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.

Saturday, April 26, 2025
She Slays 5k
Apr 26 @ 8:00 am
Pardee Cancer Center

In collaboration with Pardee Hospital Foundation and Hunter Subaru, we are thrilled to present the 2nd Annual She Slays 5K. This event is all about celebrating the strength, courage, and fierce determination of women fighting cancer. Whether you walk or run, you’re making a difference for those who are in the midst of this battle. This event aims to empower people to take charge of their health and well-being, while also raising funds for Hendersonville women who are fighting cancer.

While this event supports women with cancer, everyone is welcome to participate!

Grove Arcade In Bloom
Apr 26 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Grove Arcade

Grove Arcade In Bloom: A Celebration of Growth

Spring is arriving in full bloom at one of Asheville’s most iconic landmarks! Grove Arcade In Bloom will transform the historic place into an immersive floral wonderland this Spring 2025. Come celebrate with us on Saturday, April 26, from 12 PM to 5 PM!

This event will feature:
🎻 Live Symphony Quartet from Asheville Symphony
🌷 Immersive Floral Installations by Studio Flora Diva, including a flower wall
🛍 Botanical Market by BB Barns and other local vendors with plants and garden treasures.
🎭 Performances & Art Installations
🍹 Aperol Spritz Pop-Up Bar

With support from B.B. Barns, Aperol Spritz, Stewart Owen Dance, Asheville Symphony, Studio Flora Diva, and On the Wing, Grove Arcade In Bloom is set to be a must-visit celebration of springtime, music, and community.

Follow @grovearcade on social media for updates.

For media inquiries, interviews, or questions please contact: [email protected]

Friday, May 2, 2025
Gaspard&Dancers
May 2 @ 10:00 am
Wortham Center for Performing Arts

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.

2025 Chamber Challenge 5K
May 2 @ 4:00 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

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).

Gaspard & Dancers
May 2 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for Performing Arts

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. 

Gaspard&Dancers
May 2 @ 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

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.

Saturday, May 3, 2025
Gaspard & Dancers
May 3 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for Performing Arts

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. 

Gaspard&Dancers
May 3 @ 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

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.

Saturday, May 17, 2025
Saluda Arts Festival
May 17 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Historic Downtown Saluda

The Saluda Downtown Foundation is proud to celebrate Saluda’s heritage and art culture at the 20th anniversary of the Saluda Arts Festival. Stretching along historic and charming Main Street, every art media is represented in this popular annual event including paintings, pottery, metal work, woodwork, jewelry, sculptures, fiber, and more. Live music, Children’s Tent, Family Fun. Event is held on Historic Main Street, Saluda, NC 28773, May 17, 2025, 10am to 4pm.

Thursday, May 22, 2025
City Dance
May 22 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

ABSFest: Thursday Live Music Speakeasy Opening Party
May 22 @ 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
The Crow & Quill

The 16th ABSFest: Asheville Burlesque & Sideshow Festival opens at the Crow & Quill, with our ABSFest Speakeasy. Local live music sweethearts Drayton & the Dreamboats play jazz all night with bellydancers, sword- swallowing and more. Hosted by international Jester, Paolo Garbanzo. Tickets at the Door.

Friday, May 23, 2025
ABSFest: Friday FanDom Nerdlesque Show
May 23 @ 8:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

The 16th ABSFest: Asheville Burlesque & Sideshow Festival at the Grey Eagle sees the return of our FanDom Nerdlesque Show, hosted by Atlanta’s Lola LeSoleil. Your favorite fandoms brought to the stage! From sexy Star Wars to sassy Super Mario, this sexy, silly and surprising show has something for everybody. VIPs enjoy early seating, a pre-show, and themed goody bags.

Saturday, May 24, 2025
ABSFest Saturday Workshops: Burlesque, Bellydance, Drag & Resilience for Artists
May 24 @ 12:00 pm – 3:30 pm
The Orange Peel

FOUR Workshops held at the Orange Peel! $40 in advance, $50 day of unless FREE.
12:30-2pm
Burlesque, with Jo’Rie Tigerlily.
Drag, with Qing Blaze.
2-3:30
Bellydance, with Naimah.
Resilience and Ethics for Artists in Uncertain Times, with Nadira & Mavi, a free facilitated discussion for the variety arts community. Email us at [email protected] to inquire about the Resilience class. Otherwise, visit absfest.com to register and get MORE INFORMATION about workshop offerings and the instructors.

ABSFest Saturday Spectacular Burlesque & Sideshow Fest
May 24 @ 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
The Orange Peel

The 16th annual ABSFest: Asheville Burlesque & Sideshow Festival at The Orange Peel offers up the The Saturday Spectacular. Don’t Miss This Show; the most glamorous showgirls, astonishing aerials, and delicious vendors, as well as vibrant acts of rebellion, comedy and dexterity. Hosted by festival founder Madame Onça! VIPs enjoy early expedited seating, shopping and a live music pre-show.

