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.

Sunday, December 17, 2023
A Swannanoa Solstice
Dec 17 @ 2:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

For more than 20 years, this beloved local holiday tradition has ushered in the winter season with a joyful infusion of performances by the best and brightest artists in our region. This year, the celebration welcomes the next generation of musicians to the stage to spread seasonal warmth, magic and cheer with Celtic, American-roots and world-influenced music, rousing dance and timeless stories — illuminating winter’s darkest day with wonder and peace.

The 2023 A Swannanoa Solstice features performances by:

-John Doyle
-John Goforth
-E.J. Jones & The Piper Jones Band
-Jane Kramer
-Becky Stone
-Zoe & Cloyd

A Swannanoa Solstice
Dec 17 @ 7:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

For more than 20 years, this beloved local holiday tradition has ushered in the winter season with a joyful infusion of performances by the best and brightest artists in our region. This year, the celebration welcomes the next generation of musicians to the stage to spread seasonal warmth, magic and cheer with Celtic, American-roots and world-influenced music, rousing dance and timeless stories — illuminating winter’s darkest day with wonder and peace.

The 2023 A Swannanoa Solstice features performances by:

-John Doyle
-John Goforth
-E.J. Jones & The Piper Jones Band
-Jane Kramer
-Becky Stone
-Zoe & Cloyd

Thursday, December 21, 2023
Connect Beyond’s Holiday Fundraiser
Dec 21 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
The Mule at Devil's Foot Beverage

Join us for our 2023 Holiday Fundraiser featuring a silent auction and raffle as well as live DJ set from Mad Mike Martinez, and a dance party for all attendeees.

VIP TICKET // $35 // 6pm – 7:30pm: VIP Hour includes light appetizers and beverages.

General Admission Tickets // $5 // 6pm – 10pm: Includes your suggested donation to non-profit, Connect Beyond Festival.

*Proceeds from this event will be directly donated to Connect Beyond Festival. This is an all ages event.

Thursday, December 28, 2023
City Dance
Dec 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.

Saturday, December 30, 2023
Tweetsie Christmas
Dec 30 @ 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Tweetsie Railroad

Celebrate the holiday season as Tweetsie Railroad transforms into a winter wonderland for Tweetsie Christmas on November 24, 25, 26, December 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, & 30!

Closed Thanksgiving Eve, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.

Tweetsie Christmas offers holiday activities the whole family will love, including a 20-minute nighttime train ride in an open-air car behind one of the park’s historic steam locomotives on a three-mile route lined with over 1 million Christmas lights, a heartwarming, toe-tapping, live Christmas variety show, kid-friendly amusement rides, meetings with Santa in his Gingerbread House filled with candied furnishings, and roasting s’mores over an outdoor fire.

New Year’s Freakout
Dec 30 @ 8:00 pm
DSSOLVR

Get ready to bid farewell 2023 a day early. That’s right y’all, we are doing a New Year’s Eve, Eve Party. 24 hours till 2024, get ready for New Year’s Freakout! 🥳 DJ ABUDISARRAY is cranking up the beats starting at 8 PM, and we’ve got a night of non-stop celebration planned just for you.

The party kicks off at 8 PM, and guess what? Free entry!
We’ll also have signature Jello Shots, Specialty Lil Thankies cocktails, and Peppermint Mocha hot drinks!
As the clock inches closer to midnight, we’re treating you to a complimentary champagne toast to ring in the New Year’s.(who parties on a Sunday?)

Bring your party spirit, dancing shoes, and get ready to freak out as we say goodbye to the old and welcome the new in the most epic way possible. See you there!

Sunday, December 31, 2023
New Year’s Eve Party at Point Lookout Vineyards
Dec 31 @ 6:30 pm
Point Lookout Vineyards

Fine dining, music from The Super 60’s, and good times

Wednesday, January 3, 2024
Westie Wednesdays at Continuum ft. Ryan Pflumm
Jan 3 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
CONTINUUM ART

Help us relaunch the Westie scene in a premier venue showcasing spacious dance floors, high ceilings, and a vintage vibe. If you are new to West Coast Swing, come check out for yourself the popular dance style that can be done to a wide variety of music, including pop, country, blues, and contemporary music! For those looking to advance their skills, the Hendersonville WCS community is excited to welcome Pro Instructor Ryan Pflumm to Continuum!

As always, the dress is casual and no partner is needed. Join us for an incredible night of connecting and dancing with our MONTHLY event every FIRST Wednesday!

