Festive Events in Western North Carolina

When the first twinkling lights appear and the mountain air turns crisp, there’s no better place to celebrate the season than Jackson County, North Carolina. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the towns of Sylva, Dillsboro and Cashiers transform into postcard-perfect destinations filled with hometown parades, cozy markets and sparkling holiday cheer.

If you’re planning a getaway to Western North Carolina this winter, here are the can’t-miss festive events that will make your holidays merry and bright.

WNC Pottery Festival

Take in fall in Jackson County at the WNC Pottery Festival on Saturday, November 8, at Sylva’s Bridge Park, where more than 40 master potters from across the Southeast gather to showcase and sell their work. The event features live pottery throwing demonstrations, one-of-a-kind pieces and the opportunity to meet the artisans behind the craft. It’s the perfect place to pick up a handmade gift surrounded by the charm of this mountain town.

16^th Annual Handmade Holiday Sale

Support the WCU community at the 16th Annual Handmade Holiday Sale on Thursday, November 20, hosted at the Bardo Arts Center in Cullowhee. You will find pottery, jewelry, glass art, woodwork and other handmade gifts crafted by WCU students, staff and alumni. With everything made right here in the mountains, it’s the ultimate spot for unique, meaningful presents that tell a story.

Gobble on the Green

Before you indulge in turkey and pie, join locals and visitors for the Gobble on the Green Thanksgiving 5K in Cashiers. Taking place on Thanksgiving morning (Thursday, November 27), this fun, family-friendly run winds through the beautiful mountain community of Cashiers. It’s a heartwarming way to start Thanksgiving morning – fresh air, mountain views and a festive dose of gratitude.

Dillsboro’s Lights & Luminaries (December 5, 6, 12 and 13)

For two magical weekends each December, the historic village of Dillsboro glows under the soft light of more than 2,500 luminaries. Lights & Luminaries turns the town into a scene straight from a Christmas card – complete with candlelit streets, horse-drawn carriages and shops serving hot cocoa and cider.

Stroll through local galleries, enjoy live music and meet Santa as the scent of fresh pine fills the air. It’s one of the most beloved holiday traditions in Western North Carolina and an event that captures the heart of small-town Christmas.

Sylva’s Christmas Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade

Downtown Sylva shines bright during the holidays with two beloved annual events that bring the community together.

The Sylva Christmas Tree Lighting takes place on Friday, December 5, when the town gathers on the historic courthouse steps for the lighting of the grand tree that overlooks Main Street. The festive glow sets the tone for a joyful holiday weekend.

Then, on Sunday, December 7, the Sylva Christmas Parade fills Main Street with music, floats and holiday spirit. Local businesses, marching bands and community groups join in the fun, creating one of the most charming parades in Western North Carolina.

After the festivities, stop into a nearby restaurant on Main Street, like Lulu’s on Main or Meatball’s Pizzeria, to warm up and enjoy a taste of Jackson County’s local flavor.

Cashiers Festival of Trees

Cashiers Festival of Trees is a two-day, family-friendly event taking place on November 28th and 29th at Summit Charter School in Cashiers, N.C. The Festival features beautifully decorated trees, gift baskets, and wreaths, along with free children's crafts, raffle prizes, scavenger hunts, and a holiday shopping Gift Zone. Enjoy football viewings in the Gameday Lounge, and don’t miss the Pop-up Teddy Bear Workshop hosted by O.P. Taylor's and Design South Builders. New this year -- food trucks! 

The Jackson County Green Energy Park will be onsite, showcasing glassblowing and blacksmith demonstrations, with products available for sale. Tickets are $5 for adults, while entry is free for those aged 18 and younger. Proceeds from the festive event benefit the Summit Charter School Foundation and participating area nonprofits.

Christmas on the Green in Cashiers

From Thanksgiving Weekend until New Year’s Day, The Village Green in Cashiers is transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights displays and festive decorations. On November 28, enjoy the following activities to get into the festive spirit:

• Shopping local at the Mistletoe Market: Starting at 10 a.m., this market brings together local artisans offering handmade gifts, seasonal treasures and curated items perfect for holiday giving.
• Visit with Santa on the Green: Later in the day, children get to meet Santa Claus, with photo opportunities and a festive atmosphere right on the green.
• Tree lighting ceremony: At 5 p.m., the Christmas tree on the green is lit, followed by music, cocoa and that classic mountain-town holiday glow.

Celebrate the Season in the Mountains

With its charming small towns, friendly faces and twinkling mountain backdrops, Jackson County offers a holiday experience that feels timeless. Visit DiscoverJacksonNC.com to plan your holiday vacation to Jackson County, North Carolina, and see why the mountains of Western NC are one of the South’s most festive destinations.