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.
Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Play
Weaving together nearly two centuries of family history, this epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes and devastating failure of the financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees.
Performances of The Lehman Trilogy will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.
March 13 – April 6, 2025
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 7:00pm (please note, the 7pm start time is earlier than for other shows)
Sundays at 2pm
Friday 3/14 and 3/21 at 7:00pm
Friday 3/18 and 4/4 at 2pm
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.
In this bold reworking of Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya, a group of old friends, ex-lovers, estranged in-laws, and lifelong enemies gather to grapple with life’s thorniest questions—and each other. What could go wrong? Incurably lustful and lonely, hapless and hopeful, these seven souls collide and stumble their way towards a new understanding that LIFE SUCKS! Or does it?
Thursday, 3/20 at 7:30 pm (pay what you can available on 3/6)
Fridays at 7:30 pm
Saturdays at 3 pm
Sundays at 3 pm
In this bold reworking of Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya, a group of old friends, ex-lovers, estranged in-laws, and lifelong enemies gather to grapple with life’s thorniest questions—and each other. What could go wrong? Incurably lustful and lonely, hapless and hopeful, these seven souls collide and stumble their way towards a new understanding that LIFE SUCKS! Or does it?
Thursday, 3/20 at 7:30 pm (pay what you can available on 3/6)
Fridays at 7:30 pm
Saturdays at 3 pm
Sundays at 3 pm
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad welcomes back the Bunny Hopper Express Easter Train, March 29 & 30! This 4 and half-hour round trip special event train departs the historic Bryson City Depot at 11:00 am and will travel through the Smoky Mountains to our picturesque layover destination for Easter-themed activities and Egg Hunt.
Passengers will be on the lookout for those train-hopping bunnies who have snuck on to take a free ride! Festivities include an Easter egg hunt with prizes, a give-away bag with activities to enjoy during the train ride, and a yummy Easter treat for our junior railroaders to enjoy at the layover. There will also be plenty of opportunities for pictures with our bunny hoppers, so do not forget your camera!
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.
Spring Ephemeral Wildflowers with Alexandra Holland
ON-SITE | Saturday, March 29 | 1 – 3 pm
Spring is here, and the natural world is waking from its winter rest! Naturalist and botanist Alexandra Holland leads this wildflower walk at the Arboretum, pointing out the array of spring wildflowers emerging and in bloom. Learn some basics of wildflower ecology and identification while taking in the beauty of spring.
This program takes place outdoors. Please come prepared to walk on gentle, yet uneven terrain, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Play
Weaving together nearly two centuries of family history, this epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes and devastating failure of the financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees.
Performances of The Lehman Trilogy will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.
March 13 – April 6, 2025
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 7:00pm (please note, the 7pm start time is earlier than for other shows)
Sundays at 2pm
Friday 3/14 and 3/21 at 7:00pm
Friday 3/18 and 4/4 at 2pm
In this bold reworking of Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya, a group of old friends, ex-lovers, estranged in-laws, and lifelong enemies gather to grapple with life’s thorniest questions—and each other. What could go wrong? Incurably lustful and lonely, hapless and hopeful, these seven souls collide and stumble their way towards a new understanding that LIFE SUCKS! Or does it?
Thursday, 3/20 at 7:30 pm (pay what you can available on 3/6)
Fridays at 7:30 pm
Saturdays at 3 pm
Sundays at 3 pm
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad welcomes back the Bunny Hopper Express Easter Train, March 29 & 30! This 4 and half-hour round trip special event train departs the historic Bryson City Depot at 11:00 am and will travel through the Smoky Mountains to our picturesque layover destination for Easter-themed activities and Egg Hunt.
Passengers will be on the lookout for those train-hopping bunnies who have snuck on to take a free ride! Festivities include an Easter egg hunt with prizes, a give-away bag with activities to enjoy during the train ride, and a yummy Easter treat for our junior railroaders to enjoy at the layover. There will also be plenty of opportunities for pictures with our bunny hoppers, so do not forget your camera!
