What’s actually happening in Asheville.

Every local calendar, one searchable page. No ads, no algorithm.

Coming up

109 events · 8 local calendars · updated Aug 8, 12:24 AM

Saturday, August 8

9:30–11 AM Live music $15 for Members; $20 non-members

The Art of Yoga | Summer-Fall Series 2026

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Join a yoga session at the Asheville Art Museum that combines mindful movement with guided art viewing. All levels welcome, with tea and conversation afterward.

10 AM–12 PM Food & markets

Maintenance of Native Plant Gardens Through the Seasons

Winding Stair Farm via ASAP ↗

Learn how to maintain native plant gardens across all seasons with expert Adam Bigelow. Focus on ecological balance and seasonal care in a hands-on workshop.

1–4 PM Art & culture Free for Members or included with Mus...

Makerspace

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Drop-in art activity at the Asheville Art Museum for all ages. Create your own artwork inspired by the museum’s collection or current exhibitions.

1–4 PM Outdoors

Letterpress Demonstration with Jessica White

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Watch Jessica White demonstrate vintage letterpress printing on handmade paper. Visitors can create their own keepsakes during the session.

1–5 PM Games & trivia

Back to School Bash

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

A community gathering to welcome the start of the school year with activities and resources for families and students.

2–3 PM Art & culture Free

Public Tour: Featured Exhibition

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Join a free guided tour of a featured exhibition at the Asheville Art Museum. No reservations required, led by volunteer educators or staff.

Also Aug 15, Aug 22

2 PM Live music

AVL Sounds Fest

Grey Eagle Music Hall via The Grey Eagle ↗

A multi-venue music festival featuring 250 acts across 17 stages in Asheville. Experience local and national talent across genres.

5 PM Live music

AVL Sounds Fest

The Orange Peel via The Orange Peel ↗

Live music at The Orange Peel as part of AVL Sounds Fest. Enjoy performances by Sir Woman, River Whyless, and other regional and national acts.

8–11 PM Live music $50

Enter the Garden: The Awakening

The Event Space at Hi Wire Brewing via AVLtoday ↗

A theatrical pole dance show about rebuilding after loss, featuring 20 performances by local and national dancers in a new production.

8:30 PM Live music Free

Live Music with Appalachian Renegades

Wild Wing Cafe South Asheville via AVLtoday ↗

Free live music at Wild Wing Cafe South Asheville with Appalachian Renegades. Enjoy a relaxed evening of local tunes in a casual setting.

8:30 PM Live music $10

The JLloyd Mashup

Jack of the Wood via AVLtoday ↗

Live music by The JLloyd Mashup at Jack of the Wood, blending acid jazz, funk, soul, and Afrobeat with rotating special guests.

Sunday, August 9

11 AM Live music

COUNTRY BRUNCH w/ Jackson Grimm

Grey Eagle Patio Stage via The Grey Eagle ↗

Country brunch with Jackson Grimm on the Grey Eagle Patio Stage. Enjoy live music and a relaxed meal in a scenic outdoor setting.

1–2 PM Art & culture Free for Members or included with Mus...

Art Break | The Art of Paper with co-curator Cynthia Thompson

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Cynthia Thompson discusses the art of paper in a curated talk at the Asheville Art Museum. This event is part of the museum's Art Break series and offers insight into paper as a medium in contemporary art.

2–4 PM On stage $12 for Members; $15 for non-members

Exhibition on Screen | John Singer Sargent: Fashion and Swagger

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Explore John Singer Sargent’s fashion-forward portraits through a documentary filmed at major art institutions in Boston and London. The film examines his influence on art, culture, and style.

2 PM Live music

AVL Sounds Fest

Hellbender by The Orange Peel via The Orange Peel ↗

AVL Sounds Fest features Dr. Dog, Floating Action, and Tyler Ramsey & Carl Broemel at Hellbender by The Orange Peel. A major music event with a diverse lineup across multiple genres.

2 PM Live music

AVL Sounds Fest

Grey Eagle Music Hall via The Grey Eagle ↗

AVL Sounds Fest brings a wide range of musical acts to the Grey Eagle Music Hall. This multi-day festival features local, regional, and national talent across 17 stages in Asheville.

6:30–8:30 PM Live music $22 for Members; $25 for non-members

New Amsterdam String Band

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

New Amsterdam String Band performs a concert at the Asheville Art Museum, blending classical string traditions with improvisational energy. The show includes an intermission with access to the museum’s art and café.

7 PM On stage $97

John Mulaney: Mister Whatever

Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville via AVLtoday ↗

John Mulaney performs his latest stand-up tour, Mister Whatever, at the Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville. A high-profile comedy show featuring his signature storytelling and humor.