PRIVATE LESSONS
If you would like to book a private lesson with Ryan for $75 per hour, please message Continuum with the following:

  1. Which timeslot(s)
  2. number of people attending
    Times:
    3:30-4:30pm
    4:30-5:30pm
    5:30-6:30pm
    first come, first served

CLASSES
7:00-8:00pm Intermediate w/ Ryan Pflumm!
7:00-8:00pm Beginner w/ Rachel Harris
8:00-10:00pm Social Dance

Each class is $10 and includes a pass to the social dance. The social dance is $7 without a lesson. Music will be DJ’d by Pro Instructor Ryan Pflumm.

Bring your own beer/wine. Liquor and other beverages above 16% alcohol content are strictly prohibited.

Masks are encouraged but, not required.

Cash, cards, Venmo, PayPal, and Cash app are accepted.

Saturday, January 6, 2024
KID HOP HOORAY! Open Floor Dance Party for Kids with Live DJ: DJ Oso Rey!
Jan 6 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
The Orange Peel
Open Floor Dance Party for Kids with Live DJ: DJ Oso Rey!
Drop in anytime.
Playing family-friendly dance music for family wintertime fun/
There will be FREE Glow accessories for your little dancers, plenty of room to run, dance, and get their sillies out while it’s cold outside, and snacks for purchase the Hop Ice Creamery!  And of course, The Orange Peel bar will be open for mom and dad’s refreshments (and/or kids‘ juice boxes)
Padded area available for crawlers and new walkers to play and explore.
12 and under are only $2 (babies under 2 years old are free) and everyone else is $6.

Ticket price includes applicable sales tax.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024
LES BALLETS TROCKADERO DE MONTE CARLO
Jan 16 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Concert Hall

You don’t need to know plié from a jeté to enjoy Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo. The company, affectionately known as the Trocks, brings its internationally beloved troupe of male dancers to Greenville to perform a brilliant combination of skillful pointe work and hilarious parodying of classical ballet favorites like Swan Lake.

In the nearly 50 years since the company’s founding, it has grown to achieve great appeal among more mainstream audiences who flock to theaters throughout the world to see the prima ballerinas perform. The Trocks are “a guaranteed hoot for people who know nothing of ballet and an absolute must for those who think they know the originals” (Sydney Star Observer).

Friday, January 19, 2024
SHREK RAVE
Jan 19 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

IT’S DUMB JUST COME HAVE FUN. WHO CARES. COOL IS DEAD.

Ages 18+

Saturday, January 20, 2024
Chase Away the Blues
Jan 20 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center

TFAC’s popular event, Chase Away the Blues, returns to January in 2024 to brighten up the winter nights! Get ready! The VIP Blues Lounge opens at 5:30 PM with live music open bar and food provided by Tryon Resort in the Pavilion. All are sure to get your feet stomping…

Thursday, January 25, 2024
City Dance
Jan 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.

Friday, January 26, 2024
Wortham Center Student Series PARSONS DANCE
Jan 26 @ 10:00 am
Diana Wortham Theatre

Recommended grades: 4-12
Performance duration: 60 min

With athleticism, grace, and unparalleled innovation, Parsons Dance creates unforgettable contemporary performances that amaze audiences.

Connect with the artists in a post-show Q&A.

Reservations for individuals (10 people or less): $12 each. To reserve, complete the Student Series Reservation Form, 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.






PARSONS DANCE
Jan 26 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

As one of the world’s premier contemporary dance companies, this talented troupe showcases a dynamic fusion of styles that combines athleticism, grace and unparalleled innovation. Through endless creativity and self-expression, striking choreography and powerful music, Parsons Dance creates unforgettable performances that push the boundaries of dance and bring life-affirming artistry to audiences across the globe.

Connect with the art and artists

  • Dance workshop — details forthcoming
  • Pre-show discussions: January 26 & 27 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, January 27, 2024
PARSONS DANCE
Jan 27 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

As one of the world’s premier contemporary dance companies, this talented troupe showcases a dynamic fusion of styles that combines athleticism, grace and unparalleled innovation. Through endless creativity and self-expression, striking choreography and powerful music, Parsons Dance creates unforgettable performances that push the boundaries of dance and bring life-affirming artistry to audiences across the globe.

Connect with the art and artists

  • Dance workshop — details forthcoming
  • Pre-show discussions: January 26 & 27 at 7 p.m.
THE TAYLOR PARTY: THE TS DANCE PARTY
Jan 27 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel
Ages 18+

Hey, Lovers!

Are you ready for it?

