Why fight the crowds at a huge New Year’s celebration in a jam-packed city when you can escape to the beautiful Western North Carolina mountains for a more low-key, enjoyable experience? In Jackson County, N.C., you’ll find wide open spaces where you can rejuvenate with the fresh mountain air and beautiful scenery everywhere you turn. Plus, you won’t encounter the high seasonal prices that commonly accompany a big-city New Year’s celebration and holiday weekend stay. Fresh air, gorgeous views, fewer crowds and affordable prices: What better way to ring in 2019? Raise a Glass to the New Year When celebrating the coming year in Jackson County, kick back, relax and enjoy your favorite drink at one of the area’s popular watering holes like The Paper Mill Lounge and Theatre or The Cut Cocktail Lounge. The Cut will be having a New Year’s Masquerade Ball on Dec. 31 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. and will feature music, a champagne toast at midnight, games and door prizes. Masks are highly encouraged, but don’t fret if you forget yours. Loaner masks will be available, as will a mask-making table. Every day from 6 to 8 p.m. between Christmas and New Year’s Day, enjoy a bubbles tasting at Papous Wine Shop and Bar. For a $5-10 tasting, choose from six wines and/or champagnes to see which one will become your new favorite. Discounted wine selections also will be offered, so feel free to take a few bottles home to keep the celebration going! If beer is more to your liking, check out the Jackson County Ale Trail. Featuring four local breweries in Sylva, Dillsboro and Cashiers, this is another fun way to sample the local libations and celebrate the holiday. Many of our breweries will have live music on New Year’s Eve!

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Get Outside and Play Don’t let those cold temps deter you from getting a head start on your resolutions for a healthier 2019. New Year’s Eve is a great time to get outside and take advantage of Jackson County’s natural offerings. Start by taking a hike on one of the area’s many trails; don’t worry, there are trails for all skill levels and distances. The more adventurous can hit the mountain biking trails or spend some time on the slopes of Sapphire Valley, where they can ski or snowboard to their hearts’ content. For a slower-paced outdoor outing, take in some of the region’s many scenic views to end 2018 and begin 2019. There are some fantastic spots around Jackson County that are ideal for catching the final sunset of the year! Whatever You Do, Don’t Miss It In a tech-connected world, it’s easy to let the holidays slip by without taking it in. During your New Year’s getaway, put down your phone and stay present in the moment, enjoying your surroundings and those loved ones who traveled here with you. Make time to really talk to one another, make new holiday memories and cherish your time together. Being in the moment is the perfect way to rejuvenate after a busy holiday season and reconnect with your family and friends. What better way could there be to start 2019? Request your free Visitor Guide today to begin planning.