7–9 PM On stage $15 advance, $18 day of

RAD WOMEN, Femme Comedy in The RAD

The River Arts District Brewing Company (RAD Brewing Co.) via AVLtoday ↗

An all-femme comedy show at RAD Brewing Co. features top comedians from across the country, including a surprise headliner. The event celebrates women in comedy in a vibrant, casual setting.

7:30 PM On stage Free

Mystery Movie Night hosted by Orbit DVD

Asheville Pizza Company via AVLtoday ↗

Mystery Movie Night at Asheville Pizza Company offers a surprise film with no hints or spoilers. Attendees can enjoy a slice and a drink while experiencing an unpredictable cinematic event.

Monday, August 10

4–6 PM Food & markets Free

Information Session 1: WNC AgOptions 2027 Grant Cycle

Mountain Horticultural Crops Research Station via ASAP ↗

Learn about the WNC AgOptions 2027 Grant Cycle at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research Station. This free session covers funding opportunities for farmers and includes Q&A with program staff.

6 PM Live music $13.05

PATIO SHOW: Woody Wood & Abe Reid of The Blue Rags

Grey Eagle Patio Stage via The Grey Eagle ↗

Woody Wood and Abe Reid of The Blue Rags perform a live patio show at Grey Eagle. The act blends Appalachian soul, rock, blues, and Piedmont roots music in a genre-defying set.

6:30–8 PM Wellness Free

Dharma Talk with Anne-Marie Polanski

Quietude via AVLtoday ↗

Anne-Marie Polanski leads a dharma talk on Buddha’s wisdom at Quietude. The session includes meditation and discussion, welcoming beginners and those interested in mindfulness.

6:30 PM Games & trivia

Trivia Night at Old Town District

Old Town District via AVLtoday ↗

Join a trivia night at Old Town District for a fun, competitive evening with themed questions and prizes. A popular weekly event for local fans of knowledge and friendly rivalry.

7 PM Live music

Carolina Celtic Brian Dooley & Mooncoin

Asheville via AVLtoday ↗

Irish guitarist and piper Brian Dooley performs with Asheville-based band Mooncoin in a Celtic music showcase featuring traditional tunes, classical influences, and Highland piping. A deep dive into roots and rhythm for fans of acoustic and folk traditions.

Tuesday, August 11

6:30–8 PM Wellness

Alignment & Form: Creating Muscular Balance: 6-Week Series

Asheville Yoga Center via AVLtoday ↗

A six-week in-person or online yoga series focused on muscular balance, alignment, and nervous system regulation using Ayurvedic principles. Ideal for those seeking pain relief and holistic physical well-being through structured movement and breathwork.

7 PM Games & trivia Free

DumbAshe Trivia

Hi-Wire River Arts District via AVLtoday ↗

Join DumbAshe Trivia for a fun, competitive night of pop culture and general knowledge questions at Hi-Wire River Arts District. Bring your team, a drink, and enjoy laughs and friendly rivalry in a casual, social setting.

7–9 PM Wellness sliding scale

Solar Eclipse Circle

West Asheville Yoga Studio via AVLtoday ↗

Participate in a lunar circle at West Asheville Yoga Studio guided by Sierra Hollister. Explore consciousness and inner balance through drumming, meditation, and ritual. Open to all, with a sliding scale fee and pre-registration required.

Wednesday, August 12

12–2 PM Community

Special Meeting: Asheville Regional Housing Consortium (Virtual)

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

Attend a virtual meeting of the Asheville Regional Housing Consortium to discuss regional housing policy, planning, and community development. Open to stakeholders and interested residents.

4–6 PM Art & culture

Historic Resources Commission (In-Person)

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

In-person meeting of the Historic Resources Commission to review preservation efforts, zoning, and cultural heritage matters in Asheville. A public forum for civic engagement on local history and architecture.

5:30 PM Live music 8.65

Patio Show: Derian Blane

Grey Eagle Music Hall via The Grey Eagle ↗

Derian Blane performs an intimate acoustic set at Grey Eagle Music Hall, blending funk, soul, and rustic storytelling. A dynamic singer-songwriter known for original compositions on love, identity, and resilience.

6–8 PM Food & markets

Information Session: 2027 AgOptions Grant Program

Avery Community Center at Heritage Park via ASAP ↗

Learn about the 2027 AgOptions Grant Program at Avery Community Center. This free session covers grant eligibility, application timelines, and support for farmers diversifying or expanding operations in Western North Carolina.

