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.

Thursday, January 30, 2025
Joe Gatto: Let’s Get Into It
Jan 30 @ 7:00 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Acclaimed comedian, actor and producer Joe Gatto—best known for the hit television shows “Impractical Jokers” and “The Misery Index”—is extending his Let’s Get Into It tour featuring all new material into 2025! Tickets for his 2025 dates are available via artist presale and local presales on Sept 5 at 10 A.M. local time and tickets go on sale to the public on Sept 6 at 10 A.M. local time. Tickets for all shows as well as post-show meet & greets will be available. More shows to be announced shortly. Comedian Mark Jigarjian will be on tour.

Sunday, February 2, 2025
*Assembly Required Designer Toy Expo
Feb 2 all-day
Battery Park Hall

Celebrating its seventh year running in 2025, the *Assembly Required Designer Toy Expo returns to Asheville, and it’s bigger than ever! With a record 50+ artists descending upon Downtown Asheville in February from 21 states including Colorado, South Dakota, Texas, Rhode Island, as well as Canada. As the premiere destination for independent designer, bootleg and art toy artists and collectors from across the North America, *Assembly Required honors this melting pot of artistic expression, inspired by pop culture and street art.

Saturday, February 1, 2025: 11a-5p
Sunday, February 2, 2025: 11a-4p

More information can be found at www.assembly-required.net

Parental discretion is advised.

Stars Servin’ Up Love
Feb 2 @ 10:00 am
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Stars Servin’ Up Love will welcome Andre AgassiAndy RoddickJessica PegulaEmma NavarroMichael KostaPete WentzJeff Probst, Esai Morales, and others to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville, N.C. for its celebrity tennis Hurricane Helene benefit for Western North Carolina on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025. 100% of net proceeds from the charity event (including direct donations from the event’s online auction and other opportunities) will be donated to local nonprofits including Always Asheville Fund, Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, and Asheville Tennis Association. Featured sponsors include Ingles Markets, Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos, and Ticketmaster. Presales through the United States Tennis Association and participating outlets begin on Monday, December 16 at 10:00 am ET, and public on-sale begins on Thursday, December 19 at 10:00 am ET. Tickets can be purchased at StarsServinUpLove.com.

Wednesday, February 5, 2025
Jeff Dunham: Artificial Intelligence
Feb 5 @ 7:00 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

A quick glance of Jeff Dunham’s childhood photos reveals the milestones of youth—birthdays, graduations, awkward first dates… very awkward first dates. Nothing unusual – except for the fact that in almost every photo, he’s joined by a dummy seated on his lap. Literally.

Friday, February 7, 2025
Tuckasegee River Excursion
Feb 7 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, NC

The Tuckasegee (tuck-uh-SEE-jee) River Excursion includes an 1 hour and 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro, where you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants, a brewery, and country inns. There is time to shop, snack, and visit the many unique shops before returning to Bryson City.
Blind Date Live
Feb 7 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

Asheville, are you ready to heat things up? Blind Date Live is back on February 7th—and this time, we’re moving to a new home, The Orange Peel! Get ready for a night where love is unscripted, unfiltered, and more than a little unpredictable.

Whether you’re single and ready to mingle or just there to see sparks fly, this is your chance to witness true love unfold in real time. Doors open at 6:30 PM, and we’re kicking things off with a sultry mixer from 7-8 PM to set the mood. Slip into the crowd, grab a drink, and who knows—you might just lock eyes with someone special. Or… maybe they’re just looking for the bathroom. How about that one? Oh, nope, they’re waving to their friend behind you. Awkward.

Then, at 8 PM, the real fun begins. Hosted by Donnie Rex Bishop and Cayla Clark, watch as real Asheville singles dive headfirst into live first dates onstage. Meanwhile, the fabulous Toni Brown will be our maître d’, making sure everything runs smoothly, and DJ Lil Meow Meow will be spinning tunes to keep the energy going all night long.

There might be fireworks, there WILL be intense oversharing, and you’ll be on the edge of your seat through it all. Don’t worry, though—the audience is strictly there to watch. No participation required.

