Brevard’s charming downtown streets and storybook scenery have long made the area a beloved destination for travelers seeking a little holiday magic. A myriad of local shops, galleries and outfitters offer up some of the season’s most unique gifts in and around a historic downtown that twinkles with lights and radiates all the warmth and festive spirit of a Norman Rockwell print (with perhaps a few more mountain bikes). 

While some of Brevard's traditional holiday events will be different this year, fear not, holiday fans, halls will be well-decked, bells happily jingled, and glad tidings (as well as great shopping ideas) enthusiastically extended to you and your kin throughout the holiday season and beyond. 

If you’re looking for a holly, jolly way to step right into the season, the HeART of the Season (November 21-22) is a two-day event that celebrates downtown Brevard’s marvelous shops, galleries and Transylvania County’s flourishing arts community. Visitors can see (and purchase) a variety of pottery, woodworking, jewelry, glass and other arts and crafts from participating shops. And don’t forget to enjoy tasty seasonal specials and to-go options at some of our favorite local restaurants. 

The HeART of the Season may also be an excellent opportunity to see businesses ramping up for the Downtown Holiday Windows competition. Winners will be judged on December 7, but shoppers can take a self-guided walking tour throughout the holidays. And speaking of tours, Brevard’s beloved Twilight Tour will be back with a virtual edition, along with variety shows, local promotions and more.

The Brevard/Transylvania Chamber of Commerce has a brightly wrapped array of holiday giveaway events to highlight your shopping in Brevard this season. With a Shop Local Passport, visitors will receive a stamp for each purchase at a participating local shop or business from November 30 – December 18. Full passports can be dropped off at the Visitor Center by noon on December 18th to be entered to win one of two drawings for $250 in Transylvania Bucks. With fun for the whole family and no purchase necessary, The Holiday Stocking Hunt runs from November 30 - December 18, and invites shoppers out to find one of five special Holiday Stockings tucked away each week in participating locations redeemable at the Visitor Center for a $50 prize (each). 

Of course, the holidays are nothing without a tree. You can find your own Christmas Tree at farms throughout Transylvania County. Less traditional folks will enjoy a visit to ATOM (The Aluminum Tree and Aesthetically Challenged Seasonal Ornament Museum & Research Center), where the season finds its spirit fully sparkled out in over-the-top mid-century style. 

For those inclined to think outside, Brevard’s acres of forests and trails provide ample opportunity to let heaven and nature sing on a truly grand scale with normally mild temperatures and plenty of sunny days. See below for a few ideas on how you can think outside in the coming months.

When it comes time to hang the stockings with care, you’ll find a fair number of inns, cottages, and short-term rentals equipped with a cozy fireplace. Many accommodations offer holiday promotions and special rates, whether you’re looking for the perfect family getaway or a cool romantic yule for just the two of you. 

As always, there are dozens of ways in and around town to make your season bright in Brevard. We warmly invite you to join us as we celebrate a very merry holiday and a happy new year. Click the button below to explore our new holiday page and check back for updates throughout the season!