Sunday, May 25, 2025
ABSFest Sunday Brunch: Church of Decadence – with Burlesque!
May 25 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
The Grey Eagle

The 16th annual ABSFest: Asheville Burlesque & Sideshow Festival Sunday at The Grey Eagle brings the brunch show – the Church of Decadence, hosted by pin-up priestess Phoebe Nyx. Come feel the holy spirit of burlesque moving through you. Dress for church – be that church hats, mumus, or pjs. Tickets at www.thegreyeagle.com 12-2pm

Saturday, June 21, 2025
Smoky Mountain Yoga & Wellness Festival
Jun 21 @ 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Folkmoot Friendship Center

Mark your calendars! Haywood County will host the 1st Annual Smoky Mountain Yoga & Wellness Festival on June 21st right here on the Folkmoot Friendship Center campus. This is an all-embracing celebration honoring International Day of Yoga, Summer Solstice and whole-body wellness. Beginning with an Opening Ceremony at 10 am, the festival will offer yoga, qigong, tai chi, somatics and sound healing sessions, Wisdom & Wellness talks and workshops, Vendor Village with dozens of artists, artisans, outdoor activity gear and wellness related products, Food Truck Park, an herbal mocktail bar, children’s adventure center with free activities throughout the day, live entertainment, hula hooping, belly dancing and a drum circle, all culminating with a dynamic Closing Ceremony at 8 pm. Axis Yoga is the proud Presenting Sponsor, and Axis instructor Robin King is the founder and director of the festival. We invite you to bring your family, mats, blankets and camp chairs and settle in on The Green, the sports field adjacent to our buildings, for a full day of inspiration, deep connection and family fun. Vending and sponsorship opportunities available. Fees only apply for classes and workshops. All other activities are FREE! For more information, visit the festival website at https://www.smokymountainyogafest.com/

Thursday, June 26, 2025
City Dance
Jun 26 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

Thursday, July 24, 2025
City Dance
Jul 24 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

Appalachian Phoenix, a Celebration of Community, Resilience and Hope
Jul 24 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for Performing Arts

Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance presents Appalachian Phoenix, a Celebration of Community, Resilience and Hope.

July 24, 25 & 26, 2025 at 8 p.m.

Resilience. Hope. Celebration. Experience a transformative evening where world class dance, art, and community come together to honor local heroes and inspire renewal. This vibrant performance features breathtaking choreography, stunning visuals crafted from reclaimed materials, and stories of selflessness and unity — a powerful reminder that from adversity, a new strength, like a phoenix, can rise.

Join Asheville’s critically acclaimed contemporary ballet company for an unforgettable evening that blends stunning dance, breathtaking visuals, and stories of heroism inspired by our community’s recovery from Hurricane Helene.

Choreographer Heather Maloy’s latest work, Appalachian Phoenix, pairs Terpsicorps’ exceptional dancers — handpicked from some of the nation’s finest professional companies — with local artists and musicians. Together, they bring to life a powerful story of hope, unity, and transformation in the face of disaster.

Friday, July 25, 2025
Appalachian Phoenix, a Celebration of Community, Resilience and Hope
Jul 25 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for Performing Arts

Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance presents Appalachian Phoenix, a Celebration of Community, Resilience and Hope.

July 24, 25 & 26, 2025 at 8 p.m.

Resilience. Hope. Celebration. Experience a transformative evening where world class dance, art, and community come together to honor local heroes and inspire renewal. This vibrant performance features breathtaking choreography, stunning visuals crafted from reclaimed materials, and stories of selflessness and unity — a powerful reminder that from adversity, a new strength, like a phoenix, can rise.

Join Asheville’s critically acclaimed contemporary ballet company for an unforgettable evening that blends stunning dance, breathtaking visuals, and stories of heroism inspired by our community’s recovery from Hurricane Helene.

Choreographer Heather Maloy’s latest work, Appalachian Phoenix, pairs Terpsicorps’ exceptional dancers — handpicked from some of the nation’s finest professional companies — with local artists and musicians. Together, they bring to life a powerful story of hope, unity, and transformation in the face of disaster.

Saturday, July 26, 2025
Appalachian Phoenix, a Celebration of Community, Resilience and Hope
Jul 26 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for Performing Arts

Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance presents Appalachian Phoenix, a Celebration of Community, Resilience and Hope.

July 24, 25 & 26, 2025 at 8 p.m.

Resilience. Hope. Celebration. Experience a transformative evening where world class dance, art, and community come together to honor local heroes and inspire renewal. This vibrant performance features breathtaking choreography, stunning visuals crafted from reclaimed materials, and stories of selflessness and unity — a powerful reminder that from adversity, a new strength, like a phoenix, can rise.

Join Asheville’s critically acclaimed contemporary ballet company for an unforgettable evening that blends stunning dance, breathtaking visuals, and stories of heroism inspired by our community’s recovery from Hurricane Helene.

Choreographer Heather Maloy’s latest work, Appalachian Phoenix, pairs Terpsicorps’ exceptional dancers — handpicked from some of the nation’s finest professional companies — with local artists and musicians. Together, they bring to life a powerful story of hope, unity, and transformation in the face of disaster.

Saturday, August 23, 2025
HarvestFest Supporting ASAP
Aug 23 @ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Olivette Riverside Community and Farm

Join us at Olivette’s Riverside Park on Saturday August 23rd for a very special benefit show in support of ASAP’s Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables program. HarvestFest is a celebration of local farmers, community and music. Doors open at 3pm with family games and activities and live music.
In honor of our local farmers and all they do to sustain our community, all farmers and their families will have free entry to the event. All ticket proceeds will go towards the ASAP Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables program.

Thursday, August 28, 2025
City Dance
Aug 28 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

Thursday, September 25, 2025
City Dance
Sep 25 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

Thursday, October 23, 2025
City Dance
Oct 23 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

Thursday, November 27, 2025
City Dance
Nov 27 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

Thursday, December 25, 2025
City Dance
Dec 25 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

Thursday, January 22, 2026
City Dance
Jan 22 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

Thursday, February 26, 2026
City Dance
Feb 26 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.

Thursday, March 26, 2026
City Dance
Mar 26 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

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.