WNC is hitting the high notes with parades, pulsating light shows, unique artisan markets, and music that warms you from the inside out. If you’re looking to trade routine for revelry and cozy comfort for unforgettable community gatherings, lace up your boots and grab your holiday spirit—the mountains are ready to show you how to celebrate.
The Main Attractions: Spectacles & Light Shows
These large-scale events promise big thrills and dazzling views throughout the weekend:
Christmas at Biltmore (Asheville, Buncombe County):
Experience the ultimate holiday spectacle with Daytime tours or the breathtaking Candlelight Christmas Evenings.
The estate is transformed with festive décor, roaring fireplaces, lights, and seasonal music.
Dates: December 5–7.
Winter Lights at The North Carolina Arboretum (Asheville, Buncombe County):
An immersive, outdoor walk through millions of LED lights.
Features the massive 50-foot lighted tree and the illuminated Thomas Dambo's Trolls art installation.
Dates & Times: Daily, including December 5-7, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Santa on the Chimney (Chimney Rock, Rutherford County):
Santa Claus practices for Christmas Eve by rappelling down the 315-foot Chimney Rock spire.
Includes a chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus music and seasonal treats.
Date & Time: Saturday, Dec 6, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
Winterfest at Tryon International (Mill Spring, Polk County):
A spectacular 2-mile drive-through Christmas light show synchronized to music.
Also features on-site ice skating at the Tryon International Equestrian Center.
Dates: December 5–7.
Parades, Community, and Main Street Merriment
The region's towns come alive with parades, unique happenings, and local events:
Franklin Winter Wonderland: Night Two (Macon County):
Date & Time: Saturday, Dec 6, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Details: Historic Downtown transforms with Free Hay Rides, an Ugly Sweater Competition at the Gazebo, visits with Santa, food trucks, and late merchant shopping.
Highlands Christmas Parade (Macon County):
Date & Time: Saturday, Dec 6, Begins at 10:00 AM.
Details: A classic small-town parade on Main Street featuring bands, creative floats, and the grand arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Santa will be available for visits at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park after the parade until 3:00 PM.
Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries (Jackson County):
Dates & Times: Friday & Saturday, Dec 5–6, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Details: The town is illuminated by over 2,500 candles and twinkling white lights. Shops are open late with refreshments, strolling carolers, and horse-drawn wagon rides.
Black Mountain Holly Jolly Celebration & Parade (Buncombe County):
Dates: Friday & Saturday, Dec 5–6.
Details: A town-wide celebration featuring luminaries, food, carolers, and the annual Parade through downtown.
Hendersonville Christmas Parade (Henderson County):
Date & Time: Saturday, Dec 6, 6:00 PM.
Details: The major annual evening parade through downtown Hendersonville.
Mars Hill Christmas Parade (Madison County):
Date: Saturday, Dec 6.
Details: The annual holiday parade on Main Street.
Sylva Christmas Parade (Jackson County):
Date: Sunday, Dec 7.
Details: A community holiday parade in downtown Sylva.
Music and Theater: Performance Highlights
Catch a show or concert to enjoy the sounds of the season:
Balsam Range Art of Music Festival (Lake Junaluska, Haywood County):
Dates: Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6.
Details: A premier bluegrass festival featuring the award-winning host band Balsam Range with the Atlanta Pops Orchestra Ensemble and other top groups.
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical (Asheville, Buncombe County):
Dates: December 5–7.
Details: A festive stage production perfect for the whole family at the Asheville Community Theatre.
Home For The Holidays: Spirit of the Season (Highlands, Macon County):
Dates: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, Dec 5–7.
Details: The annual holiday spectacular—a 90-minute festive music revue packed with dazzling costumes and traditional seasonal music at the Highlands Playhouse.
Celtic Christmas (Otto, Macon County):
Date & Time: Friday, Dec 5, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
Details: A spirited community event celebrating the traditions of Scotland and Ireland with lively fiddle tunes, stories, and singers.
Shopping and Crafting Opportunities
The Big Crafty (Asheville, Buncombe County):
Dates & Times: Saturday & Sunday, Dec 6–7, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
Details: A massive artisan fair featuring over 180 artists and makers at Harrah's Cherokee Center – Asheville.
Marshall Christmas on Main (Marshall, Madison County):
Date: Saturday, Dec 6.
Details: An affordable street market with over 80 vendors.
Artisan Christmas Market (Franklin, Macon County):
Date & Time: Saturday, Dec 6, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
Details: A market for holiday shopping, featuring unique local arts and crafts at the Community Building.
Bullington Gardens Holiday Greenery & Craft Celebration (Hendersonville, Henderson County):
Dates: Friday, Dec 5, and Saturday, Dec 6.
Details: A market focused on holiday wreaths, greenery, and handcrafted gifts.
Before you bundle up and hit the road, always confirm event times and check for any weather-related cancellations or changes with the specific venues or event organizers.
WNCTimes