6:30–8:30 PM Wellness 20-30

Shamanic Journey Circle

The Well via AVLtoday ↗

Join a shamanic journey circle at The Well in West Asheville. Experience guided drumming, journeying through spiritual worlds, and group ritual. Snacks and a closing ceremony included. Sliding scale fee applies.

7–8:15 PM Wellness $25

Candlelit Yin & Gong Bath

Yoga Center of Black Mountain via AVLtoday ↗

A candlelit Yin yoga and gong bath session at Yoga Center of Black Mountain. Experience deep relaxation, nervous system reset, and emotional clarity through long-held poses and resonant sound vibrations.

7–9 PM Games & trivia Free

Trivia Night

12 Bones Smokehouse & Brewing via AVLtoday ↗

Join a weekly trivia night at 12 Bones Smokehouse & Brewing. Teams of up to six compete for prizes in a fun, casual taproom setting. Bring your phone and a drink for a night of friendly competition.

Thursday, August 13

12 AM Art & culture

New Student Move-In

UNC Asheville via UNC Asheville ↗

New students move into campus housing at UNC Asheville and begin their academic journey. A welcoming event for incoming students to settle in, meet peers, and prepare for the start of the academic year.

5:30 PM Live music $8.65

Patio Show: Michael Dunham

Grey Eagle Patio Stage via The Grey Eagle ↗

Singer-songwriter Michael Dunham performs an acoustic set blending bluegrass, country, and jazz at the Grey Eagle Patio Stage. All ages welcome, but the event is not aimed at children.

7:30–9:30 PM On stage $43.56

"Clyde's"

Asheville Community Theatre via AVLtoday ↗

A dramatic play about redemption and community set in a truck stop sandwich shop, featuring formerly incarcerated staff striving to rebuild their lives through the pursuit of the perfect sandwich.

7:30 PM Live music

Pierce Pettis

Asheville via AVLtoday ↗

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Pierce Pettis performs an intimate set of storytelling songs with masterful guitar work, drawing on decades of experience across multiple genres.

7:30–11 PM Live music

Old Farmers Ball: Hot Coffee Breakdown with Emily Rush calling

Bryson Gym via AVLtoday ↗

A bluegrass jam session at Bryson Gym with a free lesson followed by dancing, featuring musicians Tom Cunningham, Kate Sanders, and Luis deLeon.

Friday, August 14

12–1 PM Art & culture Free

Slow Art Tour

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Join a guided slow art tour at the Asheville Art Museum to experience mindfulness and connection through extended observation of artworks.

4–5 PM Art & culture

Chancellor’s Welcome

UNC Asheville via UNC Asheville ↗

The Chancellor’s Welcome kicks off the academic year at UNC Asheville with remarks from the chancellor and an opportunity to connect with the campus community.

5–7 PM Art & culture

Welcome Picnic

UNC Asheville via UNC Asheville ↗

A welcome gathering on the UNC Asheville quad featuring food and socializing for new students, faculty, and staff.

6–8 PM Community

Southside Block Party

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

A neighborhood celebration in Asheville featuring local vendors, music, and community activities in a mixed indoor and outdoor setting.

6–10 PM Food & markets

Picklepalooza!

Asheville Sports Club via ASAP ↗

A family-friendly event with a pickleball tournament, kid-friendly pickling activities, and educational sessions on fermentation and food preservation.

7–11 PM Community

Movies in the Park

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

An outdoor movie screening in a city park, offering a relaxed evening of film under the stars for the whole community.

8 PM Live music

Abacab

The Orange Peel via The Orange Peel ↗

A tribute to Genesis, Phil Collins, and Peter Gabriel with high-energy performances of classic rock hits at The Orange Peel, for ages 18 and up.

8 PM Live music $14.30

BLOODY MADISON TAKEOVER: White Oak Splits, Paint Rock, Assmystics, Subject to Change

Grey Eagle Music Hall via The Grey Eagle ↗

A live music showcase featuring four local bands—White Oak Splits, Paint Rock, Assmystics, and Subject to Change—performing in a high-energy, standing-room-only setting.

8–11:59 PM Live music $15

No Bull Fest

27 Club via AVLtoday ↗

No Bull Fest at the 27 Club features live music in an indoor venue. Admission is $15 with no indication of being free or family-oriented.

8–10 PM Live music $15.3

BLOODY MADISON TAKEOVER

The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub via AVLtoday ↗

White Oak Splits, Paint Rock, and Assmystics perform at The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub. This all-ages rock and experimental music show is not aimed at children.

