During the late fall and festive holiday season, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day, Asheville and the surrounding mountain small towns have many great events, festivals, and celebrations. Below are our favorites. Also, see our Holiday Things to Do for ideas for your vacation during November and December.
Top 50 Holiday Events, November & December
Christmas at Biltmore
Nov 03, 2023 - Jan 07, 2024The biggest event of the holiday season. See America's largest home decked out in festive finery. Candlelight Evenings are especially magical. See our extensive guide with tips, photos and details… read more
The biggest event of the holiday season. See America's largest home decked out in festive finery. Candlelight Evenings are especially magical. See our extensive guide with tips, photos and details.
Western North Carolina Pottery Festival
Nov 04, 2023Meet 40+ master potters from across the country at this premier juried art event. Watch them in action and buy amazing creations that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Meet 40+ master potters from across the country at this premier juried art event. Watch them in action and buy amazing creations that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Tryon Beer Fest
Nov 04, 2023A festive time with outdoor oyster roast, games, live music, and a great selection of craft beers and ciders. Downtown Tryon. 1-6 PM. Tickets: $35/person through August. $75 after Sept 1. Tickets… read more
A festive time with outdoor oyster roast, games, live music, and a great selection of craft beers and ciders. Downtown Tryon. 1-6 PM. Tickets: $35/person through August. $75 after Sept 1. Tickets capped at 1,000.
Spruce Pine Southern Christmas Show
Nov 04, 2023 - Nov 05, 2023This Arts & Craft event showcases a 3-D winter wonderland scene and holiday decorations in two large exhibit halls featuring over 60 local artists and crafters selling handmade jewelry,… read more
This Arts & Craft event showcases a 3-D winter wonderland scene and holiday decorations in two large exhibit halls featuring over 60 local artists and crafters selling handmade jewelry, pottery, ornaments, home decor, soaps, garden art, and so much more. Also, enjoy an array of baked goods and the center’s boutiques and shops. 9 AM-5 PM. $1 Admission. 31 Cross Street, Spruce Pine
Polar Express Train
Nov 10, 2023Ride to the North Pole on the Polar Express Train at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad to pick up Santa. It's fun for all ages. Departs from Bryson City. See our guide for all the details.
Ride to the North Pole on the Polar Express Train at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad to pick up Santa. It's fun for all ages. Departs from Bryson City. See our guide for all the details.
Toe River Studio Tour
Nov 10, 2023 - Nov 12, 2023Self-driving tour to discover studios of 100+ artists and craftsmen, many internationally-known and from the acclaimed Penland School of Crafts. A blend of contemporary and traditional art -… read more
Self-driving tour to discover studios of 100+ artists and craftsmen, many internationally-known and from the acclaimed Penland School of Crafts. A blend of contemporary and traditional art - Burnsville and Spruce Pine area. Free admission!
Aluminum Christmas Tree Museum
Nov 11, 2023 - Jan 20, 2023This quirky exhibit in downtown Brevard features dozens of vintage aluminum Christmas trees and more than 400 Shiny Brite ornaments and tree toppers inside the Transylvania Heritage Museum. This… read more
This quirky exhibit in downtown Brevard features dozens of vintage aluminum Christmas trees and more than 400 Shiny Brite ornaments and tree toppers inside the Transylvania Heritage Museum. This year's event will also feature a room devoted to Elvis with blue aluminum trees and Elvis memorabilia and a mid-century modern train village. A fun trip back in time! Thurs-Sat. Free admission.
River District Artists Studio Stroll
Nov 11, 2023 - Nov 12, 2023Head to the River Arts District near downtown Asheville to find 180+ artists at work in 25 converted industrial buildings along the river. Great deals on art! 10 AM-5 PM. Free admission. See our… read more
Head to the River Arts District near downtown Asheville to find 180+ artists at work in 25 converted industrial buildings along the river. Great deals on art! 10 AM-5 PM. Free admission. See our guide for details.
Christmas Wonderland Lights @ Tryon
Nov 16, 2023 - Jan 01, 2024Drive through an extravangant, 2-mile Christmas light show, synchronized to music at the Tryon International Equestrian Center - open every night of the week.
