Holidays in Asheville, N.C.

From twinkle lights to gingerbread, Asheville, North Carolina, brings a little sparkle to the holiday season. Plan a festive escape to our Blue Ridge Mountain city, and you’ll find an enormous celebration during Christmas at Biltmore, sweet traditions at the National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn and an after-dark wonderland at Winter Lights at the N.C. Arboretum.

Explore unique holiday shopping at independent boutiques and galleries in downtown Asheville and beyond. Gather around tables of local food at award-winning restaurants. Take in the refreshing winter views of surrounding mountains. And discover new traditions with classic holiday light displays, theater performances, activities for families and other Christmas and holiday events.

  • Holiday Happenings
  • 8 Ways Asheville Sparkles for the Holidays
    Every holiday season needs a little bit of sparkle—the twinkle of lights, the flicker of a fireplace, the shimmer of sugarplums or the glow of candlelight. Asheville, North Carolina brings all the sparkle—and gorgeous Blue Ridge
  • 8 Ways Asheville Sparkles for the Holidays8 Ways Asheville Sparkles for the Holidays
    Every holiday season needs a little bit of sparkle—the twinkle of lights, the flicker of a fireplace, the shimmer of sugarplums or the glow of candlelight. Asheville, North Carolina brings all the sparkle—and gorgeous Blue Ridge
  • Festive Happenings for Your Holiday GetawayFestive Happenings for Your Holiday Getaway
    Holiday magic for all ages Asheville is well known for going all out with its holiday celebrations. The season offers a mix of beloved holiday traditions, special events and pop-up markets. Here’s a list of festive celebrations and events
  • National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, N.C.National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, N.C.
    The Entries in the National Gingerbread House Competition Go On Display this Year in Asheville for the Holidays. 2022-2023 National Gingerbread House Competition Viewing: Nov. 28, 2022-Jan. 2, 2023 The National Gingerbread House Competition is a
  • 5 Crazy Reasons Why Asheville Should Top Your Holiday Travel List5 Crazy Reasons Why Asheville Should Top Your Holiday Travel List
    While you're making your list, and before you start checking it twice, be sure to add a trip to Asheville, North Carolina, to the top of your holiday to-do's. Why? Asheville takes the holidays to the next level with these five
  • Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum in AshevilleWinter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville
    It's called the brightest holiday tradition in Asheville! The North Carolina Arboretum’s annual Winter Lights , which began in 2014, features one million bright, energy-efficient LED lights throughout the nationally-known gardens. The
  • Dickens in the Village Festival in Asheville, N.C.Dickens in the Village Festival in Asheville, N.C.
    2022 Dickens in the Village: December 2 and 3 A beautiful historic district in Asheville transforms for a weekend during the holidays, transporting you back in time to the days of Charles Dickens and A Christmas Carol . On the first weekend of
Asheville Restaurants Open on Christmas and New Year's

Asheville Restaurants Open on Christmas and New Year's

Asheville welcomes you for the holidays! It's an exciting time to be in town as Asheville shines with twinkling lights, festive traditions and exciting New Year's celebrations! If you'll be here in the mountains for Christmas or New… read more

New Year's Eve Events in Asheville, N.C.

New Year's Eve Events in Asheville, N.C.

2023 is on the horizon, and in Asheville you can ring in the New Year with a number of spirited celebrations planned throughout town. Check back frequently for more events and ways to celebrate New Year's Eve in Asheville! 2022 Asheville New… read more

5 Great Winter Hikes Near Asheville

5 Great Winter Hikes Near Asheville

Warm Up On These Top Winter Hiking Trails Taking a winter hike offers many rewards! First of all, you’ll appreciate the refreshing temperatures as you climb a mountainside. Often, you’ll have the trail all to yourself since there are… read more

Top Places to See Holiday Lights in Asheville, N.C.

Top Places to See Holiday Lights in Asheville, N.C.

Few experiences embody the excitement of the holidays like enjoying a display of bright, twinkling Christmas lights and meticulously-designed decorations. Visitors to Asheville, N.C. can enjoy these dazzling, family-friendly light shows that are sure… read more

12 Family-Friendly Ways to Enjoy Winter in Asheville

12 Family-Friendly Ways to Enjoy Winter in Asheville

There’s plenty to do for the whole crew, indoors or out Avoid the crowds that come with fall, spring and summer, and enjoy Asheville with your family at the coolest time of the year. Games and Interactive Museums With more than 30 pinball… read more

Holiday Shopping Hot Spots in Asheville

Holiday Shopping Hot Spots in Asheville

Do your holiday shopping in Asheville Crisp mountain air combines with the smell of evergreens, spice-infused apple cider, and hot chocolate. In Biltmore Village carolers are singing the familiar songs of Christmas and on Asheville's street… read more

Decorating Tips from Biltmore

Decorating Tips from Biltmore

If you think decorating your home for the holidays can sometimes be a little overwhelming, imagine what it's like to deck the halls at a home with over 250 rooms! Decorators at Biltmore House, America's largest private home, have made… read more