When it comes to markets — the more, the merrier. | Photo via Show & Tell
With all the creativity running through our community, it’s no surprise that this season’s schedule is teeming with holiday markets. And they’re delivering an abundance of gifts, goods, and festive spirit.
So make your list and check it twice — then stop by to find something special and support local makers.
Trackside Studios Holiday Market | Friday, Dec. 6-Sunday, Dec. 8 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Trackside Studios | This market also serves as the reopening of the RAD studio — come out and support the artists, many of which lost their work.
Uncommon Market | Saturday, Dec. 7-Sunday, Dec. 8 | 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. | Haywood Park Hotel | Find something for everyone on your list with the help of antique vendors, artists, and makers.
The Big Crafty | Saturday, Dec. 7-Sunday, Dec. 8 | 12-6 p.m. | Harrah’s Cherokee Center - Asheville | Don’t miss this annual market spotlighting an array of artists from all over the region — entry is $10 on Saturday and free on Sunday.
Saturday, Dec. 7 Holiday Book Sale | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | East Asheville Library | $5+ | Fill up a provided bag with great reads to support the Friends of the East Asheville Library.
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King | Saturday, Dec. 7 | Times vary | Diana Wortham Theatre | $23+ | See the Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre’s thirteenth annual performance of the ballet, based on the original 1816 story.
Winter Wonder Walk | Saturday, Dec. 7-Saturday, Dec. 14 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Adventure Center of Asheville | $0+ | Embark on the family-friendly, immersive walk filled with actors, lights, and holiday cheer.
Sunday, Dec. 8 Holiday Spectacular Drag Brunch | Sunday, Dec. 8 | Times vary | Ella Asheville | $10+ | It’s brunch and a show with captivating lip-sync performances and a meal from Celine & Company — plus, proceeds benefit Loving Food Resources.
Blue Ridge Orchestra’s “Finding Home” | 3-5 p.m. | UNC Asheville, Lipinsky Auditorium | $20 | Experience the familiarity of home through classical compositions and holiday favorites.
Comedy for Community | 6:30-8 p.m. | Catawba Brewing Company South Slope Asheville | $15 | A host of local comedians will join to raise money for Burnsville charities.
Monday, Dec. 9 Bad Art Night | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Tempie Avery Montford Community Center | Free | Folks 60+ can express their creativity no matter their skill level at this art event celebrating the beauty of imperfections.
Tuesday, Dec. 10 WNC Repair Cafe | 5-8 p.m. | Pack Memorial Library | Free | Skilled volunteer seamstresses will repair your beloved clothing and fabric items.
Buncombe County has begun accepting applications for its Helene Recovery Housing Assistance Grant. Eligible applicants can receive three months of rent, mortgage, or utility payment assistance. Applications are accepted through Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 5 p.m. — plus, learn about more rental assistance programs.
Open
Atomic Furnishing re-opened at 178 Broadway St., completing a relocation process brought on by Hurricane Helene.“We still have so many plans and ideas for the future, but we’re taking it one day at a time and are so excited for what’s to come,” reads the Instagram announcement post.
The Word
Oxford University Press announced its pick for Word of the Year — “brain rot.” Other finalists included “lore,” “dynamic pricing,” and “slop.” Counter the brain rot by heading to one of these 10+ museums in Asheville. (Time Magazine)
Listen
In case your Instagram feed isn’t filled with people sharing that they’re in the top 1% of Taylor Swift listeners, allow us to inform you: Spotify Wrapped is out. If you’re looking for a new listen, check out these local podcasts to add to your playlist.
Spread the love locally. | Photo provided by MANNA FoodBank
There are more than enough great causes in AVL to support with your time, especially as many organizations work tirelessly to help our communities rebuild. Whether you’re an animal lover, an artsy type, a natural mentor, or a healthcare enthusiast — there’s a nearby volunteer opportunity for you. Here are 40+ ways to get involved in Asheville.
Help with Helene recovery
Hands On Asheville-Buncombe | Explore a variety of opportunities to serve Asheville area nonprofits through United Way’s volunteer center.
MountainTrue | Follow along on social media to know about upcoming river cleanups — make sure to bring your PPE.
MANNA FoodBank | Complete volunteer orientation to begin helping the food bank distribute resources across WNC.
BeLoved Asheville | Help the nonprofit provide critical necessities to those most affected by the storm.
Hearts with Hands | There are currently shifts available to help sort and pack donated goods — just be sure to sign the first-time volunteer waiver before claiming a shift.
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Morning, Asheville. I’m excited to be back in your inbox today, sharing some festive weekend happenings. And come the new year, you can look forward to once again getting our Saturday newsletter each week.
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