Asheville Holiday Parade features Caleb Johnson

November 22, 2014   Asheville Holiday Parade   The 68th 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. 

Caleb Johnson, winner of 2014 American Idol and Asheville native will be grand marshal, in a float sponsored by Mission Health. Bojangles will have food and beverages available for sale along the parade route. 

Find more Asheville Christmas events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

 

Taste of Asheville One of the Most Popular Annual Events

Date: November 20, 2014   Taste of Asheville  An evening of food, wine and beer tasting with 40+ AIR (Asheville Independent Restaurants) restaurants, wine sponsors and local brewers. This sold-out event is a fundraiser for AIR and it's programs, including the "Chef's of Tomorrow" Scholarship at AB Tech and GO! Kitchen Ready.

Lunchtime Art Break at the Asheville Art Museum

November 14,  12:00 - 1:00 PM at the Asheville Art Museum, 2 South Pack Square in downtown Asheville NC.  X, Y + Z: Dimensions in Sculpture   This event is FREE with membership or Museum admission.   Luiza de Camargo, Curatorial Assistant.

The Museum presents Lunchtime Art Breaks, a series of gallery talks and presentations designed to inform and engage you in dialogue with members of our curatorial and education departments, docents and special guests.

Highland Brewing Company Cold Mountain Release Party

November 13, 4 PM - 9 PM at Highland Brewing Company, 12 Old Charlotte Highway, Asheville NC: Cold Mountain Release Party.The Brewery's Tasting Room will offer a limited amount of packaged Cold Mountain beer available for purchase starting at 4 PM. 

Enjoy live music by The Blood Gypsies, River Whyless and Brushfire Stankgrass. Local food trucks and a free shuttle service from the Oakley Shopping Center will be available.

Taste of Asheville

November 20, 2014   Taste of Asheville   An evening of food, wine and beer tasting with 40+ AIR (Asheville Independent Restaurants) restaurants, wine sponsors and local brewers. This sold-out event is a fundraiser for AIR and it's programs, including the "Chef's of Tomorrow" Scholarship at AB Tech and GO! Kitchen Ready.

Find more Asheville events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

 

What to do this Weekend in Asheville: River Arts District Studio Stroll

November 8 - 9, 2014   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 will be artists' demonstrations and hands-on activities throughout the weekend. An Information Booth will be located at the 5-points intersection of Depot St. across from the Clingman Café.

River Arts District  is open year around - meet 150+ artists in their studios, visit craft galleries and shops and stop to re-energize at one of the cafes or restaurants.. Schedules are available online. Twice a year, every second weekend in June and November, Asheville’s River Arts District opens to the public for two days of festivities known as the STUDIO STROLL. 

On SECOND SATURDAYS artists welcome you into their studios to talk with them, see their latest artwork, watch demonstrations, and experience for yourself the magic hidden inside the time-worn factories and warehouses along the French Broad River. Click HERE for a map of the River Arts District and how to get to there.  

 

Christmas at Biltmore begins this week

November 7, 2014 - January 11, 2015   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 to this day. 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 to get online discount tickets:

 

Asheville Art Walk this Weekend

November 7, 2014   Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk    Enjoy 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. 

20+ 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.

Asheville Cinema Festival this Weekend

November 6 - 9, 2014   Asheville Cinema Festival   The 4th 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 Night Film Thursday Screening: “The Imitation Game” - $25 (Price includes the after party located at the Century Room of Pack’s Tavern where you will receive complimentary appetizers and a cash bar and Previews of the slate of films with be shown) Additionally, there will be a stand up performance by Tom DiMenna, one of the filmmakers whose film, “Bologna Warrior” is included in the line-up. 

Closing Night Film: Sunday Screening “The Face of Love” - $10. All other screening tickets are $8, $5 for students. VIP passes available.

Find links for Asheville hotels, vacation rentals and attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.  

Asheville NC Weekend Events: WNC NAture Center Howl-O-Ween

October 25, 2014    Howl-O-Ween at the WNC Nature Center   This family-fun annual event offers spooky arts and crafts, games, and face painting, a hay maze, snacks and hot chocolate, and educational animal encounters throughout the day. All are welcome to come in costume. Regular admission rates apply.

Event Schedule:

11:30 - The Great Slimy Enrichment at the Otter Habitat
12:00 - Meet our Barred Owl at the Turtle Ampitheater
1:30 - Family Feud Game in the Barn
2:30 - The Great Pumpkin Enrichment at the Red Wolf Habitat
3:00 - Family Feud Game in the Barn
4:00 - The Great Pumpkin Enrichment at the Raccoon Habitat
5:00 - Costume Contest at the Petting Area
*There are 6 age categories for the costume contest, and each group will have 3 winners: scariest, cutest and most creative. Parents, you can dress up, too.

Asheville Weekend Events: Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair

October 24 - 26, 2014    Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair    Hosted by the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center, in the McGough Arena, the event includes 100’s of animals, crafters, workshops and demonstrations, See spinning, knitting, weaving, felting and much more!

Join a workshop class to improve your skills or just enjoy browsing and shopping the beautiful and unique apparel and wearable art at SAFF! Fri. and Sat. 9:00AM-6:00PM, Sun. 9:00AM-4:00PM, Admission $3/person, Youth under 13 yrs. old free.

Get complete visitor information on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

 

Fall Harvest Days Antique Engine and Tractor Show in Asheville NC

October 23 - 25, 2014    Fall Harvest Days 27th Annual Antique Engine and Tractor Show    This event is held each year at the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center. This is the largest show in Western NC featuring crafters, demonstrations, farm tools, antique engines, antique tractor pulls & swap meet. The event will be held rain or shine, 8:00AM-5:00PM, Admission $8/day, Children under 12 free with paid adult. 