THE TAYLOR PARTY, the original Taylor Swift Inspired Dance Party ✨

💃 Come shake it off at our enchanting evening of Swifties, singing and dancing through all TS iconic Eras.

Pick your Eras outfit, bring your besties, and come party in style! 🕶️

Long live the magic we’ll make. 💎

Sunday, February 4, 2024
Old Farmer’s Ball Annual Meeting + Dance
Feb 4 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
 Bryson Gym, Warren Wilson

Annual Meeting And Dance

Date:          February  4, 2024 / Sunday

Time:         5:00 to 9:00 pm

5 to 6 pm – Snacks & Socializing

6 to 7 pm –  Meeting

7 to 9 pm –  Dance / Lagomorph with David Winston calling

Location:  Bryson Gym, Warren Wilson

Meeting Agenda:

  • Introductions: (10seconds each)
  • Recap of the previous year
  • Presentation of the budget approved by the board.
  • Committees
  • Nominations for new board members
  • Vote on the new board incoming board members
  • Presentation mission and vision of CDSS
  • Open discussion
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
Westie Wednesdays at Continuum ft. Ryan Pflumm
Feb 7 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
CONTINUUM ART

Help us relaunch the Westie scene in a premier venue showcasing spacious dance floors, high ceilings, and a vintage vibe. If you are new to West Coast Swing, come check out for yourself the popular dance style that can be done to a wide variety of music, including pop, country, blues, and contemporary music! For those looking to advance their skills, the Hendersonville WCS community is excited to welcome Pro Instructor Ryan Pflumm to Continuum!

As always, the dress is casual and no partner is needed. Join us for an incredible night of connecting and dancing with our MONTHLY event every FIRST Wednesday!

PRIVATE LESSONS
If you would like to book a private lesson with Ryan for $75 per hour, please message Continuum with the following:

  1. Which timeslot(s)
  2. number of people attending
    Times:
    3:30-4:30pm
    4:30-5:30pm
    5:30-6:30pm
    first come, first served

CLASSES
7:00-8:00pm Intermediate w/ Ryan Pflumm!
7:00-8:00pm Beginner w/ Rachel Harris
8:00-10:00pm Social Dance

Each class is $10 and includes a pass to the social dance. The social dance is $7 without a lesson. Music will be DJ’d by Pro Instructor Ryan Pflumm.

Bring your own beer/wine. Liquor and other beverages above 16% alcohol content are strictly prohibited.

Masks are encouraged but, not required.

Cash, cards, Venmo, PayPal, and Cash app are accepted.

Thursday, February 8, 2024
LaDonna Smith and Susan Hefner / John English and Kris Gruda
Feb 8 @ 7:00 pm
Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center

LaDonna Smith and Susan Hefner

LaDonna Smith and Susan Hefner have a long relationship of working together in creative collaborations. Beginning in 1976, Susan was part of a dance group of young improvisers who collaborated in one of the earliest TransMuseq concerts. She was only 16 years old at the time! Embarking on a career in dance & improvisation she worked with the Alwin Nicolais Dance Theater. She was Director/choreographer of Susan Hefner and Dancers as well as continual improvisatory explorations with LaDonna Smith and Davey Williams TransMuseq projects in Alabama as well as projects & improvisers in the Brooklyn-NYC scene. Significantly, she co-created performance art with percussionist Michael Evans and currently is curator of her Susan’s Salons in both Birmingham and Brooklyn.

Her work often grows from visual wit and ironic images, intended to deliver an irreverent message of freedom while lampooning societal rigidities. Zany images are brought to life through a feminist lens, and the dance language is drawn from physical manifestations of human emotions. Through a process of improvisation and revision she seeks a range of authentic expression, human and vulnerable. Susan and LaDonna will come together for one of a kind collaborative performance at BMCM+AC.

John English is an improviser and photographer from Black Mountain, North Carolina. Kris Gruda is an avant-garde guitarist, sound experimenter, and songwriter based in western North Carolina. He plays in solo and group contexts on electric or acoustic with or without electronics. His guitar-in-car album, Kris Gruda Plays for You, was released on Palilalia Records in 2023. FreeJazzRockSoulNoise.etc.

