Spending winter in Highlands feels like stepping into a holiday movie. Picture a small town with Christmas lights, decorated storefronts, cozy restaurants, welcoming hotels, and friendly faces. The holiday season in Highlands is a great time to come together and enjoy activities for the whole family. Annual events like Light Up the Park and the Highlands Christmas Parade are perfect for celebrating the season and making memories in our mountain town. Here’s what you can look forward to this holiday season!
Holiday Market
November 4 – December 27
The Bascom’s Holiday Market opens its doors from November 4 through December 27, offering a festive experience for all ages. The space transforms into a holiday wonderland filled with unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for everyone on the holiday list, from children to adults.
Beyond shopping, the Holiday Market invites visitors to enjoy a variety of seasonal activities. From holiday-themed workshops and a Santa Letter Writing Station to Kids Make-and-Take Ornaments and creative fun in the SmART Space, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the holiday photo selfie station, a perfect way to capture memories of the season! Click here to Learn More.
Small Business Saturday Holiday Stroll
Saturday, November 29
11:30am-4pm
Step into the spirit of the holidays during the Small Business Saturday Holiday Stroll on November 29. This family-friendly day invites visitors to shop local, enjoy live music, glide on the ice-skating rink, and savor the festive charm that makes Holidays in Highlands shine. The streets come alive with The City Carolers, a professional a cappella quartet whose rich harmonies and Dickens-inspired costumes bring timeless Christmas cheer to Main Street. Click Here to Learn More.
Light Up the Park
Saturday, November 29
6-8pm
The Saturday after Thanksgiving, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park becomes the center of holiday cheer as the community gathers for an evening that captures the spirit of the season. The park starts out dark, filled with the warm hum of excitement as families sip hot chocolate and share candy canes, waiting for the festivities to begin.
The night features timeless traditions—reading the Christmas story, singing carols, and, most magical of all, Santa’s arrival to light up the park with millions of twinkling lights. This first glow brings a special magic to Highlands, and visitors can experience that wonder all season long. The park’s softly lit trees, the sounds of joy from the ice-skating rink, and a festive atmosphere invite everyone to make lasting holiday memories.
Home for the Holidays
December 5-21
This holiday season, Highlands comes alive with Home for the Holidays: Sounds of the Season, a cherished tradition from Mountain Theatre Company. This 90-minute performance is new but features festive songs, dazzling costumes and original holiday arrangements. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather with family and friends, soak in the festive atmosphere, and make lasting memories here in Highlands! Get tickets HERE.
2025 Highlands Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 6
10am-12pm
The Highlands Christmas Parade, is a small-town holiday tradition you won’t want to miss! As bands, camels, and festive floats arrive, Main Street fills with holiday cheer and excitement. Gather family, friends, and neighbors to enjoy this annual celebration filled with music, costumes, and Christmas spirit. The parade kicks off at 10am so be sure to arrive early and find a great spot to watch the magic unfold!
Santa in the Park
Friday, November 28 and Saturdays, December 6, 13, 20
11am-3pm
Santa Claus will make special appearances in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on select dates from 11am to 3pm (a little later after the Christmas Parade and 12/6). Children will also have the opportunity to share their holiday wishes with a designated mailbox in the park. Santa will collect letters during his visits.
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, December 13
8:30am
Kick off the Christmas season with Breakfast with Santa at Highlands United Methodist Church on Saturday, December 13 at 8:30am. Kids can enjoy a hearty breakfast, meet Santa, and take festive photos amid twinkling decorations. Suggested donation: $10 per family. Call (828) 526-3376 by December 5 for reservations.
Lighting of the Menorah
Sunday, December 14
5:30pm
Hanukkah is an eight-day winter festival that celebrates the victory of light over darkness. Each night, one candle on the giant menorah is lit, starting with the first candle on the first night and adding one more each night. By the eighth night, the menorah will be completely lit. The celebration will take place in the Highlands Community Building - 869 N 4th St, Highlands.