New Year's Eve Mountain Celebrations

December 31, 2012:

Get links for these and other mountain events on the NC Events Calendar.


NC City:  BRASSTOWN
Event:    18th Annual New Year's Eve Possum Drop   Ring in the New Year with a Miss Possum contest, live bluegrass music, the Little Brasstown Church Choir, the Blessings, homemade cider and lots of good clean fun.

NC City:  BEECH MOUNTAIN
Event:    New Year's Eve Party at Beech Mountain Resort   Live music, drink specials, and even midnight ice skating. The party is held In the Beech Tree Bar & Grill, which is open until 1:30 AM for the event. Enjoy live entertainment  from The Jonathan Birchfield  Band, providing a unique mix of country and rock tunes.  Tickets are $10 per person.  Beech Mountain Resort will extend Ice Skating hours until 11 PM with Munchies, located adjacent to the ice rink,  providing games and activities for families.

NC City:  BEECH MOUNTAIN
Event:     Rockin' New Year's Eve Party  at the Buckeye Recreation Center.  Food, family-friendly games, jamming music, a bounce house, a kid-friendly New Years Eve count down and much more. So bring the family to celebrate the New Years and still make it out to see the ball drop at your New Year’s Eve Party.   Activities will run from 5pm-8pm, and are free!


NC City:  BLOWING ROCK
Event:    New Year's Eve Extravaganza   Appalachian Ski Mountain offers torchlight skiing, firework and more. Moonlight ice skating from 10 PM to midnight. Restaurant Specials also available from 9 PM to midnight.

NC City:  BLOWING ROCK
Event:     2nd Annual Black & White Ball at Green Park Inn. Dinner & Dancing at the historic Inn. More details by calling 828-414-9230

NC City:  BLOWING ROCK
Event:     New Year's Eve Party featuring Soul Watt at Canyons Restaurant. $10 cover includes midnight champagne toast. 10pm. 828-295-7661


NC City:  BLOWING ROCK
Event:     New Year's Dinner & Party at Crestwood. Starting at 7pm, five course dinner, DJ, then a midnight champagne toast. 828-963-6646

NC City:  BLOWING ROCK
Event:     New Year's Eve Dinner at Crippen's. Party favors, midnight toast. 828-295-3487

NC City:  MAGGIE VALLEY
Event:     New Year's Eve Party  at The Maggie Valley Country Club   $25.00 per person includes complimentary favors, champagne toast, live ball drop and music by local favorites 45 Cherry. A breakfast will follow the midnight hour and is included in the ticket price. Limited space - RSVP.

NC City:  MARION
Event:     New Year's Eve Celebration   Come out to historic downtown Marion between 9:00 PM and midnight to ring in the New year with music, food, carriage rides and more. Downtown businesses will be open with their own form of entertainment including the McDowell Arts Council at 50 S. Main Street where you can enjoy "the oldies" and a dance floor for a little toe tapping! This is a free event on Main Street with street vendors and musicians providing entertainment for all ages.

NC City:  HENDERSONVILLE
Event:     New Year's Eve Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre  at The Inn on Church Street   The event includes dinner, dancing & murder in the speakeasy. 

NC City:  FLAT ROCK
Event:    New Year's Eve Celebration at the Season's Restaurant at Highland Lake Inn/  Enjoy a 3 course dinner, champagne toast and midnight celebration.  Live music with The Bruce Lang Trio from 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM. $70.00 per person. 828-696-9094

NC City:  MARSHALL
Event:     New Year's Eve Party at the Art Center  Sons of Ralph perform - 9 PM show. Champagne toast at Midnight. Ring in the new year for just $15 for tickets

NC City:  PILOT MOUNTAIN
Event:    1st Annual New Year’s Gala-Pilot Mountain Ballroom   Held at the Armfield Civic Center. 7:30 PM – Social Hour 8:00 PM – Dinner 9:00 PM, Buffet Dinner Serving: Prime Rib ~ Parmesan Encrusted Chicken Breast ~ Twice Baked Potatoes ~ Baby Carrots ~ Winter Salad ~ Dessert.  12:00 midnight – Dancing Dress: Formal Attire (Preferred) or Semi-Formal.  Cost: $30/person (Pre-paid reservation) Note: Both Singles and Couples are invited to Atten.

NC City:  MOUNT AIRY
Event:     New Years Eve Party at Old North State Winery  Ring in the New Year at Old North State Winery  from 9 PM - 12:30 AM. Music throughout the evening with Mediocre Bad Guys Live on the 1st Floor and a DJ by Sugarbear Productions on the 2nd Floor with a Champagne Toast at Midnight. That's two parties for one price. Tickets are available at the Museum (336-786-4478) or at the Winery (336-789-9463) $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Get your tickets early as space is limited. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Museum. 

