If you want a unique holiday with your special someone or family, spend the holidays in Asheville. We have so many holiday activities and things to do you will have nothing less than an exciting, fun-filled time. From stunning homes and gardens decked out in holiday lights to parades and New Year’s Eve celebrations, you will have beautiful memories to share for years to come.
8 Best Things to Do for Holidays in Asheville
Visit Incredible Homes
The options for things to do during this holiday season are vast. A great place to start your holiday adventures is with a tour of the Biltmore house. The Christmas at Biltmore is one of our favorites. During Christmas at Biltmore, candles and fireplaces will fill the home with a warm glow. It will be accented with delicate ornaments and priceless treasures with sparkle and metallic shine while music warms your heart.
Additionally, if you love history, take a trip to Connemara, Carl Sandburg’s home. While it is not technically a holiday event, it is still worth stopping by to learn about the rich history of North Carolina.
Have a Special Dinner for the Holidays in Asheville
The Orchard Inn in Saluda
Reserve tickets for a Charles Dickens’ Dinners at the Orchard Inn. Enjoy a four-course meal with readings from A Christmas Carol. By the end of the meal, enjoy a Smoking Bishop in a candlelit atmosphere!
Enjoy an elegant evening celebrating New Year’s at The Orchard Inn New Year’s Eve Gala. A seven-course dinner, starting with hors d’oeuvres and ending with French Champagne as the ball drops at midnight! Reserve your tickets early tickets sell out fast!
Check Out a Live Show for Holidays in Asheville
Check the Flat Rock Playhouse website for their entertaining annual holiday shows. They are a performing art center dedicated to hosting lively productions and educating the youth in theater.
Another place to catch live entertainment is the internationally known Brevard Music Center. During the holiday season, they have concerts playing holiday favorites.
See Gorgeous Holiday Lights and Trees
Christmas Tree Museum
Back in the 70s, some fashionable Christmas trees were made of aluminum. The Transylvania Heritage Museum displays these trees for two months, from November to January, in the Aluminum Christmas Tree and Ornament Museum. See the crazy Christmas tree designs that everyone used to love!
Holiday Shopping
In downtown Asheville, from November to January, the Grove Arcade adds to the festivities with vibrant holiday decorations around the shopping center. Local artisans and retailers offer unique gifts and food and drink specials. Enjoy shopping in the spirit of Christmas in this Winter Wonderland! On New Year’s Eve, you can join them for a themed holiday party to bring in the new year. Check their website for current updates and information on events.
Visit the Gingerbread House Display
Every year, Omni Grove Park Inn puts on a National Gingerbread House Competition where people from around the country compete to win. Enjoy viewing all entries, seeing this year’s winners, and the creative skills of these outstanding artists!
See Holiday Parades
One of the most festive activities for any holiday or event, everyone loves a good parade. Check out the Asheville Holiday Parade to see bands, dancers, cheer squads, and other participants parade through downtown Asheville. Another one you can see is the Tryon Christmas Parade on Trade Street in downtown Tryon.
New Year’s Eve Golden Nugget Drop
In Marion, New Year’s Eve is celebrated with a Gold Nugget Drop and festivities before the countdown. Enjoy a Resolution Run 5k, live DJ music, a scavenger hunt, carriage rides, or tour historical homes on their Urban Hike as some activities you can enjoy. For more information, go to their Facebook page Marion Rotary’s New Year’s Eve Celebration
Twilight in the Treetops Night Climb for Holidays in Asheville
At the Adventure Center of Asheville, join in for a fun evening adventure. Zipline at night with the park lit up with thousands of holiday and laser lights. Enjoy five different night rides to choose from! For more information go to their website and book tickets for an exciting night.
More Holiday Ideas
We have barely scratched the surface of things to do for the holidays in Asheville. Check out more holiday ideas and things to do in our December in Western, NC blog.
Enjoy Holiday Luxury at The Orchard Inn
Gift a holiday getaway with us and have a fantastic time in the winter wonderland in Saluda, NC. When you are done exploring Saluda and the surrounding areas, come back to one of our cottages or bed and breakfast guest rooms.
Enjoy cozy gas fireplaces, luxurious toiletries, linens, and whirlpool tubs. We have gorgeous views of the mountains, complimentary breakfast, and our restaurant, Newman’s. You can get Sunday brunch and dinner. Browse our accommodations and special packages. We can’t wait for you to come to stay with us for the holidays!
During February and March, enjoy our special package to stay three nights and get the fourth night free! Great for special spring romantic occasions!
Photo courtesy of: anoldent
