A favorite among locals, the Asheville Vintage Market offers one-of-a-kind treasures from crafters spanning 16 states. The fair features a diverse array of vintage goods including furniture, clothing, jewelry, and collectibles. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a novice enthusiast, you’ll find unique pieces and nostalgic finds to explore and purchase. » WNC Agricultural Center, 761 Boylston Hwy.; Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m..-3 p.m.; $15 Friday, $10 Saturday, $5 Sunday; www.vintagemarkets.com
event-calendar
EVENTS
The popular local seven-piece funk group is teaming up with Denver’s electronica-soul fusion duo Future Joy for an unforgettable evening. Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band, which was formed in Boone more than 20 years ago, and since then, the group has played thousands of shows and collaborated with a number of notable artists including the Dirty Dozen Brass Band of New Orleans, LA, and Colorado keyboardist Bernie Worrell. www.devilsfootbrew.com - The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd. Ste 10, Asheville | $20-$25
100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River | 3 p.m. | $8 per pint
Sierra Nevada is offering a rare opportunity to tap into a unique flavor this Friday. Tasters can expect flavors of pine, rose, and other florals, according to Brian Grossman, chief brewer and owner. Celly Drippins is made from the dry hop bags of the fan favorite Celebration IPA; because the batch is labor-intensive to make, supplies are limited and only available at the brewery's Mills River taproom.
One of the only farmers markets in our region open during the winter months, Hickory Farmers Market hosts dozens of local farmers and makers ready to peddle their wares, including Hickory Smokehouse, B Shaw’s Lemonade, The Happy Beige Mama, and The Porch Potters. The Empire State Band is also performing at Saturday’s market. www. hickoryfarmersmarket.com - Union Square, Hickory | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Free
This November marks 24 years for the Asheville Turkey Trot, an annual Thanksgiving tradition for many. This run raises money and awareness for the Manna FoodBank, helping to fight hunger in Western North Carolina. Thousands of participants from the local community join to run through downtown Asheville, enjoying scenic views and cheers from festive fans along the way. Runners can choose either a 5k and a 10k option; participants are encouraged to don their best turkey-themed attire for the race. Prizes are offered to the first three overall for men and women, first place for masters men and women, and top three in age group categories. Free parking is available on metered spots in the downtown area. » Woodfin St., Asheville; Thursday, 9:15 a.m.; $35; (828) 253-0701; www.ashevilleturkeytrot.com
For every local, the true start of the Christmas season begins with the beloved tradition of the local theater’s annual production, A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas. Celebrating its ninth anniversary this year, this cherished holiday show is described by FRP Music Director Ethan Anderson as ,“a holiday love-letter to our community.” Since its inception in 1952, Flat Rock Playhouse has been a cornerstone of local entertainment, delighting audiences with its exceptional talent and creative flair. Whether you’re a seasoned theater enthusiast or seeking family-friendly entertainment, attending one of these shows promises to immerse you in the holiday spirit. Experience the magic of Leiman Mainstage as the curtain rises on this festive production, featuring music, laughter, and heartwarming performances that capture the essence of Christmas in Flat Rock. » Flat Rock Playhouse, 2661 Greenville Hwy.; Various dates and times; $55-$75, $30-$50 17 and under; (828) 693-0731; www.flatrockplayhouse.org
Dating back to 1866, Tweetsie Railroad’s steam-powered locomotive chugs through the Wild West this holiday season. Visitors can take a three-mile looped ride on the historic train, visit with Santa Claus in Santa’s Gingerbread House, enjoy s’mores and hot cocoa, amusement park rides, carolers, and a special Christmas show. www.tweetsie.com - Tweetsie Railroad, 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock | 5 p.m. | $60 ages 13+, $30 ages 3-12, free for children under 2 - https://tweetsie.com/
*Closed Thanksgiving Eve, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve.
Downtown Brevard’s annual holiday festival transforms the city into a snowy winter wonderland. On Main Street, witness the tree-lighting ceremony while perusing for gifts at various vendor booths. There will also be live music performances like the Tuba Christmas concert and Carolina Dance Collaborative dances, and savory local food and drinks for sale from Brevard’s restaurants. Activities include skating on the ice rink, hayrides, and shopping downtown for holiday gifts. Kids can visit the Letter to Santa station to send off their wishes. A local favorite is the Chamber Christmas Parade to usher in the holiday spirit in the heart of Brevard. » Courthouse, Downtown Brevard; Saturday, 11 a.m..-7 p.m.; free; (828) 884-3278; www.explorebrevard.com
Likely to remain a favorite holiday memory, this night of fun features a performance by the Transylvania Choral Society accompanied by the Brevard Philharmonic Orchestra, the latter under the baton of James C. Fellenbaum. Listen to favorites such as Tchaikovsky’s music from The Nutcracker and “Christmas Waltz” from The Seasons, in addition to well-known holiday arrangements from other musicians. Since its formation in 1975, the Transylvania Choral Society has become one of the premier musical arts organizations in Western North Carolina and is under the direction of David Gresham of Brevard College. » The Porter Center, 1 Brevard College Dr.; Sunday, 3 p.m.; $43; (828) 884-4221; www.brevardphilharmonic.org