8–10:30 PM Live music $10

Sebastien Bordeaux Trio returns to the Cork & Keg

Weinhaus via AVLtoday ↗

Sebastien Bordeaux Trio returns to Weinhaus with a blend of honky tonk, blues, jazz, and Appalachian folk. The $10 cover is for an indoor music performance.

Saturday, August 15

10–11:30 AM Wellness $15 for Members; $20 for non-members

The Art of Wellbeing: Therapeutic Art Making in the Museum

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Join a guided therapeutic art-making session at the Asheville Art Museum led by a registered art therapist. This wellness-focused event is not for children.

10 AM Live music Free

Summer Market Series: Locally Made Arts and Crafts

Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event via The Grey Eagle ↗

The Grey Eagle hosts a free summer market featuring locally made crafts and art. The event is open to all ages and includes family-friendly activities.

7:30–7:30 PM Live music

Dominic Fike

Asheville Yards via Asheville Yards ↗

Dominic Fike performs at Asheville Yards, a mixed indoor and outdoor venue. The concert features music and food, with no indication of being family-oriented.

8 PM Live music

WonkyWilla & SoDown

The Orange Peel via The Orange Peel ↗

WonkyWilla & SoDown headline at The Orange Peel. This 18+ music show is not suitable for children.

8 PM Live music $11.05

Sebastien Bordeaux

Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event via The Grey Eagle ↗

Sebastien Bordeaux performs at The Grey Eagle Music Hall. The all-ages show features roots music with influences from country, blues, and jazz.

8–10 PM On stage $26 advance, $33 day of

Modelface Comedy presents Tom Thakkar

AyurPrana Listening Room via AVLtoday ↗

Tom Thakkar performs stand-up comedy at AyurPrana Listening Room. The event is not for children and is held in an indoor venue.

8–9:30 PM On stage $22.52

Gluten-Free Comedy at Ginger's Revenge

Ginger's Revenge via AVLtoday ↗

Gluten-Free Comedy features top comedians at Ginger's Revenge. The show is not family-oriented and is held in an indoor venue.

9 PM Live music

Nate Hall // Thee Old Night // Jed Willis

Fleetwoods via AVLtoday ↗

Nate Hall, Erik Sugg & Thee Old Night, and Jed Willis perform at Fleetwoods. This indoor music show features folk, blues, and Americana with no indication of being family-friendly.

Sunday, August 16

12 PM Live music $20.45–$30.75

Burlesque Brunch

Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event via The Grey Eagle ↗

An adult-only burlesque showcase featuring an all-BIPOC lineup at Grey Eagle Music Hall. Expect glamorous performances and a festive brunch atmosphere with a seated show format.

1–3 PM Live music Free for Members or included with Mus...

Sunday Sounds | Willie Sime

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

A live piano performance by local artist Willie Sime at the Asheville Art Museum, blending jazz, classical, and minimalist influences in a relaxed, intimate setting.

2–3 PM Art & culture Free for Museum Members or included w...

Public Tour: Discovering Art in Asheville

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

An interactive public tour at the Asheville Art Museum exploring the collection and current exhibitions, led by volunteer educators or staff with no reservations required.

4 PM Live music Free

Dinner and a show with Jamie Ager

Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event via The Grey Eagle ↗

A free concert in support of Jamie Ager, farmer and U.S. Congress candidate, featuring Doss Church & The Unholy Noise and The Lucky Buckeyes at Grey Eagle Music Hall.

7–9 PM Art & culture

Sunset Party

UNC Asheville via UNC Asheville ↗

A sunset celebration at UNC Asheville for the start of the academic year, featuring music and socializing in a mixed indoor and outdoor setting.

Monday, August 17

6 PM Live music $13.05

PATIO SHOW: Woody Wood & Abe Reid of The Blue Rags

Grey Eagle Patio Stage via The Grey Eagle ↗

An all-ages outdoor music performance on the Grey Eagle Patio Stage featuring Woody Wood and Abe Reid of The Blue Rags, blending rock, blues, and soul with Piedmont roots traditions.

6–7 PM Outdoors $22

Sunset Yoga in Montford Park

Montford Park via AVLtoday ↗

A sunset yoga session in Montford Park, led by instructors from West Asheville Yoga, combining breathwork and movement in a natural outdoor setting.

7–9 PM Live music

Local Live with Jay Brown

Asheville via AVLtoday ↗

A live music showcase hosted by Jay Brown at a venue in Asheville, featuring local artists performing and collaborating in an informal, community-driven setting.

Tuesday, August 18

9–11 AM Community

Historic Resources Commission Executive Committee (Virtual)

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

A virtual meeting of the Historic Resources Commission, focused on city planning and preservation issues. Open to the public, but not intended for children or families.

