Looking for things to do in Hendersonville, NC? Whether you’re a local or just passing through we’ve got loads of great tips and events to help you find your perfect adventure.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Saturday, August 31, 2024
2024 Fairy Door Sponsor
Aug 31 all-day
Bullington Gardens

Last year, our fairy gardens attracted almost 9,000 visitors between June and August 2023. We see this as an opportunity to highlight Bullington’s circle of contributors through the sponsorship of a fairy door. The handcrafted doors will have the sponsor’s name, will be opened by guests to reveal a hidden message, and will be given to the sponsors when they are taken down after the summer.

Here are just a few statistics about the 2023 Fairy trail and sponsors from last year:

  • Visitors – Local visitors (from a 50-mile radius) numbered 2,647. Total visitors: over 8,700 from 18 countries, 41 different states, and D.C., 138 cities in N.C., 52 cities in S.C.

  • Appeared on WLOS and over 15 print publications.

  • Appeared in over a hundred social media posts (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.)

  • Acknowledgement of sponsors were printed on 1350 of the Woodland Gazettes that were given out to children as they visited.

  • Sponsors were highlighted in our Friends of Bullington newsletter.

The dates of the fairy garden will run from June 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024. Please consider being one of our ‘Sponsors with Heart’ by purchasing a fairy door. We need to hear from you no later than April 15, 2024, so we can customize your door and message in time for the grand opening of our Fairy Gardens kickoff.

Fairy Door Sponsor Information:

Thank you for supporting Bullington Gardens, and sharing our passion for providing WNC with magical public gardens aimed to connect to the natural world and provide science-based education.

Dates: June 1- August 31, 2024

Location: Bullington Gardens Fairy Trail, 95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville, NC 28792

Sponsor Benefits $350

  • Business or name listed on a medium (approx.) 12” fairy house doors. (You can help our artist to design if ordered early enough)

  • Recognition of sponsorship in Bullington Board newsletter.

  • Acknowledgment on the Bullington Gardens social media pages.

  • Sponsor logo and link on the Bullington Gardens website for 90 days

  • Donation is tax-deductible.

Invoices and tax-deductible receipts will be sent from Bullington Gardens, Inc. Please send payment and the form below by April 15, 2024. For any questions, please contact Annie Higgins at [email protected] or call (828) 698-6104

Sponsor a door here.

Recreation Park Swimming Pool
Aug 31 all-day
Recreation Park

Swimming Pools

Asheville Parks & Recreation’s public pools provide safe and affordable outdoor summer fun for all ages. For info about pool schedules, please call 828-348-4770 or visit ashevillecitypools.com.

Malvern Hills Park’s 90 year-old outdoor pool will not open this summer. While we were able to keep the facility operational through last summer, the pool can no longer be repaired to safely meet the needs of our community. For more, read this article.

Admission

  • Individual – $3 per session
  • Individual Season Pass – $100
  • Family Season Pass – $150 (up to four individuals)

Locations

Events

  • Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts hundreds of free and low-cost activities, programs, and events each month. Check out the latest program guide.
  • Pools will open Saturday, May 25!

    Dates of Operation:
    Grant Center Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Sunday, August 11th
    Recreation Park Pool: Saturday, May 25th through Monday, September 2nd, weekends only from
    August 12th through September 2nd

    Pools open weekends only until June 10th, with the exception of Monday, May 27!

    Hours of Operation June 10 through August 11:
    Monday through Friday – 12:00pm-6:00pm
    Saturday – 11:00am-6:00pm
    Sunday – 1:00pm-6:00pm

    Cost is $3 per person per day

Apple Festival Races Individual 5K and 8K, & Mini Moo Mile
Aug 31 @ 8:00 am
Pardee Cancer Center

The 2024 event will offer an Individual 8k run, an Individual 5k and the Chick-fil-A Mini Moo One Mile fun run. Come join us for this classic, family friendly Hendersonville event!

 

Free Event Shirt until deadline

All participants in the 8k and 5k will receive a free shirt with their registration until August 18th at midnight! Beginning August 19th, shirts will be available for $10 in limited quantities and sizes.

All Mini Moo participants will receive a Mini Moo shirt free with their registrations until Sunday, August 18th at midnight! Shirts will no longer be offered after that date.

