Asheville
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a haven for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. This vibrant city boasts stunning scenery with the Blue Ridge Parkway, often dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive,” providing unparalleled views of the Appalachian wilderness. In autumn, the mountains burst with fiery reds and golds, creating one of the most picturesque fall displays in the U.S. Beyond its natural beauty, Asheville is also known for its thriving arts scene, with over 25 galleries lining the streets of the River Arts District. Visitors can watch local artists at work, browse handcrafted pieces, and even take part in workshops.
Asheville is home to one of the nation’s most iconic architectural wonders—the Biltmore Estate. Built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century, this grand mansion remains America’s largest privately-owned home, boasting 250 rooms and meticulously landscaped gardens. Tour the opulent rooms, stroll through the lush gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, and sip local wines at the Biltmore Winery. The estate is especially magical during the holiday season when it’s decked out with thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations.
The city’s rich history blends seamlessly with its modern, bohemian spirit. Downtown Asheville is a culinary hotspot, offering farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and lively street performances. Be sure to stop by Pack Square Park, where the city’s historic roots are on display alongside vibrant public art. Asheville is also known for its progressive vibe, and you can explore this by wandering through the quirky shops and cafes or visiting the famous drum circle that takes place every Friday night in Pritchard Park.
Fun fact: Asheville’s laid-back atmosphere has attracted many famous residents over the years, including writer Thomas Wolfe, whose boyhood home is now a museum. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and Southern hospitality, Asheville is a city that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Learn More About Asheville
Open Mic with Mike Andersen
From 6/9/2024 - 6/1/2025
At Open Mic Night, attendees can expect an eclectic mix of music, poetry, and comedy delivered through a powerful sound system. Adding to its charm, the event takes an extra leap with host Mike Andersen, a seasoned sound engineer known for his unwavering dedication and strong expertise.
Family Sunday Funday
From 12/1/2024 - 3/30/2025
Every Sunday teems with robust flavors from Haywood Common and complementing satisfying drinks. Weather permitting, the cherry on top includes enticing kid's crafts and complimentary patio s'mores.
Asheville City Market
From 1/4/2025 - 3/29/2025
Visitors to the Asheville City Market can expect a vibrant hub teeming with fresh locally-sourced produce and artisanal products. They can benefit from assured parking accommodations for standard and handicap vehicles, and the convenience of nearby public transportation stops.
Winter at Biltmore
From 1/6/2025 - 3/31/2025
Escape to Winter at Biltmore and explore the 8,000-acre estate in all of its frosty glory. Experience the annual Winter Light at Biltmore Festival of Lights, taking in the yuletide decorations and historic charm as you explore the estate. Afterward, warm up with a cozy stay in one of the estate's plush bedrooms, enjoying the inviting comforts of your home away from home.
Biltmore Blooms/Spring
From 3/21/2025 - 5/22/2025
Meander down paths of blooming roses and peonies under the elegant shadows of a European mansion at the award-winning Biltmore Estate. In the beauty of the lush gardens, Biltmore Blooms features more than 100,000 spring flowers, outdoor activities, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Don't forget to frolic over to the Biltmore Winery, where you can unwind with a glass of wine in a charming historic setting.
Biltmore Festival of Flowers
From 3/21/2025 - 5/22/2025
The Biltmore Festival of Flowers is a stunning annual event that transforms the iconic Biltmore Estate into a breathtaking garden of color. With over 100,000 tulips, daffodils, and other vibrant blooms on display, visitors can explore the meticulously manicured gardens and experience the beauty of spring at its finest.
Asheville Orchid Festival
From 3/28/2025 - 3/30/2025
Plunge into sensory pleasures at the Asheville Orchid Festival: a tantalizing display of colors and scents. Benefiting from complimentary access to exhibits, sales areas, and demonstrations, guests can join the Western North Carolina Orchid Society for a wonder-filled and cost-free journey.
Bleeding Heart's Literary Open Mic
On 3/28/2025
Bleeding Heart is a free monthly open mic event designed to promote community interaction and foster uninhibited creativity. Nurturing both listeners and sharers alike, it aims to build an enlightening entertainment platform where expression takes center stage.
Yoga in the Park
On 4/2/2025
Embrace the calming and zen-filled atmosphere of outdoor yoga sessions under the tranquil tree canopies. These weekly indulgences are tailored to fit a wide range of physical abilities with the availability of numerous modifications.
Dan Alten
On 4/3/2025
For a night of quirky, hilarious entertainment, enjoy a performance by comedy powerhouse Dan Alten, known for his surreal brand of humor he's shared across 30 states. Adding to his credibility and comic genius, Alten has written a zine, produced two comedy albums, and even recorded a stand-up pilot for Amazon Prime, ensuring plentiful laughter and well-crafted jokes for attendees.
Neal Francis
On 4/3/2025
Neal Francis O’Hara was born in Oak Brook, Illinois. Neal Francis is a Chicago songwriter, pianist, and singer who began his career as a blues sideman at a young age. Francis's album, "In Plain Sight", was released in 2021 as the follow-up to his successful debut, "Changes."
