ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) – Buncombe County and beyond will be abuzz this weekend with all manner of blissful activities, some celebrating the cold temperatures, others taking solace from indoor heating systems. Have your choice of one of these local experiences or check out the 828newsNOW Events website for more options.  

Assembly Required 

Toys R Us is child’s play for this group of designer toy artists. Hailing from more than 20 states and Canada, this yearly gathering of bespoke toy craftsmen has descended on Asheville for seven years now. Take a nostalgic journey on Saturday or Sunday to their expo to marvel at their work or watch an accompanying puppet show at Sly Grog Lounge featuring multiple human performers and with animated counterparts. 

For more information on the Assembly Required Designer Toy Expo, click here. If the puppet festivities piqued your interest, click here. 

Haywood Ice Festival  

Did you think Spring was coming soon? Haywood County thinks otherwise. Starting on Thursday and going all weekend long, a cornucopia of events is planned for Waynesville, Canton and Maggie Valley. From live ice carving demonstrations to the Cataloochee Ski Torch Run, Haywood’s weekend schedule is packed with a celebration of all things winter.  

If you want to know what else Haywood has planned for their winter wonderland, click here. 

Two-Day Book Sale 

Have you been looking for some new media to add to your collection? Whether it be books, movies or CDs, the Friends of South Buncombe Library Book Sale will have it all this weekend. From 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Friday and Saturday at the South Buncombe Library, peruse thousands of used books and more for unbeatable prices. You will only need to bring a few dollars because the prices will be that low. 

Click here for more details about the book sale including the pricing structure. 

Asheville Community Square Dance 

Ready to get footloose and waltzing? Dance on down to the Haw Creek Commons this Saturday from 6-10 p.m. for a family-friendly and beginner friendly old-fashioned country dance. Bring the whole family out to eat a local food truck dinner and have an active night of square dancing. If you do not know how to dance, fear not, every dance will be taught to participants. 

Are you ready to get moving and grooving? Click here for further details on the square dance. 

If you are still unsure about your weekend plans, check out the 828newsNOW Events website for dozens of options including live music, stand-up comedy, crafting opportunities and a whole lot more.