Annual Christmas Light Show a Spectatular Display

November 28 - January 1   High Country Lights   Northwest North Carolina's premier animated light show features over 100,000 lights choreographed to your favorite Christmas tunes on 96.5 FM. This free light show, hosted by Glade Creek Volunteer Fire Department, can be seen nightly starting at 6 PM Thanksgiving through New Year's Day. 6374 Glade Valley Road, Ennice NC. 

This remarkable light display has been the winner of "Best Animated" on the Tacky Light Tour for the last two years and promised to be no less spectacular for 2013. With 1000s of blinking lights the display uses LED technology on a large scale producing dynamic colors and using 80% less electricity.

Planning and preparation takes place all year long for this 100% volunteer, privately funded event. All donations made by appreciative viewers go to the local fire department for the support of community needs.

2013 High Country Lights Teaser from High Country Lights on Vimeo.

Tree Fest and Christmas Miniatures Art Exhibit Begins Today in West Jefferson

November 25 - December 27    Tree Fest and Christmas Miniatures Art Exhibit    Beautifully decorated trees with handcrafted ornaments, holiday crafts, gift items and miniature paintings and photography. The gallery shop is also full of handmade ornaments available for purchase. An
Artist reception will be held December 6 from 5-8 PM.

The Ashe County Arts Council sponsors local arts and crafts events throughout the year including both visual arts and performing arts.

Get a link for the Tree Fest, the Ashe County Arts Council and other local event, attractions and lodging on the West Jefferson NC Guide.

 

The Grove Park Inn Hosts Thanksgiving Celebration

November 26 - December 28   Thanksgiving Celebration at the Grove Park Inn   Enjoy elegant and lavish buffets in addition to The Macy's Day parade and football games on the big screen, plus live music throughout the resort.

Other weekend activities include The National Gingerbread House Competition™ display, the traditional tree-lighting ceremony and even a visit from Santa.  Bring your family and friends and enjoy a truly classic holiday weekend at The Omni Grove Park Inn.


The Omni Grove Park Inn includes a renowned spa, scenic golf course, sports complex with pool, tennis, racquetball, training. Onsite restaurants, lounge, bars. A large variety of rooms and suites, varying stages of updates with some original Inn antiques.  See current BEST rates with lowest rate guarantee or book online now  

Waynesville Holiday Open House

November 24   Holiday Open House   Spend the afternoon enjoying the sights, scents and sounds as the holiday season begins in festively decorated shops and galleries. Enjoy holiday music offered by area Church groups and elementary school choruses. Visit with Santa as he strolls the sidewalks and sample tasty refreshments offered by the local bed & breakfasts on the Cookie Tour.

Get links for complete visitor information on the Waynesville NC Guide 

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Santa's Gift Shop and Food Drive in Franklin

November 29 -30  Macon County CareNet has joined with Santa's Gift Shop for a food drive to help replenish the stock at the CareNet Food Pantry. The Drive will be held at the annual Santa's Gift Shop at the Macon County Community Facilities Building on Hwy 441 S (Georgia Rd) in Franklin NC.  $1.00 admission OR 1 non-perishable food item to be donated to CareNet.

Santa’s Gift Shop is MV Craft Shows Christmas themed show. Come get in the Christmas shopping mood with  festive decorations, music and a jolly atmosphere. In addition to their usual great crafts, the vendors will also display Christmas themed crafts such as decorations, clothing, baked goods and lots of great gifts. Santa himself will also be present to visit with kids of all ages.

CareNet was founded in 1988 by a group of local people who attended different churches but wanted to come together to form an alliance between their churches and other groups who provided assistance to the community. Their goal was to better serve the community in times of crisis and to do so by working from one central location.

Since then CareNet has opened a thrift store, in 1997, to aid in the funding of their services and has also created more than 10 programs to help the local community.

Get links for lodging, attractions and local information on the Franklin NC Guide.

