While every season offers something unique in Asheville. There’s nothing quite like Asheville during the holidays. This whirlwind of a season can fly by, so here are some events in the Western North Carolina area that we recommend for slowing down and appreciating this time of year.
Christmas at the Biltmore Estate: Nov 1 – Jan 5, 2020
This is the event that by-and-large we get asked the most about. America’s largest privately-owned home is decked out with all the beauty and grandeur of the holiday season. The house is accessible with a daytime ticket before 4:30 pm, but this time of year only you have an evening option. Biltmore Candlelight Evenings take place after the house usually closes, and requires a formal reservation. Enjoy Biltmore in the ambiance of lit fireplaces and over 50 Christmas trees, including a 35-ft live tree. One-day Daytime tickets are $85 if purchased in our office. Give us a call at (800)235-2474 to ask about Candlelight tickets.
Lake Julian Festival of the Lights: Nov 30 – Dec 23, 2019
First two nights you can walk through, rest of the dates allow for a leisurely drive through the twinkling display. The “walk” dates are $5/adult and kids are free. The rest of the drive through dates are by car ($10/passenger vehicle). This is located near the thermally cooled lake Julian. This is a family-friendly event, and the area is pretty stroller friendly. During the “drive” days, 20% of proceeds benefits the Buncombe County Special Olympics.
Winter Lights at the NC Arboretum: Nov 22 – Jan 4, 2020
Walk through what is already pretty spectacular – the NC Arboretum gardens – in the winter evenings with sparkling LED lights decorating the trees and plants. The artfully curated light display the Arboretum is a newer tradition in Asheville, but a popular one nonetheless! Every year folks plan for their hot chocolate fix in the gorgeous gardens. Tickets must be purchased in advance online. These tickets are $18 for adults (12+), $12 for children (5 – 11). 6 – 10 pm nightly, but make sure to get to the entrance by 9 pm. Bundle up! This light display is walk-through.
Polar Express Ride with the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad: Nov 8 – Dec 31, 2020
For the child and the child inside of all of us, this ride will make you believe! Based on the prevalent book and film, this ride puts you on a festive track through the beautiful mountainside, decked out in your pajamas. This ride is through Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, an authentic train depot located in Bryson City, NC. Year-round the GSMR has themed rides: there are cool summer options such as the Wizard of Oz ride, as well as Autumn rides that perfectly display the beauty of Fall foliage. In the winter, the closed cars are turned into a magical Santa train.
Shadracks Christmas Wonderland in Tryon, NC: Nov 15 – Jan 5, 2020.
Just 42 miles from our cabins, this display should be worth the drive. Located at the new Tryon International Equestrian Center, this is a synchronized music show, with light displays moving along to music tuned to your very own car radio.
Gingerbread House at the Grove Park Inn: Nov 20 – Jan 4, 2020
This is a deliciously sweet display for the holidays! The competition participants show off their spiced and sweet sculptures, and see the winning entries up close! Only open to the public Sun – Thursday, Sunday after 3 pm. Admission is free, but parking is $25. All entries must be edible except the base, but honestly, these are way too pretty to eat!
Asheville Cabins of Willow Winds offers one, two, and three-bedroom cabins beautifully situated in a woodland wonderland! With soothing hot tubs and wood-burning fireplaces, this is the spot to spend your holidays. Want to share the love? Purchase one of our gift certificates for someone who deserves a relaxing trip to Asheville.
