Asheville Christmas – Where to Go & What to Do for an Unforgettable 2025 Holiday Season
Glowing with charm and nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville NC Christmas turns up the holiday magic every year. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa under the stars or wandering light-filled gardens, Asheville Christmas 2025 is set to impress.
The city blends old-world elegance with cozy Appalachian vibes, creating an unforgettable seasonal experience for every kind of traveler. Expect festive and imaginative holiday displays by local businesses that transform storefronts into whimsical winter art installations.
With a packed calendar of markets, shows, and twinkling attractions, now’s the time to plan your holiday adventure. Don’t miss out—this is one Christmas countdown you’ll actually want to keep on reading!
What Are the Top Holiday Events Happening in Asheville NC Christmas 2025?
From mansion tours to music legends, Asheville NC Christmas delivers holiday events that go beyond your average twinkle lights. Christmas at Biltmore dazzles with Candlelight Christmas Evenings, massive trees, and historic elegance throughout the season.
The 2025 Asheville Holiday Jamboree fills Downtown Asheville with performances, crafts, and community cheer for all ages. In addition, Winter Lights transforms the North Carolina Arboretum into a glowing forest filled with color, whimsy, and seasonal magic. Meanwhile, Warren Haynes Presents: Christmas Jam brings big-name performances back to Asheville in support of local causes and post-storm recovery. Keep reading to discover the full holiday lineup and insider tips for planning the perfect trip!
Experience Christmas at Biltmore Like Never Before
Visitors can explore Christmas at Biltmore, set between November 1, 2025 and January 4, 2026, for a full-season holiday immersion. As part of Asheville NC at Christmas, the estate transforms with wreath-covered fireplaces, 100+ Christmas trees, and glittering Candlelight Christmas Evenings.
Over at Antler Hill Village, the festive magic continues with illuminated pathways, wine tastings, and live music. Exact time slots and evening schedules have not been announced yet. Stay tuned for 2025 details!
Join the Celebration at the 2025 Asheville Holiday Jamboree
The 2025 Asheville Holiday Jamboree returns on Saturday, November 22, filling Downtown Asheville with festive energy from 11 AM to 5 PM. While the Asheville Christmas Parade once drew massive crowds, it will not take place this year due to ongoing changes following Hurricane Helene.
Starting with Saturday November 23, 2024, the parade was officially replaced by the Asheville Holiday Jamboree, a more interactive, community-centered event. The celebration continues in 2025 with local performers, a bustling holiday market, food trucks, and free photos with Santa at Pack Square Park.
Designed to keep the spirit of Christmas in Asheville NC alive, the event brings together families, artists, and small businesses in a festive downtown setting. Performance lineups and vendor lists haven’t been confirmed. Check back for updates on this year’s Asheville Christmas events!
Feel the Music at Warren Haynes Presents: Christmas Jam
Though postponed in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene Asheville Warren Haynes Presents: Christmas Jam is officially returning for its 33rd edition in 2025. This legendary benefit concert has long supported Asheville charities in the wake of Hurricane Helene, drawing artists from across the rock and jam-band universe.
While past events have sold out venues like Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville, 2025’s date and location are still under wraps. Organizers haven’t announced final plans yet, so keep an eye out for updates on this iconic Asheville holiday tradition!
Walk Through the Magic of Winter Lights
Returning in November 2025, Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum transforms botanical beauty into a forest of glowing wonder. As one of the most dazzling Asheville Christmas lights experiences, the event takes place at 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC.
This immersive winter light trail is pet-free but packed with festive charm, hot cocoa stands, and photo ops galore. The exact start date and operating hours haven’t been released yet. Stay tuned for official 2025 announcements!
What Are the Best Things to Do During Asheville Christmas in 2025?
Holiday magic comes alive during Asheville Christmas, with experiences that go way beyond twinkle lights and peppermint lattes. The Asheville Holiday Markets are perfect for snagging handcrafted gifts, local treats, and festive greenery in cozy outdoor settings.
Or you can marvel at edible masterpieces during the 33rd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn. For those craving holiday mischief, the Asheville Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl 2025 serves up festive drinks and unforgettable sweater chaos.
