As the crisp autumn air gives way to the enchanting chill of winter in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville and nearby Weaverville come alive with a tapestry of holiday magic and outdoor adventures perfectly suited for guests at The Reynolds Mansion. Whether you’re seeking festive lights, cultural celebrations, holiday shopping, or snowy escapades after enjoying our gourmet breakfast, November and December offer an array of experiences to make your stay unforgettable. Below we’ve organized all the fun by location: Biltmore Estate, NC Arboretum, In our Neighborhood, Weaverville area and beyond, and Downtown Asheville. From historic estates aglow with seasonal splendor to whimsical parades and artisanal markets, here’s a curated selection of must-do activities to inspire your itinerary (and hint, there are 2 new and unique items for 2025):
BILTMORE ESTATE
Christmas at Biltmore Estate: Experience the magic of the holidays at America’s largest home, decorated with over 100 Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands, and candlelight evenings that transport you back to the Gilded Age. Daytime visits include self-guided tours of the house, gardens, and Antler Hill Village, while evening candlelight tours add a romantic glow with live music and fireside ambiance—perfect for a festive outing. Runs November 1, 2025, to January 4, 2026, with candlelight tours from November 1 to January 3. Link: https://www.biltmore.com/things-to-do/events/christmas/
NC ARBORETUM
Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum: Stroll through an enchanting open-air light display featuring over one million twinkling lights, a 50-foot lighted tree, the illuminated Quilt Garden, whimsical light sculptures, and new for 2025, six giant troll sculptures by artist Thomas Dambo promoting sustainability. This family-friendly event offers hot cocoa, fire pits, and holiday cheer in a natural setting. Open nightly from November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026, 6–10 PM. Link: https://www.ncarboretum.org/winter-lights/
NEW & UNIQUE FOR 2025: WINTER LIGHTS HOLLY JOLLY TROLLEY – Premium Trolley Experience with Biltmore Park Town Square and Gray Line Trolley Tours! Skip the lines and ride with Winter Lights Trolley! Do your holiday shopping at Biltmore Park Town Square and then Ride the Winter Lights Trolley Friday November 28 and select Fridays and Saturdays in December. Trolleys depart from Biltmore Park Town Square every half hour, beginning at 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $50 per-person and available select dates only. https://www.ncarboretum.org/winter-lights/winter-lights-holly-jolly-trolley/
NEW & UNIQUE FOR 2025! Trolls: A Field Study at the North Carolina Arboretum: Discover 12 whimsical, larger-than-life troll sculptures crafted from reclaimed materials by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, hidden throughout the Arboretum’s trails for a fun, eco-conscious scavenger hunt. This U.S. debut exhibit pairs perfectly with Winter Lights in the evenings or daytime hikes. Runs November 15, 2025, to February 17, 2026. Link: https://www.ncarboretum.org/ (search for Trolls exhibit)
IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Just around the corner from The Reynolds Mansion…
National Gingerbread House Competition Display at The Omni Grove Park Inn: Marvel at dozens of elaborate, edible gingerbread creations from the annual competition, showcasing creative themes and intricate designs by bakers from across the country. This beloved tradition is a delightful indoor activity for all ages, with displays scattered throughout the historic resort. Viewable from November 18, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Link: https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/asheville-grove-park/things-to-do/national-gingerbread-competition
Please note: Guests not staying at the Resort are invited to view the display after 6PM on Sundays or anytime Monday through Thursday, based on parking availability and excluding holidays and the following dates: November 27, December 7, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31 and January 1.
15-20 MINUTES NORTH…WEAVERVILLE & BEYOND
Skiing at Hatley Pointe and Nearby Resorts: Hit the slopes for winter adventure at Hatley Pointe or other local ski areas like Sugar Mountain (opening November 28) and Beech Mountain (November 29), offering skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and lessons amid the Blue Ridge Mountains. Ideal for active guests seeking snowy thrills, with rentals and lodges available. Season typically starts late November through March, weather permitting. Links: Hatley Pointe (closest to The Reynolds Mansion – https://hatleypointe.com/) https://www.onthesnow.com/north-carolina/projected-openings
Music on the Knoll in Weaverville: Enjoy an intimate indoor concert series highlighting local and regional musicians in various genres. November’s performance features Simple Folk for a cozy folk music evening, perfect for a relaxing night out. Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 6 PM at the Community Center. Link: https://weavervillenc.org/town-council-government/annual-events/
Weaverville Holiday Parade: Join the community for a joyful parade featuring floats, bands, and holiday characters marching down Main Street, celebrating the season with local flair. A charming small-town event great for families. Scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11 AM. Link: https://weavervillenc.org/town-council-government/annual-events/
Weaverville Candlelight Stroll and Winter Wonder Walk: Wander Main Street aglow with luminaries and holiday lights, enjoying live music, storytelling, kids’ crafts, gifts, and a shuttle from Lake Louise Park. This festive evening includes visits to the Dry Ridge Museum and community center for a warm, nostalgic holiday vibe. Dates: November 29–30 and December 6, 7, 13, 14, 2025, starting at 6 PM. Link: https://visitweaverville.com/events/
DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE
LaZoom Hey Asheville Holiday Tour: Hop on a comedy bus tour blending Asheville’s history with holiday humor, including quirky stories, music, and a break at a local brewery. A fun, lighthearted way to explore the city. Runs November 28 to December 24, 2025. Link: https://www.lazoomtours.com/ (search for holiday tours)
Downtown Asheville Holiday Parade: Watch a whimsical parade with floats, performers, and community groups themed “Toyshop Whimsy,” kicking off the holiday season in vibrant downtown Asheville. Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 11 AM–2 PM. Link: https://www.ashevilledowntown.org/events/asheville-holiday-parade
Holiday Ice Rink at Asheville Yards: Skate under the stars at this outdoor ice rink in downtown, surrounded by holiday lights and festive atmosphere—great for couples or families. Open November 26, 2025, through January 19, 2026. Link: https://www.ashevilleyards.com/ice-rink/
The Big Crafty Art and Craft Fair: Shop unique handmade goods from over 100 local artisans, with live music and food trucks for a creative holiday shopping experience. December 6–7, 2025, at ExploreAsheville.com Arena. Link: https://www.thebigcrafty.com/
Warren Haynes Presents: The Christmas Jam: Rock out at this benefit concert featuring top musicians, a longtime Asheville tradition supporting local causes with holiday spirit. Saturday, December 13, 2025, at ExploreAsheville.com Arena at Harrah’s Cherokee Center. Link: Event Tickets link
North Asheville Tailgate Holiday Market: Browse a bazaar-style farmers’ market with local produce, crafts, and holiday treats in a year-round market that amps up for the season. November 29 through late December 20, 2025, Saturdays. Link: https://northashevilletailgatemarket.com/
West Asheville Tailgate Holiday Market: Pick up fresh goods and artisanal items at this pop-up market, ideal for stocking up on local flavors for holiday meals. Tuesdays from December 2 to 23, 2025, 3:30–5:30 PM. Link: https://www.westashevilletailgatemarket.com/
Exploring Asheville’s Art Galleries and Studios: Visit the River Arts District or downtown galleries for holiday exhibitions, open studios, and shopping for unique art pieces—many host special seasonal events. Year-round, but enhanced in November/December with holiday themes. Link: https://www.exploreasheville.com/things-to-do/arts/