NC City:  ASHEVILLE
Event:     New Year's Celebration at The Fun Depot   Celebrate the end of 2012 and the beginning of 2013 with lots of FUN at Fun Depot. You will be able to enjoy 3 hours of unlimited FUN for $15 per person. Both groups and individuals are welcome. The Depot Diner will be open and there will even be a live band and party favors.

New Year's Eve Events: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad New Year's Eve Celebration

December 31 - Celebrate New Year's Eve on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.  Arrive early for a special reception beginning at 7:45 PM in the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum located steps away from the depot.  Start the night with an exclusive selection of beer, wine and mixed drinks, and Feast on array of hors d' oeuvres: Tiger Shrimp with Cocktail sauce,  Button Mushrooms stuffed with, Shrimp/Crab and Parmesan, Fruit covered in rich chocolate.

New Year's Eve on the railway includes dinner and dancing with a champagne toast at midnight.  Do something different this year and forgoe the old traditional party and hop on board for the send off of the New Year.  The train departs Monday December 31 from the historic Bryson City, NC depot at 9 PM and returns after the midnight toast.  

Enjoy a Feast fit for First Class,  beginning with a salad made of fresh baby greens in a raspberry vinaigrette dressing and warm yeast rolls.  Choose from a selection of delicious entrees: Spinach stuffed chicken with a creamy parmesan sauce, Seasoned pork loin served with a tart raspberry glaze, Portobello mushroom tower stuffed with smoked peppers, spinach and parmesan cheese.  Finish off your meal with a tasty rich white chocolate cheesecake covered with fresh berries. Dinner is served buffet style and guests can mingle, relax, indulge on delicious food while greeting the New Year in Style.

Musical entertainment is provided by Alias Smith & Jones, a popular Atlanta-based acoustic guitar/vocal duo whose vast repertoire ranges from the must-have classics to the totally unexpected.  Two experienced guitarists combine their voices with harmonica, flute, mandolin, percussion, and a few surprises to deliver a unique musical experience.
Book now! Tickets are going fast.   $135/per adult (plus tax and gratuity)  1-800-872-4681

New Year's Celebration at the Grove Park Inn and Spa

December 28 - January 2   New Year's Eve Celebration at the Grove Park Inn -  New Year's Eve packages include accommodations, dinner in the award-winning restaurant of your choice including one of two amazing parties. The “Toast to 100" Package features Big Band melodies from the Doug Burns Band and a large dance floor to waltz and foxtrot the night away. If a blowout event is more your style, the “Centennial Blast Off" Package includes a night of party music from Big Blast and the Party Masters to bring in 2013 with a bang.

The Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa is an historic Asheville mountain inn with renowned spa services. Additional facilities include the scenic golf course and a sports complex with swimming pool, tennis courts,  racquetball and training equipment. The Resort offers onsite restaurants, lounge and bars. A large variety of accommodations include rooms and suites in varying stages of updates and ages with some original Inn antiques. Check Inn rates and dates


 
The Grove Park hosts a variety of winter events and weekend packages from  New Year's Eve Celebrations to Big Band Dance Weekend to the All That Jazz Festival. Get a link for details on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

New Year's Eve Celebration in Marion NC

 December 31   New Year's Eve Celebration   Come out to historic downtown Marion between 9:00 PM and midnight to ring in the New year with music, food, carriage rides and more. Downtown businesses will be open with their own form of entertainment including the McDowell Arts Council at 50 South Main Street where you can enjoy "the oldies" and a dance floor for a little toe tapping! This is a free event on Main Street with street vendors and musicians providing entertainment for all ages...

Learn more about Marion events, attractions and lodging on the Marion NC Visitor Guide.

Boone NC Inns offer New Year's Eve Special

New Year's Eve Special -  Get $25 off online reservations for Boone NC Inns.

Choose from Mountain Inns or bed and breakfasts with mountain view, spa services and more in or near Boone NC. Enjoy old world charm or modern conveniences, peaceful settings, gourmet breakfasts, hot tubs and other amenities. Rates before discount begin as low as $95 per night.

See the complete list of participating Boone NC area Inns and Bed and Breakfasts, photos and online reservations

NC Ski Resorts Open for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Celebrate Christmas with family and friends at your favorite NC Ski Resort. Operating hours for Christmas eve and Christmas Day will vary so be sure to check with the individual resort before making plans. 
Get a link for all NC Ski Resorts and areas as well as daily slope updates on the NC Ski Resort Guide 

 
December 24 - Cataloochee Ski Area will be skiing on 10 out of 16 slopes, from the top of the quad down, including the Lower Snowbird Trail and Alley Cat with 3 aerial lifts and 2 conveyor lifts operating, on a base of 14-40 inches and a machine worked surface from 8:30 AM-4:30 PM.
Cataloochee will be open Christmas Day from 1 PM until 10 PM and Santa will make a special appearance.


