Kick Off A New Christmas Tradition In Stokes County, NC

Stokes County, NC.

Winter roars in like a lion, but adventures, events and fun experiences are waiting to be had in Stokes County, North Carolina. A brisk winter hike along the trails of Hanging Rock State Park reveal views and natural beauty not normally experienced during summer months when trees and flora are in full bloom. Once the weather turns cold enough it’s not unusual to see icicles nearly two feet long, hanging from rock outcroppings along the Sauratown Mountain Scenic Byway. Twisting throughout the county, this unique byway is named for the unique Piedmont Plateau Range which connects both Stokes and Surry County, the byway also crosses the Dan River multiple times before making its way into Danbury. Fishermen enjoy casting a line in the northern Dan, near Jessup’s Mill in the Francisco community, with hopes of catching a few brown trout in the breed’s eastern most natural area of the state.

Step back in time to the 25th Annual Old Fashioned Christmas at Priddy’s General Store. This is truly a wonderful family tradition experiencing what Christmas was like at the rural corner General Store. Santa will visit from 11am-2pm and the store will be open for shopping for that unique heart felt gift. Every kid visiting Santa will be registered into a drawing for a Door Prize. Sample old fashioned candies and delicious hoop cheese while you sip on a cup of hot apple cider or a warm stew from the black kettle. Sit by the bonfire to warm up as you fellowship with one another and roast marshmallows.

Last month at River Rock Café in Danbury foodies visiting for Fall Foliage were introduced to the “Grandma’s Plate” sandwich, made up of all the wonderful filling foods from the Thanksgiving Meal table, Turkey, Dressing, Gravy and Cranberry Sauce on a Kaiser Roll. In December foodies can eat to their hearts content with a new “Christmas Ham Sandwich” featuring Grilled Ham, topped with Brown Sugar Glaze, Grilled Pineapple and Swiss Cheese. River Rock Café is open daily for lunch and conveniently located between the mountain and river in Stokes County.

Christmas Parades, holiday shopping, downtown tree lightings, and fun for all this month with Christmas in King on December 4th weekend. Christmas in Historic Danbury follows on December 5th with special events and tree lighting at the Historic Courthouse, additional events and last minute Christmas shopping at The Arts Place just across the street. The town of Walnut Cove celebrates Christmas with a parade on Saturday, December 11th, line the streets, check out vendors and shop the many main street businesses.

The perfect mountain getaway, closer than you think. www.hangingrock.com