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What inspires local farmers to create corn mazes? How far in advance do they plan each year’s design? And why would anyone willingly get lost for half an hour among rows of the same vegetable? Xpress set out to discover the answers to these questions and more!
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City Council must correct housing access exclusion
On Oct. 1, the Asheville Planning and Zoning Commission voted to make it easier to convert nonconforming structures — like older garages and homes built before zoning — into much-needed housing. These are buildings that don’t match today’s zoning rules but could become backyard cottages or small homes. Until now, property owners faced a costly and complicated process through the Board of Adjustment. This reform is a step toward greater housing access.
But here’s the problem: The Commission chose to exclude certain neighborhoods from this opportunity. And not just any neighborhoods —historically Black, brown and more vulnerable communities. Why? Because some residents voiced opposition based upon concerns about neighborhood change. In response, the Commission carved these neighborhoods out of the policy.
Let’s be clear: When policymakers create rules that intentionally limit housing opportunities for entire communities, history has a name for it — redlining. We know the long-term damage those decisions created: lost generational wealth, entrenched inequality and neighborhoods left behind. We have no excuse for repeating that mistake in 2025. The intent to “protect” a neighborhood from change must never lead to an outcome that restricts opportunities. Policy decisions, regardless of
Word of the week
remonstrate
(trans. v.) to say or plead in protest, reproof or opposition
Thousands of people in Western North Carolina participated in the No Kings nationwide protest on Oct. 18. Many held signs remonstrating the Trump administration. For photos of the Asheville event, turn to Page 8. X
intent, must prioritize equitable access to solutions; restricting options for certain communities is not protection, it is institutional neglect.
The Asheville Regional Housing Needs Assessment shows we need about 12,000 more housing units within the next five years. Every barrier we remove matters, and every community deserves the same access to solutions. Excluding the very neighborhoods that have already borne the brunt of past discrimination only deepens today’s divides.
City Council now has the opportunity — and the responsibility — to correct this. Reform should apply fairly and equally across Asheville, not only in privileged neighborhoods. If we are serious about solving the housing crisis, we must commit to policies that expand opportunity for everyone. To genuinely protect these communities is to ensure they have every opportunity afforded to others. Anything less repeats the injustices of the past.
— Name withheld Asheville
Thumbs-up for hospital competition
[Regarding “Presentation on Weaverville Hospital Sparks Tense Exchange Between AdventHealth Official, Mission CEO,” Oct. 6, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress website:]
I spent my career in the health care industry, the last eight years as a hospital management consultant. I can tell you that there is a different mindset in a nonprofit hospital versus a for-profit hospital.
Nonprofits are community focused; their boards are composed of community members; and they are required to provide benefits to the community, which include meeting community health needs and providing financial assistance. For-profits must keep shareholders happy, hence the difference.
I am all for AdventHealth giving Mission a run for their money. Considering how generally unhappy
the community is with Mission, I think some competition is well warranted.
— Joan Signorille Asheville
More hospital choice, please
[ Regarding “Presentation on Weaverville Hospital Sparks Tense Exchange Between AdventHealth Official, Mission CEO,” Oct. 6, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress website:]
I definitely support AdventHealth’s application to build a hospital in Weaverville. Currently, Mission has no competition in Buncombe, so AdventHealth’s new hospital will provide competition. We need competitors to improve overall care and provide a hospital choice for our citizens.
— Philip Newton East Asheville
All neighborhoods can benefit from opportunities for more housing
A four-county Asheville Regional Housing Needs Assessment, unveiled in August, reported that Asheville needs to add 11,000 homes in just the next five years. This won’t happen without updates to the city’s zoning code, which fosters housing scarcity by design. That scarcity is the prime driver of what the city terms “economic displacement,” which is when residents can’t live here anymore due to rising rents.
So how can Asheville meet these needs when even small proposed zoning changes lead to outsized fear and backlash?
On Oct. 1, a minor amendment to Asheville’s ADU (accessory dwelling unit) law went before the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission. It’s a housing policy change so moderate that it only applies to existing
CARTOON BY RANDY MOLTON
structures. Yet by the end of the commission’s hearing, they had voted to recommend excluding entire neighborhoods from the amendment.
Part of the fear is around what the city calls “physical displacement,” a secondary phenomenon to economic displacement, whereby pent-up demand for housing combines with other factors that spike land values. This fosters property transfers that see renters kicked out in the process. While economic displacement is the paramount crisis in Asheville today, there are real historical precedents — think “urban renewal” and “opportunity zones” — that validate concerns about policy-induced land value shocks.
But the research is clear, according to two recent city reports: Asheville’s 2023 Missing Middle Housing StudyDisplacement Risk Assessment as well as the 2024 Affordable Housing Plan. If we want to tackle both forms of displacement, we must allow increments of more housing — and more kinds of housing — in all of our core neighborhoods. This distributed approach has been proven, in cities ranging from Portland, Ore., to Auckland, New Zealand, to increase cheaper housing options while simultaneously slowing gentrification.
The desire to wall off neighborhoods from change, especially those considered to have vulnerable populations, is understandable. But freezing
neighborhoods against growth only accelerates demographic change. It turns housing into a zero-sum game: If a newcomer arrives, that means an old-timer has to leave. It’s a devil’s bargain that trades the possibility of physical displacement for the inevitability of economic displacement. On this, Asheville’s own Displacement Risk Assessment warns specifically that excluding vulnerable neighborhoods from infill housing is “not a valid anti-displacement strategy.”
Further, some of the city’s potential “missing middle” solutions involve opportunities for cash-strapped residents to tap into their home’s value. Converting sheds into ADUs or splitting houses into duplexes are win-win solutions, helping renters and owners, too. There’s an ugly tradition of foreclosing investment in low-income and minority neighborhoods — see Asheville’s 1937 Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC) redlining map that harmed poor whites and Blacks alike. We shouldn’t repeat historical errors simply for fear of change.
The ADU policy amendment is scheduled for a City Council vote on Oct. 28. Make no mistake, it’s a modest change that doesn’t match the urgency of Asheville’s housing crisis. But it’s a start. For the most equitable outcomes, it should be approved citywide.
— Andrew Paul Asheville
Don’t cut corners on Malvern Hills pool
As a lap swimmer and swim instructor, I know the importance of pool design that serves everyone — from kids learning to swim to teens training as lifeguards to adults seeking fitness. That’s why the proposed T-shaped redesign of Malvern Hills pool is so troubling.
Designers claim the plan “maintains” or even increases the “usable” area, but only by redefining the deep end as “not usable.” The public won’t buy it. Deep water is not wasted space — it’s essential. Teens need it to build lifesaving skills, and adults need it for instruction. Many basic exercises, from treading water to vertical kicking, require depth. Without a deep end, we lose opportunities for real swim education and safety training.
A rectangular pool with a full-size deep end would offer the most flexibility. It allows for structured lap swimming, teen and adult fitness, and skill development across all ages. With a 30-year lifespan, the additional cost for a proper design is minimal in the long view.
Asheville deserves better. Leaders must prioritize a true rebuild — not a cut-rate redesign — if we want a pool that will serve the whole community for generations to come.
— Diana Prechter Asheville
Let’s allow even more health system choice
[Regarding “Presentation on Weaverville Hospital Sparks Tense Exchange Between AdventHealth Official, Mission CEO,” Oct. 6, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress website:]
After decades of enduring the backand-forth between AdventHealth and Mission Health, of course more competition in our region would be welcome, both for patient choice and, hopefully, lower costs.
So why does Novant Health always seem to come out on the short end of the stick when additional hospital beds or facilities come up for bidding? Recently, Novant asked to add a diagnostic imaging center (CT, etc.) to be added to its facility under construction in South Asheville but was turned down with the excuse that we already have sufficient facilities of that type in the area. Really?
I recently tore a bicep tendon and needed an MRI. When I called to schedule with Mission Imaging, the wait time was three-four weeks out — and same at Open MRI. Let’s allow another health system to expand here. I’m tired of listening to the same old bickering between these two largest systems in our region.
— Jim DeGrave, RN (retired) Arden X
CARTOON BY BRENT BROWN
NEWS
Turning up the volume
Council tables proposal for downtown social district
BY BRIONNA DALLARA
bdallara@mountainx.com
City staff presented a proposal at Asheville City Council’s Oct. 14 meeting to establish an event-based social district and revise the downtown noise ordinance. The presentation sparked debate among members of Council as well as public commenters over how best to support downtown businesses. But the proposal was apparently unacceptable. In a subsequent Oct. 16 press release from the City of Asheville, Mayor Esther Manheimer stated, “During the Oct. 14 Council meeting, it became evident that a social district fails to achieve this delicate balance as an activation strategy, and therefore, it will not be pursued at this time.”
Following a request this summer from the Asheville Downtown Association, Council’s Planning, Economic Development & Environment Committee advised staff on several short-term initiatives aimed at boosting foot traffic and economic activity downtown — two of which are already underway.
During the Oct. 14 meeting, Assistant City Manager Ben Woody presented details about the programs to Council, noting each initiative will be tracked, measured and evaluated to see how successful they are through their end date in December 2026. What initiatives are already underway?
• According to Woody’s presentation, city staff partnered with ArtsAVL last month to launch a grant program for smaller “open streets” events — closing roadways to traffic and opening them to gatherings such as block parties and street festivals. The Rolling Mini-Grant pilot provides up to $1,000 for pop-up and smaller-scale events and is accepting applications on an ongoing monthly basis until funds are exhausted or Dec. 31, 2026.
• The city also launched the limited series Food Truck Fridays on Oct. 3 that will run until Dec. 19 in Pack Square Park. Temporary food trucks are limited in the Central Business District, and the pilot program creates a framework to allow more short-term use, Woody said.
During public comment, residents shared mixed opinions about the
two pending proposals concerning an event-based social district and an amendment to the noise ordinance.
“If the pilot [program] cannot demonstrate community benefit, adjust it,” said Sekou Coleman, who spoke for Legacy Neighborhoods Coalition during public comment. “Do better at learning the history of the spaces you occupy and then create solutions with the community, not just for the market. That is how we recover in a way that sustains and regenerates culture for future generations.”
Vice Mayor Antanette Mosley also pointed to the fact that for several years, legacy neighborhoods have requested ordinance changes that have not been advanced as quickly as the amendments presented at the meeting that impact business downtown.
The current noise ordinance allows performance centers to obtain a permit to exceed the current noise ordinance for up to 30 events/days per calendar year. The proposed amendment would increase the maximum number of days to 50, with a sunset date of Dec. 31, 2026.
Mike Rangel, owner of Asheville Yards, along with Candice Dvoran, general manager of Wicked Weed Brewing, and Cheryl Antoncic, co-owner of Bear's Smokehouse BBQ, commended the proposal during public comment.
“I think it would be a great opportunity for us to see a larger economic impact — not just on the South Slope but ... even going up into Patton Avenue, hotels, etc., for the guests and those that visit our town,” said Antoncic.
The same representatives also spoke in favor of an event-based social district pilot program which would allow alcohol purchased from ABC-permitted businesses to be carried and consumed during five events — Mardi Gras Parade, Chai Pani Holi Celebration, Independence Day, Weenie Walk and Oktoberfest — in 2026. There would also be clear signage required within the district to mark the types of beverages allowed. After the sunset date, Council would have the ability to approve additional dates and/or social districts by ordinance at a later date.
Coleman said the legacy neighborhoods had three suggestions for the process for both items:
• Pair the pilot programs with a clear, actionable commitment to
engage legacy neighborhoods in both economic recovery planning and outcomes.
• Co-design the program with legacy neighborhood leaders, tying permit requirements to meaningful commitments like contracting with neighborhood vendors and supporting opportunities for youths from these communities.
• Measure and publicly report equity outcomes alongside sales and foot traffic, tracking and sharing data on who benefits.
The proposal to adjust the city’s noise ordinance will be revisited at Council’s Tuesday, Nov. 18, meeting.
MALVERN HILLS POOL DESIGN
Council also approved in a 4-2 vote, with Mosley and Smith dissenting, for City Manager Debra Campbell to authorize an additional $162,000 for design work with Asheville-based contractor Clark Nexsen to replace and update the 90-year-old Malvern Hills pool, plus $16,000 for potential modifications. The amendment brings the total contract to $431,400, with a contingency of $43,000.
At both a public meeting last month and through community outreach, city staff heard concerns from residents that the design for a new pool at Malvern Hills Park might be smaller
than the original and that broadening the scope of the project requires more costs.
At the Oct. 14 Council meetings, however, two residents said they were grateful for the project funding but opposed a redesign.
“I’m here to encourage you to vote yes on tonight's agenda item M to increase the budget for the Malvern Hills pool rebuild project,” said Sally Grau, a West Asheville resident. “[But] we didn’t ask for bells and whistles or fancy extras. Our community loves the pool as it is. We need this pool. We would like it to be fixed or rebuilt in its current footprint and reopened.”
Mosley said in a statement to Xpress that her “no” vote was because “the version before Council was the same concept presented to the Malvern Hills neighborhood, but residents made clear they preferred to rebuild the pool as it was. My ‘no’ vote reflected respect for that feedback.”
During the meeting, Manheimer noted that it is important to look at other designs.
“I think this will allow us the opportunity to move forward and look at some different designs, then price those out and deal with some of the ADA compliance requirements, and then we’ll see where that lands, but we’re not at that point yet,” she said, referring to the Americans with Disabilities Act. “[But] we’re still in the design phase, but I’m excited it’s moving along, and I’m sad that there isn’t a usable pool there for a period of time until the new pool is constructed.”
In other news
• The city’s Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Action Plan allocated $31 million to housing programs, including $3 million for single-family homeowner repairs. Council authorized the city manager to authorize a partnership with the state’s Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program to use the $3 million to administer home rehabilitation and reconstruction activities for Asheville homeowners on the city’s behalf.
• Council authorized the city manager to submit grant applications for two economic recovery proposals — an arts and entertainment facility and a feasibility study for a fourth water treatment plant — to the Economic Development Administration and any related grants that support these applications, provided they do not require a match.
