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🌟 Forest City Hometown Holidays
Visit the #1 Christmas Town in Western North Carolina
November 27 – January 1
Each winter, Forest City transforms into one of the most dazzling holiday destinations in the Southeast — with over a million lights, warm smiles around every corner, horse-drawn carriages, and festive fun for families, friends, and visitors of all ages.
Signature Events
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Lighting Ceremony
Thanksgiving Night, Nov 27 | 6:30–9PM
Watch Forest City flip the switch and light up the season in spectacular style. -
Christmas Parade
Sunday, Nov 30 | 3–5PM
Floats, bands, hometown pride — the perfect kickoff to the holidays. -
Carriage Rides
Fridays & Saturdays, Dec 5–20 | 6–8:45PM
A storybook ride beneath the lights.
Reservations begin Dec 1 at ExploreForestCity.com. -
Hayrides
Fridays & Saturdays, Dec 5–20 | 6–9PM -
Ice Skating
Nov 27–Dec 20 | Select nights starting at 6PM
Glide, twirl, and laugh on synthetic ice that feels just like the real thing. -
Visit with Santa
Fridays & Saturdays, Dec 5–20 | 6–9PM -
Santa Paws
Sundays, Dec 7, 14 & 21 | 1–4PM
Bring your furry friends for festive photo ops! -
Be the Light 5K
Sunday, Dec 14 | 6PM
A magical evening run beneath the Christmas lights.
Register Here
🎄 Joy To The Gorge
Holiday Events in Lake Lure & Chimney Rock Village
November 29 – January 5
Follow the glow into the Hickory Nut Gorge, where holiday spirit dances along the water, lights sparkle against the cliffs, and each business adds its own special touch. From cocoa on Main Street to Santa rappelling down Chimney Rock, this is a festive season like no other.
⭐ Ongoing Holiday Cheer
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Gorge Glow Up
Nov 28 – Jan 5
Cruise through Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village as local businesses light up the holidays. -
Shop Small Saturdays
Nov 29 – Dec 22
Cookies, cocoa, gift wrapping, and downtown cheer — discover something delightful in every storefront.
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Lured Market & Grill: Holiday Trivia – Wednesdays at 5:30PM | Open Mic – Thursdays at 6PM | Cornhole League- Sundays at 3P
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The Giving Tree Trail
Dec 5 – Jan 5 | Lake Lure Inn & Spa
Vote for your favorite tree, decorated by local businesses to support Hurricane Helene recovery grants. -
Miracle on Main Street
Nov 28 – Jan 4 | Chimney Rock Smokehouse
Holiday pop-up bar magic with themed nights:
• Christmas Bingo – Tuesdays
• Karaoke – Wednesdays
• Christmas Trivia – Thursdays
• Live Music – Weekends -
Sunday Brunch at the Lake Lure Inn & Spa
Dec 7 – 28 | 10AM–2PM
🎁 Special Events
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Black Friday Market at Fae Nectar
Nov 28 & 29 | 9AM–5PM
Discover art, crafts, fantasy-themed vendors, and unique holiday gifts. -
Santa Photos – Candy Cabin Lake Lure
Nov 29 | 1–4PM -
Lake Lure Christmas Tree Lighting
Dec 3 | Morse Park Gazebo | 5:30PM
Santa, s’mores, and seasonal songs by the Lake Lure Classical Academy Choir. -
Santa on the Chimney
Dec 6 & 13 | Chimney Rock State Park | 11AM–2PM
Watch Santa rappel down Chimney Rock — a mountain holiday tradition like no other. -
Breakfast with Elves
Dec 6 & 13 | Chimney Rock Smokehouse | 8–11AM -
Photos with the Grinch
Dec 13 & 20 | Candy Cabin Lake Lure | 2–4PM -
Winterfest at Grey Hawk Bar & Gardens
Dec 13 | Open during business hours
Live music, craft vendors, and festive spirits. -
National Ugly Sweater Day Competition
Dec 19 | Chimney Rock Smokehouse -
Dickens Christmas Dinner
Dec 19 & 20 | Lake Lure Inn & Spa | 5–8PM