Friday, February 9, 2024
80s vs 90s Dance Party
Feb 9 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

All Ages

Rouge: A Cirque and Dance Concert
Feb 9 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Expect the unexpected! From Charlotte, Caroline Calouche & Co is making their debut in Asheville with Rouge: A Cirque and Dance Cabaret. Rouge features daring aerial acts, thrilling acrobatics and poetic dance that cannot be missed. The Madame of Ceremonies is your guide for a mesmerizing good time that holds audiences spellbound. Rouge is the perfect event for a date night or night out with friends.

https://www.carolinecalouche.org/

Rouge: Cirque and Dance Cabaret
Feb 9 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Expect the Unexpected!
Rouge features daring aerial acts, thrilling acrobatics and poetic dance that cannot be missed. The Madame of Ceremonies is your guide for a mesmerizing good time that holds audiences spellbound. Rouge is the perfect event for a date night or night out with friends.

Saturday, February 10, 2024
Adult Beginner Tap 1: Intro to Tap
Feb 10 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Hendersonville Theatre

Does Tap dancing seem a little daunting? Is it something you always wanted to try but didn’t have the time to commit to months of classes at a time? Whether you are preparing for a show with tap involved or just interested in a new skill for fun, this class is for you. Allison Starling will break down the basics of Tap into easy-to-catch moves that build the foundation of any Tap number. This 8-week class is a comprehensive basics course that you don’t want to miss!

*Tap shoes required and not provided. Below is a link to some reasonably priced shoes. Make sure to order early so your shoes are here in time!

Adult Beginner Tap 2: Kicking it up a Notch
Feb 10 @ 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

It’s time to build on the basics you learned in Intro to Tap while still refining those foundational steps. Whether you are preparing for a show with tap involved or just interested in a new skill for fun, this class is for you. Allison Starling will break down the basics of Tap into easy-to-catch moves that build the foundation of any Tap number. This 8-week class is a continuation of beginner tap that will push you to learn harder steps and combinations while still allowing you to learn at your own pace!

WNC Dance Repertory Company Benefit Showcase
Feb 10 @ 5:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

WNC Dance Academy presents our annual winter benefit concert featuring the WNC Dance Repertory Company, Stewart/Owen Dance, and other professional local artists.

Going Nowhere Fast – Emo Night
Feb 10 @ 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
DSSOLVR

EMO NIGHT IS BACK BABY! THIS TIME, WE’RE GOING ON TOUR!

Get ready for…
🖤😭 DSSOLVR’S SUPER EMO VALENTINE’S WEEKEND! 😭🖤
02/10 in Asheville starting at 6pm

Featuring:
-Sing along with DJ XZANEINSANEX @zanebuchholz, @djdeckades, and @dj_sellout
-The Release of Emo Nightmare GF Sour
-Swoopy Hair Photo Booth
-One time only Emo long sleeve shirts
-The Return of L.G. FUAD Jello Shots
-VIP Tour Badges
-Probably more stuff that I forgot

Then the party continues, on Sunday with the BIG GAME playing in both taprooms. 😭💀🏈💀😭💀🏈💀😭💀🏈💀😭

Party on,
xXDSSOLVRXx

Sunday, February 11, 2024
Kids Artistic Review Dance Competition
Feb 11 all-day
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

KAR is dedicated to producing world class dance events that provide rewarding and positive experiences for dancers, teachers, and parents. Our competitions give dancers across America the opportunity to showcase their talent and passion on the KAR stage. We also proudly acknowledge the achievements and excellence of dance teachers, choreographers, and parents and appreciate their efforts in helping to make dreams come true! KAR is honored to be recognized as America’s Favorite Dance Competition and look forward to seeing the amazing talent your city has to offer!

Kendra Bunch

(714) 826-8440 ext 1020
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
DRUM TAO 夢幻響
Feb 13 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Experience the thrilling rhythms of Japan, the electrifying energy of passionate, percussive performance and the otherworldly theatrical flair of these professional taiko drummers. With vibrant costumes, synchronized movements and thunderous beats, Drum Tao creates a mesmerizing spectacle that’s sure to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment — delivering the spirit of traditional Japanese drumming with all the excitement of contemporary culture.

Fat Tuesday Fiesta ft Tuxedo Junction
Feb 13 @ 7:00 pm
The Grey Eagle
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
-ALL AGES
-MIXED SEATED and STANDING SHOW with DANCE FLOOR

TUXEDO JUNCTION

Calling all music lovers, dancers, and supporters of a worthy cause! Celebrate Mardi Gras during a singular evening benefitting the Asheville Breakfast Rotary Foundation! Tuxedo Junction covers a HUGE variety of danceable hits from Swing Jazz to Classic Rock, Pop, Funk, Motown, Beach, Country, and Rockabilly! All proceeds go back into the community for charitable organizations and scholarships.