Early Spring Tree ID with Lauren Lampley
ON-SITE | Sunday, March 30 | 10 am – 1 pm
Each tree species grows their new leaves in unique ways and each spring we are reminded of that fact as the tiny leaves emerge from their buds. The timing of the spring “leaf-out” depends on many different factors and the weather plays an important role in if those first leaves survive to the summer or if they are burned by a late frost or snow. In this class we will look at which trees are leafing out first and how those leaves compare to the summer leaves we know. We will also discuss how to identify different tree species based on their new leaves and their bark.
This program takes place outdoors. Please come prepared to walk on gentle, yet uneven terrain, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Play
Weaving together nearly two centuries of family history, this epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes and devastating failure of the financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees.
Performances of The Lehman Trilogy will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.
March 13 – April 6, 2025
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 7:00pm (please note, the 7pm start time is earlier than for other shows)
Sundays at 2pm
Friday 3/14 and 3/21 at 7:00pm
Friday 3/18 and 4/4 at 2pm
“The Thorn,” a powerful and popular live theatrical event, seen live by over one million people, will bring the passion of Jesus to life this spring at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
The Thorn offers audiences a unique theatrical experience in a show that has been hailed as “Cirque meets ‘The Passion’” thanks to its compelling mix of drama, music, dance, martial arts, aerial acrobatics, emotionally evocative performances, and timeless spiritual perspectives. The story spans from creation to the formation of the early church. Watch the trailer here. For more information, please visit TheThorn.com
Author John Bolin created the show over 25 years ago to convey the meaning of Christ’s sacrificial death to a group of young people who knew little about the story of Jesus’ suffering but were familiar with pain through their own practice of cutting and self-harm.
The show has evolved ever since, with the current live version returning to the original format featuring St. John, “the beloved disciple,” recalling his many amazing encounters with Jesus.
“It’s a story full of love, sacrifice, spiritual warfare, and redemption,” said Bolin.
In this bold reworking of Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya, a group of old friends, ex-lovers, estranged in-laws, and lifelong enemies gather to grapple with life’s thorniest questions—and each other. What could go wrong? Incurably lustful and lonely, hapless and hopeful, these seven souls collide and stumble their way towards a new understanding that LIFE SUCKS! Or does it?
Thursday, 3/20 at 7:30 pm (pay what you can available on 3/6)
Fridays at 7:30 pm
Saturdays at 3 pm
Sundays at 3 pm
Birding for Beginners with Lauren Lampley
ON-SITE | Tuesday, April 1 | 9 – 10:30am
Join us on this birding walk around the NC Arboretum gardens and trails in search of a very common year round resident of North Carolina: Carolina Chickadee. We will take an in-depth look at these common feeder birds and also look for other early spring migrants. Bring your own binoculars but if you do not have a pair we have some loaner binoculars available to use during the program.
This program will take place outside and will follow easy trails and paved walkways. Dress for the weather and prepare to be outside for the entire program time.
Natural History Interpretation (3 sessions) with Brad Daniel
Tuesdays, March 25, April 1 + 8 | 12 – 4 pm
Natural history interpreters provoke interest and curiosity in our natural and cultural heritage. This course will introduce the basic principles of environmental interpretation and is designed for Blue Ridge Naturalists who will be leading nature walks, teaching natural history to adults or children, and delivering talks to community groups. Participants will learn how to create nature education talks or walks that are purposeful, enjoyable, informative and organized. Students will be given an opportunity to develop their own programs and practice their presentation and communication skills. This class fulfills a Capstone Core requirement for the Blue Ridge Naturalist Certificate and should be completed near the end of a student’s studies in the program.
Bullington Gardens is known for our expansive collection of dahlias. Each year our volunteer dahlia crew work tirelessly to ensure we have the best crop possible. These amazing plants take quite a bit of work to be successful, and it starts with dividing your tuber. Join Kim Biggerstaff and Isaac Wyatt as we walk through the culture of dahlias. We will also have a tuber dividing demo after the class. Participants will get a chance to divide a clump of tubers and take one home!
April 1, 2025, 1:00-3:00 pm. Fee: $30.00
Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Play
Weaving together nearly two centuries of family history, this epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes and devastating failure of the financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees.
Performances of The Lehman Trilogy will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.
