Googling Christmas towns near me?
When it comes to experiencing the magic of Christmas, Carolina offers some enchanting towns that transform into illuminated winter wonderlands during the holiday season. From dazzling light displays to festive parades and charming festivities, these towns create a magical atmosphere that captures the season’s true spirit. Today, we will explore some of the best Christmas towns in Carolina, each offering a unique and delightful holiday experience.
So, are you ready for Christmas in Carolina?
McAdenville
Located in Gaston County, McAdenville, also known as Christmas Town USA, is a small town with around 1000 residents. During the holiday season, this Christmas town in North Carolina transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle of lights, drawing in hundreds of thousands of visitors.
From 5:30 to 10:00 PM every night (Dec 1-26), the downtown area will be illuminated with Christmas lights, turning the town into a picturesque winter wonderland this year. The highlight is the annual parade on Main Street, featuring a high school marching band, carolers and the ceremonial lighting of the Memorial Yule Log Fireplace at Legacy Park. McAdenville NC is a must-visit if you are a fan of small town Christmas.
Blowing Rock
Head to Blowing Rock for a two-day holiday extravaganza on November 24 and 25 for The Christmas Festival at Memorial Park and Lighting of the Town to kick off the festivities in Rockwellian town. You can enjoy games, crafts, hayrides and live music.
You can also witness the town tree and park illuminated at 5:45 PM on Friday, accompanied by a Christmas Parade on Main Street the following day on Saturday, November 25, 2023. Visitors can enjoy the dazzling holiday lights in the park every Friday and Saturday night between Thanksgiving and Christmas, complete with a nighttime train ride, Christmas show, caroling and even a visit from Santa. It is one of the top Christmas towns in North Carolina.
Boone
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone NC at Christmas offers a charming experience with various activities. The annual Christmas Parade winds through Downtown Boone, featuring floats, costumes, performances, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. You can join the event on December 9, 2023, at 2 PM and explore the open shops and restaurants along King Street, adding to the festive atmosphere.
If you are lucky, you might even experience a dusting of snow, enhancing the holiday magic in this picturesque North Carolina Christmas town.
Highlands
Highlands, NC hosts a series of festive events throughout the holiday season every year. The “Light Up the Park” event on November 25 this year is all about bringing the community together for live music, carols and the lighting of Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. You can also catch Santa making regular appearances in the park throughout December, listening to children’s wishes and collecting letters placed in a designated mailbox. Don’t miss the Highlands Christmas Parade on December 2nd, featuring marching bands, imaginative floats, and, of course, the star of the show, Santa Claus.
Asheville
For a festive day trip, consider Christmas in Asheville, situated at the confluence of the French Broad and Swannanoa rivers. This Christmas city offers a diverse range of holiday activities, including the Asheville Holiday Parade on November 18, 2023.
One of the city’s favorite traditions is the annual National Gingerbread House Competition at the Omni Resorts Grove Park Inn, a delightful showcase of edible artistry. You simply shouldn’t miss this one. Plus there’s also the Biltmore and their world renowned celebration! Asheville is simply one of the best Christmas towns in North Carolina.
Bryson City
In the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The downtown square is adorned with a grand Christmas tree, twinkling lights and festive decorations, providing ample opportunities for family photos on nearly every corner. Whether you seek a family-friendly adventure aboard the enchanting Polar Express™ Train, a cozy holiday hayride on an authentic farm, or festive shopping from local artisans, Bryson City has it all. It is an un-missable Christmas town in NC.
The town offers more than just visual delights; it invites you to partake in spirited community events and enjoy the warmth of nearby cafes. If you are up for some winter fun, an outdoor ice skating rink awaits you. Your time in Bryson City promises to be infused with magic, making it an ideal destination for creating cherished holiday memories. So, are you ready for the Bryson City Christmas?
Beech Mountain
We cannot talk about Christmas in Carolina without talking about Beech. Beech Mountain in the Blue Ridge Mountains is the perfect destination for those dreaming of a white Christmas in North Carolina. As the snowiest town in the state, Beech Mountain’s elevation contributes to its winter wonderland charm. The town is also renowned for its ski resort, offering a range of winter activities such as skiing, snow tubing, ice skating, sledding and snowshoeing.
For a truly magical experience, embark on a hike to Buckeye Creek Falls and immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit surrounded by nature’s beauty. Beech Mountain hosts various festive events leading up to the big day, including the Beech Mountain Holiday Market, Christmas Parade & Festival and the much-anticipated arrival of Santa.
After reveling in holiday cheer, a visit to Beech Mountain Brewery, one of the best breweries in North Carolina, is a must.
Hendersonville
Just south of Asheville, Hendersonville offers a Southern Christmas extravaganza that captures the essence of the holiday season. Every holiday season, the town comes alive with carriage rides, visits with Santa, greenery markets, a Christmas parade and holiday-themed performances at the Flat Rock Playhouse.
One of the most significant events this season is the downtown tree lighting on the historic courthouse plaza, occurring the day after Thanksgiving (November 24, 2023). Santa himself graces the festivities, illuminating a towering 30-foot tree amid live music and enchanting horse-drawn carriage rides.
Sylva
Sylva, nestled in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina in Jackson County, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The charming downtown area comes alive with festive decorations, as the streets are adorned with twinkling lights and seasonal ornaments, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates residents and visitors alike. The town’s location in the mountains enhances the holiday spirit, with a good chance of snow adding an extra layer of enchantment to the scene. The iconic courthouse overlooking the city becomes a beacon of holiday cheer, as it is illuminated with a dazzling array of lights that sparkle against the wintry backdrop. Sylva’s commitment to spreading holiday joy is evident in the numerous Christmas trees that dot the landscape, creating cozy corners of warmth and festivity throughout the town. The combination of the mountain setting, the festive decorations, and the community spirit make Sylva a delightful destination for celebrating the holidays.
Charleston
Charleston, named one of the best places to visit during the holiday season by Travel + Leisure Magazine, boasts winter festivals, holiday walking tours, parades, plays, concerts, Sleigh rides and dazzling light displays. In short, it is one of the best Christmas towns in the South.
Besides the festivities, holiday shopping becomes an experience in itself. You can explore the iconic King Street shopping district, the Historic City Market, the Holiday Market in Marion Square and various outlet and open-air malls in the area. Charleston’s charm, combined with its festive atmosphere, makes it a top destination for holiday celebrations.
Greenville
In Greenville, the first Friday evening of December marks the official start of the Christmas season with the annual Greenville Christmas Parade of Lights. This nighttime spectacle features marching bands, antique cars, floats, horses and more, winding through Downtown on Lee and Washington Streets. Moreover, the department Parks and Recreation is setting up a massive family fun zone next to the GMA, providing excellent parade viewing and a plethora of family activities.
In short, Greenville sparkles with lights and festive delights, offering a warm and welcoming start to the holiday season for locals and visitors alike. It is a must-visit for a lovely Christmas in the south.
Wrap Up
Carolina has a plethora of lovely villages that truly celebrate the Christmas season. Whether wandering through McAdenville’s brilliant lights, enjoying the festive mood in Boone, or witnessing the mountain charm in the Highlands, these communities provide a magical holiday experience for locals and visitors alike. So, plan a vacation to one or more of these Christmas towns and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones this holiday season.