This story was supported by the Fund for Investigative Reporting and Editing. X
COMMUNITY VOICE: Sekou Coleman spoke on behalf of the Legacy Neighborhoods Coalition during the Oct. 14 Asheville City Council meeting. Photo by Brionna Dallara
Heavy is the crown
Asheville’s No Kings rally draws thousands
As estimated 8,000 people gathered at Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville for the Oct. 18 No Kings rally. The event featured multiple speakers, musical performances and a march through downtown.
“There are some of those who call this gathering anti-American,” said speaker Molly Zenker, a registered nurse and Mission Nurses United representative. “But I think this may be about the most American thing I’ve ever done in my life.” Zenker went on to state, “The current administration wants us to live in fear, to stay divid ed, to hate those that don’t fit in a mythical standard of what is ‘normal.’ If there is anyone fit to tell you ... that no one is ‘normal’ — it’s a nurse.”
The Rev. Claudia Jimenez, minister of Faith Formation Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville, also spoke at the event. “My hope and my prayer is that someday you will be able to share with your beloveds — your children, your grandchildren — that you were here today in this historic moment, and that you went forth in the months and years ahead and did everything in your power to keep our democracy alive, that you did all that you could to say as loudly as you could: ‘No kings! No kings! No kings!’”
Additional events took place across Western North Carolina, including Black Mountain, Brevard, Burnsville, Hendersonville, Sylva, Marion and other cities and towns. For additional images and reporting, visit avl.mx/f5f and avl.mx/f5g
— Thomas Calder X
Photo by Thomas Calder
Photo by Thomas Calder
Photo by Thomas Calder
Photo by Thomas Calder
Photo by Don Knight
Photo by Thomas Calder
Photo by Jeffrey DeCristofaro
Asheville City school board OKs
one-time bonuses for all staff
The Asheville City Board of Education approved a one-time employee retention bonus of $1,000 for the fiscal year 2025-26 budget at its Oct. 13 meeting.
According to the recommendation, written by Asheville City Schools (ACS) Superintendent Maggie Fehrman and Chief Financial Officer Heidi Kerns, ACS can afford the bonus due to “a better-than-projected fiscal-year ending for last fiscal year and a lower-than-anticipated impact on the fund balance for 2025-26.”
Because of Buncombe County's tax base, however, ACS did not qualify for state-funded teacher raises. As a result, teacher compensation will decrease by at least $826 for the 2025-26 fiscal budget.
More than $840,000 will be allocated to cover the retention bonuses for all ACS staff.
Additionally, the recommendation notes that for the first time in seven years, health insurance premiums for most employees will increase in January. Premiums will be based on plan and salary tiers. Coverage increases for employees and family members will range from $10-$140 per month.
Growing alternative programming
Carrie Buchanan, executive director of Learning Pathways at William Randolph, and Sybil Jefferson, assistant principal, updated the board about its alternative programming for middle and high school students.
The Education and Career Academy (ECA) is a high school alternative pro-
MORE SUPPORT: Carrie Buchanan, right, executive director of Learning Pathways at William Randolph, and Sybil Jefferson, assistant principal, requested more financial support during the Oct. 13 Asheville City Board of Education meeting. Screen grab courtesy of Asheville City Schools YouTube channel
gram that provides students with a flexible and tailored education experience to prepare them for life after graduation. Currently, there are 49 students enrolled in the program.
The Cougar Academy program is a similar initiative for middle school grade levels, offering a variety of hands-on learning experiences that help students work toward goals and skills for reentry into Asheville Middle School. Currently, there are six students enrolled.
Buchanan says attendance in the program is higher than last year, with around 90% of the students showing up every day. With growing attendance and program support, Buchanan said, they would like the district to consider looking at ways to expand the career and technical education program.
Other requests for the campus included an on-site nurse to accommodate students’ medical needs.
— Brionna Dallara X
Mazed and confused
BY BRIONNA DALLARA
Dusk was creeping in fast, and I could’ve sworn I’d already passed that downed corn stalk a couple right turns ago — or had I gone left? No matter.
What did matter was getting the heck out of the maze before the scare actors started to infiltrate the rows of corn as part of the property’s evening feature: the haunting hour.
I was at Cold Mountain Corn Maize in Canton — my third labyrinth for the day. I had entered it riding high from the last maze at Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard, where I successfully bypassed a young couple locked in debate about which direction to go. (The fall activity can be a great team-building exercise if you aren’t too competitive with your partner.) But now, somewhere between swishing stalks and morning glories fighting to wrap around them, I was getting existential. Who am I? Where am I going? Aren’t we all just stumbling through a maze
of our own accord trying to find the best way out? Am I experiencing acute symptoms of agoraphobia? (You know, that feeling of fear in situations where escape might be difficult?) Why would anyone willingly get lost for half an hour among rows of the same vegetable?
My participation at this time wasn’t recreational, it was professional — an assignment to get lost in as many of the region’s corn mazes as I could in a single eight-hour period.
“See what it’s like and see what all you can find out about the growers,” my editor said.
But by round three, with the sun continuing its descent, all I could think was — how did I end up here?
YEAR-ROUND PROCESS
Well, it started in Leicester. Eliada Homes, a nonprofit that works with more than 600 children and youths each year through its range of educational and mental health programs, was my first stop of the day.
I was joined by the agency’s CEO, Andrew D’Onofrio, and its farm director, Erica Blumenfeld, who has overseen the property’s three mazes for the past seven years. She suggested we journey through the 0.2-mile Storybook Path, the easiest on the site and most conducive for a walk-and-talk interview.
While Eliada’s mazes typically operate for six weeks, it’s a year-round process, Blumenfeld said as we turned a corner. It involves everything from monitoring soil health to selecting the right seeds for June planting.
“Once the seed goes in, it’s kind of just monitoring the health of the crop for things like pests and disease, and then crossing our fingers that we get the perfect amount of rain,” Blumenfeld said.
RiverRock Clinic
Primary Care Physician Taking New Patients
One reporter’s adventure through three local corn mazes
CORN-QUEST: In an eight-hour period, Xpress writer Brionna Dallara ventured to corn mazes in Buncombe, Henderson and Haywood counties to learn more about the process and purpose behind each maze and to see how local growers fared in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene. Photo by Dallara
Unlike sweet corn, which is harvested when the kernels are still immature and yummy to taste, field corn is grown to full maturity, which takes anywhere between 90 and 150 days. Along with using the crop as animal feed, Eliada also employs some of its bounty as ammunition for its corn cannons — another seasonal feature visitors can experience each fall.
Tropical Storm Helene cut last year’s festivities short, but luckily, the storm didn’t impact the 2025 harvest, Blumenfeld said, leading us out of the maze on a positive note, where we were greeted by a tractor full of students from Asheville High’s Exceptional Children program eagerly awaiting their ride around the maze.
Since 2007, the fall activity has been a draw for families and busloads of students, D’Onofrio noted as the tractor hauled the group off. It is also the organization’s largest fundraiser, earning as much as $100,000.
“That helps fill a lot of holes in a budget that an organization like ours naturally has,” D’Onofrio said. “We depend heavily on donations and do a lot of programming associated with Medicaid billing. Of course, Medicaid billing is precarious right now. These types of events allow us to remain sustainable moving forward.”
The maze not only brings awareness to Eliada’s mission to serve the youths, D’Onofrio added as we neared the end of my visit, but harkens back to the
agency's agricultural roots. Today, its youth participants work among the property’s gardens, growing produce that they can enjoy as part of their lunch as well as donate to community food banks such as Bounty Soul.
A WELL-BEATEN DEAD END
Speaking of deep agricultural roots — my next stop was Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard in Hendersonville. For over 100 years, the farm has grown a bounty of Honey Crisp, Granny Smiths, Galas and a number of other varieties. And in 2015, the orchard began inviting guests to add a corn maze outing to their apple-picking spree.
I met co-owner Danielle Stepp McCall at the property’s main building, where T-shirts, hats and all things apples — slushies, doughnuts, ciders — were being sold to the latest cohort of visitors. Unlike Eliada’s hands-on approach to its maze, Stepp’s outsources its operation. “We’re not corn farmers, we’re apple farmers,” McCall told me. Still, the orchard’s latest design — a heart around the words “WNC Farms” — is part of Stepps’ efforts to show its support for local growers in the aftermath of Helene. This year, 10% of the corn maze proceeds will benefit Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project’s (ASAP) resiliency fund, which provides direct financial assistance to farmers during times of crisis.
During my visit, McCall was too busy ringing up customers in the barn to accompany me out to the maze. Considering the tempting smells of kettle corn and fresh apple pastries calling to me behind the counter, I was tempted to stay behind, too.
But I forged ahead, realizing as I neared the maze, I’d never done a solo walk before. As I approached the entrance, I encountered a group of ladies resting outside the corn. I asked if they had any advice. Well, it turned out the group had thrown in the towel after 15 minutes and came back out the entrance.
Nevertheless, they did have a few insights. One member encouraged me to stick to the well-beaten path as it promised to be the correct way out. But another one questioned the theory, noting that lost travelers could, in some circumstances, all wander in the same erroneous direction, leading me to a well-beaten dead end.
After this mixed review, I decided to trust my instinct. (Though I did keep the beaten path tip in the back of my mind.) It was high noon at that point, and the sunshine was fueling my determination to complete the maze. After crossing paths with the aforementioned couple debating their next move, I again told myself to trust my intuition and recited some positive self-affirmations: I was a strong, independent woman who didn’t need anyone’s help through this maze.
Maybe it was beginner’s luck, or the blind optimism guiding me, but I made it out just under the typical 25-minute window that McCall said it takes to complete the maze. Brionna: 1, maze: 0.
FOR THE LOVE OF TRADITION
My journey was nearing its end as I headed north to Cold Mountain Corn Maize in Haywood County. Admittedly, I was growing tired of my mission, and for a moment, it felt as if my outlook was matched by the property’s owner and farmer, Skipper Russell
“It’s a lot more hassle than what you’d think,” he told me about the process of creating a maze. “It’s a lot more expensive than what you’d think.”
Like Stepps, Russell outsources the job.
The upfront cost for the design is about $2,500. Meanwhile, the majority of the proceeds from ticket sales go to a charity of his choosing.
Russell began operating the annual feature as a fundraiser in 2007, after his wife, Frances, lost her life to cancer.
Etched into this year’s maze is a pair of hands bordered by the message “Sharing Hope … Changing Lives, Baptist Children’s Homes.” The organization's local chapter, Broyhill Baptist Children Homes, offers residential services and foster care to children in need.
Russell chose the agency after learning more about Haywood County’s foster care system from a friend who serves on the board of Broyhill Home.
“It just seemed like a good fit, and the Broyhill kids, they've been out here a couple of times,” Russell said. “They were very pleased with [the design] and liked it. They liked knowing that someone cared enough about them to actually be doing something for them.”
Despite his comments concerning the hassles of maintaining a maze, Russell clearly enjoys the positive impact it has
on local kids. Over the years, the annual tradition has also allowed him to witness some of his earliest visitors grow into adults who now bring their kids to the farm.
“It's just good, cheap, clean entertainment,” Russell said. “And I like the feeling of knowing I’m helping the community.”
Like McCall, Russell was unable to join me on the final leg of my tour. The very maze that opened this article. You remember — the one with the impending scare actors.
I entered the maze to the tune of R.E.M.’s “Losing My Religion” playing from the property’s ticket box. Hopefully, I wouldn’t be losing that much in this maze, I thought. Still, the song's line “Oh, life/is bigger/it’s bigger than you" kept echoing in my head. If you swap out “life” for “maze,” suddenly the song became the narration to my departure into the corn abyss.
Ten minutes in, there I stood, among rows of tousled shucks of corn, still trying to decipher whether the opening I was looking at was part of an intentional path or a rogue trail carved out by children running wild through the maze.
Despite my urgent want to escape, an answer to one of my earlier existential wonders — why would anyone willingly get lost for half an hour among rows of
the same vegetable — suddenly came to me in that moment. It arrived in the form of D’Onofrio’s previous words about tradition and Russell’s more recent comments about community.
I imagined the generations of kids who’d enjoyed the maze I was standing in. It was that sense of familiarity and continuity that brings us back to these labyrinths, year after year.
And in the wake of Helene, that’s more essential than ever to many in our region. “We’re almost 20 years into this, so this corn maze coming back represents somewhat of a tradition in Asheville coming back, not just our area … but all the communities around us,” D’Onofrio told me back at Eliada.
Once again, I trusted my intuition and marched ahead. At some point, the sound of Foreigner’s “Juke Box Hero” flowed through the stalks and got progressively louder. My pace quickened. The tune sharpened. The path opened. I had found my way out. The last corn maze of the day was behind me, not a scare actor in sight. For more information on maze hours and tickets visit:
• Eliada Homes: avl.mx/f5i
• Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard: avl.mx/f5k
• Cold Mountain Corn Maize: avl.mx/f5j X
Hometown hauntings
Old crimes and eerie tales fuel ghost tours in mountain towns
BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE
jmcguire@mountainx.com
Wanna hear a ghost story?
Hendersonville’s John Badger has a few, including tales of deadly fires, unsolved murders and 19th-century hangings. Meanwhile, Ginger Aumen captivates audiences with eerie accounts of supernatural activity in historic Waynesville buildings. And in Burnsville, Carew Henry shares chilling lore of murder and the unexplained — from ghostly footsteps to a haunted grocery cart.
In small towns across Western North Carolina, ghost tours have become a seasonal tradition, offering a mix of local history and Halloween-flavored storytelling. The tours draw on true-crime events, folklore and personal accounts, sometimes passed down through generations.
“I think rural Appalachia is a really great place for ghost stories,” says Henry, a WNC native who purchased Burnsville Ghost Tour Co. last year. “When I was a kid, I used to go to storytelling festivals in Tennessee, and so I really enjoy getting to tap back into that Appalachian storytelling and continue a tradition that has been around for centuries.”
DIGGING UP HISTORY
When Badger moved to Hendersonville in 2020, he thought it had all the makings of a great ghost tour — except the tour.
“I always enjoyed ghost tours in places like New Orleans and Savannah,” the Georgia native says. “So when I moved here, I thought, ‘Why doesn’t Hendersonville have one?’ Turns out it’s not because there aren’t stories. But you just have to dig them up.”