December 24 - Beech Mountain Ski Resort holds a Christmas Eve Service at 4:30 at the ice rink. Participants can enjoy a free hot chocolate to celebrate the holiday.

Beech Mountain Resort will close at 430 PM on December 24 and re-open at 12:30 PM on December 25.


December 24 - Appalachian Ski Mountain will be open for skiing and snowboarding and Santa will stop by to join in the fun from 1 PM - 4 PM. 6 slopes and 3 lifts are open on a base of 24-40 inches.

ASM is closed for the Night Session on Christmas Eve, and is closed for both Day and Night skiing on Christmas Day. The Appalachian Ice Arena is open for afternoon sessions only.


December 24 - Sugar Mountain Ski Resort will be open  for skiing and boarding from 9 AM until 4:30 PM and Ice skating and tubing will be open from 10 AM until 2 PM. Sugar will open Christmas Day at noon.

Community Bonfire on Beech Mountain

December 23   Community Bonfire on Beech Mountain At 8 PM the Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria hosts another community bonfire. Come cozy up around the fire as you roast s’mores, drink cider and cocoa, and enjoy a sing-along. Free food, beverages, and music.

Learn more about Beech Mountain NC HERE.

Maggie Valley NC New Year's Getaway

Maggie Valley Golf Club Condo - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 6. Fireplace, balcony, Internet access. Discover the beauty the NC mountain golf courses plus swimming pool, hot tub, tennis courts and fitness facility are available.  Winter skiing at Cataloochee Ski Area.  $115 - $165 night, $724 - $815 week.  See condo photos, details and availability calendar

Learn more about Maggie Valley and Cataloochee Ski Area on the Maggie Valley NC Visitor Guide.
 

Last minute Christmas and New Year's Cabin Special in Lake Toxaway

Last minute Christmas and New Year's Special - 20% off the nightly rate for a 3 or more night stay, through Jan 2.

Cabin rentals in beautiful Lake Toxaway - Choose from several available cabins set in a private 7 acre setting with nature trails, waterfall pond, creek and more. 1-2 bedrooms, fireplaces, hot tub, grills, PET FRIENDLY.   See cabins photos and details

Last Minute New Year's Cabin Rental in Nantahala

Nantahala cabin on 40 acres bordered by a trout stream - 2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 6. Stone gas log fireplace, outdoor grill, large porch with rockers, central H&A, locally crafted furnishings, full kitchen, W&D, flat screen sat. TV+DVD.   $125 night,  $750 week.  

See cabin photos and availability details

Dillsboro NC Mural Needs Your Support on Kickstarter NOW

A mural project called "On Hallowed Ground" by NC Artist Doreyl Ammons Cain is proposed for the town of Dillsboro NC. The project is now on Kickstarter and needs your support to continue. CLICK HERE to get details and make a contribution beginning at $10.

"On Hallowed Ground" will show the interaction of Scotch Irish settlers, the Cherokee Native Americans and the founding of the small town, Dillsboro, NC, in the 1880’s. There are tales of feuds, hardships and Love. All these stories will be painted into the mural within the backdrop of the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
The town of Dillsboro will benefit from this project as it is intended to be a re-awakening of the heart of the town, a journey to being an art destination and a thriving town again. 

It will take 9 months to paint the mural,  planed for completion by October 1, 2013. It will be shear coated with a protectant that will keep the sun’s rays out and retain the color for decades outside. The mural will be placed in Dillsboro and unveiled on October 5th at 10:00 AM to begin the annual ColorFest, Art & Taste of Appalachia festival.

Be a part of this exciting project by pledging your support to make this mural a reality! The money you pledge will be used to buy museum quality mural paint, brushes, preserved mural board and will pay for time doing research, creating a large comprehensive drawing and painting the mural for 9 months.
There will be a 1st edition fine art, museum quality art print made of "On Hallowed Ground" and you will receive one of these 150 limited edition prints with your pledge of $25 or more. If you pledge now you can be assured of a 1st edition art print. For those who pledge after the first 15 days, you will receive a 2nd edition hand signed and numbered fine art print and your name will be on a plaque attached to the mural.
Kickstarter is an 'all or nothing'  online funding resource.  If  the goal of $8000  is not reached between December 4th and January 4, the town will receive none of the pledges and no one will benefit. So pass this Kickstarter site on to your friends and give your support today!

NC Christmas Event:

December 21-22   Re-discovering Christmas   at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts. This is a fun evening of professional theatre and down home Christmas music in an intimate theatre setting in downtown Black Mountain.