River Arts District Second Saturday Studio Tours and Events

October 11, 2014    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's River Arts District is a truly remarkable place and a "must see" in Asheville.  The District is open year around for visitors to meet 150+ artists in their studios, browse craft galleries and shops and stop to re-energize at one of the cafes or restaurants or the Brewery.  Schedules are available online. Twice a year, every second weekend in June and November, Asheville’s River Arts District opens to the public for two days of festivities known as the STUDIO STROLL.  On SECOND SATURDAYS artists welcome you into their studios to talk with them, see their latest artwork, watch demonstrations, and experience for yourself the magic hidden inside the time-worn factories and warehouses along the French Broad River. Click HERE for a map of the River Arts District and how to get to there. 

Carolina Bonsai Expo this Weekend in Asheville

October 11 - 12, 2014   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. 

This year's guest artist is David DeGroot. The Expo is held annually at the North Carolina Aboretum, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Wayin Asheville NC. The expo is free for Arboretum Society members or with the standard parking fee ($12 per personal vehicle).

Asheville Art in the Park Features Nationally Known Artists

October 11, 2014   Asheville Art in the Park  The finest handcrafted art in the area is on display and for sale at Pack Square in downtown Asheville. Nationally known artists exhibit at this event and the best part is- they are local. Muddy Knees Design and Production is proud to once again offer local artists the opportunity to connect with the public in Asheville‘s Pack Square Park. 3 consecutive Saturday’s in October.

Get links for Asheville lodging and accommodations  on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

WNC Nature Center Hey Day Fall Family Festival

October 11, 2014   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.

The WNC Nature Center is a living museum of plants and animals native to the Appalachian region. Our purpose is to increase public awareness and understanding of all aspects of the natural environment of Western North Carolina through hands-on and sensory experiences.

Each year welcome 100,000 visitors attend - of which 30,000 are school children expanding their classroom curriculum.  The Nature Center is located at 75 Gashes Creek Road in  Asheville NC

Asheville Downtown Art Walk Tonight

October 3, 2014   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. 20 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.

Homebrew Night Tonight at Hops and Vines Plus Weekend FREE Beer and Wine Tastings

October 2, 4:30 - 7:30 PM at Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC: Homebrewers Night. Homebrewers - bring in a few bottles of your labeled homebrew to share with others. This event is free and held ever 1st Thursday of the month. Don't miss this popular AVL beer event.
October 3,  5 - 7 PM:  Free tasting this Friday. Hobsons Brewery, Shropshire's sustainable brewer and creator of award winning beers. Dedicated to an ethos of using the finest locally sourced ingredients teamed with sustainable technologies has produced a range of award winning cask ale and bottled beers. Come check out their line up of English session beer including:

Manor Ale - Brewed specially to celebrate Severn Valley Railway's Manor Class steam engines. Severn Valley, one of Britain's finest Heritage Railways, chose Hobsons for its integrity and commitment to its roots in the heart of England. With aromas that reflect fresh grain, hops Manor Ale is a crisp refreshing amber bitter with biscuit overtones. 4.2%

Town Crier is a golden ale with a big voice, the elegant straw coloured bitter has a hint of sweetness which is complemented by subtle hop flavors, lending a dry finish. 4.5%

Postman's Knock is a beer offering an intelligent blend of complex ingredients, the rich brown beer with a smooth fine head has a very chocolately character. The combination of subtle flavour notes of vanilla, treacle and roast malt gives an initial rich sweetness leading to a velvety chocolate finish. 4.8%

October 4, 3 - 6 PM:  FREE Sherry Wine Tasting. Sherry is a unique kind of fortified wine made in what's called a "Solera" system. Come learn all about Sherries this Saturday as we taste three estate bottled, small production, family owned wines. The tastings will include:

Cesar Florido Fino:   Flor grows year-round in Chipiona making the Finos here very unique. Even more unique is the fact that this Fino is made from estate-grown palomino from the Balbaína and Miraflores vineyards. On the palate this Fino is light and soft with a pleasing brackish quality that is due to the winery’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.

La Cigarrera Manzanilla:  Aged four years on the lees before being bottled. Vibrant and fresh with aromas of yeasts and salinity. The wine on the palate is rich and substantial with a long finish.  El Maestro Pedro Ximenez:

El Maestro Pedro Ximenez:  This Pedro Ximénez is aged for 15 years in the solera system. A great nose of exotic spices and almost red fruits combine with more classic caramel overtones with great acidity.

10% off all featured bottles on Saturday.

Upcoming Homebrew Classes:  All-grain/advanced class with be held Sunday, October 5th from 11-4pm. This class is intended for those already familiar with extract brewing and want to advance their skills. We cover everything you need to know about all-grain brewing and you keep a six pack of the brew. $50/pp

Next Beginners class we be held Sunday, November 2nd from 12-4pm. We'll be brewing something for winter stout. $45 pp in advance.

About the Hops and Vines Classes...  All classes include a bottling class two weeks following the class date from 11am - noon. You keep a six pack of the beer we brew!  All classes brew on premises and cover everything from equipment to recipe formulation, fermentation, sanitation, bottling and more.  Call 828-252-5275, stop by the shop or e-mail info@hopsandvines.net to sign up, spaces are limited.