SPECTRAL STORIES: John Badger talks to a Haunts of Hendo tour group outside the Historic Courthouse in Hendersonville. “The historicity of it is very important to me — making it entertaining and spooky all at the same time,” he says. Photo by Justin McGuire
He means that figuratively — mostly. Tours by Badger’s Haunts of Hendo typically begin after dusk and cover roughly a mile of the city’s historic core. Along the way, Badger stops at seven haunted sites. There’s the Curb Market, site of the infamous 1872 public executions of the Adair brothers, Govan and Columbus (this is Badger’s favorite story). The Adairs were sentenced to death for the murder of the Weston family in Rutherford County.
Then there’s a former lunch counter, where some visitors swear they can still smell smoke when Badger recounts the fire that took a man’s life.
That man, Floyd A. Jackson Jr., died a hero. According to Badger’s research, Jackson was a firefighter who ran into what was then known as the Brunswick Lunch in 1950 to rescue anyone trapped inside. He cleared the downstairs, then ran upstairs into a residence just as the floor gave way beneath him. The
pool table that had been above crashed down and crushed him. Some say the smoke detectors still go off in that building without cause.
“One tour, we smelled smoke out of nowhere before I’d even gotten to that stop,” Badger insists. “Nobody could figure out where it was coming from.”
The Haunts of Hendo tours are seasonal — mostly October weekends, with the occasional Friday the 13th or full-moon special during the rest of the year. Badger, who uses his middle name, Sebastian, on the tour, carries a lantern and wears vintage-style clothing that gives him a vaguely Victorian look, enhancing the theatrical atmosphere without going full caricature.
The most asked-about story? The horrific 1966 killings of Vernon Shipman, Charles Glass and Louise Shumate — all found murdered near Lake Summit. Shipman owned Tempo Music Shop on Main Street, and Glass managed the
popular store. Shumate, a 61-year-old factory worker from Asheville, did not have direct ties to the business. The three were last seen driving with Shumate and an unknown man in a white-and-blue 1962 Ford Fairlane. Their deaths still raise questions nearly 60 years later.
“There’s a lot of speculation — and a lot of people on the tour have memories of it, or even personal connections,” Badger explains. “I always have to put some disclaimers before I tell that one.”
‘TIME TO SHINE‘
Waynesville joined the ranks of mountain towns with creepy crawls this year when Aumen introduced the History and Haunts Tour as a seasonal addition to her Waynesville Walking Tours, which began in the spring.
“I was always planning on doing the haunted section for Halloween, because it’s my time to shine a little,” says Aumen, whose family has lived in the area for generations. She describes her upbringing as “stereotypically Appalachian,” filled with ghost stories passed down by her grandparents.
A typical tour covers about a mile along Main Street and lasts around an hour. Aumen carries a lantern to add atmosphere but keeps her attire casual except for special occasions, such as a tour where all participants dressed as witches. She leads guests through a mix of folklore, true crime and unexplained phenomena. One of the most talked-about stops on the walk is an old building reportedly haunted by a former librarian and her cat. While the details remain a bit mysterious, Aumen explains, visitors often feel an unsettling presence there.
Another favorite story centers on an abandoned hardware store, shuttered since the 1980s. “It has bars over the doors now, but the window displays are just as they were when they closed up shop and never opened again,” she says. The basement holds a horse-drawn carriage (sans horses) that visitors can see by getting down low, adding to the atmosphere. More unnerving are repeated reports of objects and water being thrown inside the building, which Aumen has personally investigated but has yet to find a conventional explanation for. “We’ve had water thrown at us,” she insists. “There were no cars driving by. And you can’t access the roof. I’ve tried.”
The tour also touches on a dark moment from the town’s past — a shooting outside a Main Street building. The two-story neoclassical revival style building operated as Citizens Bank & Trust Co. from 1921-32. “During that time, a shooting occurred, and it’s said the ghost of the man shot haunts a nearby alley,” Aumen says. The story has become a crowd favorite.
“Humans have been telling ghost stories since the days of sitting around
fires,” Aumen continues. “The unknown is attractive to people. The idea of death … I think it makes us feel a little bit better about our own mortality.”
‘A MACABRE SENSE‘
In downtown Burnsville, the ghost-seeking crowds gather near Roland’s Bar at the NuWray Hotel. Henry, a scenic designer by day, arrives in dark clothing, heavy rings and a feathered hat, carrying a leather-bound “ghost tome” and a talent for storytelling.
Henry has been running the Burnsville Ghost Tour since buying it last year from its founder, Noah Styles
“I guess he saw that I had a knack for the performing arts as well as a little bit of a macabre sense,” Henry explains. “Eventually, he offered it to me, and I thought it would just be an enjoyable thing to do, as well as a good entrepreneurial experience.”
The tour, which lasts about 75 minutes, winds through downtown Burnsville, stopping at key locations. “I definitely like to tap into my character and try to make the story spooky,” Henry says. “Some people will react and be very shocked or afraid. But some stories have a humor element.”
The yarns range from grim 19th-century murders to modern-day hauntings. One crowd favorite centers on a deadly 1857 brawl at the Nu Wray, where a man bit another so severely that the victim died of infection.
Another popular stop involves renowned author Thomas Wolfe, who reportedly witnessed a 1937 shooting in downtown Burnsville and later returned to testify in court. “Some of his writings are believed to be based on that event,” Henry says.
More recent tales include the ghost of a young boy killed by a car and a haunted grocery cart that, according to legend, always returns to the same downtown basement no matter how many times it’s discarded.
While Henry received a script with the business, he’s been steadily expanding the collection of stories. “I’ve changed some to fit history more accurately, and I’ve added better punch lines and transitions,” he says.
Henry grew up in Burnsville, studied scenic design at the UNC School of the Arts and now works at Parkway Playhouse — another reportedly haunted site.
“I think my roots here give me an insight not everyone has,” he says. “Locals are more likely to share their stories with someone they know. I hear a new story about the Nu Wray Inn pretty much every weekend.”
The Burnsville tours, like those in Hendersonville, resumed in late October last year, just weeks after Tropical Storm Helene halted most business activity. “I think it was a good thing to give people something to do during a difficult time,” Henry says. “To have fun and take your mind off what was around us.”
This year, Henry hopes to draw even more visitors, especially at a time when the region needs people to be spending money locally.
“I feel like my business helps support other businesses,” Henry says. “They like to support me back, which is really nice.”
Ghoulish guides like Badger, Henry and Aumen say locals and tourists alike flock to their tours for entertainment and verifiable local history rather than for cheap scares.
“Going around an empty field and then telling ghost stories, that’s nice and all,” says Badger. “But if you’re not able to say that it happened right here, it doesn’t have the same amount of excitement.”
For more information or to book a tour, visit:
• Haunts of Hendo: avl.mx/prz1
• Burnsville Ghost Tours Co.: avl.mx/f4z
• History and Haunts Tour (Waynesville): avl.mx/f50 X
For a full list of community calendar guidelines, please visit mountainx.com/calendar. For questions about free listings, call 828-251-1333, opt. 4. For questions about paid calendar listings, please call 828-251-1333, opt. 1.
Online-only events
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More info, page 25
More info, page 26
WELLNESS
Community Yoga & Mindfulness
Free monthly event with Inspired Change Yoga that will lead you into a morning of breathwork, meditation and yoga.
WE (10/22), 10:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave
Gentle Tai Chi for Balance
This class works on improving our balance through exercises that help you to think with your feet while strengthening your balance muscles.
WE (10/22, 29), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109
Tai Chi Fan
The Fan forms include movements from Yang, Chen and Sun styles of Tai Chi.
WE (10/22), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Nia Dance
A sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts.
TH (10/23), 9:30am,
TU (10/28), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109
Thursday Evening Sound Baths
These sessions focus on nervous system regulation, energetic balance, and seasonal, lunar, and solar alignment.
TH (10/23), 7pm, Ritual
Skin and Wellness, 802 Fairview Rd building 3000 Ste 11
Teen Fitness
Group workouts are fun and challenging, with modifications available for different levels to maximize workouts safely.
FR (10/24), 6pm, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd
The Professor's Tai Chi
This class is a step up from the Beginners Class and is a great class for those who have studied Yang 37.
SA (10/25), 8:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Yoga & Coffee Practice on the outdoor deck, get the body and mind balanced, and then you can hang out after for some coffee, tea and pastries.
TU (10/28), 9:30am, Cooperative Coffee Shop, 210 Haywood Rd
Chair Aerobics Workout
A well rounded workout that helps reduce the risk of falling, alleviates joint pain, increases flexibility and range of motion.
TU (10/28), noon, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd
Baguazhang Level 1
Himalayan Sound Bath Meditation
Imagine the soothing tones of Himalayan singing bowls washing over you, calming your mind, and rejuvenating your spirit.
SA (10/25), 11am, Somatic Sounds, 157 S Lexington Ave B1
Yoga in the Park All-level friendly yoga classes based on Hatha & Vinyasa traditions. SA (10/25), SU (10/26), 11am, W Asheville Park, 198 Vermont Ave
Awaken: A Morning Ritual for the Senses Ease into your Sunday with a sensory journey designed to awaken presence, play, and possibility. SU (10/26), 10am, The Restoration Hotel Asheville, 68 Patton Ave
Sunday Morning Meditation Group
The Sunday Morning Meditation Group will gather for a combination of silent sitting and walking meditation. SU (10/26), 10am, The Lodge at Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain
Dr. Grant Gym Rats
A fun and active P.E. program specifically for homeschooled students that offers a variety of physical activities, games, and sports. MO (10/27), 11:45am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St
Chen Tai Chi
It is considered a very high level of Tai Chi. MO (10/27), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109
Doom Metal Yoga w/ Quantum Mystic
Where metal heads and misfits alike get to transform. Plan to sweat, stretch, growl and reset.
MO (10/27), 6:30pm, Eulogy, 10 Buxton Ave
Qigong for Health & Resilience
This class is an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to learn traditional Qigong exercises.
TU (10/28), 9am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109
It is considered a very advanced style of Kung Fu with its complex use of geometry and physics.
TU (10/28), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109
SUPPORT GROUPS
Virtual Listening Circle
This free virtual listening circle offers a judgement-free, trauma-informed spaced to gather, reset and reflect-together. Register at avl.mx/f29.
WE (10/22), noon, Online/
Disordered Eating/ Eating Disorders
This support group is peer-led and facilitated by licensed therapists & dietitians specializing in eating disorders. Regiser at avl.mx/es6.
WE (10/22), 6pm, Online
Reconnecting Through Hard Times
In this 1-hour virtual training you’ll gain an understanding of how hard times affect us all, and what to do or say for others when it matters most. Register at avl.mx/f0s.
TH (10/23, 30), noon, Online
Menopause Matters w/ Dr. Hilma Yu Dr. Yu leads a real talk on what hormone therapy can (and can’t) do, and how it might fit into your toolkit for thriving through menopause.
A group collective that gathers to talk about encounters with visual, tactile, sensational, or fringe experiences with life and the interaction of energy.
TH (10/23), 6pm, 12 Baskets Cafe, 610 Haywood Rd
Nicotine Anonymous
People share their experience, strength and hope to stop using nicotine. You don’t need to be stopped, just have a desire to attend.
STREET FESTIVAL & COMMUNITY CONCERT: On Saturday, Oct. 25, Heart of Brevard hosts the annual Halloweenfest in downtown Brevard, starting at 10 a.m. The event will feature free family-friendly activities, performances by Armchair Boogie and Shadowgrass, a costume contest, local vendors and more.
Photo courtesy of Heart of Brevard
Marijuana Anonymous
Whether you’re exploring sobriety, new to recovery, or have been on this path for a while, you are welcome here.
TH (10/23, 30), 6:30pm, American Legion Post #2, 851 Haywood Rd
Walk-In Mammography Clinics
Screening mammograms remain one of the most effective tools for detecting breast cancer at its earliest stages, when treatment is most successful.
SA (10/25), 8am, Haywood Regional Outpatient Care Center, 581 Leroy George Dr, Clyde
Magnetic Minds: Depression & Bipolar Support Group
A free weekly peer-led meeting for those living with depression, bipolar, and related mental health challenges. For more information contact (828) 367-7660.
SA (10/25), 2pm, First Congregational UCC of Asheville, 20 Oak St Atheist Meetup
This little Atheist group invites anyone who doesn’t believe in religions to come chat with like-minded people.
SU (10/26), 10am, Earth Fare, 66 Westgate Parkway
The Men’s Nest Make meaningful human connections to strengthen your social health, cultivate compassion, and learn to use your power to give and receive authentic support.
TU (10/28), 5:15pm, SeekHealing, 50 S. French Broad Ave, Ste 138
Abortion is Healthcare
A gathering for people pre or post abortion procedures. Facilitated by Sarah Eisenstein, everyone is welcome to gather in a spirit of mutual support and honoring.
TH (10/30), 9am, A Healing Portal, 55.5 Broadway
DANCE
Country Line Dancing w/Kristey
Featuring beginner and advanced classes that’s open to everyone. This event is hosted by Kristey.
WE (10/22, 29), 6pm, Eda’s Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville
Latin Night Wednesday w/DJ Mtn Vibez
A Latin dance social featuring salsa, bachata, merengue, cumbia, and reggaeton with dance lessons for all skill levels.
WE (10/22, 29), 8pm, One World Brewing West, 520 Haywood Rd
Open-Level Adult Contemporary Dance (Ages 16+)
Rediscover your love of movement in this drop-in Adult Contemporary class. Blend modern, lyrical, and jazz elements in a supportive, body-positive environment.
WE (10/22, 29), 5:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain
Open-Level Adult Ballet Class (Ages 16+)
Whether you’re a first-timer or returning to the barre, this class offers physical and emotional benefits through timeless technique.
WE (10/22, 29), 6:30pm,
Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain
We Line Dance Instructor Brenda Mills leads an all-inclusive exercise class using line dancing to get your body moving.
TH (10/23, 30), 6:15pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave
Monday Night Contra Dance
Contra dancing is a fun, social dance for everyone. Follow a lesson at 7 p.m. and then dance to a live band and caller at 7:30 p.m.
