Holiday Cheer is Here

Written By: Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC | Issue: November 2024

As the winter season approaches, Highlands transforms into a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights, cheerful gatherings, and plenty of activities for all ages. The Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC has curated a lineup of holiday events that will captivate visitors and residents alike. Here’s a peek into what’s in store this holiday season.

Ice Skating in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

Starting Thursday, November 21, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park will serve as the backdrop for ice skating. Operated by Highlands Parks and Recreation, the rink will be open every Thursday through Sunday until early March, weather permitting. With extended hours during Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks, families can enjoy an afternoon or evening gliding across the ice. Priced at just $8 – whether you bring your own skates or not – the rink is an affordable and fun way to embrace the season. And what’s winter without a cozy drink? Hot chocolate and coffee will be available to keep you warm.

Light Up the Park

On Saturday, November 30, at 6:00 P.M., the much-anticipated Light Up the Park event will bring the magic of the season to life. Thousands of twinkling lights will illuminate Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park as the community comes together for a joyous celebration. Live music by the Foxfire Boys, carol singing, children’s artwork displays, and a heartwarming reading of the Christmas story will set the scene for an unforgettable evening. The moment is capped by Santa Claus’ arrival atop a firetruck, signaling time for the park’s official lighting. This dazzling display will remain a must-see throughout the holiday season.

Santa in the Park

For families eager to meet Santa, the holiday season offers several chances. Every Saturday from December 7 through December 21, and on Christmas Eve, Santa will make appearances at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, ready to hear Christmas wishes from children of all ages. On Christmas Eve, appointments are required as Santa prepares for his big night. Families can book appointments online at the Highlands Chamber website. Santa will also stop by occasionally to collect letters from a special mailbox in the park, ensuring every child’s holiday wish is heard.

Highlands Christmas Parade

Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 7, as Main Street hosts the annual Highlands Christmas Parade starting at 10:00 A.M. A charming blend of local flair and festive spirit, the parade will feature marching bands, live animals, and creative floats – and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus. This long-standing tradition offers a perfect way to ring in the holidays with family, friends, and the entire Highlands community.

Lighting of the Menorah

Highlands is home to diverse holiday celebrations, and this year’s Lighting of the Menorah will take place on Wednesday, December 25, at 5:30 P.M. at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. This eight-day Hanukkah tradition symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, with one candle lit each night on the park’s giant menorah, culminating in a fully illuminated menorah by the eighth night. It’s a beautiful way to honor the season’s spirit of togetherness and celebration.
Whether skating in the park, celebrating with Santa, or joining in on any of the other wonderful holiday traditions, we invite you to the warmth and joy of the season here in Highlands.

To learn more about the Holiday in Highlands events call (828) 526-2112 or visit highlandschamber.org