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.
Unlock the power of knowledge! The countdown to our RACIAL WEALTH GAP LEARNING EXPERIENCE is on. We noticed you haven’t responded yet and wanted to send a quick reminder. This hands-on experience provides attendees with an opportunity to dive deeper into the many layers of inequity and how they interact and affect our communities. Please join us for a morning of education, compassion, and understanding. Confirm or decline your attendance by following the prompts below.
Breakfast will be served at 7:45 am with the program beginning promptly at 8:30 am. We look forward to seeing you there!
Included with admission
Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.
Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.
Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!
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Join Extension Master Gardener David Bush to Learn how to get even more dahlias for next year with longer, straighter stems; and larger blooms. The way to dig, divide, and store the tubers for next year will be demonstrated.
Portions of this program may be held outside; please dress appropriately for the weather.
The presentation is free, but attendance is limited and registration with is required.
Join us for an introduction to planning and layout of land for small-scale farming. Our case study will be a property around the corner from the SAHC Community Farm in Alexander, NC.
We will conduct a site analysis of the property’s conditions using a number of land planning tools, with a Permaculture approach. We’ll inventory conditions such as soils, water, wind, aspect and more to create a multi-layered map of the site as a base for decision making. Using this information, together we will draw up a concept for the site, addressing needs and challenges identified in the analysis phase.
This workshop will be particularly appropriate for participants who already own or lease land, as well as those who plan to do so in the future. Our focus will be on growers, and the public is welcome!
In this 8-week semester, young artists will learn to create dynamic relationships through theatre games, improvisation, and scene work. With an emphasis on ensemble storytelling, character creation, physicality, and voice and speech, students will leave feeling more collaborative, creative, and confident making bold choices on stage and in life. No prior experience is necessary, only an open mind! With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times. We will end the semester with a taped video performance that will be emailed out to all families!
In this 8-week session, teen artists will learn from industry experts in acting, character development, scene work, and more! In their weekly acting class students will explore the nuances of theatre technique and provide a framework approaching scenes and monologues. This session is ideal for students who are passionate about theatre, excited to collaborate in a pre-professional environment with peers and industry experts, and looking to grow and develop as artists.With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times. We will end the semester with a taped video performance that will be emailed out to all families!
In celebration of the podcast Palimpsest’s fifth season launch this Halloween, join creators Jamieson Ridenhour and Hayley Heninger for an intimate live performance featuring a pre-launch sneak peek at the new season followed by haunted refreshments.
Palimpsest is a single-voiced horror audio drama about memory, identity, and the things that haunt us. Each 10-episode season is a self-contained story exploring the spaces between horror, fantasy, and psychological realism. Recently wrapping up its fourth season with over half a million downloads, Palimpsest has critics calling it “a masterclass in atmosphere” and “audio fiction’s best foray into the Gothic.”
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“Palimpsest is audio fiction’s best foray into the Gothic.”
-Wil Williams, DiscoverPods
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“Palimpsest is a masterclass in atmosphere. I absolutely cried.”
-Elena Fernández-Collins, AudioDramatic
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“Palimpsest is perfect for those who like their horror with a little Shirley Jackson vibe.”
-Tor.com
Written by Samuel D. Hunter
Keith, a mortgage broker and Ryan, a yogurt plant worker, are two men who, at first glance, have nothing in common. Their meeting, in Keith’s cubicle, evolves from a business discussion to a thoughtful exploration of parenthood, financial insecurity, and empathy. Both intimate and expansive, Samuel D. Hunter’s heartbreaking new play argues for hope even in the face of extreme disappointment as two men with seemingly very different lives grow to care for one another.
Content advisory: strong language
What is a Youth Production?
An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.
Interested in Technical Theatre classes?
If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.
