Hendersonville Holiday Events Light Up the Season
There’s nothing quite like the holidays in Hendersonville, NC. Whether you’re a lifelong local or planning to relocate to Hendersonville, the Christmas season in our charming mountain town is where small-town magic meets festive fun. Main Street and beyond come alive with shimmering lights, nostalgic carriage rides, mouthwatering treats, and merry moments designed for all ages.
Festivities for Every Kind of Holiday Spirit
The City of Hendersonville and local businesses come together each year to transform downtown into a winter wonderland filled with events that warm the heart and create lasting traditions. From Thanksgiving through Christmas, there’s something new to discover almost every week. Here’s what makes celebrating the season in Hendersonville unforgettable:
- Thanksgiving Farmers Market – Kick things off on November 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Maple Street in the charming 7th Avenue District. Find handcrafted local gifts, seasonal baked goods, and holiday ingredients that bring farm-to-table freshness to your feast.
- Turkey Trot 5K – Burn off some calories (and stress) before the big meal during the Turkey Trot on November 27. It’s a festive way to get moving, hosted by the Hope Coalition.
- Holiday Tree Lighting – A can’t-miss classic on the evening of November 28. Gather at 5 p.m. at the Historic Henderson County Courthouse, enjoy carols and cocoa, and watch Santa light up downtown at 6 p.m. followed by free carriage rides under twinkling lights.
Shop Local and Experience the Magic
On November 29, Small Business Saturday invites everyone to explore the distinctively local shops lining Historic Downtown. It’s not just shopping — it’s supporting your neighbors and enjoying the energetic buzz of a community coming together. There’s no better time to find one-of-a-kind gifts and discover charming boutiques that you’ll want to visit year-round.
And if you’re wondering what’s it like living in Hendersonville during the holidays — think classic Hallmark vibes with a Blue Ridge twist. The sense of community and creativity here shines brightest this time of year.
Old-Fashioned Charm Awaits
Mark your calendar for December 5 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., when the beloved Olde Fashioned Christmas transforms Main Street into a magical December destination. Families and friends are invited to enjoy an open house among shops, restaurants, entertainers, and yes — more carriage rides! It’s a wonderful evening of stepping back in time while soaking in the cheer of modern community spirit.
Meanwhile, Santa on the Square brings crafts, games, hot cocoa, and holiday selfies with Saint Nick himself to the Historic Courthouse plaza, courtesy of Henderson County Parks and Recreation.
Sweet Treats & Sparkling Parades
Continue the sweetness on December 6 with a Holiday Cookie Stroll during the Farmers Market on Maple Street, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the 7th Avenue District. Pick up your Cookie Stroll passport, taste delicious holiday cookies, and gather stamps at each stop for the chance to win festive prizes.
That evening at 6 p.m., the Hendersonville Christmas Parade steps off with its glowing “Light up the Night” theme. The twinkling floats traveling down Main Street dazzle young and old — a true gem among the things to do in Hendersonville during the holiday season.
Trains, Llamas, and Christmas Cheer
On December 20, head back to the Historic Courthouse for a merry blend of quirky and classic. Holiday Train Rides by Mountain Fresh Orchards delight the little ones, while Ellaberry Llama Farm provides photo ops with their festive llamas. Browse fresh baked and canned goodies, let the kids get fairy hair and face paint, and enjoy a holiday craft station. It’s small-town joy at its finest.
Celebrate the Holidays, Hendersonville Style
These hallmark events tell the story of our town: close-knit, spirited, welcoming. For those looking to move to Hendersonville or just visit for the season, there’s nothing quite like being part of the festivities. The decorations, the smiles, the love shared across generations — it’s everything a mountain holiday should be and more.
For dates, times, and full details, check out Downtown Hendersonville’s official website.
If you’re considering moving to Hendersonville to enjoy moments like these year-round, now is a perfect time to explore our neighborhoods and see why people fall in love with this place — especially when it’s wrapped in twinkling lights and Christmas cheer.