TU (10/28), 7:30pm, A-B Tech, 340 Victoria Rd
BMCA Dance: Kids in Motion 2
This class focuses on growing the foundations needed for many dance techniques, including contemporary, ballet, jazz, and lyrical.
TH (10/30), 3:45pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain
BMCA Dance: Contemporary 3 (Ages 13 - 16)
This class fuses contemporary, modern, lyrical, and jazz styles for diverse dance knowledge. Designed for experienced teens to refine artistry, technique, and performance.
TH (10/30), 6:45pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain
ART
North Carolina Glass
2025
A landmark exhibition that will spotlight the work of both established and emerging artists pushing the boundaries
of glass as a contemporary art form. Gallery open Tuesday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through Dec. 12
WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee
Creature Feature Arts Opening w/Monster
Wave
A limited time spooky art exhibit, featuring both local and internationally renowned artists that specialize in creating the creatures that lurk in the darkest corners of your imagination.
TH (10/23), 6pm, Third Room, 46 Wall St
Native America: In Translation This exhibition, curated by Apsáalooke artist Wendy Red Starr, features the work of seven Indigenous artists who explore themes of community, heritage, and the lasting impact of colonialism in North America. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through Nov. 3. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square
Julie Miles: MADEofTHIS
This exhibition is Julie’s reentry into art, a series that began as an homage to her grandparents’ manual labor as farmers and evolved into a celebration of the materials, memory, and identity. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 10am, and Sunday, noon. Exhibition runs through Oct. 26. Pink Dog Gallery, 348 Depot St
Lasting Legacies: Architecture in Asheville by Richard Sharp Smith, Albert Heath Carrier & Douglas D. Ellington
Lasting Legacies shines a spotlight on the contributions of two of the city’s most prominent architectural firms to Asheville’s built environment and artistic spirit in the early decades of the 20th century. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through Jan. 18, 2026. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square
Adult Studio: The Art of Papercutting Learn the magical art of paper cutting and create beautiful images and designs cut from a single piece of paper with an X-Acto knife. SA (10/25), 1pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square
Artful Living: The Spirit of the Craftsman Style Through clay, canvas, wood, and metal, Artful Living explores the soul of the Craftsman ethos—simplicity, utility, and harmony with the natural world. Gallery open Monday through Sunday, 10am. Exhibition through Dec. 31. Grovewood Gallery, 111 Grovewood Rd
Tintype Time Capsule. Marshall After the Flood
A powerful solo exhibition of wet plate collodion photography by Sarah Jones Decker that documents downtown Marshall after Helene with tintypes created out of the back of her Subaru Outback mobile darkroom. Gallery open Monday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through Oct. 30. Weizenblatt Art Gallery at MHU, 79 Cascade St, Mars Hill
Modern Bestiary:
Creatures from the Collection
This exhibition explores the artistic legacy of the medieval bestiary through a selection of animals and fantastic beasts from the Museum’s Collection.
Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through March 15, 2026.
Asheville Art Museum, 2
S Pack Square
Points in Space: Performance
This exhibition will feature visual and time-based artworks that echo BMC’s innovative spirit from 1933 to 1957. BMC was a nexus of avant-garde activity, fostering innovation through collaboration and experiential learning. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through Jan. 10, 2026.
Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St
COMMUNITY MUSIC
Beatles Hymn Sing w/ House of Mercy
A live band sing-a-long featuring music from the grand portfolio of The Beatles. This gathering welcomes all voices, ages, and lovers of music.
FR (10/24), 7pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd Ste 10
Asheville Symphony
Masterworks 2: Convergence
This unique program traces a journey from European romanticism to American avant-garde with Brahms’s mountain-inspired Second Symphony, Bartók’s ethereal Viola Concerto and more.
SA (10/25), 2pm and 8pm, First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St
Smoky Mountain Brass Band Concert
The Smoky Mountain Brass Band presents a program filled with stirring marches, lyrical melodies, and dazzling showpieces.
SU (10/26), 3pm, St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 10 North Liberty St
Steve Lapointe
Sunday live performance by Steve Lapointe in the Windgate Foundation Atrium.
SU (10/26), 4pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square
Magical Moments: The Music of Dave Bates
A special concert celebrating acclaimed local composer, playwright, and pianist Dave Bates.
SU (10/26), 3pm, OLLI/ Reuter Center, 300 Campus View Rd
Beer & Hymns
Beer & Hymns brings people together to raise a glass and a voice while raising funds
for organizations that change the world.
MO (10/27), 7pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain
Gather Hear Tour Piano & Rap Concert
This concert combines classical piano music with spoken word and rap, audience participation, plus an original composition by Chris. See p26
WE (10/29), 5:30pm, Burton Street Community Center, 134 Burton St
Echoes Across the Smokies: A Night of Strings, Stories & Songs
This soulful celebration brings the Smokies to life through the spirited tunes of the Junior Appalachian Musicians, stories of Cherokee storyteller Kathi Littlejohn, and the harmonies of the Cherokee Language Repertory Choir.
TH (10/30), 7:30pm, WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee
COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS
Asheville Music Makers:
Adult Class Classes will focus on composition techniques, music production, songwriting & song structure, live recording, music for multimedia, and all other aspects of making music.
TH (10/23), 7pm, Asheville Music School, 10 Ridgelawn Rd
Fly Fishing Series
This workshop focuses on knots and setting up (rigging) your rod in a way that positions you for success.
SA (10/25), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave
Plants as Medicine Workshop
Learn to make herbal medicine in this 2-day hands-on workshop. Explore plant healing, ecology basics, and leave with your own tincture & salve.
SA (10/25), 10am, Barnardsville, Barnardsville
Fly Fishing Series
This class focuses on casting accuracy, distance, and how to do unique casts based on different circumstances to help you fly fish in any region of the country.
TU (10/28), 5pm, Wrong Way Campground, 9 Midnight Dr
Simply Charmed: Drop In Workshop
After a quick demo by the instructor you will have time to complete your masterpiece.
WE (10/29), 11am, Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 Walnut St Unit A
Workshop & Lunch: Your Combination for Success
A special lunch & learn designed to help you discover what is
important when it comes to your success and how to unlock your potential in all of your endeavors.
WE (10/29), 11:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave
Access to Capital
Whether you’re a start-up or interested in growing your business, this workshop is here to guide you through the process to secure a business loan. Register at avl.mx/f5h.
TH (10/30), 11am, Online
LITERARY
Whispers From the Shadows: Scary Stories w/Connie Regan-Blake
An evening of ghostly legends and haunting tales influenced by stories of the British Isles and the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
TH (10/23), 7pm, Weaverville Community Center, 60 Lakeshore Dr, Weaverville
Thomas Crowe & Simone Lipscomb: New Natives, Becoming Indigenous in a Time of Crisis & Transition
Thomas Rain Crowe is a poet and activist, who draws heavily on his experiences living in the Southern Appalachians. Simone is a photographer who has published 3 books with Thomas Rain Crowe.
SA (10/25), 1pm, Blue Ridge Books, 428 Hazelwood Ave, Waynesville
The Nature of Pain: Roots, Recovery & Redemption Amid the Opioid Crisis w/Ronni Lundy
Mandi Fugate Sheffel will share her memoir, The Nature of Pain: Roots, Recovery, and Redemption amid the Opioid Crisis, in conversation with Ronni Lundy.
SA (10/25), 3pm, City Lights Bookstore, 3 E Jackson St, Sylva Poetry Slam
Share your work in a supportive community dedicated to celebrating poets and poetry.
SU (10/26), 7pm, Elevated Kava Lounge Downtown, 122 College St
Ghost Stories in the Goth Room
Bring your favorite scary stories or spooky poems and share with the group. Sign up starts at and 9pm the storytelling will start at 10pm.
SU (10/26), 9pm, 27 Club, 180 Patton Ave
Their End Is Our Beginning Organizer and author Brian Bean shares reflections on the connection between policing and capitalism as detailed within his new book Their End Is Our Beginning: Cops, Capitalism, and Abolition.
TU (10/28), 6pm, Firestorm Books, 1022 Haywood Rd
Hurricane Helene Poetry Reading Redhawk Publications will lead an evening of poetry readings from their new anthology Had I a Dove: Appalachian Poets On The Helene Flood. This anthology features over eighty poets from our region who contributed poems on their perspectives of Helene.
WE (10/29), 6pm, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain
Harm Reduction Reading Group
During this three part reading group we will discuss Shira Hassan's book, Saving Our Own Lives, and its applications locally.
WE (10/29), 6:30pm, Firestorm Books, 1022 Haywood Rd
Meter & Melody: Poetry Night Poetry open mic hosted by Dill every last Wednesday of the month.
WE (10/29), 7pm, Static Age Loft, 116 N Lexington Ave
Poetry Open Mic
This open mic welcomes any form of artistic expression from poetry to improv theatre to music to dance.
WE (10/29), 8:30pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave
Books & Birds w/J. Drew Lanham
Dr. J. Drew Lanham will be at the Jackson County Public Library for a reading and book signing. City Lights Bookstore will be there to sell books on-site before and after the event.
TH (10/30), 6pm, Jackson County Public Library, 310 Keener St, Sylva
Haunted Mountains: Scary Stories w/Sheila Kay Adams Madison County’s own NEA National Heritage fellow Sheila Kay Adams as she shares spooky tales from right here in the Appalachian Mountains.
TH (10/30), 7pm, Owen Theatre, 44 College St, Mars Hill
THEATER & FILM
A Life Reimagined: The George Masa Story
A new documentary from Emmy Award-winning director Paul Bonesteel in conjunction with Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy.
WE (10/22), 6:30pm, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., 100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River Halloween Movie Screenings for Kids & Adults
Free screenings of Halloween movies for the whole family all October long, plus popcorn, beer, campfires, and s’mores.
TH (10/23, 30), 6:30pm, Foothills Watershed, 655 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort
Community Improv Jam Misfit Improv group leads a jam where everybody gets a chance to play.
TH (10/23), 7pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St NEVERMORE: The Imaginary Life & Mysterious Death of Edgar Allan Poe
Nevermore is a hauntingly beautiful musical journey into the tortured soul of Edgar Allan Poe. A surreal theatrical experience that reimagines Poe’s tragic life from birth to death.
TH (10/23, 30), FR (10/24), SA (10/25), 7:30pm, SU (10/26), 2:30pm, BeBe Theatre, 20 Commerce St
Forks After Dark: Twilight Saga Viewing Party
Grab some snacks, get comfy, and watch the saga unfold with friends. Vampires, werewolves, and all the drama make for the perfect Friday night hangout.
FR (10/24), 5:30pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St
LIZZIE: The Lizzie Borden Musical
A young woman trapped in a world of oppression and secrets, and the chain of events that led to one of the most sensational murder cases in American history.
FR (10/24), SA (10/25), TH (10/30), 7:30pm, SU (10/26), 2pmHart Theatre, 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville
The Rocky Horror Show
This cult classic musical takes innocent Brad and Janet on a journey as they stumble upon the mysterious castle of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a mad scientist with a flair for the flamboyant.
FR (10/24), SA (10/25), SU (10/36), TH (10/30), 7:30pm, Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E Walnut St
Clue on Stage
Based on the iconic 1985 Paramount movie inspired by the classic Hasbro board game,
Clue is a hilarious farcemeets-murder mystery.
FR (10/24), 7:30pm, SA (10/25), SU (10/26), 3pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 South Washington St, Hendersonville
An Evening w/The Rocky Horror Picture Show
See a 50th anniversary screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show with a live shadow case featuring Unexpected Pleasures.
SA (10/25), 7pm, Asheville Yards, 75 Coxe Ave
Qui Nguyen: She Kills Monsters
A heartfelt, humorous, and fight-heavy story about Agnes, who discovers her late sister Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons campaign. As she navigates Tilly’s fantasy world, Agnes uncovers hidden truths about her sister’s life, grief, and their bond.
FR (10/24), SA (10/25), 7:30pm, Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre, 92 Gay St
We Take Care of Us: Mutual Aid & the Rojava Revolution Asheville for Justice will be screening Berxwedan Jiyaneand and I Am the Revolution, two films about Rojava, and then hosting a virtual Q&A
SU (10/26), noon, Firestorm Books, 1022 Haywood Rd
Midnight Mass
Presents: Rocky Horror Burlesque Show
Give yourself over to pleasure and join your host, Dahmit Janet, for a dynamite burlesque take on this absolute classic.
SU (10/26), 7pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd Ste 10
Silent Movie Night: Metropolis
Local pianist Andrew J. Fletcher will be performing a live musical score to 1927 German expressionist science-fiction silent film directed by Fritz Lang and written by Thea von Harbou.
SU (10/26), WE (10/29), 8pm, Crow & Quill, 106 N Lexington Ave
Weekday Movie Matinee
Take a midday break and unwind with classic public-domain films in the cozy, living-room style basement of the Local Collective.
WE (10/29), noon, The Local Collective, 52 S Main St, Weaverville
The Witch Trials
A night of immersive theatre, comedy and talented performers that help you enter a world of hysteria, humor and haunting truths of the Salem Witch Trials.
TH (10/30), 8:30pm, 27 Club, 180 Patton Ave
MEETINGS & PROGRAMS
IBN Biz Lunch: West Asheville
All are invited to attend and promote their business, products, and services, and meet new referral contacts.
WE (10/22), noon, Yao, 153 Smoky Park Hwy
RSAA's Lunch & Learn Series
This is RSAA’s work in action: pairing creative education with community repair so our stories inform programs, guide strategy, and strengthen a public record of what healing looks and feels like.
WE (10/22), 12:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave
Southside Cyber Wednesday Dive into the exciting world of e-sports and gaming with friends and neighbors with two powerful PlayStation 5 consoles.
WE (10/22), 6pm, Dr
Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St
NSA-WNC Meeting Professional keynote speakers, coaches, trainers, facilitators, and consultants who cover a broad range of topics, skills, & knowledge.
IBN Biz Lunch: Woodfin All are invited to attend and promote their business, products, and services, and meet new referral contacts.