Drive through an extravangant, 2-mile Christmas light show, synchronized to music at the Tryon International Equestrian Center - open every night of the week.
Winter Lights at the NC Arboretum
Nov 17, 2023 - Dec 31, 2023Returning to the gardens this year, the popular show will return to the traditional outdoor walk-through open-air format with glowing landscapes and plenty of new displays. The show will include… read more
Returning to the gardens this year, the popular show will return to the traditional outdoor walk-through open-air format with glowing landscapes and plenty of new displays. The show will include the 50ft lighted tree, Quilt Garden, many of your favorite lighted designs, and new ones for 2021! We are delighted to be a sponsor of this festive event.
Asheville Holiday Parade
Nov 18, 2023Downtown, 9 AM. A fun and creative parade that kicks off Asheville's holiday season with marching bands, floats, dance and theater troupes, walking groups and Santa Claus himself.
Downtown, 9 AM. A fun and creative parade that kicks off Asheville's holiday season with marching bands, floats, dance and theater troupes, walking groups and Santa Claus himself.
Marshall Handmade Market, Marshall
Nov 18, 2023 - Nov 19, 2023This arts festival & holiday market is held indoors at Marshall High Studios on Blannahassatt Island in the French Broad River, 25 minutes north of Asheville. Classrooms-turned-studios open… read more
This arts festival & holiday market is held indoors at Marshall High Studios on Blannahassatt Island in the French Broad River, 25 minutes north of Asheville. Classrooms-turned-studios open their doors for 60 artists to share process and art. Food trucks too. Free admission. 10 AM-5 PM
Thanksgiving Day & Weekend
Nov 23, 2023See things to do on the holiday weekend, including the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day. Kick off the holiday season in style!
See things to do on the holiday weekend, including the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day. Kick off the holiday season in style!
Forest City Hometown Holiday Lights
Nov 23, 2023 - Jan 01, 2024See the million lights that create a magical Main Street in our top Christmas Town Forest City with many events throughout, including carriage rides. Lighting ceremony on Thanksgiving Day.
See the million lights that create a magical Main Street in our top Christmas Town Forest City with many events throughout, including carriage rides. Lighting ceremony on Thanksgiving Day.
Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Nov 24, 2023 - Dec 21, 2023Experience this dazzling holiday celebration! This all-new show comes to life with a cast of Flat Rock favorites, bringing magic and merriment to the stage- capturing the spirit of the holidays… read more
Experience this dazzling holiday celebration! This all-new show comes to life with a cast of Flat Rock favorites, bringing magic and merriment to the stage- capturing the spirit of the holidays with seasonal classics and new adaptations and medleys.
Hendersonville Home for the Holidays
Nov 24, 2023Main Street twinkles with thousands of lights with many festive events including hayrides, tours, ice skating, and fantastic shopping.
Main Street twinkles with thousands of lights with many festive events including hayrides, tours, ice skating, and fantastic shopping.
Arts & Crafts Drive-About Tour
Nov 24, 2023 - Nov 25, 2023Take a free self-guided driving tour of the galleries and working studios of Graham and Swain Counties and buy arts and crafts directly from the artist. Pick up a map at the Stecoah Valley… read more
Take a free self-guided driving tour of the galleries and working studios of Graham and Swain Counties and buy arts and crafts directly from the artist. Pick up a map at the Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center near Fontana Lake. 10 AM-5 PM.
Mountain Artisans Hard Candy Christmas
Nov 24, 2023 - Nov 25, 2023Shop from more than 100 regional artisans at this folk and heritage craft show! The show has everything from quilters to soap makers, basket makers, leather craftsmen, master jewelers, and more.… read more
Shop from more than 100 regional artisans at this folk and heritage craft show! The show has everything from quilters to soap makers, basket makers, leather craftsmen, master jewelers, and more. Since 1987, this event has grown yearly and is now held at Western Carolina University’s Ramsey Center in Cullowhee, NC. Children under 12 are free. Free parking is available on-site.
Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas
Nov 24, 2023 - Dec 21, 2023Experience this dazzling holiday celebration! This all-new show comes to life with a cast of Flat Rock favorites, bringing magic and merriment to the stage- capturing the spirit of the holidays… read more
Experience this dazzling holiday celebration! This all-new show comes to life with a cast of Flat Rock favorites, bringing magic and merriment to the stage- capturing the spirit of the holidays with seasonal classics and new adaptations and medleys.