The season also shines on stage with dazzling Asheville Christmas Shows, including musical classics and creative takes on holiday tales. Don’t stop here—read on to unwrap even more merry things to do this season!
Shop Local at Asheville Holiday Markets
You can browse the Asheville Holiday Markets at two beloved locations: UNCA Lot P28 and 718 Haywood Road. The North Asheville Tailgate Market Holiday Bazaar runs Saturdays from 10 AM to 1 PM, Nov. 29 to Dec. 20, 2025, and features handmade gifts, crafts, and seasonal produce.
The West Asheville Tailgate Holiday Market pops up Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5:30 PM, beginning December 2 through December 23, 2025. Market vendor lineups and special programming for 2025 haven’t been announced yet. Stay tuned for what’s fresh!
Join the 33rd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition
Held every November at the Omni Grove Park Inn, the 33rd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition remains a beloved holiday tradition. Artists from across the country transform sugar, spice, and frosting into jaw-dropping architectural masterpieces.
Visitors can explore these edible works of art throughout the resort, including in public viewing areas and lobbies. Official 2025 viewing dates and entry details have not been released yet—stay tuned for updates!
Show Off Your Style at the Asheville Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl 2025
Taking place on Saturday, December 20, 2025, the Asheville Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl 2025 is your license to dress tacky and party boldly. Experience the holidays through themed drinks, food specials, and dance-floor chaos.
Check-in begins at 4 PM, with bars throughout downtown Asheville participating in the festive madness. Venue lists and themed drink specials haven’t been released yet—stay tuned for all the festive crawl details!
Catch the Magic of Asheville Christmas Shows
This year’s Asheville Christmas shows lineup includes A Christmas Carol: A Play with Music, running December 11 to 21, 2025 at North Carolina Stage Company. Another crowd favorite, NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, takes the stage at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.
Both shows feature creative adaptations of classic holiday tales, perfect for families or a festive night out. Don’t miss your chance to experience Asheville’s holiday magic live on stage!
Ride Through Cheer on the Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour
The Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour departs from the Asheville Visitor Center at 36 Montford Avenue on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. This 75-minute ride takes guests past festive holiday decorations in Downtown Asheville and the Montford and Grove Park neighborhoods.
With onboard caroling, storytelling, and heated trolleys, it’s a favorite holiday tradition for locals and visitors. Climb aboard and make merry memories you’ll never forget!
What Are The Asheville NC Christmas FAQs?
Will I need tickets in advance for Christmas at Biltmore if it’s part of my trip?
Christmas at Biltmore is one of the most popular attractions during Asheville NC Christmas, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Guests are strongly encouraged to book timed entry tickets in advance, especially for Candlelight Christmas Evenings.
What can I expect at the 2025 Asheville Holiday Jamboree during my holiday visit?
The 2025 Asheville Holiday Jamboree is a key part of the Asheville NC Christmas season, replacing the traditional parade format. Held at Pack Square Park, it features live performances, a festive market, and photos with Santa.
Can I still attend Warren Haynes Presents: Christmas Jam if I’m visiting for Christmas?
Warren Haynes Presents: Christmas Jam is a major music benefit event during Asheville NC Christmas, though it’s not held every year. In 2025, it’s returning to Asheville following a pause due to Hurricane Helene.
Is Winter Lights worth adding to my Asheville NC Christmas itinerary?
Winter Lights is a must-see feature of Asheville NC Christmas, offering an immersive nighttime display at the North Carolina Arboretum. Guests walk through glowing forest trails filled with creative light sculptures, festive music, and hot cocoa stations.
What are the top seasonal highlights I can explore during my Asheville Christmas trip?
Asheville Christmas is filled with festive experiences that combine mountain charm, holiday spirit, and creative local traditions. Popular highlights include the Gingerbread House Competition, live holiday shows, bar crawls in ugly sweaters, and scenic trolley tours with caroling.
Where can I do my holiday shopping during my trip to the Asheville Holiday Markets?
