The Office of Special Events supports safe, vibrant, and well-managed outdoor events in Asheville. They review events proposed in outdoor public spaces and on outdoor private property, helping organizers navigate City requirements while balancing community, operational, and safety considerations. Learn more about currently scheduled events and the types of events the City permits by visiting the Office of Special Events webpage.
Events on Public Property
Permits are available for festivals, markets, parades, block parties, performances, and other organized events on public property. This includes public streets, sidewalks, parks, plazas or other City-managed outdoor spaces.
Public Property Event Planning
Before planning your event, learn about the event process, available public spaces, permitting requirements, timelines, rules and regulations and potential impacts on surrounding areas.
Events on Private Property
Temporary event uses on private property may require City review. This can include outdoor events with tents, temporary structures, amplified sound, generators, food vendors, temporary power, or other added event components.
Public Assemblies
Rallies or Demonstrations
Informal gatherings of people expressing their views in a public space.
Informal Gatherings
Small gatherings of fewer than 50 people in a City park or plaza generally do not require a permit when they:
- Occur during normal park operating hours
- Do not require tents or shelters
- Do not require power or water
- Do not require exclusive use of the space
- If all the above are true, go for it!
Street Performances
Street performers can share music, art, and other forms of entertainment in public sidewalk spaces.