Latest news with #SmokyMountains
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Little River Road, the Spur to temporarily closed in June for maintenance
GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WATE) — Two roads within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be temporarily closed in June. The National Park Service will be completing maintenance on Little River Road and the Spur. Crews will be mowing and pruning, cleaning out ditches and culverts, repairing shoulder drop-off and mitigating hazardous trees. During the closures, Elkmont, Metcalf Bottoms and Cades Cove will remain accessible, but detours may be in place. Great Smoky Mountains National Park to hold monthly ASL-Interpreted programs Little River Road closures: On June 3 and 4, Little River Road will be closed between Townsend Wye to Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area from 7 a.m. to noon. Wears Valley Road (US 321) between Townsend and Line Springs Road can be used as a detour. On June 5, Little River Road will be closed between Metcalf Bottoms to Elkmont Junction from 7 a.m. to noon. Wears Valley Road between Line Springs Road and Pigeon Forge can be used as a detour. Spur single-lane closures: From June 9-12, temporary single-lane closures will be implemented along the north and southbound Spur from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Laurel Falls Trail in the Smokies closed through 2026 for 'major rehabilitation' Visitors should plan for additional time when traveling in these areas. In addition, motor homes, buses, vans longer than 25 feet and any passenger vehicles towing a trailer are prohibited on Wear Cove Gap Road from the park boundary to the Metcalf Bottoms bridge. In 2024, the park closed Little River Road for the first time to complete road maintenance. During these closures, park staff were able to mow and string trim 24 miles along roadsides, pull and clean 8.5 miles of roadside ditches, repair 27 damaged road shoulder areas and side arm 12 miles of roadside banks. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
May 2025: More than 100 things to do in Asheville and beyond
May 2025: Your guide to things to do in Asheville and across Western North Carolina Things to do with your kids in Asheville, Hendersonville and WNC – find plenty to do from babies to teens. Look for weekly updates and highlights and even more events at Continue to check with event organizers before you go. Look for changes, weather delays and updates in real time on Facebook at Send your organization's family events to chris@ May is Hike On Month in Beech Mountain, North Carolina. Guided hikes and giveaways are available at the visitor's center. A comprehensive hiking guide is available at providing trail recommendations for all skill levels and tips. A different trail will be featured each week in May. Dollywood's Flower & Food Festival continues through June 8 with more than 1 million vibrant blooms, menus featuring fresh tastes of spring in the Smokies and unique entertainment offerings, including 'Play On,' a new show to celebrate Dollywood's 40th anniversary season, opening May 3, the date of the park's first operational day in 1986. The Imagination Playhouse, which features plays based on books from Dolly's Imagination Library, offers shows for younger guests through the end of September. During Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, new story time and character meet & greets are part of the Imagination Playhouse experience. Visit Jurassic Adventure is open May 21 – Nov. 2 at The Island in Pigeon Forge. Admission is free. Wander amid 22 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, each with interactive elements and sounds. Included is a custom Island Fountain Show that tells the story of the dinosaurs. Interactive features include posted QR codes linked to details about each dinosaur, including sounds and free downloadable wallpapers. The Island is open daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and does not have gated admission. All ticketed attractions are ala carte. For details, visit WNC Nature Center is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. with last admission at 3:30 p.m. Friends members can enter the park at 9:30 a.m. The ticket office is cashless. Tickets are available for purchase in advance online or in person using credit/debit and prepaid cash cards. For more information, visit Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures is open through Jan. 4 at the Amherst at Deerpark Exhibition Center at Biltmore Estate. This exhibition offers an exploration into ancient Egypt and the time of Tutankhamun, featuring a close look at the discovery of King Tut's tomb and the extraordinary treasures that were found inside, exactly as they were when first discovered by famed archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. Showcasing the cultural heritage of one of history's