Asheville Tourists vs. Hickory
Aug 31 @ 6:05 pm
McCormick Field

Asheville Blues Jersey Giveaway

Asheville Blues Jersey giveaway to the first 1,000 fans through the gates – Presented By Mission Health.
Sunday, September 1, 2024
Labor Day Weekend Fireworks Asheville Tourists vs. Hickory
Sep 1 @ 6:05 pm
McCormick Field

 

Labor Day Weekend Fireworks

Post-game Labor Day weekend fireworks show – Presented by Hedrick Industries.
Saturday, September 28, 2024
TreeTops 8.5 Mile Trail Race
Sep 28 @ 9:00 am
DuPont State Forest - Guion Farm

Join us Saturday, September 28, 2024 for the 2nd Annual TreeTops Trail Race in DuPont State Recreational Forest near Brevard, North Carolina!

This race offers a unique opportunity to explore the spectacular 10,000 acres of rolling hills and towering trees that make up this beautiful forest. Take on the 8.5 mile challenging trail race – but beware! With nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain it’s no walk in the park!

Celebrate your journey through nature with a super unique succulent plant for all participants. Join us at the Dupont Forest Festival afterwards from 10am – 3pm to visit with vendors, hike, yoga, bike, hunt waterfalls and learn outdoor recreation tips to last you a lifetime. Admission to the festival is FREE!

The TreeTops Trail Race is not just any ordinary event – it’s an exclusive experience only available within Dupont State Forest! So don’t miss out on this tree-mendous event and join us for an unforgettable journey through DuPont State Forest – roots down, branches up!

Friday, October 11, 2024
WWE Smackdown
Oct 11 @ 7:45 pm
Bon Secours Wellness Arena

See WWE Smackdown on October 11th in Greenville, SC! See your favorite Smackdown Superstars in action Live including:
“The American Nightmare” CODY RHODES, RANDY ORTON, LA KNIGHT, BAYLEY, BIANCA BELAIR, JADE CARGILL, SOLO SIKOA & BLOODLINE, NIA JAX, AND MANY MORE!

Sunday, October 13, 2024
Black Bear Half Marathon & 8k
Oct 13 @ 8:00 am
Jackson Park

Join us on Sunday, October 13th, 2024, for the 5th Annual Black Bear Half Marathon and 8k presented by Hunter Subaru!

The Black Bear Half Marathon & 8k is an exhilarating fall event that beckons both seasoned athletes and recreational runners alike. Nestled within the charm and beauty of Hendersonville, North Carolina, this race offers participants a unique opportunity to challenge their limits while immersing themselves in the splendor of the autumn season. Whether conquering the half marathon’s 13.1-mile stretch or embracing the spirited atmosphere of the 8k, participants love supportive community vibe, scenic course, and post-race festivities.

Both courses are USATF Sanctioned and Certified.

Saturday, October 26, 2024
Trick or Trail 5k & Spooky Sprint 1 Mile
Oct 26 @ 10:00 am
Nelon's Feed

The 10th Annual Trick or Trail 5k & Spooky Sprint 1 Mile presented by Hunter Subaru returns to the heart of Hendersonville for 2024!

Get ready to have some fun at the 10th Annual Trick or Trail 5k & Spooky Sprint 1 Mile, presented by Hunter Subaru! This Halloween-themed race will bring runners back to the heart of Hendersonville, NC, where they’ll start and finish in the Historic 7th Avenue District.

But that’s not all! The vibrant Fall Festival will be taking place at the Farmers’ Market, so you can expect a spooktacular atmosphere with costumes, decorations, and lots of great candy, snacks, and food!

This family favorite event promises a festive fusion of fitness and fall fun that you won’t want to miss. And, after the race, you can stroll over to the bustling Fall Festival for even more food, drinks, and vendors at the Farmers’ Market. So, come prepared to spook, sprint, and snack your way through this ghoulishly good time! (Don’t forget your cash for all the goodies!)

Sunday, October 27, 2024
Guest Appreciation Festival
Oct 27 @ 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Nantahala Outdoor Center

Come and join us at GAF 2024 for an exciting weekend full of fun and adventure! The event includes exciting races, kids’ activities, used boat sales starting online, and our Used Gear Marketplace and Artisan market.

You can also enjoy live music, delicious food, drinks, and riverside games in a family-friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the exclusive bargains available on boats, gear, and artisan crafts.

Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Mega Networking – Fall 2024
Nov 19 @ 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Asheville Sun Soo Martial Arts

Making connections is key to meeting business goals and building brand awareness. Mega Networking lets you do just that. In a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, you’ll meet business contacts from a variety of industries, gain exposure for your company and learn about other local businesses.

Held just twice a year, Mega Networking’s structured, “round robin” approach allows you to make valuable connections in a small group. Each person has a chance to share about their business, and a table leader moderates to put you at ease and keep the group on track. As you rotate from table to table, you’ll interact with most of the attendees, allowing you to make numerous connections in just one morning.

You’ll leave with great leads, great ideas and positive energy to keep your business moving forward.

Helpful tips:

  • *     Practice your “elevator speech” ahead of time so you can share your most important information in one minute.
  • *     Bring a little something to help others remember you and your business (something visual yet simple, AND your business card).
  • *     Stay “portable” — you’ll be moving from table to table throughout the morning.
  • *     If you’re a newcomer to this event, arrive a little early so you can settle in comfortably at your first table and learn the flow of the event without being rushed.
  • *     Schedule time now on your calendar to follow up soon with those you meet.

Cost is $50 per Chamber member, $85 for other attendees. 

Friday, November 22, 2024
2024 College Hockey Outdoor Classic – UNCC vs App State Men’s Ice Hockey
Nov 22 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Truist Field

Charlotte, NC – The UNC-Charlotte 49ers Ice Hockey Club will host the Appalachian State Mountaineers in a rematch for the 2024 Outdoor Classic hosted at Truist Field, Home of the Charlotte Knights. Last year was an overtime thriller that left fans wanting more!
The game will take place on Friday, November 22nd at 7 pm. This game is also a part of the Light the Knights Festival presented by Truist.
“The team is incredibly excited to come back to Truist for our third annual College Hockey Outdoor Classic,” said Charlotte 49ers Ice Hockey Club Head Coach, Tobin Trautz. “Each year the overall fan, and team, experiences have grown exponentially. Last year, with our dramatic overtime game vs App State – the fans and players enjoyed a very exciting, edge-of-your seat experience that we feel deserves a rematch. We are looking forward to an even more intense battle with App this year – outdoors and under the lights at Truist Field!”
The 49ers Ice Hockey Club team is part of the University Recreation Department. The team is partially funded thru the Student Activity Fee Commission, with the remainder of costs are player-funded through dues, sponsorships, and donations. It is also entirely student-run and features several Alumni on their staff. The team is a member of the ACCHL Division II (Atlantic Coast Conference Hockey League) which includes schools such as NC State, Duke, Elon, Wake Forest, and UNC-Charlotte.
Tickets for the 2024 Outdoor Classic can be purchased online at www.charlotteicehockey.com
·         $25 – Adults
·         $20 – Students w/ UNCC & App ID (At the Gate)
·         Hospitality Seating Also Available
*Limited student tickets are available at the door with proof of ID.
**All other tickets must be purchased online.
2024 OUTDOOR CLASSIC TO BENEFIT LOCAL CHARITIES IN THE CAROLINAS
The 2024 Outdoor Classic hosted by UNC Charlotte Men’s Ice Hockey Club vs Appalachian State University at Truist Field – Home of the Charlotte Knights – is proud to announce that this year’s event will support three local charities in our shared communities.
100% of ALL NET PROCEEDS of HOSPITALITY, BOX SUITES, & 50/50 RAFFLE SALES will be donated to the InReach & The Ability Experience – in support of empowering people living with disabilities in the Greater Charlotte community.
In addition, $5.00 from EVERY TICKET SOLD will be donated to HOSPITALITY HOUSE NORTHWEST NC – in support of their Hurricane Helene Recovery Fund – local to the App State community.
For more information on InReach, or to contribute directly, please visit www.inreachnc.org
For more information on The Ability Experience, or to contribute directly, please visit www.abilityexperience.org
For more information on Hospitality House Northwest cc, or to contribute directly, please visit www.hosphouse.org
For inquiries and information on how to support the team, please contact [email protected] or visit www.charlotteicehockey.com

Thursday, November 28, 2024
South Asheville Turkey Trot p/b Hunter Subaru
Nov 28 @ 9:00 am
Biltmore Park Town Square

Join us in Biltmore Park Town Square for the 6th Annual South Asheville Turkey Trot presented by Hunter Subaru!

This classic holiday tradition in South Asheville, NC includes a FREE comfy race shirt (through Nov 3rd), and a unique, custom FINISHER MEDAL!

The course is professionally chip-timed, fully-marked and USATF Certified!

