The Blue Ridge Mountain town of Hendersonville invites you to delight in the spirit of the season with lights, Christmas carols, Main Street shopping and more. The Home for the Holidays event series includes more than 60 happenings from now through New Year’s Day.
“Everyone has worked hard to put together this lineup of events,” says Beth Carden, executive director of Henderson County Tourism. “No matter when you come to Hendersonville, there will be something for you to do that will put you in the holiday spirit.”
Youngsters enjoy this year’s new Peppermint Bear Scavenger Hunt. Black bear cubs are hidden throughout downtown businesses. When someone locates a bear in a store, the shopkeeper punches his or her card. Once participants collect at least 12 punches, they place their completed cards in a special mailbox at the Visitor Center for a chance to win one of several prizes.
Hendersonville’s renowned Flat Rock Playhouse closes out its season with “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas,” Nov. 29-Dec. 22. The original musical revue has become a favorite family tradition with classic carols, new surprises, beautiful sets and costumes, and talented dancers.
The holiday skating rink, another annual favorite, returns to the Visitor Center, Dec. 18-Jan. 1. The iceless rink makes skating possible in any weather and provides a smooth surface for all levels of skaters. The entire Visitor Center parking lot becomes a winter wonderland with games, a fire pit for roasting marshmallows and holiday-themed cutouts for photos.
Hendersonville’s Main Street — a welcoming destination for shopping, dining and family fun year-round — transforms into an idyllic Christmas village. Twinkling lights fill the trees and planters lining the sidewalk. Store owners get creative with greenery, ribbons and lights for the annual Merchant Decoration Contest. Shoppers cast votes for their favorite festive fronts.
Tractor-drawn hayrides take place Dec. 20-22, boarding at the Visitor Center and circling downtown for a magical tour of the lights.
With so much to do in Hendersonville, you’ll want to stay overnight. Whether you’re looking for a convenient hotel, romantic inn, homey vacation rental or pet-centric property, Hendersonville offers a variety of lodging options.
For a full schedule of Home for the Holidays events and a list of accommodations, go to www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org or call (800) 828-4244.
