Hellbender Gathering of Poets Presents: An Afternoon with Poet Jane Hirshfield

The Hellbender Gathering of Poets Presents: An Afternoon with Poet Jane Hirshfield
in partnership with
The North Carolina Arboretum 
& Malaprop’s Bookstore
Sunday, October 5
1:00 – 5:30 p.m.
 


Schedule

1:00 pm: Welcome Reception (enjoy music while you meet members of the Hellbender community, peruse books and broadsides courtesy of Malaprop’s Bookstore, stroll the grounds at the Arboretum, & treat yourself to refreshments at the cash bar)
2:00 pm: Opening Remarks and Hurricane Helene Remembrance (introductions by Hellbender’s Executive Director, Nickole Brown, followed by a performance by roots musician Songbird Sarah Elizabeth Burkey and a screening of a short film by Scott Kirshenbaum)
2:30 pm: Jane Hirshfield to read poems, discuss her Poets for Science Initiative, and engage in conversation. Book signing to immediately follow.

Located within the scenic Pisgah National Forest just south of downtown Asheville, The North Carolina Arboretum encompasses 434 acres of stunning cultivated gardens, hiking and biking trails, and outdoor discovery spaces. Easily accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway and located at 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, the Arboretum is a premier destination for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. Key highlights include the Bonsai Exhibition Garden, National Native Azalea Repository, inspiring Quilt Garden, and multiple garden-themed trails representing native Appalachian flora. The Arboretum also features year-round rotating educational exhibits and programs, a visitor center with a gift shop showcasing regional crafts, and seasonally operated on-site dining. While admission is free, a parking fee applies to most vehicles. The Arboretum welcomes pedestrians, cyclists, and members with no charge. Accessibility features include wheelchair-friendly paths and complimentary wheelchairs available on-site.

Locals treasure the North Carolina Arboretum as a peaceful and beautiful retreat into nature with unparalleled botanical diversity. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained trails and the wealth of educational programs for all ages, including guided hikes, plant workshops, and kid-friendly discovery activities. The scenic views of the Southern Appalachian Mountains combined with captivating garden designs make it a favorite spot for photographers, artists, and outdoor fitness enthusiasts. Many locals also value the Arboretum’s commitment to conservation and sustainability, contributing to its status as a vital part of the Asheville community. The relaxed ambiance and plentiful amenities create the perfect blend of recreation and learning.

The North Carolina Arboretum

Enjoy Asheville, NC’s vibrant recreational scene with a wide variety of outdoor activities, sports leagues, parks, and family-friendly fun. Whether you love hiking, biking, paddleboarding, or playing sports, Asheville offers endless ways to stay active and engaged. Discover parks, recreational centers, and hidden outdoor gems that encourage community involvement and outdoor exploration. Perfect for locals and visitors alike, Asheville’s recreation options foster wellness, fun, and connection to nature and community. Find the best spots to unwind, get active, and make lasting memories in this dynamic mountain town.

Hellbender Gathering of Poets Presents: An Afternoon with Poet Jane Hirshfield

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