August Upcoming Events in Asheville, North Carolina

Swannanoa Gathering – August 1st & 2nd

The Swannanoa Gathering is an educational program of summer folk arts workshops founded in 1991 and hosted annually at Warren Wilson College in North Carolina’s scenic Blue Ridge Mountains.

Held on the college’s campus in the Swannanoa Valley near Asheville, the Gathering offers five weeks of immersive, week-long workshops in folk music and dance throughout July and August. These programs are led by some of the world’s most respected folk artists and instructors.

We’re especially excited to support the upcoming sessions taking place July 27–August 2: Contemporary Folk Week and Guitar Week—a celebration of musical creativity and craftsmanship in a setting that inspires learning, connection, and community.

Into the Wild: Tina Curry Solo Exhibition – August 1st – 10th

“Into the Wild” at Grovewood Gallery offers a captivating journey through the animal kingdom with a stunning collection of sculptures by Tina Curry, a renowned ceramic and bronze artist based in Knoxville, Tennessee. The event will take place 10-5pm.

This exhibition invites viewers to experience the beauty and spirit of wildlife through Curry’s masterfully crafted pieces—each one a tribute to the natural world and her artistic vision.

Enchanted Garden Art Show – June 14 – September 21

Discover the magic where art meets nature at the Enchanted Garden Art Show, opening Saturday, June 14 at Grovewood Gallery, with a special reception from 2–5 p.m.

This outdoor sculpture invitational features the work of eight talented artists from North Carolina and beyond, set amidst the scenic beauty of Grovewood Village. Visitors can explore an inspired collection of artworks that blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape, creating a truly immersive experience.

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the Enchanted Garden Art Show is a must-see for anyone who appreciates creativity, craftsmanship, and the natural world.

Downtown Asheville Gallery Walk – August 1st – October 3rd

Experience an evening of art, culture, and connection with the Downtown Asheville Gallery Walk, taking place the first Friday of each month from August 1 through October.

Over 15 galleries throughout downtown Asheville will open their doors from 5–8 PM, offering a chance to explore new exhibitions, meet local artists, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s vibrant creative community. Stroll at your own pace, soak in the art, and make a night of it with dinner or drinks downtown.

It’s a relaxed, inspiring way to experience Asheville—one gallery at a time.

Asheville Ultimate HoDown Throwdown 2025 – August 2nd

This year’s event may look a little different, but the heart of HoDown remains the same: full-on fun, community spirit, and a whole lot of Appalachian hospitality.

At its core, HoDown is all about showing up with heart, humor, and a little something to share. Teams are invited to bring their own flavor to the tournament—whether it’s a sideline spirit game, a pop-up beer tent takeover, themed shenanigans, or homemade treats for Saturday’s communal meal. Want to host a silent disco or field-side surprise? Go for it! It’s your chance to contribute to the quirky, joyful energy that defines HoDown.

Twilight in the Treetops Summer Night Climbs – June 7th – August 30th, 7:45 – 9:45pm

Celebrate the Summer with family and friends. Imagine climbing 40 feet in the air and zipping along a hang glider or a sky kayak in the largest adventure park in Western North Carolina. Then, as the sun starts to set, the challenges become illuminated with over 15,000 colored twinkle and laser lights. Five of the Adventure Park’s aerial trails become illuminated with all their leaves, cables, ropes and platforms.

This mystical climbing experience is offered Saturday Nights from June 7- August 30 and Thursday Nights from June 19-August 7 at 7:45 pm. The Twilight Climb is a great way to celebrate with friends and family. It can also be a fun way to have a date! 

Ages for this event are 4+. For more information, visit their website.

North Asheville Tailgate Market – Saturdays 8am -12pm

This wonderful market takes place on Saturdays at the UNC’s Asheville Campus. With all types of vendors, it’s a wonderful way to start your weekend.  Shop from a full range of local, sustainably produced produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, breads, honey, plants, prepared foods, crafts and more. With a roster of over 120 vendors, shop from 70+ vendors weekly. Voted #1 Farmers Market in WNC for 14 years running! Accepting SNAP/EBT, Produce Prescriptions, cash, credit, and debit. Sign up for the newsletter on their website or check their Instagram for market happenings and updates.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre – August 1st and 2nd

Shakespeare comes alive under the stars this summer with A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Glenna Grant and running July 4 – August 2, 2025.

Set in an enchanted forest filled with fairies, lovers, and mischievous mayhem, this timeless comedy invites audiences into a world where magic and mistaken identities collide. It’s a delightful mix of romance and chaos that continues to charm audiences of all ages.

Performances are free and open to the public—no reservations needed. Bring a blanket, your favorite picnic, and a beverage of choice. Lawn chairs are also welcome, or you can reserve one in advance [insert link if needed].

Showtimes: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 7:30 PM
Gates open at 6:15 PM for seating.

It’s the perfect way to spend a summer evening—surrounded by nature, laughter, and a bit of theatrical magic.

Tuesday Trivia Nights – Unleash your Dog & Brain Power – June – November, 6-8pm

Join us every Tuesday night at Wagbar for a howling good time with our Weekly Trivia Night – the ultimate test of your knowledge and wit! Whether you’re a trivia novice or a quiz master, gather your friends, form a team, and get ready for an evening filled with challenging questions, laughter, and the chance to win some amazing prizes.

Event Highlights: Entry is FREE for Humans and Dogs After 5 PM: That’s right, humans enter for free, and dogs can join the fun without a day pass or membership after 5 PM! All dogs must have proof of vaccinations and be spayed/neutered to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.

• 1st Place: A $50 Wagbar Gift Card

• 2nd Place: A $15 Wagbar Gift Card

• How to Participate: Teams of 3-6 people are encouraged. Rally your friends, family, or fellow dog enthusiasts to form your ultimate trivia squad.

Asheville Tourists Baseball – Through August 26th, 6:35-10pm

Enjoy a local baseball game right in Asheville during these warmer months. This is a family friendly event or a great date night opportunity. The stadium offers food and drink, as well as merchandise. The doors open at 5:30pm and the first pitch is at 6:35pm.

Summer 1- on- 1 Pottery Lessons – July through September 21st

Looking for a creative weekend activity this summer? Check out the 1-on-1 Pottery Lessons happening every Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM!

This hands-on experience offers private 30-minute sessions where you can make your own pottery piece with guidance from an instructor. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows. After your session, the studio team will handle the firing process and notify you when your creation is ready for pickup or shipping (typically a few weeks later).

Lessons are $75 per person per 30-minute session, with discounts for extended time or multiple participants. Whether you’re going solo or with friends and family, it’s a fun and relaxing way to try something new this summer!

Bachata Dance Lesson and Social! Every Thursday w/ Bachata AVL – Through November 20th

Want to learn Bachata? Join Urban Orchard Cider Company every thursday. Dance lesson start at 8:30pm, followed by social time at 9:15pm. Live DJ Bachata nights, combined with some Cha Cha, Cumbia, Merengue and Salsa with Bachata. The $10 entry includes the class and there are cocktails, cider, wine, local beer on draft, domestics in can, and N/A beverages.