March 13 – April 6, 2025
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 7:00pm (please note, the 7pm start time is earlier than for other shows)
Sundays at 2pm
Friday 3/14 and 3/21 at 7:00pm
Friday 3/18 and 4/4 at 2pm
Wortham Center Student Series TheaterWorksUSA presents Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!
Thursday, April 3, 2025 at 10 a.m. & 12 p.m.*
Grades PreK–2 • Show Length: 60 min.
*Please note: These Student Series performances are currently wait list only.
Featuring an innovative mix of songs and feathers, this musical is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping.
Reservations for individuals (10 people or less): $12 each. To reserve, call the box office at 828-257-4530 ext. 1, or email [email protected].
Reservations for groups (11 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.
PLEASE NOTE: These shows are currently wait list only. Completing the Student Series Reservation Form will add the group to the waiting list.
Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Play
Weaving together nearly two centuries of family history, this epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes and devastating failure of the financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees.
Performances of The Lehman Trilogy will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.
March 13 – April 6, 2025
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 7:00pm (please note, the 7pm start time is earlier than for other shows)
Sundays at 2pm
Friday 3/14 and 3/21 at 7:00pm
Friday 3/18 and 4/4 at 2pm
Beginning Botany with Alexandra Holland
Friday, April 4 | 1 – 4pm
It’s a tough life for a plant: make dinner, create and nurture offspring, fight off predators, deal with the neighbors. In Beginning Botany we’ll explore how plants handle these daily challenges using and modifying only leaves, stems, and roots. We’ll cover the basics of plant structure and function.
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.
Southern Appalachian Birds Through the Seasons with Carlton Burke
Saturday, April 5 | 12 – 4 pm
Since birds are capable of long distance flights and many engage in annual migration rituals, their presence in our area often changes in relation to the seasons of the year. In this class we will discuss the seasonal patterns of southern Appalachian birds and focus on some of the major species and their annual life cycles. As part of this program, there will be a “lab” portion where students will be able to meet some live birds and participate in other hands-on components to deepen the learning.
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!
Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Play
Weaving together nearly two centuries of family history, this epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes and devastating failure of the financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees.
Performances of The Lehman Trilogy will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.
March 13 – April 6, 2025
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 7:00pm (please note, the 7pm start time is earlier than for other shows)
Sundays at 2pm
Friday 3/14 and 3/21 at 7:00pm
Friday 3/18 and 4/4 at 2pm
EcoHopeful with Liza Wolff-Francis
Sunday, April 6 | 2 – 4 pm
In a climate disaster like a hurricane, there is chaos and moment to moment survival and often fear. Immediately afterwards, there is often a gathering of self, an assessing of the situation. Then comes grief, loss, and uncertainty. Much later, the outer world expects things will all get back to normal, though we may not feel we are quite “back” to what we were. In fact, we may feel deeply changed. In all of these stages of a disaster, we assess what is happening and how we are doing and what we need to do going forward.
In this quick 2-hour workshop, we will come together in our resiliency to normalize how we have responded to the disaster and to learn and practice tools to calm our nervous systems in order to feel stronger in our current assessment of what’s next for us. Join us for a gathering in community, strength building, and resiliency boosting, as we continue to weave Helene into one of the stories we carry with us, not one that carries us.
Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Play
Weaving together nearly two centuries of family history, this epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes and devastating failure of the financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees.
Performances of The Lehman Trilogy will be held on the days and times listed below. The lobby and concessions area will open one hour prior to showtime. Concessions may be taken into the theatre during the performance.
March 13 – April 6, 2025
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 7:00pm (please note, the 7pm start time is earlier than for other shows)
Sundays at 2pm
Friday 3/14 and 3/21 at 7:00pm
Friday 3/18 and 4/4 at 2pm
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!
Co-Existing with Black Bears with Tanya Poole
Wednesday, April 9 | 5 – 6 pm
It’s spring and you know what that means. Warmer temperatures, beautiful flowers and trees blooming, people venturing out to enjoy it all. And it turns out black bears are coming out in large numbers to enjoy the same things that humans enjoy. Learn about the conditions that contribute to the black bear population continuing to thrive in Western North Carolina in proximity to so many people. Tanya Poole, Conservation Initiatives Engagement Coordinator with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, discusses BearWise strategies recommended by wildlife experts that will help people better coexist with these amazing animals.