TH (10/23), noon, The Village Porch, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 113 Visit Haywood Tourism Development Authority: Helps to Grow Your Business
The Visit Haywood Tourism Development Authority is updating their marketing outreach and they want to support your business in market promotions
TH (10/23), 5:30pm, Regional High Technology Center, 112 Industrial Park Dr, Waynesville Nielsen Big Idea Lecture: Dr Chenjerai Kumanyika Dr. Kumanyika will share insights from his podcasting career and research, tracing the legacies of policing in New York City while also reflecting on the power of narrative storytelling to shift public understanding.
TH (10/23), 6pm, Warren Wilson College, 701 Warren Wilson Rd, Swannanoa Craft & Connect Get crafty and learn new skills while connecting with friends and neigh-
bors in your Asheville community.
TH (10/23), 7pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St
IBN Breakfast Club: West Asheville
All are invited to attend and promote their business, products, and services, and meet new referral contacts.
See Jane Crush: A Monthly Tasting Series w/Amy Bess Cook
Amy Bess Cook hosts a special tasting that spotlights women, nonbinary, and underrepresented makers.
FR (10/24), 5:30pm, Botanist & Barrel Tasting Bar + Bottle Shop, 32 Broadway St Ste 110 Tarot w/Cats
This 1-hour workshop will include a brief history of the tarot, and how to incorporate a one- and three-card pull for daily guidance.
FR (10/24), 5:30pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd Appalachian Healing Collective
Practice asking for what you want and need and trusting that the collective efforts will heal/launch you into an never-before-felt-experience of group focus.
In these sound healing sessions, you will be guided through a peaceful meditation using frosted crystal quartz bowls, allowing their soothing vibrations to support your well-being.
FR (10/24), 6:30pm, The Well, 3 Louisiana Ave
Swannanoa Valley Museum Haunted History Tour
Traveling some of Black Mountain’s most storied streets, visitors will learn about the humorous, haunting and harrowing history of the Swannanoa Valley while
being visited by some of its most famous spirits.
FR (10/24), 7pm, Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, 223 West State St, Black Mountain
Small Wonders in Fall: A Moss & Lichen Walk w/Sue Studlar
Botanist Sue Studlar leads an exploration of small wonders: the beautiful, hidden world of bryophytes and lichens. Be prepared for the weather and bring a hand lens.
SA (10/25), 2pm, Asheville Botanical Garden, 151 WT Weaver Blvd. Swannanoa Valley Museum's Downtown Black Mountain Walking Tour
Learn the history of Black Mountain and the Swannanoa Valley on this walking tour.
SA (10/25), 2pm, Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, 223 West State St, Black Mountain
Coloring w/Cats
Take 50 minutes for yourself and cuddle with the panthers, meet other cat-lovers, and color a beautiful picture of a cat from our adult coloring books.
SU (10/26), 2pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd
Monday Marketing Meetup
A collaborative marketing meetup where entrepreneurs and creatives share what they're working on, exchange ideas, and support each other's next steps.
MO (10/27), 1pm, The Local Collective, 52 S Main St, Weaverville Sip & Carve
Get crafty, meet friends, and take home a unique Halloween decoration. Bring your own pumpkin or use one of ours.
MO (10/27), 2:30pm, Grove St Community Center, 36 Grove St
Harvesting Opportunities: Navigating Agritourism for Your Farm Business
An introduction of agritourism and assessing if it is right for your farm business.
MO (10/27), 5pm, McDowell Technical Community College Small Business Center, 634 College Dr, Marion Tech Time w/Becca Becca guides you through the ever-changing digital world, one topic at a time to explore the latest technology and apps.
TU (10/28), 3pm, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd
Docent Led Tours
See beautiful and interesting plants, delicious vegetables, native plants for beauty and pollinator interest.
WE (10/29), 10am, Buncombe County Cooperative Extension Center, 49 Mount Carmel Rd, Ste 102
Is It Cake: Adult Edition Whisk, mix, and bake your way to glory in an exciting adult bake-off to crown Asheville’s ultimate baking champion.
WE (10/29), 5:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave
Southside Cyber Wednesday
Dive into the exciting world of e-sports and gaming with two powerful PlayStation 5 consoles.
WE (10/29), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St
Mindful Stretching
Reconnect with your body through this program designed to gently release tension, improve flexibility, and calm the nervous system through guided sessions.
WE (10/29), 6:15pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave
Resist, Connect & Rebuild: Bimonthly Gathering
In addition to reports from our teams on recent actions and upcoming opportunities, we’ll present info on three important current and upcoming programs.
WE (10/22, 29), 10am, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd
Asheville Board Game Club Meet-Up
Featuring a wide variety of tabletop games—from light party games to deep strategy favorites.
WE (10/22, 29), 5:30pm, Well Played, 162 Coxe Ave, Ste 101
Neighborhood Strollers Walking Club
Socialize and get moving on the paved outdoor loop around the park at Crump Shiloh Center.
TH (10/23, 30), 6pm, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd
Bid Whist
Make bids, call trumps, and win the tricks every Saturday with your community.
SA (10/25), 1pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St
Spooky Spikes Volleyball
Wear your costume for open play volleyball where all players are entered into a spooky raffle.
SA (10/25), 5pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave
Dungeons & Drafts
A 3-4 hour campaign with games for players of all experience levels.
SU (10/26), 1pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd Ste 10
Weekly Sunday Scrabble!
If you like Wordle, Boggle, Words with Friends or Scrabble online, this club may be a good fit for you.
SU (10/26), 1:30pm, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Afternoon Bocce League
Players of all ages can compete with friends and family to roll, learn, and claim victory in this new league.
MO (10/27), 2pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave
Ping Pong Tournament
wooden discs across a circular board to score points.
TU (10/28), 6pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200
Music Bingo w/Spencer Bring your friends to Taproom Tuesdays featuring Music Bingo with Spencer and rotating food trucks.
TU (10/28), 6pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200
Murder Mystery Party: Jazz Age Jeopardy Dress in your character’s costume or or join the audience of investigators. Win awards for best costume, best actors, and best sleuths.
WE (10/29), 4pm, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd
KID-FRIENDLY PROGRAMS
Family Story Time
A fun and interactive story time designed for children ages 18 months to 3 years.
WE (10/22, 29), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain Tiny Tykes Play Dates Open play for toddlers to explore bikes, balls, inflatables, and climbing structures.
WE (10/22, 29), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave
Little Monkeys
A mix of fun games and activities that focus on building toddlers’ motor skills by balancing climbing and playing both on and off the wall.
TH (10/23, 30), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave
Black Cat Tales: Story Time w/Cats
Foster a love of reading in your kiddos while also socializing the cats in the lounge.
TH (10/23), 4pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd
Kids & Teens Xing Yi
Learn complete systems of Xing Yi, Baguazhang, and Taiji, including weapons and sparring as optional classes.
learning while having fun.
FR (10/24), 10am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St
Coloring w/Cats: Kiddie Edition
An artistic session with coloring books and markers for children ages 13 and under to relax by coloring as they pet cats to reduce stress and anxiety.
SA (10/25), 1pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd
School’s Out Park Days
School’s out or early dismissal? Head to your local park for seasonal arts and craft activities.
MO (10/27), 1pm, Murphy-Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd
APR Afterschool
Discovery Den
Featuring a mix of cooking, pottery, music, digital arts, STEM, and more for kids to explore their creativity, learn new skills, and make friends.
MO (10/27), 2:30pm, Grove St Community Center, 36 Grove St
LOCAL MARKETS
Weaverville Tailgate Market
This market features a selection of fresh, locally grown produce, grass fed beef, pork, chicken, eggs, cheese, baked goods, artisan bread, eclectic handmade goodies, garden and landscaping plants. Open year-round.
WE (10/22, 29), 3pm, 60 Lake Shore Dr Weaverville
Leicester Farmers Market
A community-led farmers market local produce, cheese, meats, honey, strawberries, asparagus, rhubarb, ramps, a variety of plants and more. Every Wednesday through October.
WE (10/22, 29), 3pm, Leicester Community Center, 2979 New Leicester Hwy, Leicester RAD Farmers Market
to pickles, baked goods to body care, and even educational resources. Every Thursday through October 31.
TH (10/23), 3:30pm, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler
East Asheville Tailgate Market
Featuring over 25 vendors selling meat, seafood, produce, flowers, bread, eggs, baked goods, fruit, herbs, sweet treats, tamales, and more. Every Friday through Nov. 21.
FR (10/24), 3pm, Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Rd
Mills River Farm Market
This market offers local food, live music, kids' activities, cooking demos, and a welcoming community. Browse fresh produce and pasture-raised meats to homemade breads, fresh flowers, and artisan goods.
SA (10/25), 8am, Mills River Elementary School, 94 Schoolhouse Rd, Mills River
North Asheville Tailgate Market
Browse from over 70 vendors that will be offering sustainably produced produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, breads, honey, plants, prepared foods, crafts and more.
SA (10/25), 8am, 275 Edgewood Rd
Asheville City Market
A producer-only market featuring local food products, including fresh produce, meat, cheese, bread, pastries, and other artisan products. Every Saturday through December.
SA (10/25), 9am, 52 N Market St
Black Mountain Tailgate Market
A seasonal community event featuring organic and sustainably grown produce, plants, cut flowers, herbs, local raised meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheeses, eggs and locally handcrafted items. Every Saturday through Nov. 22.
WNC Farmers Market
This year-round market features locally grown produce, fruits and vegetables, mountain crafts, plants, shops, arts and crafts, sourwood honey, and other farm fresh items. Open daily, 8am.
570 Brevard Rd Green Man Makers Mart
This makers mart features local artists. SU (10/26), noon, Green Man Brewery, 27 Buxton Ave
Carolina Ground: October Pop-Up
This pop-up market will feature an array of baked goods, breads, pastries, pies, flours, cornmeal, grits, cheese, eggs and more. See p25
This vibrant outdoor market features a curated selection of local makers and artisans. Browse a delightful array of one-of-a-kind textiles, handcrafted jewelry, beautiful pottery, and more.
SU (10/26), 1pm, The Meadow at Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200 West Asheville Tailgate Market
This market features an array of goods including fruits, vegetables, baked goods, bread, eggs, cheese, plants, specialty items, locally made art and crafts and more. Every Tuesday through November.
TU (10/28), 3:30pm, 718 Haywood Rd
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Paws & Pumpkins
This family and pet-friendly fall festival will feature a dog costume contest, trick-or-treating and a full schedule of other events.
TH (10/23), 3pm, Biltmore Park Town Square, Town Square Blvd
A Night of Intrigue Step into the shoes of a master detective for a collaborative challenge where you and your fellow investigators pore over authentic clues, documents, and evidence to unravel a decades-old mystery.
TH (10/30), 6:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave
GAMES & CLUBS
Neighborhood Strollers
Walking Club
Head to local neighborhoods to connect with each other while walking and enjoying a change
Come by and shoot your shot against some of the best ping pong players in town. Free to enter and $50 bar tab to the winner.
MO (10/27), 6pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave
Pool Night
Pool night, every Monday night with a $5 buy in. Must be signed up by 7 p.m.
MO (10/27), 6:30pm, Eda’s Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville
AVL Crokinole Club
A dexterity-based board game popular in Canada and the United States, involving players flicking
TH (10/23, 30), MO (10/27), TU (10/28), 4pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109
Kooky Spooky Toddler Day
The gym turns into a fun Halloween town with inflatables, toys, activity stations, and refreshments. Dress up and join the costume parade.
FR (10/24), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave
Tiny Tykes
Offering a variety of activities during playtime for toddlers to explore different aspects of
Asheville’s only yearround weekly market, featuring 30+ vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, handcrafted items, beverages, grab-and-go meals, and more. EBT and SNAP accepted.
WE (10/22, 29), 3pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 21 Craven St Biltmore Park Farmers Market
This market features fresh seasonal produce, delicious homemade pastries, premium meats and seafood, beautiful vibrant flowers, and more.
TH (10/23), 3pm, Biltmore Park Town Square, Town Square Blvd. Enka-Candler Farmer's Market
A grand selection of local foods and crafts, everything from produce
SA (10/25), 9am, 130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain
Mars Hill Farmers & Artisans Market
A producer-only tailgate market located on the campus of Mars Hill University on College Street. Offering fresh local produce, herbs, cheeses, meats, eggs, baked goods, honey, body care and more. Every Saturday through Oct. 26.
SA (10/25), 10am, College St, Mars Hill
Witching Hour: A Marketplace of Ritual & Wonder
Celebrate the Season of the Witch with a vendor market, seasonal brews, oracle readings, and more.
SA (10/25), noon, One World Brewing West, 520 Haywood Rd
The 13th Annual Haunted Trail
An interactive outdoor Haunted Trail for all ages that features classic spooky themes and dozens of local community partners.
TH (10/23), FRI (10/24), SA (10/25), SU (10/26), 6pm, Adventure Center of Asheville, 85 Expo Dr Justice Forum
This year features Dr Imani Perry as the Forum speaker who shares a powerful voice to questions of race, justice, culture, and democracy in America.
TH (10/23), 7pm, Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, 87 Haywood St
Caffé REL Grand Opening
Caffé REL celebrates its grand opening in Hendersonville, expanding
the legacy of its beloved Franklin restaurant.
FR (10/24), 1pm, Caffé REL, 425 N Main St, Hendersonville Gem, Jam & Fam Market w/Jerry's Dead
A vibrant, family-friendly celebration where music, art, and community come together. This year’s festival features Jerry's Dead, bringing timeless songs to life with the spirit of togetherness and joy.
FR (10/24), 4pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 21 Craven St
Banksy the Pug Halloween Photoshoot
3rd annual Halloween photo-shoot benefiting Asheville Humane Society. Enjoy complimentary professional photos of your dog, swag bags and Halloween-themed dog treats.
FR (10/24), 5pm, Hotel Arras, 7 Patton Ave Asheville Boos & Booze Halloween Bar Crawl
Dare to crawl through 6+ haunted hotspots in Downtown Asheville as you summon spirits, dance with the undead, and compete for cash in your creepiest costume contest
SA (10/25), 6:30am, Downtown Asheville Bars, Downtown Asheville Bars
Art by the Tracks
Art by the Tracks features over 50 artists from the local region. For the past 27 years, the Old Depot Association holds this Art and Craft fair to raise money for the Old Depot Association.
