December Events in Asheville, North Carolina

Winter Lights at The North Carolina Arboretum (11/15/25 – 01/04/26)

Winter Lights transforms the North Carolina Arboretum into a glowing winter wonderland, offering visitors the chance to walk through beautifully illuminated displays and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the gardens at night. Guests can sip hot cocoa, enjoy themed light features, and take in the magic of more than a million sparkling LED lights that make this event one of Asheville’s most beloved holiday traditions.

Christmas at Biltmore (11/01/25 – 01/04/26)

During Christmas at Biltmore, the estate becomes a festive showcase of wreaths, garlands, ribbon, and more than 100 hand-decorated Christmas trees. Visitors can explore the mansion during the day or experience the warmth of Candlelight Christmas Evenings, where glowing lights and live music enhance the historic charm of the home. Each room is adorned with stunning décor, making it a perfect place to embrace the season and capture holiday memories.

National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn (11/18/25 – 01/04/26)

The Omni Grove Park Inn hosts the nationally renowned Gingerbread House Competition, featuring incredibly detailed, handcrafted gingerbread creations from talented artists across the country. Guests can stroll through the resort to view the displays, enjoy the holiday decorations throughout the historic property, and warm up by the massive stone fireplaces. The gingerbread houses are true works of art, making this event a charming and memorable stop during the holiday season.

Holiday Sip & Shop at Grovewood Gallery (12/05/25 – 12/06/25)

During the Holiday Sip & Shop at Grovewood Gallery, visitors can enjoy warm seasonal beverages while browsing a curated collection of American‑made art and fine crafts — from hand‑thrown pottery and blown glass to jewelry, textiles, and home décor — all crafted by independent artisans. Live artist demonstrations add a personal, immersive touch to the experience, and visitors receive a 10% discount (with a few exceptions). It’s a relaxed and meaningful alternative to big‑box shopping — ideal for finding unique holiday gifts with a story.

Southern Highland Craft Guild Holiday Sale Markets (12/06/25 & 12/13/25)

The Southern Highland Craft Guild’s Holiday Sale Markets take place on Saturday, December 6 and Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway. These markets offer visitors an opportunity to browse handcrafted gifts like ceramic tableware, hand‑woven apparel, fine jewelry, wood‑turned bowls, blown glass ornaments, journals, cards, and more — perfect for thoughtful holiday shopping and supporting regional craft traditions.

Show & Tell Holiday Pop-Up Shop at Asheville Mall (11/30/25 – 12/24/25)

From November 30 through December 24, 2025, the Show & Tell Holiday Pop-Up Shop transforms an empty storefront inside Asheville Mall into a bustling marketplace featuring over 120 vendors. Shoppers can explore a wide variety of items — such as ceramics, jewelry, apparel, home décor, candles, art, and more — making it a perfect place to find unique gifts for friends and family. The pop-up runs daily during mall hours, offering convenience and a festive environment for holiday shopping.

Cirque de la Symphonie — 12/04/25

On Thursday, 12/04/25, the event Cirque de la Symphonie brings together soaring classical music and daring acrobatics at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville (formerly ExploreAsheville.com Arena). The night promises a family‑friendly holiday‑themed performance featuring beloved compositions by the likes of Tchaikovsky, John Williams, and more — all enhanced by aerial artistry and live orchestration from Asheville Symphony Orchestra.

Handel’s Messiah — 12/20/25

On Saturday, 12/20/25, Handel’s Messiah will be performed at First Baptist Church of Asheville, showcasing choral and orchestral works led by the Asheville Symphony. This timeless musical classic delivers powerful holiday spirit and inspiring music — a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a traditional seasonal concert in a beautiful setting.

Rudolph The Red‑Nosed Reindeer: The Musical — 12/05/25–12/21/25

From Friday 12/05/25 through Sunday 12/21/25, Rudolph The Red‑Nosed Reindeer: The Musical will run at Asheville Community Theatre. This family‑friendly holiday show brings the beloved classic to life on stage, offering a festive outing for families, friends, or anyone looking to enjoy a cheerful theatrical experience in Asheville’s winter season.

Holiday Ice Rink at Asheville Yards (11/26/25 – 01/19/26)

From late November through mid‑January, the Holiday Ice Rink at Asheville Yards gives locals and visitors a chance to glide across ice in a festive downtown setting. The rink is surrounded by twinkling lights, seasonal décor, and winter‑themed markets — making it a perfect outing for couples, friends, or families wanting a cozy winter evening close to the heart of the city.

Winter Hikes & Frozen Waterfall‑Watching around Asheville

For those who love a bit of adventure and don’t mind the chill, winter hiking around Asheville can be especially rewarding. Trails such as those in nearby national forests offer chances to see waterfalls — sometimes partially frozen and dramatic — and enjoy expansive mountain views unhindered by summer crowds or dense leaf cover. It’s a great way to soak in the quiet beauty of the winter landscape.

Holiday Chocolates & Treats at French Broad Chocolates

During the holiday season, French Broad Chocolates offers a delightful range of festive sweets that are perfect for gifts or cozy winter treats. Their seasonal offerings often include peppermint bark, cinnamon caramel apple white chocolate, cranberry‑orange chocolate, and specialty sipping‑chocolates like their signature “Liquid Truffle.” Pair these confections with a warm drink for an indulgent winter experience that feels distinctly Asheville.

Winter Ales & Holiday Brews at Local Breweries

As the cold weather settles in, several local breweries in Asheville ramp up their seasonal beer offerings. For example, the brewery Highland Brewing Company traditionally releases its “Cold Mountain” Winter Ale in November — a festive brew that many locals look forward to each year. Likewise, Asheville Brewing Company often brings back its seasonal “Ninjabread Man” Holiday Porter, and there are also wintry offerings like IPAs and darker ales at places such as Hi-Wire Brewing. Whether you love a hoppy IPA or a smooth porter with chocolate and spice notes — winter in Asheville is a great time to sample local craft beer under cozy holiday lights.

Festive Holiday Dining & Seasonal Menus at The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa

The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa is a classic Asheville destination during the holidays, offering warm fireplaces, festive décor, and special menus for the season. Guests can enjoy holiday‑inspired dishes, indulgent desserts, and cozy drinks across its restaurants and bars. Their seasonal menus have featured comforting southern dishes and festive desserts — perfect for a cold December evening. For visitors and locals alike, the Inn provides a timeless, festive setting that captures Asheville’s winter charm.

Thinking About Moving to Asheville in the New Year?

December is a great time to explore neighborhoods, admire winter mountain views, and get to know the Asheville community. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply curious, our team is here to help you navigate the market with confidence.