Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Sunday, January 14, 2024
Who Let the Dogs Out Costume Contest
Jan 14 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Bold Rock Hard Cider - Mills River, NC

Who Let the Dogs Out Costume Contest, 1-5pm, Grab your pup and join Bold Rock in Mills River and celebrate “National Dress
Up Your Dog Day” Costume contest. There will be a local dog-trainer on-site to help host, along with dog-inspired giveaways,
prizes for the winners, and live music from Stephen Evans at 1pm,

Saturday, January 20, 2024
P U R R T H D A Y P A W T Y
Jan 20 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Ginger's Revenge - South Slope Lounge

Benefitting TrapKing Humane Cat Solutions
Fundraiser & Silent Auction, Music
Performances, Cat Clicker-Training, & More!
Join us for the purrfect, cat-filled evening!

Saturday, January 27, 2024
Coloring with Cats: Kiddie Edition
Jan 27 @ 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm
House of Black Cat Magic
There are many scientific studies that support the understanding that petting cats and coloring relieves stress and anxiety. So why not do both?
School is back in session and we know that can be stressful for everyone, but especially the students! There are many scientific studies that support the understanding that petting cats and coloring relieves stress and anxiety. So why not do both? Coloring books and markers (and of course, cats) are provided for this relaxing artistic session. And once everyone is done with their picture, you can choose to take it home or hang it on the altar in the shop for Bastet! Tickets are $15 per child + 1 adult and admission goes directly to the care of our resident panthers. Children ages 13 and under are welcome to this event! (We also have an adults-only event so head to our calendar if you’re looking for that one) Parents please keep in mind that this is meant to be calm and relaxing for all attendees and cat lounge rules need to be followed by all attendees.
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Affordable Pet Care Clinic
Feb 14 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Asheville Humane Society
We are hosting an Affordable Pet Care Clinic on February 14th from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at 55 Adams Hill Road with Unete and PAWS. Clients will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis, and services are cash only. FREE clinic services for Emma and Deaverview residents with proof of address (such as utility bill or ID).
Feline Vaccines
Rabies 1yr/3yr – $10.00 (3 year must have proof of previous vaccine with client)
FVRCP/FELV – $20.00
FVRCP – $15.00
FELV – $15.00
Canine Vaccines
Rabies 1yr/3yr – $10.00 (3 year must have proof of previous vaccine with client)
DAPP – $15.00
DHLPP – $15.00
Lyme – $20.00
Bordetella – $15.00
Brief Exam: $35.00
*Flea/tick and dewormer available
Friday, February 23, 2024
Understanding + Managing Periodontal Disease in Pets
Feb 23 @ 8:00 am – 6:30 pm
online

Join Dr. Barden Greenfield for an informative webinar that will equip you with the knowledge and skills to effectively identify and manage pet periodontal disease in its varying stages. Periodontal disease is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects the oral health of our beloved pets. In this class, we will delve deep into understanding the causes, symptoms, and consequences of periodontal disease in pets. Have questions for the expert? You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions and get personalized advice from Dr. Greenfield at our Live Q+A at the end of the presentation.

Can’t attend the class? You will still receive the recording if you register. Sign up today at: https://hfu.hollywoodfeed.com/live-event-page/understanding-managing-periodontal-disease-in-pets/

ABOUT THE PRESENTER: Dr. Barden Greenfield is a 1985 graduate of Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He became a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) after completing a non-conforming dental residency in 2010. He has a dental referral specialty practice (Your Pet Dentist) in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Greenfield previously served on the AVDC board for multiple years and was President of the College from 2016-2018. He is currently a Board Member of the Foundation for Veterinary Dentistry. He was the recipient of the prestigious AVDC Peter Emily Service Award in 2017 and AVDC President’s Award for Stewardship in 2020.

 

Dr. Greenfield is also a veterinary dental educator, lecturing both nationally and internationally.

ABOUT HOLLYWOOD FEED: Hollywood Feed serves pets, their owners, caretakers and communities in 170 stores across 19 states. Consistently ranking atop consumer choice awards in the markets it serves, Hollywood Feed and its family of brands have been named to Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers for 2022 (ranking #1 in the pet care category), Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Customer Service for 2024, Best Pet Supply Stores by Dallas A-List, Best Pet Store by The Memphis Flyer, Best Self Atlanta Magazine’s Best Pet Store, Best Pet Food and Supplies in the Best of Denton County Awards, and Best New Business by Cary Living Magazine in North Carolina. Hollywood Feed proudly stands by its brand promise: If your pet doesn’t love it or if you don’t love it, we will gladly replace or refund it. Learn more about Hollywood Feed at hollywoodfeed.com and facebook.com/hwfeed.