Mid-Year Marketing Session in Asheville Tomorrow

October 2, 2014 -  Registration will be held onsite for the Mid-Year Marketing Update regional session in Asheville tomorrow (Thursday). The session will be 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM at the Doubletree Hotel Biltmore Village in Asheville. Make plans to attend this free, interactive sessions. Since historic changes are coming to the N.C. Dept. of Commerce and the Division of Tourism, Film and Sports Development, learn how these changes will impact the state's tourism marketing efforts at the Division's annual Mid-Year Marketing Updates. This year's updates will cover:

• Changes to the Dept. of Commerce and the Division
• Information on first year results from the new VisitNC.com
• The target marketing program slated for Atlanta and Washington, D.C.
• A new social media initiative highlighting the 150th observance of the Carolinas Campaign during the Civil War
• The full range of the state's marketing programs and more
• Updates from N.C. Dept. of Cultural Resources and N.C. Dept. of Environment & Natural Resources

Online registration is still open for the final MYMU meeting scheduled from 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM on Octtober 10 at the Winston-Salem Marriott (at the conclusion of the N.C. Tourism Leadership Conference). The regional forums will feature Executive Director Wit Tuttell and representatives from the state's agency partners, LGA, DCI and Journal Communications. Similar to last year, the meetings will allow for partner input and discussion.

American Craft Week Begins this Weekend in Asheville and other WNC Locations

October 3-12, 2014   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 events kick off with an address by Asheville mayor Esther Manheimer and a reception at 5:30 PM. Get a complete list of participants and events on the website.

Asheville art in the Park is Back

October 4, 2014   Asheville Art in the Park   The finest handcrafted art in the area is on display and for sale at Pack Square in downtown Asheville. Nationally known artists exhibit at this event and the best part is that they are local.

Muddy Knees Design and Production is proud to once again offer local artists the opportunity to connect with the public in Asheville‘s Pack Square Park. This special event is held on 3 consecutive Saturdays in October.

Last 2014 Downtown After Five tonight in Asheville

September 19, 2014   Downtown After Five   Members from Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band, The Asheville Horns, Molli Party, The Hermit Kings, Bayou Diesel, Mary Francis and The Dirty Classics, The Tuesday Night Funk Jam House Band, and many more will be closing out the 26th anniversary season of Downtown After 5. 

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. 

Heritage Weekend at Asheville's Folk Art Center

September 20 - 21, 2014   Heritage Weekend    is a two-day celebration of traditional crafts and music. This 34th annual free festival is sponsored by the Southern Highland Craft Guild and features traditional music, dancing and heritage craft demonstrations. A highlight of the weekend is the 32nd Annual World Gee Haw Whimmy Diddle Competition on Saturday, 2:00-3:00 PM. Joe “Colonel Buncombe” Bly will emcee the competition. 


The Folk Art Center   is 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.  The Folk Art Center is located at milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville NC

Asheville Brewgrass Festival this Weekend

September 20, 2014   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.

This exceptionally popular event also features a variety of area food vendors and plenty of water. 1 - 7 PM at Asheville's Memorial Stadium.

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

RiverMusic Concert Series Finale this Friday

September 12, 2014   RiverMusic Concert Series  Enjoy music by the river and a great bluegrass evening featuring “Fruition” and “The Fireside Collective.” . This is the final concert for the season of 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 for this popular summer event.


The food and beverage offerings are a match for the quality of the music including craft beer from two local breweries, Oskar Blues and Catawba. Oskar Blues will be pouring its Mama's Little Yellow Pils, Dale's Pale Ale and Old Chubb Scotch Ale, while Catawba serves up Farmer Ted's Cream Ale, White Zombie White Ale and Firewater IPA. The Food Trucks will be offering a variety of taste treats and perfect pairings for the brews.

Enjoy some great Middle Eastern food from Gypsy Queen, which suggests pairing their chicken shawarma pita sandwich with a White Zombie. Melt Your Heart recommends downing their Firebird sandwich (smoked turkey, bacon, cheddar, chipotle mayo and tomatoes) with a Firwater IPA. And Pho Ya Belly is whipping up 5-spiced pulled pork sandwiches topped with pickled peaches which they suggest you wash down with anything light and refreshing. Smash Box shows off its Nicaraguan cuisine with "The Box," -- a scrumptious pile of red beans and rice decked out with a chimichurri sauce, plantains, jalapeno crema, cotija cheese, cilantro-lime slaw and your choice of proteins. They say this grand plate is best consumed with an Old Chubb Scotch Ale or Farmer Ted's Cream Ale.  The Lowdown will be serving its pulled pork BBQ Sammie.
 
The gates open at 5 PM and the festivities continue until 10 PM. For your convenience, Trolleys will be running with pick-ups and drop offs at three different parking facilities around Asheville.

 

This Week's Homegrown in Pritchard Park Features Ben Wilson

Date: August 7, 2014   Homegrown in Pritchard Park   Ben Wilson Featured Free performances by local singer/songwriters each Thursday between Memorial Day and Labor Day at Pritchard Park in downtown Asheville. Held from 6 PM - 8 PM and sponsored by 98.1 The River radio station.

Get complete Asheville visitor information on the Asheville NC Guide. 

August 2 - 3, 2014   Annual Village Art and Craft Fair   Held on the grounds of All Souls Cathedral in Biltmore Village this year's Fair, the 41st,  will include 118 exhibitors.  Enjoy high quality art and crafts including ceramics, furniture, glass, jewelry and more. Hours are Saturday 10 AM - 7 PM and Sunday 12 PM - 5 PM.