most significant archaeological finds, this exhibition features expert-crafted, true-to-life replicas of artifacts. For tickets and details, visit YMCA Camp Watia Family Camp is May 16-18. Family members ages 6 and older can participate in camp activities, including climbing, adventure course, mountain biking, archery, fishing, waterslide, paddleboarding, swimming, songs and games, campfires and more. For full details and registration information, Buncombe County farmers markets are open. Nine markets in Buncombe County will continue to offer ASAP's Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables and Farm Fresh Produce Prescription*. Both programs expand access to fresh fruits and vegetables to more people. Learn more about how these programs work at Asheville City Market:* Saturday, 9 a.m.–noon, N. Market St. between Woodfin & Walnut Black Mountain Tailgate Market:* opens May 3, Saturdays, 9 a.m.–noon, 130 Montreat Road North Asheville Tailgate Market:* Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon, UNC Asheville, Lot P34 Southside Community Farmers Market:* opens June 1, first Sundays, noon–3 p.m., 133 Livingston St. West Asheville Tailgate Market:* Tuesdays, 3:30–6:30 p.m., 718 Haywood Road Leicester Farmers Market: opens May 3, Wednesdays, 3–6 p.m., 2979 New Leicester Hwy. River Arts District Farmers Market:* Wednesdays, 3–6 p.m., 350 Riverside Drive Weaverville Tailgate Market:* Wednesdays, 3–6 p.m., 60 Lakeshore Drive Enka-Candler Farmer's Market:* Thursdays, 3:30–6:30 p.m., 1465 Sand Hill Road Biltmore Park Farmers Market: opens May 29, Thursdays, 3–6 p.m., 1 Town Square Blvd. East Asheville Tailgate Market:* Fridays, 3–6 p.m., 954 Tunnel Road WNC Farmers Market: Daily, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., 570 Brevard Road, Farmer's Truck Shed #1 Search for markets by location, SNAP access, and more in ASAP's online Local Food Guide at The Gorge Zipline is open near Saluda, N.C. Billed as one of the steepest, fastest zipline canopy tours in the US, The Gorge launches visitors on a steep descent into the world famous Green River Gorge on a series of 11 ziplines, three rappels, and a gravity-defying skybridge. For more information, visit or call 828-373-2580. Spring Toddler Takeover: Farmyard Fun is 10:30 a.m. – noon at Weaver Park. The event is free but registration is requested. Visit Gaspard&Dancers, Student Series is at 10 a.m. at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. This renowned dance company, known for its works of haunting beauty and emotional force, dares to find out – and to inspire students to wonder the same. Recommended for grades 6–12. The Student Series is open to school groups, homeschoolers, community groups and families. The cost is $12 each, reservations for groups (10 or more) $11 each. The Appalachian Heritage Festival is in downtown Waynesville, North Carolina. It includes live music, hands-on demonstrations, a True Crime Trail, The Quilt Trails Bus Tour and more. For details, visit Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend is in Hendersonville. The event includes tastings, tours, live music, special releases, food pairings and dinners. For a full schedule of more than 60 events, both free and ticketed, and lodging options, call 828-693-9708 or visit KidSenses presents the film 'Always Above' with show times from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tickets will be available the day of the event at the front desk of KidSenses Children's Museum on a first come, first served basis, as seating is limited. The presentation will occur off site at The Hut (271 N. Toms St., Rutherfordton), a few blocks from the museum by Kiwanis Park. For details, visit Jurassic Quest is open noon – 6 p.m. at the Greenville Convention Center. The event features a herd of life-like moving and roaring dinosaurs, themed rides and attractions, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities including a giant fossil dig, real fossils, a 'Triceratots' soft play area for little explorers, photo opportunities, a newly launched video tour featuring dinosaur trainers and more. Advance online ticket purchase is recommended. General admission includes live shows, arts and crafts activities and dinosaur exhibits. Tickets for individual activities are available on site. Free entry for children under 2. Kids' Ultimate Tickets include admission, all-you-can-ride access to dinosaur rides, inflatables, fossil dig and more. For details and tickets, visit XP League hosts Parents' Night Out from 5 – 9 p.m. For details and registration, visit The Blue Ridge Orchestra's 25th Anniversary Season Finale, part of the Asheville Symphony Orchestra's bi-annual festival. 'The Art of Storytelling,' is at 7 p.m. at UNC Asheville's Lipinsky Auditorium. Tickets – general admission: $20, Friends of the Orchestra: $15, students: $5 and children 6 and under are admitted free. For tickets and details, visit or call 828-782-3354. 