Small Business Saturday in Saluda

November 30 -  The 4th Annual Saluda Small Business Saturday.  This year's event, falls between black Friday and cyber Monday on Thanksgiving weekend. Created in 2009 to recognize small businesses as the heart of the American economy,  Small Business Saturday has become a boon to independent retailers. Last year over 100 million consumers came together in cities across the country to "shop small" and celebrate all that small local businesses do for their communities.

Saluda NC perfectly represents "small town USA" with a Main Street comprised entirely of small independent businesses. "Just like good wine reflects the flavor of the grapes in the region where they are grown, local small businesses reflect the beauty and character of their communities. By supporting our individual entrepreneurs, we maintain and enhance the beauty and unique characteristics of our community and our quality of life. When we choose to buy our food from regional farmers and support local independent businesses over corporate conglomerates we contribute to the health of our community, and our world" said local art gallery owner Shelley DeKay of Heartwood Gallery.

Saluda's century-old buildings are now home to art studios and craft galleries, gift shops, wine shops, baked goods, restaurants and general merchandise. Whether you spend the day or the entire weekend you will refresh and renew in the comfort of the small town pleasures still alive - and well - and living in Saluda NC.  

The Grove Park Inn Hosts National Gingerbread House Competition

November 20 - January 2   The National Gingerbread House Competition and Display    Contestants from across the country bring their architectural masterpieces to The Grove Park Inn for display over the holidays. Delight in the imagination shown in these sugar-and-spice creations, strolling through the competition is a sure way to be swept up in the holiday spirit. 


There is no admission charge to view the entries to the National Gingerbread House Competition. In addition to the gingerbread display, see the beautiful holiday decorations throughout the Grove Park Inn and warm by the giant fireplaces in the grand lobby. Pick up a map in the lobby to find the various areas where the gingerbread entries are displayed.



The Omni Grove Park Inn includes a renowned spa, scenic golf course, sports complex with pool, tennis, racquetball, training. Onsite restaurants, lounge, bars. A large variety of rooms and suites, varying stages of updates with some original Inn antiques.  See current BEST rates with lowest rate guarantee or book online now  

The Flat Rock Playhouse Downtown Presents a Disney Favorite

November 15 - 24   Disney's Mulan Jr   at the Playhouse Downtown, 125 S Main Street in historic Hendersonville NC. Join the YouTheatre students as they present a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and a fighting spirit.

Based on the hit Disney movie and set in ancient China, this story of adventure, courage and bravery is one for all ages. The story begins as Mulan’s big day with the village Matchmaker is wrecked by her nervousness, thereby dishonoring her family. When her Father, Fa Zhou, is unexpectedly called to the army, Mulan’s adventure begins.

Get links for complete local information on the Hendersonville NC Visitor Guide. 

Stories of Mountain Folk for the week of 11-9-13

Stories of Mountain Folk is a weekly podcast produced by Catch the Spirit of Appalachia and archived in the Hunter Library Digital Collection at Western Carolina University.
 
November 9, 2013 -

Storytelling: In her story “The Second Floor Attic,” Amy shares a story about her family when they lived at the old Hooper House on Chastine Road in Tuckasegee in the ‘50s. Background music: “Tiptoe Through the Tulips” by Chet Atkins

Creative Corner: Doreyl’s guest is Tim Muth from the Green Energy Park in Dillsboro who tells about what they do at the park, and about exercising the creative spirit.  Music: “Little Dew Drop” by the Butterpats.

Stories of Mountain Folk: Once more Amy welcomes Marcella Huguelet of Sylva, who in this interview tells some humorous stories about her legendary uncle—Doctor John Painter (Doc Painter) of Sylva.  Music: "Angels Unaware" by The Cockman Family.

Stories of the Cherokee: Robert’s guest is Brandon Stephens (who now lives in Nashville, Tennessee) who talks about his experiences as a Cherokee Indian growing up in Jackson County.  Music: “Ant Dance” by Bo Taylor.

