Asheville Local: Plant Sales, Animal Sanctuaries, and Dining Farewells on This Lively Saturday

Good morning, this is your Asheville Local Frequency for Saturday, May 31, 2025. The final day of May is shaping up to be lively in Asheville, so whether you are looking to get outside, support local causes, or just soak in the unique culture of our mountain city, there is something waiting for you. Let's kick things off with a plant lover's paradise—the North Carolina Arboretum is hosting its annual spring plant sale and market from ten to three today. More than thirty local businesses and growers will be on hand offering everything from native perennials to carefully cultivated greenhouse treasures. The event is rain or shine and features a bustling kid’s corner with crafts and activities, as well as live music and classes about pollinators. It is a great way to get your hands dirty, meet fellow gardeners, and add a touch of green to your home just in time for summer. For animal lovers and families, Animal Haven of Asheville is celebrating a huge milestone: their twenty-fifth anniversary. From one to five this afternoon at their sanctuary on Lower Grassy Branch Road, you can meet rescued cows, pigs, goats, and more, enter raffles, and even buy artwork created by Bubbles the pig. The Smokin’ Onion food truck will be serving up vegan eats starting at twelve thirty, and the day kicks off with a special dedication and barn blessing. If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back and maybe make some new furry friends, this is your spot. In downtown Asheville, today is bittersweet for the plant-based community, as Laughing Seed Café, a staple since 1993, will be closing its doors for good at the end of service. This beloved vegan and vegetarian restaurant has been part of Asheville’s food landscape for over three decades, navigating everything from hurricanes to a changing downtown scene. If you have not yet had your last Laughing Seed meal, today is your chance to stop in for a final bite and to offer thanks for years of delicious and innovative dining. Turning to local news, authorities have confirmed a second suicide in one month at Asheville Academy, prompting community conversations about mental health and student safety. On a lighter note, the City continues to celebrate progress at Roger Farmer Memorial Park, where a new sports court was just unveiled, highlighting ongoing efforts to expand recreational spaces in Asheville’s neighborhoods. Before we go, keep an eye on the sky—there is a chance of afternoon thunderstorms today, so if you have outdoor plans, pack an umbrella just in case. This has been Asheville Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.