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.
American Made
From 10/18/2024 - 2/10/2025
American Made: Paintings and Sculpture from the DeMell Jacobsen Collection immerse attendees in a sophisticated journey, covering from Columbian-era art to mid-19th-century landscapes. Viewing over 100 renowned pieces, attendees can delve into the unique exploration of powerful ideas articulated through varied distinct styles.
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.
River Arts District Farmers Market
On 2/5/2025
The rejuvenated market, after withstanding relocation due to Hurricane Helene, is poised anew to offer an abundant spectrum of fresh produce and artisanal fares. Keep up-to-date with the latest event highlights by tracking their social media accounts and newsletter subscriptions.
Yamato The Drummers of Japan
From 2/12/2025 - 2/13/2025
The event provides a fearless trek saturated in Japanese tradition, punctuated by a captivating exhibit of 40+ Taiko drums resonating strong beats. Attendees are in for a demonstration of profound human power and resilience in a distinguished showcase steadfastly countering the influence of AI in the arts, affirming the inimitable vibrancy of the human spirit.
Yikes: Dating Disaster Comedy with Sarah Love
On 2/13/2025
Immerse yourself in an evening of relieving laughter at Yikes, a tremendously amusing event that amusingly portrays catastrophic dates and other awkward situations, led by local comedy alcove, Sarah Love. Attendees have the added advantage of both bringing their own food and enjoying delective snacks readily available on-site.
Asheville Restaurant Week
From 2/14/2025 - 2/24/2025
Asheville Restaurant Week invites attendees on a gastronomical trip featuring the city's most intriguing cuisine. A meticulously crafted three-course menu offers delicious choices, buoying between French Onion Soup to begin, main courses encompassing Chicken Marsala and Wild Mushroom Fettuccine Piccata, and neatly wraps up with a diversity of desserts including a seasonal pie or a peppermint chocolate cake.
Plant Club Pop-Up Market
On 2/15/2025
At the Art Garden AVL event, attendees can bask in the beauty of expansive canopies and savor delicacies from The Pot Stirred. The spectacular array of offerings includes rare tropical plants, native medicinal plants, handmade garden accessories, botanical artworks, lush bouquets, herbal salves, teas, and a wealth of commercial goods from local growers and craftspeople.
Marc Maron
On 2/20/2025
Marc Maron is a stand-up comedian, podcaster, writer, actor, and musician from New Jersey. Along with appearing up to forty times on TV shows like Late Show with David Letterman and Late Night with Conan O'Brien, he has hosted radio shows and interviewed Barack Obama. Now he is best known for hosting the bi-weekly podcast, WTF with Marc Maron.
I Hate Hamlet by Paul Rudnick
On 2/21/2025
Get ready for the remarkable spectacle that is Hamlet, as tragedy, villains, and love come alive on stage. Marvel as the outstanding cast captivates and enchants viewers with a heartbreaking journey through classical literature.
Asheville Anime-Fest
On 2/22/2025
Explore AnimeFest, an exciting celebration of all things anime. Enjoy panels, workshops, cosplay, gaming, an exhibitor hall, and the colorful characters of the anime world.
Billy Strings
On 2/6/2025
Aptly named young guitarist, Billy Strings, reached the #1 spot on both Bluegrass and Heatseekers charts with his 2019 album, “Home,” which later won a Grammy. Rolling Stone called him one of the “Top 10 New Country Artists To Know” in 2017 and a "Bluegrass Prodigy" in 2018.
Andy Frasco
On 2/22/2025
Andy Frasco is the lead vocalist of the blues-rock band, Andy Frasco and the U.N. The band is known for its energetic performances and impromptu battles between band members during their live performances. Audiences are encouraged to participate in their performances, with Andy interacting with them.
Bryce Vine
On 2/26/2025
Bryce Vine is an American rapper and singer whose debut album, "Carnival," reached US Billboard Hot 100, with two songs, "Drew Barrymore," and "La La Land." He initially gained recognition by becoming a finalist on the reality series, "The Glee Project."
