How quickly it seems 2026 has passed as we reach these last two busy months of this year. Already holiday events are on the calendar as days shorten and we move into beautiful November, that liminal time between autumn and winter. Plan now for a night out at the theater for NC Stage Company’s production of Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol, some festive music from the Blue Ridge Orchestra and a performance of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.
Gina Malone, Editor
With prices on everything soaring these days, it’s a better time than ever to be mindful of holiday spending and keeping it local. As Julie Bell of Trackside Studios puts it, “Gifting handcrafted items is like giving three gifts—a unique present to your recipient, financial support to the artist and economic strength to the community.” Trackside’s artists have art gift ideas large and small—fine art paintings, ornaments, stickers, even gift cards for artwork or classes.
Two years have passed since the devastation of Hurricane Helene, but that doesn’t mean that all is well. Many artists and business owners are still working at recovery, and the holidays are a time of hope as they offer their goods and services. Two of the hardest hit areas were, of course, the River Arts District and the town of Marshall. Join RAD artists this month for RADFest, with special events planned for the weekend-long celebration of artists and all the joy and meaning they bring to our lives. In Marshall, two opportunities to meet artists and purchase art are planned: the Marshall Handmade Market and the Madison County Arts Council’s Holiday Market.
Some other shopping opportunities that beat Black Friday any day include The Lucy Clark Gallery & Studio Jewelry Trunk Show in Brevard, the Weaverville Art Safari and Grovewood Gallery’s exhibition of handcrafted board games, puzzles and other interactive works.
In addition, we have shadow puppets, acclaimed music and dance ensembles, turkeys, a groundbreaking concert for the Asheville Symphony and a Hallmark Christmas movie experience in Dillsboro.
If gift-giving isn’t your thing, but philanthropy is, consider donating to the Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary’s Renewal Campaign or Stockings of Love at Asheville Salt Cave.
This year, enjoy the season in whatever creative way brings joy and peace to your world!
Gina Malone can be reached at gina@thelaurelofasheville.com
