Win a Breathtaking Bryson City Giveaway
Celebrate spring's return at North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville with plant shows, nature programs, music, art, and outdoor activities throughout March, April, May, and June. From orchids to bonsai, family days to science festivals, the Arboretum welcomes the season with events that are great for families, friends, and couples. Many events have no charge, but there is a parking fee (fee waived for members). Check the Arboretum's website for details on each event.
Asheville Nature Play Day: March 14, 2026
Nature Play Day provides opportunities for children and families to connect through exploring and playing outdoors together. The Arboretum's gardens and trails are your playground for the day. March 14, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Asheville Orchid Festival: March 28–29, 2026
The Western North Carolina Orchid Society and the Arboretum host the 25th annual Asheville Orchid Festival "Orchid Kingdom." This American Orchid Society sanctioned judging event features spectacular orchid displays, plants and supplies for sale, and expert presentations.
Music in the Mountains Day: April 4, 2026
Enjoy live music by local musicians surrounded by gardens and beautiful mountain vistas. Bring a blanket and spend the day with mountain music and spring blooms. April 4, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Arbor Day Celebration: April 11, 2026
Honor the value and roles that trees play in our lives and ecosystems. Learn how to protect and nurture the trees in your yard and community through demonstrations and activities. April 11, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Native Azalea Day: April 18, 2026
Celebrate and experience azaleas through the eyes of plant enthusiasts, botanists, and artists. Watch plein air artists capture the scene, join walking tours of the garden's azalea collection, and participate in hands-on activities for children and adults. April 18, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Mountain Science Expo 2026: April 25
This free STEM-oriented science festival invites you to interact with scientists, explore nature, and grow your curiosity. Perfect for families and anyone interested in mountain science. April 25, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
World Bonsai Day: May 9, 2026
The internationally acclaimed Bonsai Exhibition Garden opens for the season with trees filling the benches for the first time since fall. See a live demonstration from Curator Arthur Joura and have your questions answered by Blue Ridge Bonsai Society members. May 9, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
Change of Seasons: Spring Into Ikebana: May 16–17, 2026
The Ikebana International Asheville Chapter presents an exhibition of ikebana, the disciplined Japanese art of floral arrangement. These expressive designs reflect harmony between humanity and nature through intentional use of line, color, space, contrast, and texture.
The Asheville-Blue Ridge Rose Society Exhibition: May 22–24, 2026
The Annual Rose Exhibition is a series that showcases fragrant, WNC-grown roses including rare and beautiful blooms from the region's most admired gardens. Discover lovely easy-care varieties perfect for your own garden. Friday 2:00 PM–4:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Spring Plant Sale and Market: May 29–30, 2026
Shop an outstanding collection of annuals, perennials, and crafts grown in the Arboretum's Production Greenhouse. Over 30 local growers and businesses participate, with live music throughout the event. Saturday features a Kids Corner with crafts. Rain or shine.
Bonsai in the Blue Ridge: June 4–7, 2026
More than fifty curated bonsai displays showcase the refined artistry of shaping trees into living sculpture. Public entry $5, with additional opportunities to register for seminars, workshops, and tours led by nationally recognized bonsai artists. Thursday 5:00 PM–7:00 PM, Friday–Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Visitors are encouraged to explore the Arboretum’s kaleidoscope of spring color, 65 acres of cultivated gardens, 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, engaging exhibits, and bountiful opportunities to connect with nature.
For more information for visiting, see our NC Arboretum Guide.
NC Arboretum, Asheville
The Arboretum offers a variety of unique experiences while children discover the wonders of nature in a safe, enriching environment. Rent Discovery Backpacks, available for kids to use with tools…
Annual Membership, NC Arboretum
Receive many wonderful benefits and save with an annual membership to the North Carolina Arboretum Society. Attend special events and educational programs and receive benefits such as free… More Information
