Asheville, North Carolina, is known for its vibrant culture and natural beauty, but during the holiday season, it transforms into a winter wonderland with decorations that would make even the most festive of grinches smile. Here are five enchanting times to catch the magical atmosphere in Asheville.
1. Early December - The Dickens Christmas Weekend
Asheville turns into a Victorian-era village during the Dickens Christmas Weekend, typically held over the first weekend of December. This event brings the works of Charles Dickens to life with actors dressed in period attire, street performances, carolers, and festive street decor. Here’s what you can expect:
- Strolling Carolers: Hear beautiful renditions of classic Christmas carols.
- Parades and Performances: Street theater showcasing scenes from Dickens’ tales.
- Winter Decor: Garland, wreaths, and Victorian gaslights illuminate Pack Square Park, creating an 18th-century atmosphere.
🧏 Note: Plan your visit for daytime to catch the most activities, but evening strolls will give you a magical Victorian experience.
2. Mid-December - Christmas at Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home, offers an extravaganza of holiday decorations from early November through early January, but mid-December provides the quintessential Christmas spirit:
- House Tours: The estate decked out with 25 decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, and miles of garland.
- Candlelight Christmas Evenings: The estate at night with twinkling lights and a transformed Banquet Hall.
| Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Christmas Trees | Trees in various themes, such as vintage ornaments, traditional red and green, and more. |
| Outdoor Areas | Illuminated gardens, fire pits, and the Conservatory with a towering poinsettia tree. |
🌟 Note: Book tickets in advance as this time of the year gets very crowded.
3. Late December - National Gingerbread House Competition
The Omni Grove Park Inn hosts the National Gingerbread House Competition, where some of the most stunning gingerbread displays are showcased. Late December is the perfect time to see the winners:
- Gingerbread Display: Over 200 gingerbread houses, ranging from small to large.
- Decorating: The Inn is beautifully adorned with Christmas decorations, complementing the gingerbread spectacle.
4. New Year’s Eve - Downtown Asheville
Asheville turns into a festive party for New Year’s Eve:
- Fireworks: Sky lighting up with vibrant colors as the new year begins.
- Ball Drops: A tradition across various locations with the main event in Pack Square Park.
- Dinner Parties: Restaurants often have special menus and decorations for the occasion.
5. Winter Solstice - Luminaries and Bonfires
The winter solstice is celebrated with luminaries lining the streets and bonfires in local parks:
- Luminaries: Bags with candles creating pathways and bringing warmth and light.
- Bonfires: Gatherings around bonfires for community celebrations.
Visiting Asheville during any of these times will provide you with a unique Christmas experience, capturing the city’s holiday spirit through unique events, decorations, and traditions. Whether you're soaking up the Victorian atmosphere at Dickens Weekend, marveling at the opulence of Biltmore's Christmas, or savoring local community bonfires, Asheville has something for everyone looking for a festive holiday experience.
What is the best time to visit Asheville for Christmas decorations?
+
The best times are early to mid-December for the Dickens Christmas Weekend and the Biltmore Christmas celebration, but the entire month offers its charm with ongoing decorations and events.
Do I need to book accommodations and tickets in advance?
+
Yes, especially for Biltmore Estate during the holidays, it’s advisable to book accommodations and tickets in advance as it can get quite crowded.
Are there other Christmas events in Asheville?
+
Yes, besides the highlighted events, there are local Christmas markets, holiday concerts, and church services that add to the festive atmosphere throughout the month.
