TRAVEL PLANNER BY ASHEVILLE BED & BREAKFAST ASSOCIATION

The Asheville Bed & Breakfast Association (which we are proud members), maintains an update to date events calendar which is important for planning your post-Helene travel to Asheville. Click here to view the Travel Planner which includes month by month events list, arts, shopping, dining and things to do.

EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AROUND WEAVERVILLE, MARS HILL, BARNARDSVILLE, ETC.

May Events 2025

  • Biltmore Blooms
    • Date: Thursday, May 01, 2025 , 9:00am-5:00pm
      • Additional Dates
        • Tuesday, April 08, 2025, 9:00am-5:00pm
        • Wednesday, April 09, 2025, 9:00am-5:00pm
        • Thursday, April 10, 2025, 9:00am-5:00pm
    • Location: Biltmore Estate -1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC
      • Price: $67.00 to $420.00
    • Description: Step into a world of vibrant blooms that bring the gardens, grounds, and grand rooms of Biltmore House to life. Journey through the captivating story of King Tut’s tomb and its legendary treasures. Stroll through the charming shops, savor delicious dining, and enjoy award-winning wines at Antler Hill Village. All of this and more awaits you—only at Biltmore.
    • Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/biltmore-blooms/15201711/2025-05-01T09
  • Appalachian Heritage Weekend
    • Date: Friday, May 2, 2025
      • Additional Dates
        • Saturday, May 3, 2025 
    • Location: Downtown Waynesville – 9 S. Main Street , Waynesville, NC
    • Description: Celebrate the rich traditions of Appalachia with a lively weekend of culture, crafts, and music as Main Street transforms into a vibrant festival space. Enjoy an award-winning Appalachian music concert on Friday night, followed by hands-on craft demonstrations like basketry, spinning, quilt block painting, and blacksmithing throughout the weekend. Explore art vendors, live music, and a fascinating True Crime Trail that uncovers stories from local history. Visitors can also tour the historic Shelton House, featuring unique exhibits and live demonstrations, or hop on the Quilt Trails Bus Tour for a scenic journey through local quilt blocks, regional history, and a relaxing glass of wine.
    • Link: https://haywoodarts.org/ath-festival/
  • PATIO: Riyen Roots & Kenny Dore
    • Date: Friday, May 02, 2025 , 4:30pm
    • Location: The Grey Eagle – 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC
      • Price: $6.00
    • Description: ALL AGES – LIMITED PATIO SEATING (First Come, First Serve)

Riyen Roots & Kenny Dore bring their soulful blend of acoustic blues, roots, and soul straight from the mountains of Asheville. With powerful originals and classic covers, this dynamic duo has toured Europe, played New Orleans JazzFest, and shared the stage with blues legends. Don’t miss this unforgettable live show!

  • How Do We See Ourselves in Each Other?
    • Date: Friday, May 02, 2025 , 5:30pm-8:30pm 
    • Location: Asheville Art Museum – 2 S. Pack Square , Asheville, NC
    • Description: Explore how migration is reshaping North Carolina—and how we see ourselves—through art and conversation. Join us for a talk with artist Pedro Lasch, a panel of thought leaders, and a post-event reception with drinks, bites, and entertainment.
    • Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/how-do-we-see-ourselves-in-each-other-tickets-1253888737969
  • 25th Anniversary Season Finale 
    • Date: Friday, May 02, 2025 , 7:00pm
      • Additional Dates
        • Sunday, May 04, 2025, 3:00pm
    • Location: Unca: Lipinski Auditorium
      • Lipnsky Hall, 300 Library Ln, Asheville, NC 28804
    • Description: Celebrate our 25th Anniversary Season Finale with a dynamic blend of jazz and classical as part of the Asheville Symphony’s “Art of Storytelling” festival. Enjoy works by Bernstein, a lyrical piece by local composer Richard Shulman, and Beethoven’s radiant Symphony No. 6. Sponsored by Ingles.
    • Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/25th-anniversary-season-finale/15469278/2025-05-02T19
  • ACMS Present the Isidore String Quartet
  • Gaspard&Dancers
    • Date: Friday, May 02, 2025 , 8:00pm-9:30pm
      • Additional Dates
        • Saturday, May 03, 2025, 8:00pm-9:30pm
    • Location: Wortham Center for the Performing Arts – 18 Biltmore Ave. Asheville, NC
      • Price: $22.00 to $65.00—$65; Child (15 yrs. old and under) $22 
    • Description: How far can imagination go? Experience the powerful, magical work of Gaspard Louis and his acclaimed company in an evening of bold, emotional dance. Join us for pre-show talks and a dance master class to connect deeper with the art and artists.
    • Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/gaspard-dancers/15196255/2025-05-02T20 
  • Spring Flora ID
    • Date: Saturday, May 03, 2025 , 1:00pm – 4:00pm 
    • Location: The North Carolina Arboretum – 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way , Asheville, NC
    • Description: Join botanist Alexandra Holland for a guided hike through the Arboretum, focusing on spring wildflowers, trees, and the unique plant communities of the Blue Ridge. Learn about local flora, habitats, and natural history. Recommended field guides: Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide and Swanson’s Field Guide to Trees and Shrubs of the Southern Appalachians. 
    • Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/spring-flora-id-may-3-/15375172/2025-05-03T13
  • Masterworks 7: Tall Tales
    • Date: Saturday, May 03, 2025 , 2:00pm
    • Location: First Baptist Church – 5 Oak St , Asheville, NC
    • Description: Music tells powerful stories without words—of enchanted forests, fairy tale villages, and epic battles. Journey through German legends, then explore Contact, a jazzy, bluegrass-tinged concerto inspired by interstellar communication and created with Time For Three.
    • Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/masterworks-7-tall-tales/14359179/2025-05-03T14
  • Asheville Symphony Amadeus Festival – Pintxo Party With Katie Button
  • Comedy at Catawba: Gabbie Watts
    • Date: Sunday, May 04, 2025 , 6:30pm
      • Doors at 6pm, show at 6:30pm
      • Age 18+
    • Location: Catawba Brewing – 32 Banks Avenue , Asheville, NC
      • Price: $15.00 to $18.00—$15 advance, $18 day of
    • Description: Every Sunday, Modelface Comedy features top comedians from across the country. This weekend: Gabbie Watts from NYC!

Known for her dry wit and slapstick humor, Gabbie tackles today’s hot topics with jokes about Doritos, gay penguins, and Ratatouille. She’s performed at major festivals like Flyover and Limestone and clubs like Dead Crow and Comedy Fort. Winner of the 2023 “Queer of the Year” at P3 Comedy Fest, Gabbie also hosts the American Filth podcast and streams her debut half-hour special, BOING, on SiriusXM.

  • Walking the Great Lakes of WNC
    • Date: Monday, May 05, 2025 , 10:00am-12:00pm
    • Location: Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center – 121 Shiloh Rd , Asheville, NC
      • Price: Free
    • Description: Lace up your walking shoes and invite your friends for a scenic tour of the lakes in western North Carolina. This program is perfect for anyone seeking a great workout while taking in beautiful views.

Pre-registration is required. Transportation is available, but spots are limited.

  • Asheville Improv Festival
    • Date: Thursday, May 08, 2025, 5:30pm-11:00pm
      • Additional Dates
        • Friday, May 09, 2025 , 5:30pm-11:00pm
        • Saturday, May 10, 2025, 5:00pm-11:00pm 
    • Location: Various locations – Asheville, NC
      • Price: $20.00 to $32.00
    • Description: We’re thrilled to announce that The Asheville Improv Festival is rescheduled for May 7-10, 2025! After the devastating flooding in Western North Carolina last fall, the region has made a remarkable recovery. While some areas are still impacted, we’re excited to welcome everyone back to our beloved Appalachian mountains.

      Get ready for the same amazing event:
      4 NIGHTS, 4 VENUES, 11 SHOWS, 6 HEADLINERS, 11
      WORKSHOPS, 40+ IMPROV TEAMS FROM ACROSS THE USA!
  • Guided Blue Ghost Firefly Night Tour: Escape the Crowds!
    • Date: Thursday, May 08, 2025, 8:00pm-11:00pm
      • Additional Dates
        • Friday, May 09, 2025 , 8:00pm-11:00pm
        • Saturday, May 10, 2025, 8:00pm-11:00pm
        • Thursday, May 15, 2025, 8:00pm-11:00pm
        • Friday, May 16, 2025, 8:00pm-11:00pm
        • Saturday, May 17, 2025, 8:00pm-11:00pm
    • Location: Private Forest – TBA! Asheville, NC
      • Price: 
    • Description: Experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains at twilight with a guided hike to see the rare Blue Ghost fireflies. As the sun sets, you’ll explore a private forest while practicing mindfulness and connecting with nature.

This special event is offered on just six evenings each year, with limited group sizes for a more intimate experience.

2025 Dates: May 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17

Join us in Mills River, just 45 minutes from Asheville, and help protect this beautiful, conserved woodland. Location details are shared with registered guests only.

  • Asheville Movies in the Park
    • Date: Friday, May 09, 2025 , 8:00pm-11:00pm
    • Location: Pack Square Park – 80 Court Plaza, Asheville, NC
      • Price: Free
    • Description: Join us for free family movies under the stars at Pack Square Park on the second Friday of the month! Bring blankets and lawn chairs for this fun summer tradition hosted by Asheville Parks & Recreation.

The Rec n Roll Play Zone opens an hour before the movie with games, music, and activities for kids and teens, plus themed giveaways while supplies last.

  • ANNIE The Musical
    • Date: Saturday, May 9, 2025 , 7:00pm
      • Additional Dates
        • Saturday, May 10, 2025 , 7:00pm
        • Sunday, May 11, 2025, 2:00pm
    • Location: Diana Wortham Theatre – 18 Biltmore Ave. Asheville, NC
      • Price: $33.50 – $43.50
    • Description: Based on Harold Gray’s comic strip, Annie is a global phenomenon and winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. With a book and score by Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse, and Martin Charnin, it features iconic songs like “Tomorrow.”

Set in 1930s New York, Annie, a determined orphan, escapes her cruel caretaker, Miss Hannigan, and embarks on thrilling adventures. Along the way, she befriends President Roosevelt and finds a new family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his secretary Grace Farrell, and a lovable dog named Sandy.

  • The Slice of Life Comedy Asheville Spring Standup Contest Series: ROUND 2
    • Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 , 7:00pm
    • Location: The Orange Peel – 101 Biltmore Ave , Asheville, NC
    • Description: These shows sell out fast!

Hosted by Hilliary Begley from Netflix & Amazon Prime!

Enjoy cocktails while laughing the night away with some of the best local stand-up comics in a fun, adult atmosphere!

Free snacks while supplies last. Feel free to bring your own food (no drinks, please)!

  • The Asheville Ballet presents: Carmen, the Ballet
    • Date: May 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m.
    • Location: Diana Wortham Theatre -18 Biltmore Ave. Asheville, NC 28801
      • Price: $15 – $40
    • Description: Carmen, the Ballet is a stunning professional production by Western North Carolina’s own Asheville Ballet, directed by Ann Dunn. Featuring both classical and contemporary choreography by resident artists Ann Dunn and Marcelo Martinez, this performance brings bold artistry to the stage.
    • Link: https://www.worthamarts.org/events/carmen-the-ballet/ 
  • Jason Moss and the Hosses
    • Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025 , 8:00pm
    • Location: Eda’s Hide-a-Way – 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville, NC
      • Price: $10.00
    • Description: Show starts at 8PM | $10 at the door | 21+

Jason Moss & the Hosses bring vintage honky tonk, rockabilly, and country from Charlotte, NC. With raw, hilarious storytelling and a killer 5-piece band, this is one unforgettable night of music you don’t want to miss!

  • Comedy at Catawba: Joe Pettis
    • Date: Sunday, May 18, 2025 , 6:30pm-8:00pm
      • ages 18+ Doors at 6pm, show at 6:30pm
    • Location: Catawba Brewing Company South Slope Asheville – 32 Banks Avenue, Asheville, NC
      • Price: $15.00 to $18.00—$15 advance, $18 day of
    • Description: Joe Pettis, a stand-up comic and founder of 1UP Comedy, has toured North America for 15+ years and recorded his first album in 2023. He’s appeared on Adult Swim, Discovery, and Doug Loves Movies, and performs at major festivals. Based in Georgia, he produces 100+ shows a year—including the longest-running brewery comedy show at SweetWater Brewing Co.
    • Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/comedy-at-catawba-joe-pettis/15315908/2025-05-18T18
  • Comedy at Catawba: Kate Willett
    • Date: Friday, May 23, 2025 , 7:00pm-9:00pm
      • ages 18+ Doors at 6:30pm, show at 7pm
    • Location: Catawba Brewing Company South Slope Asheville – 32 Banks Avenue, Asheville, NC
      • Price: $18.00 to $23.00—$18 ga, $23 premium seating
    • Description: Kate Willett is a comedian, writer, and actress seen on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and Netflix’s Comedy Lineup. She’s the author of Dirtbag Anthropology, cohost of the Reply Guys podcast, and has written for Beavis and Butthead. Kate has toured globally and performed at top festivals like Just for Laughs and SF Sketchfest.
    • Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/comedy-at-catawba-kate-willett/15316425/2025-05-23T19
  • Alma Russ
    • Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025 , 8:00pm
      • The show starts at 8pm. $10 cover at door. 21+
    • Location: Eda’s Hide-a-Way – 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville, NC
      • Price: $10.00
    • Description: Alma Russ (pronounced like “Alamo”) blends country, folk, and Appalachian roots into a sound all her own. Based in Mill Spring, NC, she’s been writing songs and traveling the country since she was 19—playing everything from hometown bars to American Idol Season 1, where she earned 3 yeses. A multi-instrumentalist and storyteller, Alma recently recorded a critically acclaimed album in an abandoned West Texas church.
    • Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/alma-russ/15315604/2025-05-24T20
  • Comedy at Catawba: Chris Martin
    • Date: Sunday, May 25, 2025 , 6:30pm
    • Location: Catawba Brewing – 32 Banks Avenue, Asheville, NC
      • Price: $18.00 to $23.00—$18 ga, $23 premium seating
      • ages 18+
    • Description: Chris Martin is a British stand-up, actor, and writer who’s toured the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. He’s appeared on The Late Late Show, I Think You Should Leave, and Live at the Comedy Store, and written for shows like XO, Kitty and The Late Late Show. His podcasts have been named among the UK’s best, with Babysitting Trevor earning a British Podcast Award.
    • Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/comedy-at-catawba-chris-martin/15105921/2025-05-25T18
  • Comedy at Catawba:  Jason Salmon
    • Date: Friday, May 30, 2025 , 7:00pm
    • Location: Catawba Brewing – 32 Banks Avenue, Asheville, NC
      • Price: $18.00 to $23.00—$18 ga, $23 premium seating
      • ages 16+
    • Description: Jason Salmon is a Texas-born, NYC-based comic known for mixing wisdom with hilarious charm. He’s toured the world, performed for troops overseas, and racked up millions of views with his stand-up specials—including one of Dry Bar’s top 10 in 2022. Catch his latest, Biscuits and Gravity, on YouTube. You’ve also seen him in Red Dead Redemption 2, Orange is the New Black, 30 Rock, and Comedy Central’s Cowboy Explains series.

Link: https://avltoday.6amcity.com/events#/details/comedy-at-catawba-jason-salmon/15018708/2025-05-30T19