Find more Asheville events, festivals and entertainment on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide

Hendersonville Annual Antique Show this Weekend

June 21, 2014  23rd Annual Main Street Antique Show   The Antique Show features Over 90 antique dealers offering quality antiques on Main Street in Historic Downtown Hendersonville. The Event will be held rain or shine. 9 AM - 5 PM.

Hendersonville is located approximately 20 minutes south of Asheville off Interstate 26.

Help RiverLink Distribute Anything That Floats Parade Posters

RiverLink is looking for volunteers to help distribute their beautiful new posters -  as far and wide as possible. Ideally, they would like to see one in every shop window, on every bulletin board, and every information kiosk within a 100-mile radius! That's a little grandiose, so let's just aim for as pervasive a local presence as possible.


Anything That Floats is Saturday  August 9

If you are a business owner and would like some of these snazzy posters to hang in your place, let RiverLink know. There are plenty available.  If you can help  out by visiting local businesses to hang a poster, that'd be great too.

Contact RiverLink's Dave Russell at dave@riverlink.org or 252-8474, ext. 11 and let's spread the word.

 

Asheville's Homegrown in the Park Live Music

June 19, 2014   Homegrown in the Park    Free performances by local singer/songwriters each Thursday between Memorial Day and Labor Day at Pritchard Park in downtown Asheville. Held from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM and sponsored by 98.1 The River radio station.

Find more local events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

 

RiverMusic Concert Series Features Americana/Roots night with the UK’s Treetop Flyers” and the “River Whyless

June 13, 2014    RiverMusic Concert Series   Americana/Roots night with the UK’s “Treetop Flyers” and the “River Whyless.” This is a Series of five Friday nights of live concerts by the French Broad River at the RiverLink Sculpture and Performance Plaza in the River Arts District of Asheville. RiverLink has teamed up with Heira Productions to assemble a top-notch mix of quality national acts and local favorites.

Homegrown in the Park

June 12, 2014   Homegrown in the Park   This week featuring Nikki Talley. Free performances by local singer/songwriters each Thursday between Memorial Day and Labor Day at Pritchard Park in downtown Asheville. Held from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM and sponsored by 98.1 The River radio station.

Get links for more Asheville music events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

 

The Asheville City Open Air Market Today

June 7, 2014   The Asheville City Open Air Market    will be open on Saturdays from 8 AM - 1 PM at the Public Works Building, 161 S. Charlotte Street in downtown Asheville NC and on Wednesdays at Town Square Blvd in Biltmore Park Town Square. 

Find the the freshest, best-tasting food around and local artisan products in two locations for your convenience, downtown and South Asheville. EBT, credit, and debit cards are accepted. Additional activities include live music, cooking demonstrations and food tastings from local chefs. 

Downtown Art Walk tonight in Asheville

June 6, 2014    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.

Find complete visitor information on the Asheville NC Guide.

 

 

Asheville Homeboy Caleb Johnson Winns American Idol

May 21 - Asheville NC native Caleb Johnson proves that persistence AND talent counts as he won the 2014 American Idol designation. Johnson's consistent performances were key to moving up through this year's weeks of competition. With a voice and style that combine the best of rock and pop his genuine and caring nature (well, he IS from Asheville) shine through to make him a favorite with young and old.

American Idol took a step up this year with the addition of Harry Connick Jr., one of the best musicians and musical artists this country has ever produced. Not to mention his acting, song-writing, support of family and hometown (New Orleans), humor and - OK - in the looks department it doesn't get much better. But hopefully his influence has brought more emphasis to the previously tedious show to musical skills, artistry and maybe even a little originality. Like Caleb Johnson.

So a big congratulations and "well deserved" to Caleb. And best wishes for a bright future. And for those of you who haven't yet been to Asheville, see what you're missing...among many, many other things?

Asheville Wine and Food Festival "Sweet" Tickets now on Sale

Get your tickets NOW for the Asheville Wine and Food Festival's SWEET 2014. On August 22, you can enjoy an evening of  "Delectables and Delights". Music, Drink, Desserts and Fun at the Historic Grove Arcade in downtown Asheville NC.

SWEET is a decadent evening of desserts, sparkling wines, wine, beer, spirits and shopping...to name a few of your favorite things. Chocolates, cakes, tarts, pastries and more, all enjoyed with a glasse of sparkling wine, beer, or spirits.

Local bakers, chocolatiers, pâtissiers, wine vendors, brewers and distillers will line the corridors of the architectural wonder that is the Grove Arcade. The shops will stay open late, giving you the opportunity to shop for handmade crafts, jewelry, furnishings, and more while you indulge and enjoy the evening's music.

CLICK HERE to buy tickets NOW.

Downtown After Five Concert Series in Asheville

May 16   Downtown After Five   Free live music entertainment in downtown Asheville. Headlining this month is St. Paul And The Broken Bones. The celebration is every third Friday, May through September, with the goal of encouraging locals and visitors to enjoy downtown Asheville and support local businesses and entertainers.

The event is located on North Lexington Avenue (between Hiawassee and the I-240 overpass). Food and beer vendors will be available.

Get complete local visitor information including Asheville rentals, dining and attractions on the Asheville NC Guide.

The Weekend of Wonder in Asheville

May 2-4       The Weekend of Wonder    Magic comes to Asheville and the Asheville Community Theatre. Events include the Grand Opening, magic world Champion, Michael Amma Lecture, John Venus and Eric Stevens in a one-of-a-kind Mystical Matinee, a one-man show from Jeff McBride, an All Star Gala, workshops and more.

