Calendar of Events
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.
Asheville Junior Theater Presents Shrek JR.
April 5, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
April 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Everyone’s favorite ogre is back in this hilarious stage spectacle based on the Oscar-winning smash hit film and outrageous Broadway musical! It’s a “big bright beautiful world” as Shrek leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part reimagining of traditional fairy tales, Shrek JR. is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for the whole family.
Once upon a time, in a far away swamp, there lived an ogre named Shrek. One day, Shrek finds his swamp invaded by banished fairytale misfits who have been cast off by Lord Farquaad, a tiny terror with big ambitions. When Shrek sets off with a wisecracking donkey to confront Farquaad, he’s handed a task — if he rescues feisty princess Fiona, his swamp will be righted. Shrek tries to win Fiona’s love and vanquish Lord Farquaad, but a fairytale wouldn’t be complete without a few twists and turns along the way.
Shrek The Musical JR. is a 70-minute version of the Broadway hit, great for audiences of all ages… if a little potty humor is acceptable in your family!
Asheville Junior Theater Presents Shrek JR.
April 5, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
April 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Everyone’s favorite ogre is back in this hilarious stage spectacle based on the Oscar-winning smash hit film and outrageous Broadway musical! It’s a “big bright beautiful world” as Shrek leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part reimagining of traditional fairy tales, Shrek JR. is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for the whole family.
Once upon a time, in a far away swamp, there lived an ogre named Shrek. One day, Shrek finds his swamp invaded by banished fairytale misfits who have been cast off by Lord Farquaad, a tiny terror with big ambitions. When Shrek sets off with a wisecracking donkey to confront Farquaad, he’s handed a task — if he rescues feisty princess Fiona, his swamp will be righted. Shrek tries to win Fiona’s love and vanquish Lord Farquaad, but a fairytale wouldn’t be complete without a few twists and turns along the way.
Shrek The Musical JR. is a 70-minute version of the Broadway hit, great for audiences of all ages… if a little potty humor is acceptable in your family!
A Community Fundraising Event Benefiting Blue Ridge Humane Society
Support Local, Save Local Animals
Join Blue Ridge Humane Society (BRHS) for Paws for a Purpose, a signature fundraising weekend dedicated to raising awareness and funds to support our mission of ensuring the highest quality of life for animals in Henderson County and surrounding communities.
Throughout the weekend, local businesses and individuals host fundraisers, helping animals in need while strengthening our community. By supporting small, locally owned businesses during this event, you contribute directly to the well-being of pets in our neighborhoods. In 2024, over 50 companies participated. We can’t wait to see who signs up this year!
Get Involved
We invite local businesses to participate by hosting fundraisers or special events. Whether it’s a percentage-of-sales donation, a themed event, or a pet-friendly gathering, every contribution makes a difference! Check out our Business Sign Up Page for more info or to sign up!
To find out more information, email [email protected] for more details.
Grab your four-legged friend and come out for some fun and friendly competition at the Buncombe County Sports Park Dog Park. There will be a small and large dog division and division will have approximately 30 minutes to find as many hidden eggs (filled with treats) as possible. In addition, dogs who collect the most eggs will receive a special prize. Free, Registration Required.
The purpose of the Hendo Earth Fest is to promote community education for all ages on environmental and sustainable practices, inspire action, and renew and expand commitments to protect our planet. Local and regional environmental allies focus on participation/hands-on activities and demonstrations designed to educate, renew and expand action to protect our Western North Carolina environment and natural resources. In our first inaugural 2023 festival, we saw approximately 2,000+ participants!
Celebrate with the whole family at The Horse Shoe Farm’s Silo Cookhouse this Easter with a delicious brunch buffet crafted from farm-fresh ingredients. Gather with your loved ones around the table and indulge in delightful Southern favorites, from honey roasted ham to house biscuits with savory jam and butter. Guests can build their own omelets at a bespoke station, select from an assortment of fresh salads, and enjoy tasty desserts like carrot cake cupcakes to get into the easter spirit. Most excitingly for the little ones, guests to the Silo Cookhouse Easter Brunch can participate in a fun-filled easter egg hunt on the property starting at 2pm!
Sunday April 20 from 11am to 3pm, reservations required. $85/adults, $50/kids age 3-12.
Give back this Earth Day with Buncombe County Parks and Recreation. Volunteers are invited to assist in clean-up and service projects. Volunteers groups are limited in capacity so Volunteer Registration is required. All tools and materials will be provided. More details coming soon!
Calling all young storytellers ages 8-13!
Gallery Tales is a 6-week program where kids explore various art pieces in the gallery to spark their imaginations and create incredible stories. Each week, participants will engage in interactive writing lessons, write unique tales, and gain the skills and confidence to become published authors. At the end of the program, every young writer will leave with their very own professionally published book and the opportunity to share their work and accomplishments with an audience of family and friends at a special Kids Open Mic Showcase!
