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.

Wednesday, September 20, 2023
VIRTUAL RAILFAN is live!
Sep 20 all-day
online w/ Hub City RR Museum

VIRTUAL RAILFAN is live from the Hub City RR Museum in Spartanburg.

The Virtual Railfan cameras were installed on Tuesday, July 6th at the Hub City Railroad Museum. There is one camera looking north and one looking south. The Hub City RR Museum wants to thank the City of Spartanburg for allowing us to install the cameras, and to Virtual Railfan for the install. We have already seen over 300 railfans at one time watching the video feed.
Links to live feeds: [North Camera feed] [South Camera feed]

Carolina Railroad Heritage Association

CRHA LogoThe Carolina Railroad Heritage Association is a <501(c)(3)> not for profit local association of approximately eighty members who enjoy railroads and railroad history. The CRHA is currently meeting the third Friday of each month in Fountain Inn, SC at 7:00 pm. Programs at the meetings include presentations on historical and current railroads and are presented by members as well as outside speakers. Our activities include a photo contest, occasional field trips to local railroad sites, picnics and a December pot luck dinner. CRHA members volunteer at our museum and caboose in Spartanburg, SC. If you have an interest in railroads, contact Dave Winans at [email protected] for more information about the CRHA.

For membership, please download and print the membership application and follow the instructions.

Museum Hours:
Wed: 10am – 2pm
Sat: 10am – 2pm

Wilderness Medicine + Survival Skills at Nantahala Outdoor Center
Sep 20 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

LEARN MORE THIS YEAR

Brush up on your wilderness medicine or learn new survival skills! SOLO Southeast & NOC are offering over 200 courses in 2023 and classes in locations across the southeast.

  • Atlanta, GA
  • Bryson City, NC
  • Chattanooga, TN
  • Collegedale, TN
  • Greenville, SC

Find your next course with SOLO Southeast and be prepared for the unexpected!

Volunteer: Greer Community Garden
Sep 20 @ 7:00 am
Greer Community Garden

Volunteer

Water our garden plot at the Greer Community Garden located at 218 West Road, Greer, SC. Our plots are 13,19,25,31. Coming from the parking lot, they will be the last 4 plots to the far left of the first section.

The best time to water is when the temperature is before 80° (in the morning before the sun is too high or in the late afternoon once it’s begun to set).

If you need anything, email Jenn [email protected]

RENEW: Walking Group
Sep 20 @ 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Greer Relief & Resources Agency, Inc.

Take a walk with a neighbor in the park. Check-in and out at Greer Relief.

Weather dependent unless otherwise noted.

Remember:

  • Please be early. There are no late check-ins.
  • The class is for adults only. Children can walk with you in the park if you (or someone) can watch them. They can participate if they wish, but only those 18 and older will earn a RENEW reward.
  • Must attend in person and be present for the entirety of each class to earn RENEW Rewards.
  • RENEW Rewards: $10 

About RENEW: RENEW is an education, enrichment, and life skills program designed to improve the quality of life and well-being of the greater Greer community. We welcome any and all individuals who are passionate about learning and developing skills that will set them on a path of healthy living.

RENEW: Reaching Every Neighbor Every Way, for classes on: Financial Wellness, Job Services, and Healthy Living

Working Wednesdays: Trail Work
Sep 20 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park
Cost: Free

Meet a Ranger at the Eagle Rock Access as we move some dirt on the Weed Patch Mountain Trial. Tools provided. Wear sturdy boots, bring gloves, and water. No registration required.

Note: This event takes place in the Eagle Rock park access.

Volunteer w/ The Spartanburg Soup Kitchen
Sep 20 @ 9:30 am – 1:00 pm
The Spartanburg Soup Kitchen
The Spartanburg Soup Kitchen has been serving the community since 1981. With the goal of nourishing those in need both physically and spiritually, they have become an irreplaceable resource in Spartanburg.
In addition to their regular services, the soup kitchen also provides a “children’s corner” which offers a special place for kids to enjoy a meal and engage in activities such as story time or drawing with volunteers and other guests.

Volunteer Opportunities

(Anytime between 9:30-1:30)
Food Prep
Load and unload incoming donations
Organize pantry
Assemble children’s take-home bags
Dishwasher duty
Food line servers
After lunch clean up (Tables, chairs, floors)

Greer Relief Volunteer Opportunities
Sep 20 @ 10:00 am
Greer Relief & Resources Agency, Inc.

