The clean smell of a fresh-cut fir tree, gingerbread melting in your mouth, the glow of time together—December tantalizes with waves of good old-fashioned holiday nostalgia. But for some of us, the sound of jingle bells ignites an inner dread. If we’re honest, we can let the chaos of Christmas (the endless shopping, scheduling, and decorating) whisk us away, and come January, we’re left wondering what happened to the “tidings of comfort and joy.” My suggestion to you this season is simple: make room on your holiday calendar for special moments. Dare I say, ignore the shopping list? Put the Christmas cards aside, gather up your treasured ones, and make a magical holiday memory at one of these area Christmas adventures.
If you can’t get away this holiday season, these local Christmas adventures can provide some festive cheer.
North Carolina Christmas Adventures
For the Family: Polar Express Train Ride
If you’re a fan of this heartwarming holiday tale, or simply keen for a North Pole-themed excursion, hop aboard the Polar Express Train Ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. Departing from Bryson City, North Carolina (which is plucked straight out of a Rockwell painting), the Polar Express chugs its way to the North Pole, where Santa awaits with a special gift. The ride, a little over an hour, is set to the movie soundtrack, and guests can expect hot cocoa, treats, interaction with holiday characters, and a wonder-filled experience for the whole family.
45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC. Prices, which vary by date and class, start at $43 per adult, and $29 per child. gsmr.com/events/polar-express
For the Foodie: National Gingerbread House Competition
Once again, the Omni Grove Park Inn welcomes the season with the National Gingerbread House Competition, and be advised, these are not your average single-story creations. Expect to be blown away by intricately painted villages, elaborate Christmas scenes, and more, all on display through January 2. While at the inn, grab a cup of cocoa (or something stronger), settle into a rocking chair by one of the two massive fireplaces in the lobby, and revel in seasonal splendor.
290 Macon Ave, Asheville, NC. Public viewing Mon–Thurs & Sun after 3pm. Free. omnihotels.com/gingerbread
For the Romantic: Biltmore’s Candlelight Christmas Evenings
Experience a Christmas miracle during Candlelight Evenings at Biltmore Estate. While the front lawn’s enormous spruce, wrapped in golden lights, is enough to take your breath away, it’s no match for the interior of the house, which transforms into a Christmas wonderland with 62 trees surrounded by tasteful holiday décor. Daytime tickets are available as well, but an overnight stay in Antler Village will ensure that you enjoy the magic of the entire estate—the glow from its thousands of twinkling lights will keep you warm all the way through New Year’s Day.
1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC. Prices, which vary by date, start at $119. (800) 411-3812, biltmore.com
For the Outdoor Enthusiast: Winter Lights
Returning to its typical walk-through, open-air experience, Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum ignites the park, and visitors’ hearts, with a host of brilliant light displays that will excite the whole family. Wander along the paths through the gardens to the woodland edge, where creative designs shine bright around every corner. Fun fact: the whole display takes more than 12,000 hours of labor to set up and take down.
100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC. Through Jan 1, 6–10pm. Prices, which vary by date, start at $40. ncarboretum.org/winter-lights
For the Adventurer: Santa on the Chimney
We all know Santa’s an expert climber, but before the big day, he probably needs a little warm-up. For an unforgettable holiday adventure, watch the man in red rappel down the 315-foot chimney at Chimney Rock State Park in North Carolina. Don’t miss this one-time event on Saturday, December 4. Come for Santa’s descent down the sheer rock face and stay for the live music, hot cocoa, and visits with The Man himself.
431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC. Sat, Dec 4, 11am–2pm. Free with park admission: adults, $17; youth, $8. (828) 625-9611, chimneyrockpark.com
Illustration by Timothy Banks