Thursday, March 14, 2024
Military Appreciation Night: Carolina Hurricanes vs. Florida Panthers
Mar 14 @ 7:00 pm
PNC Arena

Join the Hurricanes as we honor servicemen and women from all branches of the military and thank them for their service and commitment to our country. Presented by Navy Federal Credit Union.

Join the Hurricanes as we honor servicemen and women from all branches of the military and thank them for their service and commitment to our country. Presented by Navy Federal Credit Union.

Sunday, March 17, 2024
🍀St. Patrick’s Day Splash at Wagbar!🍀
Mar 17 @ 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Wagbar

This St. Patrick’s Day, Wagbar is not just about the green on land but also about the joy in water! Alongside our festive celebration with wine slushies, drink specials, and delicious food from Trucking Delicious, we’re excited to announce a special treat: our dog swimming pool will be open for one day only before its full-time opening this summer!

Here’s what’s brewing for the day:
– **Wine Slushee Return**: Our beloved Wine Slushees are back for the day. Don’t miss out on this crowd-pleaser!
– **St. Patrick’s Day Drink Specials**: Enjoy themed drink specials all-day to keep the spirits high.
– **Annual Membership Raffle**: Drop by and get entered for a chance to win a year full of unforgettable Wagbar adventures.
– **Food by Trucking Delicious**: From 2:30 PM to 7 PM, indulge in the best eats on wheels.
– **Free Entry for All**: In the spirit of inclusivity, entry is free for both dogs and humans. Come one, come all!
– **Exclusive Pool Preview**: Dive into fun with our dog swimming pool, open exclusively for this St. Patrick’s Day. Get a sneak peek before it opens full time in the summer.

**Entry Requirements for Pooches**:
– Must be spayed and 6 months or older.
– Up-to-date on rabies, distemper, and bordetella vaccines. (Show proof of vaccinations on entry.)

Dress in your festive best, bring your furry friends, and make a splash this St. Patrick’s Day at Wagbar. It’s the perfect place to experience joy, community, and a little luck of the Irish – both on land and in water. Don’t miss this chance to soak up the fun before our pool opens for the entire summer season!

Let’s celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a splash, laughter, and wagging tails. See you and your four-legged companions for a day to remember!

Saturday, March 23, 2024
Dog Eggstravaganza
Mar 23 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Buncombe County Sports Park’s dog park

Dog Eggstravaganza: Kicking off the 2024 event calendar is the Dog Eggstravaganza, which will be taking place at Buncombe County Sports Park’s dog park on March 23 at 12 p.m. This event will offer some springtime fun for our four-legged friends, and will consist of a small and large dog division. Each division will have approximately 30 minutes to find as many hidden eggs (filled with treats) as possible. In addition to hidden treats, dogs who collect the most eggs will receive a special prize. While admission is free, pre-registration is required as there are limited spots available. Registration opens on March 4 and closes March 20.

Doggie Eggstravaganza
Mar 23 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Buncombe County Sports Park’s dog park

 

Kicking off our 2024 event calendar is the Dog Eggstravaganza, which will be taking place at Buncombe County Sports Park’s dog park on March 23 at 12 p.m. This event will offer some springtime fun for our four-legged friends and will consist of small and large dog divisions. Each division will have approximately 30 minutes to find as many hidden eggs (filled with treats) as possible. In addition to hidden treats, dogs who collect the most eggs will receive a special prize. While admission is free, pre-registration is required as there are limited spots available. Registration opens Monday, March 4. Pre-register here.

Thursday, March 28, 2024
Brothers + Sisters Like These: Stories of Healing
Mar 28 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Black Mountain Library

Presented by North Carolina Veterans Writing Alliance Foundation, Inc. Hear veterans’ stories of healing. Free.
No registration is required.

Sunday, April 21, 2024
Tail Chaser 250
Apr 21 all-day
Deerwoode Reserve

Get revved up for best weekend of the year! Join us for the Tail Chaser 250, where you will experience an epic “ride at your own pace” dual sport adventure ride on the best scenic paved, gravel, and back roads in the Southeast. This in-person event is an absolute must for anyone who loves being on the motorcycle, hanging out with good people, and enjoying the beauty of the open road.