'Into the Woods' is presented at 7:30 p.m. at Asheville Community Theatre. For tickets, visit Gaspard&Dancers perform at 8 p.m. at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $65 each for adults and $22 each for ages 15 and younger. Visit Bank of America's 'Museums On Us' program allows cardholders free admission to Asheville Museum of Science today. For details, visit Jurassic Quest is open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. at the Greenville Convention Center. The event features a herd of life-like moving and roaring dinosaurs, themed rides and attractions, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities including a giant fossil dig, real fossils, a 'Triceratots' soft play area for little explorers, photo opportunities, a newly launched video tour featuring dinosaur trainers and more. Advance online ticket purchase is recommended. General admission includes live shows, arts and crafts activities and dinosaur exhibits. Tickets for individual activities are available on site. Free entry for children under 2. Kids' Ultimate Tickets include admission, all-you-can-ride access to dinosaur rides, inflatables, fossil dig and more. For details and tickets, visit The Appalachian Heritage Festival is in downtown Waynesville, North Carolina. It includes live music, hands-on demonstrations, a True Crime Trail, The Quilt Trails Bus Tour and more. For details, visit Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend is in Hendersonville. The event includes tastings, tours, live music, special releases, food pairings and dinners. For a full schedule of more than 60 events, both free and ticketed, and lodging options, call 828-693-9708 or visit The Berries & Blooms Spring Festival is 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. at The Ten Acre Garden in Canton, North Carolina. For details, visit Star Wars Day is 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (drop in all day) at the Oakley/South Asheville Library. For details, visit Heritage Craft Day is noon – 6 p.m. at The North Carolina Arboretum, part of the Spring Into the Arb series. Spring Into the Arb events and programs are included with the regular parking fee of $20 per vehicle. Arboretum Society Members get in free. Visit 'Into the Woods' is presented at 2:30 p.m. at Asheville Community Theatre. For tickets, visit Gaspard&Dancers perform at 8 p.m. at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $65 each for adults and $22 each for ages 15 and younger. Visit Girls on the Run Spring Season Celebratory 5K is 8 – 11 a.m. at Tanger Outlets Asheville. For details and registration, visit Bank of America's 'Museums On Us' program allows cardholders free admission to Asheville Museum of Science today. For details, visit Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend is in Hendersonville. The event includes tastings, tours, live music, special releases, food pairings and dinners. For a full schedule of more than 60 events, both free and ticketed, and lodging options, call 828-693-9708 or visit Jurassic Quest is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Greenville Convention Center. The event features a herd of life-like moving and roaring dinosaurs, themed rides and attractions, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities including a giant fossil dig, real fossils, a 'Triceratots' soft play area for little explorers, photo opportunities, a newly launched video tour featuring dinosaur trainers and more. Advance online ticket purchase is recommended. General admission includes live shows, arts and crafts activities and dinosaur exhibits. Tickets for individual activities are available on site. Free entry for children under 2. Kids' Ultimate Tickets include admission, all-you-can-ride access to dinosaur rides, inflatables, fossil dig and more. For details and tickets, visit Spring in Bloom experiential event, celebrating mothers, women and the vibrant spirit of the season is 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Tanger Asheville. The event will include make-your-own flower bouquets, photo opportunities, giveaways and more. The family-friendly event, open to the community and free to attend, will be held in the center circle near the Vera Bradley Outlet Store. To learn more, visit Fraggle Rock LIVE, the first ever Fraggle Rock Live Touring Show, is presented at 1 p.m. at the Peace Center. Presented by The Jim Henson Company, the show will feature the iconic Fraggles and other favorite characters from the show, as well as new characters in an interactive, live musical adventure perfect for all ages. For tickets and details, visit Tiny Tykes Day, a free festival designed for children ages 5 and younger, is 2 – 5 p.m. at Southside Community Center (285 Livingston St.). The event includes visits with APD and AFD, face painting, inflatables, train rides, balloon twisters, strolling magic shows, visits from Ted E. Tourist and APR's Ranger the Racoon, a bike course and interactive booths hosted by community partners. For details, visit 'Into the Woods' is presented at 2:30 p.m. at Asheville Community Theatre. For tickets, visit Indie Game Playground is hosted by 3D Dojo Studios from 3 – 6 p.m. at Hatch Coworking. Kids (and adults) can play locally developed VR and PC indie video games. Meet the developers and learn about game creation. The event includes a cosplay contest in honor of the debut video game DA PAPER BOY, as well as free food, music and classic board and card games. For details and RSVP, visit The Blue Ridge Orchestra's 25th Anniversary Season Finale, part of the Asheville Symphony Orchestra's bi-annual festival. 