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Event Series Village Nature Series

The Village Green’s Nature Series

Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

The Village Green and Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust invite you to the Village Nature Series, a summer lecture series exploring wildlife, habitats, conservation, and local cultural heritage. Expert speakers will host engaging talks on select Tuesdays or Wednesdays from April through September at 5:30 PM at The Village Green Commons. NEW for 2025! The Youth Nature Series offers interactive programs for kids of all ages on select Tuesdays in June, August, October, and December from 4:00–5:00 PM at The Village Green. Past activities include live animal presentations, Cherokee stories and games, nature walks, and sustainable crafts. All events are free, family-friendly, and held rain or shine—no reservations needed! Details about 2025 speakers will be available in February on The Village Green’s Community Events and Programs page. Special thanks to Cedar Creek Club for sponsoring the Village Nature Series. Don’t miss these educational and fun opportunities to connect with nature!

Free

Cashiers Designer Showhouse

The Cashiers Historical Society is proud to present the annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse, a beloved tradition that celebrates design, community, and the natural beauty of Cashiers. This signature event brings visitors from near and far, offering a unique opportunity to experience inspired interiors while supporting the preservation of the region's history and culture. About the Showhouse Each year, the Showhouse features a stunning home in Cashiers, carefully selected to highlight the charm of mountain living. The home is transformed by talented designers who blend creativity and vision to create a series of breathtaking spaces. The event also includes scenic outdoor areas that add to the overall experience. Special Features The Showhouse offers a range of experiences for attendees, which may include: Opening Night Celebration: An exclusive event to kick off the festivities with food, music, and camaraderie. Designer Displays: Talented designers showcase innovative interiors, offering inspiration for a variety of tastes and lifestyles. Vendor Market: A curated selection of vendors offering unique items such as apparel, antiques, home décor, and more. Support the Cause Proceeds from the Cashiers Designer Showhouse benefit the Cashiers Historical Society, supporting its mission to preserve and share the history and culture of the Cashiers Valley through education, advocacy, and community events. Tickets and Sponsorship Opportunities Details on ticket sales, Location, Benefactor Packages, and sponsorship opportunities will be announced closer to the event. For more information, contact the Cashiers Historical Society at 828-743-7710 or visit their website.

Event Series Groovin on the Green

Groovin on the Green

Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

Music fills the air in The Village Green no matter the season. Groovin’ on The Green remains a vibrant, FREE summer concert series, creating unforgettable music experiences for the community! Groovin’ on The Green concerts will begin at 6:00pm, RAIN OR SHINE, held on The Village Green Common’s Lawn. Please bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. Picnics and coolers are welcome! Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed and with their owners at all times. Food and beverage vendors will be on-site during each concert! The Village Green will continue offering the opportunity for a group to “Rent a Tent”. The Village Green will be providing fifteen 10×10 tents at $100 per tent, per concert. Tent reservation links will be open in early 2024, and are first come, first serve. Bands will be updated as soon as they are finalized.

Event Series Concerts on the Creek

Concerts on the Creek

Bridge Park 76 Railroad Ave., Sylva, NC

These mountains are known as much for the music that comes out of them as they are for their picturesque vistas, cascading waterfalls and alluring trails. Some of the world’s finest musicians have come from Western North Carolina and that rich tradition carries on today. Here in Jackson County, the Town of Sylva, Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce team up to produce the Concerts on the Creek series at the Bridge Park gazebo in Sylva every Friday from 7-9 p.m., typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The 15th annual season will start on Friday, May 23 (Memorial Day weekend) and end on Friday, Aug. 29 (Labor Day weekend). That will be 15 Fridays of Concerts on the Creek, with the Fireworks Festivities and concert on Tuesday, July 4 sprinkled in for good measure. Here is the 2025 Lineup: May 23 - Shane Meade & The Sound May 30 - Natti Love Joys June 6 - The V8's June 13 - The SophistiCats June 20 - Mission Accomplished Band June 27 - Darren Nicholson Band July 4 - Fireworks with Gotcha Groove July 11 - Stella Rising July 18 - Ska City July 25 - Suns of Stars August 1 - PMA August 8 - Arnold Hill Band August 15 - Dashboard Blue August 22 - Tuxedo Junction August 29 - Boukou Groove