This isn’t just another night out. It’s steamy, unpredictable, and full of moments you’ll never forget (and a few you might wish you could). Whether you’re here to watch romance bloom, relish in the awkward moments, or just soak up the perversion, Blind Date Live has you covered.

Saturday, February 8, 2025
Tuckasegee River Excursion
Feb 8 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, NC

The Tuckasegee (tuck-uh-SEE-jee) River Excursion includes an 1 hour and 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro, where you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants, a brewery, and country inns. There is time to shop, snack, and visit the many unique shops before returning to Bryson City.
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
The Real Bonhoeffer: Theology for Faith In Times of Crisis
Feb 12 @ 6:00 pm
First Baptist Church of Asheville

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) was a beloved pastor and theologian whose work has blessed countless people around the world. Christians especially have cherished his practical theology, approachable writing style, and prophetic vision. This Epiphany chapel study will engage Bonhoeffer’s works to help us learn how to be faithful in times of political and social upheaval.

YAMATO The Drummers of Japan
Feb 12 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

人の力 “Hito no Chikara” — The Power of Human Strength

Take a thrilling, high-energy ride through centuries of Japanese tradition, where heart-thumping rhythms explode from a dizzying display of more than 40 Taiko drums. The power of human strength, tenacity and sheer endurance lie at the heart of this new program, which challenges the influence of artificial intelligence on art. Back by popular demand, this troupe’s explosively percussive performances evoke “the pulse of the gods” (Neue Presse, Hanover, Germany) to prove there’s no substitute for the fire of the human spirit.

$65; Child (15 yrs. old and under) $22

Thursday, February 13, 2025
YAMATO The Drummers of Japan
Feb 13 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

人の力 “Hito no Chikara” — The Power of Human Strength

Take a thrilling, high-energy ride through centuries of Japanese tradition, where heart-thumping rhythms explode from a dizzying display of more than 40 Taiko drums. The power of human strength, tenacity and sheer endurance lie at the heart of this new program, which challenges the influence of artificial intelligence on art. Back by popular demand, this troupe’s explosively percussive performances evoke “the pulse of the gods” (Neue Presse, Hanover, Germany) to prove there’s no substitute for the fire of the human spirit.

$65; Child (15 yrs. old and under) $22

Friday, February 14, 2025
Tuckasegee River Excursion
Feb 14 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, NC

The Tuckasegee (tuck-uh-SEE-jee) River Excursion includes an 1 hour and 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro, where you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants, a brewery, and country inns. There is time to shop, snack, and visit the many unique shops before returning to Bryson City.
Tainted Love Comedy Show Hosted by Cayla Clark and Ryan Gordon
Feb 14 @ 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
The Montford Rooftop Bar

Montford Rooftop Bar and Blind Date Live are thrilled to bring you a Valentine’s Day filled with laughter, love, and a touch of playful chaos!
Join comedians Ryan Gordon and Cayla Clark for an unforgettable evening of stand-up comedy, audience interaction (don’t worry, they’ll be gentle!), and enough sizzling romance to light up the Asheville skyline. PLUS! Enjoy retro cocktails, Valentine’s Day menu specials, throwback tunes, and more all night long.
Part comedy showcase, part interactive fun, this show promises to deliver big laughs and unique moments that will make your Valentine’s Day one to remember—whether you’re coupled up, flying solo, or somewhere in between. Come for the jokes, stay for the chemistry, and leave with a smile (and maybe some new inside jokes).

TWO COMEDY SHOWINGS: 6 PM & 9 PM
Reserve your spot now—seating is limited, and love waits for no one! Tickets do not include food or beverage. Portion of the proceeds will benefit local charity, Asheville Poverty Initiative.

TICKETS: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tainted-love-comedy-show-hosted-by-cayla-clark-and-ryan-gordon-tickets-1200495497349?aff=oddtdtcreator

Martin Lawrence
Feb 14 @ 8:00 pm
Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Comedian Martin Lawrence will take the stage at Bon Secours Wellness Arena this Valentine’s Day with special guests Benji Brown & Daphnique Springs.
Tickets are available at the GSP International Airport Box Office located at the arena from the on sale through show day while supplies last. Box Office hours vary but we are generally open M-F 10AM-2PM.

