A Local's Guide to Things to Do in Asheville at Christmas
Asheville can become a magical place during the Christmas holidays.
There's something about Asheville in December — woodsmoke drifting over the neighborhoods, string lights wrapped around porch railings along Montford Avenue, the Blue Ridge mountains dusted in frost — that makes the whole season feel a little more magical here than most places. Whether you're chasing the glow of a million lights, hunting for the best gingerbread house you've ever seen, or just looking for a reason to sip hot cocoa somewhere pretty, this town delivers.
As a local, I've put together my go-to list of the events and experiences around Asheville to help you get in the holiday spirit — plus notes on what to book ahead.
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My Experience in Asheville
I grew up in Asheville, NC and have called it home since the early '90s. Many of the festive events and attractions I've included here aren't just something I did once — they're holiday traditions. Without them, the Christmas season would feel a little incomplete. Of course, there are a few things that have gone away and new events that have filled their shoes over the last 30 years — the activities here are some of my favorites and would be deserving of a place on any Asheville holiday itinerary.
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My Favorite Things to Do in Asheville During the Holiday Season
Christmas at Biltmore Estate
November 3, 2026 – January 10, 2027
Biltmore goes all-in for the holidays, and it's the event most people picture when they think "Christmas in Asheville." Candlelight Christmas Evenings transform Biltmore House into a warm, flickering spectacle after dark — thousands of candles, live music echoing through the halls, and the whole estate feels like something out of a period drama (if you are having a little fomo or want to get in the spirit before you arrive in Asheville, check out Hallmark Channel's A Biltmore Christmas). During the day, Antler Hill Village gets its own festive treatment with shopping, tastings, and seasonal activities for the whole family.
Candlelight tours aren't the only way to see the Biltmore House during the holiday season. The house itself is dressed in full holiday decor, including its famous towering Christmas tree in the Banquet Hall, and self-guided house tours are available daily. This is how we typically experienced holidays at Biltmore when I was growing up, followed by lunch at the Stable Cafe and wandering through the gift shop (filling up even more on free pretzel and Vidalia Onion dressing samples). One year, I even remember my mom performing with a flute group in the Winter Garden to entertain guests as they wandered through the opulent halls draped in garland.
Or, for those looking for a romantic holiday experience, you can live out your own Hallmark movie moment with a carriage ride around the estate to round out your day.
Local Tip: Unsurprisingly, this is one of the busiest times of year on the estate and Candlelight evenings sell out, especially on weekends, so book your tickets as early as you can. Parking and shuttle logistics can take a bit longer with the bigger crowds, so plan for extra time getting in and out of the estate.
Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum
November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027
This isn't your average Christmas lights display. Winter Lights brings millions of lights to the North Carolina Arboretum, including a 50-foot lighted tree, an illuminated Quilt Garden, and delightful creatures that could call the Arboretum home brought to life in stunning light installations. It's a slower, more immersive walk-through experience than a typical drive-through light show, which makes it a great pick if you want something a little more atmospheric.
Local tip: Wear warm layers — you'll be walking outdoors for close to an hour, and evenings here get cold. This event frequently sells out. Timed tickets are recommended in advance.
Omni Grove Park Inn — National Gingerbread House Competition
November 16, 2026 – January 3, 2027
The Omni Grove Park Inn turns into a full holiday experience this time of year. The highlight is the National Gingerbread House Competition, where elaborate, competition-grade gingerbread houses are on display at this historic hotel — some of these builds are astonishing in their detail. Beyond the competition, the Inn's corridors are lined with Christmas trees and holiday decor, making it a beautiful (and free-to-wander) stop even if you're not staying overnight.
The gingerbread display started in the mid-'90s. And, before it had the national attention that it does now — drawing visitors from across the country — we'd venture out for a night wandering the halls to enjoy the Christmas trees and sing carols by the massive fireplace. Half of Santa would be hanging in the chimney of the unlit fireplace and my dad would help me look for reindeer on the roof of the historic inn. It's a little more crowded these days but still incredibly magical.
Local tip: The gingerbread viewing hours are more limited for those not staying on site or with a confirmed dining reservation. Check the Omni Grove Park Inn website for exact hours and parking information.
Christmas Jam
2026 dates TBD
Live music lovers will love this one. Christmas Jam is presented annually by Warren Haynes, best known for his work with the Allman Brothers Band and Gov't Mule, and it's become something of an Asheville tradition. The lineup usually leans jam-band, with a rotating cast of well-known musicians joining Haynes on stage.
The event took a year off in 2024 following Hurricane Helene but returned in 2025. It typically lands in early-to-mid December, though exact 2026 dates haven't been announced yet — worth checking back on this closer to the date.
Local tip: This one tends to sell out fast once dates and tickets are announced, so if you're a fan, keep an eye on official announcements rather than waiting.