24th Annual Asheville Turkey Trot 5k and Gobble Wobble 1 Mile Fun Run
Nov 28 @ 9:15 am – 10:30 am
Pack Square Park

The 24th Annual Asheville Turkey Trot 5K and Gobble Wobble 1 Mile Fun Run presented by Jus’ Running is Thanksgiving Day- Thursday, November 28, 2024. Portions of the proceeds will be donated to MANNA FoodBank. Come out with your family and friends to burn some calories before your Thanksgiving feast! Early packet pickup will be Wednesday November 27 at The Wedge At Foundation in The Cloud Room 5 Foundy St Suite 10 in Asheville from 3:00 pm until 6 pm. There will be late registration there also. Keep in mind shirts aren’t guaranteed during late registration. Please enter through the double doors by the picnic tables. Race day packet pick up and day of registration will be at Pack Square Park from 7am until 8:30am. The race starts on Woodfin St in front of the Downtown YMCA and finishes at Pack Square Park. Please note, due to restrictions NO DOGS/ PETS are allowed. Please don’t bring them. The course is not completely closed so this is for safety purposes. Race timing will be provided by Right on Time Productions.

Turkey Trot 5k starts at 9:15am. Walkers are welcome. Strollers are allowed at the back of the pack. Streets will be reopened at 10:30 and course can be finished safely by using sidewalks. Gobble Wobble 1 Mile Fun Run start at 8:30am. We will be having a Costume Contest so get creative! Awards will be in Pack Square Park around 10:30am. Online registration only (before Packet Pickup and Race Day).

All race related info on www.ashevilleturkeytrot.com

Sunday, February 2, 2025
Stars Servin’ Up Love
Feb 2 @ 10:00 am
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Stars Servin’ Up Love will welcome Andre AgassiAndy RoddickJessica PegulaEmma NavarroMichael KostaPete WentzJeff Probst, Esai Morales, and others to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville, N.C. for its celebrity tennis Hurricane Helene benefit for Western North Carolina on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025. 100% of net proceeds from the charity event (including direct donations from the event’s online auction and other opportunities) will be donated to local nonprofits including Always Asheville Fund, Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, and Asheville Tennis Association. Featured sponsors include Ingles Markets, Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos, and Ticketmaster. Presales through the United States Tennis Association and participating outlets begin on Monday, December 16 at 10:00 am ET, and public on-sale begins on Thursday, December 19 at 10:00 am ET. Tickets can be purchased at StarsServinUpLove.com.

Sunday, February 16, 2025
Frostbite 5k, 10k, and 1 Mile Fun Run
Feb 16 @ 1:45 pm – 4:00 pm
Lelia Patterson Center

For over 32 years, the Frostbite Races have motivated runners and walkers to stay active throughout the colder winter months. Participants brave the chilly temperatures to compete in a series of races, including a challenging 10K, a scenic 5K, or 1-mile fun run. Flurry the Penguin is always encouraging runners and walkers with high fives. The Family Fun Day and Wellness Expo add to the excitement with local vendors, wellness services, live music, and kid’s activities. The Frostbite Races have become a beloved tradition in Fletcher, NC, bringing the community together for a day of fitness and fun.

Tuesday, February 18, 2025
Propel Avl Connect
Feb 18 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Crave Dessert Bar
 
Join us for an evening of connection and drinks at CRAVE Dessert Bar!

EAT THE RICH. We believe life’s best moments are often centered around the best food and drink experiences. Whether you briefly pop in for a farm -to-go- cocktail & decadent dessert, prefer to linger over a shareable savory plate & hookah, we invite you to get lost in the conversation and enjoy the moment.

Sunday, February 23, 2025
Southern Rodeo Association
Feb 23 all-day
NC Agriculture Center

The 50th Southern Finals Rodeo will be held February 21-23, 2025 (3 performances) in Asheville NC (Fletcher) at the WNC Agricultural Center.

Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Alton Brown Live: The Last Bite
Feb 26 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Center

Saturday, March 1, 2025
2025 McDowell County Republican Convention
Mar 1 @ 8:00 am
Marion Train Depot

The 2025 McDowell County Republican Convention will take place on Saturday, March 1,
2025, at the historic Marion Train Depot (45 Depot Street, Marion, NC).
This event is your chance to actively engage in the political process here at home, across the
state, and even nationally. Gather with like-minded conservatives and join the movement to
make a tangible impact on elections. Mark your calendar and join us!