Weekend Events Bring Arts, Families and Adoptions to Asheville

Asheville and Western North Carolina will host a mix of music, family-friendly activities and community gatherings this weekend. On Saturday, Jan. 10, The Grey Eagle will present Asheville Crankie Fest, a celebration of musical performance and folk-art traditions that draws local artists and audiences to downtown Asheville. Also on Jan. 10 the reopened Biltmore Village McDonald’s will mark its grand reopening with a Family Day featuring mascot meet-and-greets, face painting and a raffle, creating an accessible, low-cost outing for families.

Animal welfare and community connection are central to a dog adoption event at River Arts District Brewing Company, scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday. The event offers residents an opportunity to adopt companion animals and supports local rescue groups while bringing foot traffic to a River Arts District business. On Sunday, Jan. 11 at 4 p.m., Zillicoah Beer Company will host its annual Christmas tree burn, an outdoor gathering that marks the end of the holiday-season decorations and draws neighborhood groups together.

Beyond those highlights, venues across Buncombe County will offer movie nights, music shows and family activities throughout the weekend, providing both free and ticketed options. Residents planning to attend should consult venue websites or ticketing platforms for specific start times and ticket availability.

These events have layered community implications. Local performances and brewery gatherings sustain small venues and hospitality workers during winter months, circulating dollars through neighborhood economies. Family-oriented events that are free or low-cost expand access to cultural life for households with limited resources, though uneven distribution of paid and free offerings means not all residents benefit equally.

Public health remains a practical consideration for winter weekend gatherings. Outdoor events like the tree burn typically present lower respiratory transmission risk than indoor concerts, but public health guidance continues to favor staying home when ill, practicing hand hygiene, and keeping up-to-date vaccinations for influenza and COVID-19 to protect vulnerable neighbors. Organizers and attendees should consider accessibility needs, including transportation and mobility accommodations, to ensure older adults and people with disabilities can participate safely.

For families, pet adopters and culture-seekers, this weekend offers multiple ways to connect locally while supporting artists, rescue groups and neighborhood businesses. Residents are encouraged to check venues for the latest information, plan travel time during busy hours, and take basic health precautions so community events remain welcoming and safe for everyone.