Jim and Carol Shores of Acts of Renewal Theatre Co. bring a series of vignettes that welcome young and old to rediscover the hilarity, the mystery, the wonder of Christmas. The evening concludes with a finale about an irrepressible Jamaican wiseman who retells the Christmas story like you've never heard it before. Music by the Holly Hoppers will bring rousing fun to an already great night.

Learn more about Black Mountain NC HERE.

Last Chance to experience 2012 Candlelight Evenings at Biltmorefor Biltmore

Now through December 31 you still have the opportunity to see the remarkable  29th Annual Candlelight Evenings at Biltmore.  As daylight fades into dusk, candlelight and firelight accent Biltmore House’s extravagant holiday décor, accented by live entertainment and outside illuminations. 

Biltmore House glows with holiday spirit, appearing much as it would have at the turn of the 19th century. Carols from choirs and ensembles fill the halls with festive sounds. Candlelight Christmas Evenings tickets are available by reservation only, and include a self-guided candlelight tour of Biltmore House, next-day visit to the gardens, Antler Hill Village and Biltmore Winery. Advance reservations are required.

Biltmore - America's "Castle" - was built in 1895 by George Vanderbuilt and is preserved and maintained today by his descendants. With interior square footage over 4 acres, 250 rooms, 65 fireplaces, 43 bathrooms and an impressive collection of art and period furnishing it is one of the East's most popular attractions. Once a working dairy farm the 8,000 acre estate now includes a winery; trails, gardens & grounds to explore; an Equestrian Center, River Bend Farm, a luxury Inn and the newest addition, Antler Village. Plan on spending at least one full day or more to fully enjoy all that Biltmore has to offer.

Biltmore is located at One Lodge Street in Asheville NC and is open 365 days per year.

NC Holiday Events: "Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol" Performed in Asheville

December 19-30   Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol   is performed by The North Carolina Stage Company.  What happened to Scrouge's business partner Marley? Is he truly past redemption, or does every person deserve a chance to change, to do better? In this darkly funny and deeply touching holiday play by Tom Mula, see Jacob Marley’s heroic efforts to save Scrooge’s soul – and in the process, save his own.

Find more Asheville Christmas events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide. 

Last Two Weeks to Ride the Polar Express

Now through December 29 join join friends and family, visitors and locals for one of the most popular Christmas mountain events: The Polar Express on The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

All Aboard The Polar Express for a memorable journey to the magic of the Holiday season. The 1.25 hour round-trip excursion departs the Bryson City NC depot for a journey through a peaceful wilderness to a special visit at the North Pole. The motion picture soundtrack music plays as guests on board enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while reading along with the magical story. 

Children's faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the "North Pole" to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board The Polar Express, greeting each child and presenting everyone a special gift as in the story – a special silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung on the return back to the Bryson City Depot.

Find a link for the Polar Express and more NC Holiday Events on the NC Mountains Events Calendar

Asheville NC Cabins available for Last Minute Christmas Rental

Peaceful Vacation home near Asheville -3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 10. Enjoy the mountain views from your porch rocker. Wood-burning fireplace, grill, fully quipped kitchen, Located near the historic Vance Birthplace in Weaverville, 20 minutes to downtown Asheville.   See photos, details and availability.

Downtown Asheville Loft - 1 bedroom, 2 baths, sleeps up to 4. Renovated for comfort and convenience with original hardwood floors and exposed brick walls, upscale furnishings, HDTV, Internet, deck overlooking the city. $200-$250 night, $1050 - $1400 week.  See rental photos, details and availability.
Mountain Manor Vacation Rental with views -  4 bedrooms, 4 baths, sleeps up to 10. Mountain views from every window and 15 minutes to downtown Asheville. Hot tub, pool table, ping pong, HDTV, fireplace, Internet, grill. $285 night, $1850 week.   See photos, details and rental availability

Like staying in a tree house - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 4. Pet friendly "Swiss chalet" only 3 minutes to downtown Asheville.  Gas fireplace,  large picture windows, hardwood floors.       Get cabin photos, details and availability


Walk to downtown Asheville restaurants and galleries- 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, sleeps 4. Restored and renovated for comfort 1920s home with deck and covered porch, HDTV, WIFI. Great Asheville getaway for a weekend or  extended stay. $225 - $395 night, $1195 - $1795 week.   See rental photos, details and availability


Learn more about Asheville cabins, attractions and events on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

NC Holiday Event: Horse and Carriage Rides in Hendersonville

Now through December 24 Historic Downtown Hendersonville is offering  Horse-drawn carriage rides .   Explore Hendersonville's charming downtown area the old fashioned way - by a  horse-drawn carriage.