A Mountain Christmas Trail of Lights
Nov 25, 2023 - Dec 31, 2023Enjoy 15 miles of twinkling lights and displays through the small towns of Spruce Pine and Bakersville, with many holiday happenings throughout the month. While you’re there, choose and cut your… read more
Enjoy 15 miles of twinkling lights and displays through the small towns of Spruce Pine and Bakersville, with many holiday happenings throughout the month. While you’re there, choose and cut your christmas tree at a local farm with fun activities like hayrides, hot cocoa, s’mores and pictures with Santa!
National Gingerbread House Competition
Nov 27, 2023 - Jan 02, 2024Sip hot cocoa and stroll through the amazing gingerbread house displays at The National Gingerbread Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville!
Sip hot cocoa and stroll through the amazing gingerbread house displays at The National Gingerbread Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville!
Lake Julian Festival of Lights
Dec 01, 2023 - Dec 23, 2023This drive-through light show in South Asheville features 50 animated light displays and thousands of colored lights in a lakeside park. This year, at least the first two days should be a walk-… read more
This drive-through light show in South Asheville features 50 animated light displays and thousands of colored lights in a lakeside park. This year, at least the first two days should be a walk-through experience! $10 per car. 6-9 PM. Tickets must be purchased online.
Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries
Dec 01, 2023 - Dec 02, 2023 - Dec 08, 2023 - Dec 09, 2023Experience the magic as the charming village is transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, candles, laughter, and song! Shopkeepers provide live music and serve holiday treats with hot cider… read more
Experience the magic as the charming village is transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, candles, laughter, and song! Shopkeepers provide live music and serve holiday treats with hot cider and cocoa.
Small Town Christmas, Banner Elk
Dec 01, 2023 - Dec 03, 2023Many events during this weekend in our top ski town of Banner Elk. Tree lighting and variety show on Friday evening. Saturday highlights include a 5k, Alpaca Farm tours, holiday market, and more.… read more
Many events during this weekend in our top ski town of Banner Elk. Tree lighting and variety show on Friday evening. Saturday highlights include a 5k, Alpaca Farm tours, holiday market, and more. In the evening, Tate-Evans Park has train rides, luminaries, and light shows. Take home a Christmas Tree from a farm.
Small Town Christmas, Rutherfordton
Dec 02, 2023Many events along Main Street throughout the day 1-9 PM. Shop sidewalk vendors at the Christmas Market from 1-5 PM and stroll by the storefront windows featuring live interactive displays 2-4 PM.… read more
Many events along Main Street throughout the day 1-9 PM. Shop sidewalk vendors at the Christmas Market from 1-5 PM and stroll by the storefront windows featuring live interactive displays 2-4 PM. Christmas Parade at 5 PM. Tree lighting at 6:30 PM at Courthouse. All free to attend.
Guild Holiday Makers Sale at the Folk Art Center
Dec 02, 2023 - Dec 09, 2023Get great deals on amazing art directly from the artists, offering over-runs, discontinued stock, and studio seconds in a festive atmosphere. And don't miss the special exhibits and main store at… read more
Get great deals on amazing art directly from the artists, offering over-runs, discontinued stock, and studio seconds in a festive atmosphere. And don't miss the special exhibits and main store at the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Free admission. 10 AM-4 PM.
Santa on the Chimney
Dec 02, 2023Watch Santa practice for his world-wide chimney-dropping tour on his "practice chimney," the 312 ft. tall Chimney Rock monolith. Included with park admission.
Watch Santa practice for his world-wide chimney-dropping tour on his "practice chimney," the 312 ft. tall Chimney Rock monolith. Included with park admission.
Candlelight Stroll, Weaverville
Dec 08, 2023Main Street Weaverville is illuminated for this festive evening with music, entertainment, Santa, kid activities, carolers, refreshments, horse carriage rides, and more. Also stroll through local… read more
Main Street Weaverville is illuminated for this festive evening with music, entertainment, Santa, kid activities, carolers, refreshments, horse carriage rides, and more. Also stroll through local shops for gifts! 6-9 PM.