'The Art of Storytelling,' is at 3 p.m. at UNC Asheville's Lipinsky Auditorium. Tickets – general admission: $20, Friends of the Orchestra: $15, students: $5 and children 6 and under are admitted free. For tickets and details, visit or call 828-782-3354. Asheville Symphony Youth Orchestra's Spring Concert is at 6:30 p.m. at Asheville High School. This performance will feature all ensembles alongside the Grammy and Emmy award-winning Time for Three (TF3). Tickets are available at ASYO Spring Concert 2025. More information about TF3 is at A morning bird walk is at 8 a.m. at Highlands Nature Center. The program is weather dependent. For details, visit Tiny Tots Yoga is at 11 a.m. at the Swannanoa Library. Register online. Visit Read to a Dog from 4 – 5 p.m. at the East Asheville Library. All participants must register and sign a waiver to take part. Register in person, call the library at 828-250-4738 or email Puppet Playtime is 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the East Asheville Library. Parental supervision required. Call 828-250-4738 or email Peter and the Wolfgang: A Music & Movement Story with Ms. Monique & Ms. Joy is at 10:30 a.m. at Pack Memorial Library. For details, visit Tot Time is 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Asheville Museum of Art. Cost is $10 and includes admission. Free for children younger than 6. Take an Express Tour of the galleries, then go on an adventure with art, music, or storytelling in the museum's interactive Art PLAYce. This program is for children ages 5 and younger and their families or caregivers. Tours will meet in the museum atrium and begin at 11:30 a.m. Arrive no later than 11:25 a.m. to allow enough time to check in. Strollers are welcome, and a limited number of strollers will be available on site for visitor use. Visitors are invited to spend more time exploring Art PLAYce, the galleries and Perspective Cafe after Tot Time concludes at 12:30 p.m. Space is limited; online registration is recommended. Drop-in registration is first come, first served. For details, visit Spring Toddler Takeover: Water World is 10:30 a.m. – noon at Malvern Hills Park. The event is free but registration is requested. Visit Reptile & Amphibian Encounters is at 4 p.m. at the Saluda Library. Join an educational program with the North Carolina Arboretum to learn all about the many different herptiles that call Western North Carolina their home. Hear about the ecoEXPLORE program, find out what distinguishes herptiles from other animals, where they live, what they eat, how they breathe and more. Visit Artisphere is in downtown Greenville. The festival includes Kidsphere at Artisphere with opportunities for kids to create. New for 2025, the Reuse Regatta: Test your best designs for a floating wind-powered boat, and square off for weekend bragging rights. Other activities include Tinkering Toddlers, a crawlable, stroller-friendly area stocked with toddler-appropriate manipulatives, Box Town, an eco-friendly creation station, rainbow wall, masks and hats and more. For a full schedule of events, visit Celebrate Children's Book Week at the Children's Book Fair from 4 – 5:30 p.m. at the Enka-Candler Library. For details, visit Pink Dog Creative Gallery presents "Tea in the Tempest" May 9 – June 8. An opening reception is 5 – 8 p.m. May 9. The exhibition is a powerful collaborative exhibition by mixed media artist Heather Divoky and textile artist Emelie Weber Wade. In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact on Western North Carolina, Divoky and Wade have come together to process their shared experiences through art. Visit Mommy, Me, and GENIE is 6 – 9 p.m. at KidSenses. The event includes crafts, themed activities and more. Included with admission. For details, visit 'Annie' is presented by Asheville Performing Arts Academy at 7 p.m. at Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and details, visit Movies in the Park: 'Moana 2' is at Pack Square. The movie will begin about 8:25 p.m. For full details, visit The 'Whole Bloomin' Thing' Spring Festival is in downtown Waynesville. Celebrate spring with plants, food, music and artisan wares. For details, visit Celebrate National