A High Country Christmas: Festivities Near Banner Elk
Each season in the High Country ushers in new blessings and an ever-evolving landscape as Mother Nature moves her paintbrush across everything from mountain valleys to grand summits. In our community, residents notice the changes from the comfort of their back deck, while spending time at one of our neighborhood parks or when pausing to admire the captivating waters of the Elk River. As the holidays approach, a flurry of festive events in our region mean family fun and memory-making has arrived. In today’s post, we’re spotlighting a handful of holiday festivities near Banner Elk that are resident favorites. We hope you enjoy this most wonderful time of the year!
A Small Town Christmas: Dec. 3-5, 2021
We recently spotlighted Banner Elk’s A Small Town Christmas[1] , which includes the annual lighting of the tree, Christmas caroling, a holiday variety show, the Reindeer Run, vendors with Christmas goodies, storytime with Santa, train rides, letters to Santa and much more. Visit the Banner Elk website for the latest and greatest on this holiday spectacular.
12 Days of Christmas
In nearby Linville[2] , the 12 Days of Christmas is a “wonderfully festive and interactive lights display.” Drawing inspiration from the 12 Days of Christmas, there are visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, dancing polar bears and a brand new Christmas village.
Chetola Resort’s Festival of Lights: Nov. 26, 2021-Jan. 30, 2022
Thousands of sparkling lights add holiday cheer to Chetola at their Festival of Lights, including a nativity scene, train, Rudolph and more. In the mood for a sweet treat? Look for s’mores by the lake on Friday nights during the festival. Strolling carolers add to the Christmas spirit, and gorgeous holiday scenes light up at dusk.
Boone Christmas Parade: Dec. 11, 2021
In nearby Boone, the Christmas parade will be held on Dec. 11 at 2 pm. There will be marching performances, floats decorated for the holidays, Christmas costumes and an appearance from Santa.
Tweetsie Christmas: Nov. 19-Dec. 30, 2021
Tweetsie Railroad is a popular spot for little ones year-round, but Tweetsie transforms into a winter wonderland for the holidays. Popular Tweetsie Christmas offerings include their nighttime train ride with thousands of holiday lights, a life-size gingerbread house with Santa, amusement rides and s’mores around the fire. All ages enjoy homemade treats, and shopping for Christmas gifts is available on-site. Advance tickets are required; please visit their website for details.
Appalachian Theatre’s Christmas with Elvis: Dec. 17, 2021
Christmas with Elvis means the King of Rock & Roll’s holiday hits performed by Matt Lewis. Lewis was named “The Best in Las Vegas!” by USA Today. Big Ray & the Kool Kats, the 12 piece King orchestra, will be backing Lewis to the delight of the audience. Get tickets to Christmas with Elvis on the Appalachian Theatre website.
Beech Mountain’s Christmas Parade & Festival: Dec. 22, 2021
Head to Beech Mountain Parkway on Dec. 22 for their second annual Christmas Parade & Festival. The parade will travel from the ski resort to their Sled Hill, featuring decorated floats, photos with Santa, a holiday bonfire, games and more.
Elk River Club is a private mountain golf community in Western North Carolina with the first Signature Jack Nicklaus golf course in the state. Residents and guests enjoy surrounding views of Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain and Grandfather Mountain. Amenities include an Equestrian Center, a private, on-premise airport, Har-Tru tennis courts, a pool complex, spa services, Clubhouse, casual and fine dining, fishing, events and more.
###