilling stunts with incredible interactive props in its one-of-a-kind performances. Gasp out loud at the performers' sense of daring in this eye-popping, jaw-dropping presentation.

This renowned company includes dancers, gymnasts and actors who redefine dance with their magnificent sets, daring feats and dramatic movement which make their audiences gasp aloud. Students will enjoy a "meet the dancers" session, a discussion of trust and teamwork, and a Question and Answer period. There is also an opportunity for some students to come on stage and work with the dancers.

Individual Tickets: $8;  Groups of 11 or more: $7 (1 free teacher ticket per every 10 students)

Visit the Asheville City Market this Weekend in Two Locations

September 21   Asheville City Market   Find the the freshest, best-tasting food around plus local artisan products in two locations for your convenience: downtown and South Asheville. Debit and credit cards are accepted. Also enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations and food tastings from local chefs, Kids Corner Market activities, and more.

Eliada's Annual Corn Maze Now Open for the Season in Asheville

September 6 - October 27 -   Eliada's Annual Corn Maze   The maze will open September 6th and remain open each Friday, Saturday and Sunday through October 27th. The maze will open from 4-8 on Fridays, 10-8 on Saturdays, and 11-7 on Sundays.

Eliada’s annual corn maze is a 12 acre maze with 2 unique trails cut out of a field of corn. Accompanying maps with check points help guide you through 4 miles of maze trails. Also cut into the corn field are two Storybook Trails for children. These trails take you on a fun adventure as you read the stories of Spookley the Square Pumpkin and Ciderella and the Little Glass Sipper! Spookley and Ciderella merchandise are also for sale for children and families to continue to enjoy the stories and characters at home.

This year, Eliada is partnering with the Asheville Grown Business Alliance to create a “Love Asheville Give Local” theme in the maze.  A giant heart, with this familiar slogan creates the maze trails and celebrates Eliada as a local charity in the region.  The Asheville Grown Business Alliance’s mission is to support independently owned businesses in the community.  “Local Independent Businesses cycle 3 times more money back in to the local economy and give greater support to a community’s non-profit and civic needs” (http://ashevillegrown.com/).

In addition to the corn maze, there are attractions like corn cannons with pumpkin men targets, a cow train, hayride, pumpkin patch, giant sandbox filled with corn kernels, haybale maze, spider-web net climb on, and giant slides.

Founded in 1906, Eliada Homes, Inc. is a non-profit agency serving the children and families of Western North Carolina.

Get links for Asheville lodging, visitor information and other local attractions on the Asheville NC Guide.

Final Asheville Downtown After Five this Weekend

September 20   Downtown After Five   Truth & Salvage Co. and The Blue Rags will be closing out the 25th anniversary season of Downtown After 5. Headliners, Truth & Salvage Co. got their start in Asheville as Scrappy Hamilton in 1999, and recorded their 2013 album, "Pick Me Up" at Echo Mountain Studios. The Blue Rags have been a local favorite since the late 1990s and helped to put Asheville on the musical map.

They have since played with a number of notable acts, while occasionally reuniting for a great show. Local brews from Highland Brewing Company, Pisgah Brewing, Asheville Brewing Company and French Broad Brewing Company, plus, regional favorites Sierra Nevada and SweetWater Brewing as well as national brands from Budweiser of Asheville and Empire Distributing will be on tap. Wine and water will also be available for purchase

Get links for more Asheville events and festival on the Asheville NC Guide.

Brewgrass Festival in Asheville

September 21   Brewgrass Festival   40 American breweries gather to showcase more than 120 different beers. Live entertainment includes a great lineup of national and regional bluegrass musicians that, in the past, has included such notables as Cadillac Sky, Carolina Chocolate Drops, The Infamous String Dusters, Dry Branch Fire Squad, J.D. Crowe, The Osborne Brothers, Norman Blake, Tony Trischka, Jim Lauderdale, Valerie Smith, Tony Furtado, Yonder Mountain String Band, and Sons Of Ralph. The event also features a variety of area food vendors and plenty of water.

Diana Wortham Theatre Presents "Jazz in the Forum with Steinway Artist Michael Jefry Stevens"

September 14, 7:30 PM -at the Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square in downtown Asheville.  Jazz in the Forum with Steinway Artist Michael Jefry Stevens.   Over the past 40 years Pianist/Composer Michael Jefry Stevens has been associated with some of the most important figures in modern jazz including Dave Douglas, Mark Feldman and his long time bassist and collaborator Joe Fonda.

Mr. Stevens has been in the forefront of the NYC and international improvised music scene. He has released over 75 cds of his original music and composed over 400 works for various ensembles, including big band, string quartet, music for voice, music for solo instruments and various small group compositions.

Tickets: Adults $20 in advance or $25 day of show, Students & Children 12 & Under $15, Package for entire 3 concert series $51.