Public Gardens Day at The North Carolina Arboretum, part of the Spring Into the Arb series. Spring Into the Arb events and programs are included with the regular parking fee of $20 per vehicle. Arboretum Society Members get in free. Visit Celebrate National Train Day with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City, North Carolina. For details, events and tickets, visit Junior Wild Walk is at 9:30 a.m. at WNC Nature Center. Tickets are $15-25 each. Kids will meet an animal ambassador, take a peek behind the scenes, and step into the shoes of animal keepers by helping to prepare and deliver enrichment for animals during this immersive experience. This program is for children ages 5-12. An adult is required to attend with the children in a group. Tickets include admission for the day and a 10% discount coupon for the gift shop valid only for the day of the event. Visit The River Arts District presents RAD Renaissance from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The event is a celebration of art, resilience and renewal. Throughout the Upper RAD (Roberts Street, Artful Way, Clingman Avenue and Depot Street), attendees will experience: Opportunities to meet and support working artists Live painting, artist demonstrations, and interactive art classes Music and storytelling performances across multiple locations Pop-up food trucks and local restaurants, cafés, breweries, and bars Community flower stations to help restore the beauty of the RAD. This event also marks the debut of the RAD Art Market, a weekly marketplace at Pinegate Renewables' parking lot, dedicated to giving displaced artists a vital platform to showcase and sell their work. Visit The 4th Annual Boho Hippie Festival is in Maggie Valley. For details, visit Makerspace: Puppet Making is 1 – 4 p.m. at Asheville Art Museum. Free for members or included with museum admission. Registration is not required. This is a drop-in art activity led by museum staff. Participants will be invited to create an artwork of their own inspired by on-view exhibitions. For details, visit 'Annie' is presented by Asheville Performing Arts Academy at 2 and 7 p.m. at Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and details, visit Artisphere is in downtown Greenville. The festival includes Kidsphere at Artisphere with opportunities for kids to create. New for 2025, the Reuse Regatta: Test your best designs for a floating wind-powered boat, and square off for weekend bragging rights. Other activities include Tinkering Toddlers, a crawlable, stroller-friendly area stocked with toddler-appropriate manipulatives, Box Town, an eco-friendly creation station, rainbow wall, masks and hats and more. For a full schedule of events, visit The 4th Annual Boho Hippie Festival is in Maggie Valley. For details, visit 'Annie' is presented by Asheville Performing Arts Academy at 2 p.m. at Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and details, visit Artisphere is in downtown Greenville. The festival includes Kidsphere at Artisphere with opportunities for kids to create. New for 2025, the Reuse Regatta: Test your best designs for a floating wind-powered boat, and square off for weekend bragging rights. Other activities include Tinkering Toddlers, a crawlable, stroller-friendly area stocked with toddler-appropriate manipulatives, Box Town, an eco-friendly creation station, rainbow wall, masks and hats and more. For a full schedule of events, visit Monday, May 12 Read to a Dog from 4 – 5 p.m. at the East Asheville Library. All participants must register and sign a waiver to take part. Register in person, call the library at 828-250-4738 or email Puppet Playtime is 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the East Asheville Library. Parental supervision required. Call 828-250-4738 or email Spring Toddler Takeover: Mystery Mania is 10:30 a.m. – noon at Murphy-Oakley Park. The event is free but registration is requested. Visit Teen Craft Time is at 4 p.m. at the Henderson County Main Library. Grades 6-12 can learn some basic stitching and sew a corner bookmark to keep. No experience necessary, supplies will be provided. Call 828-697-4725 for more information. ecoEXPLORE Herpetology Season is 3 – 4 p.m. at Highlands Nature Center. Ages 5-14 and accompanying adults. The program is free. No registration is required. For details, visit Parents and kids are invited to a free Family Bootcamp 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Reuter Family Y. Children ages 5 and older are welcome. This class is open to the public. Visit Nature Play Day is 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The North Carolina Arboretum, part of the Spring Into the Arb series. Spring Into the Arb events and programs are included with the regular parking fee of $20 per vehicle. Arboretum Society Members get in free. Visit Musical May Kids' Night Out is 6 – 10 p.m. at Asheville Sun Soo Martial Arts. It features