2023-2024 SeasonThe Asheville Performing Arts Academy facilitates a life-long appreciation and advocacy of the arts by providing a loving community where students discover the tools needed to navigate life on and off the stage. MissionThe Asheville Performing Arts Academy is a school based on unlimited opportunities for students to explore their interests in music, dance, and drama. We foster a love and appreciation for the arts through student-teacher relationships, which encourage and help you to excel at your dream. We offer high quality instruction and educational experiences because we are committed to the art of teaching and the teaching of the arts. It is our hope to build art and awareness in the community and provide a home for families to pursue their dreams. With classes for students of all ages, the Asheville Performing Arts Academy is your place to discover the love of music, drama, and dance in your life. Asheville Performing Arts Academy… where the arts come alive! |
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February 2-4, 2024 Mean Girls, Jr.
February 9-11, 2024 Mean Girls HS Version
March/April 2024 A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Homeschool Academy) |
Extension Master GardenerSM volunteers will be staffing the Helpline as indicated in the schedule below. You may send an email or leave a voicemail at any time and an Extension Master Gardener volunteer will respond during Garden Helpline hours. When emailing, please include a photo if it helps describe your garden question. Soil test kits can be picked up at the Extension office, 24/7. The kits are located in a box outside the front door.
Three ways to contact the Garden Helpline
Call 828-255-5522
Email questions and photos to [email protected]
Visit the Extension Office at 49 Mt. Carmel Road during Helpline hours, listed below.
Garden Helpline Hours
March – (starts March 6)
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
April through September:
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Wednesday 12:00 Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
October – (ends October 26th)
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
We are here to help and support you! Please contact us. We look forward to answering your gardening questions.
Included with admission
Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.
Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.
Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!
Written by Samuel D. Hunter
Keith, a mortgage broker and Ryan, a yogurt plant worker, are two men who, at first glance, have nothing in common. Their meeting, in Keith’s cubicle, evolves from a business discussion to a thoughtful exploration of parenthood, financial insecurity, and empathy. Both intimate and expansive, Samuel D. Hunter’s heartbreaking new play argues for hope even in the face of extreme disappointment as two men with seemingly very different lives grow to care for one another.
Content advisory: strong language
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Enjoy a ‘spooky’ twist on our monthly farm tour as we get into the holiday spirit! But don’t let this hike scare you. It will be a moderate 2.5-mile loop across the hills and pastures of the SAHC Community Farm, with plenty of stops along the Discovery Trail to talk about farm production and conservation projects on the property. You’ll learn about our stream restoration efforts, shortleaf pine reforestation project, and more. FREE for SAHC members, $10 for non-members.
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The Greenville-centric story opens on Halloween night. While most families make their rounds through the well-known neighborhoods, a handful of kids break off from the group. Hoping to reveal an unspoken Greenville secret, they head to an abandoned mansion along the Reedy River. They knock on the door, and after no answer, a brave little girl says, “Let’s go!” and pushes it open. Lightning flashes to reveal a silhouette of a couple who dance a pas de deux to a string quartet medley of several Michael Jackson-inspired tunes. Music By Michael Jackson and Choreography by Hernan Justo.
Warning
Strob lighting and other intense lighting will be used during this show.
By Arthur Miller
On the Steve Lloyd Stage
Directed by Doug Savitt
A small man can be just as exhausted as a great man.
Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer-Prize winning American classic is a poignant look at the life of everyman Willy Loman, complete with grand hopes and heartbreaking missteps. Willy is on a quest for the American Dream, and wants more than anything for his family to achieve it alongside him. But their own visions of that dream – and their perceptions of who Willy really is beyond his façade – don’t necessarily match up with his reality. Through a series of tragic soul-searching revelations of the life he has lived with his wife, his sons, and his business associates, we discover how his quest for the “American Dream” kept him blind to the people who truly loved him. A thrilling work of deep and revealing beauty that remains one of the most profound classic dramas of the American Theatre.
Suitable for all audiences. Contains heavy subject matter.
Written by Will Storrs
Directed by Deanna Braine Smith
Just in time for Halloween, local playwright Will Storrs brings us this World Premiere reimagining Alice and the characters of Lewis Carroll’s story in a seasonally-appropriate way. Sure to be a horribly good time!