Free
Event Series Groovin on the Green

Groovin on the Green

Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

Music fills the air in The Village Green no matter the season. Groovin’ on The Green remains a vibrant, FREE summer concert series, creating unforgettable music experiences for the community! Groovin’ on The Green concerts will begin at 6:00pm, RAIN OR SHINE, held on The Village Green Common’s Lawn. Please bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. Picnics and coolers are welcome! Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed and with their owners at all times. Food and beverage vendors will be on-site during each concert! The Village Green will continue offering the opportunity for a group to “Rent a Tent”. The Village Green will be providing fifteen 10×10 tents at $100 per tent, per concert. Tent reservation links will be open in early 2024, and are first come, first serve. Bands will be updated as soon as they are finalized.

Event Series Concerts on the Creek

Concerts on the Creek

Bridge Park 76 Railroad Ave., Sylva, NC

These mountains are known as much for the music that comes out of them as they are for their picturesque vistas, cascading waterfalls and alluring trails. Some of the world’s finest musicians have come from Western North Carolina and that rich tradition carries on today. Here in Jackson County, the Town of Sylva, Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce team up to produce the Concerts on the Creek series at the Bridge Park gazebo in Sylva every Friday from 7-9 p.m., typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The 15th annual season will start on Friday, May 23 (Memorial Day weekend) and end on Friday, Aug. 29 (Labor Day weekend). That will be 15 Fridays of Concerts on the Creek, with the Fireworks Festivities and concert on Tuesday, July 4 sprinkled in for good measure. Here is the 2025 Lineup: May 23 - Shane Meade & The Sound May 30 - Natti Love Joys June 6 - The V8's June 13 - The SophistiCats June 20 - Mission Accomplished Band June 27 - Darren Nicholson Band July 4 - Fireworks with Gotcha Groove July 11 - Stella Rising July 18 - Ska City July 25 - Suns of Stars August 1 - PMA August 8 - Arnold Hill Band August 15 - Dashboard Blue August 22 - Tuxedo Junction August 29 - Boukou Groove

Free

West Fork Recreational Flow Releases

High Falls 1965 Pine Creek Rd, Cullowhee, United States

This year, gear up for a spectacular display of nature's power and engineering prowess with the High Falls Dam Release at Lake Glenville. As the dam releases whitewater into the west fork of the Tuckasegee River, witness a transformation of the serene High Falls into a formidable force, creating class IV rapids over a 5.5-mile stretch. This rare event is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. 2025 Release Dates: April 26-27 June 14 July 5 & 26 August 9 & 30 The event is recommended for experienced boaters only due to the challenging nature of the rapids and the high flows. Duke Energy releases these flows to comply with license requirements and neither encourages nor discourages recreational use of high flows by the public. Visitors are advised to stay out of the water and enjoy the spectacle from a safe distance.

4M – Mountain Makers, Mushrooms, & Music Festival

Downtown Sylva 773 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC, United States

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Sylva, North Carolina, the 4M – Mountain Makers, Mushrooms, & Music Festival is a free, one-of-a-kind celebration of Appalachian culture that draws visitors from across the Southeast. Hosted by JAM Glass Gallery and Blue Ridge Forage, this lively event showcases the best of the region’s creativity, culinary delights, and musical heritage. Event Highlights: 80 Vendors: Explore a curated marketplace featuring handmade art, pottery, jewelry, woodwork, textiles, and more. 20 Live Art Demos & Workshops: Watch talented artisans in action and join interactive sessions to learn skills like blacksmithing, weaving, or mushroom cultivation. 20 Glass Artists: Discover stunning glass art and meet the masters behind these intricate creations. Live Music: Enjoy toe-tapping bluegrass, folk, and Americana tunes throughout the day, celebrating the region’s rich musical traditions. Food & Drink: Savor local flavors, mushroom-inspired dishes, and refreshments from food trucks and local vendors. Held annually in late summer, this vibrant festival transforms downtown Sylva into a hub of art, music, and community. With free entry and a welcoming atmosphere, the 4M Festival invites families, art enthusiasts, and curious travelers to experience the charm of Western North Carolina. Plan your visit for an unforgettable day of discovery, creativity, and mountain hospitality. For more details, visit jacksonartsmarket.com.