Flowertown Festival
From 4/4/2025 - 4/6/2025
Celebrate the beauty of spring at the Flowertown Festival, one of the largest arts and crafts festivals in the region. This annual event features hundreds of vendors, live entertainment, delicious food, and beautiful floral displays, all set in the picturesque town of Summerville.
Springfest Craft Show
On 4/5/2025
At the Burnsville Spring Fest Craft Show, a breadth of locally crafted goods awaits, boasting arrays from paintings to teddy bears, beeswax candles, and delicious goodies. Seize a chance to marvel at unique gift items woven intricately with deep craftsmanship while indulging in the vibrant spirit of spring.
Asheville Maker Faire
On 4/5/2025
Maker Faire offers a universe where inventions, creativity, and resourcefulness take center stage in this family-friendly event. Attendees will have the opportunity to marvel at cutting-edge inventions and foster their own creative skills amidst a bustling atmosphere of ingenuity and innovation.
Yonder Mountain String Band
On 4/6/2025
Hailing from Colorado, Yonder Mountain String Band is a progressive bluegrass group formed in 1998. Several of their albums, including The Show, have topped the Billboard Grassroots chart. Their popular singles include "Dancing in the Moonlight," "Half Moon Rising," and "Two Hits and the Joint Turned Brown."
MercyMe
On 4/10/2025
MercyMe is a contemporary Christian music band from Oklahoma who had many Top 5 singles on the Billboard Christian Songs chart after releasing the triple platinum debut album Almost There.
Bored Teachers
On 4/10/2025
The Bored Teachers comedy tour is an electrifying journey through the comedic minds of the most hilarious educators in the field. From the uproarious anecdotes of the classroom to the sharp wit of the staff room, this tour offers an unparalleled onslaught of jokes, skits and stories that will have you rolling in the aisles.
Larry Fleet
On 4/10/2025
Hailing from Tennessee, Larry Fleet has garnered attention with his distinctive baritone sound that combines traditional country influences with a modern edge. Fleet has released several notable songs such as "Where I Find God," which showcases his heartfelt vocal delivery.
Ty Segall
On 4/11/2025
Ty Segall is a prolific American musician known for his raw, experimental approach to rock music. Hailing from California, Segall’s sound blends elements of garage rock, psych, and lo-fi with his own unique flair. His intense and often gritty performances, combined with his ability to seamlessly shift between various styles, have made him a respected figure in the alternative music scene. Segall's expansive discography showcases his versatility, from fuzzy, high-energy tracks to more introspective, mellow tunes. His dynamic style and creative output have solidified him as one of the most innovative artists of his generation.
Neon Trees
On 3/31/2025
Neon Trees is an American rock band that blends pop, rock, and new wave influences to create an energetic and infectious sound. Known for their catchy hooks and dynamic performances, the band gained widespread attention with their hit single "Animal." Neon Trees' music combines upbeat, danceable rhythms with introspective lyrics, often exploring themes of love, identity, and personal growth. Their vibrant and genre-crossing style has made them a standout act in the alternative and pop-rock scenes.
Walking Meditation in the Park
On 4/17/2025
Meditation provides a way of learning how to let go. Find balance and serenity as this meditation class will lead you through a series of reflective and calming exercises that promote well-being and inner peace.
Mark Normand
On 4/18/2025
Mark Normand is a stand-up comedian and actor from Louisiana. Performing since 2006, he now goes on tours across the USA and has appeared on many popular TV shows including The Late Show, The Tonight Show, and Conan. He's also co-hosted the weekly podcast, Tuesdays with Stories, since 2013.
Taylor Swift Night
On 4/18/2025
Designed by die-heart Swifties, Taylor Swift Night: The Taylor Party is for the ultimate fans of Taylor Swift who would like to spend the night dancing and singing along to her songs non-stop.
Into The Woods
From 4/11/2025 - 5/4/2025
Into the Woods presents a magical musical adventure, combining classic fairy tales into one captivating dark story surrounding a childless baker and his wife attempting to undo a witch's curse. Filled with comedic dialogue and thrilling plots involving known characters such as Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, and Jack of the Beanstalk, attendees are given a chance to see dreams manifest, often with unpredictable, mounting tension.
Kyle Gordon
On 4/18/2025
Prepare to laugh and sing along at Kyle Gordon and his Band's unique musical comedy show, where humorous hits mix with brand-new, never-before-heard tunes. Enjoy a memorable night full of much-loved numbers such as The Irish Drinking Song, Worst Life Ever, and the catchy Planet of the Bass.
Gluten-Free Comedy
On 4/19/2025
Modelface Comedy is ready to deliver a generous helping of hilarity with top-notch comedians from diverse areas, along with cherished local talents. Their thrilling event, Gluten-Free Comedy, is poised to highlight the creme de la creme of comedic genius from Asheville and beyond.
Inside Flow
On 4/20/2025
At the Inner-Yogi Inside Flow event, attendees will experience the beautiful unison of breath, movement, and music in carefully sequenced poses. By melding yoga with rhythmic music, it transforms into a moving meditation, sparking sensory tensions and staging a visceral journey of self-expression.
