It's almost New Year's Eve, and, as you might imagine, Asheville has plans to be hopping. As always, there are many options available if you want to go out on the town. We've compiled a list of the most exciting and unique happenings to make venturing out worth your while.
Grand Opening Celebration at the S&W Event Space
Renovations of this historic Art Deco space, built in 1928, have been ongoing, but New Year's Eve is their moment to shine in a Grand Opening Gala that includes hors d'oeuvres and a champagne toast at midnight. Opening act
Fly by Night Rounders set the pace, followed by music from
Mick Glasgow and the House Hoppers Jazz Band to enliven the night. Dress in your fanciest Prohibition-era duds. Tickets are $25 on
Eventbrite.
New Year's Masquerade at the Asheville Music Hall
The annual masquerade is happening again this year, and it's your best opportunity to turn up your imagination and create the best costume ever. The popular event is a party and a concert. This year, music from
Bird of Prey,
Empire Strikes Brass,
Push/Pull,
The Hornitz,
Rims and Keys,
Hank West and the Smokin' Hots, and
TEMPI will keep the party bumping in the Music Hall and downstairs at the One Stop.
Tickets on sale for $10 in advance, $15 the day of.
RJD2 at the Orange Peel
Once again, RJD2 works his magic at the Orange Peel. The electronic artist is one of the biggest artists working in the genre right now, and his shows are always a thing of wonder. Opening acts
Transputer and
Selector Cleofus get the groove going. This show sold out last year--get your
tickets now!
Asheville Rhythm Presents Dancing, Drums, and Dreams at Eliada
This "Rhythmic Celebration of the New Year" is an evening of drumming, inspirational readings, sound meditation, communal fire drumming, food, and fun.
Free Planet Radio and
KalimbaMan Kevin Spears will provide the rhythm for your soul. The evening will close with a restorative sound meditation (bring a yoga mat or blanket). This is a kid-friendly event.
Tickets start at $19 (for students), and kids under 12 get in free.
Cosmic Countdown 2016 at MG Road
MG Road hosts a space-themed party that promises to be "the planetary party of the ages," complete with "intergalactic tunes and cocktail specials."
DJ Meow Meow will hold down the tunes while you get your dance on. Cover is a mere $3.
Girls Rock Asheville Cover Show at the Odditorium
In its second year, the
Cover Show at West Asheville's Odditorium benefits
Girls Rock Asheville, which hosts a three-day music camp for girls that promotes "positive reinforcement and helpful workshops" for girls and trans youth. The Cover Show will be a fun-filled romp through the music of Dolly Parton, the Cars, Rancid, Hole, and more. A donation of $5-15 is suggested.
With so many options available, where will you be ringing in the New Year?