Who’s ready for twinkling lights and snow-capped High Country vistas? The holiday season is officially upon us, and Graystone Lodge is here to help you celebrate. We created a list of our favorite holiday events in and around Boone. And, of course, there’s lots of fun to be had on the slopes this time of year. Book a stay with us and enjoy all the wintry magic!
A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas
December 1 – 3
Tickets from $15
The Carolina Snowbelles dance troupe returns to the Appalachian Theatre in downtown Boone with its annual high-energy holiday show set to crowd-pleasing classics. It’s the High Country’s newest tradition! Afternoon and evening showtimes available along with a special Snowbelle Tea Experience on Sunday, December 3.
A Small Town Christmas in Banner Elk
December 1 – 3
Free!
Kick off the season with a weekend of small-town holiday fun that includes caroling and cocoa, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, holiday music variety shows, Breakfast with Santa, a 5K Reindeer Run, a nighttime parade of lights, and more. See the complete schedule of A Small Town Christmas in Banner Elk weekend at the link.
Boone Holiday Parade
December 9, 2:00 p.m.
Free!
Bundle up and pick a spot on King Street to watch the annual Boone Holiday Parade in downtown Boone. Be on the lookout for the man in the big red suit! Prior to the main event, stop by the Watauga County Public Library for free hot chocolate, treats, and seasonal activities.
Crazy Christmas at Mystery Hill
Daily through December 31
Tickets from $27.95
Perfect for all ages, Crazy Christmas at Mystery Hill features mischievous elves who are hiding in various hillside attractions — Professor Finnegan’s studio, the anomaly tour, the gem mine, the museum, and more. Your job is to find the elves and save Christmas!
Festival of Lights at Chetola Resort
November 25 – January 29
Free!
Each evening at dusk, the Festival of Lights illuminates the grounds of Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock. Walk or drive through the resort to see dazzling holiday scenes, strolling carolers and glittering ice skaters. This is a great option for anyone looking to see Christmas lights in Boone.
Festive First Friday and Solar Tree Lighting in Downtown Boone
December 1, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Free!
First Fridays are always a special time in downtown Boone, and things get even more festive in December! Galleries and shops will be open late, and you can enjoy fun holiday activities like carriage rides ($5), visits with Santa at Mast General Store, cookies with Mrs. Claus at the post office, and marshmallow snowball fights. Don’t miss the tree lighting ceremony at the Jones House Cultural Center!
Kruger Brothers Christmas Special at Appalachian Theatre
December 15, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets from $15
There’s nothing like a little live music to get you into the Christmas spirit, and the Kruger Brothers bring a classical-folk fusion that beautifully highlights the season and the High Country setting.
Tweetsie Christmas
Weekends through December 30
Tickets from $40
Tweetsie Railroad loves to embrace a holiday theme, and Christmas is no exception. The beloved amusement park transforms into a winter wonderland filled with more than a million Christmas lights, holiday variety shows, Santa visits at his special Gingerbread House, and more. See link for exact dates and operating hours.
From relaxing at our cozy grand fireplace to roasting s’mores at our outdoor fire pit, Graystone Lodge is a perfect place for a winter vacation full of unforgettable holiday memories and traditions! Make your reservation today!