Superbowl XLIX companion: a game day guide to Asheville’s cheap booze, good eats and big screens

While nacho stains are certainly more socially acceptable in the comforts of one’s own home, why not venture out for some game day antics this year? Super Bowl XLIX, New England Patriots versus Seattle Seahawks, kicks off Sunday, Feb. 1, at 6:30 p.m., and Asheville-area businesses have planned a variety of celebrations to suit your football fancy.

Asheville Wing War approaches its fourth year of competitio­n

So far, confirmed warriors include Mojo Taco Lounge, Luella’s Bar-B-Que, Haywood Lounge, the Social, Foggy Mountain Brewpub, Scully’s Bar and Grill, King James Public House, Moe’s Original Bar B Que, Creekside Taphouse and the Barleycorn. A few additional competitor slots remain, and three of the listed participants — Barleycorn, Moe’s and Creekside — are in the game to defend a title.

Burger warriors: The Social takes on WNC Battle of the Burger challenger­s

Burgers are serious business in WNC — for both chefs and diners — and this weekend’s inaugural Battle of the Burger promises some stiff competition for the title of Best Burger in WNC. Among a diverse field of challengers ranging from the Farm to Fender food truck to downtown cocktail lounge The Vault, a little East Asheville bar and grill, The Social, is planning to bring their A-game to the event on Sunday, Aug. 10.