See Biltmore in Bloom for Easter Weekend

 Spring has dressed the Biltmore grounds in bright colors ready for the Easter Weekend. The featured flower is the tulip, at peak this week. Their bright, nodding heads blanket Biltmore's gardens in yellows, pinks, reds, oranges, and more. Plan your spring visit today and get the current BEST PRICES on Biltmore tickets.

See everything that's blooming at Biltmore with their  Weekly Bloom Report.  You can also brighten up your computer's desktop by downloading our digital wallpaper, featuring the flower of the week.

Asheville's Easter on the Green FREE for Visitors and Locals

April 19   Easter on the Green    An annual FREE family-friendly event in the heart of downtown Asheville. Traditional activities include age-specific Easter egg hunts, races, giant inflatables, Bounce house, music, entertainment, giveaways and more. Children can meet the Easter Bunny and receive a golden egg filled with a prize. A professional photographer will take a family photo that can be downloaded for free.

Find more Easter events on the NC Events Calendar.

Asheville Wild and Scenic Film Festival

April 15   Asheville Wild and Scenic Film Festival   The Western North Carolina Alliance invites the community to the 2014 Wild & Scenic Film Festival. For nearly a decade, the festival has been touring the country and this year the festival will make its third annual appearance in Western North Carolina featuring a selection of short films that put our world and yourself into the broader environmental and social context and serves to remind us that we’re participants in a global movement for a more wild and scenic world.

Free raffle ticket with entry, door prizes, food and drinks available for purchase, speakers. Raffle prizes include rafting trips, 6 - 9 PM.

Find more Asheville events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.  

 

Diana Wortham Theatre Dinner Deals

Before or after enjoying a performance or event at The Diana Wortham Theatre, make a complete evening of it with DWT's Dinner Deals:

Pack's Tavern: 15% off your meal

Posana Café: 3 courses for $30

STORM Rhum Bar & Bistro: 15% off your meal

Writer's Bistro at the Renaissance Asheville Hotel: 15% off your meal

Learn more about DWT's Dinner Deals HERE

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

The Pedrito Martinez Group Performs at the Diana Wortham Theatre

April 11, 8 PM at The Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Square in downtown Asheville NC : The Pedrito Martinez Group. Don't miss this one-of-a-kind Afro-Cuban ensemble whose shows have ignited a devoted fan base including Eric Clapton, Taj Mahal, Derek Trucks, and Wynton Marsalis. Some tickets remain for this sizzlin' hot band that The New York Times describes as "…complex, blenderized Africa-to-the-New-World funk."

The Pedrito Martinez Group in review: "International shipping — Meet the Latin music revitalizers of New York" -Raleigh's INDY Week

"Since arriving in the United States at the end of the 1990s, the Cuban percussionist Pedrito Martinez has been all over the place, putting rumba and guaguancó into the weave of all kinds of groups. But when his drums, singing and writing are the focus — as is the case in his new band which plays complex, blenderized Africa-to-the-New-World funk — he’s an incomparable performer." -The New York Times

Buy Tickets for The Pedrito Martinez Group HERE.

NC Beer Month Event: Hop’n Blueberry Farm Tours

April 12    Beer Month Event: Hop’n Blueberry Farm Tours   Learn about a variety of hops and how they are grown and managed. Then enjoy a sample of beer made with these varieties from Lookout Brewery, just three miles from the farm.

After the Hops farm tour, tour Lookout Brewery and see how beer is made and enjoy their tasting room in Black Mountain. Tours will be offered every Saturday in April starting at 2 PM at the farm. For tickets, call 828-664-1166.

Easter Egg Hunt at the Fletcher Community Park this Weekend

April 12   Fletcher Easter Egg Hunt   This annual Easter Egg Hunt is held at the Fletcher Community Park for children ages walker to 11. The event is filled with eggs and fun with the Easter Bunny and sponsored by Fletcher Parks & Recreation.

Asheville Open Air Market this Weekend

April 12  The Asheville City Open Air Market will be open at the Public Works Building, 161 S. Charlotte Street in downtown Asheville NC and Town Square Blvd in Biltmore Park Town Square (Wednesdays, 1 PM - 5 PM) . Find the the freshest, best-tasting food around and local artisan products in two locations for your convenience, downtown and South Asheville.EBT, credit, and debit cards are accepted.

Additional activities include live music, cooking demonstrations and food tastings from local chefs. The little ones will enjoy the Growing Minds @ Market (June, July, August), and more. 

UNC Asheville Hosts 30th Annual Economic Crystal Ball Seminar

April 17 at at UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky Auditorium: Economic Crystal Ball Seminar. Noted economists David W. Berson and James F. Smith will make forecasts on the business and financial outlook for the coming year.

The seminar, sponsored by the UNC Asheville Economics Department and Parsec Financial, begins with a 6:15 p.m. reception, followed by the speakers at 7 p.m., and a question-and-answer period at 8 p.m. The seminar takes place at Lipinsky Auditorium on campus and is free and open to the public.

The economic outlook portion of the program will focus on inflation, employment, interest rates, the strength of the dollar and housing market. The financial outlook presentation will explore the implications of Federal Reserve policy for financial markets. Various investments will be addressed, with an emphasis on interest rates and the bond market.  Read more...

This information is provided by Carolina Public Press, a nonprofit online news service, providing Western North Carolina with unbiased, in-depth and investigative reporting as well as educational opportunities to journalists, students and others. Make a Donation HERE.

Highland Brewing Company Community Night

April 3, 4 PM - 8 PM at Highland Brewing Company, 12 Old Charlotte Highway, Asheville, NC: Community Night. The Brewing Company will donate $1.00 of every pint sold to Loving Food Resources.