Volunteer

Opportunities

Are we on your calendar?

Go HERE to see available activities

Most needed days & times for the pantry are* Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:30pm

Monday & Thursday 2pm-5pm

Wednesday & Friday 9am-12noon

RENEW SHOP

Thursday, September 28th

8:45am-12:30pm

12:30pm-4:30pm

Set up on

Wednesday, September 27th

Other Activities Include:

  • Sorting donations
  • Taking extra donations to Carol’s Hope
  • The Shop is open the last Thursday each month

Greer Community Garden

Our garden is going into a new season. We are going to have a fall garden!! Henn’s Plant Farm in Fletcher, NC has donated the plants. As soon as the plot is tilled planting can take place.

Please email [email protected] for more information.

Weeding, watering, and bringing produce to office will continue!!

Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience
Sep 20 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

“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 our popular Cajun seasoned Pulled Pork BBQ with Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce cooked in our special spices and slow roasted to perfection! During the month of October, 9am departures will feature the option of a delicious Cheesy Shrimp & Grits or Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole while 2pm departures will be served the popular BBQ meal.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion
Sep 20 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ALONG SIDE THE BEAUTIFUL NANTAHALA RIVER ON OUR NANTAHALA GORGE EXCURSION! DEPARTING FROM BRYSON CITY, THIS 4½ HOUR ROUNDTRIP EXCURSION CARRIES YOU 44 MILES TO THE NANTAHALA GORGE AND BACK AGAIN ARRIVING AT OUR BRYSON CITY DEPOT.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Onboard dining is available in First Class Seating and selecting from our  First Class Dinning menu options OR you can pre-purchase a box lunch option to make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing!

Itinerary

30m before departure Boarding begins at Bryson City Depot
See schedule for departure time Depart Bryson City, NC
1h 45m Reach top of the line
2h 00m Begin return
2h 30m—3h 30m Layover
3h 30m Depart Layover
4h 30m Arrive at Bryson City Depot
Time from Departure Activity
Wee Wine + Dahlias
Sep 20 @ 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Bullington Gardens
Bullington Gardens invites you to experience the epitome of exclusivity with their new and exciting offering – twilight parties in the enchanting gardens. Now accepting reservations, this is your chance to indulge in a truly magical evening with your own private group of eight. From August 15 to October 14, 2023, Tuesday through Saturday, 4:30-6:30p.m., immerse yourself in nature’s wonders while delighting your palate with locally-sourced wines and cider, all in the company of the resplendent Dahlias in full bloom.

Picture this: you and your closest companions, relishing the serenity of the gardens, sipping on delectable beverages, and taking leisurely strolls amidst the breathtaking flora. To ensure an intimate experience, each group of up to eight will have their own private party. Whether you prefer the charming pavilion or the festive tents, the choice is yours. And fear not, for even if the rain tries to dampen the mood, the horticultural therapy greenhouse is ready to shelter you.

With only two groups accommodated each evening, you’ll have the pleasure of enjoying your own secluded space. Each group’s table will be beautifully set in separate venues, adorned with fresh floral arrangements that you can take home as a keepsake. As the host, you have the opportunity to curate a culinary masterpiece by bringing your own hors d’oeuvres or even an entire meal. Imagine the delight of savoring delicious food amidst an unparalleled view, creating an unforgettable private party.

The cost for a table of eight is $300 per group, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. If you’re interested in elevating your involvement, consider a sponsorship level of $500. By participating in this extraordinary event, you will not only create cherished memories but also support the Educational and Horticultural Therapy programs dedicated to children and adults with special needs.

To secure your spot for the Wee Wine & Dahlias evening of your dreams, reserve below or give us a call at 828-698-6104. Remember, availability is limited, so make sure to secure your reservation early. Get ready to immerse yourself in an evening of enchantment at Bullington Gardens!

August 15th through October 14th, 2023. Tuesday-Saturday, 4:30pm-6:30pm.

Fischer’s Trivia Extravaganza
Sep 20 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
New Groove Artisan Brewery

Come out to New Groove and enjoy dinner and beer – then test your mental mettle with Fischer’s Trivia Extravaganza! General trivia with a Stupid Hard Question.

Weekly Prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd – Quarterly Tournaments with Overall Winners and a Booby Prize for the frequent flier non-winner. 🍻

Make your Wednesday plan for Trivia with Fischer at New Groove in Boiling Springs, SC!

