Events Calendar
Explore family friendly events, theatres, galleries, concerts, nightlife, things to do, and more in the Greenville, SC and Upstate areas.
Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.
With the convenience of being open year-round, 7 days a week, the WNC Farmers Market offers a selection of farm-fresh produce at the lowest prices in Western N.C. Our popular retail buildings, providing a selection of non-perishables, fruits, vegetables, crafts and more, are open daily.
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This tour begins at the very birthplace of Greenville—Falls Park. The same allure of the gorgeous 40-foot natural waterfall that casts a spell on Falls Park visitors today must have had the same impact on the first colonial settler, Richard Pearis, when he arrived in c.1769. Less than a handful of American cities can boast such a waterfall in the heart of downtown. Visitors receive a chronological history of our city beginning with a view of the falls from the newest icon of the city’s cityscape—the award-winning pedestrian Liberty Bridge. At the foundation walls of an 1816 grist mill built by Vardry McBee, guests will learn about the factors that caused this small trading post town to grow into the textile center of the world.
Other highlights of the tour include discussion of some of the oldest buildings still existing along the banks of the river, including the 1882 Huguenot Mill and the Gower, Cox and Markley Carriage factory buildings that are now used for dining and entertainment. On the other side of the river banks, visitors will soak in the magnificent features of the $137 million Riverplace development with its unique mix of restaurants, offices, condominiums, artists’ open studios, a 30-foot cascading waterfall feature, hotel and more.
A stroll back up Main St. into the West End discusses a famous Greenvillian, Charles Townes. This tour will give you a great overview of our city’s past but you’ll also hear about the exciting current projects that are adding to the downtown experience as well as future projects that are going to be transforming us into the future.
Highlights include:
• Ruins of an 1816 grist mill built by the “Father of Greenville”, Vardry McBee
• The 1882 Huguenot Mill – learn how Greenville became the “Textile Center of the World”
• The 1857 Gower, Cox and Markley Carriage factory building, once the largest carriage company in the South
• Riverplace – stroll the river walk while learning about the beautiful complex of fine restaurants, shopping, condos, open artist studios, and more overlooking the Reedy River that has sparked a revitalization of the Historic West End
• The bronze memorial to Charles Townes, a Greenvillian who became the inventor of the laser
Included with admission
Our fun-for-all-ages botanical model train displays invite you to experience our grounds in an engaging new way. Located in the Conservatory in the Walled Garden, the displays feature replicas of structures connected with Biltmore and its founder George Vanderbilt. Each beautifully executed piece was handcrafted from such natural elements as leaves, bark, and twigs.
In compliance with state and local mandates related to COVID-19, all guests must enter the Conservatory via the ADA entrance in the back and follow a one-way route.
Included with admission
A unique-to-Biltmore, large-scale outdoor sculpture will be crafted and installed in Antler Hill Village this spring by Patrick Dougherty. Over the last three decades, this internationally-acclaimed artist has combined his carpentry skills and love of nature to build over 300 of these wondrous works, captivating the hearts and imaginations of viewers worldwide.
Image: Close Ties (2006) Scottish Basketmakers Circle, Dingwall, Scotland. Photo: Fin Macrae
NOTE: This is an example of Patrick Dougherty’s work; the artist will create Biltmore’s unique structure in Antler Hill Village this spring.
Summer at Biltmore offers an abundance of opportunities to explore our 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain backyard and create the kind of memories that last a lifetime. Wander through historic gardens, along winding trails, and within the spacious halls of America’s Largest Home®. Enjoy extraordinary experiences and peace of mind in one spectacular setting: only at Biltmore.
As you may know, the leading cause of death for teens and children in the United States is not accident or communicable disease, but firearms. Here in Greenville, nearly every day’s news includes a tragic story on another death or injury. The conference will bring professionals in the fields of healthcare, including mental health, public safety, the judicial system, and public policy together with local youth and diverse stakeholders to address the devastation of gun violence. Our children’s future is not a partisan issue, and we welcome participants from across the political spectrum.