Saturday, February 15, 2025
Tuckasegee River Excursion
Feb 15 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, NC

The Tuckasegee (tuck-uh-SEE-jee) River Excursion includes an 1 hour and 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro, where you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants, a brewery, and country inns. There is time to shop, snack, and visit the many unique shops before returning to Bryson City.
Sunday, February 16, 2025
Tuckasegee River Excursion
Feb 16 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, NC

The Tuckasegee (tuck-uh-SEE-jee) River Excursion includes an 1 hour and 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro, where you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants, a brewery, and country inns. There is time to shop, snack, and visit the many unique shops before returning to Bryson City.
Jeeves Saves the Day
Feb 16 @ 12:00 am – 2:00 pm
North Carolina Stage Company

Once again, Bertie finds himself suffering the slings and arrows of misfortune at the hands of his relatives, caught between his fierce Aunt Agatha, his plaintive cousin Egbert, a saucy jazz singer, and his future father-in-law. Another priceless predicament calling upon the redoubtable Jeeves to save the day.

Frostbite 5k, 10k, and 1 Mile Fun Run
Feb 16 @ 1:45 pm – 4:00 pm
Lelia Patterson Center

For over 32 years, the Frostbite Races have motivated runners and walkers to stay active throughout the colder winter months. Participants brave the chilly temperatures to compete in a series of races, including a challenging 10K, a scenic 5K, or 1-mile fun run. Flurry the Penguin is always encouraging runners and walkers with high fives. The Family Fun Day and Wellness Expo add to the excitement with local vendors, wellness services, live music, and kid’s activities. The Frostbite Races have become a beloved tradition in Fletcher, NC, bringing the community together for a day of fitness and fun.

Solstice: a Winter Circus Experience
Feb 16 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Wortham Center for the Arts

This 75-minute production tells the story of a character who has lost her inner light, plunging into a wondrous and surreal world where memories come to life and the ordinary becomes ‘extra’ordinary. With over 8 breathtaking acrobatic acts, “Solstice” combines light design, costumes, enchanting music, surreal scenery, and the magic of falling snow to create this celebration of the human spirit. A blend of local and national artists comprise the cast of seven.

Wednesday, February 19, 2025
The Real Bonhoeffer: Theology for Faith In Times of Crisis
Feb 19 @ 6:00 pm
First Baptist Church of Asheville

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) was a beloved pastor and theologian whose work has blessed countless people around the world. Christians especially have cherished his practical theology, approachable writing style, and prophetic vision. This Epiphany chapel study will engage Bonhoeffer’s works to help us learn how to be faithful in times of political and social upheaval.

Rory Scovel and Friends
Feb 19 @ 7:30 pm
Wortham Center for Performing Arts

Asheville Comedy Festival presents A WNC Benefit Show with comedian Rory Scovel and Friends. February 19, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

A WNC Benefit Show with comedian Rory Scovel and friends presented by Asheville Comedy Festival. Rory Scovel is an actor, comedian, and writer. His latest comedy special RORY SCOVEL: RELIGION, SEX, AND A FEW THINGS IN BETWEEN released in February, 2024 on MAX to rave reviews. Joining the lineup are local comedy sensations Hilliary Begley and Cayla Clark. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch this hysterical event benefiting the local businesses of Asheville affected by Helene!

Friday, February 21, 2025
Tuckasegee River Excursion
Feb 21 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, NC

The Tuckasegee (tuck-uh-SEE-jee) River Excursion includes an 1 hour and 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro, where you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants, a brewery, and country inns. There is time to shop, snack, and visit the many unique shops before returning to Bryson City.
Saturday, February 22, 2025
Tuckasegee River Excursion
Feb 22 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, NC

The Tuckasegee (tuck-uh-SEE-jee) River Excursion includes an 1 hour and 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro, where you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants, a brewery, and country inns. There is time to shop, snack, and visit the many unique shops before returning to Bryson City.
Sunday, February 23, 2025
Southern Rodeo Association
Feb 23 all-day
NC Agriculture Center

The 50th Southern Finals Rodeo will be held February 21-23, 2025 (3 performances) in Asheville NC (Fletcher) at the WNC Agricultural Center.