Free

Sapphire Valley Concerts on the Slopes

Sapphire Valley Resort 127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire, NC, United States

Experience the vibrant musical performances and lively community atmosphere at Sapphire Valley's "Concerts on the Slopes," a highlight of the summer season in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This annual music series is held at the base of the Ski Sapphire Valley slope, behind the Sapphire Valley Community Center. The family-friendly event features a diverse lineup of musical genres, including Motown, beach music, and classic hits from the '50s through the '80s, performed by both local and national artists. Concerts take place from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Tickets are available in advance for $22 or $27 on the day of the show, with a season pass for all four concerts priced at $75. Tickets can be purchased by calling 828-743-7663 or visiting the Sapphire Valley Community Center. Seating includes approximately 100 chairs available on a first-come, first-served basis, but attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets. Personal tents and tables can also be reserved with prior arrangements. Guests are welcome to bring coolers, food, and beverages to enjoy during the performances. The natural amphitheater setting of the ski slope offers excellent acoustics and a comfortable environment under the stars. For more details, including the full concert schedule and artist lineup, visit the Sapphire Valley Resort's official website or contact the Community Center at 828-743-7663.

$22

Green Energy Park Youth Arts Fest

Green Energy Park 100 Green Energy Park Rd., Sylva, NC, United States

This event is free and geared specifically towards kids with the intention of giving them a space to participate in a multitude of arts and crafts related activities. Our artists as well as community members provide demonstrations and/or activities for attendees to either observe or participate in. Demonstrations in glassblowing, blacksmithing, raku, flameworking, etc. are generally available to watch. Activities range in a variety of media, anywhere from ceramics, face painting, sewing, and so much more. Food is available for purchase on site from local vendors. There will be no on site parking available. There will be free satellite parking available as well as free shuttles running to and from all locations.

Free

Mountain Heritage Day

Western Carolina University 1 University Way, Cullowhee, NC, United States

The annual Mountain Heritage Day will be a combination old-fashioned mountain fair and showcase for Southern Appalachian music, arts, dance and song, with the atmosphere of a big family reunion. Visitors will find three stages of traditional old-time, gospel, and bluegrass music and dance, with plenty of fiddles, banjos, and clogging. Festival-goers are invited to join in workshops at the Circle Tent and participate in shape-note singing, one of the mountains’ sacred traditions. Admission and parking are free so bring your family and experience all that our rich heritage has to offer. Don't miss the Smoky Mountain Splendor Quilt Show at the Ramsey Regional Activity Center on campus, featuring 300+ quilts, displays, vendors and more. Mountain Heritage Day is recognized as one of the "Top 20" events in the Southeast for the month of September.

Free
Event Series Village Nature Series

The Village Green’s Nature Series

Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

The Village Green and Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust invite you to the Village Nature Series, a summer lecture series exploring wildlife, habitats, conservation, and local cultural heritage. Expert speakers will host engaging talks on select Tuesdays or Wednesdays from April through September at 5:30 PM at The Village Green Commons. NEW for 2025! The Youth Nature Series offers interactive programs for kids of all ages on select Tuesdays in June, August, October, and December from 4:00–5:00 PM at The Village Green. Past activities include live animal presentations, Cherokee stories and games, nature walks, and sustainable crafts. All events are free, family-friendly, and held rain or shine—no reservations needed! Details about 2025 speakers will be available in February on The Village Green’s Community Events and Programs page. Special thanks to Cedar Creek Club for sponsoring the Village Nature Series. Don’t miss these educational and fun opportunities to connect with nature!