All shows will run Fridays through Sundays and all will be presented at 7:30pm and prime seats can be reserved.
Montford Park Players has been bringing some of theater’s greatest works to Western North Carolina for over 50 years. Montford Park Players continues its mission of bring free theater to the community. The summer season allows everyone to come spend an evening under the stars, seeing some of the best live performances presented in Asheville.
Our Halloween Show!
a world premiere, written by Will Storrs
Directed by Deanna Braine Smith
Book by Mel Brooks
Music and Lyrics by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan
Original Direction & Choreography by Susan Stroman
Presented through special arrangement with Musical Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
www.mtishows.com
Director: Elizabeth DeVault
Approximate Run Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Rating: PG-13 due to adult humor and content
It’s alive! The electrifying adaptation of Mel Brooks’ monstrously funny film will leave you in stitches. Grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fronk-en-steen”) inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor (pronounced “Eye-gore”), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga (pronounced normally), Dr. Frankenstein aims to fulfill his grandfather’s legacy by bringing a corpse back to life. Eventually, of course, the monster escapes and hilarity continuously abounds. With such memorable tunes as “The Transylvania Mania,” “He Vas My Boyfriend” and “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” Young Frankenstein is scientifically proven, monstrously good entertainment.
This virtuosic fiddler blends traditional Irish music with jazz, bluegrass and other world influences to deliver a musical experience like no other. Through dynamic playing, adept improvisation and soulful expression, Finn’s performances are an electrifying fusion of old and new, with masterful musicianship that’s earned him multiple appearances on MTV-U, PBS and NPR, as well as a spot in the All-Ireland Fiddle Championship finals.
You asked and we delivered! ACT is proud to offer a wide range of classes for adults. We invite you to join us to explore, discover, nurture, and refine your theatrical abilities – your stage is waiting.
Winter 1 Session (October 23-December 17, week off November 20-26 for Thanksgiving)
Extension Master GardenerSM volunteers will be staffing the Helpline as indicated in the schedule below. You may send an email or leave a voicemail at any time and an Extension Master Gardener volunteer will respond during Garden Helpline hours. When emailing, please include a photo if it helps describe your garden question. Soil test kits can be picked up at the Extension office, 24/7. The kits are located in a box outside the front door.
Three ways to contact the Garden Helpline
Call 828-255-5522
Email questions and photos to [email protected]
Visit the Extension Office at 49 Mt. Carmel Road during Helpline hours, listed below.
Garden Helpline Hours
March – (starts March 6)
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
April through September:
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Wednesday 12:00 Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
October – (ends October 26th)
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
We are here to help and support you! Please contact us. We look forward to answering your gardening questions.
Included with admission
Embark on a scenic journey across George Vanderbilt’s Italy with a large-scale outdoor display that combines brilliant botanical designs with authentic messages written by Vanderbilt himself.
Beautifully handcrafted of natural elements, each sculptural postcard depicts a location or landmark Vanderbilt visited more than a century ago. This captivating complement to Biltmore’s Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition reveals Vanderbilt’s passions for travel, culture, architecture, and art as well as his personal experience of such renowned Italian cities as Milan, Florence, Venice, Pisa, and Vatican City.
Adding to the charm and visual appeal of Ciao! From Italy—sure to be a hit among kids of all ages—is the G-scale model train that travels in and out of each postcard in this enlightening display!
We’re putting our build crew back together and we’d love to have you join us. Every 2 weeks, we’ll meet at 9 am for hands-on set construction! Whether your talents are building, painting, or you just want to learn, come out and join us every other Saturday for some creative fun. Tools and work gloves are helpful but not required
Hit the trails and learn more about The North Carolina Arboretum’s botanically diverse forest with a guided trail walk! April through October, this free hiking program is led by trained volunteer guides who take small groups of participants along woodland trails and through a variety of forest types. Depending on the season and each guide’s area of expertise, topics of discussion may include wildflowers, plant and tree identification, natural history and more.
