Making lasting memories, bundling up in the cold, and spending time with family are all parts of what make this time of year so special. Western North Carolina is the perfect place to really enjoy the holidays with an extensive list of attractions, shopping, and eateries to keep the celebrations going. Plus, the outstanding landscape makes for a perfect winter wonderland! Whether you are a local looking for new ways to celebrate or a visitor wanting the best ideas for your trip to Asheville or Western NC, read on and find exciting experiences, shopping opportunities, and dining options that will fill your heart with holiday spirit.
Experiences
What are the holidays without lights and music? No matter what part of WNC you are in, there is no shortage of activities and experiences to get you in the holiday spirit. From gingerbread houses to walk-through lights, make a day out of it and take the family to see some of WNC’s best holiday attractions.
- Biltmore House
Biltmore Estate and Biltmore Village are some of the most iconic ways to enjoy the holiday season in Asheville. If you are looking for festive Christmas activities and events in the area, these are a don’t miss. Learn all about the holidays and Christmas at Biltmore. - National Gingerbread House Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn
‘Tis the Season for lights and fun! Asheville and the surrounding cities each have their own unique take on the celebrations of the season – keeping the fun going and going. One of the most famous seasonal attractions is the National Gingerbread House Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Located in the Northern part of Asheville, the Omni Grove Park Inn hosts their annual Gingerbread House competition that brings visitors from all over. Guests can view the houses beginning in late November through the beginning of January (see site for exact dates.) Parking is paid for both day visitors as well as overnight guests.
- Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum
If you are looking for the traditional Christmas light experience, there are several locations hosting walk-through light attractions. At the top of the list is the North Carolina Arboretum’s Winter Lights. This walk-through lights show will be available to visit from November 15th – January 4th, 2026. Some fan favorite features include their 50-foot lighted tree and Quilt Garden. Tickets are currently open for purchase for this fantastic family outing and seasonal delight. A special addition this year includes guest appearances from a handful of Thomas Dambo’s Trolls!
- Weaverville’s Candlelight Stroll
Just a short drive outside the Asheville city limits, Weaverville hosts an annual Candlelight Stroll. This year’s event will be held on December 12th at 6 pm and will feature live music, lights, food vendors, and horse drawn carriage rides. You might even be able to catch a glimpse of Santa! If you are looking for an all-around holiday experience, this one is a winner.
- Lake Julian’s Festival of Lights
Running through December 23rd, this light festival is definitely a popular one! Tickets often sell out, so be sure to prepare if you are hoping to participate. Lake Julian’s Festival of Lights opens with a walk-through night on November 30th and switches to a drive-thru experience for the remainder of the season. You can also truly embody the reason for the season with 20% of the ticket proceeds going towards the Buncombe County Special Olympics.
- Asheville Plays! Winter Wonder Walk at the Adventure Center
The Winter Wonder Walk, presented by Asheville Plays!, brings the season to life at the Adventure Center of Asheville for the three weekends following Thanksgiving. Step inside a storybook and wander an outdoor immersive trail filled with live characters, twinkling lights, playful Snow Sprites. Warm up under the heated tent with elf games, crafts, hot cocoa, local makers, tasty treats, adult beverages, and cozy bonfires for s’mores. Feeling adventurous? Don’t miss the Treetops Adventure Park Glow Trail, where kids (4+) and adults can climb aerial courses lit with thousands of colorful light. And with the S’Mitten with Books program, children 10 and under who read 10 books (and fill out the form) will receive free admission to the walk!
- Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour
Last stop on this list of attractions is the Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour hosted by Gray Line Asheville. This tour is a great way to get off your feet and relax as the guide takes you all throughout Downtown Asheville and the surrounding neighborhoods. Charismatic patrons can even sing along with the onboard musician singing classic Christmas carols all along the way. Tickets are currently available for the 75-minute ride.
Shopping
What’s more fun than buying all of your friends and family gifts they will love to celebrate the season? Western North Carolina is such a wonderful place to find unique gifts made with lots of heart. Known for its makers and artists, Asheville is a great atmosphere to get your shop on.