Thursday, September 21, 2023
Volunteer: Greer Community Garden
Sep 21 @ 7:00 am
Greer Community Garden

Volunteer

Water our garden plot at the Greer Community Garden located at 218 West Road, Greer, SC. Our plots are 13,19,25,31. Coming from the parking lot, they will be the last 4 plots to the far left of the first section.

The best time to water is when the temperature is before 80° (in the morning before the sun is too high or in the late afternoon once it’s begun to set).

If you need anything, email Jenn [email protected]

Fall in Love with Exercise
Sep 21 @ 9:00 am – 10:30 am
Cleveland Park Event Center

September 22 is Fall Prevention Day, and we want to teach you about ways to prevent falls.

T.J. Mack, Trauma Research and Education Coordinator, teaches a fitness class for older adults called SAIL; Stay Active and Independent for Life. The class is designed to help people 65 years old and above to build flexibility, awareness and confidence.

Exercising to build muscle is essential. However, to maximize your benefits, you need a program that includes aerobics, balance, strength training, and stretching. The SAIL program offers all of this during a one-hour class twice a week and this is your chance to learn more.

If you are 65 or older, you have older relatives, or are interested, T.J. hopes you’ll consider SAIL. “It’s free, and most importantly it’s fun,” T.J. said. “You get to meet people, listen to good music and improve your overall health, all at the same time.”

All participants work at their own pace.

In this session participants will learn tips and information for creating a safer home and surrounding environment.

After we discuss the fall prevention tips, we will move into our exercise portion of the class.

Volunteer w/ The Spartanburg Soup Kitchen
Sep 21 @ 9:30 am – 1:00 pm
The Spartanburg Soup Kitchen
The Spartanburg Soup Kitchen has been serving the community since 1981. With the goal of nourishing those in need both physically and spiritually, they have become an irreplaceable resource in Spartanburg.
In addition to their regular services, the soup kitchen also provides a “children’s corner” which offers a special place for kids to enjoy a meal and engage in activities such as story time or drawing with volunteers and other guests.

Volunteer Opportunities

(Anytime between 9:30-1:30)
Food Prep
Load and unload incoming donations
Organize pantry
Assemble children’s take-home bags
Dishwasher duty
Food line servers
After lunch clean up (Tables, chairs, floors)

Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience
Sep 21 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

“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 our popular Cajun seasoned Pulled Pork BBQ with Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce cooked in our special spices and slow roasted to perfection! During the month of October, 9am departures will feature the option of a delicious Cheesy Shrimp & Grits or Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole while 2pm departures will be served the popular BBQ meal.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion
Sep 21 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

TAKE A TRAIN RIDE ALONG SIDE THE BEAUTIFUL NANTAHALA RIVER ON OUR NANTAHALA GORGE EXCURSION! DEPARTING FROM BRYSON CITY, THIS 4½ HOUR ROUNDTRIP EXCURSION CARRIES YOU 44 MILES TO THE NANTAHALA GORGE AND BACK AGAIN ARRIVING AT OUR BRYSON CITY DEPOT.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Onboard dining is available in First Class Seating and selecting from our  First Class Dinning menu options OR you can pre-purchase a box lunch option to make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing!

Itinerary

30m before departure Boarding begins at Bryson City Depot
See schedule for departure time Depart Bryson City, NC
1h 45m Reach top of the line
2h 00m Begin return
2h 30m—3h 30m Layover
3h 30m Depart Layover
4h 30m Arrive at Bryson City Depot
Time from Departure Activity
Wee Wine + Dahlias
Sep 21 @ 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Bullington Gardens
Bullington Gardens invites you to experience the epitome of exclusivity with their new and exciting offering – twilight parties in the enchanting gardens. Now accepting reservations, this is your chance to indulge in a truly magical evening with your own private group of eight. From August 15 to October 14, 2023, Tuesday through Saturday, 4:30-6:30p.m., immerse yourself in nature’s wonders while delighting your palate with locally-sourced wines and cider, all in the company of the resplendent Dahlias in full bloom.

Picture this: you and your closest companions, relishing the serenity of the gardens, sipping on delectable beverages, and taking leisurely strolls amidst the breathtaking flora. To ensure an intimate experience, each group of up to eight will have their own private party. Whether you prefer the charming pavilion or the festive tents, the choice is yours. And fear not, for even if the rain tries to dampen the mood, the horticultural therapy greenhouse is ready to shelter you.