Free

Event Series Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Show

Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Show

Sapphire Valley Resort 127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire, NC, United States

Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, the Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Festival is a must-visit event for anyone seeking an unforgettable cultural experience. This tri-annual festival celebrates the region’s rich heritage with a vibrant showcase of handmade crafts, folk art, live music, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a music lover, or a family looking for a fun-filled outing, this festival has something for everyone. The festival features an impressive variety of handcrafted items, including pottery, textiles, woodwork, and paintings, all created by talented local artisans. Visitors can also browse exquisite fine jewelry, from contemporary designs to traditional Appalachian styles, perfect for a unique keepsake or gift. Adding to the lively atmosphere, regional musicians provide captivating performances, creating a soundtrack that enhances the charm of the event. Families will appreciate the festival’s engaging activities, with a playground, classic games like corn hole and kerplunk, and buckets of bubble mix to delight children of all ages. For animal lovers, the festival partners with local humane societies to offer pet adoption opportunities, allowing visitors to leave with not only memories but also a furry new companion. Set against the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Festival is more than just an event—it's an experience that draws visitors from across the region and beyond. Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, the festival invites attendees to immerse themselves in the creativity, community, and charm that define the […]

Colorfest! Arts & Crafts

Front Street, Dillsboro 42 Front Street, Dillsboro, NC, United States

This unique historic town welcomes over 40 local demonstrating artists who will line Front Street with colorful art and demonstrate their work. Meet and talk with local artists, all the while surrounded by the spectacular beauty of the mountains. Sample festival foods, and enjoy indoor and outdoor dining and a brewery. Live entertainment throughout the afternoon.

Event Series Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Show

Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Show

Sapphire Valley Resort 127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire, NC, United States

Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, the Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Festival is a must-visit event for anyone seeking an unforgettable cultural experience. This tri-annual festival celebrates the region’s rich heritage with a vibrant showcase of handmade crafts, folk art, live music, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a music lover, or a family looking for a fun-filled outing, this festival has something for everyone. The festival features an impressive variety of handcrafted items, including pottery, textiles, woodwork, and paintings, all created by talented local artisans. Visitors can also browse exquisite fine jewelry, from contemporary designs to traditional Appalachian styles, perfect for a unique keepsake or gift. Adding to the lively atmosphere, regional musicians provide captivating performances, creating a soundtrack that enhances the charm of the event. Families will appreciate the festival’s engaging activities, with a playground, classic games like corn hole and kerplunk, and buckets of bubble mix to delight children of all ages. For animal lovers, the festival partners with local humane societies to offer pet adoption opportunities, allowing visitors to leave with not only memories but also a furry new companion. Set against the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Festival is more than just an event—it's an experience that draws visitors from across the region and beyond. Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, the festival invites attendees to immerse themselves in the creativity, community, and charm that define the […]

Event Series Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival

Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival

The Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

This annual fall festival celebrates the leaves beginning to change in the beautiful mountain village of Cashiers. This popular and free event welcomes 90 artisans to The Village Green park. Visitors will find unique, handcrafted wood, pottery, jewelry, fiber, and much more on display and for purchase throughout the weekend. Food truck vendors and live music add to the festive spirit of the event. This is a free community event! Hours are Friday and Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 10am-3pm.

Free
Event Series Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival

Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival

The Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

This annual fall festival celebrates the leaves beginning to change in the beautiful mountain village of Cashiers. This popular and free event welcomes 90 artisans to The Village Green park. Visitors will find unique, handcrafted wood, pottery, jewelry, fiber, and much more on display and for purchase throughout the weekend. Food truck vendors and live music add to the festive spirit of the event. This is a free community event! Hours are Friday and Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 10am-3pm.