Montford Market Today at the Visitors Center

September 11 - Montford Farmers Market is a fantastic mid-week market in a convenient downtown location.  We are a producer-only market that provides an array of local, hand crafted products.  MFM offers sustainably grown fruits and vegetables, baked goods, wood-fired breads, an amazing selection of meats, goat cheese, handmade soaps and more. 2 PM - 6 PM.

The Asheville Visitors Center is located at 36 Montford Avenue in downtown Asheville NC

Ooh La La Curiosity Market in Asheville

September 14   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.

5th Annual Garden Stroll this Weekend in Asheville

September 14   5th Annual West Asheville Garden Stroll   This event showcases 15 gardens with this year's Stroll theme, "Garden to Table". Gardens on view will display a variety of gardening styles producing vegetables, fruits, eggs, honey, and flowers for the table. 11 AM to 4 PM, beginning at Hall Fletcher Elementary School , 60 Ridgelawn Avenue, at 10:30 with a short presentation by longtime residents about the role of gardening in the community's history.

Get links for more Asheville events this weekend on the Asheville NC Guide. 
 

RiverMusic Concert Series features The Alan Evens Trio

September 13   RiverMusic Concert Series    The Alan Evans Trio, Bubonik Funk and more. This is a Series of five Friday nights of live concerts by the French Broad River in the River Arts District of Asheville, NC. RiverLink has teamed up with Heira Productions to assemble a top-notch mix of quality national acts and local favorites.

There will be beer, a variety of good eats provided by your favorite Asheville food trucks and the waters of the beautiful French Broad flowing right by the stage. Best of all, these events are FREE to the public.

Get links for more Asheville news, visitor information and attractions on the Asheville NC Guide. 

 

The North Carolina Mountain State Fair begins this weekend in Asheville

September 6 to 15 The  North Carolina Mountain State Fair,  held at the WNC Agricultural Center,  is the third largest fair in North Carolina and celebrates the heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains, including agriculture, music, crafts, art, food, entertainment, display of livestock, competitions, and midway amusement rides.

This year's Music Line Up includes: Lyric, The Vinyl Brothers Big Band, Nikki Talley, City Limits, Kontained, Carolina Rex, Emily Bodley, Free Flight, Greywolf, Joe Lasher Jr., 96.5 House Band, Leigh Glass, Sharkadelics, Contagious, Ryan “RnB” Barber, Kayla McKinney, Michelle Leigh, Jody Medford, plus many more.

The Fair Schedule offers special promotions and discount days:
 Friday, September 6th
FREE Gate Admission for students until 6pm for Grades K-12
Friday Night Frenzy: 9:00 pm till 1:00 am - One price admission includes unlimited rides $20.00

Monday, September 9th
Unlimited Rides all day for $20

Tuesday, September 10th
Kids 12 and under - Unlimited Rides all day for $20

Wednesday, September 11th
Ingles Day - FREE Gate Admission with five cans of Laura Lynn brand foods from Ingles supermarket.

Thursday, September 12th
Unlimited Rides all day for $20

Friday, September 13th
FREE Gate Admission for seniors 65 & older
Friday Night Frenzy: 9:00 pm till 1:00 am - One price admission includes unlimited rides $20.00

Regular ticket prices:
$8.00 Adult (Advance Discount Tickets $6.00)
$4.00 Children 6 - 12 years of age. (Advance Discount Tickets $2.00)
$4.00 Senior 65 years and older. (Advance Discount Tickets $2.00)
Children 5 years and under FREE
Groups (30+ people) Advance discount price $5.00
“Family Fun Pack” - $35. The Family Fun Pack includes 5 Gate Admission tickets, 4 Ride tickets, plus vendor coupons.
Purchase advance discount tickets at Ingles, the WNC Ag Center and the WNC Farmers Market.

The WNC Agricultural Center is located at 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd. in Fletcher, NC (a suburb of Ashevile)

The Grove Park Inn Hosts the Annual Labor Day Beach Music Weekend

August 30 - September 2   Labor Day Beach Music Weekend   at The Grove Park Inn A annual festive Labor Day party with live beach music, a coastal seafood buffet, dancing and a variety of family activities all celebrating the last days of summer. Events include shag dance lessons, pool games, crafts, a grilling demonstration from one of the Resort's talented chefs and incredible live music throughout Inn.


For Last Minute Reservations at the Grove Park Inn CLICK HERE 

The Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa - A reknowned spa, scenic golf course, sports complex with pool, tennis, racquetball, training. Enjoy onsite restaurants, lounge, bars. Accommodations include a large variety of rooms and suiteswith varying stages of updates,  some with original Inn antiques.   Get photos and details for the Grove Park Inn

Get complete local visitor information on the Asheville NC Guide.