Your Pass to a World of Wonder
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November 26, 2026-January 1, 2027
For the ultimate festive small-town experience to get you in the holiday spirit, drive and stroll down Main Street decked out with a million lights for Hometown Holidays in our top "Christmas Town" Forest City in Rutherford County.
Wrapped around the live oak trees and hanging overhead, the displays center around the town fountain. The tradition dates back to 1930, when the town hung its first set of lights on two trees.
Bundle up with a cup of hot chocolate and hop on a carriage (offered on weekends) through the magical display of holiday lights. And make sure to visit the Pavilion on Park Square to see the region’s largest, lighted Christmas ornament! Read more about Forest City.
Forest City uses one million lights to create its incredible Christmas holidays displays.
The grinch is seen roaming the streets of Forest City, NC during Hometown Holidays.
The store displays are decorated for the holidays, making window shopping even more fun during the Christmas season in Forest City, NC.
While you can enjoy the lighting extravaganza free of charge every night of the week, some of the extra experiences, including carriage rides, hay rides, and ice skating, charge a fee.
Directions
Forest City is located about 60 miles southeast of Asheville - about halfway to Charlotte along US Highway 74. See our Forest City Guide for more things to do nearby. Come early to visit a winery in the Tryon Foothills Wine Country.
Video: Lighting Ceremony
Watch the lighting of the 1 million lights from Thanksgiving Night
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