Wee Trade Children’s Consignment Sale
Feb 23 all-day
NC Agriculture Center

Kiddos are expensive! Their stuff doesn’t have to be! Shop for your entire season’s worth of clothing and toys all in one place with Wee Trade! You are certain to find exactly what your are looking for!

Wednesday, February 26, 2025
The Real Bonhoeffer: Theology for Faith In Times of Crisis
Feb 26 @ 6:00 pm
First Baptist Church of Asheville

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) was a beloved pastor and theologian whose work has blessed countless people around the world. Christians especially have cherished his practical theology, approachable writing style, and prophetic vision. This Epiphany chapel study will engage Bonhoeffer’s works to help us learn how to be faithful in times of political and social upheaval.

Thursday, February 27, 2025
Delight: A Countercultural Force of Resistance
Feb 27 @ 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Asheville High School Auditorium

Ross Gay is interested in joy.
Ross Gay wants to understand joy.
Ross Gay is curious about joy.
Ross Gay studies joy.
Something like that.

Ross Gay — Poet, Essayist, & National Book Critics Circle Award Winner — will visit ACS with a profound mission: to explore and understand joy.

Ross Gay is the author of four books of poetry: Against Which; Bringing the Shovel Down; Be Holding, winner of the PEN American Literary Jean Stein Award; and Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude, winner of the 2015 National Book Critics Circle Award and the 2016 Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award. In addition to his poetry, Ross has released three collections of essays— The Book of Delights was released in 2019 and was a New York Times bestseller; Inciting Joy was released in 2022, and his newest collection, The Book of (More) Delights was released in September of 2023.

Friday, February 28, 2025
Tuckasegee River Excursion
Feb 28 all-day
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, NC

The Tuckasegee (tuck-uh-SEE-jee) River Excursion includes an 1 hour and 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro, where you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants, a brewery, and country inns. There is time to shop, snack, and visit the many unique shops before returning to Bryson City.
The Comedy of Errors
Feb 28 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for Performing Arts

Wortham Presents The Acting Company presents The Comedy of Errors

Written by William Shakespeare
Adapted by Christina Anderson
Directed by Devin Brain

Friday, February 28, 2025 at 8 p.m.

In the Mediterranean city of Ephesus, two sets of identical twins — both separated from their other halves at birth — unknowingly cross paths, and chaos, mishaps and misunderstandings abound. Experience the joy and hilarity of one of Shakespeare’s earliest plays, a slapstick comedy about mistaken identities, through a new and contemporary lens: a 21st century translation that reinterprets antiquated slang, metaphor and double entendre with updated jokes and clever, modern wordplay. 

Connect with the art and artists in pre-show discussions.

Saturday, March 1, 2025
Camp Connect
Mar 1 all-day
Blue Ridge Mall

Calling all organizations! Join us for Camp Connect and help families gear up for an unforgettable summer. Whether your specialty is outdoor adventures, educational fun, arts and crafts, or action-packed sports, we want you to be part of this exciting event!

Thursday, March 6, 2025
Ingles Socon Basketball Championship
Mar 6 all-day
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

The road to the NCAA Final Four starts in Asheville. Don’t miss this opportunity to see some of the nation’s best conference tournament action as the Ingles Southern Conference Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships will take place March 6-10, 2025 at Harrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville in downtown. SoCon Tournament week has become an annual rite of spring in the Asheville community. Enjoy spending time in a city you’ve heard so much about. With excellent restaurants, breweries, shopping and activities, Asheville is a city with something for everyone.

In partnership with Explore Asheville, the Southern Conference is directing a portion of premium level ticket sales to the Always Asheville Fund, an emergency grant program supporting small, independent travel and hospitality businesses as they recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene. Additionally, there will be numerous onsite giving opportunities for fans.