What To Do in Boone During Thanksgiving Weekend

GraystoneLodge / November 20, 2025 /Things to Do

If you’re heading to Boone, NC for Thanksgiving weekend and staying at Graystone Lodge, you’re in for a treat. Nestled right in the heart of the High Country, Boone offers a mix of cozy mountain charm, family-friendly activities, and festive spirit that makes it one of the best places to stay in Boone, NC.

When it comes to planning your long weekend: you’ll want to balance outdoor exploration, great local food, and time to simply relax. Here’s a guide to make the most of your stay.

Graystone Lodge is a 101-room boutique hotel located in Boone, NC, that captures the spirit of the High Country in a warm, welcoming ambiance of a mountain lodge with an enhanced modern design and upscale amenities. Book your stay or learn more about our rooms. Subscribe to our email list to “stay in the know” about local tips, events, and promotions: Join the list! Don’t miss our Fall Special: Stay 3 Nights and Save 15% offer! Valid September 22, 2025 through December 21st, 2025. Book now and save.

Outdoor Adventures to Start Your Weekend

Late November brings cool mornings, soft afternoon sun, and scenic views that feel extra special around the holiday. Take a morning walk on one of Boone’s greenways or a hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway, breathe in the mountain air, and warm up with a coffee afterward. If you’ve brought your pup, there are plenty of pet-friendly trails to explore. Families may enjoy a short trail or a drive to an overlook—simple ways to slow down and reconnect.

Make Choose & Cut Christmas Tree Memories

Boone’s small-town charm captivates visitors year after year, especially during the holiday season. The air turns crisp, mountains sparkle with snow, and families bundle up while they hunt for the perfect Fraser fir. Sweet scents of pine and warm apple cider create unforgettable memories. Explore this magic at local Christmas tree farms!

Can’t-Miss Holiday Events in the High Country

Thanksgiving weekend is known as the unofficial start of the holiday season here, and the High Country goes all out. Below are some of the standout events happening throughout Boone and neighboring towns.

Blowing Rock Lighting of the Town, Christmas Festival & Parade

November 28, 12–6:30pm • Memorial Park, Downtown Blowing Rock
Parade: November 29, 10am–12pm on Main Street
A beloved tradition. Kids’ games, Santa visits from 12–3, live music from 2:30–6:30, and the Lighting of the Town around 5:30pm. The next morning, the parade fills Main Street with holiday cheer.

A Hometown Christmas – West Jefferson

November 28, 5–8pm • Downtown West Jefferson
A sweet, small-town celebration complete with a community tree lighting at 5:30pm, live music, antique firetruck rides, and Santa. A great family outing if you want something festive but laid-back.

“I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” – Live Show

November 28, 7pm • Appalachian Theatre, Downtown Boone
A family-friendly live theatrical performance by the Barter Players about Christmas at the Cincinnati Zoo. It’s charming, upbeat, and perfect for kids. Get tickets here.

Chetola Resort Festival of Lights

Daily at Dusk, November 28, 2025 – January 25, 2026 • Blowing Rock
One of the most beautiful light displays in the region. Over 50,000 lights twinkle around Chetola Lake. It’s free, peaceful, and absolutely worth the short drive from Boone.

Opening Weekend at Tweetsie Christmas

November 28, 29 & 30, 5pm–10pm
Experience the magic of a Wild West Christmas at Tweetsie Railroad! Nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, this holiday celebration offers something for everyone. Hop on a historic steam train, admire sparkling lights, sing carols together, and partake in joyful family activities. Don’t forget to visit Santa’s Gingerbread House to share your wishes and snap a pic with Santa!

Holiday Farmers Market – West Jefferson

November 22, 28, 29, & December 6 10am–2pm • Ashe County Farmers Market, Backstreet
For handcrafted holiday gifts, wreaths, garlands, pottery, woodwork, honey, baked goods, art, and more—this market is packed with local charm.

Holiday Market – Beech Mountain

November 29, 10am–4pm • Buckeye Recreation Center
Browse booths filled with local vendors and artisans. The Parade of Wreaths is on display, and Mrs. Claus has activities ready for the kids. Admission is free.

Thanksgiving Wood Kiln Opening – Bolick Pottery

November 29, 10am–5pm • Lenoir
A unique event for pottery lovers. Arrive at 10am to watch the kiln being unloaded, then browse face jugs, Santa jugs, hand-sculpted nativities, snowman lanterns, and functional wares created by the Bolick family and guest potters.

Santa at The Blowing Rock

November 29 & 30, 12pm–3pm
Kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus while enjoying stunning winter views. Free admission for children 12 and under with an accompanying adult.

Appalachian State Home Football Game vs Arkansas State

November 29, 2:30pm–6:00pm
The final Appalachian State football game of the season will be held on Saturday afternoon. Enjoy the livelihood of the Mountaineer fans at The Rock as they take on the Red Wolves.

Local Dining & Thanksgiving Meal Ideas

Sometimes the most restful holiday is one where you don’t have to cook. Boone restaurants offer hearty, festive meals with generous portions and warm atmosphere. Some spots take reservations for Thanksgiving Day, so call ahead. For the days after Thanksgiving, consider brunch or a casual dinner to keep things simple.

The High Country Host has provided a full list of meal options for the Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend: https://highcountryhost.com/Thanksgiving-Dinner-List-NC-High-Country-2025

A Quick Weekend Checklist

To keep your stay smooth and enjoyable, here’s a simple list:

  • Check in and settle into Graystone Lodge
  • Thursday: High Country Turkey Trot or a calm morning walk, followed by a Thanksgiving meal out
  • Friday: Holiday shopping, Blowing Rock Lighting of the Town, and Chetola Festival of Lights
  • Friday night: Downtown stroll or Live show “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” at App Theatre
  • Saturday: Holiday farmers market in West Jefferson or the Holiday Market at Beech Mountain
  • Saturday night: Tweetsie Christmas or a relaxing evening by the Graystone Lodge firepit
  • Keep layers handy—it’s chilly morning and evening
  • Bring your pet’s essentials for outdoor walks

Why Boone Is the Perfect Thanksgiving Weekend Getaway

Choosing Graystone Lodge means choosing comfort, convenience, and local hospitality right in the center of it all. It’s one of the best places to stay in Boone, NC for families, couples, and guests traveling with pets. You get cozy rooms, thoughtful amenities, and a front-row seat to holiday events across the High Country.

Thanksgiving weekend here feels warm, festive, and memory-filled. From parades to markets to quiet mountain moments, Boone gives you the perfect mix of lively holiday fun and peaceful retreat.

Check out other blogs: