Events
Guided Forest Bathing & Nature Therapy
Escape to Asheville’s Blue Ridge Mountains for a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience: a guided forest bathing retreat!
Asheville Strong Art Exhibit
The Asheville Art Museum is proud to present Asheville Strong: Celebrating Art and Community After Hurricane Helene, a poignant and inspiring exhibition on view from February 13–May 5, 2025. This non-juried exhibition showcases works by artists from the Helene-affected Appalachia region. The Museum wanted to provide an opportunity and venue for impacted artists to showcase their work, connect, and join together in a collective act of resilience.
Asheville Strong will showcase a range of works including painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, and photography—reflecting the profound experiences of a community rebuilding through art.
Jeeves Saves the Day
Anglophiles rejoice! Everyone’s favorite British valet is in Asheville for four additional performances of Jeeves Saves the Day at NC Stage! Grab your ticket to one of the most successful titles in the theatre’s history and enjoy an evening full of laughs with this clever comedy.
New Moon Sound Bath at The Restoration Hotel
Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of a wide variety of instruments including crystal bowls, gongs, didgeridoo, handpans, flutes, chimes, and so much more!
Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors”
Shakespeare's quintessential farce "The Comedy of Errors" is told through a new and contemporary lens that reinterprets antiquated slang, metaphor and double-entendre with updated jokes and clever, modern wordplay.
Goat Yoga
Imagine moving through your sun salutation in a wide open field as baby goats frolic nearby. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and revel in the expansiveness of wide open spaces.
Blue Ridge Orchestra’s March Melodrama
The Blue Ridge Orchestra continues celebrating its 25th Anniversary Season with two performances of “March Melodrama”. Franklin Keel, Asheville’s talented musician, cellist, and composer who has made several solo appearances with the BRO, will lead the orchestra as Guest Conductor.
August Wilson's Two Trains Running
Pulitzer Prize finalist playwright August Wilson's Tony-nominated play "Two Trains Running" paints a profound portrait of history through everyday life amid the civil rights movement.
White Party Open House
Come dressed in your best white attire and experience an evening of elegance, delicious bites, and incredible entertainment. Whether you're planning an event or just want to enjoy a stylish night out, this is the perfect opportunity to explore what The Venue has to offer! See you there!
Guided Blue Ghost Firefly Night Tour
Immerse yourself in the magic of twilight and experience the wonders of nighttime in the Blue Ridge Mountains. From sunset and starry skies to fireflies, we’ll marvel at Mother Nature’s light show as we explore the forest at night, hoping to encounter the elusive Blue Ghost firefly species!
Blue Ghost Firefly Overnight Retreat
Immerse yourself in the magic of twilight and experience the wonders of nighttime in the Blue Ridge Mountains. From sunset and starry skies to fireflies, we’ll marvel at Mother Nature’s light show as we explore the forest hoping to encounter the elusive Blue Ghost firefly species!
Community Concert featuring the Steep Canyon Rangers
The highly anticipated Community Concert is returning to Pack Square Park in Downtown Asheville on Thursday, May 29, 2025, and this year’s lineup promises to deliver another unforgettable evening of live music, local food, and community spirit. The event will feature Steep Canyon Rangers, one of the most renowned names in bluegrass and Americana music, along with the incredible opening act, Sam Burchfield and the Scoundrels. The Community Concert is presented by Oskar Blues Brewery, Dale’s, and Fred Anderson Subaru.
YAMATO: The Drummers of Japan
In this returning favorite artist’s new production, take a thrilling, high-energy ride through centuries of Japanese tradition, where heart-thumping rhythms explode from a dizzying display of Taiko drums. The power of human strength, tenacity and sheer endurance lie at the heart of this program, “人の力 Hito no Chikara,” which challenges the influence of artificial intelligence on art.
Chestnut’s Pre-Valentine’s Day Special
Chestnut invites guests to celebrate love early with a Pre-Valentine’s Day Special, available Monday, February 10th, through Thursday, February 13th. This four-course tasting experience, paired with expertly selected wines, offers the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in downtown Asheville this year.
2nd Saturdays
Every second Saturday of the month, the Asheville Artist Coalition will open the doors of the Refinery Building in South Slope to the public for a free movie and gallery stroll of the artists who reside there. The film will be shown in our gallery space and will focus on any number of artistic mediums. You can RSVP for the film here. There will be snacks and drinks, with free parking available while spots last in our back lot and along Coxe Ave.
This month's film is Through A Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of a People. This is the first documentary to explore the role of photography in shaping the identity, aspirations, and social emergence of African Americans from slavery to the present, Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of a People probes the recesses of American history through images that have been suppressed, forgotten, and lost.
There are 23 total seats available. Please follow the registration link to make sure you can reserve your seat. Seats are folding chairs and a couch that counts as two seats. The movie will start at 5 p.m.
Voices of Impact
On Friday, February 7, 2025, at the historic Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, Voices of Impact will host a transformative evening designed to inspire change, foster connection, and amplify powerful initiatives, including raising funds for Regenerating Asheville. From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, attendees will experience a powerful lineup of speakers who are reshaping how we think about leadership, community, and the future. This event is an opportunity to pause, connect, and recharge—bringing a sense of hope and renewed energy to Asheville’s vibrant community.
Illuminate Asheville
The Merchants of Downtown Asheville in collaboration with The Asheville Downtown Association invites you to “Illuminate Asheville” February 6-16. Join us as we bring light back downtown during our dark season. We could all use some beauty, joy and light these days, so grab your friends and family and come down to support small businesses. Help us celebrate what makes Asheville unique in the heart of our city.
Billy Fans Bingo
The Asheville Downtown Association, in partnership with the Merchants of Downtown, is excited to host Billy Fans Bingo during the six sold-out Billy Strings concerts! It’s your chance to explore Downtown Asheville and win $500 in prizes!
Shop Small, Win Big
Support Downtown Asheville businesses this holiday season with Shop Small, Win Big, a rewards program in partnership with Bank of America. From November 25 to December 22, every in-person purchase of $25 or more at participating businesses gives you the chance to win big.
Asheville Holiday Jamboree presented by Bojangles
Kick off the holiday season in Pack Square Park with performances, free photos with Santa, and a holiday market!
Halloween Block Party
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Asheville Downtown Association is organizing a Soft Opening of Downtown Businesses on October 19 and October 26. We invite all businesses to participate by displaying a balloon on their door, signaling their readiness to welcome back locals and visitors to Downtown.
This initiative aims to support our community's recovery and encourage residents and visitors to reconnect with the local businesses that form the heart of our Downtown area.
Additionally, we will host a Doors Open Downtown Halloween Block Party on Thursday, October 31, from 4 PM to 7 PM. This event will provide a safe space for families and individuals to engage with our local community while enjoying:
Trick-or-Treating at participating businesses
Kids' Activities, including tile painting at Fired Up
A Dog Costume Contest at Spicer Green Jewelers
Live Music and other activities
“We understand that the recent events have impacted our community deeply,” said Hayden Plemmons, Executive Director of the Asheville Downtown Association. “Our goal with these initiatives is to help facilitate healing and encourage support for our local businesses as we work toward recovery.”
Residents and visitors are encouraged to come together during this time and support our downtown businesses. For those interested in participating in the soft openings, simply display a balloon on your door.
Contact:
Hayden Plemmons
Executive Director
Asheville Downtown Association
Email: info@ashevilledowntown.org
Doors Open Downtown
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Asheville Downtown Association is organizing a Soft Opening of Downtown Businesses on October 19 and October 26. We invite all businesses to participate by displaying a balloon on their door, signaling their readiness to welcome back locals and visitors to Downtown.
This initiative aims to support our community's recovery and encourage residents and visitors to reconnect with the local businesses that form the heart of our Downtown area.
Additionally, we will host a Doors Open Downtown Halloween Block Party on Thursday, October 31, from 4 PM to 7 PM. This event will provide a safe space for families and individuals to engage with our local community while enjoying:
Trick-or-Treating at participating businesses
Kids' Activities, including tile painting at Fired Up
A Dog Costume Contest at Spicer Green Jewelers
Live Music and other activities
“We understand that the recent events have impacted our community deeply,” said Hayden Plemmons, Executive Director of the Asheville Downtown Association. “Our goal with these initiatives is to help facilitate healing and encourage support for our local businesses as we work toward recovery.”
Residents and visitors are encouraged to come together during this time and support our downtown businesses. For those interested in participating in the soft openings, simply display a balloon on your door.
Contact:
Hayden Plemmons
Executive Director
Asheville Downtown Association
Email: info@ashevilledowntown.org
Small Business Info Session: Recovery Update
We’re continuing our efforts to support businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene with another informative session. Join us on Thursday, October 24, at Mojo Coworking, where we’ll provide important updates on the resources available to help your business recover.
This session will include a conversation with the North Carolina Attorney General and NC Insurance Commissioner, along with other City and County leaders, who will discuss ongoing recovery efforts and available support. It’s a valuable opportunity to stay informed and ask any questions you may have regarding next steps in the recovery process.
In-person attendees must register online.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, October 24
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Livestream: Watch online at 828newsNOW.com
Community Partners
This session is made possible with the support of our community partners, including the Asheville Downtown Association, Go Local, Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, Arts AVL, Asheville Brewer’s Alliance, Explore Asheville, Asheville Independent Restaurants, Black Wall Street, Asheville Buncombe Hotel Association, Blue Ridge Pride, Thrive Asheville, and YMI Cultural Center.
We’re committed to ensuring you have the information and resources necessary to navigate this challenging time. We hope to see you there!
Candlelight Vigil
A message from Asheville City Council member Maggie Ullman:
I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting today. I suppose it’s difficult to stay cheery and positive all the time, and that’s okay. I think that’s to be expected as we navigate the feelings we all have about such profound loss and devastation that so many of our community members have experienced. This storm was more than just a weather event; it altered lives, reshaped our community, and left scars that will take time to heal.
Many have faced the unimaginable – losing homes, cherished possessions, and even, in some tragic cases, loved ones. The sheer force of the storm tested our resilience, and the days that followed revealed the extent of the destruction. For those who were displaced, the challenges have been immense, and the road to recovery will require not only time but also support from each of us.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, it has been heartening to see our community come together. Neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers mobilizing to assist with clean-up efforts, and local organizations stepping up to provide resources for those in need. This spirit of solidarity is what defines us as a community, and it will be that same spirit that leads us through the recovery process.
In line with that spirit of coming together, I’m asking you all to join me, Mayor Manheimer, my fellow council members, county commissioners, and our legislative delegation on Tuesday, October 22. We’ll be gathering in Pack Square Park for a candlelight vigil at 6:00 PM. We’ll join as one and remember. We’ll remember what was here before. We’ll remember when life seemed simpler somehow. We’ll remember and reaffirm how important it is to care for each other.
As we begin to rebuild, we must also remember the lessons that this storm has taught us. This is a challenging time for all of us, but I believe in the strength of our community. Together, we will honor those who have lost so much by demonstrating our unwavering resilience. Let us rebuild not only with bricks and mortar but also with compassion, understanding, and solidarity. Healing is not just about rebuilding homes; it’s about restoring a sense of normalcy, fostering connections, and supporting one another in every way possible.
Doors Open Downtown
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Asheville Downtown Association is organizing a Soft Opening of Downtown Businesses on October 19 and October 26. We invite all businesses to participate by displaying a balloon on their door, signaling their readiness to welcome back locals and visitors to Downtown.
This initiative aims to support our community's recovery and encourage residents and visitors to reconnect with the local businesses that form the heart of our Downtown area.
Additionally, we will host a Doors Open Downtown Halloween Block Party on Thursday, October 31, from 4 PM to 7 PM. This event will provide a safe space for families and individuals to engage with our local community while enjoying:
Trick-or-Treating at participating businesses
Kids' Activities, including tile painting at Fired Up
A Dog Costume Contest at Spicer Green Jewelers
Live Music and other activities
“We understand that the recent events have impacted our community deeply,” said Hayden Plemmons, Executive Director of the Asheville Downtown Association. “Our goal with these initiatives is to help facilitate healing and encourage support for our local businesses as we work toward recovery.”
Residents and visitors are encouraged to come together during this time and support our downtown businesses. For those interested in participating in the soft openings, simply display a balloon on your door.
Contact:
Hayden Plemmons
Executive Director
Asheville Downtown Association
Email: info@ashevilledowntown.org
Small Business Info Session: Navigating Reopening
Small Business Info Session: Navigating Reopening
Join us for the next session in our small business recovery series, Navigating Reopening, where we'll focus on the crucial steps needed to reopen your business once water is restored. This session will provide essential guidance on how to ensure your business is ready to welcome customers back, and what to do if you're still facing challenges with water access.
We'll be hearing from key local experts, including representatives from the Buncombe County Health Department, City of Asheville Economic Development, and the Asheville Fire Department, who will share critical information on health and safety standards, economic support, and reopening procedures.
Additionally, local organizations working to activate our streets and bring customers back to Downtown Asheville will offer insights on how they’re mobilizing to reinvigorate the city and attract foot traffic to your businesses.
Whether your water is back on or you're still waiting, this session will give you the tools and resources you need to move forward. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest updates and support as we continue to rebuild together.
Supporting Organizations
Asheville Downtown Association
Go Local
Arts AVL
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce
Asheville Brewer’s Alliance
Asheville Buncombe County Hotel Association
Asheville Independent Restaurants
Blue Ridge Pride
Black Wall Street
Explore Asheville
THRIVE Asheville
Can't make it to the event? Join the live stream on the Asheville Downtown Association Facebook Page.
Special thanks to Mojo Coworking and Bear’s BBQ for making this event possible.
Small Business Info Session: Financial Recovery
Join us for an informative session designed to help small businesses navigate the recovery landscape with valuable financial resources and support. This event will feature key speakers from various organizations that provide funding, guidance, and essential services tailored to aid local businesses in overcoming financial challenges related to Hurricane Helene.
Due to limited capacity, this event is open to business owners only. We ask that just one representative from each business register to attend.
Canceled: Asheville Oktoberfest
Join us for a festive gathering featuring 20+ local breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries. Indulge in delicious German-style cuisine from local food vendors and dance along to German tunes.
Downtown After 5
Closing out the series is September’s Outdoor Rec Fest with Riverlink. Featuring headliner Oliver Hazard and opener Paul McDonald. Celebrate Asheville's outdoor lifestyle by engaging with our outdoor recreation partners and vendors.
Boomtown Arts & Heritage FestAVL
This festival will be a vibrant tribute to Asheville's rich history, arts, and culture, showcasing an eclectic mix of performances, trail tours, and community-driven activities. From the city's storied past as a turn-of-the-century boomtown to its current status as a hub of creativity and innovation, the festival aims to celebrate and preserve the unique heritage that makes Asheville a beloved destination.
Downtown After 5
In collaboration with LEAF Global Arts, we're excited to bring back LEAF Downtown at Downtown After 5. Tito Puente Jr. will be headlining the event, with the LEAF Kono Band opening.
Downtown After 5
The official kick-off to AVL Fest, Asheville FM brings to the stage Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast as headliners, with The Greenliners opening.
Independence Day Block Party
Join us for a day of free family fun with the Amazing Air Dogs, live music, local vendors, and, of course, a fireworks show!
Pack Square Artisan Market
Downtown on Fridays, discover a delightful assortment of quality handmade goods from skilled makers at Asheville's weekly street party!
Downtown After 5
In a special collaboration with the MLK Foundation, we celebrate Juneteenth with the soulful Sierra Green & the Giants headlining and Lyric setting the mood.
Pritchard Park Culture & Arts Series
Join us for 10 weeks of free programming featuring a vibrant mix of arts, culture, and education. From live performances to interactive activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy Tuesday through Friday.