crafts, games, a movie and pizza. For elementary ages. Open to the public. Register online at For parents: The Asheville Art Museum presents its 2025 Gala Live Auction & Dinner. For tickets and details, visit Open house at YMCA Camp Watia is 2 – 4 p.m. Walk the grounds, meet the staff and get a taste of what overnight camp is all about. The open house includes guided tours of the camp, activities for kids and a Q&A session with the camp team. No RSVP needed. Learn more at Celebrate Healthy Aging Day with YMCA of WNC from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Corpening Memorial Y in Marion. Presented by Hopscotch Primary Care, this free community event is perfect for grandparents and grandchildren to enjoy together. The day will feature group exercise classes, pickleball, informative lectures, free health screenings, vendor booths, free food and drinks and giveaways. Learn more at Chimney Rock State Park presents Rockin' Reptiles and Epic Amphibians at 4 p.m. at the Etowah Library. All ages are invited to learn the differences between reptiles and amphibians and meet some live animal friends. Registration is required for this free event, register online at or call 828-891-6577. Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit Tiny Tots Yoga is at 11 a.m. at the Swannanoa Library. Register online. Visit Read to a Dog from 4 – 5 p.m. at the East Asheville Library. All participants must register and sign a waiver to take part. Register in person, call the library at 828-250-4738 or email Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit Puppet Playtime is 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the East Asheville Library. Parental supervision required. Call 828-250-4738 or email Experiencing Nature is 3 – 4 p.m. at Highlands Nature Center. All ages. The program is free and is weather dependent. No registration is required. Join Maddie Wikstrom, Education Specialist, for a Nature Walk that offers three different approaches for ways to experience and connect with nature. Attendees will experience what can be revealed to us through Sit Spots, a Silent Hike, and reflective drawing. For details, visit Spring Toddler Takeover: Superheroes is 10:30 a.m. – noon at West Asheville Park. The event is free but registration is requested. Visit Nature Center Drawing Club is 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at Highlands Nature Center. All ages. The program is free and is weather dependent. No registration is required. For details, visit Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit Asheville Junior Theater Presents 'Guys and Dolls JR.' — A Dinner Theater Experience. For details and tickets, visit Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice opens today at the Upcountry History Museum. The exhibit continues through Sept. 21. Encounter unfamiliar landscapes, touchable dinosaurs and opportunities to investigate clues about what the dinosaurs left behind. The exhibit, designed for ages 3-10, is the first child-centered exhibit dedicated to expanding the understanding of dinosaur habitat and range. The bilingual (Spanish and English) exhibit features three distinct sections that build on a child's innate curiosity about dinosaurs: Land of Fire (a warm dinosaur habitat), Land of Ice (a cold dinosaur habitat), and a Field Research Station (complete with a Big Dig experience). For details, visit Asheville Blue Ridge Rose Society Rose Exhibit is 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at The North Carolina Arboretum, part of the Spring Into the Arb series. Spring Into the Arb events and programs are included with the regular parking fee of $20 per vehicle. Arboretum Society Members get in free. Visit The 2nd Annual Steppin' Into Spring Festival is 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. in Waynesville. The event includes live music, food and local makers. For details, visit Tiny Worlds of the Appalachian Mountains: Artist Talk & Gallery Opening with Rosalie Haizlett is 6 – 7 p.m. at The North Carolina Arboretum, part of the Spring Into the Arb series. Spring Into the Arb events and programs are included with the regular parking fee of $20 per vehicle. Arboretum Society Members get in free. Book signing to follow with books available for purchase from Malaprops Bookstore. Visit Asheville Junior Theater Presents 'Guys and Dolls JR.' — A Dinner Theater Experience. For details and tickets, visit Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit Asheville Blue Ridge Rose Society Rose Exhibit is 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at The North Carolina Arboretum, part of the Spring Into the Arb series. Spring Into the Arb events and programs are included with the regular parking fee of $20 per vehicle. Arboretum Society Members get in free. Visit Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit Monday, May 26 Read to a Dog from 4 – 5 p.m. at the East Asheville