10 Things to do Over the Holidays in Asheville, North Carolina

There is lots to do in Asheville over the holiday season, between the country’s largest gingerbread competition and the renowned celebration at the historic Biltmore Estate. Add in a small chance of an early winter storm and a multitude of winter recreational opportunities nearby, and it’s really no surprise that more & more people continue to flock to the WNC region to celebrate the season in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains.

I love Asheville all year-round, but the winter is super fun with the extra events and festive cheer in the air. My guide will focus on the most festive ways to get into the Christmas spirit in North Carolina’s most charming mountain city.

1. View the incredible winning gingerbread creations at the Omni Grove Park Inn

2025 will mark the 32nd anniversary (it was cancelled in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene) of the extravagant National Gingerbread Competition held at the upscale Omni Grove Park Inn. The annual holiday extravaganza continues to wow guests who travel far and wide to view the exquisite handcrafted pieces which are at last 75% edible and 100% creative.

You may have seen typical gingerbread displays before, however, few can compete with the shear creativity of the gingerbread pieces featured in this beloved annual tradition. My first year visiting, I thought I was watching one of those holiday baking championships on Food Network. I came back to this event every year I lived in the region – I definitely recommend placing it number one on your bucket list. You can view some of the incredible entries we saw during our visits over the years.

Hundreds of talented artists from across the country compete for the prestigious title. The judging process is fierce with both creativity and construction taken into consideration. The prestigious judging panel includes top pastry chefs from shows like Top Chef. I imagine they have their work cut off for them with all these fabulous creations.

This incredible Santa’s Workshop creation was the marvelous winning creation during our visit in 2018.

This event runs the entire month of December. Guests not staying at the resort can opt to view the various houses on select days. A steep $30 parking fee is in place, although the fee is quite worth it. If you enjoy other on-site activities like brunch in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Artisanal Buffet dining room and sipping a cocoa in front of the grand fireplace, the fee will offer more bang-for-your-buck. This gorgeous dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the serene Blue Ridge mountains. Hands down, it is the most scenic restaurant in all of Western North Carolina.

2025 Dates: Select dates from Nov. 18th-Jan. 4th. Fridays and Saturdays are reserved for hotel guests with dining reservations. Learn more on the Omni website.

2. Enjoy the Downtown Holiday Lights display

Although not quite as impressive as most of the big city displays I’ve seen, the city continues to add more color to the streets of downtown with each passing year. Staring in 2018, the city began showcasing several decorations from the well-regarded Winter Lights display at the North Carolina Arboretum. This is one of several great holiday lights displays around the region.

My recommended evening holiday itinerary:

• Enjoy a cocoa (I love the liquid truffle at French Broad) or coffee from a local roaster (High Five is amazing).
• Shop for unique Christmas gifts at the Mast General Store or Woolworth Art Walk (home to 100+ vendors).
• Enjoy the lovely lights.
• Cap the night off with a great dinner at any of the city’s well-regarded foodie hotspots (a list of my favorites).

My favorite local dining choices include:

• Tupelo Honey (creative Southern style entrees & a nice ambiance)
• Laughing Seed (tasty vegetarian food)
• Jerusalem Garden Cafe (delicious Mediterranean fare)
• Red Ginger (Best Chinese food in the area)

3. Shop, dine, and stroll around Biltmore Village

Biltmore Village, a quaint historic shopping and dining area located just a few miles outside of downtown, is a great place to spend a few hours. Unfortunately, some of the great businesses closed following damage from Hurricane Helene in 2024, but many are rebuilding thankfully.

Beautiful decor and lights adorn all the buildings. And thus, the ambiance is perfect for holiday shopping. Mark your calendars for the annual Dickens Christmas Celebration, featuring old-fashioned Victorian carolers, live entertainment, and a special craft market. This was one of the most interesting events I’ve attended in the city to date.

My favorites in the Village include:

• Andaaz (the best Indian food in town – I love their delicious buffet)
• Well Bred (an award-winning bakery serving great quiche & pastries)
• The Olde World Christmas Shop (I love the gorgeous Christmas ornaments and decor)
• Village Antiques (so many hidden treasures)

Explore the Biltmore Village directory for more details on who is open post-Hurricane as well as updates.

4. Visit the Grove Arcade’s Winter Wonderland festival

The Grove Arcade is an upscale local dining and shopping complex housed in a historical building built in 1929. Today, it is considered an architectural jewel with its’ stunning ornate sculptures. During the holidays, the space transforms into a Winter Wonderland with beautiful holiday decorations and ongoing festive events including visits from Santa Claus. I love strolling around enjoying the decor and treating myself to a few beignets with chocolate dipping sauce at a little hidden gem known as Bebbette’s.

While you are here, there are a number of local boutiques to check out. If you want to relax for a bit, head over to the Battery Park Book Exchange, where you can scout out some new literary treasures while enjoying a cup of coffee or glass of champagne. Note: multiple signs informing customers not to read books before purchasing is a bit over-the-top, however, it’s still a nice place to enjoy a drink in a cozy atmosphere.

Explore The Grove directory and stay updated on special events.

5. Treat yourself to a liquid truffle at French Broad Chocolate Lounge

It’s not rare to see an eager line standing outside the door to enjoy a delicious handcrafted specialty cocoa at French Broad. At times, I’ve been part of this crowd! Really, nothing is more comforting on a cold winter’s day that a relaxing mug of hot chocolate. Both traditional and European style drinking chocolate in various flavors, including salted caramel, dark chocolate, and vegan Buddha, are available. They also serve delicious desserts and creamy gelato.

I am a regular coffee drinker (and I like it black), but I do occasionally splurge for a cocoa over the winter months. For a real indulgence, cocoa lovers must try out one of the liquid truffles – it’s like a shot of pure chocolate – the most indulgent treat in town. This drink is so rich, but as a dark chocolate lover, I would definitely recommend. Grab a seat by the window, watch all the action downtown, and savor your chocolaty drink. Note: Be forewarned – service is a hit or miss.