We’ll be returning to Deerwoode Reserve, situated along the French Broad River, just outside Brevard, NC, where we’ll gather for meals together in their new event pavilion, enjoy the property’s beauty, and stay both Friday and Saturday nights. We’ll be able to spread out in wide open fields for camping and cabins available for rent, and enjoy the view beyond.

Join Eurosport Asheville and the entire adventure motorcycle community to help raise essential funds for Muddy Sneakers and the Veterans Healing Farm. It’s an honor to donate 100% of the proceeds of Tail Chaser 250 to these organizations doing important work in our communities. We really appreciate your support!

So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to immerse yourself in a weekend of adventure and being a part of the motorcycle community. The Tail Chaser 250 is waiting for you – suit up and prepare for the best weekend of the year!

Friday, May 10, 2024
Free Microchip Event
May 10 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
ASPCA Spay/Neuter Alliance
Join the ASPCA, Asheville Humane Society and Brother Wolf Animal Rescue on May 10th for another successful free microchipping event at the ASPCA Spay/Neuter Alliance! From 9:00 am-12:00pm, cats and dogs will receive free microchips and pet owners can receive valuable resources to ensure the safety of their pets.
Please register in advance at the following link: https://clinichq.com/…/f4e304dd-8a36-4935-a4b2…. Walk-ins will be accepted based on availability. Each furry friend will receive a tag for their collar/harness featuring a QR code, enabling swift reunification with their owner in case they go missing.
With Memorial Day and the summer season approaching, the risk of pets going missing increases. Barbecues, open windows, people coming in and out of the house, and loud fireworks can lead to pets getting lost. A microchip ensures that should you need it, your pet will be easily recognized, and reunification will be streamlined, avoiding the shelter altogether.
*please make sure you have a leash for your dog and a carrier for your cat.
Saturday, May 25, 2024
3RD ANNUAL VETERANS RESOURCE FAIR
May 25 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Veterans Healing Farm
Our 3rd Annual Veterans Resource Fair open to the public. Come out to the farm have a great time, eat some good food, listen to some amazing music, and meet these wonderful organizations that give back to the veterans community! AARP Appalachian Dog Training, LLC Aura Home Brothers and Sisters Like These CenterWell Home Health Congressman Chuck Edwards Council on Aging Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 14 Eagle Rock Camp Equinox Ranch Healing The Hole Collective Heart of Horse Sense Lighthouse Collective Foundation Man With A Horse Project Military Working Dog Heritage Museum Mission 22 MOAA of Westeren North Carolina Mothers of Veteran Suicide Mountain Vista Recovery Patient Advocacy Charles George VA PGA Hope Pisgah Legal Post-9/11 Military 2 Charles George VA Project Healing Waters Soldiers Angels Sugar Bear Foundation The Self-Regulation Station Therapeutic Cuddling : HoldmeAVL Unbroken Spirit VA Innovation Program Charles George VA Veterans Healing Farm Veterans Services of the Carolinas VFW Hendersonville WADO Studios Warrior Canine Connection Warriors at Ease Whole Health Charles George VA FOOD TRUCKS (suggest not eating at least 2 days before so you can gorge yourself from these delicious mobile chefs) North Meets South Dreadlife Kitchen Allie’s Sweet Treats BANDS (amazing, super talented artists) Rooster Hope Griffin

 

Monday, May 27, 2024
Memorial Day Services Caravan
May 27 @ 9:00 am
Forest Lawn Memorial Park

Presser Memorial Day Services Hendersonville

for more info.

 2024 Memorial Day

Tuesday, June 11, 2024
Veterans Writing Classes: Brothers and Sisters Like These
Jun 11 @ 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
East Asheville Public Library

In 2014, a group of Vietnam combat veterans began meeting at the Charles George VA Hospital in Asheville to participate in a unique creative writing program. The focus was capturing their stories through essays and poetry to find the voices war had taken from them. The hope was to reclaim a sense of their shared humanity, build camaraderie and find some degree of healing.

To continue this work, the NC Veterans Writing Alliance Foundation will be offering free creative writing classes at the East Asheville Library in June and July. The goal is to provide healing through the art of creative writing to all veterans in our community.