Closing Song: "The Whup of Love” by the Andy Statman Band.

To Listen to this week's Stories of Mountain Folk, CLICK HERE

Holiday Events: Murphy Hometown Christmas

November 15 - 16   Murphy Hometown Christmas Celebration  The Celebration begins at 6 PM with a tree lighting ceremony, music and entertainment. Shopping day will be Saturday, November 16th, complete with Santa strolling around town and merchants offering incentives to shoppers such as sales, snacks, etc.

Murphy North Carolina, the county seat of Cherokee County, has the distinction of being known as both the first and last town in North Carolina, depending on which way you're going, of course. Murphy began as an Indian trading post called Huntersville, then Huntington, and finally was named after Archibald D. Murphy, who was a state senator and an advocate of education in Western North Carolina.

Cherokee County, is a special place in the southwestern corner of North Carolina where the forested mountains touch the sky, the lakes sparkle, the air is crisp and clean, and the charm of small town America still exists. Learn more about Murphy NC HERE.

North Carolina Author Jean Frady Book Signing

November 24, 2 PM - 4 PM at the Tuckasegee Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Tuckasegee, NC  Jean Frady will sign copies of her new book, “Going Home—Living in Green Pastures”.

In 2011 Jean Frady sat down to write the story of her life at the age of 84,  “God Will Make A Way.” At that point, Jean’s husband, Cecil, was 83. Living in Tuckasegee, North Carolina the two had spent many years of life together. When Jean started the book, she had a deep desire to finish the book as soon as possible, for Cecil was very ill, and he desired to see the book completed. She also intended to give the book to her children for Christmas.

Just in time for the holidays, the book came out, and Jean’s first book signing was conducted in January, 2012 at the Tuckasegee Baptist Church in the small community of Tuckasegee. Throngs of people came,and all of the books were sold, plus. A smiling Cecil was there to see the happiness on Jean’s face. What a glorious thing! From that time on until he passed away in July 2012, he always kept her book next to his Bible.

And now, in her new book, “Going Home—Living in Green Pastures,” Jean is sharing her tribute to a husband and minister who was not only God’s man, but the people’s man...a man who loved above all else. Her second book signing, this one for the new book, will once again be held at the Tuckasegee Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Tuckasegee, NC, on Sunday afternoon, November 24, 2013, from 2—4pm. Refreshments will be served. 

-submitted by Amy Ammons Garza

Catch the Spirit of Appalachia

Holiday Events: Annual Holiday Parade in West Jefferson

November 16   Annual Holiday Parade   This year's theme is "Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow." Locals Bands, Dance Groups, Churches, Businesses, Fire/Rescue Trucks, Police Cars & more participate in the Parade each year. Santa will be there as well! Come be part of this annual community event to kick off the Holidays.

Learn more about West Jefferson NC HERE.  

The Flat Rock Playhouse Presents Disney's Mulan Jr

November 15 - 24   Disney's Mulan Jr   at the Playhouse Downtown. Join the Flat Rock Playhouse YouTheatre students as they present a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and a fighting spirit.

Based on the hit Disney movie and set in ancient China, this story of adventure, courage and bravery is one for all ages. The story begins as Mulan’s big day with the village Matchmaker is wrecked by her nervousness, thereby dishonoring her family. When her Father, Fa Zhou, is unexpectedly called to the army, Mulan’s adventure begins.

Get a link for Disney's Mulan Jr and other local  events and information on the Hendersonville NC Guide.