LFR started in Asheville by three individuals in 1991 to address the food insecurity issues faced by people living with HIV/AIDS. In 1996, they expanded their services to any person receiving home Hospice care regardless of diagnosis. LFR is the only "self select" food pantry addressing the issue of food security or hunger in the HIV/AIDS or home Hospice communities in Western North Carolina. LFR continues to do this work as a 100% volunteer non-profit organization.

Highland Brewing Company opened in December 1994, using almost entirely of retrofitted dairy equipment. The original brewery in downtown Asheville could produce up to 6,500 barrels of beer per year. Now located at a new location on the outskirts of Asheville, they have capacity to brew over 50,000 barrels annually with room to grow. Until 1998,  beer was available only in kegs and hand-filled 22-oz. bottles.  That year a four-head bottling machine was added, which enabled packaging in 12-oz. bottles. In 2002, a used Krones bottling line was installed, capable of filling 7,200 12-oz. bottles per hour. Today beer is brewed twice daily, four days per week, and demand continues to exceed supply.

West Asheville Pint Night

April 2, 7 PM - 10 PM at Westville Pub, 777 Haywood Road, Asheville, NC: West Asheville Pint Night at the Pub. Join the Hi-Wire guys at Westville Pub as they feature, on tap and in bottles, their Hi-Pitch IPA, Hi-Wire Lager, Prime Time Pale, and the NEWEST to-be-named seasonal.  Glasses are $3.50, lager bottles are $3 and pitchers at $12! AND buy a pint and keep the Hi-Wire pint glass (while they last).

Asheville Hosts the WNC Orchid Society Show at the North Carolina Arboretum

March 29 - 30    WNC Orchid Society Show    The WNC Orchid Society will host its annual show at The North Carolina Arboretum. The popular juried plant show will also feature award-winning orchid vendors, many of whom are nationally recognized growers and hybridizers. 

Thousands of orchids will fill the Education Center of the Arboretum in this show, which is one of the largest in the southeast. This year’s theme, “Trails of Orchids,” will be interpreted in carefully crafted displays by world-class orchid growers and regional orchid societies.

Educational programs include Guided Tours of the "Trails";  Decoding Dendrobiums: The Surprising Orchids You Thought You Knew Presented by Mark Reinke of Marble Branch Farms;  The Art of Repotting Your Orchid Presented by Cynthia Gillooly of Saracena Design;  Oncidium Types and their Culture Presented by Linda Wilhelm of Woodland Orchids;  Slipper Orchids Everyone Can Grow Presented by Hadley Cash of Marriott Orchids.

Rare and unusual plants, specialty lighting and orchid supplies will be available for purchase. Admission: Free with parking fee admission ($12 per vehicle). 

Asheville's Diana Worthan Theatre Presents LEO: The Anti-Gravity Show this Weekend

March 28 - 29 at The Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square in downtown Asheville NC:  LEO: The Anti-Gravity Show.  LEO is the unusual journey of an otherwise ordinary man whose world becomes physically unhinged. In this witty, one-man show of acrobatic physical theatre, Leo lives at a ninety-degree angle to the rest of the world.  "With fluid, real-world handstands, tumbles, and falls projected by an ingenious video stage concept, the simple act of standing up is transformed into a stupendous feat, while walking up a wall becomes the most effortless and natural event."

The show has won awards at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where it made an unprecedented three-year run.

"Biltmore Blooms" Begins this Week

March 20 - May 23   Biltmore Blooms - The 29th Annual Festival of Flowers. Biltmore's gardens, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, are alive with color as spring arrives. Enjoy special events and the beauty of tulips, azaleas, and countless other flowers during Biltmore Blooms. 

For the first time, guests will be able to step down into the Winter Garden to enjoy a display of exotic orchids intimately, just as George and Edith Vanderbilt's guests might have. Some of the plants will be the same species that were planned for the Biltmore Conservatory in 1894. Outdoors, enjoy a beautiful progression of blooms from tulips to pansies, azaleas, and much more.

Chase Brock Experience in Downtown Asheville

March 21 - 22 at The Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square in downtown Asheville NC - The Chase Brock Experience at Diana Wortham Theatre   Experience an explosion of exhilarating athleticism.  The Diana Wortham Theatre welcomes home one of WNC's greatest cultural prodigies and his dance company.

Hendersonville native Chase Brock has performed on Broadway, formed his own dance company, and choreographed works for everything from television and opera, to the hit Nintendo Wii game "Dance on Broadway," and for Broadway's Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark — all before hitting age 30.

See more Asheville events and attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Wham Bam Bowie Band at Highland Brewing Company

March 14, 6 PM - 8 PM   at The Highland Brewing Company, 12 Old Charlotte Highwau in Asheville NC - The Wham Bam Bowie Band pays tribute to David Bowie’s catalog by starting with his earliest era. The band plans to work their way through the catalog in, roughly, chronological order. Their first run of shows features classics from the Hunky Dory and Space Oddity albums, with the highlight of the evening being a complete performance of Bowie’s influential breakthrough “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and The Spiders From Mars.

”Wham Bam Bowie Band! brings Bowie’s iconic music to life, onstage once again. Unlike many artists who may be the subject of tributes, of course Bowie is still very much an active and creative force, with his highly acclaimed and international #1 record “The Next Day” reminding fans everywhere that he is still popular.