Bleeding Heart's Literary Open Mic
On 2/28/2025
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.
Flogging Molly
On 2/28/2025
Flogging Molly is an Irish-American punk band. They were formed in 1997, in Los Angeles. Their lead vocalist's name is Dave King. They have a live album, named, Alive Behind the Green Door. They own Borstal Beat Records, to which they are signed.
Jeff Dunham
On 2/5/2025
Jeff Dunham is a ventriloquist, comedian, and actor. In 2009, Jeff starred in his comedy special which aired on Comedy Central. Jeff has also had six different shows that have appeared on the channel. Jeff Dunham has toured several cities, thrilling audiences with his ventriloquism act.
Josh Johnson
On 2/14/2025
Josh Johnson is a stand-up comedian, musician, and writer from Louisiana who has toured with Trevor Noah. He has been a writer for The Tonight Show, then The Daily Show since 2017 and also became the funniest stand up at the New York Comedy Festival in 2018.
Niko Moon
On 2/27/2025
Niko Moon is a Nashville-based country-pop singer and songwriter. Dierks Bentley, Zac Brown Band, Rascal Flatts, and Morgan Wallen are among the artists he has written songs for. Along with Zac Brown and Ben Simonetti, he was a Sir Rosevelt's band member.
Empire Strikes Brass: 11th Annual Mardi Gras Party
On 3/1/2025
Empire Strikes Brass brings a burst of BrassFunkRock, tight and compelling, direct from North Carolina. Succumb to the riveting mix of Debrissa McKinney's saxophone melodies and Tim Morgan's sky-high trumpeting, all within an energetic repertoire honoring musical roots yet exploring diverse influences.
Town Mountain
On 2/8/2025
Town Mountain is an award-winning traditional bluegrass band from Asheville, North Carolina. The quintet is comprised of Robert Greer (vocals, guitar), Jesse Langlais (banjo), Phil Barker (mandolin), Bobby Britt (fiddle), and Nick DiSebastian (upright bass). Town Mountain’s album, New Freedom Blues, won the International Bluegrass Music Association’s award for Recorded Event of the Year.
Joy Oladokun
On 2/12/2025
Joy Oladokun is a rising star in the rock music world, capturing audiences around the world with her evocative, emotive lyrics and high-energy performances. Oladokun's most popular tracks such as "Me and Mine," "What's the Use," and "In and Out of Love" showcase her depth and breadth as an artist, with powerful, soul-stirring melodies and poignant lyrics that speak to the modern experience. Experience Joy Oladokun's vivid music today and be sure to catch one of her live shows, you won't regret it.
Tim Heidecker
On 2/13/2025
Tim Heidecker is a multi-talented comedian, musician, and filmmaker best known for his absurdist and satirical humor. As one-half of the duo behind "Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!", he has pushed the boundaries of alternative comedy. His music, often blending folk and rock with biting social commentary, further showcases his unique artistic voice. Along with starring in the web series Decker since 2014, he has also appeared in popular movies like Bridesmaids, Us and Ant-Man and The Wasp.
Marc Broussard
On 2/23/2025
Marc Broussard is a singer and songwriter from Louisiana who is known for his Bayou soul style that combines funk, blues, rock, pop, and R&B. With singles like “Love And Happiness,” “Cry to Me,” and “Home,” he charted twice on the Hot Adult Top 40 Tracks.
Asheville Mardi Gras Parade
On 3/2/2025
This lively parade provides a colorful relief to the bleakness of winter, featuring whimsical displays infused with creativity and humor. Radiating the energy of motivated participants, it encourages art and political satire, the scattering of beads into the crowd amplifying the excitement, whilst upholding safe, spirited traditions for all ages without the involvement of alcohol, enlivening the 'Mardi Gras in the mountains' encounter.
