Available Monday through Friday, 8:00am-12:00pm
Some classes currently have a waitlist; register now and you will receive an update email regarding the enrollment status.
Nov
21
Thu
Nov 21 all-day
In addition to story times for the little ones (see our calendar for those), our local libraries have several clubs, classes, and other fun programs on their calendars for families with kids of all ages. And, unless they specify that you must register in advance for an event, you won’t likely need a library account with that county to attend them! Visit the events calendars for the numerous library systems we have in our area, below …
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BUNCOMBE COUNTY LIBRARIES … EVENT CALENDAR HERE
- Black Mountain Library @ 105 N. Dougherty St., Black Mountain, NC 28711 | (828) 250-4756
- East Asheville Library @ 3 Avon Rd., Asheville | (828) 250-4738
- Enka-Candler Library @ 1404 Sand Hill Road, Candler, NC 28715 | (828) 250-4758
- Fairview Library @ 1 Taylor Road, Fairview, NC 28730 | (828) 250-6484
- Leicester Library @ 1561 Alexander Road, Leicester, NC 28748 | (828) 250-6480
- North Asheville Library @ 1030 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 | (828) 250-4752
- Oakley/South Asheville Library @ 749 Fairview Road, Asheville, NC 28803 | (828) 250-4754
- Pack Memorial Library @ 67 Haywood Street, Asheville, NC 28801 | (828) 250-4700
- Skyland/South Buncombe Library @ 260 Overlook Road, Asheville, NC 28803 | (828) 250-6488
- Swannanoa Library @ 101 W. Charleston Ave. Swannanoa, NC 28778 | (828) 250-6486
- Weaverville Library @ 41 N. Main Street, Weaverville, NC 28787 | (828) 250-6482
- West Asheville Library @ 942 Haywood Road, Asheville, NC 28806 | (828) 250-4750
HENDERSON COUNTY LIBRARIES … EVENT CALENDAR HERE
- Main Library @ 301 N Washington St., Hendersonville, NC 28739 | (828) 697-4725
- Fletcher Library @ 120 Library Road, Fletcher, NC 28732 | (828) 687-1218
- Edneyville Library @ 2 Firehouse Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 | (828) 685-0110
- Etowah Library @ 101 Brickyard Rd, Etowah, NC 28729 | (828) 891-6577
- Green River Library @ 50 Green River Rd, Zirconia, NC 28790 | (828) 697-4969
- Mills River Library @ 124 Town Center Dr., Suite 1, Mills River, NC 28759 | (828) 890-1850
HAYWOOD COUNTY LIBRARIES … EVENT CALENDAR HERE
- Canton Branch @ 11 Pennsylvania Avenue Canton, NC 28716 | (828) 648-2924
- Fines Creek Branch @ 190 Fines Creek Road Clyde, NC 28721 | (828) 356-2551
- Maggie Valley Branch @ 3987 Soco Road Town Hall Maggie Valley, NC 28751 | (828) 356-2541
- Waynesville Branch @ 678 S Haywood Street Waynesville, NC 28786 | (828) 452-5169
MCDOWELL COUNTY LIBRARIES … EVENT CALENDAR HERE
- Marion Library @ 90 W Court St, Marion, NC 28752 | (828) 652-3858
- Old Fort Library @ 65 E Mitchell St, Old Fort, NC 28762 | (828) 668-7111
Nov 21 @ 7:00 am – 11:00 pm
The City of Hendersonville’s Skate Park is located in Patton Park across from Patton Pool. The skate park is open to the public and is an unattended facility, the hours are 7am-11pm.
NO BIKES ALLOWED ON THE SKATE PARK
The Skate Park features include:
- Bowl – 8-ft deep with waterfall
- 4-ft ramp
- 4-ft quarter pipe with a 2-ft seat extention
- 8 sets of stairs with handrails
- Rainbow ledge – 4-ft wide x 20-ft long
- 3 – Flat ledges
- Grind rail
- 2 hubba ledges
- 5-ft quarter pipe
- Designed & constructed by GRINDLINE SKATEPARKS INC.
Nov 21 @ 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
If you haven’t heard of Kids in Parks or TRACK Trails yet, you’ve been missing out! TRACK Trails is a trail program that was started here in Asheville (but has since spread across the country!) by Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, a network of local Pediatricians, and the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, to “promote children’s health and the health of our parks”, and we have several in our area. Kids in Parks is an ever expanding network of family-friendly, self-guided outdoor adventures, and “include hiking trails, biking trails, geocaching trails, paddling trails, nature trail disc golf courses, and even adventures you can do in your own back yard”. Register your child online, and as they complete the trail, they earn prizes for tracking their adventures! Best of all, it’s all FREE!
Nov 21 @ 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Our comprehensive guide to Asheville Area Playgrounds is your ultimate resource for recreation in Asheville with kids! Indoor playgrounds, as well as outdoor playgrounds are included, with everything you need to know in advance to plan your family friendly outing in Asheville and the surrounding area!
This guide is a continuous work in progress, and we will keep adding to it, so keep checking back!
Nov 21 @ 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 8am-2pm.
The Curb Market has been a local Hendersonville tradition since 1924. What began as a group of farmers bringing their extra produce to town for the “city folk” has expanded over the years to include some of the freshest fruits & vegetables, plants & fresh cut flowers, homemade jams, jellies & baked goods and hand made mountain crafts.
A favorite of locals and visitors alike, the Curb Market always has something different. Each vendor brings his specialty items for a unique collection of offerings. Come visit and make new friends while enjoying some of the best that Henderson County has to offer.
Nov 21 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Spreadsheet of MANNA FoodBank – Public Food Pantries and Meal Sites Sorted by County, Zip Code, then Agency Name at the link listed.
