Forest City Christmas Lights

November 23, 2023 - January 1, 2024
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.

While you can enjoy the lighting extravaganza free of charge every night of the week, there are some extra events below!

November 23: Forest City's annual tree lighting is on Thanksgiving night, November 23, with live music from a local gospel quartet. The ceremony begins at 6:30 PM, and the lights are turned on at 7 PM by the mayor and his special guest. 

November 26: The annual Forest City Christmas Parade will be held on Sunday, November 26, at 3 PM. It begins at the Cool Springs Administrative Building and travels east on Main Street to First United Methodist Church. 

Carriage Rides

Dates: December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, and 23 from 6-8:45 PM

Reservations $40/carriage (up to 4 adults or 2 adults & 3 kids). Reservations must be purchased online beginning November 27. Carriages load at the Pavilion on Park Square fountain at the corner of Mill Street and Huntley Avenue. (153 Park Square)

Hay Rides

Dates: December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, and 23 from 6-9 PM

Ticket sales begin at 6 PM, cost $3/person and are sold first come, first served. Hayrides load in front of Main Street Meetings. (108 East Main Street) 

Ice Skating

Dates: December 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 22, and 23

Ice skating (6 PM until) $9/person includes skates. (172 Park Square)

Lights are on each night from 5 PM-11:30 PM from Friday, November 24 through Monday, January 1.

Santa spotted in his Mustang cruising Main Street

Other Nearby Small Town Holiday Events

December 2, 2023: Rutherfordton Tree Lighting (NC's largest living Christmas tree) happens on the first Saturday in December and includes sidewalk vendors, a parade at 5 PM, tree lighting, music, and more. Read about Rutherfordton & Spindale.

December 2 & 9, 2023: Santa on the Chimney
Watch Santa practice his climbing skills on the biggest chimney around at Chimney Rock Park. Read more!

December: Christmas in Chimney Rock Village
Stroll Main Street to see the Christmas decorations and lights. Shop at a variety of local stores and galleries or dine at one of the cafes and restaurants, all open with extended hours. Read about Chimney Rock Village.

Main Street Restaurants
Some great dining options have opened during the last couple of years. Check them out:

• Copper Penny Grill, 146 E. Main St.
• Smith's Drugs, 139 E. Main St
• El Michocan, 107 W. Main St
• The Hoot Nannie, 164 E. Main St
• Slim's Bar & Grill, 114 N Powell St
• Pie Safe Baking Company, 102 W. Main St
• America’s Fudge Shop, 155 E. Main St
• Amp Nutrition, 124 Park Sq

Drinks 
Twisted Pear, taproom and coffee shop, 184 E. Main St.

Shops
Don't miss Banfield Gallery at 171 East Main Street (pic above) with works from 20+ artists including owners Tom & Kathy. They are open until 8 or 9 PM most nights. Another great stop is Harrill and Harrill Design Company at 121 East Main Street. Visit Jason and Dana for home décor, custom furniture, and vintage finds. 

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