Asheville Holiday And Christmas Things To Do

Winter and Holiday Happenings in Asheville

Thanksgiving and November are over, and most of the colorful leaves that draw people to the Asheville area in the fall are dropping off the trees, clearing room to usher in the beginning of the winter holidays. Luckily, Asheville is a town that fully embraces the changes and accompanying festivities. Celebrate the season like a local by checking out some of the events listed here.

Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Candlelight Christmas Evenings run now through Jan. 5. The evening hours see the Lady on the Hill illuminated by candlelight and blazing fires in many of its 65 fireplaces, as well as festive decor, ornamented trees, live musicians, and luminaries lighting the paths leading to the entrance.

Self-guided tours of the estate in its candlelit glory begin at 5:30 p.m., but reservations are required and may be made on the Biltmore website, by calling 800-411-3812, or by visiting the ticketing sales center. Biltmore recommends arriving at least 45 minutes before your entry time to park and venture to the house. Candlelight tickets are good for admission to the house during the day of purchase, as well.

Weekends in December also feature visits with Santa at the bandstand from 1-5, as well as a Bonfire and S’mores in Antler Hill Village.

Around Town

NC Arboretum

The annual NC Arboretum Winter Lights display runs nightly from 6-10 p.m. until Dec. 31, and features 500,000 multicolored energy-efficient LED lights throughout the property.

The 26th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition™_

The top gingerbread house makers in the country show off their creations to the nation every year at the Omni Grove Park Inn. The winning houses, as well as their competition, are on display throughout the main floor of the resort, and available to the public for viewing through January 4.

The Big Crafty at the Cellular Center

As many as 130 artists and crafters will sell their wares Dec. 1 and 2 at the US Cellular Center. In addition to the numerous gifts and decor items for sale, enjoy beer from local breweries, and ice cream treats from The Hop.

Lake Julian Festival of Lights

Drive through an array of more than 50 animated lighting displays, December 2-23, from 6-9 p.m. Admission is $10 per passenger vehicle, and advanced tickets may be purchased online for $8. Twenty percent of the proceeds from admission is donated to Buncombe County Special Olympics.

Santa on the Chimney

For a truly unique visit to Old Saint Nick, visit Chimney Rock State Park on Dec. 1 or Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Santa on the Chimney. Santa shows off his excellent rappelling skills on the rock, and when he’s finished, he and Mrs. Claus will be available for meeting. Cookies, hot cocoa, and children’s activities will also be part of the festivities.

Did You Know?

Guests of Residences at Biltmore have the unique opportunity to purchase special value-added Biltmore tickets. Instead of just one day of fun at Biltmore, for $70 you’ll receive a 2 day pass (must be consecutive days). Click here or call us at 1-888-786-3648 to learn more.