Nov 21 @ 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Nov 21 @ 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Asheville is an amazing city with so much to see and do, and while we have some amazing group tour companies, sometimes we want to venture out on our own to learn about the culture and history of our area … with just our family, on our schedule and timetable, to explore our interests, on our own path. A great way to do that, and a great way to save some money (THESE ARE ALL FREE), is to take one of the many self-guided tours that have been created by our local experts at our tourism centers, and historic sites. We’ve compiled the list attached of some of our favorites for you, with links to them all, that we hope you will enjoy and learn as much from as we did and still do. If we’re missing any of your favorites, let us know, so that we can share them, too!
Check them all out at the link above
Nov 21 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
FREE ADMISSION TO LOCAL ATTRACTIONS! Buncombe County Public Libraries have teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders through their ZOOM pass program! All you’ll need is a Buncombe County library card in good standing to reserve one. You can make 1 reservation at a time per library card, up to 30 days in advance, and you may visit each attraction once every 30 days. The process is simple! Reserve your pass on the Buncombe County Libraries website, pick up the pass at the library of your choosing, and go have fun! They’ll even send you an email confirmation of your reservation and a reminder email the day before your visit, so you don’t forget!
All reservations are made online, so you won’t be able to call or email to make a reservation.
WHAT’S CURRENTLY BEING OFFERED:
ASHEVILLE ART MUSEUM … Pass admits 2 adults and 4 children under age 18. For general admission only and doesn’t include special exhibits or events that have an additional charge.
ASHEVILLE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE … Pass admits four people (Children under 2 are admitted free and don’t need a pass). For admission only and doesn’t include additional programming fees.
HANDS ON! CHILDREN’S MUSEUM … Family Pass admits 4 people. You can get $10 off a membership to Hands On! on the day of your ZOOM pass visit.
NORTH CAROLINA ARBORETUM … One pass per car for personal vehicles. Doesn’t include special exhibits or events that have an additional charge (like Winter Lights).
PADDLEBOATS AT LAKE JULIAN … One ZOOM pass = one 30 minute Paddleboat ride. Minimum passenger age is 2 years old. Minimum age to rent a paddleboat is 16 years old and the paddleboat must have at least one person 16 years of age or older on board.
TEAM ECCO AQUARIUM AND SHARK LAB … The ZOOM Family Pass for the Team Ecco Aquarium and Shark Lab admits 4 people. This pass is available Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
WATERCRAFT LAUNCH PASS AT LAKE JULIAN … One ZOOM Pass = one personal watercraft daily launch pass (no gas powered engines on the lake).
WNC NATURE CENTER … Family Pass admits 2 adults and 4 children under age 18 (Children under 2 are admitted free and don’t need a pass).
WELL PLAYES BOARD GAME CAFE … There are two passes available Monday through Thursday starting July 1st. Each pass admits two adults and four kids.
BUNCOMBE COUNTY OUTDOOR POOLS … Seasonally, Beginning May 27th in 2023! Family Pass admits 4 people, and can be used at Cane Creek Pool, Erwin Pool, Hominy Valley Pool, North Buncombe Pool, Owen Pool.
Buncombe County Libraries also partners often with Asheville Community Theatre and NC Stage Company for passes to performances
Seasonally, you may even see passes to Buncombe County pools in the summer, and passes to Winter Lights at Lake Julian in the Winter!
Live in neighboring counties? Several other counties have their own version of ZOOM! We know Henderson County, Transylvania County, Madison County, and Polk County all do! You can also apply for an out of county library card with Buncombe County for a small $20 yearly fee, in which case you’ll qualify to participate in their ZOOM Pass program! Apply in person at any Buncombe County Library branch to become an out of county cardholder. Our guide to Buncombe County Library branches HERE
GET YOUR PIN NUMBER READY AND RESERVE YOUR ZOOM PASS HERE
Nov 21 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
The Henderson County Public Library has teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders with a ZOOM pass! Reservations can be made between 5 and 30 days in advance. Your household may visit one attraction every 30 days. Check the pass details to see how many adults and children gain entry with each pass.
👉 Have your library card ready and book yours at the link above
Nov 21 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Transylvania County Public Library has teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders with a ZOOM pass! Reservations can be made between 5 and 30 days in advance. Your household may visit one attraction every 30 days. Check the pass details to see how many adults and children gain entry with each pass.
👉 Have your library card ready and book yours at the link above
Nov 21 @ 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
Story Times for Kids at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. Story times are subject to cancellation or rearrangement on the schedule without notice. Please check to be sure that the story time is still scheduled to occur, at the link we’ve provided.
DESCRIPTIONS:
Preschool Story Time is for children ages 3 to 5 years. Activities include stories, songs, flannel board stories, action rhymes, and more. Each program concludes with a special craft kit.
Family Story Time is designed for children and their families. Activities include stories, songs, flannel board stories, action rhymes, and more. Each program concludes with a special craft kit.
Music & Movement is an interactive program designed for children and their families. Activities include music, movement, flannel board stories, action rhymes, and more.
Bouncing Babies is a special program for babies ages 0 to 18 months and their caregiver. Activities include lap rhymes, songs, stories, and more. Each program concludes with playtime and exploration.
MONDAYS:
- 10:00am – Family Story Time @ Edneyville Library (2 Firehouse Rd, Hendersonville)
- 10:00am – Family Story Time @ Mills River Library (124 Town Center Dr, Mills River)
TUESDAYS:
- 10:00am – Family Story Time @ Etowah Library (101 Brickyard Rd, Etowah)
- 10:30am – Preschool Story Time @ Henderson County Main Library (301 N Washington St, HVL)
WEDNESDAYS:
- 10:30am – Toddler Story Time @ Henderson County Main Library (301 N Washington St, HVL)
- 10:30am – Family Story Time @ Fletcher Library (120 Library Rd, Fletcher)
THURSDAYS:
- 10:00am – Family Story Time @ Green River Library (50 Green River Rd, Zirconia)
- 10:30am – Music & Movement @ Henderson County Main Library (301 N Washington St, HVL)
- 11:15am – Bouncing Babies @ Henderson County Main Library (301 N Washington St, HVL)
Nov 21 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Mobile Food Markets visit dozens of locations each month, pairing free healthy food with tasty recipes, practical cooking demonstrations, and valuable nutrition information that’s easy to understand. Spanish-speaking community staff are also on hand to connect attendees with local resources. Distributions are FREE and open to the public, no questions asked.
FIND THE SCHEDULE AT THE LINK HERE
Nov 21 @ 10:30 am – 4:15 pm
Story Times for Kids at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. Story times are subject to cancellation or rearrangement on the schedule without notice. Please check to be sure that the story time is still scheduled to occur, at the link we’ve provided.
DESCRIPTIONS:
Baby Story Time is a lively language enrichment story time serving our youngest folks—the 4 month-old to 18 month-old set.
Toddler Times are interactive story times for children ages 18 months to 3 years.
Preschool story times are geared towards 3-5 year-olds and include singing, stretchers, and creative activities.
Hora Del Cuento is a bilingual story time for all ages, where you’ll share books, rhymes, and songs in Spanish and in English
TUESDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ Fairview Library (1 Taylor Rd., Fairview)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Hora Del Cuento @ Oakley/South Asheville Library (749 Fairview Rd., Asheville)
- 3:30pm-4:15pm – Baby Story Time @ Weaverville Library (41 N. Main St., Weaverville)
WEDNESDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ Black Mountain Library (105 N. Dougherty St., Black Mountain)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Toddler Story Time @ Enka-Candler Library (1404 Sandhill Rd., Candler)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ Weaverville Library (41 N. Main St., Weaverville)
- 3:30pm-4:15pm – Preschool Story Time @ Pack Memorial Library (67 Haywood St., Asheville)
THURSDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ Swannanoa Library (101 W. Charleston Ave., Swannanoa)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Toddler Story Time @ Fairview Library (1 Taylor Rd., Fairview)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Toddler Story Time @ Leicester Library (1561 Alexander Rd., Leicester)
FRIDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Toddler Story Time @ North Asheville Library (1030 Merrimon Ave., Asheville)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Baby Story Time @ Oakley/South Asheville Library (749 Fairview Rd., Asheville)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Hora Del Cuento @ Skyland/South Buncombe Library (260 Overlook Rd., Asheville)
SATURDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ East Asheville Library (3 Avon Rd., Asheville)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ West Asheville Library (942 Haywood Rd., Asheville)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Baby Story Time @ Leicester Library (1561 Alexander Rd., Leicester)
Nov 21 @ 10:30 am – 11:00 am
Story Times for Kids at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. Story times are subject to cancellation or rearrangement on the schedule without notice. Please check to be sure that the story time is still scheduled to occur, at the link we’ve provided.
DESCRIPTIONS:
Wiggle Worms Storytime is an exciting, interactive music and movement storytime ideal for children 2 to 6 years
Mother Goose Storytime focuses on rhymes, songs, and simple stories to promote early literacy and is ideal for children 0 to 2 years.
Move & Groove Storytime is an exciting, interactive music and movement storytime ideal for children 2 to 6 years.
TUESDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:00am – Wiggle Worms Storytime @ Waynesville Branch (678 S Haywood St, Waynesville)
WEDNESDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:00am – Mother Goose Storytime @ Waynesville Branch (678 S Haywood St, Waynesville) … All storytimes will be held outside, weather permitting, so bring a blanket to sit on. They will move inside if the weather is poor.
THURSDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:00am – Move & Groove Storytime @ Canton Branch (11 Pennsylvania Avenue, Canton) … All storytimes will be held outside, weather permitting, so bring a blanket to sit on. They will move inside if the weather is poor.
Nov 21 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wed-Sat 11:00am, 1:00pm & 3:00pm
Mon & Tues 11:00am & 1:00pm
Dive into the magical world of bean-to-bar chocolate right here in Asheville by taking a Bean to Bar Chocolate Factory Tour with French Broad Chocolates. Their Bean to Bar Chocolate Factory Tour includes a classroom session about the history of French Broad Chocolate, an overview of cacao farming, a chocolate tasting experience, and a guided viewing of their chocolate factory where guests explore each step of their chocolate-making process, from the roasting of the cacao bean to their tempering of their chocolate bars. During the tour, guests will taste cacao in several forms – roasted bean, bar, and bonbon, and compare and contrast flavor notes in samples of three different chocolate bars.
Tours are approximately 45-55 minutes.
They ask that guests arrive 5-10 minutes before your tour start time to check in at the cafe counter.
Tours are NOT at French Broad Chocolate Lounge in Pack Square. All tours take place at French Broad Chocolate Factory & Cafe, 821 Riverside Drive, Asheville NC 28801.
Nov 21 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Weekly on Thursdays at 11am
Attention Weaverville, Woodfin, Mars Hill, Marshall, Asheville & Barnardsville parents! Announcing Blossoming Buds Stroller Club!
As the Mama of a 10 month old who recently moved to the area, I’m on a mission to build community and hope you’ll join us! A big thank you to other local stroller groups including Homegrown Families Stroller Revolution for empowering me to get this going on the north side.
Strollers or baby wearing encouraged & late arrivals are welcome (you can catch us on the 2nd lap). MEETING SPOT will be at the bathrooms by the playground. Weather cancelations will be posted the night before on my Instagram business page @naturebabieslactation
Nov 21 @ 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Explore our brewery nestled in the Appalachians.
When we brewed our first batch of beer in 1980 in Chico, California, the lush forests of North Carolina were far from our mind. Over the last four decades, our thirst to brew quality, flavorful beer led us across the country and around the globe. In 2012, we broke ground on our second production location in order to send the freshest beer possible to our friends and fans all over the world. Come visit our sprawling East Coast home in Mills River, North Carolina and see first-hand how determination and a pioneering spirit can lead to incredible adventures. Our tours fill up quickly. You must make reservations online for all tours except the Guided Tastings and the self-guided Visitor Corridor.
SUNDAY–THURSDAY
11:00am–9:00pm
FRIDAY–SATURDAY
11:00am–10:00pm
GUIDED:
- Brewery Tour – Mills River, NC … Duration: 45 minutes | Ages 12+ only | $9/Person | Reservation required
Whether you’re just getting into craft beer or we’re on your brewery bucket list, a Mills River tour is for you — so we recommend you reserve a spot! Our interactive tours offer everything from hop handling to nature hikes to — what you really came for — beer sampling.
- Beyond the Pale Tour – Mills River, NC … Duration: 90 minutes | Ages 12+ only | $25/Person | Reservation required
Join us for a taste of our iconic Sierra Nevada Pale Ale as we dive into our roots: from humble beginnings in Chico, California to our LEED Platinum certified facility in Mills River, North Carolina. We will walk through our production facility, exploring the brewing process and ingredients, and highlight how our sustainability commitment fits into it all. We will end with guided tasting of eight beers in our Grand Tasting Room and Bar. Wheelchair accessible. No one under 12 years old permitted.
- Trip in the Woods Hiking Tour … Duration: 2 to 2 1/2 hours | Ages 12+ only | $30/Person | Reservation required
Our Mills River brewery is nestled within over 200 acres of lush, forested land just waiting to be explored, so join us on a Trip in the Woods! On this 1.5-mile guided nature hike, you will explore our beautiful, forested property, visit our resident chickens, donkeys, and sheep who graze freely across nearly 4 acres of pasture, and wrap up with a sampling of a few of our award-winning brews in our Back Porch Beer Garden. Grab your hiking shoes and get ready for a beer adventure! *The loop trail features moderate elevation change. Those with allergies should note that the group will hike near our beehives.
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SELF GUIDED:
- Visitor Corridor … Duration: At your leisure | All ages | No reservation required | Sunday-Thursday: 11am-8pm, Friday-Saturday: 11am-9pm
Groups not your thing? We get it. For those who prefer to wander solo, our Brewery has been designed with guests in mind! Our upstairs Visitor Corridor includes a raised mezzanine for bird’s-eye views of our copper-clad brewhouse, a real-time look at fermenting beer and a visit to our warehouse and packaging hall. Self-guided tour areas do not require a reservation, and are open to the public during normal business hours.
Nov 21 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Every Thursday 11:00am-1:00pm
That’s right, board games will make your kids smarter! When you play board games, you stimulate the areas of the brain responsible for memory formation and complex thought function (which is true for adults, too.) Games help develop cognitive skills, including decision-making, problem-solving, and logical analysis.. And the benefits continue on throughout a person’s life. In older adults, playing games has been shown to lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Then why not join us for our Homeschooler’s Hangout? Every Thursday from 11am to 1pm our game passes will be only $3 per person.
RSVP by sending an email to events@wellplayedasheville.com
Nov 21 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
VISITING HOURS FOR SELF GUIDED TOURS:
Monday, 11:00am-12:00pm
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 11:00am – 1:00pm
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 3:00pm – 5:00pm
The following options for tours are available:
COMPLIMENTARY GUIDED TOURS – Schedule a tour by completing the online form. Tours Available Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 1:30pm (These tours take 45 minutes), and immediately after Sunday Masses. Mass times are Saturday, 5:00 p.m., Sunday, 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 Noon (these tours take 25 minutes). Tours of the Basilica of Saint Lawrence must be prescheduled at least two weeks in advance and re-confirmed with the Tour Coordinator before your scheduled visit. Trained Docents (tour guides) are provided unless you make other arrangements with the Tour Coordinator.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR – The brochure, The Art & Architecture of the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, D.M., provides a very informative self-guided tour. When visiting the Basilica, copies may be found in the side vestibule. You may also download a copy of the brochure HERE
Tours are free but donations are very much appreciated.
Church parking is located in the first lot to the west of the Parish Office building and behind the Basilica. On weekends additional parking available is in the large gated lot across the street.
The Basilica’s parking lots are clearly marked “Church Parking.” Parishioners and the many Visitors who attend Mass at the Basilica usually find our parking adequate unless they arrive late. There is no charge for parking to attend daily and weekend Masses, and other church activities.
When visiting the Basilica please pay close attention to our parking lot signage, as parking in non-church lots may result in the unpleasant, expensive experience of having your vehicle towed.
Nov 21 @ 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Citizen Vinyl is a communal space housing a record press facility, cafe, bar, recording studio & analog art & record store – located in the historic Citizen Times building in downtown Asheville – an incredible specimen of the Art Moderne style whose grand civic space serves to celebrate the history of manufacturing & craft alongside the current state of music, food & beverage within our local community.
A very few walk-up spots are available for most public tours, but reservations are strongly recommended — first come first served! Gather at the Coda Shop Counter for your guide at the scheduled time, Tours will last ~45 minutes. Punctuality is appreciated: Late-comers may join in at any point before the group heads up to the recording studio, about 20 minutes in.
Be advised that there is limited access [ stairs / elevator to the 3rd floor ] due to the nature of the historically preserved 1930’s construction. Please email tours@CitizenVinyl.com ahead of time with any questions or concerns!
“You can watch blobs of vinyl smooshed into discs, then trimmed into perfect circles, while listening to the Daily Sides—curated playlists available in printed form on clipboards. On one molasses-slow Asheville afternoon, as light streamed through some of the twenty-thousand glass bricks, Lauryn Hill’s voice filled the air. “ – Esquire
Tours Offered by Appointment Only, Wed-Sun
Nov 21 @ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Drop in to our gym Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays from 12:30 pm-1:30 pm, for an hour of free play or self training.
Entry fee is $15 per child ages 5 or older. $10 per child ages 4 & under. No pre registration required.
Nov 21 @ 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
MONDAYS: 9:00am-12:00pm
TUESDAYS: 9:00am-12:00pm
WEDNESDAYS: 2:00pm-5:00pm
THURSDAYS: 2:00pm-5:00pm
1st & 3rd SATURDAYS: 9:00am-12:00pm
Playspace AVL is a neighborhood/community playspace for babes, tots and their loved ones. Our curated environment is filled with several different types of gross motor opportunities and play experiences for littles from age birth to 3 years old.
Nov 21 @ 4:00 pm – 4:30 pm
A special after-school workshop just for our youngest cat-lovers. Families with children age 7 & under are invited to relax in the cat lounge and listen to a cat-centric book surrounded by our resident panthers! Foster a love of reading in your kiddos while also socializing the cats in the lounge.
Tickets are $15 and include entry for 1 (one) child + 1 (one) adult. Additional children can be added for $10 at checkout. MAX: TWO children per ONE adult.
Black Cat Tales Story Time workshop is held Wednesday-Friday at House of Black Cat Magic in West Asheville from 4-4:30PM.
Nov 21 @ 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Thursdays, 4:00pm-11:00pm
Nov 21 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
The East Asheville Welcome Table, an outstanding partner of ours, is run by a group of volunteers who love interacting with their community.
If you or anyone you know lives near East Asheville and could benefit from a free dinner, be sure to stop by the East Asheville Welcome Table from 5-6:30 PM on Thursdays.
Nov 21 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Drop into our studio to experiment freely and collaborate using different materials, tools, and techniques! Visit a chosen artwork in the galleries for inspiration, then head to the studio to create. All ages and abilities are welcome (children must be accompanied by an adult); no reservations are required.
Nov 21 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
At 5:30 pm on Fridays, Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (A new weekly featured movie begins each Friday)
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co. will be showing a different kids movie each week so you can bring your little’s for something fun to watch on the big screen while enjoying food and beverages.
Nov 21 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Every third Thursday!
Join us for some amazing food and joyful fellowship.
Nov
22
Fri
Nov 22 all-day
In addition to story times for the little ones (see our calendar for those), our local libraries have several clubs, classes, and other fun programs on their calendars for families with kids of all ages. And, unless they specify that you must register in advance for an event, you won’t likely need a library account with that county to attend them! Visit the events calendars for the numerous library systems we have in our area, below …
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BUNCOMBE COUNTY LIBRARIES … EVENT CALENDAR HERE
- Black Mountain Library @ 105 N. Dougherty St., Black Mountain, NC 28711 | (828) 250-4756
- East Asheville Library @ 3 Avon Rd., Asheville | (828) 250-4738
- Enka-Candler Library @ 1404 Sand Hill Road, Candler, NC 28715 | (828) 250-4758
- Fairview Library @ 1 Taylor Road, Fairview, NC 28730 | (828) 250-6484
- Leicester Library @ 1561 Alexander Road, Leicester, NC 28748 | (828) 250-6480
- North Asheville Library @ 1030 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 | (828) 250-4752
- Oakley/South Asheville Library @ 749 Fairview Road, Asheville, NC 28803 | (828) 250-4754
- Pack Memorial Library @ 67 Haywood Street, Asheville, NC 28801 | (828) 250-4700
- Skyland/South Buncombe Library @ 260 Overlook Road, Asheville, NC 28803 | (828) 250-6488
- Swannanoa Library @ 101 W. Charleston Ave. Swannanoa, NC 28778 | (828) 250-6486
- Weaverville Library @ 41 N. Main Street, Weaverville, NC 28787 | (828) 250-6482
- West Asheville Library @ 942 Haywood Road, Asheville, NC 28806 | (828) 250-4750
HENDERSON COUNTY LIBRARIES … EVENT CALENDAR HERE
- Main Library @ 301 N Washington St., Hendersonville, NC 28739 | (828) 697-4725
- Fletcher Library @ 120 Library Road, Fletcher, NC 28732 | (828) 687-1218
- Edneyville Library @ 2 Firehouse Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 | (828) 685-0110
- Etowah Library @ 101 Brickyard Rd, Etowah, NC 28729 | (828) 891-6577
- Green River Library @ 50 Green River Rd, Zirconia, NC 28790 | (828) 697-4969
- Mills River Library @ 124 Town Center Dr., Suite 1, Mills River, NC 28759 | (828) 890-1850
HAYWOOD COUNTY LIBRARIES … EVENT CALENDAR HERE
- Canton Branch @ 11 Pennsylvania Avenue Canton, NC 28716 | (828) 648-2924
- Fines Creek Branch @ 190 Fines Creek Road Clyde, NC 28721 | (828) 356-2551
- Maggie Valley Branch @ 3987 Soco Road Town Hall Maggie Valley, NC 28751 | (828) 356-2541
- Waynesville Branch @ 678 S Haywood Street Waynesville, NC 28786 | (828) 452-5169
MCDOWELL COUNTY LIBRARIES … EVENT CALENDAR HERE
- Marion Library @ 90 W Court St, Marion, NC 28752 | (828) 652-3858
- Old Fort Library @ 65 E Mitchell St, Old Fort, NC 28762 | (828) 668-7111
Nov 22 @ 6:00 am – 1:00 pm
6:00am-8:00am and 11:00am-1:00pm, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
The YMCA of Western North Carolina partners with Buncombe County Schools to manage the new Buncombe County Schools Aquatics Center. The 17,380 square foot building features a 10-lane, 400,000 gallon climate-controlled pool. The center also includes 420 spectator seats, a state-of-the-art timing and scoreboard system, UV water filtration, and numerous energy efficient design features.
At this time, we only offer lap swimming. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult and pass a swim test to be in the pool.
Nov 22 @ 7:00 am – 11:00 pm
The City of Hendersonville’s Skate Park is located in Patton Park across from Patton Pool. The skate park is open to the public and is an unattended facility, the hours are 7am-11pm.
NO BIKES ALLOWED ON THE SKATE PARK
The Skate Park features include:
- Bowl – 8-ft deep with waterfall
- 4-ft ramp
- 4-ft quarter pipe with a 2-ft seat extention
- 8 sets of stairs with handrails
- Rainbow ledge – 4-ft wide x 20-ft long
- 3 – Flat ledges
- Grind rail
- 2 hubba ledges
- 5-ft quarter pipe
- Designed & constructed by GRINDLINE SKATEPARKS INC.
Nov 22 @ 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
If you haven’t heard of Kids in Parks or TRACK Trails yet, you’ve been missing out! TRACK Trails is a trail program that was started here in Asheville (but has since spread across the country!) by Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, a network of local Pediatricians, and the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, to “promote children’s health and the health of our parks”, and we have several in our area. Kids in Parks is an ever expanding network of family-friendly, self-guided outdoor adventures, and “include hiking trails, biking trails, geocaching trails, paddling trails, nature trail disc golf courses, and even adventures you can do in your own back yard”. Register your child online, and as they complete the trail, they earn prizes for tracking their adventures! Best of all, it’s all FREE!
Nov 22 @ 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Our comprehensive guide to Asheville Area Playgrounds is your ultimate resource for recreation in Asheville with kids! Indoor playgrounds, as well as outdoor playgrounds are included, with everything you need to know in advance to plan your family friendly outing in Asheville and the surrounding area!
This guide is a continuous work in progress, and we will keep adding to it, so keep checking back!
Nov 22 @ 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Explore Cruso Farmer’s Market every Tuesday and Friday from 8AM-2PM beginning May 28th through Nov 29th, 2024.
Fresh from the field to your fork! Support local farmers, savor homemade produce, and scoop up other homemade goods. Stop by for a dose of delicious, wholesome goodness!
Nov 22 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Spreadsheet of MANNA FoodBank – Public Food Pantries and Meal Sites Sorted by County, Zip Code, then Agency Name at the link listed.
Nov 22 @ 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Available Monday through Friday, 8:00am-12:00pm
Some classes currently have a waitlist; register now and you will receive an update email regarding the enrollment status.
Nov 22 @ 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Asheville is an amazing city with so much to see and do, and while we have some amazing group tour companies, sometimes we want to venture out on our own to learn about the culture and history of our area … with just our family, on our schedule and timetable, to explore our interests, on our own path. A great way to do that, and a great way to save some money (THESE ARE ALL FREE), is to take one of the many self-guided tours that have been created by our local experts at our tourism centers, and historic sites. We’ve compiled the list attached of some of our favorites for you, with links to them all, that we hope you will enjoy and learn as much from as we did and still do. If we’re missing any of your favorites, let us know, so that we can share them, too!
Check them all out at the link above
Nov 22 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
FREE ADMISSION TO LOCAL ATTRACTIONS! Buncombe County Public Libraries have teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders through their ZOOM pass program! All you’ll need is a Buncombe County library card in good standing to reserve one. You can make 1 reservation at a time per library card, up to 30 days in advance, and you may visit each attraction once every 30 days. The process is simple! Reserve your pass on the Buncombe County Libraries website, pick up the pass at the library of your choosing, and go have fun! They’ll even send you an email confirmation of your reservation and a reminder email the day before your visit, so you don’t forget!
All reservations are made online, so you won’t be able to call or email to make a reservation.
WHAT’S CURRENTLY BEING OFFERED:
ASHEVILLE ART MUSEUM … Pass admits 2 adults and 4 children under age 18. For general admission only and doesn’t include special exhibits or events that have an additional charge.
ASHEVILLE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE … Pass admits four people (Children under 2 are admitted free and don’t need a pass). For admission only and doesn’t include additional programming fees.
HANDS ON! CHILDREN’S MUSEUM … Family Pass admits 4 people. You can get $10 off a membership to Hands On! on the day of your ZOOM pass visit.
NORTH CAROLINA ARBORETUM … One pass per car for personal vehicles. Doesn’t include special exhibits or events that have an additional charge (like Winter Lights).
PADDLEBOATS AT LAKE JULIAN … One ZOOM pass = one 30 minute Paddleboat ride. Minimum passenger age is 2 years old. Minimum age to rent a paddleboat is 16 years old and the paddleboat must have at least one person 16 years of age or older on board.
TEAM ECCO AQUARIUM AND SHARK LAB … The ZOOM Family Pass for the Team Ecco Aquarium and Shark Lab admits 4 people. This pass is available Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
WATERCRAFT LAUNCH PASS AT LAKE JULIAN … One ZOOM Pass = one personal watercraft daily launch pass (no gas powered engines on the lake).
WNC NATURE CENTER … Family Pass admits 2 adults and 4 children under age 18 (Children under 2 are admitted free and don’t need a pass).
WELL PLAYES BOARD GAME CAFE … There are two passes available Monday through Thursday starting July 1st. Each pass admits two adults and four kids.
BUNCOMBE COUNTY OUTDOOR POOLS … Seasonally, Beginning May 27th in 2023! Family Pass admits 4 people, and can be used at Cane Creek Pool, Erwin Pool, Hominy Valley Pool, North Buncombe Pool, Owen Pool.
Buncombe County Libraries also partners often with Asheville Community Theatre and NC Stage Company for passes to performances
Seasonally, you may even see passes to Buncombe County pools in the summer, and passes to Winter Lights at Lake Julian in the Winter!
Live in neighboring counties? Several other counties have their own version of ZOOM! We know Henderson County, Transylvania County, Madison County, and Polk County all do! You can also apply for an out of county library card with Buncombe County for a small $20 yearly fee, in which case you’ll qualify to participate in their ZOOM Pass program! Apply in person at any Buncombe County Library branch to become an out of county cardholder. Our guide to Buncombe County Library branches HERE
GET YOUR PIN NUMBER READY AND RESERVE YOUR ZOOM PASS HERE
Nov 22 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
The Henderson County Public Library has teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders with a ZOOM pass! Reservations can be made between 5 and 30 days in advance. Your household may visit one attraction every 30 days. Check the pass details to see how many adults and children gain entry with each pass.
👉 Have your library card ready and book yours at the link above
Nov 22 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Transylvania County Public Library has teamed up with local attractions and museums to offer FREE ADMISSION for library card holders with a ZOOM pass! Reservations can be made between 5 and 30 days in advance. Your household may visit one attraction every 30 days. Check the pass details to see how many adults and children gain entry with each pass.
👉 Have your library card ready and book yours at the link above
Nov 22 @ 9:30 am – 7:30 pm
Waterpark operating hours: *subject to change at anytime due to staffing shortages*
- Fridays 9:30am-11:30am (Tot time, ages 6 & under only)
- Fridays 3:30pm-7:30pm (normal operation)
- Saturdays 11:30am-3:30pm
Nov 22 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Primarily Saturdays and Sundays and some Fridays, throughout the day. You choose your class time from their calendar.
Receive a guided experience to create your own glass keepsakes in our glassblowing studio. In this hands-on class, you will work one-on-one with an experienced instructor to create a unique piece of glass art.
Choose between crafting a paperweight, ornament, pumpkin, or cup, then customize your piece with your choice of two colors. Learn the basics of glassblowing, and feel free to ask questions as your instructor assists you during the entire process! All levels welcome.
- If you would like to share this experience with others, please book consecutive or duplicate time slots for you to each create a piece of your own. 2 spectators are welcome free of charge.
- Spectators must stay within the designated viewing area throughout the experience. Masks are optional.
- Items will be ready to take home 24 hours after the experience. If you are unable to pick up your item, we can ship it for an additional charge.
Students must be 13 years of age or older and accompanied by Parent or Legal Guardian if under 16 years of age.
There is a non-refundable $25 deposit when booking classes. We allow cancellations up to 48 hours before the start time of your class. If you cancel less than 48 hours before the start of your class, you will not receive a refund.
Due to the nature of the schedule we allow a 5 minute grace period. Any tardiness beyond 5 minutes may result in a forfeited class and payment.
Nov 22 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Mobile Food Markets visit dozens of locations each month, pairing free healthy food with tasty recipes, practical cooking demonstrations, and valuable nutrition information that’s easy to understand. Spanish-speaking community staff are also on hand to connect attendees with local resources. Distributions are FREE and open to the public, no questions asked.
FIND THE SCHEDULE AT THE LINK HERE
Nov 22 @ 10:30 am – 4:15 pm
Story Times for Kids at the library focuses on early literacy as it helps children develop a joy for learning language and enjoying books. Story times are subject to cancellation or rearrangement on the schedule without notice. Please check to be sure that the story time is still scheduled to occur, at the link we’ve provided.
DESCRIPTIONS:
Baby Story Time is a lively language enrichment story time serving our youngest folks—the 4 month-old to 18 month-old set.
Toddler Times are interactive story times for children ages 18 months to 3 years.
Preschool story times are geared towards 3-5 year-olds and include singing, stretchers, and creative activities.
Hora Del Cuento is a bilingual story time for all ages, where you’ll share books, rhymes, and songs in Spanish and in English
TUESDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ Fairview Library (1 Taylor Rd., Fairview)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Hora Del Cuento @ Oakley/South Asheville Library (749 Fairview Rd., Asheville)
- 3:30pm-4:15pm – Baby Story Time @ Weaverville Library (41 N. Main St., Weaverville)
WEDNESDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ Black Mountain Library (105 N. Dougherty St., Black Mountain)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Toddler Story Time @ Enka-Candler Library (1404 Sandhill Rd., Candler)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ Weaverville Library (41 N. Main St., Weaverville)
- 3:30pm-4:15pm – Preschool Story Time @ Pack Memorial Library (67 Haywood St., Asheville)
THURSDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ Swannanoa Library (101 W. Charleston Ave., Swannanoa)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Toddler Story Time @ Fairview Library (1 Taylor Rd., Fairview)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Toddler Story Time @ Leicester Library (1561 Alexander Rd., Leicester)
FRIDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Toddler Story Time @ North Asheville Library (1030 Merrimon Ave., Asheville)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Baby Story Time @ Oakley/South Asheville Library (749 Fairview Rd., Asheville)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Hora Del Cuento @ Skyland/South Buncombe Library (260 Overlook Rd., Asheville)
SATURDAYS:
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ East Asheville Library (3 Avon Rd., Asheville)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Preschool Story Time @ West Asheville Library (942 Haywood Rd., Asheville)
- 10:30am-11:15am – Baby Story Time @ Leicester Library (1561 Alexander Rd., Leicester)
Nov 22 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wed-Sat 11:00am, 1:00pm & 3:00pm
Mon & Tues 11:00am & 1:00pm
Dive into the magical world of bean-to-bar chocolate right here in Asheville by taking a Bean to Bar Chocolate Factory Tour with French Broad Chocolates. Their Bean to Bar Chocolate Factory Tour includes a classroom session about the history of French Broad Chocolate, an overview of cacao farming, a chocolate tasting experience, and a guided viewing of their chocolate factory where guests explore each step of their chocolate-making process, from the roasting of the cacao bean to their tempering of their chocolate bars. During the tour, guests will taste cacao in several forms – roasted bean, bar, and bonbon, and compare and contrast flavor notes in samples of three different chocolate bars.