Expert speakers and panelists will discuss the underlying conditions and the toll of gun violence and propose solutions. Stakeholders including the faith community, educators, local nonprofits, and other concerned organizations and individuals will participate. The goals of the conference are to inform and to focus public attention on this epidemic, share the perspectives of young people threatened by gun violence, invite feedback and synthesize information from professionals and stakeholders, deliver a report of the conference to the public, and create a standing commission to work toward saving young lives. All are invited to attend. Admission is free, but advance registration is required. Both in-person and Zoom participation will be offered.
The bilingual exhibition (English and Spanish) is a unique and educational experience that emphasizes the importance of reading and the significance of fairy tales throughout history. From an African jungle to a giant’s castle, visitors explore larger-than-life pages of six of the world’s most famous fairy tales: Anansi and the Talking Melon (Ghana), Beauty and the Beast (France), Jack and the Beanstalk (England), Cinderella (France, China), The Elves and the Shoemaker (Germany), and Lon Po Po (aka: Little Red Riding Hood, China).
Entering the exhibit via a magical portal, visitors will be surrounded by an enchanting storybook kingdom. Each tale is brought to life through its own large-scale environment, interactive components, and costumes.
With six storybook settings designed for children ages 3-10 years old and their caregivers, Once Upon A Time will take traditional story time to a new interactive level. The result is a three-dimensional, fully developed world that resonates with young visitors, while still appealing to the grown-ups in their lives who are just as fond of the beloved stories that were a major part of their own childhood.
The bilingual exhibition (English and Spanish) is a unique and educational experience that emphasizes the importance of reading and the significance of fairy tales throughout history. From an African jungle to a giant’s castle, visitors explore larger-than-life pages of six of the world’s most famous fairy tales: Anansi and the Talking Melon (Ghana), Beauty and the Beast (France), Jack and the Beanstalk (England), Cinderella (France, China), The Elves and the Shoemaker (Germany), and Lon Po Po (aka: Little Red Riding Hood, China).
Entering the exhibit via a magical portal, visitors will be surrounded by an enchanting storybook kingdom. Each tale is brought to life through its own large-scale environment, interactive components, and costumes.
With seven storybook settings designed for children ages 3-10 years old and their caregivers, Once Upon A Time will take traditional story time to a new interactive level. The result is a three-dimensional, fully developed world that resonates with young visitors, while still appealing to the grown-ups in their lives who are just as fond of the beloved stories that were a major part of their own childhood.
“Shine and Dine” on the railway! We cordially invite you to hop on board The Carolina Shine, GSMR’s All-Adult First Class Moonshine Car! We will be proudly serving hand crafted, triple-distilled, craft moonshine. Some of the smoothest tasting moonshine in the Carolinas!
Offered on the Nantahala Gorge excursion, this shine and dine experience begins in a renovated First Class train fleet car, The Carolina Shine. The interior features copper lined walls filled with the history of moonshining in North Carolina. Learn about the proud tradition that the Appalachians established when bootlegging was an acceptable way of life and local home brews were the best in town. Read about Swain County’s very own Major Redmond, the most famous mountain moonshine outlaw of the 19th century.
Once your appetite for knowledge is satisfied, enjoy sample tastings of flavors like Apple Pie, Blackberry, Blueberry, Cherry, Peach, and Strawberry moonshine. If the samples are not enough, there will be plenty of Moonshine infused cocktails like Copper Cola or Moonshiner’s Mimosa available for purchase. GSMR is excited to feature multiple craft NC based distilleries to serve our guests only the best! Each jar is handcrafted and authentically infused with real fruit, the way moonshine was meant to be made. Passengers will also enjoy a full service All-Adult First Class ride with an attendant and a specialty boxed lunch. During the month of October. 9am and 2pm departures. 9am will feature the option of a delicious Sausage & Bacon Quiche or Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole. The 2pm departure will be serving the popular BBQ meal.
| Diesel | $109.00 ($114.00 October) | Not Permitted |
| Steam | $119.00 ($126.00 October) | Not Permitted |
| Locomotive | Adult (21+ Only) | Under 21 |
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How to Purchase
You can purchase your tickets online or call our reservations department at (800) 872-4681. Or, you can purchase your tickets the day of in the Bryson City Depot. No matter how you purchase tickets, they’ll be waiting at will call.