Tribute to Madison County NC Fiddlers

March 15 - May 15   Tribute to Madison County NC Fiddlers at the Madison County Arts Center, 90 S Main Street Marshall NC. Madison County’s premiere event featuring Bobby Hicks, Arvil Freeman, Roger Howell, Vipers' Dream featuring Adam Masters, Susi Gott, Jake & Sarah Owen and The Sons of Ralph. Admission: $20 - 3 PM and 7:30 PM performances.

Marshall is located just north of Asheville NC.

Book Now for the 29th Annual Comedy Classic Weekend in Asheville

March 7-9   26th Annual Comedy Classic Weekend at the Grove Park Inn   Join the Grove Park Inn for two days and nights full of laughter as they celebrate this 26th Annual Comedy Classic Weekend. Package holders get access to all of the weekend's laugh-out-loud events including preferred seating for Friday and Saturday comedy shows. Friday's headliner will be comedian Gary Gulman and Saturday's headliner will be comedian John Heffron. 

Check Grove Park Inn availability and current rates HERE

Asheville Mardi Gras Parade

March 2   Mardi Gras in Asheville   Enjoy a variety of events filled with music, dance and costumes during Asheville's Mardi Gras. The Mardi Gras Grand Parade takes place at 3:05 PM. in downtown Asheville. This event will happen rain or shine. They'll be dancing in the streets of Asheville. Everyone is invited to participate in, or simply spectate this family-friendly spectacle. Asheville's Mardi Gras downtown celebration is rapidly growing as more and more sparkles, feathers, and beads show up each year to march in the annual parade.

Find more events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

Asheville's Folk Art Center Hosts Bee School for Beginners

March 1 - 2   2014 WNC Beginners Bee School at The Folk Art Center    The WNC Center for Honeybee Research and the Buncombe County Beekeepers present this informative 2 day Introduction to Beekeeping. It is open to beginning beekeepers and all others with an interest in bees. 

Asheville Hosts 18th Annual Bluegrass First Class

February 14 - 16    18th Annual Bluegrass First Class Some of the best bluegrass acts in the country rocking out all over the hotel, all weekend. Friday’s show features the impeccable harmonies of 7-time Female Vocalist of the Year Rhonda Vincent and The Rage. 5-time IBMA Male Vocalist of the year Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, North Carolina’s own Lou Reid & Carolina, Newton & Thomas, the old duet sounds from the 30′s and 40′s with the Crazy Water Crystals, and a professional band all of whom have graduated from East Tennessee State University (ETSU), Sons of Bluegrass, with special guest, Amethyst.

The event is held at the Crowne Plaza Tennis and Golf Resort. Get current rates and availability.

Aquila Theatre Performs Two Productions in Asheville

January 31 and February 1  at the Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square in downtown Asheville - The Aquila Theatre Company’s “two plays in one weekend” has become an Asheville tradition.  Based in New York and London, Aquila Theatre Company this season brings to life one of the most revered novels of the twentieth-century, Ray Bradbury’s visionary parable Fahrenheit 451, and its pertinent issues of censorship, the effects of technology on society and literature, and the means by which knowledge is gained.

The second performance is Aquila’s new production of Shakespeare's irresistibly charming Twelfth Night  which promises to thrill and enchant.

For insight and increased enjoyment of the plays, ticket holders can attend free pre-performance discussions in The Forum at Diana Wortham Theatre at 7:00 PM  before each performance.

Get a link for the Diana Wortham Theatre and other local entertainment on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Asheville's Grove Park Inn Hosts Celtic Weekend

January 30 - February 2   Celtic Weekend at the Grove Park Inn   Passion, artistry and skill collide during this dream weekend for lovers of all things Celtic. Join them as they celebrate the Scottish-Irish heritage of Western North Carolina with the finest in music.

In addition to the feature concerts with Seven Nations and Gaelic Storm, other weekend activities include Scottish Border Collie sheepdog trial demonstrations, Celtic vendors, a cooking demonstration, chair massages, guided history tours, and live Celtic music throughout the In.

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.

Diana Wortham Theatre Presents "Dirty Barbie and Other Girlhood Tales" during the Fringe Art Festival

January 23 - 25 at 8 PM at The Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S Pack Square in downtown Asheville NC: Dirty Barbie and Other Girlhood Tales, named a Top 5 Pick at the 2012 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, transports audiences back to the best (and the hardest) moments of childhood.

In 1978, a mother, newly widowed, moved her family from the wide, open spaces of Wyoming to a tiny town in North Carolina. Misbehaving ensued. Over thirty years later, Denise "DeeDee" Stewart wrote about her childhood - and her mother - in this poignant, one-woman show filled with tales of scarlet fever, scotch over ice, and girls gone wild.


The performance is part of the Intersections Series taking place in the The Forum at DWT and are limited to 100 seats, so get your tickets today. Dirty Barbie is presented in conjunction with the 2014 Asheville Fringe Arts Festival.

The Grove Park Inn Hosts the Annual All that Jazz Weekend

January 24 - 26   Annual All That Jazz Weekend   at the Grove Park Inn. Another spectacular weekend of "All Things Jazz",  this year Billy the Kid plays alongside Rockell Scott on Friday and Grammy Nominated Jazz Artist, Gerald Albright takes the stage on Saturday.

This event has earned national recognition as one of the premiere jazz festivals of the Southeast. Evening and afternoon concerts in the Grand Ballroom along with fun activities and live music throughout the rest of the resort make this a weekend that will satisfy even the most discriminating jazz enthusiast.

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.



 

Fringe Art Festival in Asheville

January 23 - 26   Fringe Art Festival   serves patrons of art from Asheville and beyond by facilitating the creation and production of avant garde work that may otherwise not find a venue.