Pricing Tiers:
Standard Tier: $397 (Includes all program materials, publishing, and showcase support)
Supporter Tier: $500 (Covers program materials, publishing, showcase support, and helps provide scholarships for other young writers)
Scholarship Option: Available to ensure every child has the opportunity to participate.
Limited spots are available for this unique program that celebrates art, and creativity, and inspires young writers to shine. Sign up today!
About the Gallery Tales Instructor:
Kate Wargo is a passionate educator with a decade of experience teaching in elementary classrooms. Holding a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, she brings her expertise in child development and creative learning to every program she designs. Kate is deeply committed to nurturing the whole child, blending art, writing, and community to create meaningful and transformative experiences. As an advocate for bringing the soul and love back into writing and supporting children’s mental health and well-being, she strives to create safe and inspiring spaces where they can discover their voices and shine as confident, creative storytellers.
Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.
Ages 5+
Suitable for Beginners to Advanced Birders
This outing takes place at Lake Julian Park from 8:30-11:30 am. Get to know the birds of Lake Julian, one of Buncombe County’s birding hotspots! We will start with a walk along the shore of Lake Julian and ends with birding on the lake from Lake Julian’s pontoon boat. Free, Registration Required. Binoculars are available upon request but supplies are limited. Dress for the weather!
Registration opens 30 days prior to activity.
For more information email [email protected] or call 828-250-4260.
Join us as we celebrate Earth Day and spring! More details coming soon
Join us at the Greenville Convention Center on May 2-4th, 2025 for Jurassic Quest! Jurassic Quest is the world’s largest, most popular Dino event with unique and exciting experiences for the whole family. There’s no better place to make pter-iffic memories playing with adorable baby Dinos, excavating fossils, or even training a raptor while being surrounded by behemoths like sky-scraping Spinosaurus and, the King himself, Tyrannosaurus rex! Get your tickets for Greenville now, before they go EXTINCT!
Friday: 12-6
Saturday: 9-6
Sunday: 9-5
Event held: Hall 1
Parking: $10 cashless, we accept all credit/debit cards and Apple/ Google Pay.
Parking is located off Exposition Drive.
Wortham Center Student Series Gaspard&Dancers
Friday, May 2, 2025 at 10 a.m.
Grades 6–12 • Show Length: 60 min.
How far can your imagination take you? This renowned dance company, known for its works of haunting beauty and emotional force, dares to find out — and to inspire your students to wonder the same.
Reservations for individuals (9 people or less): $12 each. To reserve, call the box office at 828-257-4530 ext. 1, or email [email protected].
Reservations for groups (10 people or more): $11 each. To reserve, complete the Student Series Reservation Form. Please note that all group reservations require a deposit of $1 per ticket. Please contact the box office if you have questions.
Get ready to lace up and represent your business at the 2025 Chamber Challenge 5K! This fun, community-focused event encourages wellness and friendly competition among Asheville-area businesses. Whether you’re walking every step or racing to the finish, we know you’re up for the challenge!
Join us in person on May 2nd or participate virtually.
Important Deadlines & Details:
- Register by April 13th at midnight to receive a short-sleeve shirt with your registration!
- After April 13th, shirts will be available in limited quantities and sizes.
- Registering a large group (25+ participants)? Contact Judi Willard at [email protected] for assistance.
To stay updated—text cc5k to 828-827-5332 to receive event notifications (you can opt out anytime).
Wortham Presents Gaspard & Dancers
Friday & Saturday, May 2 & 3, 2025 at 8 p.m.
How far can your imagination take you? This renowned company, known for its works of haunting beauty and emotional force, dares to find out in one of many pieces planned for its Asheville program. The company’s founder, Haitian-born former Pilobolus dancer Gaspard Louis, has earned international acclaim for his versatile and inventive choreography, drawing inspiration from — among many other sources — the idea of believing in magic, the search for self-acceptance and the spiritual practices of his home country.
Connect with the art and artists in a dance master class and pre-show discussions.
“The depth and breadth of Gaspard Louis’ choreography, the number of accomplished dancers and collaborations with artists in other fields reaches a new level.” – The Herald-Sun
The performances by Gaspard&Dancers are funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the North Carolina Arts Council.
How far can your imagination take you? This renowned company, known for its works of haunting beauty and emotional force, dares to find out in one of many pieces planned for its Asheville program. The company’s founder, Haitian-born former Pilobolus dancer Gaspard Louis, has earned international acclaim for his versatile and inventive choreography, drawing inspiration from — among many other sources — the idea of believing in magic, the search for self-acceptance and the spiritual practices of his home country.
Connect with the art and artists in a dance master class and pre-show discussions.
“The depth and breadth of Gaspard Louis’ choreography, the number of accomplished dancers and collaborations with artists in other fields reaches a new level.” – The Herald-Sun
The performances by Gaspard&Dancers are funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the North Carolina Arts Council.