The Asheville Holiday Markets include the North Asheville Tailgate Market Holiday Bazaar and the West Asheville Tailgate Holiday Market. These markets feature handmade wreaths, locally grown produce, baked goods, and artisan gifts from beloved neighborhood vendors.
Can I attend the 33rd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition during my vacation?
The 33rd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition is a signature event during Asheville Christmas, hosted at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Visitors can view stunning edible creations throughout the resort’s decorated public spaces.
Should I wear an actual ugly sweater to the Asheville Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl 2025 on my trip?
The Asheville Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl 2025 is one of the most festive parts of the Asheville Christmas nightlife scene. Guests are encouraged to wear their tackiest, most hilarious sweaters for bar specials, music, and holiday chaos.
What kind of shows can I expect to see during my Asheville Christmas trip?
Asheville Christmas Shows include holiday classics with a twist, featuring musical versions of traditional stories and festive ballet performances. Notable productions include A Christmas Carol: A Play with Music and the NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet.
Is the Holly Jolly Christmas trolley tour a good fit for my family?
The Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour is a family-friendly favorite during Asheville Christmas, known for storytelling and caroling. The 75-minute tour winds through downtown and historic neighborhoods with onboard music and heated comfort.
Where can I find the best deals for my Christmas Asheville hotel packages?
Christmas Asheville hotel packages are available through Tripster, offering bundled hotel stays with major Asheville attractions. Guests can save up to 14% on options like Biltmore Estate hotel packages or a Helicopter tour + hotel combo.
How can I save money when booking my Christmas Asheville vacation packages?
Christmas Asheville vacation packages on Tripster let travelers bundle two or more attractions for up to 19% in savings. With instant confirmation and fewer booking steps, it’s a hassle-free way to plan your holiday getaway.
Are There Any Christmas Asheville Hotel Packages?
No need to stress over finding Christmas Asheville hotel packages when Tripster does the holiday deal-hunting for you. Travelers can save up to 14% by bundling Asheville attractions and hotels into one simple, merry package.
Score a dreamy escape with Biltmore Estate hotel packages, including estate admission and savings of up to 14%. Want something a little more adventurous? Book an Asheville Helicopter tour + hotel package and enjoy aerial views with discounts up to 6%.
With Tripster, you can skip the search spiral and go straight to booking joyfully!
What Christmas Asheville Vacation Packages Are Available?
Planning Christmas Asheville vacation packages just got easier thanks to Tripster’s exclusive discounts when bundling two attractions together. With savings up to 19%, you can see more, do more, and spend less this holiday season.
It’s the perfect way to stretch your budget without trimming the fun. Tripster makes booking easy, festive, and smart—just the way holiday planning should be!
White Water Rafting + Biltmore Estate
Save up to 19% on the White Water Rafting + Biltmore Estate combo and add thrills to your elegance. Paddle by day and sip wine by sunset at Asheville’s most iconic estate.
Landscapes & Waterfalls + Autumn Color in the Blue Ridge Photography
Save up to 10% on the Landscapes & Waterfalls + Autumn Color in the Blue Ridge Photography package for serious scenic overload. Capture golden hour magic and hidden waterfalls in one unforgettable photo adventure.
Dollywood + Biltmore Combo Tickets
Save up to 9% on Dollywood + Biltmore Combo Tickets for a mix of rollercoasters and refined Southern charm. It’s the perfect blend of theme park fun and historic holiday splendor.
Why Travelers Love Booking with Tripster:
💥 Instant ticket confirmation
🚫 No promo code needed
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📱 Mobile-friendly experience
🛎️ Bundle hotels + attractions
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So, What’s My Next Move?
Ho ho ho! If you’ve been dreaming of a storybook-style Asheville NC Christmas, now’s the time to make it reality. An unforgettable Asheville Christmas starts with planning early and picking your favorite festive events from the list above.
Tripster makes it easy to secure vacation packages, attraction tickets, and hotels all in one place. You can also bundle lodging deals with local experiences to maximize your holiday fun without maxing out your budget.
Don’t wait until the best dates and tickets disappear—this town books up fast during the holidays. Grab your calendar, light a cinnamon candle, and start planning your most festive Christmas yet!
