Holidays In The High Country
As the vibrant autumn leaves turn to glistening snow, a magical time in the High Country begins: the holiday season. In this charming winter wonderland setting, twinkling lights line the streets and old fashioned Christmas spirit fills the air. The High Country is home to holiday celebrations and winter activities galore. Here are a few of our favorites!
For a good dose of family fun, head over to Tweetsie Railroad for a Christmas spectacular from November 19 – December 30. Here, you can take an open-air train ride festively decorated with Christmas lights. Plus, amusement rides and the live Christmas show provide fun for all ages. If you are looking for a holiday photo opportunity, head over to meet Santa and Mrs. Clause in their gingerbread house! Finally, finish the night off by roasting a few marshmallows over the fire and enjoying the gooey goodness of s’mores.
Blowing Rock’s Christmas in the Park is another tradition you don’t want to miss! This year, this two day festival begins November 25 and is free to the public (including parking). Friday features an opportunity to meet Santa, participate in carnival games, listen to live music, and enjoy the annual Lighting of the Town event. The next day, take part in a local hit: the annual Blowing Rock Christmas parade. This small town parade is the epitome of holiday spirit from decorated floats to carolers and costumes.
A classic activity steeped in tradition, there is nothing quite like choosing and cutting the perfect Christmas tree to decorate. Frasier firs, the most popular of the Christmas tree choices, is native to the High Country. So, as you can imagine, there is no shortage of options when it comes to Christmas Tree farms. Some of these farms offer additional activities such as Christmas treats, live music, and hayrides!
In the High Country, skiing is a winter time staple! Appalachian Ski Mountain, located just minutes from the gates of Blue Ridge Mountain Club, is the perfect place to ride the slopes. Lessons are available for beginners while there are plenty of more challenging areas for those with more experience. For a more unique experience, Appalachian Ski Mountain offers Midnight Ski from December 26 – January 2—the only late night ski adventure offered in the area.
From sledding to decorated railroads, the holiday celebrations here are filled with an unmatched level of wintertime charm. No matter what age, the holiday season is always a magical one in the High Country.
