Western North Carolina's October calendar is packed with opportunities to hear music, explore handmade art, enjoy family-friendly Halloween activities and spend time in mountain communities.

Here is a selection of events scheduled for Friday, October 23, through Sunday, October 25.

FRIDAY THROUGH SUNDAY | Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair

The WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher hosts the Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair October 23–25 with workshops, vendors, demonstrations and livestock shows.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; admission is $5 daily or $10 for a three-day pass, with children under 13 free.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23 | Wolf Howl-O-Ween

The WNC Nature Center in Asheville hosts a family-friendly evening from 6 to 8 p.m., featuring guided visits around the wolf habitats, crafts, games and costume activities.

Check the Nature Center's event registration and availability before attending.

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23–24 | Gillian Welch and David Rawlings

The musicians present their Grateful Dead Acoustic Reckoning concerts at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium at Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville.

Both shows are listed for 7:30 p.m.; check ticket availability and event entry policies in advance.

FRIDAY THROUGH SUNDAY | Sister Act at Flat Rock Playhouse

Flat Rock Playhouse concludes its run of the musical comedy Sister Act on October 25.

Audiences looking for a theatrical outing should verify the remaining performance times and tickets with the Playhouse.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 | Art by the Tracks

From noon to 5 p.m., the Old Depot Arts and Crafts Center in the Swannanoa Valley hosts a show of work by regional artists, with live music and proceeds supporting arts education.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 | Surreal Sirkus Arts Festival

Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville hosts this free event from noon to 10 p.m., featuring live music, DJs, local artists, performances and a theatrical spectacle around sunset.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 | Día de Muertos

The Stephens-Lee Center in Asheville offers a free event from 2 to 4 p.m. with traditional crafts, music, food, face painting and a community ofrenda.

Children younger than 14 must attend with an adult.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 | Tricks-n-Treats Dog Festival

The North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville holds its dog-themed festivities from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a scavenger hunt, pet vendors, costume fun and live music.

Regular parking charges apply unless a visitor qualifies for an alternative arrangement.

Plan before you go

Dates, ticket availability, weather arrangements and registration requirements can change, especially for smaller events.

Check with each organizer before traveling and allow extra time for mountain roads and weekend traffic.

Whether your plans involve a major show or a relaxed afternoon exploring local crafts, the 828 has plenty to discover this weekend.