Library. All participants must register and sign a waiver to take part. Register in person, call the library at 828-250-4738 or email St. Gerard House will host a Family Group Night from 5 – 7 p.m. in Hendersonville. The evening includes complimentary childcare and dinner. Register at 'The Little Mermaid' Preview with Asheville Community Theater is at 6 p.m. at the Pack Memorial Library. Registration is required. Visit Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit Puppet Playtime is 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the East Asheville Library. Parental supervision required. Call 828-250-4738 or email Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit The Spring Market and Plant Sale is 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at The North Carolina Arboretum, part of the Spring Into the Arb series. Spring Into the Arb events and programs are included with the regular parking fee of $20 per vehicle. Arboretum Society Members get in free. Visit Asheville Junior Theater Presents 'Guys and Dolls JR.' — A Dinner Theater Experience. For details and tickets, visit Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit Grandfather by Night: Twilight Hike is at Grandfather Mountain. Times vary. Explore the mountain after hours with guides. Discover some of the park's nighttime wonders and watch a stunning sunset (weather permitting). Hike after sunset to discuss and look for the creatures that are more active after the sun goes down. The group will explore a unique forest ecosystem from top to bottom in search of salamanders, owls, flying squirrels, fireflies and any other creatures they might come across. The Twilight Hike program is not accessible to guests with limited mobility. Participants signed up for this version will need to participate in the hike, as staying behind while the rest of the group hikes is not possible. Advance registration required. For details, visit The Spring Market and Plant Sale is 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at The North Carolina Arboretum, part of the Spring Into the Arb series. Spring Into the Arb events and programs are included with the regular parking fee of $20 per vehicle. Arboretum Society Members get in free. Visit StarryTime is at 10:30 a.m. at the Enka-Candler Library. Educators share their talents by guest-starring as story time hosts. This program is designed for families with children of all ages. Visit A Day of Love is 1 – 2:30 p.m. at the Center for Spiritual Living Asheville. For details, visit Young Readers Series with Jennifer Sims at The Hop on Merrimon – Drop in from 2 – 4 p.m. at The Hop Ice Cream (& Pop Bubble Tea), 640 Merrimon Ave. The book is recommended for ages 3 – 6. Visit and for details. Asheville Junior Theater Presents 'Guys and Dolls JR.' — A Dinner Theater Experience. For details and tickets, visit Blue Ghost Firefly Tours are at the Cradle of Forestry in America. This is a ticketed event. Tours begin with an informative session at the outdoor amphitheater, where guests will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of the Blue Ghost Firefly. Following the presentation, visitors will hike along a paved trail through the forest, at their own pace, where they'll have the chance to observe these enchanting creatures up close. For tickets and details, visit Auditions for the Asheville Symphony Youth Orchestra's 2025-2026 season are May 29 – 30 for winds and percussion and May 31 and June 1 for strings. ASYO members receive high-quality music instruction from some of the region's most respected conductors and musicians, as well as opportunities to perform throughout the community. More than just a musical experience, ASYO fosters discipline, confidence and a deep appreciation for the arts. Opportunities are available for students from beginner string players to advanced high-school musicians. For more details or to register for auditions, visit Buncombe County 4-H offers free and low cost programs for youth ages 5-18. Exploring 4-H Club meets once per month. At each club meeting, youth will explore a different 4-H topic, including STEM, cooking & nutrition, outdoor activities and more. For details, visit Summer camp programs are also available. Visit for more information. Homeschool Group Field Trip Discounts, Weekdays through May 30 at Adventure Center of Asheville – Choose one or more adventure activities for ages 4 and older: Asheville Treetops Adventure Park (ages 4+), KidZip (ages 4-10), Kolo Bike Park (all ages who can ride a mountain bike). Reservations are required. Call 828-225-2921 or visit Parents Night Out – The Y offers several fun, affordable, and entertaining childcare options, including Kids Club, Parents Night Out, and Parents Morning Out. Drop-off childcare is open to the public. Click here to learn more and find your program. Winchester Creek Farm offers tours of a 20-acre property where visitors have the opportunity to meet