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Liberty, lectures, and local history
Be there for a full day of historical education. | Photo via Buncombe County Libraries
Buncombe County Special Collections has partnered with several NC historical sites to present a full day of America250 events on Friday, Feb. 27, delving into the fundamental ideals of democracy and the diversity of voices that have shaped our nation.
The programming is centered around the theme, “When are we US?,” inviting local historians to speak to NC’s history of immigration, integration, fundamental rights, emancipation, and voting.
Here’s what’s on schedule for the symposium:
“A New Birth of Freedom in the Mountain South” | 9:30 a.m.
Historian Dr. Steven Nash, author of “Reconstruction’s Ragged Edge,” will explore the aftermath of slavery in Western North Carolina in a lecture followed by a Q&A session.
“A Woman of Her Own Making” | 10:30 a.m.
Professor Rebecca Godwin will spotlight Julia Wolfe, not just as Thomas Wolfe’s mother, but as a trailblazing businesswoman and symbol of early 20th-century female independence.
Be part of the future of Asheville travel + hospitality
Presented by Explore Asheville
Buncombe County’s travel and hospitality industry includes a diverse array of careers across sectors. | Photos provided by Explore Asheville
Tourism and hospitality have always been at the heart of our city, with one in seven jobs supporting the visitor economy. As the industry continues to recover from Helene, Explore Asheville’s Workforce Development Program is shaping the future.
The scholarship awards up to $2,500 annually toward tuition, housing, other educational expenses for students pursuing hospitality careers at any North Carolina post-secondary institution.
Today’s the day. Rhubarb offically reopens downtown this evening under new ownership, serving familiar favorites and new dishes from Executive Chef Mallory Foster. Go ahead and grab a resy for dinner.
Civic
Buncombe County secured $1.4 million in FEMA reimbursement for emergency response efforts during Helene. County commissioners approved a budget amendment to distribute funds to partner agencies, including Henderson County, the Fairview Fire Department, and Buncombe County Schools, to cover storm response costs.
Eat
Cúrate is toasting to 15 years of shared meals and Spanish tapas with a celebratory prix fixe dinner on Wednesday, March 11. Make a reservation to mark the milestone.
History
“Black Stories in Census Tract 2" is now open at Buncombe County Special Collections, showcasing Asheville’s historic Black neighborhoods. The multimedia exhibit blends oral histories and archival research to honor the social, cultural, and historical impact of Stumptown, Hill Street, and South Montford families. See it through Tuesday, April 21.
Shop
The Whale’s South Slope bar is the new temporary home of plant shop The Swan. Stop by the welcome party this Sunday, Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. for houseplants, vintage goods, oysters, and spritzes.
Sports
Thanks to a nearly $1.4 million gift from the NC Education Lottery’s Public School Building Capital Fund, North Buncombe High School will get a tennis court replacement.
You don’t need to hit a breaking point to start therapy. If you’re replaying conversations or overthinking decisions, Octave Therapy can match you with a vetted, fully licensed therapist. Octave is in-network with many major plans + the average session cost is $28 out of pocket. Find your in-network therapist today.*
Shop
High-quality cannabis, delivered to your door in about an hour. Arete Express delivery is now available in Asheville for fast + convenient good vibes. Place your first order.†*
Editor’s Pick
Shorts steal the spotlight
The Fine Arts Theatre is ready for its close up. | Photo by Joshua O.
See the short films making a big buzz. Starting tomorrow, Feb. 20 through Thursday, Feb. 26, the Fine Arts Theatre will begin its annual showing of the 2026 Oscar-nominated short films.
This year, the theater will show films from all three categories: animation, live action, and documentary. But play close attention to the schedule — showtimes vary by category.
The Buy
Level up at-home workouts with five products that are actually worth the money:
Looking for our Games page? You can find it here, and check back to the link each day for new challenges. Thanks to all of our readers who let us know you’re enjoying this page — our team is continuing to work on even more ways to play in the future.
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