Whether you're searching for family-friendly festivities, charming Christmas markets, or outdoor adventures in the snow, this picturesque town has something for everyone. In 2024, Banner Elk's holiday events promise unforgettable moments filled with festive cheer, cozy mountain vibes, and breathtaking scenery. From dazzling light displays to traditional Appalachian celebrations, start planning your trip now to experience the magic of Banner Elk this holiday season!

Keep reading to explore the top holiday events, must-visit attractions, and insider tips to make your 2024 holiday getaway truly spectacular.

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High Country Holiday Events

Christmas at Apple Hill Farm (Nov 19 - Jan 3):

A guided tour of Apple Hill Farm, a working alpaca farm with many rescued animals, open to the public Wednesday through Sunday. The farm store, transformed into a Christmas shop, offers alpaca yarn, socks, scarves, and locally made gifts.

A Small Town Christmas (Dec 6-8):

This cozy holiday celebration in the Blue Ridge Mountains features a tree lighting, caroling, and the holiday musical A Banner Elk Christmas, along with a 5K Reindeer Run, Breakfast with Santa, and more festive activities. Weekend lodging packages include a choose & cut Christmas tree from Elk River Evergreens.

Beech Mountain Events

Beech Mountain Sledding Hill (Nov 29 onward, weather permitting | M-F 1-5pm. Holidays and Weekends 9am-5pm):

Beech Mountain offers the Southeast’s only municipal sledding hill, free and snow-enhanced for kids 12 and under. Families can make a day of it with nearby dining, the Visitor Center, and winter activities at Beech Mountain Resort.

Beech Mountain Holiday Market (Nov 30):

Holiday shopping at the Beech Mountain Holiday Market at Buckeye Recreation Center, featuring local crafts, jewelry, food, and art, plus live music, kids' activities, and a Parade of Wreaths.

Cookies with the Clauses (Dec 14, 11AM-1PM):

Meet Santa, share your Christmas wishes, snap family photos, and enjoy cookies with Mrs. Claus!

Beech Mountain Christmas Parade (Dec 19, 4PM):

The Beech Mountain Christmas Parade winds from Beech Mountain Ski Resort to the Sled Hill, ending with bonfires, games, and photos with Santa on the kite field.

Blowing Rock Events

Blowing Rock Christmas Festival & Lighting of the Town (Nov 29):

Main Street’s annual Christmas Parade brings holiday cheer with floats, costumes, and animals, starting at 10 a.m. Complimentary shuttles run from Shoppes on the Parkway, and families can also kick off the Choose & Cut Christmas Tree season from Thanksgiving weekend onward.

Festival of Lights at Chetola (Nov 29 - Jan 26):

A magical, free display of thousands of holiday lights around Chetola Lake, featuring festive scenes like glittering ice skaters, Rudolph, and strolling carolers, illuminating at dusk each evening.

Blowing Rock Christmas Parade (Nov 30):

The Christmas Parade on Main Street is a beloved holiday tradition, brimming with festive cheer, featuring colorful costumes, floats, animals, and plenty of Christmas spirit.

Boone Events

Festive First Friday and Solar Tree Lighting (Dec 6, 5-8PM):

Join the town of Boone's Festive First Friday and Solar Tree Lighting! Enjoy a fun-filled evening with Mrs. Claus, write letters to Santa, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, indulge in milk and cookies, and play with marshmallow snowballs. The Appalachian State Sustainable Energy Society will host the eco-friendly Solar Tree Lighting at the Jones House, adding a special touch to the festivities.

Appalachian Theatre Festivities, including A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas:

The Appalachian Theatre will be celebrating the season with holiday films, dance performances, and music shows, showcasing the High Country's favorite acts. Be sure to check their event schedule for dates and times of the upcoming festive performances, including A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas Dec 6-8!

Boone Holiday Parade (Dec 14, 6-8PM):

Takes place in the evening this year, and features festive marching performances, decorated floats, Christmas costumes, and a special appearance by Santa. The parade route runs east on King Street, from the Poplar Grove Connector to Hardin Street, spreading holiday cheer through downtown Boone.

West Jefferson Events

West Jefferson’s Holiday Parade and Light Up the Town (Nov 16, 3PM):

Local bands, dance groups, churches, businesses, fire and rescue trucks, and police cars will participate in this beloved holiday parade through downtown West Jefferson. After the parade, stay for the Light Up the Town ceremony, where thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the area, creating a magical atmosphere to kick off the festive season.

West Jefferson Christmas Crawl (Dec 6, 5-7PM):

Experience the holiday spirit in Downtown West Jefferson as the streets come alive with festive décor during the Holiday Gallery Crawl. Enjoy an evening of shopping, art, and music as local galleries and shops open their doors for this special event. Be sure to grab a map at the Ashe County Arts Council on Main Street to ensure you visit every stop along the way.

As you soak in the holiday cheer of the High Country, we hope this guide inspires you to create cherished memories with your loved ones. Don’t forget to explore the unique offerings of our local communities, supporting small businesses and celebrating together. And if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in the area, we’re here to help make your real estate dreams a reality. Wishing you a safe, joyful, and unforgettable holiday season!