Winter is a magical time in the Western North Carolina Smoky Mountains. There’s a glittering display of celebration and festive fun for the holiday season that lasts from November all the way through February. Then after Christmas is over, you can keep the post-holiday blues away with fun winter activities like arts & crafts festivals, skiing, snowboarding, tubing and so much more!
There are so many magical events throughout the 2023 winter season, that it’s tough to keep track of them all. Keep reading for a list of some of the most popular events that both locals and travelers look forward to every year.
Disclaimer: Please check with each venue before visiting to find out the latest details on safety precautions, times, or closures.
The Polar Express (Bryson City, NC)
November 12 to December 31, 2021
Take a memorable Christmas journey when you board the Polar Express at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot in Bryson City. A favorite holiday tradition for kids of all ages, this exciting train ride will have you believing in magic all over again. Hop on board for a 1¼-hour round-trip ride over the river and through the woods to the North Pole. Set to the delightful sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, riders will stay warm with hot cocoa and cookies while reading along with the story.
And when the train pulls into the North Pole, kids’ faces will light up with joy when they’re greeted by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Each child will receive a special gift – their very own silver sleigh bell just like in the story. On the return journey, riders will sing Christmas carols to round out the trip.
Christmas at The Biltmore House (Asheville, NC)
November 3, 2023 to January 7, 2024
The Biltmore House takes on even more magic when its halls are decked for the holidays. This majestic fairy tale castle in the mountains is adorned with a plethora of ornate hand-decorated trees, including the favorite 35-ft. live Fraser fir in the Banquet Hall. You’ll see a thousand poinsettias, miles, and miles of festive garland, and enjoy live music during your tour!
Winter Wonderland in Franklin, NC
November 25 to December 2, 2023
Just down the road from the Meadowlark Motel, the charming town of Franklin, NC presents its annual Winter Wonderland from 5:00pm to 8:00pm each evening. Its historic downtown area is transformed into a magical Christmas adventure with everything from living window displays of Christmas, live holiday music at the downtown gazebo and inside stores, FREE holiday attractions, refreshments, hot cider, great sales from local small businesses, and so much more!
Tinsel Trail & Appalachian Christmas at Shelton House (Waynesville, NC)
December 3, 2023
The historic Shelton House in Waynesville is hosting its Appalachian Christmas Event on December 3 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Enjoy a visit from Santa Claus himself as you and your family marvel at the hundreds of twinkling lights that adorn the property. The Tinsel Trail kicks off on the evening of 12/4 but will stay lit every evening from dusk till dawn through January 1, 2024, so you can enjoy it throughout the entire holiday season.
Santa on the Chimney (Chimney Rock, NC)
December 2 & December 9, 2023
Everyone knows that Santa enters houses through the chimney, but where do you think he goes to keep his climbing skills sharp? Chimney Rock State Park is his favorite place to train for his Christmas deliveries. Kids of every age love to come by and watch Santa practice as he repels down one of the largest chimneys ever. Write out your Christmas wish list and bring it to Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy festive live music, hot chocolate, cookies, special kids activities, and even meet live Park animal ambassadors!
Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries (Dillsboro, NC)
December 1-2 and 8-9, 2023
The first two weekends of December – from 5:00pm to 9:00pm each Friday and Saturday – you and your family can journey back to ‘ye days of old’ and experience the magic of the holidays. The entire town of Dillsboro is completely transformed into a wonderland of winter delights. Enjoy live holiday music and marvel at 2500 luminaries that will light your way along charming shops, artists’ studios, and restaurants. Wave to Santa and Mrs. Claus as they ride through town in their pickup truck. You can even write a letter to Santa and drop it off at his special mailbox!
Burn’s Night (Maggie Valley, NC)
January 25, 2024
Robert Burns is the national poet of Scotland and is one of the most widely read Scottish poets both in Scotland and around the world. His works represent the rich local Scottish heritage in the western North Carolina Smoky Mountains, and you’ll find people honoring his birthday all across the area. Join us right here at the Meadowlark Motel when we host our annual event that includes traditional Scottish food, bagpipe players, and storytellers reading Burn’s iconic works.
NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend (Haywood County)
January 26-28, 2024
Get ready to chill out at the NC Smokies Ice Festival! January 26, 27 & 28, 2024, Haywood County will be transformed into a winter wanderland as the festival goes county-wide. Brace yourself for jaw-dropping ice sculptures, thrilling interactive ice games, and the chance to peruse local artisans’ masterpieces. But that’s not all – you can lace up your skates and glide across an ice skating rink, indulge in delicious dining specials, and snag some incredible deals while you shop. This weekend-long event is guaranteed to make your heart melt – in the best way possible!
Maggie Valley Ice Festival
January 27, 2024
Prepare for a wondrous journey at the Maggie Valley Ice Festival, a key event of the NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend taking place on January 27, 2024, from 4 to 9 PM at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. Be captivated by the live ice carving demonstrations where skilled artists magically transform solid ice blocks into awe-inspiring masterpieces. Feel the exhilaration as you glide down the ice slide and showcase your prowess in ice games such as cornhole and ice hockey. Peruse through local vendor tents to find the perfect souvenir while treating your taste buds to delectable bites from food trucks. Take a breather in the warming tent or cozy up by the fire while savoring some delicious s’mores. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable winter celebration!
Canton’s Ice Rink
January 26-28, 2024
Get ready to hit the ice at Sorrell’s Street Park in Canton! Strap on your skates and experience the joy of gliding across a shimmering ice surface. Feel the brisk air gently caressing your cheeks as the echoes of laughter surround you. This rink serves as the ideal setting to release your inner ice dancer and flaunt your impressive spins. Whether you’re a skilled pro or a tentative beginner, the Canton ice skating rink offers an icy playground suitable for all ages. Gather your friends, dive into the chilly adventure, and let the delightful times on the ice begin!
Downtown Waynesville’s Ice Stroll
January 26, 2024
Embrace the winter magic as you leisurely wander through a frosty wonderland at Downtown Waynesville’s Ice Stroll! On the Friday night of the NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend, Waynesville will be transformed into a captivating scene with mesmerizing ice sculptures adorning the streets. Explore at your own pace, and discover local businesses extending their hours, providing warm and comforting treats to keep you energized as you marvel at the beautifully frozen masterpieces.
Winter Arts Show Festival (Asheville, NC)
January 26-28, 2024
Discover the magic of winter at Metzger’s Burl Wood Gallery during our Winter Arts Show Festival, where Scandinavian delights take center stage! Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Nordic cookies, savor traditional dishes like lefse and lutefisk, and warm up with a cup of glogg while soaking in the festive atmosphere. Experience the joy of live music in the cozy afternoons, adding an extra layer of enchantment to this celebration of art and culture. Don’t miss out on the winter wonderland at our gallery, open from 10 AM to 5 PM on Friday and Saturday, and from 12 PM to 4 PM on Sunday. Live music will fill the air from 1 PM to 4 PM during the afternoons.
Penguins on the Pigeon
January 27, 2024
Dive into the excitement of Penguins on the Pigeon at Canton Recreation Park, a highlight of the NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend! Join us on Saturday from 1 to 3 PM for the thrilling release of charming rubber penguins into the river, gracefully floating down to the Pigeon St. bridge at precisely 1:30 PM. Don’t miss the chance to take home your very own penguin – available for purchase from 12 PM to 1 PM on the day of the event, each adorable companion priced at just $5 or grab five for an unbeatable deal at $20.
Cataloochee Ski’s Torch Run
January 27, 2024
Embrace the enchantment of winter at Cataloochee Ski Area on Saturday, January 27th, at 10:30 pm for a mesmerizing torch run extravaganza! While our dedicated staff takes part in the lighted run/walk/parade, you’re invited to cozy up on the lodge deck or gather at the bottom of the slopes to witness this stunning spectacle and immerse yourself in the magic of winter. Don’t miss out on this captivating viewing experience – join us for a night filled with warmth, lights, and the beauty of the snowy slopes!
Ice Fest Weekend 5K at HCC
January 28, 2024
Participate in a free, family-friendly 5K walk or run on the Dahlia Ridge Trail on the campus of HCC. Start your 5K at any time between 10AM – Noon on Sunday, January 28th. There will be a surprise at every kilometer. This untimed event is a great way to exercise during the winter and keep Ice Fest alive all weekend!
