Happening this Weekend: Nov 6th-9th

Your weekend guide to the best events across Western North Carolina—November 6 through November 9.

Thursday, November 6, 2025

Bryson City, Swain County: Opening day of the Polar Express. Embrace the magic of Christmas on board THE POLAR EXPRESS™! This 1¼ hour round-trip journey to the North Pole and back to Bryson City, NC comes to life with music, cocoa, treats, book reading, sing-a-longs, and Santa greets each child with the first gift of Christmas, a silver bell from his sleigh.

• Ticket prices start at $57.50
• 5 PM, 6:40 PM, and 8:20 PM 

Friday, November 7, 2025

Lake Lure, Jackson County: Fae Nectar's Medieval Market. Browse artisan vendors, mingle with fey characters, and hunt for treasures (like that wizard robe you've always wanted) at this craft market meets cosplay hangout. Costumes encouraged, all ages welcome.

• Free
• 4-10 PM

Black Mountain: Opening Reception of “Rising from the River” – A Solo Exhibition by Michelle Hamilton. Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W. State Street, Black Mountain, NC. Sponsored by GreyBeard Realty.

• Free
• 5:00–6:30 PM (Gallery hours: 10 AM-5 PM) 

Saturday, November 8, 2025

Brevard, Transylvania County: Yappy Hour at Weevil Gear & Beer. Bring your pup for Pacifico-sponsored dog fun! Meet adoptable dogs from Almost Home Dog Rescue, score free swag, and enjoy the dog-friendly beer garden with Pacifico specials.

• Free
• 12-4 PM 

Saluda, Polk County: Apiary Experience at The Orchard Inn. Suit up in full bee gear and tour live honey bee colonies—hold frames, spot the queen, inspect hives. Includes honey tasting, food pairing, and charcuterie lunch with wine or beer. Led by Sandy Bee Mine.

• $125 per person
• 10 AM-1 PM 

Sylva, Jackson County: WNC Pottery Festival. Browse work from over 40 master potters and watch live demonstrations of various techniques at this juried mountain arts tradition. Rain or shine. No dogs allowed.

• $5
• 10 AM-4 PM 

Sunday, November 9, 2025

Asheville, Cambria Hotel Downtown: Enjoy Cuban-inspired brunch with mountain views and live AppaLatin sounds bringing a taste of Havana to Asheville's rooftop at Hemingway’s Cuba Restaurant and Bar.

• Reservations suggested
• 12-2 PM 

Chimney Rock, Rutherford County: Climb the granite monolith for 75-mile panoramic views, hike to Hickory Nut Falls, and visit the Animal Discovery Den with the kids.

• Ticket prices vary
• Gate open: 8:30 AM
• Last admission: 4:30 PM
• Park closes: 6:00 PM