Holiday Traditions in Charleston and Asheville
No matter how these two storied cities evolve, the holidays always bring people back to familiar traditions. Both Charleston and Asheville celebrate the season with festive events, historic charm, and timeless experiences.
From twinkling lights to local markets, visitors can discover new ways to enjoy classic holiday traditions. Below is a curated guide to some of the most memorable seasonal experiences in both destinations.
Holiday Events in Asheville
Pick a Tree at Boyd Mountain Christmas Tree Farm
First, no holiday trip to Asheville feels complete without visiting Boyd Mountain’s Christmas Tree Farm. Here, families can choose a fresh tree, cut it down, and bring it home for decorating.
The experience adds a personal touch to the holiday season and creates lasting memories.
Celebrate the Season at Biltmore Estate
Next, visit the Biltmore Estate, one of Asheville’s most iconic holiday destinations. Each year, the historic mansion transforms into a festive wonderland.
The estate welcomes visitors with decorated trees, garlands, and seasonal displays. Additionally, Santa arrives in style on a horse-drawn sleigh during the annual tree-raising celebration.
Ride the Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley
Another favorite tradition is the Gray Line Christmas Trolley Tour in Biltmore Village.
This festive trolley ride includes holiday caroling, storytelling, and cheerful decorations. Because of its lively atmosphere, it remains a popular outing for families visiting Asheville during the holidays.
Decorate a Tree at The Restoration Asheville
Meanwhile, guests staying at The Restoration Asheville can create their own holiday tradition.
Each suite features a real Christmas tree ready for decorating. Guests also receive hot cocoa, chocolate chips, and a special Restoration ornament to take home.
As a result, visitors can celebrate the holidays in a cozy and personal way.
Experience The Nutcracker Live
For a classic holiday performance, attend The Nutcracker: Magic of Christmas Ballet at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center.
This beloved production combines ballet, acrobatics, elaborate costumes, and life-like puppets. The show has delighted audiences for more than a century.
Find Handmade Ornaments in the River Arts District
After visiting Boyd Mountain’s tree farm, explore Asheville’s River Arts District.
At the North Carolina Glass Center, guests can watch glassblowers craft beautiful ornaments. These handcrafted pieces make perfect decorations for your holiday tree.
Shop at the Historic Grove Arcade
Next, stroll through Grove Arcade, Asheville’s original shopping destination.
The historic building now houses restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. Visitors can find unique gifts, holiday décor, and seasonal treats all in one place.
Walk Through the Arboretum’s Winter Lights
Finally, experience the magic of the North Carolina Arboretum’s Winter Lights display.
This illuminated walk features more than one million lights across the gardens. Guests can also enjoy live music, hot cocoa, and festive seasonal activities.
Holiday Events in Charleston
Drive Through the Festival of Lights
Charleston’s James Island Festival of Lights is a beloved seasonal tradition.
Visitors drive through a three-mile display featuring more than two million lights. Meanwhile, the park also offers holiday attractions such as a train ride, walking trails, and a Victorian carousel.
Meet Santa at The Restoration Charleston
Additionally, guests at The Restoration Charleston can meet Santa during select December dates.
Families gather in The Library for photos, holiday stories, and memorable moments with Old Saint Nick.
Shop the Marion Square Holiday Market
Next, explore the Marion Square Holiday Market, one of Charleston’s most anticipated seasonal events.
Visitors browse handmade gifts, artisan goods, and festive decorations. Meanwhile, live music, caroling, and choir performances fill the square with holiday cheer.
Tour Drayton Hall by Candlelight
For a historic holiday experience, visit Drayton Hall for its candlelight tours.
This beautifully preserved 18th-century estate welcomes guests for a special evening tour during the holiday season. Visitors can learn about colonial life while exploring the historic property.
Celebrate at Middleton Place
Meanwhile, Middleton Place hosts its famous Grand Illumination and Dinner experience.
The evening features live demonstrations of historic Revolutionary War events. Guests also enjoy festive dining and seasonal entertainment.
Southern Holiday Traditions
Poinsettias in Charleston
Charleston played an important role in introducing the poinsettia to the United States.
South Carolina native Joel Robert Poinsett discovered the flower while traveling in Mexico. He later brought the plant to Charleston, where it became a holiday favorite.
How to Celebrate
Today, visitors can browse one of the region’s largest poinsettia selections at Boone Hall Farm’s Christmas Tree Festival.
The three-day event also features live music, carnival rides, holiday crafts, and marshmallow roasting.
Citrus for the Holidays
Another Charleston holiday tradition includes decorating with citrus fruits.
In the past, oranges and other citrus fruits symbolized luxury during winter. Today, they remain a festive seasonal ingredient.
How to Celebrate
Many Charleston restaurants serve Ambrosia salad during the holidays. This traditional dish combines oranges, pineapple, and coconut for a bright seasonal treat.
The Tradition of Oyster Roasts
Finally, a Southern holiday gathering often includes fresh oysters.
According to tradition, oysters taste best during months that include the letter “R.” As a result, winter becomes the perfect season for oyster feasts.
How to Celebrate
Visitors can experience this tradition at Drayton Hall’s Annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast.
This popular event features all-you-can-eat oysters and festive Lowcountry hospitality. Because tickets sell out quickly each year, early reservations are recommended.