10 AM–12 PM Community

Housing and Community Development Committee (Virtual)

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

A virtual city committee meeting addressing housing and community development policies. Not suitable for children or families.

1–3 PM Community

Planning, Economic Development and Environment Committee (Virtual)

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

A virtual city committee meeting on planning, economic development, and environmental policy. Not intended for children or families.

5:30 PM Live music $12.05

Patio Show: McKinney

Grey Eagle Patio Stage via The Grey Eagle ↗

An all-ages live music performance by bassist and singer-songwriter McKinney at the Grey Eagle Patio Stage. Enjoy a casual evening of original music in a laid-back outdoor setting.

6–7 PM Community

Burton St Community Association Monthly Meeting

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

A monthly community meeting hosted by the Burton St Community Association. Open to residents, but not designed for children or families.

7–9 PM Community $35

Pints & Paint Night-Diatribe Brewing-Black Bear

Diatribe Brewing Co. via AVLtoday ↗

A two-hour paint-and-sip event at Diatribe Brewing Co., led by an instructor. Participants create their own canvas artwork while enjoying craft beer in a casual, social setting.

7:30–9:30 PM Live music

Dark City Blues Jam

White Horse Black Mountain via AVLtoday ↗

A live blues jam at White Horse Black Mountain, welcoming musicians and fans of blues, soul, and community-driven music. Open to all skill levels and styles.

7:30–9 PM On stage $25

Make Fascism Fun Again

Sly Grog via AVLtoday ↗

A provocative, satirical performance blending theater and dark humor. Explores themes of power, control, and desire through a surreal, adult-oriented lens.

Wednesday, August 19

9:30–10:30 AM Wellness Free for members (pre-registration re...

The Art of Yoga | Wednesdays

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

A yoga session at the Asheville Art Museum combining mindful movement with close observation of art. All levels welcome, with mats available on-site.

11:15 AM–12:15 PM Art & culture Free

Slow Art Tour

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

A guided slow art tour at the Asheville Art Museum, encouraging deep, reflective viewing of current exhibitions. Free for members and included with museum admission.

12–1:30 PM Community

Rescheduled: Housing Recovery Board (Hybrid)

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

A hybrid meeting of the Housing Recovery Board, discussing housing policy and recovery efforts. Not intended for children or families.

5:30–5:30 PM Food & markets

Honey Extraction: From Comb to Jar

Asheville Tool Library via ASAP ↗

A hands-on workshop at the Asheville Tool Library teaching honey extraction from comb to jar. Participants take home their own jar of raw, local honey.

7 PM Live music $14.30

Golden Folk Sessions

Grey Eagle Music Hall via The Grey Eagle ↗

Golden Folk Sessions features six handpicked artists performing three-song sets in an intimate, seated environment. The lineup is revealed only at showtime, offering a unique listening experience for fans of original music.

7 PM Live music

Jazz Showcase - Trio Big Band

Asheville via AVLtoday ↗

The White Horse Jazz Showcase highlights regional vocalists and UNCA jazz faculty in a performance celebrating the Swinging Era. Hosted by Dr. Bill Bares, this event features live jazz in a community-focused setting.

7–9 PM Live music

Jazz Showcase

Asheville via AVLtoday ↗

A jazz showcase hosted by Dr. Bill Bares, featuring regional talent and special guests. This event celebrates jazz from the Swinging Era and is part of a recurring community series.

8 PM Live music Donation based

Queer Fusion Dance Party

The Mule via AVLtoday ↗

Join Asheville Phoenix Fire for a queer-friendly dance party with a pre-party lesson. The event celebrates inclusivity and features music and movement in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

Thursday, August 20

11 AM–1 PM Community

City Council Agenda Briefing (In-Person)

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

An in-person briefing on the City Council agenda, open to the public. Attendees can learn about upcoming decisions and participate in civic discussions.

12:30–2 PM Community

Design Review Committee (In-Person)

City of Asheville via City of Asheville ↗

A public meeting of the Design Review Committee to discuss architectural and planning proposals. Open to community members interested in local development and design standards.

5–9 PM Live music Free for Members or included with Mus...

Third Thursday | DJ Phantom Pantone

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

The Asheville Art Museum’s Third Thursday features DJ Phantom Pantone on the rooftop, live music, art making, and cocktails. This monthly event celebrates creativity and community in a vibrant setting.

6–7:30 PM Art & culture Free for Members or included with Mus...

Book + Art | The Loneliest Monk

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Poet Richard Chess and artist Tobi Kahn discuss their collaborative work, centered on the poetry collection The Loneliest Monk and its visual counterpart. A deep dialogue between literary and visual art.