SA (10/25), 10am, Black Mountain Old Depot, 207 Sutton Ave, Black Mountain
Fall Fiber Fair
Perfect opportunity to see local fiber artists specializing in quilted and sewn items along with other handmade items in fiber and paper such as greeting cards and rope bowls.
SA (10/25), 10am, Beginnings Quilt Shop, 1038C Greenville Hwy, Hendersonville
Heart of Brevard
Halloweenfest
This beloved annual event features free, family-friendly activities, live music, costume contests, local vendors, and more, all set against the scenic backdrop of Transylvania County.
SA (10/25), 10am, Downtown Brevard, E Main St, Brevard
Trick or Trail 5k & 1 Mile
This race is back in the heart of Hendersonville and it's bringing some spirited fun—with an awesome new race shirt and shiny finisher medal for every participant.
SA (10/25), 10am, Nelon's Feed, 519 Maple St, Hendersonville
Surreal Sirkus Arts Festival
This special event features a unique blend of experimental theater, live music, art vendors, and circus arts that have become a staple of the city’s creative community.
SA (10/25), noon, Pack Square Park, 80 Court Plaza
1st Annual Grip It & Sip It Disc Golf Tournament
Each winner will score gift cards from incredible sponsors: The Whale, The Orange Peel, Another Round, and The Chemist.
SA (10/25), 1pm, Asheville Municipal Golf Course, 226 Fairway Dr
The RAD Brew Co. Fall Festival
This fall festival features local art and handmade goods, permanent jewelry, face painting, a pumpkin patch, tarot readers and more.
SA (10/25), 1pm, The River Arts District Brewing Co., 13 Mystery St
Pumpkin Pedaller Roll into fall with us as we dress in costume, bike around town, play in the bike park, raise money for safer streets, and celebrate all that we love about riding our city.
SA (10/25), 1:30pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 21 Craven St
North Carolina Cider Month
This is the perfect opportunity to taste some of the best ciders North Carolina has to offer.
SA (10/25), 2pm, Urban Orchard, 24 Buxton Ave
23rd Annual Black Mountain Pet Parade & Costume Contest
This beloved tradition is free and open to all well-behaved people and pets. Dress up, join the parade, and show off your spooky style.
SA (10/25), 3pm, Black Mountain Town Square, Black Mountain
BMCA's 25th Anniversary Celebration
BMCA transforms into the ultimate party spot with a Dance Through the Decades party spun by DJ Jamie Munn, a sundae bar, and a specialty drinks to toast the occasion.
SA (10/25), 7pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain
Psychic & Holistic Arts Expo
Asheville’s own mind, body and spirit expo returns and will feature 50+ readers, practitioners, vendors as well as raffles, workshops and presentations.
SA (10/25), SU (10/26), 10am, A-B Tech Mission Health Conference Center, 16 Fernihurst Dr 8th Annual Beaverdam
Studio Tour
Twenty-five remarkable artists and craftspeo ple—including 17 from the Beaverdam Valley and 8 guest artists— are opening their studios to the public.
SU (10/26), 10am, Beaverdam Studio Tour, Beaverdam Rd
Fall Festivities
Celebrate the fall season with hayrides, pumpkins, fresh-pressed apple cider, and the unbeat able scenic landscape. SU (10/26), 11am, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, 57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview
Annual Boo Bash
The family-friendly celebration will transform the center into a festive Halloween destination filled with music, magic and more. Boo Bash festivities include center-wide trick-or-treating, lively entertainment including DJs, inflatable games, strolling magicians and more.
SU (10/26), 1pm, Tanger Outlets Asheville, 800 Brevard Rd
Howl-O-Ween
A spooktacular evening with Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue’s HowlO-Ween dog-friendly costume party. Come for cocktails, costumes, music and community.
SU (10/26), 4pm, Aloft Asheville Downtown, 51 Biltmore Ave
The 16th Annual Queer Girls Literary Reading
A celebration of Asheville’s queer literary women—including local and regional writers of varying ages, identities, races, and abilities. This year’s lineup includes local and regional writers, UNCA students, and community members.
SU (10/26), 6pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Brick by Brick: Helping
Butoh Dance Festival: Frequency in Motion
An audiovisual performance featuring Butoh dancers. Dancers will be accompanied by live sounds, field recordings, and objects by Chris H.Lynn and Hiroko Komiya. See p20-21
TH (10/30), 7:30am, Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St
Trunk-or-Treat
Meet your local businesses and trick or treat in the MRB parking lot while DJ Jason plays some music.
TH (10/30), 5pm, Mills River Brewing Co., 336 Banner Farm Rd, Mills River
AMOS After Hours: Creature Feature
Craft your own urban legend with Asheville's best story crafters. Explore cryptozoology, animal science, and paleontology to see what myths might have some real teeth to them.
TH (10/30), 6pm, Asheville Museum of Science, 43 Patton Ave
Halloween Masquerade Party
An exclusive costume party featuring appetizers, late-night snacks, and a live DJ spinning your favorite 80s and 90s vinyl. Compete in
prior to showing up. Appointments and additional services can be scheduled at avl.mx/dlq.
TH (10/23), 9am, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd, Howl-o-Ween Pet
Photos: A Benefit for Asheville Humane Society
Creep it real and bring your furry little monster for a fang-tastic Halloween-themed portrait session. All of the profits will go to Asheville Humane Society.
A powerful evening of music, art, and community solidarity featuring incredible NC musicians. Proceeds will go to supporting Southern Equality Studios. FR (10/24), 7pm, Eulogy, 10 Buxton Ave
Blackhawk Bolt 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run
This fun community event and fundraiser offers participants a morning of beautiful views and community spirit. Prizes will be awarded to different age groups. It will benefit the NBHS PTSO. SA (10/25), 10am, N Buncombe High School, 890 Clarks Chapel Rd,
and supporting artist recovery after Hurricane Helene.
SA (10/25), 7pm, One World Brewing West, 520 Haywood Rd
The Music of John Denver by Tom Donnelly, Robin Bullock & Friends: A benefit for MemoryCare of Asheville
Tom Donnelly, Robin Bullock, and friends will be covering the music of the legendary John Denver. This is a benefit to support MemoryCare of Asheville.
SA (10/25), 7:30pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain
HalloWolfbat 2025
A unique music show and visual conjuring that is a Halloween-centric marriage of music and art. This year's line-up features EyeHateGod, Bat and Black Tusk. Proceeds benefit Foundation Skatepark.
SA (10/25), 8pm, The Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave
Cajun Cook-Off 2025
animals and help build a memorial barn honoring co-founder Barb Bellows.
SU (10/26), 2pm, Animal Haven of Asheville, 65 Lower Grassy Branch Rd
JAM Reunion Fundraiser for BMCA
A JAM Reunion Concert will feature special performances from current and former JAM instructors, former, students, and friends from the community.
SU (10/26), 2pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain
Walk for Your Neighbor
Featuring a walk and block party with live music, food and drinks. Registration for the walk is by donation only.
SU (10/26), 2pm, First Baptist Church of Swannanoa, 503 Park St, Swannanoa
Harmonies For Homes: A Benefit for Homeward Bound of WNC
Appfest & Appalachia Day w/The Saylor Brothers: A Benefit for Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy
Celebrate all Appalachia has to offer with live music from the Saylor Brothers and a Makers Market hosted by the Appalachian Artist Collective. $1 per pour of all beers sold will benefit Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy. 2pm, Wicked Weed Brewing, 91
Magenta Sunshine Presents: A Celestial Celebration of Love Dress like it’s a cosmic disco on the moon. Partial proceeds will benefit a local non profit
Attendees will be able to sample popular Cajun dishes and new twists on the cuisine, including some vegan and gluten free options. The Cajun Cook-off is a fundraiser with proceeds benefiting the 18th Asheville Mardi Gras Parade. See p25 SU (10/26), 2pm, The Funkatorium, 147 Coxe Ave
Tree Giveaway
The City of Hendersonville, in partnership with the City’s Tree Board, is hosting a Tree Giveaway to help replenish the community’s tree canopy following the losses from Hurricane Helene.
SU (10/26), noon, City of Hendersonville Operations Center, 305 Williams St, Hendersonville
Animal Haven of Asheville Annual Fall Fundraiser
Enjoy a full vegan buffet, drinks, live music by Southern Style Band, a silent auction, and interactive animal stations. All proceeds support our
This family-friendly fundraiser brings together some of the region’s most dynamic bands, including Coconut Cake, Las Montañitas, Rahm Squad, Eleanor & Friends Electric Band and more. See p26
SU (10/26), 3pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave
Cat Trivia: A Fundraiser for Binx's Home for Black Cats
Assemble your team and come out to cat trivia night that will benefit Binx's Home for Black Cats. It will feature a variety of feline-centric trivia questions to test your knowledge for a chance to win prizes.
SU (10/26), 4pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd Volunteer Workday w/Forest Restoration Alliance Volunteers will be combating hemlock woolly adelgid by supporting the research of the FRA at their greenhouse and nursery.
TU (10/28), 10am, Mountain Research Station, 265 Test Farm Rd, Waynesville
Dance of darkness
Asheville Butoh Festival embraces elements of advocacy, post-Helene healing
BY GINA SMITH
gsmith@mountainx.com
A wisp-thin figure wearing only a loincloth lurches across a darkened stage, as if blown by the wind in slow motion. The man’s muscled limbs jerk and flow hypnotically against the backdrop of black emptiness, his face contorting into an expression of horror, then despair. The sole acoustic accompaniment: a swarm of fluttering cymbals and thudding drumbeats.
It’s disturbing. It’s nerve-racking. It’s also nuanced, evocative and somberly beautiful. It’s the avant-garde dance form butoh.
The scene, performed by Japanese butoh master Atsushi Takenouchi, is from the production Hana, which makes its Western North Carolina debut during the Asheville Butoh Festival, Thursday, Oct. 30-Sunday, Nov. 2.
Now in its 15th season, the festival, hosted by the Asheville Butoh Collective, continues its tradition of showcasing butoh for local audiences. With this year’s move to larger venues, the performances and workshops are aimed at reaffirming the importance of theater education and helping Western North Carolina heal from the trauma of Tropical Storm Helene.
‘SCARY DANCERS’
Butoh emerged in Japan in the late 1950s as a reaction to the Westernizing influences of the U.S. occupation after World War II, according to Butoh: A Bibliography of Japanese Avant-garde Dance by Shea A. Taylor. With the
dance form’s bizarre and ghastly imagery and atmosphere, it was originally known as “ankoku-butoh,” which means “dance of darkness.”
Asheville Butoh Festival artistic director Julie Becton Gillum, a longtime modern dance professional, choreographer and Warren Wilson College instructor, wandered into that strange and fascinating world in the late 1990s. Her launchpad was a butoh performance based on the life and writings of Edgar Allan Poe at the 1997 American Dance Festival in New York City.
“My audience has often said, ‘You know, Julie, you’re kind of scary when you dance, and your choreography is ugly,’” Becton Gillum says, laughing, as she speaks of her unique dance style. “When I saw butoh, I went, ‘Oh, wow, scary dancers, ugly choreography. That’s for me. I belong in this genre.’”
She went on to establish the teaching, performance and research company Legacy Butoh in 2000. After traveling to Japan to study the dance form on a N.C. Choreographic Fellowship in 2009, Becton Gillum launched the Asheville Butoh Collective, which produces the Asheville Butoh Festival. Other members of the collective are Jenni Cockrell, Constance Humphries (now based in the United Kingdom), Sara Baird and newest addition Rebecca Schoenecker.
A BIGGER STAGE
In years past, the Asheville Butoh Festival’s home has been Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre’s blackbox venue, the BeBe Theatre. But this year, with the BeBe booked by another
BODY LANGUAGE: Japanese butoh master Atsushi Takenouchi, pictured, and composer Hiroko Komiya are the featured performers at the upcoming Asheville Butoh Festival. Photo by Raul Bartolome
theater company for Halloween weekend, the Asheville Butoh Festival is venturing into larger spaces.
The festival’s first event, Frequency in Motion, is an audiovisual butoh performance featuring live and recorded sounds from Takenouchi’s wife, the composer Hiroko Komiya, with Super 8 and digital film by American artist Chris Lynn and a dance performance by Takenouchi, Becton Gillum, Cockrell and Humphries. It will take place at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, at Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center downtown.
Subsequent events will happen on the UNC Asheville campus. Two days of butoh workshops taught by Takenouchi — 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 1-2 — will be held in UNCA’s Sherrill Center dance studio.
Takenouchi’s solo performance of Hana at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, and Life of Flower, a performance by workshop participants directed by Takenouchi at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2, will both be staged in UNCA’s arena-style Carol Belk Theatre.
Becton Gillum says that though the festival will return to the 65-seat BeBe
Theatre next year, moving two of this year’s performances to the 199-seat Carol Belk Theatre offers an opportunity to see what kind of audience butoh can attract in Asheville.
“[Carol Belk Theatre] is 3D, it’s circular, in the round, and I believe that dance should be performed like this. It gives it a sort of ceremonial quality,” says Becton Gillum. “It’s going to be exciting to see if we can really sell out this festival. … You know, I’m just trying to keep pushing the edge of the envelope on how much butoh Asheville can sustain.”
EDGY AND APPEALING
Whether participating in a workshop with Takenouchi or watching one of the performances, festival attendees can expect an experience that’s both warm and edgy, says Becton Gillum.
“He’s almost naked when he dances, so you're confronted with his body — his aging body — which is in tremendous physical shape,” she explains. “You know he's giving it his all, and somehow you want to love him. He's confrontational yet adorable.”
Likewise, “provocative yet embraceable” is how she describes Takenouchi’s collaboration with Komiya. “They're a beautiful duo,” she says. “She’s playing using her voice. She’s using electronics. She’s using bones and shells and water.”
The workshops promise to be challenging but will offer a rare opportunity for locals. “He does beautiful pieces like this using people with relatively little experience, giving them something amazing to do and making them look good,” she says.
Takenouchi, who is known for dancing in extreme landscapes, such as on mountain cliffs and at Fukushima after the nuclear disaster, also seeks to provide a ceremonial healing experience through butoh, Becton Gillum points out. She had originally hoped to stage his Asheville performances in areas impacted by Helene but couldn’t work out the logistics.
