Mark your calendar!
Ice Skating in the Park
Thursday, November 20 through Early March
Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park
Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park will once again host ice skating, managed by Highlands Parks and Recreation. The rink opens on Thursday, November 20 and continues into early March, weather permitting. Regular hours are:
Thursdays from 3:30 to 8pm
Fridays from 3:30 to 10pm
Saturdays from 1 to 10pm
Sundays from 1 to 5pm.
Special holiday hours include extended skating during Thanksgiving week and Christmas break, with a festive New Year’s Eve skate running from 1pm to 1am. Admission is just $8, with or without skates, and hot drinks will be available for purchase. Click here to learn more.
Holiday Market at The Bascom
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 along Main Street
Downtown Highlands celebrates local shopping with festive fun, treats, and performances throughout the day:
- 11:30am: Storytime at Hudson Library
- 12–2pm: Southern Highland Band perform
- 1:30–2:30pm: Face painting at The Bascom
- 2:30pm: The City Carolers stroll Main Street
Enjoy candy canes from the Highlands Police Department and special offers from local shops.
Light Up the Park & Main
Saturday, November 29
6-8pm in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park
As evening falls, the community gathers at Founders Park for carols, treats, and a reading of ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, by Mayor Pat, culminating with Santa’s firetruck arrival and Highlands’ sparkling holiday lighting.
Santa in the Park
Saturdays, December 6, 13 & 20
Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park
- Saturday December 6 | After the parade - 3 p.m.
- Saturday, December 13 | 11am-3pm
- Saturday, December 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 Pade 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.
Highlands Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 6
Beginning at 10am along Main Street.
The longstanding Highlands Christmas Parade will bring Main Street to life with marching bands, llamas, camels, creative floats, and, of course, Santa himself. This free event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.
Community members are invited to participate by submitting an application to the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC no later than noon on November 15.
Lighting of the Menorah
Sunday, December 14
5:30pm in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park
Celebrate Hanukkah at Founders Park with the Lighting of the Menorah. One candle lights the first night, with more each evening until all eight shine, symbolizing light’s triumph over darkness.
*Dates and times are subject to change*
All events are free and open to the public, and all are made possible by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.