Asheville, NC, is one of the most magical places to spend the holidays. With mountain views, twinkling lights, festive markets, and a warm community spirit, Christmas in Asheville delivers the perfect blend of tradition and winter charm. As the city continues its recovery from Hurricane Helene, the holiday season feels more meaningful than ever. Visitors will find a resilient, joyful city ready to celebrate.
At the center of downtown is The Restoration Asheville, a boutique property offering a blend of comfort, luxury, and local hospitality. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway in Asheville, exploring holiday markets, or visiting the iconic Biltmore Christmas celebration, The Restoration is the perfect home base.
Asheville During Christmas: Holiday Spirit & Mountain Resilience
Few destinations do the holidays like Asheville. The city glows with festive décor, holiday concerts, and outdoor winter activities that make this season unforgettable. Visitors staying at The Restoration Asheville hotel enjoy walkability, curated holiday experiences, and easy access to the best Asheville winter attractions.
Asheville’s Holiday Parade: The Jamboree
The city’s holiday season officially begins with the Asheville Holiday Parade—also known as the Holiday Jamboree—held every November. This beloved event features marching bands, festive floats, and Santa’s highly anticipated arrival. It’s one of the most iconic holiday events in Asheville.
Guests at The Restoration are just steps from the parade route, making it easy to enjoy the festivities and then warm up with a seasonal cocktail at The Observatory, the hotel’s rooftop bar in downtown Asheville with mountain views.
Where to See Christmas Lights in Asheville
Holiday lights are a big part of the Asheville Christmas experience. These two displays are must-see attractions for visitors in December.
Biltmore Estate Christmas
The Biltmore Estate Christmas tour is one of the most well-known Christmas lights in Asheville experiences. Guests can enjoy:
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Candlelight tours
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Dozens of decorated trees
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Live holiday music
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Thousands of twinkling lights
It’s a truly magical evening. Afterward, retreat to The Restoration to unwind in one of the hotel’s luxury suites in Asheville.
Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum
Another top holiday lights in Asheville attraction is Winter Lights at the Arboretum, a nature-inspired light experience set among the Blue Ridge Mountains. This walk-through event includes illuminated gardens, whimsical installations, and interactive displays—perfect for family Christmas activities in Asheville.
Celebrate the Holidays at The Restoration Asheville
The Restoration transforms into a warm, festive retreat filled with holiday décor, seasonal drinks, and curated touches that embody the magic of Christmas in Asheville. Guests can enjoy unique experiences, special packages, and easy access to downtown’s best winter attractions.
Christmas Eve at The Restoration
Christmas Eve at The Restoration blends comfort and charm. Guests will find:
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A cozy lobby
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Seasonal cocktails at The Observatory
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Hot cocoa and holiday coffees at The Rise
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In-room amenities designed to make your stay feel like home
It’s the perfect place to unwind before a magical Christmas Day in Asheville.
Christmas Day in Asheville: Relax & Explore
Christmas Day at The Restoration is relaxed, warm, and effortlessly festive. Guests can:
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Enjoy a true Asheville Beer Experience
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Walk to downtown restaurants offering special Christmas menus
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Explore winter hiking trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway
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Discover nearby shops and cafés open for the holiday
Whether you’re planning a romantic Asheville winter getaway or traveling with family, the hotel provides everything needed for a peaceful Christmas Day.
Why The Restoration Is the Best Hotel in Asheville for the Holidays
Looking for the best hotel in Asheville for Christmas? Here’s why The Restoration stands out:
Prime Downtown Location
Steps from the Asheville Christmas Parade, holiday markets, local breweries, and festive events.
Curated Holiday Packages
Including gingerbread kits, seasonal treats, and festive amenities that make every stay feel special. Contact our guest services curator for more information.
Community Connection
Travelers staying at The Restoration support local Asheville businesses and contribute to ongoing recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene.
More Christmas in Asheville: Things to Do
Holiday Shows & Performances
Asheville’s performing arts scene comes alive in December. Visitors can enjoy:
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“The Nutcracker” at the Wortham Center
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Holiday concerts at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium
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Seasonal performances across downtown
These make perfect additions to any Asheville Christmas itinerary.
Winter Hikes Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway in winter offers snow-dusted forests, serene mountain overlooks, and peaceful trails that remain open year-round. It’s a must for travelers seeking winter outdoor activities in Asheville.
Asheville Breweries & Holiday Brews
Asheville’s craft breweries release special seasonal brews each winter—think spiced ales, peppermint stouts, and gingerbread porters. The Restoration can help arrange brewery tours that highlight the city’s best holiday craft beers.
Support Asheville This Holiday Season
This year’s holiday season carries special significance as Asheville continues rebuilding after Hurricane Helene. Supporting local makers, restaurants, and independent shops helps strengthen the community. By choosing to stay at The Restoration, guests directly support local recovery efforts.
Experience Christmas in Asheville at The Restoration
From twinkling lights to festive concerts, cozy suites, and curated holiday packages, the city offers endless ways to celebrate the season. The Restoration Asheville puts every highlight of Christmas in Asheville right at your doorstep—making it one of the best hotels for holiday travelers.
Book your stay and experience the magic of Asheville this Christmas.