“I’ve shared with him that I want this to be a healing requiem for the Asheville community after Helene and for the participants to know that and focus on that during the process,” she says.
Becton Gillum also hopes that hosting the festival at UNCA will underscore the communitywide impact of the school’s 2024 decision to eliminate its theater department.
“All art, to me, has a therapeutic component — for the people who do it and the people who witness it,” she continues. “I feel like we’re losing a lot of that right now in our culture.”
For the Asheville Butoh Festival’s full schedule and to buy tickets, visit avl.mx/f5a. X
Pumpkin party
BY ASHLEY ENGLISH
What would October be without pumpkins? Certainly not as colorful, and definitely not as festive. But why should jack-o’-lanterns alone get all the attention?
Whether you’re hosting a terrifyingly fun Halloween party (the holiday is on a Friday this year, after all), or your idea of a good time come Oct. 31 involves sweat pants, a voluminous hoodie, your couch and a viewing of Practical Magic, try incorporating pumpkin into your menu.
My pumpkin spice latte gives the chain-store version a frighteningly delicious run for the money (and is far less saccharine sweet yet pumpkin forward, to boot). And my recipe for pumpkin and sage lasagna is a surefire seasonal pleaser, whether for a crowd or a party of one.
Canned pumpkin works in a pinch, but nothing beats the flavor of homemade pumpkin purée. We’re fortunate here in Western North Carolina to have a wide range of fresh-fromthe-field pumpkins currently for sale at farmers markets and grocers.
Though all pumpkins are technically edible, some are better for eating purposes than others. Look for pumpkins labeled “pie pumpkins.” Decorative varieties, including Long Island cheese, Cinderella and sugar, are also quite tasty in culinary applications.
Pumpkin purée
Makes: Around 5-6 cups
You will need: One 5-6 pound baking pumpkin
To prepare:
• Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
• Cut the pumpkin in half, then remove and discard or compost the seeds. Place flesh side down on a rimmed baking sheet and roast until the flesh has softened, about 45-50 minutes.
• Cool slightly, scoop the flesh out of the skin and purée in a food processor until smooth.
Pumpkin spice latte
Makes: Two servings
You will need:
• 2 cups milk of choice, dairy or nondairy
• 3 tablespoons pumpkin purée
• 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
Seasonal lasagna and lattes make use of WNC’s signature October gourd
• ½ cup strong hot coffee or 2 shots espresso
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, plus more for serving
• Whipped cream, optional for serving
To prepare:
• Place the milk, pumpkin purée and sugar in a medium saucepan. Whisk to combine, and then warm the mixture gently over medium heat. Heat the mixture until hot, but do not allow it to boil.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat. Whisk in the coffee or espresso, vanilla extract and pumpkin pie spice.
• Divide the mixture between two mugs. Top with whipped cream, if desired, and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
Pumpkin and sage lasagna
Makes: 8-10 servings
You will need:
For the meat sauce
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ pounds breakfast sausage meat (vegetarian breakfast sausage can be substituted)
• Leaves of 1 bunch kale, rinsed and chopped
• One 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
• ½ cup red or white wine
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• Several grinds of black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the lasagna
• One 16-ounce package lasagna noodles
• Butter for greasing the baking dish
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella
For the ricotta pumpkin filling
• ¼ cup fresh sage leaves, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Two 15-ounce containers ricotta cheese
• 2 cups pumpkin purée
• 1 large egg, beaten
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
To prepare:
Make the meat sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 10 minutes, until it becomes fragrant and turns a little
FALL
While all pumpkins — even Halloween jack-o'-lanterns — are edible, some varieties are especially tasty and suited for culinary uses, like the ones pictured, found at a local farmers market.
brown at the edges. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the sausage and cook, stirring every minute or so, until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the kale and cook down, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. Add the tomatoes, wine, salt, nutmeg, and pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. Add the flour and stir to completely incorporate.
Cook the meat sauce for another 5 minutes, then remove from the heat. Prepare the lasagna noodles according to the package’s instructions. While the noodles boil, make the ricotta filling.
Prepare the ricotta filling
Place the minced sage leaves and olive oil in a food processor and pulse briefly to combine. If you don’t have a food processor, you can simply blend the sage and oil together in a small bowl using a fork. Combine the sage pesto with the remaining ricotta filling ingredients in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Assemble the lasagna
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Liberally grease a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with butter. Spread roughly one-third of the meat sauce over the bottom of the baking pan. Sprinkle ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella across the sauce.
Place four lasagna noodles over the mozzarella, overlapping their edges as needed. Spread roughly one-third of the ricotta filling across the noodles. Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded mozzarella across the ricotta. Place four lasagna noodles over the mozzarella. Repeat the above steps twice more, with layers of the remaining meat sauce and ricotta filling, divided by lasagna noodles and scattered with cheese, ending with a layer of noodles on top. Scatter the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella evenly across the surface of the noodles. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the cheese is evenly browned across the surface of the dish.
Cool for 30-45 minutes before serving. The lasagna can be made one or two days ahead. To serve, reheat at 200 degrees F for about 30 minutes, until the dish is warm to the touch. X
FLAVOR:
Photo by Glenn English
Full-court bench press
A blooper reel from The Bier Garden
BY CHRISTOPHER ARBOR
On Jan. 1, Christopher Arbor and his friends pledged to visit one Asheville brewery each week for all of 2025 in the order that they opened, then share the experience with Mountain Xpress readers. To read about their recent trip to Appalachian Mountain Brewery Taproom and Kitchen, visit avl.mx/f5d.
Believe it or not, folks, this is the 40th installment in the Year in Beer series. With just 12 to go, we’re basically at the top of the ninth and coming down the home stretch.
Now, if you’re just tuning in, you may not know that one of the idiosyncrasies of our crew is that we don’t generally talk about sports. There are, of course, no penalties for bringing it up; it’s just not really part of our game plan.
With that in mind, how would we handle The Bier Garden, which since its inception over 30 years ago, has essentially been a sports bar? To put that in context, when it kicked off way back in 1994, the only brewery in town was Highland Brewing, which the late great Oscar Wong was just launching in the basement of Barley’s Taproom downtown.
Since then, The Bier Garden has been serving pub grub that ranges from reliable three-pointers (nachos, burgers and wings) to unique curveballs (poutine, caprese grilled cheese and an ahi tuna poke plate). It was only in 2023 that the business added brewing to its playbook.
During our recent visit, the crew huddled up and agreed that our starting lineup would be a flight of beers — a sort of World Series Final Four: A disciplined German pale ale, scrappy American IPA, a resilient English mild
and a French pilsner that surrendered to me before I could surrender to it.
“The American IPA,” Wes said, “is clearly a home run.”
I kept my eye on the ball in their court, waiting for my shot.
“Well,” Burke said. “This English mild could really go the distance.”
I threw in my own commentary from out of a leveled left playing field.
“This French pilsner,” I said, “has thrown in the ball and dropped the towel.”
The rest of the table stared at me.
“Yeah,” I said, keeping the gutterball rolling. “I’m not trying to play Monday morning line judge, but I think the pilsner fumbled the puck in the outfield. Checkmate.”
“Dude,” Wes said in disbelief. “You’re really bad at this.”
“Don’t worry,” Alan said — always the uplifting one. “Just pick a single sport for your metaphor and stick with it.”
“All right,” I said. “In the bonspiel of drinking, this pilsner is somewhere between a burned stone and a dead handle.”
The blank stares from my teammates in the scrum let me know that I’d still missed the mark of the checkered flag.
“What the heck kind of sport is that?” Burke asked.
“Curling,” I said.
“I’m calling a foul,” Wes said.
“Maybe simplify,” Alan said with encouragement. “Choke up on the bat, so to speak.”
“Got it,” I said. “The pilsner is a rare miscue from a usually reliable player?” Silence as everyone mulled it over, then an utterly unhurried but steadily increasing slow clap filled the room.
Wes howled, “GoOoOoOoOoOoOal!”
Then he stole a sip of my beer.
“It tastes pretty good to me,” he said. This Wednesday, we’ll be playing at 5:30 p.m. at Nine Mile West on Haywood Road. Join us if you like!
Until then, keep your glasses full and your metaphors mixed. From downtown Asheville, this is Christopher Arbor signing off. Raise a glass.
• Oct. 22: Nine Mile West on Haywood Road
• Oct. 29: Terra Nova Beer Co. on the South Slope X
GOOD SPORTS: It was the top of the ninth for the Year in Beer project, when the gang stepped onto the gridiron at The Bier Garden. Photo by Christopher Arbor
Let the good times roll
Cajun Cookoff kicks off Mardi Gras countdown
BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN
The Asheville Mardi Gras parade is about three months away, and preliminary events are already scheduled to help locals get in the spirit.
First up, featuring creations by amateur and professional chefs, is the Cajun Cookoff on Sunday, Oct. 26, 2-5 p.m., at Wicked Weed Brewing’s Funkatorium. Attendees will be able to sample popular Cajun dishes and creative reimaginings of the cuisine, including vegan and gluten-free options. Judges will decide the winners in professional chef and amateur chef categories, and ticket-holders will vote for the People’s Choice award. Jackomo Cajun Country Band and Asheville Second Line will also perform live music for folks looking to dance.
Ticket are $30 for general admission and $25 for current members of Asheville Mardi Gras. Proceeds benefit the 18th annual Asheville Mardi Gras Parade, scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 15. The theme for 2026 is "Life is a Carnival."
To learn more, visit avl.mx/f51.
Taqueria Rosita on the move
Just over a year after opening inside The Odd, Taqueria Rosita is on the move. According to an Instagram post, the “antojitos from Oaxaca” restaurant by Luis Martinez and Henry Padilla will close by the end of October.
“But don’t worry – this isn’t goodbye,” the post says. “Just a little ‘see you soon.’”
The post also notes that “[s]ometimes … it’s good to take a break and regroup” and that Taqueria Rosita will “be back before you know it.” Xpress contacted Martinez and Padilla for more details on the business’s next chapter but did not receive a reply.
To learn more, visit avl.mx/f5b.
Carolina Ground pop-up market
a.m.-1
CRAWFISH CO.: The Asheville Mardi Gras Cajun Cookoff fundraiser will be held Sunday, Oct. 26, at Wicked Weed Brewing’s Funkatorium. Photo courtesy of Asheville Mardi Gras
p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Carolina Ground facility, 1237 Shipp St., Hendersonville. Along with Carolina Ground flours, cornmeal, polenta and grits, local bakers and makers will be selling breads, pastries and pies made with locally milled flour. Cheese, eggs, honey, sorghum, botanical-dyed yarns and books will also be available. Vendors will include Hominy Farm, Stonewall Bakery, Folk Saints, Beeswax and Butter, Looking Glass Creamery, Le Bon Café, Bryson Homestead and more. Learn more at avl.mx/f5c.
Horse Shoe Farm happenings
The Horse Shoe Farm, a boutique luxury resort in Henderson County, hosts a pair of upscale culinary events this month.
On Friday, Oct. 24, 6-9 p.m., Michelin Moments features a multicourse tasting menu from chefs Seth Blumenthal and Camila Olarte at the property’s Silo Cookhouse. Blumenthal has worked in such Michelin-starred kitchens as Le Jardinier in New York City and Alter in Miami, while Olarte has spearhead-
ed culinary operations at Faena Hotel Miami Beach. Tickets start at $110.
On Tuesday, Oct. 28, 6-9 p.m., The Elemental Table: A Journey Across Land, Food & Story is a movable four-course meal inspired by the natural elements — air, water, earth and fire. Each course takes place in a distinct setting on the farm: on a covered bridge, by a pond, beneath a tree and beside a bonfire. Tickets start at $125.
To learn more and make reservations, visit avl.mx/f52.
Beer at Foothills Watershed
This month, Foothills Watershed in Old Fort began selling and serving its own craft beer on-site, discontinuing its bring-your-own-beverage policy on Oct. 8. Current offerings from Foothills' label Butcher Babe Brewing Co. include an English-style mild ale, a pub ale, a West Coaststyle IPA, a pale Mexican-style lager and more.
In a press release announcing the change, Foothills notes that it's in the process of building an in-house brewery with the help of people from Outsider Brewing Co. (read more at avl.mx/f4c), "who are bringing their one-of-a-kind, interactive brewing experience to our space." The release also says Outsider staff member Tony Jaquez Moreno is joining the Foothills team as head brewer.
For more on Foothills Watershed, visit avl.mx/ew9
— Edwin Arnaudin X
10/25: Reader: Melissa 11-3 Reader: Ed 12-6
Ancestor Veneration 101 w/ Byron Ballard, 6-7:30
10/26: Reader: Andrea 12-4 Tarot Collage, 6-8
10/28: Reader: Byron Ballard 1-5
Local flour mill Carolina Ground will host a pop-up market 10
Just in time for Halloween, local company Superhappy Productions has a new audio drama.
From Within: A Tale of the Macabre debuted Oct. 6 with the first two of its 11 episodes. Written and directed by area theater veteran Adam Arthur, the Lovecraftian tale of horror and loss takes place in the town of Blightwood, a troubled place that faces a new evil in the form of a mysterious force that lurks in the surrounding mountains. The cast features local performers Jeff Catanese, Darren Marshall, Mash Hes, Steven Samuels and many others, and is told through the letters and journals of those who survived — and some who did not. New installments drop early each Tuesday morning through Dec. 15. To learn more, visit avl.mx/f59. X
by Edwin Arnaudin |
From Within - A Tale of the Macabre Harmonies for Homes Gather Hear Tour
Multiply Creativity
310 Art has had a tough year. Formerly housed in the River Arts District, the contemporary fine arts school was destroyed in the floods caused by Tropical Storm Helene. Though the institution’s leaders were able to relocate it to Re.Imagine Gallery and Studios in Fairview, additional funds are needed to sustain its work through 2026.
To those ends, 310 Art is launching a monthlong fundraising effort for its schol-
arship program to keep tuition affordable for all students. Central to that campaign is the Multiply Creativity event on Friday, Oct. 24, 5-8 p.m., at the RAD Outpost in downtown Asheville. The evening includes food, drinks, a silent auction and music by Chris Wilhelm and Andrea Kulish Wilhelm. The event is free to attend, and the first $15,000 donated will be matched by a local sponsor.
