ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Do you have relatives or friends planning to visit for the holidays? Are you looking for ideas of places to go and things to do? Not sure what’s open after Tropical Storm Helene devastated the area?
Asheville is open, and area artists, chefs and business owners are excited for visitors to return.
Here are some recommendations:
River Arts District: The revitalized industrial area that is home to numerous artist studios and galleries was devastated by flooding. But it is gradually reopening. Visitors may watch artists at work and purchase unique pieces.
Grove Arcade: The historic building has taken its holiday decorations to the next level. There are also plenty of dining and shopping options.
Breweries: Asheville’s beer scene features numerous breweries offering unique brews and lively atmospheres. Click here to see which breweries are open.
Restaurants: Savor diverse dining options, including farm-to-table menus. Click here to see which restaurants are open.
Biltmore Estate: America’s largest privately-owned home recently reopened after minimal damage from Tropical Storm Helene. Christmas at Biltmore, Asheville’s most iconic holiday tradition, showcases a classic Christmas that hearkens to the days of the Vanderbilts. Enjoy the lights and candles inside the home during the Candlelight Christmas Evenings at Biltmore tour. Christmas at Biltmore festivities run through Jan. 5, 2025.
North Carolina Arboretum: Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum features thousands of lights throughout the gardens. This walk-through experience features familiar favorites and new interactive experiences. Winter Lights runs through Dec. 31, 2024.
Biltmore Park Town Square: Beautiful lighted trees line the sidewalks in front of the many stores and restaurants.
Lake Julian Festival of Lights: The road circling the park becomes a magical journey through tunnels of dazzling lights. Experience the Lake Julian Festival of Lights through Dec. 23.
Gingerbread Trail: No holiday season in Asheville is complete without the National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn. This year, 45-plus gingerbread artists will display their cookie and candy creations at the Omni Grove Park Inn and local businesses throughout the community. Each gingerbread house will be accompanied by a QR code for visitors to make donations to the Always Asheville Fund in support of the community. Gingerbread entries will be displayed at local businesses through Jan. 5.
Folk Art Center: The center on the Blue Ridge Parkway showcases traditional and contemporary Southern Appalachian crafts, providing insight into the region’s rich artistic heritage.
Deck The Trees in Black Mountain: Black Mountain’s Deck the Trees fundraiser fills the Monte Vista Hotel and nearby shops with “Winter Wonderland”-themed trees to support the Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministry’s Fuel Fund. Vote for your favorite tree with a $1 donation through Jan. 6 to help local families stay warm this winter.
Please note the Asheville area is recovering from the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene. While many places have reopened, some may still be undergoing repairs. It’s advisable to check the status of specific sites before planning your visit.