If you’re looking for a vacation destination with something for everyone, check out Asheville. This gorgeous North Carolina town delivers everything from mountain views to city attractions. You’ll find something to do in every season and can rest assured that you’ll meet plenty of friendly locals along the way.
Visiting Asheville, North Carolina, is a great way to celebrate the holiday season. You can find a little bit of everything here, whether you want to take a romantic drive through the mountains or stroll down the streets visiting local restaurants and boutiques.
Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy the holidays is by checking out the gorgeous winter lights in Asheville!
Our Asheville vacation rentals are just minutes away from some of the most breathtaking light displays in the city, giving you a beautiful view everywhere you turn. In the midst of all the other Asheville holiday events you’ll be attending, be sure to check out a few of these light displays as well!
Winter Lights at the Arboretum
The North Carolina Arboretum is one of the attractions that the city of Asheville is proudest of. In the winter, this destination truly comes alive with Winter Lights, which will be taking place from November 18 to December 31, 2022.
As you make your way through the Arboretum, you’ll be passing more than one million lights in beautiful displays with enchanting details. Don’t miss attractions like the Quilt Garden and the 50-foot-tall Christmas tree! In addition to the light show itself, you’ll also get to experience nightly live performances, trips on the Rocky Cove Railroad, and storytime at Woodland Cove (perfect for the kids). Don’t forget to pick up a s’mores kit and visit the gift shop to purchase a souvenir.
While service animals are always welcome at the Arboretum, pets are not permitted. Guests can purchase tickets in advance on the Arboretum’s website. Budget-conscious travelers will be happy to know that tickets are purchased per vehicle, not per person. The event will be held rain or shine!
The Biltmore House & Village
Visiting the beautiful Biltmore Estate is easily one of the most popular things to do in Asheville in winter, and for good reason. While the property is breathtaking any time of year, the estate truly comes to life in the winter. You’ll get to see all kinds of picturesque decorations and lights that will impress guests of all ages.
From November 4, 2022, to January 7, 2023, Biltmore will be offering Candlelight Christmas Evenings. This incredible event allows you to see thousands of ornaments and millions of lights throughout the estate, as well as the beautiful Antler Hill Village. Bring the family or plan a romantic night with your partner!
You can also come out during the day to experience the Christmas Daytime Celebration. This event, which runs from November 4, 2022, to January 8, 2023, is a truly immersive experience displaying all the best parts of the Biltmore. See unique wreaths, stunning garlands, and countless ornaments around the property.
As we mentioned, Antler Hill Village will also be open for visitors. You’ll find shops, restaurants, exhibits, and a one-of-a-kind farmyard to explore! Best of all, admission to Antler Hill Village is included with the price of admission for the two main Christmas events happening at Biltmore.
Omni Grove Park Inn
The Omni Grove Park Inn has long been one of the most popular places to see Asheville Christmas lights, but there’s so much more in store than just the light displays! As you explore the property, you’ll have the chance to experience mouthwatering holiday dining, stunning gingerbread sculptures, and towering trees you simply have to see to believe.
This Inn is home to the Annual National Gingerbread House Competition, where you can see dozens of impressive gingerbread creations from the country’s most talented bakers and decorators. Be sure to spend time strolling through the lobby and around the rest of the property as well, where you’ll find more than 80 illuminated trees and countless other holiday decorations.
The Omni Grove Park Inn is located at 290 Macon Avenue, just a short drive away from our Asheville rentals.
Plan Your Visit
Contact the team at Pete Key to start planning your Asheville vacation! We look forward to hosting you this holiday season.
Biltmore Park Town Square
At Biltmore Park Town Square, there are several different ways to enjoy the sights. It all kicks off on December 3, 2022, with the Holiday Tree Lighting! This annual event invites kids and adults alike to enjoy crafts, photo booths, hot cocoa, a magician, and even Santa himself! This event will run from 2:30 to 6 p.m., ending with the iconic tree lighting.
Once you’re done with the tree lighting (or if you’re visiting later in the season), you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to see the lights. The shops and restaurants throughout Biltmore Park offer something breathtaking around every turn, so you know you’re in for a one-of-a-kind experience. Take a stroll around the town or catch a movie at the local theater!
Lake Julian Festival of Lights
If you’re looking for a particularly romantic way to enjoy the Asheville winter lights, don’t miss a trip to the Lake Julian Festival of Lights! This event will be running from December 1 to 23, 2022. If you plan to visit the Biltmore, you’ll already be just a short drive from Lake Julian so you can knock out both attractions in one day!
From 6 to 9 p.m. each night, guests can drive through a stunning light display with more than 50 different exhibits to admire. Take your time and drive through the attraction at your own pace; on slower nights, it’s not uncommon to be allowed to drive through a second time for no extra charge! Admission to this event is more than reasonable, and a portion of the proceeds goes toward the Buncombe County Special Olympics. You can have an incredible time seeing the lights and know that your money is going toward a great cause this holiday season.
Where to Stay
These are just a few of the most exciting winter activities happening in Asheville this season, but the city has so much more in store for you! To experience Asheville to the fullest, book a stay in a rental from Pete Key. Our rental properties are designed to accommodate groups of all sizes and all budgets, so you can have a fantastic trip no matter what.
Each of our Asheville rentals comes equipped with convenient amenities like high-speed WiFi, convenient parking, fully stocked kitchens, flat-screen TVs, and more. You can cozy up by the fireplace or enjoy a movie night with your family. Head into town to explore the sights or relax in your rental for some peace and quiet. No matter what your dream holiday trip looks like, the team at Pete Key can help make it a reality!
Pete Key is proud to be your premier destination for rentals near Asheville, North Carolina. Ready to start planning your next trip to the city? Contact our team today to get started!