Join other veterans for this series of classes on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. from June 11-July 30 at the East Asheville library. To sign up, please e-mail Ron Toler at [email protected].

Saturday, June 15, 2024
Second Gear’s 20th Anniversary Block Party
Jun 15 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Second Gear

Second Gear Celebrates 20 Years of Community and Consigned Outdoor Gear + Apparel on Saturday June 15th with an all day MEGA SALE (biggest of the year!) and a celebratory 20th Anniversary Block Party from Noon-5pm with exciting Raffles, Free Kids Activities, Local Makers, Outdoor Vendors + Educators, Sweet + Savory Treats, Puppy Adoptions and more… Stop by for the savings and stay for the fun as Second Gear says THANK YOU to their beloved WNC community for all the support in making it to this amazing milestone!

Tuesday, June 18, 2024
Veterans Writing Classes: Brothers and Sisters Like These
Jun 18 @ 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
East Asheville Public Library

In 2014, a group of Vietnam combat veterans began meeting at the Charles George VA Hospital in Asheville to participate in a unique creative writing program. The focus was capturing their stories through essays and poetry to find the voices war had taken from them. The hope was to reclaim a sense of their shared humanity, build camaraderie and find some degree of healing.

To continue this work, the NC Veterans Writing Alliance Foundation will be offering free creative writing classes at the East Asheville Library in June and July. The goal is to provide healing through the art of creative writing to all veterans in our community.

Join other veterans for this series of classes on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. from June 11-July 30 at the East Asheville library. To sign up, please e-mail Ron Toler at [email protected].

Tuesday, June 25, 2024
Veterans Writing Classes: Brothers and Sisters Like These
Jun 25 @ 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
East Asheville Public Library

In 2014, a group of Vietnam combat veterans began meeting at the Charles George VA Hospital in Asheville to participate in a unique creative writing program. The focus was capturing their stories through essays and poetry to find the voices war had taken from them. The hope was to reclaim a sense of their shared humanity, build camaraderie and find some degree of healing.

To continue this work, the NC Veterans Writing Alliance Foundation will be offering free creative writing classes at the East Asheville Library in June and July. The goal is to provide healing through the art of creative writing to all veterans in our community.

Join other veterans for this series of classes on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. from June 11-July 30 at the East Asheville library. To sign up, please e-mail Ron Toler at [email protected].

Friday, June 28, 2024
RANGER
Jun 28 @ 7:00 pm
Gunter Theatre

RANGER is a true tale of war seen through the lens of a Special Operations soldier, Sgt. David Waterhouse, in Iraq and Afghanistan. This first-hand account documents the brutality of combat and the raw nature of killing and death. It’s a journey of innocence lost, and the scars of war etched into the minds of service members. An untold account everyone should hear.

The Ranger Creed states that, “I accept the fact that as a Ranger my country expects me to move further, faster and fight harder than other soldier.”

After the release of RANGER, Further Faster Harder Foundation was created to give veterans a platform to tell their stories and find their purpose and voice again through documentaries, books, art, podcasts, and many other avenues.

Friday, June 28th marks the 19-year anniversary of the largest loss of Special Operations life since the Vietnam War. This event honors the memories of the 19 men who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

We want to welcome everyone to join us in our First Charity Screening and Silent Auction to help give Voices to Vets.

Saturday, June 29, 2024
Music Night at the Farm – The Infringements
Jun 29 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Veterans Healing Farm
Come out to the Veterans Healing Farm and listen to music by The Infringements!
Monday, July 1, 2024
Blue Ridge Humane Society Zero adoption fee: First responders and educators
Jul 1 @ 7:02 pm – 8:02 pm
The Blue Ridge Humane Society