Free

The Village Green’s Youth Nature Series

Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

The Village Green’s Youth Nature Series offers children of all ages a chance to explore the wonders of nature through fun, interactive activities. Held on select Tuesdays in June, August, October, and December from 4:00–5:00 PM, these programs are designed to educate and inspire young minds in a family-friendly setting. Each session features unique experiences such as live animal presentations, Cherokee stories and games, sustainable crafts, and guided nature walks through The Village Green park. Kids will learn, play, and connect with the natural world around them! Don’t Miss the Regular Village Nature Series! For adults and families interested in broader topics, the Village Nature Series runs on select Tuesdays or Wednesdays from April through September at 5:30 PM. Learn about wildlife, conservation, and local cultural heritage from expert speakers. All events are free, family-friendly, and held rain or shine—no reservations needed! Details about 2025 speakers for both series will be available in February on The Village Green’s Community Events and Programs page. Special thanks to Cedar Creek Club for sponsoring The Village Nature Series!

Free

Halloween Trick or Treat Street

Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

A frightfully-fun family friendly Halloween event! The Village Green, Albert-Carlton Cashiers Community Library, Jackson County Parks and Recreation, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau collaborate to bring the second annual Halloween Block Party along Frank Allen Road. Enjoy culinary delights from a food truck, plus lots of fun and games, and tricks and treats from participating organizations! A portion of Frank Allen Road will be closed so families and friends can walk to each organization! Rain or Shine

Treat Street

Downtown Sylva 773 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC, United States

Enjoy Trick-Or-Treating throughout downtown Sylva.

WNC Pottery Festival

Bridge Park 76 Railroad Ave., Sylva, NC

Showcasing the work of more than 40 master potters from 13 states, this year’s WNC Pottery Festival will be held at Sylva’s Bridge Park. A variety of clay art styles will be presented. Those who purchase a ticket online will be able to enter 30 minutes early for a special event preview. The festival is juried and the lineup of potters is impressive. You won't want to miss it! This event has been named one of the “Top 20” events in the Southeast for November. The $5 ticket includes a chance in a raffle; kids under 12 admitted free. Dogs are not permitted at this festival. Click here for more information.

$5

Gobble on the Green

The Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

Turkey, cornbread dressing, pumpkin pie, football, and family time…there are so many reasons to love Thanksgiving! Each family has their own activities and traditions to look forward to. The Village Green offers a Thanksgiving Day 5K Turkey Trot, Gobble on The Green on November 27th, 2025! Registration for the 5K will be open in the summer of 2025.

$35

Mountain Artisans Hard Candy Christmas

Ramsey Activity Center 92 Catamount Rd, Cullowhee, NC, United States

Regional artisans have their handmade on display for sale in this folk and heritage craft show. The show has everything from quilters to soap makers, basket makers, leather craftsmen, master jewelers and more. Started in 1987, the event has grown every year to become a holiday tradition. Free parking. Your ticket is good for both Friday & Saturday.

$5.00

Mistletoe Market, Santa on the Green & Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting

The Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

Visitors to The Village Green enjoy twinkling lights displays and the annual Cashiers’ Christmas Tree Lighting from Thanksgiving Weekend until the end of February 2026! The park becomes a winter wonderland to make your spirits merry and bright! To add to the festivities, enjoy an artisan gift market at Lewis Hall! Santa On the Green  Friday, November 28, 2025 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Lewis Hall Reservations are first come, first serve and will open in October 2025. Mistletoe Market Friday, November 28, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Lewis Hall Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting Friday, November 28, 2025 5 - 7 p.m. The Gazebo FREE. The highlight will be the lighting of the Cashiers’ Christmas Tree and Village Lights!  

Free

Mountain Artisans Hard Candy Christmas

Ramsey Activity Center 92 Catamount Rd, Cullowhee, NC, United States

Regional artisans have their handmade on display for sale in this folk and heritage craft show. The show has everything from quilters to soap makers, basket makers, leather craftsmen, master jewelers and more. Started in 1987, the event has grown every year to become a holiday tradition. Free parking. Your ticket is good for both Friday & Saturday.

