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
- 2-4pm: Live Ice Sculpture at The Highlands Welcome Center
- 2:30pm: The City Carolers stroll Main Street
Don't Miss out on the Deals:
- Monkee's of Highlands Gift Card Giveaway - Any purchase qualifies for a chance to win the $250 gift card, the drawing will be at the end of business hours Saturday on their Instagram.
- Black Friday Sale at Acorns - Lasting all weekend, receive 25% off storewide on home décor, gifts, jewelry, furniture, and more.
- The Dead Artists Gallery in Wright Plaza will have milk and cookies for kids of all ages as well as adorable Gingerbread Photo Ops!
- Spruce Interiors - Stop in from 11am to 5pm on Small Business Saturday for carefully curated holiday pieces, surprise giveaways, and plenty of seasonal inspiration.
- High Country Wine & Provisions - Enjoy 10% off all wines and charcuterie! (valid through December 19)
- Enjoy candy canes from the Highlands Police Department and more!
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
Friday November 28 and Saturdays, December 6, 13 & 20
Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park
- Friday, November 28 | 11am-3pm
- 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 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.
Home for the Holidays: Spirit of the Season
Opening, December 5 at 7:30pm, Showing through December 21
Highlands Performing Arts Center, Main Stage
Mountain Theatre Company closes the year with Highlands' most beloved holiday tradition Home for the Holidays returning in an all-new production: Spirit of the Season. This heart-warming 90-minute celebration bursts with breathtaking song, dazzling dance, and a touch of technical magic that will leave you asking, "How did they do that?"
An all-star cast performs festive favorites alongside fresh new arrangements, creating a sparkling seasonal spectacular for the whole family. Whether it's a cherished annual outing or brand-new tradition, Home for the Holidays: Spirit of the Season is the perfect way to celebrate the season and fill your heart with holiday cheer.
Click Here for showtimes and tickets.
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.
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, December 13
Beginning at 8:30am at Highlands United Methodist Church
Kick off the Christmas season with Breakfast with Santa at Highlands United Methodist Church on Saturday, December 13 at 8:30 am. 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 at Highlands Community Building - 869 N 4th St, Highlands
Celebrate Hanukkah 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.
Christmas Music with Matt Molesworth
Friday, December 19
6-8pm in 4118 Kitchen + Bar
Live music with Matt Molesworth on keyboard playing all your Christmas favorites.
*Dates and times are subject to change*