With only two groups accommodated each evening, you’ll have the pleasure of enjoying your own secluded space. Each group’s table will be beautifully set in separate venues, adorned with fresh floral arrangements that you can take home as a keepsake. As the host, you have the opportunity to curate a culinary masterpiece by bringing your own hors d’oeuvres or even an entire meal. Imagine the delight of savoring delicious food amidst an unparalleled view, creating an unforgettable private party.

The cost for a table of eight is $300 per group, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. If you’re interested in elevating your involvement, consider a sponsorship level of $500. By participating in this extraordinary event, you will not only create cherished memories but also support the Educational and Horticultural Therapy programs dedicated to children and adults with special needs.

To secure your spot for the Wee Wine & Dahlias evening of your dreams, reserve below or give us a call at 828-698-6104. Remember, availability is limited, so make sure to secure your reservation early. Get ready to immerse yourself in an evening of enchantment at Bullington Gardens!

August 15th through October 14th, 2023. Tuesday-Saturday, 4:30pm-6:30pm.

Grandfather Presents: Brad Panovich
Sep 21 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Grandfather Mountain

As part of our Grandfather Presents series, meet Meteorologist Brad Panovich and learn “How the Mountains of North Carolina Affect Our Weather In Every Season of the Year”. Brad is a well-known and respected meteorologist who has been working for WCNC-TV in Charlotte since 2003. He is the chief meteorologist and hosted the weekly segment “Carolina Weather School” during COVID lockdowns. He is also an avid skier and snowboarder who provides weather forecasts for ski resorts across the southeast.

Brad has a passion for weather and science education. He holds a bachelor’s degree in meteorology from The Ohio State University. He is a certified broadcast meteorologist by the American Meteorological Society and a member of the National Weather Association. He has won several awards for his work, including two Emmys and The American Meteorological Society Broadcast Meteorologist of the year in 2017. He is also an adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina Charlotte in their Meteorology department.

Brad Panovich is not only a meteorologist, but also a social media influencer. He has over 425,000 followers on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube, where he posts daily weather updates, videos, live streams and interactive Q&A sessions. He is known for his engaging and informative style, as well as his use of humor and emojis. He is also an advocate for environmental issues, such as climate change and renewable energy.

Brad Panovich is a proud husband and father of two children. He enjoys spending time with his family, skiing, hiking, biking and playing video games. He is also a fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Carolina Panthers and the Charlotte Hornets.

Tickets
Buy tickets below beginning July 20, 2023.

“VIP” tickets include a VIP reception with the guest speaker that includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, in addition to the program and the “meet and greet” session after the event. Admission to the park for the day is also included.

  • $60 “VIP” Adult
  • $51 “VIP” Bridge Club Member

“Regular” tickets are a more cost-effective option and include only the speaker’s program and the “meet and greet” session after the event.

  • $25 “Regular” Adult
  • $20 “Regular” Bridge Club Member
  • Children under 12 admitted for free (max of four free children per purchase)

Refunds/Cancelations
Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration please call 828-733-2013 Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Schedule

  • 8 a.m. | Park opens for the day and “VIP” ticket holders allowed access to the park
  • 4:45 p.m. | “Regular” ticket holders allowed to enter the park and head to the Wilson Center for the event
  • 5 – 5:30 p.m. | “VIP” Reception in one of the classrooms in the Wilson Center (VIP ticket holders only)
  • 5:45 – 6:45 p.m. | Speaker Presentation in the Classroom in the Clouds
  • 6:45 – 7:30 p.m. | Meet and Greet or Book Signing with Speaker
  • 7:45 p.m. | Park should be clear of all Grandfather Presents guests

Refunds/Cancellations
Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration please call 828-733-2013 Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

More About Grandfather Presents
Our 2023 speaker series at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery includes five big Thursday night events with internationally and nationally known presenters. Presented by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, the series also includes two Saturday afternoon presentations focused on nature, adventure or conservation-related topics on a local or regional scale. Read more.

ArborEvenings
Sep 21 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
The North Carolina Arboretum

Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s gardens 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 September 30, 2022 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.

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.

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, they will be offering their delicious dining options at ArborEvenings via pre-order! 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. 

Find more information here. 

Live Music Thursdays
Sep 21 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
RJ Rockers Brewing Company