Veterans Day Weekend events in the Mountains

Date: November 8 - December 29
NC City: BRYSON CITY
Event: The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Journey to the North Pole via the Polar Express to pick up Santa all the while enjoying caroling, cookies, and cocoa - and for those who truly believe; a silver bell just like in the book. Kids of all ages will believe in the magic of ...read more or get a link
 
Date: November 9 - January 4, 2014
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: Candlelight Christmas Evenings at Biltmore Explore Biltmore House during holiday evenings when candles and fireplaces fill the grand home with a warm glow, accenting delicate ornaments and priceless treasures with metallic shine and sparkle, and music warms the heart. Your evening admission includes: a Reserved evening visit of Biltmore House, Daytime access to Biltmore Gardens and...read more or get a link

November 9
NC City: NORTH WILKESBORO
Event: Black Cat Station Open House Black Cat Station is home of a large "H.O." Scale Model Railroad operating many trains at one time. The facility also hosts many cultural events and private parties. 10 AM - 2 PM. 
Date: November 9
NC City: TRYON
Event: Tryon Beer Fest - Tap into Tryon Held from noon until 8 PM in the Tryon Depot Plaza. Enjoy a variety of the finest craft beers from around the country, including some local ones. An array of ‘craft’ beers will be chilled, ready for sampling. Full servings of beer will be available for sale. Authentic German fare will be available from Occasions Catering including Kielbasas, Bratwurst, Bavarian sauerkraut, and ...read more or get a link 
November 9
NC City: FERGUSON
Event: End of Harvest Barn Dance at Leatherwood Mountains Local bands will come to Leatherwood Mountains to play NC contra music. The covered pavilion will be set up for an evening of dancing. Cover charge $10 with a can of food for the hungry, $15 if you don’t contribute food. All donations will go to...read more or get a link


Date: November 9
NC City: BEECH MOUNTAIN
Event: Community Bonfire Held at 8 PM at the Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria. Come cozy up around the fire as you roast s’mores, drink cider and cocoa and sing along to the rhythm of the guitar string. Free food, beverages, and music ...read more or get a link

November 9 - 10
NC City: MARION
Event: Foothills Holiday Arts and Craft Show The area’s best talent will be showcased for two days of art and crafts including oil, pastel and watercolor paintings, drawings, wood and metal works, textile arts, jewelry and much more. Commercial vendors are not allowed at this event. You’ll find regional ...read more or get a link

November 9 - 10
NC City: ASHEVILLE
Event: River Arts District Studio Stroll The first, largest, and most walkable tour of working artists' studios in the region, the River Arts District Studio Stroll takes place in 19 historic buildings along the French Broad River. There will be artists' demonstrations and hands-on activities throughout ...read more or get a link

 
November 11
NC City: FRANKLIN
Event: Veteran's Day Parade 11 AM in downtown Franklin.  ...read more or get a link

November 11
NC City: Columbus
Event: Veteran's Day Celebration 2NC Mounted Infantry pays tribute to Veterans with a Parade and Service....read more or get a link

 Find more NC mountain events and festivals
on the Events Calendar

Holiday Event:Annual Van Wingerden Open House

November 9   Van Wingerden International Open House   From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM you'll find acres of poinsettias in full bloom with employees on hand to share how the plants are grown using environmental friendly technology as well as answer your questions.

The greenhouses are located on Highway 191 (Haywood Road) in Mills River NC. See the ocean of Christmas Poinsettias and other flowering plants before they are shipped to retail stores for the holidays. There will also be live music, educational displays, and refreshments. 

Mills River is located between Asheville and Hendersonville. 

Beech Mountain Resort Prepares for Ski Season

New for Beech Mountain's 2013-14 Ski Season will be 12 new SMI Super PoleCat snow guns, upping their system to 40 total SMI guns. This gives Beech Mountain the most sophisticated snow making system available today. The addition is part of on-going efforts to expand and upgrade snow making capabilities and will provide the capability to produce more snow than ever before, and produce it more efficiently. The end result is a more enjoyable experience for skiers and snowboarders.