In past years the artistic mix has included actors, dancers, singers, videographers, painters and musicians, presenting a varied range of interesting work including cross-genre improvisation, Butoh dance, sketch theatre, modern dance, and multi-media performance art.

Learn more about Asheville NC HERE.

Martin Luther King Jr Speaks in Montreat NC near Asheville 1965

WNC Lessons in Leadership Presents Harry Paul (the fish guy)

January 28 at The Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in downtown Asheville - Come on out for a wonderful evening of learning and networking with the best-selling author "FISH", Harry Paul, presented by WNC Lessons in Leadership.

"Harry is co-author of the international best-selling leadership book FISH! which has sold more than 5 million copies and follows the fortunes of a fictional company whose management introduces changes modeled on the behavior they witness at the world-famous Pike's Place Fish Market in Seattle."

Networking and Socializing begins at 5:30 PM, followed by the main event with Harry Paul and opening presenter, local author Keith Challenger from  6:30 - 8:30 PM.

Registration is only $20.00 and can be purchased online at www.wncleaders.com. All proceeds benefit local charities including MANNA and the YMCA of Western North Carolina.

NC Vacation Home Rentals near Asheville

Asheville Vacation Home Rentals 

Choose from a variety of vacation rentals in and near Asheville. Find a downtown loft, a mountain view Asheville luxury home rental or a cozy mountain cabin. See photos, details, availability, map, guest reviews and rates for each rental all on one easy to use page with no hidden fees. Search by date, features or price.

Happy Rental Guarantee gives renters peace of mind along with a Best Price Promise.

Find more mountain rentals and complete visitor information on the Asheville NC Guide

MLK Annual Peace March and Rally in Asheville

January 20  The  Annual Peace March and Rally  celebrating Martin Luther King Jr Day will take place beginning 11:30 AM at St. James AME Church at Martin Luther King Boulevard and Hildebrand Street and continuing to City-County Plaza in Pack Square Park.

Speakers at the Rally, which coincides with President Obama’s second inauguration ceremony, will present readings from the Emancipation Proclamation, Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech, and President Obama’s famous 2008 address to the nation on race.

The 2014 Candlelight Service is 6:00 PM at Nazareth First Baptist Church.  These are all FREE events.

Find local lodging and attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

AKC Dog Agility Trial this Weekend in Asheville

January 16-19   American Kennel Club (AKC) Dog Agility Trial   The Blue Ridge Agility Club of Western North Carolina is hosting an American Kennel Club Dog (AKC) dog agility trial. Spectators are welcomed to attend and admission is free. Over 300 purebred dogs, from throughout the southeast, will compete at various levels of difficulty.

The event is held at the WNC Agricultural Center in the Ashevile NC suburb of Fletcher.

Fin links for Asheville lodging, attractions and restaurants on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Asheville Hosts Martin Luther King Jr Prayer Breakfast

January 18   Martin Luther King Jr Breakfast Prayer    Asheville’s 33rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Breakfast will be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Grove Park Inn with guest speakers Dawn Porter, founder of Trilogy Films and director of Gideon’s Army, and Travis Williams, featured in the film as one of three public defenders who dedicate their lives and careers to seeking justice for those most in need.

The theme of this year's King Celebration will feature events about how to bring justice to America’s criminal justice system.

Find more Asheville weekend events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

 

LYLAS at Asheville Community Theatre

January 16 through 25 at Asheville Community Theatre, 35 East Walnut Street in downtown Asheville NC - LYLAS  (“Love Ya Like A Sis”) is performed by Asheville’s all-female sketch comedy troupe. The new, original production follows previous sold-out performances by this award-winning group.

Diana Wortham Theatre Kicks Off 2014 Season with Eisenhower Dance

January 17-18, 8 PM at the Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square in downtown Asheville NC - Eisenhower Dance.  Playful and powerful, one of the nation's premier contemporary dance companies kicks off DWT's 2014 events next week. You will be captivated by the virtuosic dancers of Eisenhower Dance, whose technical brilliance is a blend of drama, momentum and force.  

Pre-performance Discussions: Ticket holders can attend free pre-show discussions with Artistic Director Laurie Eisenhower and/or Eisenhower Dance dancers in The Forum at Diana Wortham Theatre at 7:00 PM before each evening performance.

Eisenhower Dance for Students and Families:
Kids in Motion: Wed. Jan. 15 at 3:30 PM: This is a special performance for the after school crowd featuring fun and interactive audience participation.

Motion in Motion: Fri. Jan. 17 at 10:00 AM: This fast-paced and lively presentation introduces students to the history of Motown through narration, performance, and audience participation.

Tickets are still available for these Matinee Series performances, which are open to the public and designed for families, school groups, homeschoolers, and community groups.  Individual and group tickets for Matinee Series performances are available through the box office by calling 828-257-4530 or online at www.dwtheatre.com.


Eisenhower Dance Master Class:
Join dancers with Eisenhower Dance for a Master Class on Thursday, January 16 from 10:45 AM - 12:00 PM at the UNC-Asheville Dance Studio in the Sherrill Center. This class is open to the public and to all skill levels. There is no registration required for, nor cost associated with, this class.

Last Weekend for Tapestry Weavers Exhibition

Tommye Scanlin tapestry

Through January 14 at The Folk Art Center Main Gallery  - Tapestry Weavers South Exhibition.  

Last chance to see this show  featuring fiber art created by members of the non-profit professional organization dedicated to advancing the art and craft of tapestry weaving. 

The Folk Art Center is located on The blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 382 in Asheville NC.