Tickets for the 2026 Bear Shadow spring music festival will go on sale Thursday, Dec. 11, at 12 noon ET, according to an announcement from Highlands Festivals, Inc.

Santa and Mrs. Claus make Highlands their holiday home this December, welcoming children for festive visits at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park—and for those who miss him in person, a special mailbox awaits their letters.

From candlelit tours to gingerbread creations, the Cashiers Historical Society invites all to celebrate the season with two festive events.

The Bear Shadow Music Festival comes back to Highlands May 29–31 with Grammy-nominated artists, mountain adventures, and a new scenic “Base Camp” at Ferngrove.

The Highlands Mountaintop Rotary Winter Coat Drive, in partnership with the Emergency Council, gathers hundreds of warm coats and accessories each year to help neighbors face the cold with comfort and dignity.

On December 13, the Highlands Winter Market moves indoors, offering a welcoming haven filled with seasonal charm.

Highlands gathers December 13 to honor veterans with wreaths and unity.

From December 1–12, Cashiers celebrates the season with daily heartfelt community cheer.

Highlands’ annual Menorah lighting on December 14 invites all to celebrate Hanukkah’s message of hope, resilience, and shared community.