Another new feature at Beech Mountain is the spectacular skybar, providing food and beverage service at the top of the mountain. This newly-constructed facility has been named "5506", paying tribute to the elevation that gives Beech Mountain the title of highest ski area in eastern America. Step off the chairlift and into a cozy, glass roundhouse, where you can enjoy food, drinks and snacks in comfort. Be sure to check out the large deck, with beautiful panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

One of the key operational improvements at Beech Mountain is the streamlining of hours of operation. Skiers and snowboarders will now be able to enjoy the slopes on a continuous basis from daytime to night time without sessions breaks. Sunday through Thursday, the resort's operating hours will be 9 AM-9 PM with no session break. Fridays, Saturdays and holidays, the resort will operate from 9 AM to 10 PM with no session break. The streamlined hours allow a longer and more enjoyable experience for our customers.

Get a link for more details about Beech Mountain Resort on the NC Ski Resort Guide. 

The Flat Rock Playhouse Presents The Three Musketeers

November 7 - 23     The Three Musketeers    This adaptation, based on Alexandre Dumas’ timeless swashbuckling story, is a humorous tale of heroism, treachery, close escapes and above all, honor. The story, set in 1625, begins with d’Artagnan setting off for Paris in search of adventure.

Along with d’Artagnan goes Sabine, his sister, who poses as a young man and quickly becomes entangled in her brother’s escapades.

Evening Performances: Wed Sat: 8:00 pm, Matinee Performances: Wed, Thurs, Sat & Sun: 2:00 PM.

Get links for more Flat Rock Playhouse performances and local visitor information on the Flat Rock NC Guide. 

Grandfather Mountain 8th Annual Winter Weather Contest

The Woolly Worm made its prediction at last month's Festival and all the weather experts are completing their forecasts for the coming winter.  Now it’s your turn. This year marks the 8th Annual Winter Weather Contest for Grandfather Mountain E-Club members.

“Winter” for this contest refers to November 15 through April 15. Those interested are asked to fill out the questionnaire  with their winter predictions.

Once again the snowfall measurement used for this winter's contest will be taken from data gathered at the Entrance Gate to Grandfather Mountain. High winds at the top of the Mountain have affected precipitation data in previous years and the amount recorded at that location is generally less than what the Mountain actually experiences. Temperature and wind readings continue to come from the top of the Mountain. Grandfather’s previous winter weather data has been included under some questions to provide reference.

A Winter Weather Winner will be named at the end of April and will receive a day pass for six to the Mountain with lunch included at Mildred’s Grill.

All Grandfather Mountain Winter Weather forecasts must be received by Thursday, November 14, 2013 at midnight.

Cider Lovers Alert: 1st Annual CiderFest in Weaverville NC

November 10, 2013 from 1 PM - 5 PM:   The WNC Green Building Council is hosting the 1st Annual CiderFest NC.  Six of Western North Carolina Cidermakers and one South Carolina Cidermaker will participate in the festival held at the Echoview Fiber Mill- 76 Jupiter Road, Weaverville on Sunday.
CiderFest NC will be the first of its kind in Western North Carolina and will feature Black Mountain Ciderworks, McRitchie Winery & Ciderworks, Noble Hard Cider, Three Sisters Cidery, Urban Orchard Cider Co., and Windy Hill Orchard as they serve up one of the coolest ways to use the many apples grown in our region.
Purchase tickets HERE    - a limited number will be sold. so BUY NOW.

The CiderFest will feature something for all ages including a tour of Echoview Fiber Mill - the first LEED Gold certified manufacturing mill; “Hard Cider 101: The Sustainable Sauce” discussion by Urban Orchard Cider Co.; live old-time music by the Carolina Bog Turtles and Celtic music by the Bare Knuckle Quartet; cider and cheese tasting; cornhole tournaments;  pumpkin painting for the kids or young at heart.  The event will happen RAIN or SHINE.

All proceeds will support the important work the WNC Green Building Council has been doing for 12 years in the Asheville area community: promoting environmentally sustainable and health conscious building practices through community education and innovative programs.  

 This is a Slow Food and Slow Food Asheville endorsed event.