Blue Ridge Humane Society (BRHS) has announced they are
expanding their zero adoption fee promotions to include first responders and education professionals.
These two populations join veterans, and those participating in the seniors for seniors program, who can
adopt from BRHS and pay no adoption fees.
First responders are defined as firefighters, law enforcement personnel, medical personnel, utility
workers and public health professionals. Education professionals include teachers and administrators
who are working in both public and private school sectors.
“We recognize the critically-important work of those on the front lines of public health and safety and
those who serve as educators,” said BRHS Executive Director Angela Prodrick. “Having a pet is proven to
reduce depression, stress and anxiety and provide emotional support,” Prodrick noted. “The comfort of
an animal can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder,” she
added.
Adoptable pets can be viewed on the BRHS web page at https://www.blueridgehumane.org/adopt.
Proof of employment or volunteer card is needed to receive the discount.
The Blue Ridge Humane Society, Inc., is a 501(c)3 animal welfare organization started in 1950 and
dedicated to ensuring the highest quality of life for animals in Henderson County and our neighboring
communities. BRHS cares for pets awaiting adoption at the Adoption Center; offers low-cost vaccine
clinics, animal education programs, pet training classes, and youth education and projects; coordinates
community pet food assistance, emergency vet assistance, and the Spay Neuter Incentive Program
(SNIP), which is a collaboration with Henderson County, the City of Hendersonville, and the Henderson
County Animal Services Center.
If you believe in our cause, consider donating or learning how to volunteer by visiting the Blue Ridge
Humane Society’s website at www.blueridgehumane.org or call (828) 692-2639.

Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Veterans Writing Classes: Brothers and Sisters Like These
Jul 2 @ 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
East Asheville Public Library

In 2014, a group of Vietnam combat veterans began meeting at the Charles George VA Hospital in Asheville to participate in a unique creative writing program. The focus was capturing their stories through essays and poetry to find the voices war had taken from them. The hope was to reclaim a sense of their shared humanity, build camaraderie and find some degree of healing.

To continue this work, the NC Veterans Writing Alliance Foundation will be offering free creative writing classes at the East Asheville Library in June and July. The goal is to provide healing through the art of creative writing to all veterans in our community.

Join other veterans for this series of classes on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. from June 11-July 30 at the East Asheville library. To sign up, please e-mail Ron Toler at [email protected].

Tuesday, July 9, 2024
Veterans Writing Classes: Brothers and Sisters Like These
Jul 9 @ 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
East Asheville Public Library

In 2014, a group of Vietnam combat veterans began meeting at the Charles George VA Hospital in Asheville to participate in a unique creative writing program. The focus was capturing their stories through essays and poetry to find the voices war had taken from them. The hope was to reclaim a sense of their shared humanity, build camaraderie and find some degree of healing.

To continue this work, the NC Veterans Writing Alliance Foundation will be offering free creative writing classes at the East Asheville Library in June and July. The goal is to provide healing through the art of creative writing to all veterans in our community.

Join other veterans for this series of classes on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. from June 11-July 30 at the East Asheville library. To sign up, please e-mail Ron Toler at [email protected].

Tuesday, July 16, 2024
Veterans Writing Classes: Brothers and Sisters Like These
Jul 16 @ 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
East Asheville Public Library

In 2014, a group of Vietnam combat veterans began meeting at the Charles George VA Hospital in Asheville to participate in a unique creative writing program. The focus was capturing their stories through essays and poetry to find the voices war had taken from them. The hope was to reclaim a sense of their shared humanity, build camaraderie and find some degree of healing.

To continue this work, the NC Veterans Writing Alliance Foundation will be offering free creative writing classes at the East Asheville Library in June and July. The goal is to provide healing through the art of creative writing to all veterans in our community.

Join other veterans for this series of classes on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. from June 11-July 30 at the East Asheville library. To sign up, please e-mail Ron Toler at [email protected].

Tuesday, July 23, 2024
Veterans Writing Classes: Brothers and Sisters Like These
Jul 23 @ 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
East Asheville Public Library

In 2014, a group of Vietnam combat veterans began meeting at the Charles George VA Hospital in Asheville to participate in a unique creative writing program. The focus was capturing their stories through essays and poetry to find the voices war had taken from them. The hope was to reclaim a sense of their shared humanity, build camaraderie and find some degree of healing.

To continue this work, the NC Veterans Writing Alliance Foundation will be offering free creative writing classes at the East Asheville Library in June and July. The goal is to provide healing through the art of creative writing to all veterans in our community.

Join other veterans for this series of classes on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. from June 11-July 30 at the East Asheville library. To sign up, please e-mail Ron Toler at [email protected].

Tuesday, July 30, 2024
Veterans Writing Classes: Brothers and Sisters Like These
Jul 30 @ 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
East Asheville Public Library

In 2014, a group of Vietnam combat veterans began meeting at the Charles George VA Hospital in Asheville to participate in a unique creative writing program. The focus was capturing their stories through essays and poetry to find the voices war had taken from them. The hope was to reclaim a sense of their shared humanity, build camaraderie and find some degree of healing.