some of the animals such as alpacas, mini horses, donkeys and cows that make up their family. Wheels Through Time invites families to explore its expansive collection of more than 350 American motorcycles, vehicles and rare memorabilia. Story Time is at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays at the Columbus Library. This program is designed for ages 2-5 and features books, songs, and a fun craft or activity. Visit Summer dates may differ due to summer reading program events. Story Times are offered at Henderson County Public Libraries. Get full details at There will be no story times the last two weeks of May. Summer dates may differ due to summer reading program events. Mills River and Edneyville (families welcome) – 10 a.m. Mondays Etowah (families welcome) – 10 a.m. Tuesdays Preschool story time at Main (ages 3 – 5) – 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays Fletcher (families welcome) and Toddler Time at Main (ages 18 months – 3) – 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays Green River (families welcome) – 10 a.m. Thursdays Music and Movement at Main (families welcome) – 10:30 a.m. Thursdays Bouncing Babies at Main (ages birth – 18 months with a caregiver) – 11:15 a.m. Thursdays Story times are offered at Buncombe County Libraries. Get full details at Summer dates may differ due to summer reading program events. Baby Story Time – ages 4 – 18 months: Oakley/South Asheville Library – Friday at 10:30 a.m. Leicester Library – Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Weaverville Library – Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. Toddler Story Time – ages 18 months – 3 years: North Asheville Library – Friday at 10:30 a.m. Fairview Library and Leicester Library – Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Enka-Candler Library – Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Preschool Story Time – ages 3 – 5 years: East Asheville Library and West Asheville Library – Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Swannanoa Library – Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Fairview Library – Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Black Mountain Library and Weaverville Library – Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Pack Memorial Library – Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. Hora Del Cuento/Story Time Skyland/South Buncombe Library – Friday at 10:30 a.m. Oakley/South Asheville Library – Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Dolly Parton's Imagination Library impacts the pre-literacy skills and school readiness of children under the age of 5 in Buncombe County. The program mails a new, free, age-appropriate book to registered children each month until they turn 5 years old, creating a home library of up to 60 books and instilling a love of books and reading. For details and registration, visit Nantahala Outdoor Center offers adventure trips. For details, visit Babies Need Bottoms Diaper Bank: If your family needs diapers, call 2-1-1 for assistance with this and other resources. To help end diaper need in WNC, Babies Need Bottoms need volunteers to prepare diaper bundles, pick up from collection boxes, host diaper drives and more. Do you have leftover diapers? Donate them in collection boxes. Learn more at Supporting youth mental health – The Y offers free, two-day Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) trainings every month. These trainings help to equip family members, caregivers, teachers, and other caring citizens with tools to build resilience, foster meaningful connections, and support mental health in our community. Find training dates here. Free food distribution – The YMCA of Western North Carolina distributes free, fresh produce and practical cooking tips at mobile food markets each month. All are welcome, no questions asked. Click here to learn more and find this month's schedules. Community Connections: Free Parenting Resource meets each month at We Rock the Spectrum Asheville. Ask questions, talk and build community. For challenges with toddlerhood, potty training, socialization, school or learning, challenging behaviors, wanting to increase connectivity to others, and experiences, supporting meaningful communication, etc. Register at Perinatal Loss Support Group – Homegrown Families Perinatal Bereavement Parent Support Group is for families who have experienced the loss of a baby through miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth or newborn death. For details, visit The Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) is an evidence-based program that gives parents confidence and in turn, helps them raise confident children. Local parents and caregivers have access to this free, positive parenting course online. Access Triple P resources at or This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Your guide to May's family friendly events – here's what to know