$5.00

The Village Green’s Youth Nature Series

Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC, United States

The Village Green’s Youth Nature Series offers children of all ages a chance to explore the wonders of nature through fun, interactive activities. Held on select Tuesdays in June, August, October, and December from 4:00–5:00 PM, these programs are designed to educate and inspire young minds in a family-friendly setting. Each session features unique experiences such as live animal presentations, Cherokee stories and games, sustainable crafts, and guided nature walks through The Village Green park. Kids will learn, play, and connect with the natural world around them! Don’t Miss the Regular Village Nature Series! For adults and families interested in broader topics, the Village Nature Series runs on select Tuesdays or Wednesdays from April through September at 5:30 PM. Learn about wildlife, conservation, and local cultural heritage from expert speakers. All events are free, family-friendly, and held rain or shine—no reservations needed! Details about 2025 speakers for both series will be available in February on The Village Green’s Community Events and Programs page. Special thanks to Cedar Creek Club for sponsoring The Village Nature Series!

Free
Event Series Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries

Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries

Front Street, Dillsboro 42 Front Street, Dillsboro, NC, United States

Celebrate the enchanting Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries festival, a dazzling holiday tradition held annually during the first two weeks of December in the quaint town of Dillsboro. This remarkable festival beckons visitors from all corners to experience the magical ambiance created by the illumination of 2,500 candles and twinkling white lights. This festive event, which started as a one-night showcase of luminaries in 1983, has since blossomed into a highly anticipated multi-day festival, drawing both locals and travelers to immerse themselves in the festive cheer and camaraderie. Explore the glowing downtown streets, where the air is filled with the harmonious sound of carolers and the sweet scent of cider and cocoa, generously offered by the welcoming shop owners. Enjoy live music while the children will experience a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Indulge in the nostalgia of the season with complimentary horse and buggy rides, offering a charming perspective of the twinkling surroundings. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, the Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries festival invites you to partake in the delightful festivities and create wonderful holiday memories in this charming locale. The allure of this radiant festival extends beyond the sparkling lights and warm melodies; it’s an annual gathering of joy, tradition, and community spirit, inviting one and all to bask in the glowing warmth of the holiday season.

Free

Sylva Tree Lighting

Downtown Sylva 773 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC, United States

Kick off the holidays with Christmas in Sylva! Experience the joy of the town's holiday centerpiece as it is brought to life with twinkling Christmas lights. The event will take place downtown on Main Street at the foot of the Historic Courthouse at 6 p.m.

Sylva Shop & Stroll

Downtown Sylva 773 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC, United States

Get into the holiday spirit with 3 Festive Thursdays Leading Up to Christmas! Join us downtown on December 6, 13, and 20 for three consecutive Thursdays filled with seasonal cheer and late-night shopping. Don’t miss these magical evenings and the chance to shop, sing, and celebrate!

Event Series Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries

Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries

Front Street, Dillsboro 42 Front Street, Dillsboro, NC, United States

Celebrate the enchanting Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries festival, a dazzling holiday tradition held annually during the first two weeks of December in the quaint town of Dillsboro. This remarkable festival beckons visitors from all corners to experience the magical ambiance created by the illumination of 2,500 candles and twinkling white lights. This festive event, which started as a one-night showcase of luminaries in 1983, has since blossomed into a highly anticipated multi-day festival, drawing both locals and travelers to immerse themselves in the festive cheer and camaraderie. Explore the glowing downtown streets, where the air is filled with the harmonious sound of carolers and the sweet scent of cider and cocoa, generously offered by the welcoming shop owners. Enjoy live music while the children will experience a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Indulge in the nostalgia of the season with complimentary horse and buggy rides, offering a charming perspective of the twinkling surroundings. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, the Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries festival invites you to partake in the delightful festivities and create wonderful holiday memories in this charming locale. The allure of this radiant festival extends beyond the sparkling lights and warm melodies; it’s an annual gathering of joy, tradition, and community spirit, inviting one and all to bask in the glowing warmth of the holiday season.