6:30–8:30 PM Art & culture Free

Opening Reception: The Shape of Repair: Patchwork in Wood Exhibition

UNC Asheville via UNC Asheville ↗

Celebrate the opening of Laura Petrovich-Cheney’s exhibition The Shape of Repair: Patchwork in Wood with an artist reception and talk. The work explores memory and renewal through salvaged wood sculptures.

7:30 PM Live music $22.21

THE MOTH Presents: Asheville StorySLAM – “SCHOOLED”

Grey Eagle Music Hall via The Grey Eagle ↗

The Moth StorySLAM invites storytellers to share true, five-minute personal stories on the theme of 'Schooled.' Attendees can listen or sign up to perform in this open-mic event.

7:30–10 PM Wellness Free

Thursday, August 20 - Men's Fire

Sacred Fire Asheville - Firekeepers via AVLtoday ↗

A men’s gathering focused on connection, reflection, and renewal. Held at Sacred Fire Asheville, this event offers a space for personal growth and community bonding in a natural setting.

7:30–11 PM Live music

Old Farmers Ball: Playing with Fyre with Tom Macklin calling

Bryson Gym via AVLtoday ↗

Old Farmers Ball features live music by Tom Macklin and a free dance lesson followed by a dance session. A community-driven event celebrating traditional and folk dance in Swannanoa.

8 PM Live music

Buckcherry

The Orange Peel via The Orange Peel ↗

Buckcherry performs at The Orange Peel in a show restricted to attendees aged 18 and over. The concert features rock music in an indoor venue.

8–9:30 PM On stage $22.52

Rooftop Comedy featuring Jeremy Alder

Antidote Cocktail Lounge at Chemist via AVLtoday ↗

Jeremy Alder headlines a rooftop comedy night at Antidote Cocktail Lounge, featuring stand-up from a North Carolina favorite in an outdoor setting.

Friday, August 21

1–3 PM Art & culture

Weaving Demonstration with Betty Hilton-Nash

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Betty Hilton-Nash demonstrates tapestry weaving at the Asheville Art Museum, sharing her decades-long expertise in fiber art.

5–8 PM Art & culture

Rockypalooza

UNC Asheville via UNC Asheville ↗

Rockypalooza returns to UNC Asheville’s Quad with food, live music, student performances, games, and interactive activities in a mixed indoor-outdoor campus festival.

8 PM Live music

The Wood Brothers

The Orange Peel via The Orange Peel ↗

The Wood Brothers headline a night of music at The Orange Peel, delivering their signature blend of roots and Americana in an indoor concert venue.

8 PM Live music $25.73

Carson Peters and Iron Mountain

Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event via The Grey Eagle ↗

Carson Peters and Iron Mountain bring high-energy bluegrass to Grey Eagle Music Hall in a family-friendly, all-ages seated show.

8–10:30 PM Live music $10.00

Laughing Lizards - Cajun/Texas Swing/OT @ the Cork & Keg

Weinhaus via AVLtoday ↗

The Laughing Lizards perform Cajun, Texas Swing, and old-time music at Weinhaus, offering a lively mix of regional styles in an indoor setting.

9 PM Live music

The Scribblers // Tentative Decisions // Tentative Decisions

Fleetwoods via AVLtoday ↗

The Scribblers and two Richmond bands share the stage at Fleetwoods for an alt/punk night featuring progressive rock and power pop.

9–11:15 PM On stage $20

Feral Friday Double Feature

Asheville Masonic Temple via AVLtoday ↗

The Asheville Film Festival presents a double feature of short films at the Asheville Masonic Temple, including 'Settlement' and 'Whole' in a late-night screening.

Saturday, August 22

9:30–10:45 AM Wellness Free for members (pre-registration re...

The Art of Presence: Meditation and Reflection in the Museum

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Join a guided meditation and walking practice through the Asheville Art Museum’s galleries, designed to foster presence and reflection in a quiet, contemplative setting.

11 AM–3 PM Food & markets Free

‘Playing with Pollinators’ Free Family Fun Day

Winding Stair Farm via ASAP ↗

Families are invited to Winding Stair Farm for a free day of kids’ activities, live music, face-painting, and learning about pollinators in a festive outdoor setting.

11 AM Live music $11.74

Blue Country Line Dance’s Giddy Up Brunch

Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event via The Grey Eagle ↗

Blue Country Line Dance hosts a brunch event at Grey Eagle Music Hall, combining country and hip-hop line dancing with brunch food and drinks in a lively indoor atmosphere.

