Asheville Reporter

September is a transitional period between the warm days of August and the cool nights of October. In Asheville, this time marks the return of Friday night football games and apple picking, as the mountains begin their display of autumn colors. While tourists flock to popular attractions, Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) offers a variety of activities, events, and classes for local residents.

Asheville Parks & Recreation September 2024 Program Highlights

Residents can visit ashevillenc.gov/apr-guide or stop by an APR community center for a program guide. Due to high demand, advance registration is recommended for most activities, which opens 30 days prior.

Special events include A Wheelie Good Time Motorcycle Show, Swiftie Skate Night, Burton Street Agricultural Fair, Asheville Sneaker Ball, Shiloh Community Cleanup and Fish Fry, and B Street Three Point Competition.

Programs for Teens & Tweens

Activities such as Science of Eating allow participants to create edible science experiments like cloud bread and rock candy. The Teen Three Point Knockout competition and youth basketball registration are also available. River Snorkeling offers a new perspective on mountain streams. Beyond Brushes encourages artistic expression using unconventional tools. REC-cess provides physical activity opportunities for homeschool students. High school students can access fitness center memberships with cardio equipment and free weights.

Programs for Kids & Families

Themed events like Toddler Takeover and Toddler Craftin’ Outdoors foster social interaction in parks. Indoor activities include Toddler & Me Time and Tiny Tykes. Youth Glow Night features an indoor climbing wall event with white and neon attire. Family Paint Night and Family Fishing Night offer relaxation opportunities. Rookie Readers promotes book exploration. Events like Kids Night In at Stephens-Lee Center and Kids Night Out at Grant Southside Center provide fun experiences for children.

Programs for Adults

Craft & Connect includes making homemade dog treats and floral arrangements. Adult Archery allows participants to develop archery skills. Forest Therapy and Wild Reads Book Club offer mental exercise opportunities. The Grove Street Cornhole Tournament encourages friendly competition. Girls Girl Brunch celebrates sisterhood and empowerment. Dance classes such as West Coast Swing, Ballroom Dance, and Rueda de Casino salsa afternoons are available.

Registration for adult flag football opens on September 3; registration for adult indoor and outdoor volleyball leagues closes on the same day.

Programs for Active Older Adults

Treks Hiking Club will explore Three Waterfalls Trail among other weekly clubs and classes at Harvest House, Grove Street, and other community centers.

Therapeutic Recreation Programs

For individuals with developmental or physical disabilities requiring additional support:

- A trip to the Mountain State Fair.

- Hiking at Blue Ridge Parkway Visitors Center.

- Walking in Carrier Park.

- Crafting and cooking on Tuesdays.

- Morning movement on Wednesdays.

- Adaptive bowling, tennis, and indoor rock climbing planned for October-November.

Check Out All September-December Programs

The current APR Program Guide is available in English and Spanish online or at community centers. Given the popularity of these programs, early planning is advisable.

Resources:

- Search Asheville Parks & Recreation programs online.

- Subscribe to Asheville Parks & Recreation’s monthly newsletter.

- Visit parks, greenways, playgrounds throughout Asheville.