- Biltmore Village
If you are interested in a more traditional Holiday shopping experience, you may opt for some time in the Biltmore Village. This quaint shopping district used to be home to the employees of the Biltmore estate, but now houses a mix of boutique stores as well as name brand stores. Upon visiting you’ll find fine art, clothing, jewelry and more. And if Christmas-themed decor and items are what you seek, don’t miss Olde World Christmas Shoppe.
- Uncommon Holiday Market
If you lean more toward the unique Asheville shopping experience, you’ll have to be sure and visit local holiday markets and shops for gifts and goodies you won’t find anywhere else. The Uncommon Holiday Market is a local favorite for artisans, and has been very popular in previous years. Shoppers love the variety of vendors and the ability to tap into their community.
- Show and Tell Pop Up Holiday Market
The Show and Tell Pop Up Holiday Market is a month-long shop set up just for the seasonal shoppers! Buying small and local is an aspect of the Asheville culture that is celebrated and encouraged year-round. Here you will find over 100 vendors’ indie, craft, and vintage products. Make sure to stop in between November 28th and December 24th for the perfect giftable items.
- Grove Arcade
The Grove Arcade is a local favorite and holiday season classic for shopping, dining, and special activities. This year’s Winter Wonderland at the Grove Arcade will feature a tree lighting ceremony, glass blowing, and music performance among the many shops decked out for the season. You are sure to find gifts for loved ones and have a grand time shopping and walking about the arcade during the holiday season. A list of their shops, restaurants, and events can be found on their website.
- Local Gift Shops
Down almost every street and around every corner in the Asheville downtown area, you’ll find a quaint little gift shop brimming with carefully-procured items and goodies. Whether it’s local artists, specialty goods, or small boutiques, there is a little something for everyone in Asheville. This holiday season is the perfect time to check out stores you might normally pass up or support a small business that you already love.
Dining
We all know food brings us together, and what better time to come together than the holiday season? Asheville and the surrounding areas are extremely lucky to be home to so many award-winning, delicious, and diverse restaurants. From festive menus to seasonal treats, these local spots are creating holiday experiences worth savoring.
- 67 Biltmore Downtown Eatery + Catering
The crew at 67 Biltmore always delivers when it comes to making your holiday celebrations simpler and tastier. Whether you’re planning easy, delicious additions to your holiday table or want seasonal favorites to enjoy at home, their Holiday Week Specials items are available daily from December 15-24. With gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and vegetarian options, they have you covered from a quiet evening for 2 to entertaining extended family.
- Blue Ridge at The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
For a truly classic holiday dining experience, Blue Ridge offers an elegant Christmas Day buffet set against sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for its farm-to-table approach, this artisanal buffet showcases thoughtfully prepared seasonal dishes, regional ingredients, and elevated comfort favorites—perfect for a festive celebration without the stress of cooking. Floor-to-ceiling windows, warm holiday décor, and the Inn’s iconic atmosphere make it a memorable way to spend Christmas in Asheville. Reservations are highly recommended for this beloved holiday tradition.
- Bargello
Celebrate Christmas Day in the heart of downtown Asheville at Bargello, where the holidays are served with a Mediterranean twist. Their four-course, family-style prix-fixe meal features elevated takes on holiday classics, all crafted with Asheville’s freshest local ingredients. Warm, inviting, and perfect for sharing, this festive dining experience blends tradition with bold flavors for a memorable holiday gathering.
- OWL Bakery
For a thoughtful addition to your holiday table, OWL Bakery offers naturally leavened breads and European-inspired pastries made with intention and care. With locations in West and North Asheville, they use high-quality, whole ingredients sourced as locally as possible. Their holiday store (North Asheville pickup) features seasonal favorites like sweet potato rosemary rolls, chocolate cherry loaf, and sourdough stollen—perfect for slow, meaningful holiday moments.
At Altamont Property Group, we are experts in land, homes, investment, and commercial properties in Western North Carolina. We also enjoy sharing our love and expertise of the area with those looking for property in and around Asheville, NC. Whether you are here for a visit or are a resident, we are happy to support your unique needs when it comes to real estate. Contact us at 828-782-5582 or altamontpropertygroup@gmail.com to learn more about how we can help you find property in the area to make the holiday season last all year long.
