event-calendar

Now in its 25th year, these races serve as the biggest fundraiser for the Asheville Kiwanis Club, which works to aid children and those in need. Both the 5k and 15k begin and end at the estate’s Antler HIll Village and are USATF certified. Entrance fees to the Estate are included in registration costs, so runners can check out the grounds after the race and until 1 p.m. Runners can also expect some nice race swag. » Biltmore Estate, 1 Lodge St.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. 15k, 7:45 a.m. 5k; $65-$70 5k, $90-$95 15k; www.biltmorekiwanisclassic.com

In 1922, English archaeologist Howard Carter traveled to Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, where he unearthed the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, an 18th Dynasty ruler who took power at only nine years old. Along with King Tut’s tomb, many of the other artifacts Carter collected appear in this traveling exhibit, one of the most complete collections of Egyptian history in the world. While in Asheville, the collection also includes information about the connections between the famous excavation and the Vanderbilt-Cecil family. » Biltmore Estate, 1 Lodge St.; Daily, times vary; $132-$196 including house, exhibition & grounds, $383-$447 including exclusive tour, house, exhibition & grounds; (800) 411-3812; www.biltmore.com

Four times a year, the Historic Banner Elk School welcomes stellar regional artisans ready to sell their work; a variety of media such as metal, glass, ceramics, wood, watercolor, acrylics, and oil will be available for purchase. Although there is no admission fee, the sales proceeds go towards the restoration of the school. Built in 1939, the school is a community anchor, as it’s home to the Banner Elk Artists Gallery, Ensemble Stage professional theater, and other establishments. » Historic Banner Elk School, 185 Azalea Wy.; Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; free; (828) 898-5398; www.townofbannerelk.org

Celebrated as one of the largest gardening events in Western North Carolina, this fête draws plant and outdoor vendors and enthusiasts from near and far—more than 200 craft and plant vendors line Hendersonville’s downtown streets. Numerous nurseries will be selling non-flowering and flowering plants—even those not typically found when plant shopping—and gardening experts will be on hand to provide valuable tips. Additionally, shop for handmade crafts like soaps, pottery, birdhouses, furniture, and more. » Main Street; Saturday & Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; free; (828) 233-3216; www.hendersonvillenc.gov

The renowned white squirrels of Brevard continue to elicit intrigue and charm, and for two decades, the community has honored these captivating creatures with a weekend event named after them. Expect a litany of family-friendly activities, with live music, a diverse array of vendors, arts and crafts, and libations from local breweries. Plus, have a photo taken with the White Squirrel mascot and enjoy the environs of this delightful mountain town. » Downtown Brevard; Friday-Sunday, times vary; free; (828) 884-3278; www.brevardnc.org

It’s time to get outside, enjoy nature, and run with friends in this relay honoring Beer City. Kicking off in the River Arts District, you’ll run down the Greenway and make your way through the French Broad River Park before returning to partake in the afterparty or enjoy a finisher beer at New Belgium Brewing. A portion of every entry fee will be donated to Consider Haiti, an organization centered on promoting the health and well-being of children in the country. » New Belgium Brewing, 21 Craven St.; Saturday, 9 a.m.; $50-$55 5k, $60-$65 10k, $50-$60 team members; Facebook: Beer City Relay

This music festival features three days of traditional and innovative sounds from more than 35 bands, including Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road, Coyote Ugly, Authentic Unlimited, and Malpass Brothers. Concessions and full camper hook-ups are available. » Happy Holiday RV Village, 1553 Wolfetown Rd.; Thursday-Saturday, noon-10 p.m.; $20-$110, free for ages 7 and under; Facebook: Cherokee Bluegrass Festival

The High Country of Western North Carolina has a rich tradition in fiber arts. Celebrate it at this festival, which not only features vendors selling artisan crafts, but offers many classes in topics including crochet, knitting, weaving, fiber dye techniques, and embroidery as well. » Justice Carlisle Higgins Fairgrounds and Agricultural Center, 1375 US-21; Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; free; (336) 648-9950; www.blueridgefiberfest.com

In its fourth year, the High Country Jazz Festival returns for three days of performances, film viewings, and celebrations at the Appalachian Theater. The main acts this year are the Dizzy Gillespie Big Band, a tributary to the legendary trumpeter and composer, Grammy-winning vocalist Catherine Russell, and the witty and innovative duo Noel & Maria. Smaller shows, lectures, and gatherings will be held at various local venues, including late-night renditions at The Beacon Butcher Bar » Appalachian Theater of the High Country, 559 West King St.; Friday & Saturday 11 a.m.-midnight, Sunday noon-5 p.m.; prices vary; (828) 865-3000; www.apptheatre.org

North Carolina science fiction and fantasy writer Manly Wade Wellman often drew inspiration from the Western North Carolina mountains in his writings (locals say these peaks are haunted, after all). The Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre reenacts the adventures of Silver John, one of Wellman’s most frequent protagonists, on his travels through the Appalachians toting a silver-stringed guitar. Indie-rock singer-songwriter and guitarist Tyler Ramsey performs live music alongside the dance troupe for an unforgettable evening of mystery and fantasy come to life. » Diana Wortham Theater, 18 Biltmore Ave.; Friday & Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; $20-$50; (828) 257-4530; www.worthamarts.org

The Flatwoods Festival offers up a combination of bluegrass, folk, gospel, and country tunes from local artists like four-piece outfit The JackTown Ramblers—based in Morganton—and other regional acts like The New Primitive band and singer-songwriter Mark Stuart. The venue, Into the Wild Retreat, has food trucks on-site, and luxury glamping available for patrons. Bringing your own chair is recommended. » Into the Wild Retreat, 400 Flatwoods Rd.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; $15-$20; (828) 406-2877; www.intothewildretreat.com