Rides are available every weekend, weather permitting.  Pick up a rack card at the Hendersonville Visitors Center, 201 South Main Street, and receive $5 off your ride,  good though 12/24/12.

Get a link for the Horse-drawn Carriage rides and other Hendersonville events, rentals and attractions on the Hendersonville NC Visitor Guide.

Sugar Mountain Ski Resort hosts SugarFest this Weekend

December 14 - 16    SugarFest, the annual weekend of winter fun at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort offers something for everyone who loves to play in the snow:

Demonstrations of the latest ski and board equipment -
Try out the latest ski and snowboard equipment from Salomon, Volkl, Nordica, Burton, Head, Never Summer, K2, Atomic, Dynastar, Rossignol, Ride, and Line - just about every manufacturer displayed in store showrooms! 9am till 3:30pm, Saturday and Sunday.

Pre-season Ski Clinic for Adults -
1994 Olympic Gold and Silver medalist, Diann Roffe, returns as this year's celebrity coach. 8:30am, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

After Ski Party and Fireworks Display -
Food, drinks and dancing to live bluegrass music by Boss Hawg. 4pm till 7pm, Saturday. Fireworks presented by the Village of Sugar Mountain. 5:45pm, Saturday. 

The Rail Jam -
Come out and watch or throw down with some of the area's best riders in the Ride Rail Jam session. 10am, Sunday.

Paul Wylie Olympic Silver Medalist -
Watch 1992 Olympic Silver medalist Paul Wylie dazzle us with his amazing skating talent. Followed by an on-ice clinic. 7pm Friday.

Meet and Greet Olympic Champions -
Olympic medalists Diann Roffe and Paul Wylie show their medals and sign autographs. 7:30pm, Friday.

SugarFeast -
Hot Chocolate and Whipped Cream Bar: 6pm, Friday. Soup Safari: 11am, Saturday. BBQ and Sweet Tea: 5pm, Saturday. Lots of food and drink to fill you up and enjoy! 

Get a link for SugarFest and Sugar Mountain Ski Resort on the NC Ski Resort Guide. 

Classic Car Show this Weekend in Old Fort

December 15   Classic Car Cruise-in   Held the 3rd Saturday of every month. Bring your car, truck or motorcycle. Downtown Old Fort, 3-5 PM. A free Sponsored by Route 70 Cruisers.

NC Holiday Events: Bed and Breakfast Inns Christmas Cookie Tour in Black Mountain

December 15-16   Christmas Cookie Tour   Nine inns and bed and breakfasts will be participating from noon to 4 PM. Visitors will be able to get nine uniquely awesome cookie recipes and sample the cookies while checking out each of the Black Mountain area B&Bs decorated for the holidays. 

A few of the participating Inns include:Red Rocker, The Madison Inn, Inn on Mill Creek, The Monte Vista Hotel.

The Black Mountain / Swannanoa Chamber's Visitor Center is co-sponsoring the event with tickets $10 in advance  available at the Visitor Center. Tickets will be available at all locations during event. Contact: Black Mountain Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce for additional details about the Inn tour (828)669-2300

Learn more about Black Mountain events, lodging and attractions on the Black Mountain NC Visitor Guide.

NC Holiday Event: Santa visits the Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center

 Santa at Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center  9 AM - 11 AM Breakfast with Santa ($3 per person). Kids of all ages get to eat breakfast with Santa. Professional photos will be available with Santa by photographer Mardie Drolshagen (for an additional charge) or bring your own camera to capture this special Christmas event.

6:30 PM - Movies with Santa.  Watch your favorite Christmas Classics with Santa.  Bring the whole family to a movie at the Stecoah Center. These movies are always G or PG rated . Admission is free, but donations are always welcome. The cafe will sell popcorn, candy, hot chocolate, ice cream and other concessions. Call the Center at 828-479-3364 for movie title.

The Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center is located at 121 Schoolhouse Road  in Robbinsville, NC

NC Holiday Event: Santa Visits Beech Mountain this Weekend

December 15  Santa Visits Beech Mountain  Santa makes a special visit to Beech Mountain to spread Holiday Cheer. Visit with Santa beside the fireplace and enjoy hot chocolate, cider and cookies at the 4 Seasons at Beech. After your visit, bring a homemade ornament and join the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce for the lighting of the town Christmas Tree.

Breakfast with Mrs. Claus Held at the Buckeye Recreation Center from 9 AM - 11 AM. Join Mrs. Claus for holiday cheer, Christmas stories and photos with the children. A light breakfast will be served free of charge, but donations are accepted.

