We can't think of a better way to enjoy your weekend than to treat yourself (and others!) to free hugs, compliments, smiles, and laughter, which is why this weekend we're featuring the Bliss Mob Hug Parade on Saturday afternoon as our Event of the Week. We talked with organizer Elle Erickson (of the Booth Fairy Project) about what to expect.  Thursday, 5/18 Fashmob IX: Cover Story @ Wedge Brewing Foundation  5 p.m. It's Fashmob time, when designers, photographers, models, make-up artists, and more come together and make spontaneous (or planned) magic happen. Fashmob is open to anyone and is especially for people who are new to the industry. Organized by Duncan Chaboudy and Studio 250. Malverse @ The Magnetic Theatre Thursdays-Saturdays through 6/3; 7 p.m. (Saturday show at 10) Now in its second week, Malverse combines urban legend, myth, and ghost stories to explore race relations and urban gentrification.   Friday Downtown After 5 @ North Lexington Ave 5 - 9:30 p.m. Free music and fun as this beloved tradition returns to the streets of Asheville. John Phillips Big Band opens for the High and Mighty Brass Band.  Moonlight Makers' Pop Up Shop Grand Opening Party @ Rankin Avenue 5 - 9 p.m. Asheville creatives make things, hang out, sell things at their new pop-up shop and workshop location at the corner of Rankin and Walnut. Free wine and live music from Andy Pond and Jake Wolf. Science Pub: The Neuroscience of Bias @ The Collider 5:30 - 8 p.m. Where does our bias come from? Explore the question with presenters Lekesha McDay and Lisa Eby at this event organized by the Asheville Museum of Science (AMOS) and the Collider. Beverages provided by the Asheville Brewer's Association. Free science! BEAT LIFE @ Asheville Music Hall 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. Producers and turntablists throw down at this free BEAT LIFE event, featuring sets from Vietnam Jerry, DJ Kutzu, Matt May, and other special guests. (And do go back to the Music Hall on Saturday for the Golden Star Arkestra).  Saturday Montford Music and Arts Festival @ Montford 10 - 7 p.m. The longest-running street festival in Asheville's oldest neighborhood returns! Check out music, vendors, food, and more on your beautiful Saturday. Bliss Mob Hug Parade @ Pritchard Park (Featured Event!) 2 - 3 p.m. The unstoppable creative force that is Elle Erickson (of the Booth Fairy Project) brings love to downtown Asheville in this hour of, well, bliss. Signs are provided for this free event. Find out what Elle's up to with the Booth Fairy Project and support her Patreon here. Burners & BBQ @ 5 Foundy St Friday - Sunday This weekend-long event kicks off at the Wedge Foundation at 6 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday, see Can't Be Stopped at Grail Moviehouse at 9:30. This weekend's events will also be fundraisers for the Burners & BBQ main event in August.   Saturday and Sunday Sisterhood of Shred @ Grail Moviehouse 12 noon Saturday/Sunday Thursday's opening night Asheville premiere of this full-length documentary is sold out, but you have two other chances to catch these badass ladies on screen.