The holiday season is just getting started, and there’s no better place to celebrate than in the picturesque Western North Carolina mountain towns of Jackson County. While the region’s mountains certainly provide breathtaking scenic views, especially when coated in nature’s snowy blanket, there’s much more to enjoy here throughout the holiday season.

The county’s location is easy to reach for most in the Southeast – Jackson County is one of the closest snowy mountain escape destinations to many major cities. In fact, Atlanta, Chattanooga and Charlotte are less than three hours away, while Knoxville is two and Asheville is just one.

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and revel in the small-town charm of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, and Sylva, and take part in a variety of local holiday events, finish your gift shopping and enjoy the beautiful decorations that await at every turn.

Shop ‘til You Drop

Check off items on your shopping list at the local shops and boutiques scattered throughout the county. Not only will you escape the mall crowds, but you will find some beautiful items that are unlike anything you’d find at the big-box stores. Here, choose from original paintings, handmade pottery and sculptures at the many galleries and local pottery shops. Grab the latest fashions or home decor at one of many boutiques, or something vintage from a local antique shop. When planning your shopping outing, check out our shopping itinerary and shopping section to make the most of your day.

Have you ever seen an entire store dedicated to Christmas? We have! For those wanting a special Christmas ornament or some extra decorations, look no further than Nancy Tut’s Christmas Shop in Dillsboro. This long-time local staple is filled with nothing by Christmas ornaments and decorations. Nancy Tut’s offers everything one could possibly want for a festive holiday, from ornaments and snow globes to Christmas collectibles and plenty of holiday decor.

Join in the Holiday Fun

Of course, there’s no better way to celebrate the holidays than by making memories at one of our many holiday happenings. While there are many events taking place, don’t miss these must-attend festivities:

• Santa on the Green and the Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting
• Mountain Artisans Hard Candy Christmas
• Sylva Christmas Parade
• Lights and Luminaries
• 44th Annual Cashiers Christmas Parade

To fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, head to one of Jackson County’s local tree farms where you can choose and cut your own live Christmas tree!

Escape the Holiday Stress

A holiday getaway to Jackson County provides the perfect opportunity to truly relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Take in some fresh mountain air while enjoying one of the area’s many waterfall hikes or climb a local mountain peak for panoramic views.

Of course, one of the best stress relievers during the holidays is a day of pampering at one of Jackson County’s spas. At Fusions Spa & Wellness, book a day of treatments including massage therapy, facials and body wraps. Choose a body treatment at Canyon Spa at Lonesome Valley or try some hydrotherapy at Moonlight Spa & Retreat.

Another fun way to unwind and relax during the holidays is a trip through the Jackson County Ale Trail. Featuring four local breweries in Sylva, Dillsboro and Cashiers, the Ale Trail highlights some of the best hops, golden ales and IPAs available in the state.

When planning your holiday getaway to Jackson County, you’ll find a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and cottages to Airbnb and vacation rentals, many of which are outfitted with fireplaces where you can enjoy a cup of cocoa as you enjoy the firelight.

To help you put together your ideal holiday getaway, request your free Visitor Guide today.