To continue this work, the NC Veterans Writing Alliance Foundation will be offering free creative writing classes at the East Asheville Library in June and July. The goal is to provide healing through the art of creative writing to all veterans in our community.

Join other veterans for this series of classes on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. from June 11-July 30 at the East Asheville library. To sign up, please e-mail Ron Toler at [email protected].

Sunday, October 13, 2024
Wooftop Party at the Radical!
Oct 13 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
The Radical

The Wooftop Party is a fun yappy hour for dog owners. With sweater weather here, it’s the perfect time for guests & their pups to enjoy The Roof. Botanical Bones will offer dog treats to keep tails wagging all night, and Mountain Pet Rescue will have adoptable dogs in search of their forever homes.

Saturday, October 19, 2024
Fourth Annual Pup Crawl
Oct 19 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
7th Avenue Historic Area

Blue Ridge Humane Society (BRHS) invites the community to participate in their 4th Annual Historic 7th Avenue District Pup Crawl, presented by Hunter Subaru, on Saturday, October 19th, from 12-5 pm. Participants will purchase “Pawsports” and enjoy a pet giveaway
or treat and a unique pet-themed activity at participating dog-friendly food and beverage businesses, earning stamps at each stop for a chance to win a grand prize.

Pawsports are available on the BRHS website, https://www.blueridgehumane.org/get-involved/events/pupcrawl or by calling (828) 692-2639 ext. 304.

Saturday, December 7, 2024
4th Annual Historic 7th Avenue District Pup Crawl Paw-liday Edition
Dec 7 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Blue Ridge Humane Society (BRHS) invites the community to participate in their 4th Annual Historic 7th Avenue District Pup Crawl Paw-liday Edition, presented by Hunter Subaru, on Saturday, December 7th, from 12-5 pm. Participants will purchase “Pawsports” and
enjoy a pet giveaway or treat and a unique pet-themed activity at participating dog-friendly food and beverage businesses, earning stamps at each stop for a chance to win a grand prize.

The event, originally scheduled for October 19th but postponed due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, will now have a holiday theme with a new activity for pets and pet owners: photos with Santa. Pet owners are asked to bring their own cameras. The Brandy Bar + Cocktails, Celtic Creamery, Guidon Brewing Co., M&T Distilling, Southern Appalachian Brewery and White Duck Taco Shop are the host businesses participating in Pup Crawl. The community is encouraged to support these businesses by purchasing food, drinks and/or gift cards regardless of whether they have a Pawsport.

Pawsports are $20 for one dog and $40 for 2 or more dogs from the same household, if purchased by December 4th. After that date, Pawsports can only be purchased on the day of the event and pricing increases to $30 for one dog and $50 for 2 or more dogs from the same household. Human-only Pawsports can be purchased for the same price that will allow participants to collect all six stamps and
be entered into the grand prize drawing. Dogs must be leashed at all times and current on vaccinations. Event will be held rain or shine.

Pawsports are available on the BRHS website, https://www.blueridgehumane.org/get-
involved/events/pupcrawl or by calling (828) 692-2639 ext. 304.

Saturday, February 22, 2025
22nd annual Business of Farming Conference
Feb 22 @ 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Blue Ridge Community College

The 22nd annual Business of Farming Conference, presented by ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project), will be held Feb. 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The conference will take place at Blue Ridge Community College in Flat Rock, Henderson County, NC—which is a location change from A-B Tech, as originally announced. The A-B Tech Conference Center is undergoing repairs after serving as a disaster relief location during Hurricane Helene.

The conference focuses on the business side of farming, offering beginning and established farmers financial, legal, operational, and marketing tools to improve farm businesses and make professional connections. This year’s conference will also have a strong emphasis on resilience planning and resources for post-Helene recovery. More than a dozen workshops will be led by innovative farmers and specialists, including You Can’t Do It All: Hiring and Keeping a Productive Team and Planning for Farm Resiliency. A full list of workshops is at asapconnections.org.

Registration is now open at asapconnections.org. The cost is $75 by Feb. 1 and $95 after, with a discount for farm partners registering together. Scholarships are available for limited-resource and BIPOC farmers. The registration price includes a locally sourced breakfast and lunch. Lunch is sponsored by Farm Burger.

Support for the conference is provided in part by Dogwood Health Trust, NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture.