WNC Entertainment -- From the heart of downtown Asheville to the rolling pastures of Fairview, Western North Carolina is alive with music, theater, and community spirit this weekend. Whether you are looking for a high-energy dance floor or a quiet afternoon of local craft, here is your complete guide to the best entertainment the mountains have to offer.
Friday, May 15: Street Parties and Center Stage
Downtown After 5: Pack Square Park (80 Court Plaza, Asheville). The monthly favorite returns with a "Latin Dance Night" theme. Enjoy the rhythms of La Sonora Carolina and flamenco guitarist Ulisse Rotoli. (5 p.m. – 9 p.m.)
The Asheville Ballet presents Cinderella: Wortham Center for the Performing Arts (18 Biltmore Ave, Asheville). A magical evening of dance for all ages. (7:30 p.m.)
Dance Your Decade Party: The Orange Peel (101 Biltmore Ave, Asheville). A high-energy trip through the greatest hits of the past 40 years. (7 p.m.)
Cristina Vane in Concert: The Grey Eagle (185 Clingman Ave, Asheville). Soulful blues and slide guitar in the heart of the River Arts District. (8 p.m.)
Juice: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. (100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River). Live music on the outdoor stage. (7 p.m.)
Saturday, May 16: Barn Dances and Ballgames
Barn Dance & Cider Release: Hickory Nut Gap Farm (57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview). Dust off your boots for Zydeco Ya Ya and enjoy the latest farm-pressed cider. (5 p.m.)
Asheville Tourists vs. Greensboro: HomeTrust Park (30 Buchanan Pl, Asheville). Experience the newly renovated stadium (formerly McCormick Field) as the Tourists take on Greensboro. (6:05 p.m.)
Asheville Symphony Masterworks 7: First Baptist Church (5 Oak St, Asheville). A powerful afternoon performance titled Unbroken. (2 p.m.)
Gluten-Free Comedy: Ginger’s Revenge (829 Riverside Dr, Asheville). A night of laughs at one of Asheville’s most unique taprooms. (7 p.m.)
Better Together All Stock Horse Breed Show: Tryon International (4066 Pea Ridge Rd, Mill Spring). A must-see for equestrian enthusiasts. (Starts at 8 a.m.)
Sunday, May 17: Jazz, Spelling, and Spring Blooms
Asheville Jazz Orchestra: White Horse Black Mountain (105 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain). Big Band Night featuring local jazz legends. (7:30 p.m.)
Adult Spelling Bee: Leveller Brewing (25 N Main St, Weaverville). Test your vocabulary while enjoying a local brew. (6 p.m.)
Meschiya Lake: The Grey Eagle (185 Clingman Ave, Asheville). Free afternoon music to wind down the weekend. (2 p.m.)
Spring Into The Arb!: The North Carolina Arboretum (100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville). Special weekend garden displays and educational exhibits. (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
Local Spotlight: The Transformation of HomeTrust Park
Visitors to the baseball diamond this weekend will notice a new look. The historic stadium, formerly known as McCormick Field, has officially transitioned to HomeTrust Park. This change accompanies a $38.5 million renovation, ensuring the Tourists remain a staple of Asheville entertainment for years to come.
Disclaimer: Event details, including times and locations, are subject to change without notice. We recommend verifying details with the individual venues before traveling. wnctimes is not responsible for cancellations or schedule shifts.