Christmas in the High Country: A Local Family Holiday Guide
The holiday season in the High Country is a truly magical time — from twinkling lights in downtown Boone to snowy tree farms and cozy mountain gatherings. Whether you’re a local family or visiting loved ones, this guide will help you plan meaningful Christmas memories that your kids will treasure for years to come.
🎄 Attend the Annual Boone Christmas Parade
The festive parade through Boone brings the community together with floats, music, and holiday cheer. It’s a perfect free family outing and a wonderful way to kick off the Christmas season with your children.
🎅 Choose & Cut Your Own Christmas Tree
One of the most beloved High Country Christmas traditions is visiting a local tree farm. Families can cut their own Fraser fir, enjoy hot cocoa, and take in breathtaking mountain views. Many farms also offer hayrides and kid-friendly activities.
✨ Enjoy Local Christmas Light Displays
Take an evening drive through Boone and Blowing Rock to admire festive light displays. This low-cost activity is perfect for young kids and creates a cozy holiday atmosphere the whole family will love.
🍪 Support Local Shops & Holiday Treat Stops
Warm up after sightseeing by visiting local bakeries and cafés. Supporting small businesses during the holidays helps strengthen the community while treating your family to seasonal goodies.
Check out our family-friendly business spotlight to find local favorites.
☃️ Snow Play & Outdoor Winter Fun
When snow falls, the High Country becomes a winter wonderland. Simple joys like sledding, snowball fights, and building snowmen often become the most memorable holiday moments.
🛷 Visit Local Christmas Events & Festivals
Tree lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and seasonal festivals pop up throughout the High Country in December. Keep an eye on local event calendars so you don’t miss out on family-friendly celebrations.
For updated event listings, visit this local holiday events guide.
🎁 Create Meaningful Family Traditions
Christmas traditions don’t need to be complicated. Writing letters to Santa, baking cookies together, or reading holiday books before bed are simple traditions that kids will remember for years.
📮 Write Letters to Santa
Set up a mailbox at home and let your kids decorate envelopes. It’s a fun craft activity and adds extra excitement to the season.
🍽️ Holiday Baking Days
Holiday baking is a great way to slow down and connect. Invite kids to help decorate cookies or build gingerbread houses — messy, joyful memories guaranteed.
🎬 Cozy Christmas Movie Nights
Create themed movie nights with blankets, popcorn, and hot chocolate. Watching holiday classics together is a perfect way to unwind after busy December days.
🎶 Holiday Music & Caroling
Fill your home with Christmas music or organize a small neighborhood caroling night. Music brings warmth and togetherness during the holidays.
✨ A High Country Christmas to Remember
Christmas in the High Country is about slowing down, connecting with family, and enjoying the season together. Whether you’re exploring local traditions or creating new ones at home, these holiday activities will help you make lasting memories.
Looking for more family inspiration? Explore our guides on indoor activities and self-care for busy moms to enjoy the season stress-free.