To learn more, visit avl.mx/f54. X
Access to classical music can feel restrictive on a socioeconomic level, and it’s precisely those barriers that the Gather Hear Tour seeks to dismantle. Founded by Boston-based concert pianist Miki Sawada, the endeavor aims to perform free concerts in all 50 U.S. states — specifically in community gathering spaces (particularly rural locations) that don’t typically feature this genre.
For two weeks, from late October into early November, Sawada will tote her piano across North Carolina, playing 13 atypical sites with Philadelphiabased, Greensboro native rapper-composer Christopher Thompson. Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Sonata serves as the anchor work for the hourlong show, and Thompson’s new original composition for rap and piano, “Spira,” will conclude the event.
Two of these performances are set for Buncombe County: Wednesday, Oct. 29, at 5:30 p.m., at Asheville’s
Burton Street Community Center; and Thursday, Oct. 30, at 6 p.m., at Hope Valley Church in Swannanoa. To learn more, visit avl.mx/f58. X
For nearly five years, local musician Rahm Mandelkorn worked at homelessness support nonprofit Homeward Bound of WNC, and for the past four years he’s been organizing annual events to help raise money for its efforts. This year, he’s teamed up with fellow Asheville-based artists Eli Kahn and Josh Blake to expand the fundraising work, resulting in the Harmonies for Homes gathering on Sunday, Oct. 26, 3-10 p.m., at The Grey Eagle.
This family-friendly event features performances from such notable local groups as Coconut Cake, Las Montañitas, Rahm Squad, Eleanor & Friends Electric Band, King Garbage, After Ours, Hype Machine and Dr. Funky Squirrel. There
will also be a silent auction featuring items and experiences donated by local businesses, with all proceeds directly supporting Homeward Bound’s essential housing programs.
“We are deeply grateful for the incredible support from our local musicians and community,” says Abby Nelson, Homeward Bound development officer, in a press release. “Asheville’s vibrant music and arts scene is one-of-a-kind, and we’re honored to collaborate with so many local businesses that believe in our mission. This event is a true celebration of music, community and the spirit of Asheville.”
Tickets are $28.25. To learn more, visit avl.mx/f53. X
Photo of 310 Art teachers courtesy of 310 Art
Mash Hes plays Hattie Ogle in From Within: A Tale of the Macabre. Photo by Superhappy Productions
THE GREY EAGLE Daikaiju (surf-rock, hardcore, punk), 8pm
THE JOINT NEXT
DOOR
Laura Thurston (Americana, folk), 7pm
THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING
CO.
Well-Crafted Music Series: Stevie Tombstone (multi-genre), 6pm
THE MULE
Jazz Trio & Wine Wednesdays, 6pm
THE ODD
Terraoke Karaoke Takeover, 9pm
THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL
Sound of Sirens (R&B, soul, rock), 10pm
THIRD ROOM
Disclaimer Stand-Up
Comedy Open Mic, 8pm
TWIN LEAF BREWERY
Open Mic Night, 6pm
URBAN ORCHARD Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm
WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN
• Irish Session, 5pm • Open Mic Night, 7pm
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23
CROW & QUILL
Drayton & The Dreamboats (jazz, rock'n'roll), 8:30pm
EULOGY
Flyte (indie-folk), 8pm
FLEETWOOD'S North by North, Puppy and the Dogs & Basement Healer (punk, indie, garagerock), 9pm
FRENCH BROAD
RIVER BREWERY
Jerry's Dead
Thursdays (Grateful Dead & JGB tribute), 6pm
GREEN MAN BREWERY
Thursday Night Trivia, 7pm
HI-WIRE BREWING South Slope Open Mic w/Stephen Evans, 5:30pm
CLUBLAND
NEW ZEALAND INDIE HEROES: The Orange Peel hosts
New Zealand indie-rock band The Beths on Thursday, Oct. 30, starting at 8 p.m. Joining The Beths on this stop of their North American tour is Phoebe Rings, a New Zealand-based dream pop band. Photo courtesy of Frances Carter
JACK OF THE WOOD PUB
Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm
OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.
Two Step Too (Americana, blues), 7pm
ONE WORLD BREWING
Ryles Monroe (acoustic), 7pm
ONE WORLD BREWING WEST
Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm
PISGAH BREWING CO.
Fresh Buzz (indie, rock, funk), 7pm
SHAKEY'S Karaoke w/DJ Franco Nino, 9pm
SLY GROG LOUNGE
Witches & Waifus
Episode V: The Catz are Back (hardcore, bass, electronic), 8pm
SOVEREIGN KAVA
Stand Up Comedy for Your Health, 8pm
STATIC AGE LOFT
Auto-Tune Karaoke w/ Who Gave This B*tch A Mic, 10pm
STATIC AGE RECORDS
Chain Cult, Secret
Shame & Ronnie Stone (dark, post-punk, synthpop), 8:45pm
THE GREY EAGLE
• Patio: Local Chapter & Hidden Cabins (indie, alt-folk), 5:30pm
• Bronwyn Keith-Hynes (bluegrass, Americana), 8pm
THE JOINT NEXT DOOR
The Pubsters (rock'n'roll, funk, blues), 7pm
THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC
HALL
Armchair Boogie (bluegrass, rock), 9pm
TWIN WILLOWS
The Candleers (country), 5pm
WICKED WEED BREWING
Owen Walsh (acoustic), 5pm
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24
ALL DAY DARLING
Dinah's Daydream (jazz), 6pm
WHERE YOUR DRINK SUPPORTS THE ARTS
ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL
DangeMuffin (Americana, folk, rock), 9pm
COFFEE, ART, MUSIC
TYPE PLACE
Open Mic, 6pm
CORK & KEG
Moon Hunter (rock, blues, country), 8pm
CROW & QUILL
Firecracker Jazz Band (jazz), 8pm
FLEETWOOD'S
The Kindest People, In Dog Years & Lucille Klement (indie, punk, psych-rock), 9pm
ARIES (March 21-April 19): I bet your upcoming night dreams will include marriages, mating dances, and sacramental unions. Even if you are not planning deeper mergers with trustworthy allies in your waking life, your subconscious mind is musing on such possibilities. I hope this horoscope inspires you to make such fantasies more conscious. What collaborations and blends would serve you well? Give your imagination permission to ponder new and exciting connections. Visualize yourself thriving amidst new connections.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In winemaking, malolactic fermentation softens a wine’s tart malic acid into gentler lactic acid. This process imparts a creamier and rounder mouthfeel, while preserving the wine’s structure. In accordance with astrological omens, I invite you to adopt this as your metaphor of power. See if you can refine your intensity without losing your integrity. Keep things interesting but soften the edges a bit. Introduce warmth and steadiness into provocative situations so they’re free of irritation and easier to engage with, but still enriching.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The coming weeks will be an excellent time to practice the art of strategic disruption. One way to do it is to interrupt your patterns so they don’t calcify and obstruct you. Just for fun, you could eat breakfast for dinner. Take a different route to a familiar place. Talk to a person you would usually avoid. Say no when you'd normally say yes, or vice versa. Part of your brain loves efficiency, habits, and well-worn grooves. But grooves can become ruts. As a rousing spiritual experiment, you could do things differently for no reason except to prove to yourself that you can. Playful chaos can be a form of prayer. Messing with your standard approaches will unleash your creativity.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): In Shinto mythology, Ame-no-Uzume is the goddess of mirth and revelry. In one story, she seduces the sun out of its hiding place by performing a humorous and provocative dance. I am sending her over to your sphere right now in the hope that she will coax you out of your comfort zone of retreat, control, and self-protection. While I’m glad you have taken this break to recharge your spiritual batteries, I think it’s time to come out and play. You have done important work to nurture and process your deep feelings. Now we would love you to express what you’ve learned with freewheeling panache.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Ancient cultures in Sumeria, Egypt, and China used willow bark as a pain reliever. Many centuries later, in 1828, European scientists isolated the chemical salicin from the bark and used it to create aspirin. What had been a folk remedy became a widely used medicine all over the planet. Is there a metaphorically comparable development unfolding in your life? I think so. Something you’ve known or practiced could be evolving into its next form. The world may finally be ready to receive wisdom, a technique, or an insight you’ve used for a long time. Consider refining and upgrading it. Share it in ways that meet the present moment’s specific need.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In honor of your special needs right now, Virgo, I am coining a new English word: edge-ucation. It’s like “education” but with an extra edge. Though book-learning is included in its purview, it also requires you to seek out raw teaching in all possible ways: on the streets, the bedroom, the natural world, everywhere. To properly pursue your higher edge-education, you must hunt down provocative influences, thought-provoking adventures, and unfamiliar stimulation. Make the whole world your laboratory and classroom.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): When I began writing horoscopes years ago, I had greater empathy with some of the signs than with others. But I worked hard to overcome this bias, and now I truly love and understand every tribe of the
zodiac equally. I attribute this accomplishment to the fact that I have three Libra planets in my natal chart. They have propelled me to develop a warm, affectionate, fair-minded objectivity. I have a deeply honed capacity for seeing and liking people as they genuinely are, without imposing my expectations and projections onto them. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to tap into these qualities in yourself, dear Libra.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Many cultures regard obsidian as having protective powers against negative energy. This makes it popular for healing talismans. Obsidian mirrors have often been used to scry for visions and prophecies. Because obsidian is so sharp, ancient peoples incorporated it into tools used to hunt for food, like knives and arrowheads. In modern times, obsidian is used for its beauty in tabletops, tiles, and architectural components. Do you know how this precious substance is formed? It's born in the shock between elements: molten lava meets water or cool air and hardens so quickly that crystals can’t form, trapping a mirror-dark clarity in volcanic glass. I propose we make it your symbolic power object in the coming months, Scorpio.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Medieval alchemists engaged in literal laboratory work as they attempted to create elixirs of immortality, concoct medicines to heal diseases, and metamorphose lead into gold. But the modern practice of alchemy is primarily a psychological effort to achieve awakening and enlightenment. In the early stages of the work, the seeker experiences the metaphorical “black sun.” It’s a dark radiance, the beginning of creative decay, that fuels the coming transformation. I suspect you now have the potential to call on this potent asset, Sagittarius. It’s wild, though. You must proceed with caution and discernment. What worn-out aspects of yourself are you ready to let rot, thereby fertilizing future growth?
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In Japan, *shakkei* refers to the practice of “borrowed scenery.” The idea is to create a garden so that surrounding features become part of its expansive context: distant mountains, an expanse of sky, or a nearby body of water. The artistry lies in allowing the horizon to merge gracefully with what’s close at hand. I recommend this approach to you, Capricorn. Frame your current project with a backdrop that enlarges it. Partner with places, influences, or long-view purposes that augment your meaning and enhance your beauty. Align your personal actions with a vast story so they send even more potent ripples out into the world.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Computer scientist Radia Perlman is the “Mother of the Internet.” She invented the Spanning Tree Protocol, a component that’s essential for the flow of online data. Despite her work’s splashy importance, hardly anyone knows of her. With that in mind, I remind you: Some revolutions unfold with little fanfare; positive transformations may be inconspicuous. How does that relate to you? I suspect the next beautiful or useful thing you contribute may also be veiled and underestimated, at least at first. And yet it may ultimately generate a shift more significant than you can now imagine. My advice is to trust the long game. You’re doing good work, though its recognition may be late in arriving.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The mystical Persian poet Hafez wrote, “Fear is the cheapest room in the house. I’d like to see you living in better conditions.” Picture that shabby room, Pisces: cramped, dim, damp. Now imagine you have resolved to never again live in such a place. In fact, sometime soon you will move, metaphorically speaking, into a spacious, high-ceilinged place with wide windows and skylights, fresh air flooding through. I believe life will conspire on your behalf if you initiate this bold move. You now have extra power to exorcize at least some of your angsts and embrace liberating joy.
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ACROSS
1 State trees of North Dakota
5 Ditto, in footnotes
9 Measure (up)
14 First in a line of 14 popes
15 Some garage jobs
17 Olympian Strug
18 Start of a joke
20 Elder brother of Moses
21 Brand whose name is derived from the French phrase “sans caféine”
22 Perfectly pitched?
24 Sound effect in a slapstick routine
25 One might hit it or raise it, metaphorically
27 Vodka cocktails with orange liqueur and lime juice
29 Awakening
32 World Cup champs of 1978, 1986 and 2022: Abbr.
33 Knowing what not to say, say
34 Regional life forms
38 Kitchen appliance brand
42 Cry of dismay
43 Grammy-winning Bruno Mars album of 2016 … or a hint to an unusual feature of this puzzle’s answer grid
45 “Fat chance!”
46 Classroom assignments
48 Encouraged, with “on”
49 Pressing
50 Cred
52 One-named Barbadian superstar
54 Title nickname in a classic 1984 sports film
60 Time when streetlights turn on
61 “All right already, I’ll do it!”
62 Punk or funk
64 Joined, as a table
67 Edmonton athlete
69 Trinket
71 Swedish coin
72 Nursery song refrain
73 Really loving
74 Like a smart aleck
75 Pushing against a boundary … like this answer?
76 “Shreds,” in winter sports lingo
DOWN
1 ___ Club
2 Actress Dunham
3 Apollo mission mementos
4 Alternative to a strike [cough cough]
5 Variety
6 Brooks & ___ (country duo)
7 Literary download
8 Anime style involving giant robots
9 Rocksteady precursor 10 Soothing home remedy for puffy eyes
11 Spanish rice 12 Sorcerous elder of folklore
13 Garden hose problems
16 Go over lightly
19 Enemy agency in “Get Smart”
23 ___ Maria (liqueur)
26 Beatles sobriquet
28 See 68-Down
Texter’s [!!!]
Make “it,” in a kids’ game
Ripening agent
Body of policy advisers
Take home
Bird named for a Titan
Like some short tennis matches
Contrite answer to “Who put the empty ice cream carton back in the freezer?”
String tightener on a guitar
Ear covering
Screwballs
Director Kurosawa
Caramel-filled candies 57 Actress Palmer of “Nope”
Outie’s counterpart
Hung on the clothesline
Vape pen, informally
When Hamilton arrives in New York City, in “Hamilton”