Join us at the Greenville Convention Center on May 2-4th, 2025 for Jurassic Quest! Jurassic Quest is the world’s largest, most popular Dino event with unique and exciting experiences for the whole family. There’s no better place to make pter-iffic memories playing with adorable baby Dinos, excavating fossils, or even training a raptor while being surrounded by behemoths like sky-scraping Spinosaurus and, the King himself, Tyrannosaurus rex! Get your tickets for Greenville now, before they go EXTINCT!
Friday: 12-6
Saturday: 9-6
Sunday: 9-5
Event held: Hall 1
Parking: $10 cashless, we accept all credit/debit cards and Apple/ Google Pay.
Parking is located off Exposition Drive.
Wortham Presents Gaspard & Dancers
Friday & Saturday, May 2 & 3, 2025 at 8 p.m.
How far can your imagination take you? This renowned company, known for its works of haunting beauty and emotional force, dares to find out in one of many pieces planned for its Asheville program. The company’s founder, Haitian-born former Pilobolus dancer Gaspard Louis, has earned international acclaim for his versatile and inventive choreography, drawing inspiration from — among many other sources — the idea of believing in magic, the search for self-acceptance and the spiritual practices of his home country.
Connect with the art and artists in a dance master class and pre-show discussions.
“The depth and breadth of Gaspard Louis’ choreography, the number of accomplished dancers and collaborations with artists in other fields reaches a new level.” – The Herald-Sun
The performances by Gaspard&Dancers are funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the North Carolina Arts Council.
How far can your imagination take you? This renowned company, known for its works of haunting beauty and emotional force, dares to find out in one of many pieces planned for its Asheville program. The company’s founder, Haitian-born former Pilobolus dancer Gaspard Louis, has earned international acclaim for his versatile and inventive choreography, drawing inspiration from — among many other sources — the idea of believing in magic, the search for self-acceptance and the spiritual practices of his home country.
Connect with the art and artists in a dance master class and pre-show discussions.
“The depth and breadth of Gaspard Louis’ choreography, the number of accomplished dancers and collaborations with artists in other fields reaches a new level.” – The Herald-Sun
The performances by Gaspard&Dancers are funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the North Carolina Arts Council.
Join us at the Greenville Convention Center on May 2-4th, 2025 for Jurassic Quest! Jurassic Quest is the world’s largest, most popular Dino event with unique and exciting experiences for the whole family. There’s no better place to make pter-iffic memories playing with adorable baby Dinos, excavating fossils, or even training a raptor while being surrounded by behemoths like sky-scraping Spinosaurus and, the King himself, Tyrannosaurus rex! Get your tickets for Greenville now, before they go EXTINCT!
Friday: 12-6
Saturday: 9-6
Sunday: 9-5
Event held: Hall 1
Parking: $10 cashless, we accept all credit/debit cards and Apple/ Google Pay.
Parking is located off Exposition Drive.
This event is open to all youth 15 and under. Competitors will be divided into age groups (0-5, 6-10, and 11-15) with prizes in each for Biggest Fish (GRAND PRIZE), Smallest Fish, and Most Fish Caught.
This is a catch and release tournament. Each fish that is caught must be brought one at a time to the measuring station. After each fish has been measured, they will be released back into the lake. Your $10 registration fee includes a bucket, bait, plus snacks and drinks. You must be in the measuring station line before the horn goes off at 11:00 am to have your fish measured. Competitors must bring their own fishing poles and tackle.
On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Rotary Club of Rocky Mount is hosting the annual TACKLE THE TAR 5K Obstacle Course Race & Family Fun Day at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex. Our first heat begins with our Kid’s 1-mile fun run at 8:45 A.M. and festivities will continue until noon.
All proceeds from this event go directly to the funding of college scholarships for deserving students in the Rocky Mount Area. Since 2016, thanks to you, we have raised and awarded over $600,000 in scholarships to youth in our community. Thank you for making such a difference in the lives of so many!
Tackle the Tar is a 5K Obstacle Course Race that begins at the Rocky Mount Sports complex and courses through historic Battle Park and the E.B. Grain Company property. It comes complete with a MUD PIT and 15+ OBSTACLES to overcome. All racers will receive: T-shirt, medal, one free beer (if over 21), and goodie bag
Local ceramic artists will once again fire up their kilns for the 8th year to help hungry children in the greater Flat Rock area. On Sunday, May 18, Empty Bowls, a community meal benefiting the Flat Rock Backpack Program, will take place inside the Parish Hall at the Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness.
Advanced tickets are strongly recommended for the two seatings: 12:00pm-2:00pm and 4:00pm-6:00pm. Attendees of the event may come any time during their seating window. Each ticket includes one hand-crafted bowl (all donated by area potters) and a soup-based meal (a variety of soups, breads, and homemade cookies). For those wishing to eat at home, take-away is an available option.
Tickets are $30 per person or $50 for a family of two adults and children under 12. Limited tickets may be available at the door on the day of the event.
The Parish Hall is located across the street from the church building, at 1905 Greenville Highway. For more information or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, write to [email protected]. Click the button below to get your Empty Bowls tickets today!
Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages – wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center.