Free

Sylva Christmas Parade

Downtown Sylva 773 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC, United States

Organized by the Main Street Sylva Association, downtown Sylva's annual Christmas Parade takes place along Historic Main Street and offers plenty of holiday cheer along with marching bands, floats featuring community organizations and a chance to see Santa! The start time is 3 p.m., and the parade lasts approximately one hour. For more information please call 828-586-2719 or click here.

Event Series Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries

Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries

Front Street, Dillsboro 42 Front Street, Dillsboro, NC, United States

Celebrate the enchanting Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries festival, a dazzling holiday tradition held annually during the first two weeks of December in the quaint town of Dillsboro. This remarkable festival beckons visitors from all corners to experience the magical ambiance created by the illumination of 2,500 candles and twinkling white lights. This festive event, which started as a one-night showcase of luminaries in 1983, has since blossomed into a highly anticipated multi-day festival, drawing both locals and travelers to immerse themselves in the festive cheer and camaraderie. Explore the glowing downtown streets, where the air is filled with the harmonious sound of carolers and the sweet scent of cider and cocoa, generously offered by the welcoming shop owners. Enjoy live music while the children will experience a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Indulge in the nostalgia of the season with complimentary horse and buggy rides, offering a charming perspective of the twinkling surroundings. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, the Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries festival invites you to partake in the delightful festivities and create wonderful holiday memories in this charming locale. The allure of this radiant festival extends beyond the sparkling lights and warm melodies; it’s an annual gathering of joy, tradition, and community spirit, inviting one and all to bask in the glowing warmth of the holiday season.

Free

Sapphire Valley Ski Slopes Open

Sapphire Valley Resort 127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire, NC, United States

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Sapphire Valley offers the area’s finest skiing facility, boasting a state-of-the-art quad lift, a learning center slope and newly expanded, multiple lane, 500-foot snow tubing run. The actual open date is weather dependent but typically around the second to third week of December. Just above 3,400 feet elevation, Sapphire Valley offers a 1,600-foot main run with a vertical drop of 200 feet and a 500-foot snow tubing run. And now, Sapphire Valley Ski Area offers a moving carpet to quickly transport you back to the top of the slopes for multiple runs throughout each 1.75 hour session.

Event Series Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries

Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries

Front Street, Dillsboro 42 Front Street, Dillsboro, NC, United States

Celebrate the enchanting Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries festival, a dazzling holiday tradition held annually during the first two weeks of December in the quaint town of Dillsboro. This remarkable festival beckons visitors from all corners to experience the magical ambiance created by the illumination of 2,500 candles and twinkling white lights. This festive event, which started as a one-night showcase of luminaries in 1983, has since blossomed into a highly anticipated multi-day festival, drawing both locals and travelers to immerse themselves in the festive cheer and camaraderie. Explore the glowing downtown streets, where the air is filled with the harmonious sound of carolers and the sweet scent of cider and cocoa, generously offered by the welcoming shop owners. Enjoy live music while the children will experience a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Indulge in the nostalgia of the season with complimentary horse and buggy rides, offering a charming perspective of the twinkling surroundings. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, the Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries festival invites you to partake in the delightful festivities and create wonderful holiday memories in this charming locale. The allure of this radiant festival extends beyond the sparkling lights and warm melodies; it’s an annual gathering of joy, tradition, and community spirit, inviting one and all to bask in the glowing warmth of the holiday season.

Free

Sylva Shop & Stroll

Downtown Sylva 773 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC, United States

Get into the holiday spirit with 3 Festive Thursdays Leading Up to Christmas! Join us downtown on December 6, 13, and 20 for three consecutive Thursdays filled with seasonal cheer and late-night shopping. Don’t miss these magical evenings and the chance to shop, sing, and celebrate!

Sylva Shop & Stroll

Downtown Sylva 773 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC, United States

Get into the holiday spirit with 3 Festive Thursdays Leading Up to Christmas! Join us downtown on December 6, 13, and 20 for three consecutive Thursdays filled with seasonal cheer and late-night shopping. Don’t miss these magical evenings and the chance to shop, sing, and celebrate!

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