Happy Wednesday, Buncombe County.

The social battery is either feeling ready or still charging, and both are perfectly acceptable. This week’s lineup works well either way, with a mix of outings that feel purposeful and others that don’t require much planning at all.

Below, you’ll find what’s happening around town so you can scan, choose what fits your energy, and move on with your day with a big smile.

In today’s edition:

Let’s get to it.

— Sean Kolina

Sometimes a night out is better when the plan is already made for you, and this one checks all the boxes. The Acting Company is bringing A Midsummer Night’s Dream to the Diana Wortham Theatre for a one night performance that feels equal parts classic and fun. Even if Shakespeare is not usually your thing, this play is lively, playful, and very easy to enjoy.

It works beautifully as a Friday night plan because you can pair it with dinner downtown and turn it into a full evening without overthinking it. If January has felt a little repetitive, this is a great way to change things up and do something that will be memorable. Grab tickets ahead of time and make a night of it!

📍 Where: Diana Wortham Theatre, Asheville
📅 When: Friday, January 23 at 8:00 pm
💲 Price: Around $65 plus fees

Get Tickets

Some weeks just call for a good laugh, and this is a solid option. Joe List brings a fully seated comedy show to The Orange Peel, which makes for a comfortable and easy night out. Comedy is especially great in the cold when you want something entertaining and will warm your belly laughing up. This works well as a spontaneous plan with friends or a simple date night idea that does not require much coordination. Grab tickets, show up, and let someone else do the talking for a change.

📍 Where: The Orange Peel
📅 When: Thursday, January 22 at 8:00 pm
💲 Price: Ticketed

Get Tickets

If you have not checked in on Enka Candler lately, now is a great time. Two new local spots have recently opened and are already giving the area a little extra food buzz. Ocha Thai brings comforting Thai favorites with bold flavors that work just as well for takeout as they do for a relaxed dine in meal. Nearby, Scratch Ankle Fillin' Station offers great drinks, good food, and even better company in a laid back setting. Together, these openings make Enka Candler an easy choice for a weeknight dinner when you want something new without heading downtown.

This concert is a lovely reminder of how much talent lives right here. The instructors concert at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts features musicians who not only teach but truly love performing. The setting is intimate, the ticket price is fair, and the experience feels personal in the best way. It is an easy evening plan that works well for music lovers or anyone looking for something cultural without a big production. Pair it with dinner in Black Mountain and you have a relaxed, local night out.

📍 Where: Black Mountain Center for the Arts
📅 When: Saturday, January 24 at 7:30 pm
💲 Price: $20

Get Tickets

Midweek plans do not have to be complicated to be good. The Weaverville Tailgate Market brings local farmers and makers together in a cozy winter setup that makes it easy to stop by after work. Expect baked goods, pantry staples, seasonal produce, and friendly conversations that feel very small town in the best way. This is a great quick outing if you want to support local businesses, pick up a few treats, and feel connected to the community without committing your whole evening.

📍 Where: Weaverville Community Center
📅 When: Wednesday, January 21 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
💲 Price: Free to browse

View Vendors

Driving through this stone gate feels like stepping into a quieter chapter of Buncombe County. The Montreat Gate marks the entrance to the historic mountain community of Montreat and has welcomed visitors for generations. Built in the early twentieth century, it was designed to signal a transition from everyday life into a place centered around reflection, learning, and nature. Even if you do not venture far beyond the gate, it is worth the short drive to see the craftsmanship and soak in the calm surroundings. Pair it with a walk through Montreat or a coffee stop in Black Mountain for an easy, yet historic outing.

If choosing where to eat has felt harder than it should lately, this makes the decision easy. Asheville Restaurant Week is officially underway, with dozens of local restaurants offering special menus and thoughtfully priced options for a limited time. It is a great excuse to finally try a place you have bookmarked or revisit a favorite without overthinking it.

📍 Where: Asheville and surrounding areas
📅 When: January 20 through January 26

View Participating Restaurants

💡 The name “Buncombe” comes from Edward Buncombe, a Revolutionary War colonel.

😋 Weekly Appalachian inspired recipe: Cornbread. Delicious cornbread baked in cast iron. Recipe

🎶 Who we are listening to: Never Be Yours - My Ugly Clementine - Beautiful blend of indie and folk influences with gentle rhythms.

🎁 Local small business highlight: Moonlight Makers - your go-to for hilarious and unique gifts! From quirky home decor and witty apparel to fun accessories.

👩‍🌾 Favorite Farms: Hickory Nut Gap - This working mountain farm is just 20 minutes from downtown Asheville and has plenty of things for curious visitors to see and do. They raise grass-fed beef and pasture-raised pork and poultry. More Info

🙏 Positive News: Veteran Becomes First Double-Amputee to Climb Highest Peak on Every Continent: Conquering the 7 Summits. Read Article

✨ Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.

As always, we read every reply and truly appreciate hearing from you. If there’s something you’d like to see more of locally, let us know. Thanks for being part of the Buncombe County Digest community.