Holiday Ice Rink at Asheville Yards
November 20, 2026 – January 18, 2027
A straightforward but reliably fun addition to the season that started in 2025 — the outdoor ice rink at Asheville Yards is a good option for a casual evening out, whether you're an experienced skater or it's your first time on the ice. It's centrally located downtown and features fun cocktails and a quirky holiday display, making it easy to pair with dinner or holiday shopping nearby.
Local tip: Skate sessions are 2 hours each and sell out on evenings and weekends — book in advance if you are able. For those hoping for less crowded ice, an early afternoon session on a weekday is your best bet.
Ski & Snowboard: Cataloochee and Hatley Pointe
If you'd rather be on the mountain than under the lights, Asheville is close to two solid winter sports options. Cataloochee Ski Area, about 50 minutes west of Asheville in Maggie Valley, is the state's oldest ski area and offers a mix of beginner-through-advanced terrain. Hatley Pointe (formerly Wolf Ridge), about 30 minutes north in Mars Hill, has been rebranded into a boutique mountain resort with beginner-friendly slopes, lessons, and a terrain park — making it a great pick if you're skiing with beginners or just want something closer to town. For those looking for a more low-key way to enjoy the snow, Cataloochee Ski Area also offers snow tubing at their "Tube World."
Local tip: Check each resort's website for real-time snow conditions and lift ticket pricing before you go — both fluctuate throughout the season.
Honorable Mention: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express
November 6, 2026 – January 3, 2027
Total transparency: this one is more family- and kid-focused, and since we don't have children, I've never actually been. But I've heard amazing things about the Polar Express, hosted by the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, which departs out of Bryson City, about 45 minutes outside of Asheville. The train ride immerses visitors in the Polar Express story as chefs serve hot chocolate and sweet treats while singing and dancing to the North Pole. On the return trip, Santa Claus visits each historical train car to hand out the first gift of Christmas to each child.
If you've been and have first-hand tips, I'd love to hear them!
FAQs
When should I visit Asheville to see the most holiday events?
Early-to-mid December tends to be the sweet spot — most events are already running, but you'll generally see smaller crowds than the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas itself.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
For most of the big-ticket events — Biltmore's Candlelight Evenings and Winter Lights especially — yes. These routinely sell out on popular nights, so booking as soon as you have your travel plans set is the safer move.
Is Asheville cold in December?
Expect chilly nights that often dip below freezing, with milder (but still cold) days. Pack layers, especially for outdoor events like Winter Lights or the ice rink.
What's the most kid-friendly holiday event near Asheville?
The Polar Express in Bryson City is the classic pick for families with young kids, alongside the National Gingerbread House Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn.
Are any of these good for a date night or trip as a couple?
Yes, there are plenty of romantic moments to be had during Asheville's holiday season. Biltmore's Candlelight Evenings or Winter Lights are perfect standalone activities for a magical evening. For a full date, consider dinner reservations at the Grove Park Inn paired with viewing the Gingerbread display and a nightcap cocktail at Elaine's Dueling Piano Bar. For something more lighthearted, head out to the Holiday Ice Rink for a great date night.
How far are these events from downtown Asheville?
Most are within a 10-50 minute drive — the Holiday Ice Rink is in downtown, and the Grove Park, Arboretum and Biltmore are 10-20 minutes away. Cataloochee, Hatley Pointe, and the Polar Express in Bryson City require a bit more of a drive into the surrounding mountains.
Where should I stay in Asheville for the Holidays?
I say this totally depends on the type of holiday getaway you'd like to have. There are tons of wonderful hotel options in downtown Asheville if you're looking to be central to plentiful shopping and dining options. For weekend stays where you want to guarantee access to the Grove Park, consider booking a room there (these sell out well in advance, so book a few months out for the best availability). If you're hoping for something with more of a cozy vibe and a fireplace to curl up to at the end of the night, the surrounding mountain towns have ample cozy cabin options.
Does Asheville have a Christmas parade?
Yes, the Asheville Christmas Parade celebrates its 80th year in 2026. It's presented by the Asheville Downtown Association and typically takes place the Saturday before Thanksgiving.
Final Thoughts on Christmas Time in Asheville
However you spend your December in Asheville, the holidays here have a way of feeling both grand and cozy at the same time — a candlelit mansion one night, a mug of cocoa by a fire the next. My advice: pick two or three of these that fit your style, book your tickets early, and leave a little room in your schedule to just wander downtown and soak it in (The Grove Arcade decked in holiday lights is worth wandering through even if you aren't shopping!). That's usually where the best memories end up happening anyway.
Have a favorite Asheville holiday tradition I missed? Let me know — I'm always adding to this list.
Would you like help planning your Western North Carolina getaway? I'd love to help!
Hi, I’m Jess
I’m here to help you plan epic adventures. If you’re looking for authentic travel guides that mix luxe lodging and incredible dining with out of this world hikes and adventures, you’re in the right place.
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