2026 Holiday Itinerary: Warm Your Heart in Downtown Asheville
The spirit of the season shines brighter in Asheville, where holiday magic fills every corner of the mountains.
Downtown sparkles with cheer as artists, makers, chefs, and performers welcome you into a season of celebration. Holiday markets, special events, and traditions old and new highlight the creativity and warmth that make Appalachia so special this time of year.
With dozens of beloved downtown restaurants open through the holidays (including on Thanksgiving Day), endless opportunities for handcrafted shopping, and a vibrant arts scene, Asheville offers plenty of ways to shop, sip, and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
Here's one day in downtown Asheville to kick off the season:
Eat, Drink and Be Merry
One of your many options for holiday feasting is Bargello, open from noon to 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day (reservations required). Bargello serves breakfast daily from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and dinner Wednesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. This upscale yet lowkey Italian eatery is located on the ground floor of the Kimpton Hotel Arras in the heart of downtown Asheville.
Check out the long list of Asheville area restaurants open for Thanksgiving here. >>
Refuel with Coffee & Art
For a cozy post-Thanksgiving pick-me-up, step into Old Europe Pastries, a downtown Asheville staple. Known as Asheville’s oldest coffee shop, this beloved spot serves up rich European-style coffee alongside decadent desserts, flaky pastries, and seasonal treats that make the holidays even sweeter. Just steps from Pack Square, it’s the perfect place to warm up, indulge, and savor a taste of Old World charm in the heart of downtown.
Browse Inspiring Galleries
Be sure to stop by Bender Gallery in downtown Asheville, where a dynamic mix of contemporary and thought-provoking works awaits. From emerging local artists to internationally recognized creators, the gallery offers a vibrant space to explore, experience, and be inspired by the city’s thriving art scene. Bender Gallery is closed on Wednesdays.
Hop on the Big Purple Bus
Perhaps you’d rather sit down for a few belly laughs after a holiday meal? Hop on the big purple bus! Local comedy troupe LaZoom has launched their seasonal Hey Asheville: Holiday Tour that fuses holly jolly with its tried-and-true brand of zany sightseeing adventure to keep guests laughing all the way.
Take it Easy
After a long day of eating, laughing, and art-gazing, you might need a nightcap – luckily, The Tiki Easy Bar is right around the corner. A mythical island speakeasy hidden behind Hi-Wire’s South Slope Specialty Brewing, Tiki Easy boasts the largest selection of rare and historic rums in North Carolina.
See more bars serving wine & craft beverage here. >>