ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Christmas parades and tree-lighting ceremonies will bring holiday celebrations to places across Western North Carolina in November and December.
Communities are planning events featuring marching bands, decorated floats, music, visits with Santa Claus and seasonal activities.
Here are confirmed events for the 2026 holiday season, organized by date.
Asheville Holiday Parade
Date: Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026
Time: 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Location: Downtown Asheville
Asheville’s annual Holiday Parade returns with decorated floats, vehicles, school groups, community organizations and performers. The parade is one of the city’s largest public holiday gatherings and traditionally draws spectators to downtown streets.
Information: Asheville Downtown Association
Hendersonville Christmas tree lighting
Date: Friday, Nov. 27, 2026
Location: Main Street, downtown Hendersonville
Hendersonville’s annual tree-lighting ceremony marks the beginning of its Home for the Holidays celebration. The event includes seasonal music, refreshments, a visit from Santa Claus and carriage rides.
Information: Visit Hendersonville
Grove Arcade Holiday Tree Lighting Block Party
Date: Saturday, Nov. 28, 2026
Location: Grove Arcade, downtown Asheville
The Grove Arcade will host its annual holiday tree-lighting celebration with live entertainment, an outdoor market and family activities. The free event is scheduled to include jazz performances, Asheville Ballet appearances and street entertainment.
Information: Explore Asheville
Hendersonville Christmas Parade
Date: Saturday, Dec. 5, 2026
Time: 6–8 p.m.
Location: Main Street, downtown Hendersonville
Hendersonville’s nighttime Christmas parade will feature illuminated floats, bands and community groups. The 2026 theme is “Country Christmas Lights.” The parade is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. and travel south along Main Street.
Information: City of Hendersonville
Black Mountain Holly Jolly celebration and parade
Dates: Dec. 5–6, 2026
Location: Downtown Black Mountain
Black Mountain’s holiday celebration includes downtown activities, luminaries, music, food vendors and a Christmas parade. Visitors can expect a combination of community festivities and seasonal shopping opportunities.
Information: Black Mountain Live
Weaverville Candlelight Stroll
Date: Friday, Dec. 11, 2026
Time: 6–9 p.m.
Location: Main Street, downtown Weaverville
Weaverville’s Candlelight Stroll includes holiday shopping, music, storytelling and children’s activities. The community Christmas tree lighting is scheduled for 6 p.m. The event takes place along Main Street, with participating downtown businesses and community organizations.
Information: Visit Weaverville
This guide will be updated as additional 2026 parade and tree-lighting dates are confirmed.