Holiday Bed and Breakfast Inn Tour in Hendersonville Today

December 9   2012 Holiday Tour of Historic Inns and Cookie Caper  A self-driving tour is sure to get you in the holiday mood as you visit the decked halls of each inn. Six inns will be open, each inn has been beautifully restored and delightfully decorated to welcome visitors on this special day. These turn-of-the-century inns will feed the curiosity and holiday spirit of all who enter, including a holiday treat.

Learn more about Hendersonville Holiday Events, lodging and attractions on the Hendersonville NC Visitor Guide.

NC Holiday Events: Santa Climbs Chimney Rock Today

December 8  and 15 -  Santa on the Chimney  How is Santa able to climb down millions of chimneys around the world in a single night? He practices, of course. Witness Santa’s daring stunt as he practices on one of the world’s largest chimneys in Chimney Rock Park (315 feet tall).

Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy live holiday music, complimentary hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities and see live critters. See why Chimney Rock was named one of “10 great places to catch up with Santa” by USA Today. 11AM - 2 PM

Get a link for Santa on the Chimney and more information about Chimney Rock Park on the Chimney Rock NC Visitor Guide. 

Carl Sandburg Historic Site Hosts Christmas at Connemara Today

December   Christmas at Connemara  The Carl Sandburg Home (Connemara), a National Historic Site, is decorated as the Sandburg's did with traditional Christmas decorations, holiday music and programs. 

Take a leisurely stroll of the grounds and visit the goat barn. Musicians and storytellers will perform traditional holiday stories and music. Hot cider and cookies will be served. This is a  FREE event. 

Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site:  Carl Sandburg, American poet, historian, author, and lecturer spent the final 22 years of his long and productive life at his estate, Connemara, in Flat Rock, NC. Today this National Historic Site offers a keen insight on Mr. Sandburg, his family and their 264 acre working farm. The Sandburg Home was built in 1838 and now houses his collection of 10,000 books, notes and papers. The home offers daily tours.

Get  a link for the Carol Sandburg Home and Historic Site on the Flat Rock NC Visitor Guide.

NC Holiday Events: Asheville Celebrates with Chocolate and Crafts

December 8  Asheville Chocolate and Arts Festival   A multicultural arts event featuring performers, musicians and dancers from Asheville and beyond. Experience local artisans, baskets and basket weaving demonstrations by Gullah artisans, cultural arts and education by members of the Cherokee Nation, Bellydancing, African dance, Argentine Tango, Hip Hop, and local chocolate tasting by Asheville's finest chocolatiers and dessert-makers.

Performers will also be teaching classes in: Drumming, Bellydance, Tango, West African Dance, and digeridoo throughout the day which are all included in your ticket price. This is a family friendly event with Local children's performance artists Juan Halladay and the Secret B-sides, balloon twisting, face painting, and dance workshops. 25% of proceeds will be donated to Urban Arts Institute and Odyessy School to fund multicultural arts education for Asheville youth.

Learn more about Asheville Lodging, events and attractions on the Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

NC Holiday Event: Franklin Winter Wonderland

December 7    Winter Wonderland in Franklin   Franklin's Holiday Festival transforms Historic downtown Franklin into a Winter Wonderland. The event will be one night only with live music, Santa Clause, wagon rides and more.

5 PM - 9 PM. The Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet will be headlining the entertainment performing two concerts, one at 7:00 PM and the other at 8:00 PM. Artist Ryan McCurdy from Asheville will create a special slide made of ice for the young and young at heart to enjoy.

NC Holiday Event: Dillsboro Lights and Luminaries

December 7-8   Dillsboro Lights and Luminaries  Journey back to the days of yesteryear as Dillsboro presents its annual Festival of Lights and Luminaries. Experience the magic as the entire town is transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, candles, laughter and song! 2500 luminaries light your way to shops and studios. Horse and buggy rides available each night from 5-8 PM.

Shopkeepers provide live music and serve holiday treats with hot cider and cocoa. Carolers sing and children visit with Santa at Town Hall.

Learn more about Dillsboro NC HERE.

NC Holiday Event: A Celtic Christmas

Date: December 5 - 22  A Celtic Christmas   Join the Playhouse Downtown as it transforms with mist and candlelight for three Celtic singer/storytellers and a group of unique musicians who will ignite the Christmas spirit within you.

Traditional carols like Silent Night, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, The Little Drummer Boy, O Holy Night, and many, many more are given the Celtic treatment in this one-of-a-kind Christmas spectacular. This is a show you will want to share with the entire family!

A Celtic Christmas is presented by The Flat Rock Playhouse at the Hendersonville Playhouse Downtown. Get a link for this and other Holiday events on the Hendersonville NC Visitor Guide.