1–4 PM Art & culture

Adult Studio: Embroidery on Paper

Asheville Art Museum via Asheville Art Museum ↗

Adults create mixed media art using embroidery, ink, and block printing in a studio session led by artist Julia Briggs at the Asheville Art Museum.

8 PM Live music

The Wood Brothers

The Orange Peel via The Orange Peel ↗

The Wood Brothers perform live at The Orange Peel, offering a night of roots-infused music for adult audiences.

8 PM Live music $16.06

54 Bicycles: Widespread Panic Preservation

Grey Eagle Music Hall – Special Event via The Grey Eagle ↗

54 Bicycles pays tribute to Widespread Panic’s classic sound in a high-energy, all-ages concert at Grey Eagle Music Hall.

8–11 PM Live music Free

DJ Night - DJ JG

After/Glow via AVLtoday ↗

DJ JG takes over After/Glow for a late-night electronic music set in a downtown Asheville venue with a vibrant, energetic atmosphere.

9–11:30 PM Live music

SUBTERRANEA w/ Pluto Events

DSSOLVR via AVLtoday ↗

SUBTERRANEA presents a music event featuring Pluto Events at DSSOLVR, with details to be announced.

10–11:30 PM On stage $18

Crushing It! Beer and Comedy

The River Arts District Brewing Company (RAD Brewing Co.) via AVLtoday ↗

A beer-themed comedy show at RAD Brewing Co.'s patio, where comedians drink a beer before performing, with a lively and messy vibe.

No dates needed

Always good in Asheville

Hand-picked by people who live here. These can’t go stale.

$13.95 adults / $9.95 kids 3-12

WNC Nature Center

East Asheville

A small, walkable zoo of Southern Appalachian wildlife — black bears, red wolves, otters, and the famous red pandas. The perfect half-day with kids; you'll see every animal without anyone melting down.

wildwnc.org ↗
$11.50 ages 3+

Asheville Museum of Science

Downtown

Compact hands-on science museum on Patton Avenue — fossils, gems, and interactive STEM exhibits sized for the under-10 crowd. Small enough that one rainy morning covers it all.

ashevillescience.org ↗
$25 parking per vehicle

North Carolina Arboretum

South Asheville (Bent Creek)

434 acres of cultivated gardens and easy trails off the Parkway, including a nationally known bonsai collection. The $25 fee is per car, not per person — pack the whole crew.

ncarboretum.org ↗
Free

Botanical Gardens at Asheville

North Asheville (UNCA)

Ten quiet acres of Southern Appalachian native plants along Reed Creek next to UNC Asheville. Free, stroller-friendly paths, and the spring wildflower show is one of the best in town.

ashevillebotanicalgarden.org ↗
Free

Carrier Park

West Asheville

Riverside park on the French Broad with the paved greenway running through it. The west side (playground, courts) is still rebuilding after Helene, but the east-side lawns, picnic shelter, and greenway are open.

ashevillenc.gov ↗
Free

Lake Julian Park

Arden (15 min)

County park on a 300-acre lake in Arden — playground, disc golf, fishing, and paddleboat rentals for a few bucks an hour. Free to enter and rarely crowded on weekdays.

buncombenc.gov ↗
$17 all-day play

Asheville Pinball Museum

Downtown

$17 buys unlimited play on about 40 pinball machines and 40 classic arcade games in the old Battery Park building. First-come, first-served and capped at 70 people, so go early on rainy weekends. Closed Tuesdays.

ashevillepinball.com ↗
Free

Pack Memorial Library

Downtown

Downtown's main library with an entire floor for kids — puppet stage, story times, and room to sprawl. The easiest free hour downtown with small children.

buncombenc.gov ↗
Free

Folk Art Center

East Asheville (Blue Ridge Parkway)

The Southern Highland Craft Guild's flagship on the Parkway — free galleries of serious Appalachian craft, with live demonstrations most of the year. Worth it even if you think you don't care about quilts.

southernhighlandguild.org ↗
Free

Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks

East & South Asheville access points

America's favorite drive runs right through town, free, with overlooks every few miles. Hop on at the Folk Art Center or Highway 191 and you're above the clouds in fifteen minutes.

nps.gov ↗
Free

DuPont State Recreational Forest

Cedar Mountain (50 min)

12,000-acre state forest where short, family-doable walks reach Hooker, Triple, and High Falls. The biggest waterfall payoff per mile of hiking in the region — worth the drive.

ncagr.gov ↗
Free

Catawba Falls

Old Fort (25 min)

Free trail to a 100-foot waterfall near Old Fort, rebuilt in 2024 with boardwalks, staircases, and overlooks. The lower falls are about 3 miles round trip — the closest big waterfall to Asheville.