The International Chili Society (ICS) has announced that the Burroughs and Chapin Pavilion Place will be the official event site for the 54th Annual World Championship Chili Cook-Off (WCCC) in Myrtle Beach, S.C. From September 17-19, 2021, WCCC event organizers will transform this central location on Myrtle Beach’s Grand Strand into a chili lover’s paradise.
The event site will include numerous built-in activities such as a Family Fun Zone where guests can participate in family-friendly challenges; a relaxing beer garden that will offer an array of different craft and special brews; the main stage that will host a slew of activities, including a hot pepper eating contest and live music; and the ever-popular People’s Choice Chili Competition, which allows event attendees to sample and vote for numerous chili dishes.
WHO:
The World Championship Chili Cook-off
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a 54-year-old cook-off, founded by automotive racing legend Carroll Shelby
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now a full-fledged food fest and gracing the beaches of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for the first time in September 2021
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General Admission is FREE
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Music, entertainment, show cars, outdoor fun
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For only $15, attendees can taste any of the 500+ chili flavors and vote for their favorite!
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VIP upgrades are available. See tickets.
The Study Buddies Afterschool program is offered at four community centers throughout Greenville. The program runs Monday through Friday from 2:30-6 p.m. Participants will receive homework assistance, life skills development, recreational activities, educational projects, and much more. A healthy meal is provided daily for each participant. This program is open to students in K through 8th grade.
Registration is currently open for city of Greenville residents.
Participants in the Study Buddies Afterschool program will receive homework assistance, life skills development, recreational activities, educational projects, and much more. A healthy meal is provided daily. This program is open to students in 5K through 8th grade.
We are committed to providing our students a safe, enriching, and healthy afterschool experience. View Afterschool Health and Wellness Policy (PDF)
Dates: August 17, 2021 – June 1, 2022 *Program does not run when there is no school for holidays, half days, teacher work days, vacations, or snow days (following Greenville County School calendar).
Time: 2:30 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Fees: $585 for City Residents
Discounts for families registering two or more children. Payment plan available in 9 installments with the first initial payment due upon registration.
Financial Assistance: City of Greenville residents with documented financial need will automatically qualify for a reduced fee after school program. Qualified participants must complete the application and submit all required documentation to be eligible for the reduced fee. Financial aid will automatically be added to the participants online account after their application and documentation has been approved. Applications are available online (see below under documents) or in person at David Hellams Community Center or Bobby Pearse Community Center.
Financial assistance rates are $270 for the year. Sibling discounts do not apply to financial assistance rates.
Locations:
- Bobby Pearse Community Center (FULL)
- Elementary: Stone Academy
- Middle: League Middle
- David Hellams Community Center
- Elementary: East North Street
- Middle: Greenville Middle
- Nicholtown Community Center
- Elementary: Lake Forest
- Middle: Northwood Middle
- West Greenville Community Center
- Elementary: AJ Whittenberg (transportation will be provided)
- Middle: League
- Legacy Charter School also provides transportation to the Center
Bussing Directly From The School To The Community Center: The City of Greenville DOES NOT provide transportation from the school to the afterschool site. Parents are responsible for arranging school bus transportation and also letting the school know that their child will be attending this afterschool program.
GENERAL INFORMATION
- Refunds are not available after the first week of the program.
- Prior to August 17, Parent/Guardian must submit all completed parent consent forms.
DOCUMENTS
Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens and experience our Wild Art outdoor sculpture showcase in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! ArborEvenings runs Thursdays and most Fridays through October 1, 2021, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. ArborEvenings are not scheduled on the following Fridays: July 9, August 6, September 3 and 10.