NC Holiday Event: Lighting of the Green in Asheville

December 4 - 18   Lighting of the Green  Celebrate the holidays with the Lighting of the Green, featuring historic homes on the Asheville campus of A-B Tech. Fernihurst, a restored 1870s mansion, and Sunnicrest, a former rental property of George Vanderbilt, will be decorated for the holidays.

Both buildings will also be opened to the public for free tours, with Fernihurst also offering light refreshments and entertainment.
Find more NC Holiday Events on the NC Event Calendar

Holiday Wine Tasting Today at the Vineyards of Swan Creek

December 1-2    Holiday Open House at the Vineyards of Swan Creek Visit the five Vineyards of Swan Creek and enjoy a complimentary food sample alongside a signature wine at each vineyard. Enjoy holiday activities and entertainment at each vineyard. Wine and gift purchases will be available for Christmas gift-giving.

Christmas Parade In Downtown Boone Today

December 1   Annual Downtown Boone Christmas Parade  Join Santa Claus and all your friends and neighbors on King Street in Downtown Boone for the Annual Boone Christmas Parade. The Boone parade takes place from 11 AM - 12:30 PM.

NC Holiday Event: Blue Ridge Christmas Crafts Show

December 1 - 24   Blue Ridge Artisans Show and Sale  An annual event open daily inside the McDowell Arts Council's Gallery. Free admission and you'll find a huge selection of textiles, wood, clay, silver and other mediums ranging from functional pieces to jewelry and decorative items plus books penned by local authors.

Hours are 10-6 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and Wednesday and Saturdays between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

Get a link and more details about the Blue Ridge Artisans Craft Show and Sale on the Marion NC Visitor Guide.

NC Holiday Event: Dickens Festival in Biltmore

November 30 - December 2   Biltmore Village Dickens Festival  begins today.  Historic Biltmore Village transforms itself into a quaint Victorian village with entertainment for every age and interest. The main stage will be filled continuously with musicians, choral groups, singers, dancers and the Montford Park Players.

This year the Festival will feature more than 300 performers who, after their stage segments, will rove throughout the Village entertaining on the streets and in the shops and restaurants.

 Friday and Saturday evenings will feature main stage concerts for the entire family. As dusk turns into evening, more than 250,000 white lights outlining the historic Village buildings will combine with the streetlights to enhance the ambiance.

Shops stay open evenings until 7 PM with many of the shopkeepers dressed in Victorian-era garb. In addition, there will be horse-drawn rides through the tree-lined Village streets all day Saturday and Sunday. Chestnuts roasted on an open fire by chestnut roaster Sakshi Gentenbein will be available next to the main stage.

Get a link for details about the Biltmore Dickens Festival on the
Asheville NC Visitor Guide.

Mountain Spirits: Beer tasting and Wine Tasting at Hops and Vines in Asheville

Beer tasting and wine tasting at  Beer Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC -

November 30,  5 - 7 PM   FREE beer tasting:  Taste the lastest from Terrapin Brewing - the new release of the Side Projects, limited brews that won't be around for long.

Liquid Bliss - One of the most interesting side projects we've seen in the store, this is thier peanut butter and jelly porter, made with real peanut butter and chocolate, with natural flavors.

So Fresh and So Green Green - This is a beer that celebrates the hop! You can’t get fresher or greener than this. Made with freshly picked, whole leaf, “wet hops” these off-the-vine beauties will encourage you to DRINK FRESH, DRINK LOCAL, and DRINK NOW!

Terrapin “Moo-Hoo” Chocolate Milk Stout proudly uses cocoa nibs and shells from Olive and Sinclair Chocolate Company to give this beer its great taste! An appetizing cold weather treat this sweet stout is rich creamy and uniquely satisfying. Beer and Chocolate together they truly make one of life’s great indulgences.

December 1, 3 PM - 6 PM:   FREE wine tasting of French Wines  from the Loire and the Langeudoc

Monmousseau Vouvray 2011: This soft white wine is made from 100% Chenin Blanc that is grown in the area of Vouvray in the heart of the Central Loire Valley. Excellent as an apereritif it will also perfectly fit with fish, seafood, poultry, as well as cream sauces. $12.99/750ml

Le Grand Bouqueteau Chinon 2009: This wine also hails from France's Loire valley and is made of 100% Cabernet Franc. With proud acidity, this perfumed wine offers notes of tobacco and dried fruit, and hits a balance that pairs well with both red and white meats. $15.99/750ml

Domaine De Fontsainte Corbieres 2009: This wine from southern France's Corbieres AOC is a hearty, rich blend of 60% Carignan, 30% Grenache, and 10% Syrah. Full bodied with ample blackfruits and an approachable velvety finish, this is an awesome value to keep warm with this winter. $12.99/750ml

NC Mountains Tasting Rooms:

Biltmore Winery, located on the Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC. Daily tasting and tours with Estate admission. Special events and tastings throughout the year.