Holiday Sip & Shop, Grovewood Gallery
Dec 08, 2023 - Dec 09, 2023Head to Grovewood Gallery for various unique holiday gifts, including ceramic tableware, wooden bowls and utensils, blown glass, fine jewelry, handwoven scarves, letterpress greeting cards, and… read more
Head to Grovewood Gallery for various unique holiday gifts, including ceramic tableware, wooden bowls and utensils, blown glass, fine jewelry, handwoven scarves, letterpress greeting cards, and much more. Wine and non-alcoholic cider will be available for sipping! 11 AM-4 PM. (Photo credit: Ryan Theede)
A Night Before Christmas
Dec 09, 2023 - Dec 16, 2023Downtown Waynesville's historic Main Street area's shops, galleries and restaurants open late from 6-9 PM with live music, live carolers, Bethlehem market place and live natvity, old-fashioned… read more
Downtown Waynesville's historic Main Street area's shops, galleries and restaurants open late from 6-9 PM with live music, live carolers, Bethlehem market place and live natvity, old-fashioned wagon rides, Santa & Mrs. Claus, storytelling, luminary-lined streets and more. Small town Christmas at its finest.
Carolina Christmas Show
Dec 20, 2023 - Dec 22, 2023This Broadway-style show in Marion features live music, dancing, and comedy sure to put you in the holiday spirit! There are four performances to choose from throughout the weekend. Tickets are $… read more
This Broadway-style show in Marion features live music, dancing, and comedy sure to put you in the holiday spirit! There are four performances to choose from throughout the weekend. Tickets are $12-25.
Christmas Day & Week Things to Do
Dec 22, 2023Find things to do and restaurants open on Christmas Day and week in Asheville, Biltmore and the surrounding mountain towns.
Find things to do and restaurants open on Christmas Day and week in Asheville, Biltmore and the surrounding mountain towns.
New Year's Eve
Dec 31, 2023Head to downtown Asheville for many dining and entertainment choices or go to celebrations throughout WNC. Special events on Jan 1st too. See our top New Year Celebrations and Things to Do.
Head to downtown Asheville for many dining and entertainment choices or go to celebrations throughout WNC. Special events on Jan 1st too. See our top New Year Celebrations and Things to Do.
New Years Eve Golden Nugget Drop
Dec 31, 2023Gather on Main Street in downtown Marion on New Year's Eve night to watch the giant golden nugget drop into a pot of gold. Many activities include a fun run, music, food, craft vendors, and more… read more
Gather on Main Street in downtown Marion on New Year's Eve night to watch the giant golden nugget drop into a pot of gold. Many activities include a fun run, music, food, craft vendors, and more!
Winter Events & Valentine Outings
Jan 01, 2024See our top picks for things to do and events in January, February and March - including Valentine's Weekend!
See our top picks for things to do and events in January, February and March - including Valentine's Weekend!
Past Events
Italian Renaissance Alive at Biltmore
Mar 03, 2023 - Jan 07, 2024Making its world premiere at Biltmore, this all-new multi-sensory experience takes you on a captivating tour across Italy and brings iconic masterpieces to life with a captivating, educational,… read more
Making its world premiere at Biltmore, this all-new multi-sensory experience takes you on a captivating tour across Italy and brings iconic masterpieces to life with a captivating, educational, and unforgettable experience!
Christmas Jam
Dec 10, 2022Don't miss this long running, one-of-a-kind music festival at Harrah's Cherokee Center which benefits Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity. Performers include the Grateful Dead’s Phil Lesh &… read more
Don't miss this long running, one-of-a-kind music festival at Harrah's Cherokee Center which benefits Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity. Performers include the Grateful Dead’s Phil Lesh & Friends, Tyler Childers, Gov’t Mule, Beth Hart, Brothers Osborne, and Dinosaur Jr.
Asheville Nativity: Creche-Fest (Virtual)
Dec 01, 2020 - Dec 31, 2020See a virtual display of 300+ Nativity sets from 60+ countries, hosted at First Baptist Church in downtown Asheville (5 Oak Street). Go to their website for details.
See a virtual display of 300+ Nativity sets from 60+ countries, hosted at First Baptist Church in downtown Asheville (5 Oak Street). Go to their website for details.
