Rising singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Alma Russ will hit the stage at 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, at The Scotsman Public House in Waynesville. 

An evening of traditional contra, round and other folk dances will be held from 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.

Professional dance caller Harrison Keely will open the event at 6:30 p.m. with 30 minutes of basic instruction for beginners.

Country and bluegrass star Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. 

On Saturday morning, Dec. 14, Becky reminded me that she was going to hear Darren Nicholson and his band play at the Tuckasegee Trading Company’s annual holiday open house, and she hoped I’d go too.

Haywood County rock/country act Outlaw Whiskey will perform as part of the “New Year’s Eve Party” at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31, at Unplugged Pub in Bryson City. 

A renowned jazz/soul ensemble, the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra will perform at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 30, at the Highlands Performing Arts Center in Highlands.

All across America and around the world, audiences have fallen in love with these two sophisticated Southern gentlemen (Davis & Johnson) and the high-energy show featuring the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra. 

Jam-rock ensemble Prophets of Time will hit the stage at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20, at Lazy Hiker Brewing in Sylva. 

Americana/folk singer-songwriter Woolybooger will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at Lazy Hiker Brewing in Sylva and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Lazy Hiker Brewing in Franklin. 

The Haywood Community Band will host its “Sounds of the Season” concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 14, at the Calvary Road Baptist Church in Maggie Valley. 

The inaugural “Cold Mountain Christmas Craft Fair” will be held from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Lake Logan Retreat Center in Canton.