Tours are approximately 45-55 minutes.
They ask that guests arrive 5-10 minutes before your tour start time to check in at the cafe counter.
Tours are NOT at French Broad Chocolate Lounge in Pack Square. All tours take place at French Broad Chocolate Factory & Cafe, 821 Riverside Drive, Asheville NC 28801.
Nov 22 @ 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Explore our brewery nestled in the Appalachians.
When we brewed our first batch of beer in 1980 in Chico, California, the lush forests of North Carolina were far from our mind. Over the last four decades, our thirst to brew quality, flavorful beer led us across the country and around the globe. In 2012, we broke ground on our second production location in order to send the freshest beer possible to our friends and fans all over the world. Come visit our sprawling East Coast home in Mills River, North Carolina and see first-hand how determination and a pioneering spirit can lead to incredible adventures. Our tours fill up quickly. You must make reservations online for all tours except the Guided Tastings and the self-guided Visitor Corridor.
SUNDAY–THURSDAY
11:00am–9:00pm
FRIDAY–SATURDAY
11:00am–10:00pm
GUIDED:
- Brewery Tour – Mills River, NC … Duration: 45 minutes | Ages 12+ only | $9/Person | Reservation required
Whether you’re just getting into craft beer or we’re on your brewery bucket list, a Mills River tour is for you — so we recommend you reserve a spot! Our interactive tours offer everything from hop handling to nature hikes to — what you really came for — beer sampling.
- Beyond the Pale Tour – Mills River, NC … Duration: 90 minutes | Ages 12+ only | $25/Person | Reservation required
Join us for a taste of our iconic Sierra Nevada Pale Ale as we dive into our roots: from humble beginnings in Chico, California to our LEED Platinum certified facility in Mills River, North Carolina. We will walk through our production facility, exploring the brewing process and ingredients, and highlight how our sustainability commitment fits into it all. We will end with guided tasting of eight beers in our Grand Tasting Room and Bar. Wheelchair accessible. No one under 12 years old permitted.
- Trip in the Woods Hiking Tour … Duration: 2 to 2 1/2 hours | Ages 12+ only | $30/Person | Reservation required
Our Mills River brewery is nestled within over 200 acres of lush, forested land just waiting to be explored, so join us on a Trip in the Woods! On this 1.5-mile guided nature hike, you will explore our beautiful, forested property, visit our resident chickens, donkeys, and sheep who graze freely across nearly 4 acres of pasture, and wrap up with a sampling of a few of our award-winning brews in our Back Porch Beer Garden. Grab your hiking shoes and get ready for a beer adventure! *The loop trail features moderate elevation change. Those with allergies should note that the group will hike near our beehives.
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SELF GUIDED:
- Visitor Corridor … Duration: At your leisure | All ages | No reservation required | Sunday-Thursday: 11am-8pm, Friday-Saturday: 11am-9pm
Groups not your thing? We get it. For those who prefer to wander solo, our Brewery has been designed with guests in mind! Our upstairs Visitor Corridor includes a raised mezzanine for bird’s-eye views of our copper-clad brewhouse, a real-time look at fermenting beer and a visit to our warehouse and packaging hall. Self-guided tour areas do not require a reservation, and are open to the public during normal business hours.
Nov 22 @ 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Citizen Vinyl is a communal space housing a record press facility, cafe, bar, recording studio & analog art & record store – located in the historic Citizen Times building in downtown Asheville – an incredible specimen of the Art Moderne style whose grand civic space serves to celebrate the history of manufacturing & craft alongside the current state of music, food & beverage within our local community.
A very few walk-up spots are available for most public tours, but reservations are strongly recommended — first come first served! Gather at the Coda Shop Counter for your guide at the scheduled time, Tours will last ~45 minutes. Punctuality is appreciated: Late-comers may join in at any point before the group heads up to the recording studio, about 20 minutes in.
Be advised that there is limited access [ stairs / elevator to the 3rd floor ] due to the nature of the historically preserved 1930’s construction. Please email tours@CitizenVinyl.com ahead of time with any questions or concerns!
“You can watch blobs of vinyl smooshed into discs, then trimmed into perfect circles, while listening to the Daily Sides—curated playlists available in printed form on clipboards. On one molasses-slow Asheville afternoon, as light streamed through some of the twenty-thousand glass bricks, Lauryn Hill’s voice filled the air. “ – Esquire
Tours Offered by Appointment Only, Wed-Sun
Nov 22 @ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Fridays, April 5th, 2024 through November 22nd, 3:00pm-6:00pm
Fresh vegetables, plant starts, meats, cheese, eggs, chocolates, cut flowers, honey, candles, breads, sweet treats, jams, berries, hand-crafted wooden ware!
EBT/SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
SNAP Incentives
Nov 22 @ 4:00 pm – 4:30 pm
A special after-school workshop just for our youngest cat-lovers. Families with children age 7 & under are invited to relax in the cat lounge and listen to a cat-centric book surrounded by our resident panthers! Foster a love of reading in your kiddos while also socializing the cats in the lounge.
Tickets are $15 and include entry for 1 (one) child + 1 (one) adult. Additional children can be added for $10 at checkout. MAX: TWO children per ONE adult.
Black Cat Tales Story Time workshop is held Wednesday-Friday at House of Black Cat Magic in West Asheville from 4-4:30PM.
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