There is no additional cost to attend ArborEvenings beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry). Proceeds from ArborEvenings help support the The North Carolina Arboretum Society and further advance the Arboretum’s mission.
Please note: ArborEvenings will not be held in the event of rain. Please check the website or Facebook page by 3 p.m. for any cancellation announcements prior to attending.
Beverage Service
Beer, Wine, and soft drinks will be for sale onsite at the Green Gardener’s Shed from 5:30 to 8:15 p.m. each night of the event. Outside alcohol is strictly prohibited, but guests are welcome to bring in water or a favorite non-alcoholic beverage.
Food Available for Pre-Order, Picnics Welcome
Although the Bent Creek Bistro will not be open during the event, we are pleased to share that they will be offering their delicious dining options at ArborEvenings via pre-order this year! Simply place your online order — including alcoholic beverages — up until 11 a.m. on the date you plan to attend, then pick up your order at the Baker Information Desk between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. (In the event of rain cancellation, pre-orders will be fully refunded.)
Guests are welcome to bring in outside food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Musician Schedule
Please note, scheduled performances are subject to change.
- Thursday 7/8 – Juan Holiday (R&B/Soul) will play from 5:30 – 6:45 p.m. & Jackson Grimm (Folk/Bluegrass) will play from 7:15 – 8:30 p.m.
- Friday 7/9 – No Event
- Thursday 7/15 – Liz & Elizabeth (Folk/Americana) will play from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
- Friday 7/16 – Kevin Williams (Country/Americana) will play from 5:30 – 6:45 p.m. & Steve Newbrough (Classical/Fingerstyle Guitar) will play from 7:15 – 8:30 p.m.Click here for the full schedule.
Know Before You Go
- Parking fees will be collected at the gate upon arrival, and members must present valid card for free entry. Pre-registration is not required.
- Restroom access will be available during ArborEvenings inside the Baker Visitor Center.
- Guests are invited to explore A Life in the Wild, a breathtaking exhibition of photographs from Thomas D. Mangelsen; however, food and drink are not permitted inside the Exhibit Hall.
- Leashed dogs are welcome at ArborEvenings, but are not permitted inside of buildings.
- To protect our lawn, blankets are not permitted at the event; however, guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs to set up in front of the musicians.
- Due to existing event bookings, ArborEvenings will not take place on the following Fridays: July 9, August 6 and September 3 and 10.
The Hartness Grand Lawn will come alive with an open-air market, entertainment and activities for everyone to enjoy. Fresh Fridays at Hartness features a variety of local farmers, specialty artisans, live music and more.
This event is free and open to the public. For more information visit hartnessliving.com and follow @HartnessLiving on Instagram and Facebook.
The music series will take place every Friday from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at NOMA Square, beginning July 9 and ending September 24. Throughout the season, attendees can enjoy a wide range of local entertainment, including rock-n-roll, pop, R&B and jazz.
“Greenville Heritage FCU is excited to begin its ninth year as the title sponsor of the Main Street Fridays concert series,” said Alan Berry, president/CEO of Greenville Heritage FCU. “We are so happy that the City has successfully navigated the challenges presented by COVID-19 and has found a way to give our community 12 wonderful evenings of live music and family fun at NOMA Square on the Hyatt stage.”
Additional event partners include Spinx, KW Beverage and Michelob Ultra, the Hyatt Regency Greenville, Penske, iHeart Media & MY 102.5, WYFF 4, Community Journals, BreakThru Beverage Group and Signatures Apparel.
For a complete entertainment lineup, visit gvilleevents.com or follow the event on social media.
Downtown trolleys add to the excitement and enjoyment of Greenville’s Main Street experience. The red and blue open-air trolleys offer a vintage look and feel complete with a cow catcher on the front and wooden bench seats inside. Trolleys are wheelchair accessible and are equipped with bicycle racks.