Old North State Winery, 308 North Main Street, Mount Airy NC. Hours of operation are: Monday-Wednesday 11am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 12pm-6pm. Sample wines and browse the gift shop featuring wine related and gourmet gift items.

RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC Tours are "on demand" noon to six PM daily. Tastings are available noon to six PM daily and include up to 11 varieties of wine.

Calaboose Cellars, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews NC. Closed for the winter - re-open March 22, 2012Tasting room summer hours: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Noon to 5:00. This week check out the "Warden's White".

South Creek Vineyard and Winery, 2240 South Creek Road, Nebo, NC

Daily Tastings at Wedge Brewing Company, 125 B Roberts St. Asheville NC. Micro-brewery regular Tasting room hours: Monday - Thursday 4 PM - 10+ PM; Friday 3 PM - 10+ PM; Saturday and Sunday 2 PM - 10+ PM.

Daily Tastings at Greenman Brewery, 23 Buxton Ave., Asheville NC. The tasting room is open seven days a week at 4 o'clock, or maybe earlier

NC Christmas Event: Holiday Crafts Sale at the Folk Art Center

December 1   Guild Artist Holiday Sale   The Southern Highland Craft Guild presents the annual Holiday crafts sale at the Folk Art Center from 10 AM - 4 PM, milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Choose from a variety of gift items - at special prices -  including ceramics, jewelry, fiber, paper, glass and wood. 

Buying from artists supports the local economy and promotes the mission of the Guild which is bringing together the crafts and craftspeople of the Southern Highlands for the benefit of shared resources, education, marketing and conservation. An additional date is Dec 8 with different artists participating,
The Guild Artists’ Holiday Sale is held on December 1 and again on December 8. 70+ Members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild will be on hand in the center’s auditorium on these two Saturdays, with different artists each day,  to sell select work 10-50% off regular retail.

While at the Folk Art Center, be sure to visit all three galleries showcasing the work of current Guild members and collections from the Guild’s history.  Member work is also available at Allanstand Craft Shop, the nation’s oldest craft gallery, located within the Folk Center.

Learn more about NC mountain crafts and artists on the NC Mountain Crafts Guide.

Participating Artists include:

December 1 Participants

Lin Oglesby, fiber

Ed & Kate Coleman, pottery

Harriet Smith, polymer clay

I & K Leather Goods, leather

Mary Mikkelsen & Henry Pope, clay

Ann Gleason, Clay

Maud Boleman, clay

Tyrone & Julie Larson, clay

Ruthie Cohen, jewelry

Portfolio Metalwork, jewelry

Tom & Pat Bauman, jewelry

Diana Gillispie, clay

Judy Simmons, fiber

Jen Swearington, fiber

Q Evon, jewelry

Kelsey Schissel, clay

Cat Jarosz, clay

Janice Maddox, fiber

Buzz Coren, wood

Debbie Littledeer, paper

Charlie Patricolo, mixed media

Walt Cottingham, wood

Sandy & Ann Batton, clay

Ann Gleason, clay

Troy Amastar, clay

Dianna Gillispie, clay

Earth2 Art Pottery, mixed media

Diannah Beauregard, jewerly

Betsy Gray, clay

Rebecca Owen, fiber

Kathryn Faille, clay

Phillip Nolley, glass

Hamilton Williams, clay

John Gunther, fiber

Hank Goodman, clay

Martine House, fiber

Jason Green, wood

Nhia Lo, fiber

December 8 Participants

Patte Vanden Berg, fiber

Julia Gaunt, fiber

Magruder Glass, glass

Linda Caristo, jewelry

Rita de Maintenon, fiber

Jeff McKinley, glass

Marc Tickle, glass

Michael Rutkowsky, clay

Perry Holbrook, mixed media

Kathy Spencer, fiber

Allen Davis, wood

Bart Vinsh, wood

Chris Kamm, wood

Michael Hatch, glass

Robert Levine, glass

Nancy Darrell, paper

Laurey-Faye Long, clay

Rob Levin, glass

Steven Forbes-deSoule, clay

Doug McCubbins, leather

David Grant, clay

York Haverkamp, clay

Cheryl Hevrdeys, glass

Pat Poole, fiber

Maggie Jones, clay

Kathrin Weber, fiber

Martha Biggar, clay

K4 Glassart, glass

Jan Brooks, fiber

Susan Taylor, fiber

Peggy Whitted, fiber

Judy Brater, clay

Louis & Christine Colombarini, clay

Kristin Schoonover, clay

Cindy Riccardelli, mixed media

Friendswood Brooms, natural materials

Janet Taylor, fiber

Don Duncan, wood