Guided trail walks are limited to 15 people, including the guide, and are not recommended for guests under 16 years of age. Groups depart from the Baker Visitor Center Lobby on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m..
Walks last 1.5 – 2.5 hours, are approximately one to two miles in length. As this program is held rain or shine, all participants should dress appropriately for the weather.
There is no pre-registration; walks are first-come first served and sign up sheets are located in the Baker Visitors Center.
Walks are FREE; however, donations to The North Carolina Arboretum Society are appreciated. Regular parking fees apply. Arboretum Society Members always park free.
Know Before You Go
- Guided Trail Walks are not recommended for guests under 16 years of age.
- Guided Trail Walks are rain or shine and all participants should be dressed comfortably and for the weather.
- Hikes cover 1-2 miles and last 1.5-2 hours.
- Well-behaved leashed pets are welcome to accompany their owners. In the rare case that a pet is disruptive or negatively impacts the experience, the pet and its owner may be asked to excuse themselves from the guided walk.
- COVID-19 Safety: In order to hear the guide and fully participate in the trail walk, participants will be in close proximity to one another for extended periods of time. While face coverings are not required, participants should use their best judgement to keep themselves and others safe while enjoying the trails. Individuals who are experiencing flu-like symptoms or suspect they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should not participate.
- At this time, no more than 6 spaces may be filled by a single family/group through pre-registration for any one Guided Trail Walk. If additional spaces are available on the day of the Walk, additional members of the family/group may participate. We apologize for any inconvenience and look forward to welcoming larger groups in the future.
Willy Wonka Jr.
By Timothy Allen McDonald & Leslie Bricusse
In the Fangmeyer Theatre
Do you have the golden ticket?
The delicious adventures of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory light up the stage in this captivating adaptation of Roald Dahl’s fantastical tale. Enigmatic candy manufacturer, Willy Wonka, stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whomever comes up with these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. Four of the five winning children are insufferable brats, but the fifth is a likeable young lad named Charlie Bucket, who takes the tour in the company of his equally amiable grandfather. The children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka’s rules in the factory — or suffer the consequences. Featuring the enchanting songs from the 1971 film, in addition to a host of fun new songs, Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka JR. is a scrumdidilyumptious musical guaranteed to delight everyone’s sweet tooth.
Suitable for all audiences.
Community Costume Carnival
Enjoy trunk or treat, carnival games, a photo booth, small performances, a costume contest at 3:00 PM, and a costume sale from our costume shop.
Make the most of the Halloween season at ACT. Dress up and head over for an afternoon filled with fun activities. Try out different carnival games to win prizes, snap some pictures at our photo booth, and enjoy small performances sprinkled throughout the event.
Need a costume? Or maybe just that one last piece to complete your look? Browse through a variety at our costume sale with options for all ages.
Don’t miss the highlight of the day — the costume contest at 3:00 PM. Whether you want to showcase your costume or appreciate others’, it’s the place to be. See you there!
Class cost: $50
Min students: 8
Max students: 30
Class Dates: Saturday, October 28, 2023
Time: 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm
Ages: 13-18 (middle or high school student)
The last day to receive a full refund is September 28, 2023. After September 28, 2023, no refund will be issued.
Advance registration is required. Registration deadline is Friday, October 27 at 5 pm.
Need-based scholarships are available upon application.
Class Description:
Are you ready to hit the stage? This audition workshop is designed for teens who want to improve their auditioning and overall performing skills. This workshop will take you step-by-step through the audition process and give you pointers to make the whole experience more relaxing and familiar. The workshop will cover techniques for better auditioning, including cold reading skills, breaking down scenes, picking and preparing a monologue and a song, how to get a headshot and a resume, and how to find acting opportunities in our area. All actors, regardless of experience, ages 13 to 18, are eligible to attend.
Participants will have multiple opportunities to get up and perform during the workshop and will break off into groups several times during the day. Actors need to come prepared for a high-energy, action-filled afternoon.