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, May 17, 2025
Kids’ Fishing Tournament
May 17 @ 8:00 am – 11:00 am
Lake Julian Park

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.

Tackle The Tar, a 5K obstacle course
May 17 @ 8:45 am
Rocky Mount Sports Complex

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

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.

Sunday, May 18, 2025
“Empty Bowls” Benefiting Flat Rock Backpack Program
May 18 @ 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
St. John in the Wilderness.  

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!

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.

Rhododendron Ramble
May 24 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

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.

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

Rhododendron Ramble
May 25 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

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.

Monday, May 26, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 26 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

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.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 27 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

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.

Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 28 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

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.

Thursday, May 29, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 29 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

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.

Friday, May 30, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 30 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

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.

Saturday, May 31, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
May 31 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

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.

Sunday, June 1, 2025
Rhododendron Ramble
Jun 1 @ 1:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

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.

Friday, June 6, 2025
Nature Photography Weekend
Jun 6 @ 8:00 am – Jun 8 @ 3:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

This popular shutterbug weekend includes presentations from top nature photographers, hands-on field courses, a friendly contest and the rare opportunity to photograph the mountain’s spectacular scenery before and after regular business hours.

This revamped version of the popular weekend will include changes to better welcome all levels of photographers, making it more fun and engaging for all – while better connecting participants with the wonders and unique ecology of Grandfather Mountain. This year, more than ever, we hope to not only help participants learn about photography, but to also inspire them to preserve the natural world. Activities begin Friday evening and conclude Sunday midday.

June 6, 2025 @8:00 am – June 8, 2025 @3:00 pm

Saturday, June 7, 2025
55th Annual Brevard AAUW Book Sale
Jun 7 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Brevard College Boshamer Gym

The Brevard Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is sponsoring its 55th Annual Book Sale, the largest and best book sale in North Carolina. Net proceeds support local STEM and educational scholarships for girls (5th-12th grades) and women at Brevard College and Blue Ridge Community College.

Book donations are collected in Yellow Boxes at numerous community locations from early February to late May 2025. Walk-in donations are accepted each Thursday until May 22 from 10am-2pm at The Book Book, 170 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC.

Sunday, June 8, 2025
55th Annual Brevard AAUW Book Sale
Jun 8 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Brevard College Boshamer Gym

The Brevard Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is sponsoring its 55th Annual Book Sale, the largest and best book sale in North Carolina. Net proceeds support local STEM and educational scholarships for girls (5th-12th grades) and women at Brevard College and Blue Ridge Community College.

Book donations are collected in Yellow Boxes at numerous community locations from early February to late May 2025. Walk-in donations are accepted each Thursday until May 22 from 10am-2pm at The Book Book, 170 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC.

Monday, June 9, 2025
55th Annual Brevard AAUW Book Sale
Jun 9 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Brevard College Boshamer Gym

The Brevard Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is sponsoring its 55th Annual Book Sale, the largest and best book sale in North Carolina. Net proceeds support local STEM and educational scholarships for girls (5th-12th grades) and women at Brevard College and Blue Ridge Community College.

Book donations are collected in Yellow Boxes at numerous community locations from early February to late May 2025. Walk-in donations are accepted each Thursday until May 22 from 10am-2pm at The Book Book, 170 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC.

Tuesday, June 10, 2025
55th Annual Brevard AAUW Book Sale
Jun 10 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Brevard College Boshamer Gym

The Brevard Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is sponsoring its 55th Annual Book Sale, the largest and best book sale in North Carolina. Net proceeds support local STEM and educational scholarships for girls (5th-12th grades) and women at Brevard College and Blue Ridge Community College.

Book donations are collected in Yellow Boxes at numerous community locations from early February to late May 2025. Walk-in donations are accepted each Thursday until May 22 from 10am-2pm at The Book Book, 170 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC.

Wednesday, June 11, 2025
55th Annual Brevard AAUW Book Sale
Jun 11 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Brevard College Boshamer Gym

The Brevard Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is sponsoring its 55th Annual Book Sale, the largest and best book sale in North Carolina. Net proceeds support local STEM and educational scholarships for girls (5th-12th grades) and women at Brevard College and Blue Ridge Community College.

Book donations are collected in Yellow Boxes at numerous community locations from early February to late May 2025. Walk-in donations are accepted each Thursday until May 22 from 10am-2pm at The Book Book, 170 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC.

Animal Birthday Party
Jun 11 @ 11:00 am – 3:30 pm
Grandfather Mountain

Join us to celebrate the birthdays of our resident animals with games, contests, crafts and surprises. The park’s wildlife habitat staff hosts a fun-filled afternoon for guests, as well as programs to celebrate the park’s furry and feathered inhabitants. Millie the Bear, the mountain’s mascot, will make special appearances throughout the day. Events begin at 11 a.m. and continue until 3:30 p.m. Join for one activity or all. Included with admission.

Thursday, June 26, 2025
 Courage in Bloom
Jun 26 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Highland Brewing
Save the date for Courage in Bloom , Our Voice’s first annual celebration of resilience, community, and hope. This special event honors the strength of survivors, the dedication of our community partners, and the collective effort to end sexual violence and human trafficking.
When: Thursday, June 26, 2025
Where: Highland Brewing, 6–9 PM
Enjoy a delicious dinner, refreshing drinks, live entertainment, a silent auction, and a heartfelt awards ceremony.
Early bird tickets go on sale March 2025. Stay tuned for event updates and news!
Want to make a difference? Learn about sponsorship and silent auction opportunities by emailing [email protected] .
Together, we can uplift survivors, prevent violence, and create a future where compassion and safety thrive.
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.

Monday, July 7, 2025
PARI Summer Camps Above and Beyond
Jul 7 – Jul 18 all-day
Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute

Best for students entering 9th-12th grade.
Above and Beyond is PARI’s signature camping experience designed to immerse high school students in the world of space science and research while building confidence and critical thinking skills.
Originally developed in partnership with Duke University and refined for nearly two decades, this space camp explores the universe through astronomy, physics, and astrobiology, while also providing time for adventure and fun.
The process followed by scientists and researchers who’ve made space science their career is modeled to show how new discoveries are made about the universe. Campers are provided the tools and guided through the process by professionals who have made space their life’s work.
This year’s camp will focus on the unique challenges of human space exploration, near and far. From the impact of stars on the planets in their systems, to the composition of atmospheres and regolith, we’ll present the tools to answer a myriad of questions that could one day help humanity spread beyond Earth.
How do we find water or breathable atmosphere, or can they be made? How do we measure radiation from a star or classify exoplanets? Can a cave or lava tube on Mars provide adequate shelter for humans? What resources can be harvested from asteroids? Maybe you’ll help answer a question like these.

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.