fs.usda.gov ↗
Free

Bent Creek Experimental Forest

South Asheville (Bent Creek)

The locals' default trail network — miles of gentle forest-road loops around Lake Powhatan, ten minutes from West Asheville. Where Asheville kids learn to mountain bike.

fs.usda.gov ↗
$20 adults / $10 ages 6-17

Asheville Art Museum

Downtown (Pack Square)

Modern, light-filled museum on Pack Square focused on 20th-century and Appalachian American art, with a rooftop terrace. Kids under 6 are free, and the hands-on ArtPLAYce room buys you a real look at the galleries.

ashevilleart.org ↗
Free

River Arts District studios

River Arts District

Hundreds of working studios in old industrial buildings along the French Broad — walk in, watch artists work, buy straight from the source. Free to wander, and back in full swing after Helene.

riverartsdistrict.com ↗
Free

Grovewood Village

North Asheville

Historic craft campus tucked behind the Grove Park Inn — free gallery, sculpture garden, working studios, and an antique car museum (April through December). One of the quietest free outings in town.

grovewood.com ↗

Malaprop's Bookstore/Cafe

Downtown

Asheville's independent bookstore since 1982 — sharp staff picks, a proper kids' section, and a cafe for the duration. The default rainy-afternoon anchor downtown.

malaprops.com ↗

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Downtown (Pack Square)

The dessert institution on Pack Square: bean-to-bar truffles, sipping chocolate, and cake by the slice until late. Expect a line on weekends — it moves.

frenchbroadchocolates.com ↗

Highland Brewing Company

East Asheville

Asheville's original craft brewery, east of town, with a huge meadow, volleyball, disc golf, food trucks, and live music. The rare taproom where kids can actually burn off energy while you finish a pint.

highlandbrewing.com ↗

New Belgium Brewing

River Arts District

Riverfront campus on Craven Street with a big patio and lawn above the French Broad, brewery tours, and food trucks. Pairs easily with the River Arts District just across the river.

newbelgium.com ↗

Sierra Nevada Brewing (Mills River)

Mills River (25 min)

Destination brewery 25 minutes south near the airport — taproom restaurant, tours, a big back porch, an outdoor amphitheater with weekend music, and trails through the woods. Built for families; plan a whole afternoon.

sierranevada.com ↗
Free

Lake Tomahawk Park

Black Mountain (20 min)

Black Mountain's town lake with a half-mile walking loop, playground, ducks, and mountain views. Twenty easy minutes from Asheville and exactly the right size for short legs.

townofblackmountain.org ↗
Free

Asheville Urban Trail

Downtown

A free 1.7-mile self-guided loop through downtown, marked by 30 sculptures and plaques telling Asheville's story. Start at Pack Square; kids treat it like a scavenger hunt.

exploreasheville.com ↗

WNC Farmers Market

South Asheville (Brevard Rd)

Year-round state farmers market on Brevard Road — open daily with produce sheds, jams, mountain honey, and a greenhouse full of plants. Cheaper and less precious than the tailgate markets.

ncagr.gov ↗
Free

Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary

North Asheville

Audubon-managed wetland boardwalk on Beaver Lake in North Asheville, open dawn to dusk, 365 days a year. Free (donations welcome) and flat enough for toddlers — bring binoculars.

blueridgeaudubon.org ↗
$5 adults / $1 kids

Thomas Wolfe Memorial

Downtown

The rambling boardinghouse from Look Homeward, Angel, preserved downtown with guided tours on the half hour, Tuesday through Saturday. Five bucks for one of the best literary house tours in the South.

wolfememorial.com ↗

Lexington Glassworks

Downtown

Working glassblowing studio and gallery on South Lexington, where you can watch the team gather, shape, and fire molten glass seven days a week. Kids are mesmerized; so are you.

lexingtonglassworks.com ↗

The Hop Ice Cream

West Asheville (multiple locations)

Asheville's ice cream shop since 1978, now at five locations with serious vegan flavors alongside the dairy. The West Asheville shop on Haywood Road is the classic stop after a park morning.

hopicecreamnc.com ↗

Battery Park Book Exchange

Downtown (Grove Arcade)

Two floors of used books inside the historic Grove Arcade, served with champagne, wine, and coffee. Dog-friendly, date-friendly, and the most civilized rainy afternoon downtown.

batteryparkbookexchange.com ↗

Biltmore Estate

South Asheville (Biltmore Village)

America's largest home, plus acres of Olmsted-designed gardens, trails, and a winery tasting included with admission. Pricey, but it fills a full day — tickets run cheaper midweek.

biltmore.com ↗

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