We are so thrilled to join our community in celebrating the season this year! Here are 5 holiday activities we just can’t miss in 2022.

#1 Holiday Events at Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre

A Southern Appalachian Christmas is showing December 8-18, 2022, and is set right here in WNC! Sara hasn’t been home for Christmas since she moved to New York six years ago. Now, for the first time in years, Sara is back in her hometown, celebrating with the family and friends she left behind. During this visit, she learns exactly what’s most important to her and gains a new respect for where she came from. It’s a story of love, hope, and cheer during the holiday season. Featuring some of the best local talent, this is not one to miss!

A Christmas Carol will be showing at Owen Theatre on December 11th at 6pm and December 17th at 5pm! In this Theatre for Young Audiences production, Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by ghosts through a frightful night and wakes up a kinder soul with joy in his heart. Featuring local professional actors and Mars Hill University students, this play is fun for the whole family!

We’re also thrilled to present our First Annual Winter Gala on December 4th at 4pm! We will be partnering with Mars Landing Galleries for this elegant evening of live entertainment, a live auction, and dinner catered by local eateries where they’ll be raising funds for their 49th season! This event will be located at Mars Landing Galleries.

#2 Mars Hill University’s Annual Holiday Concert

On Saturday, December 3 at 7:30 p.m. in Moore Auditorium, the Mars Hill University Department of Music will present its annual Holiday Concert. The concert is free and open to the public. The concert will feature music of the season performed by the Mars Hill University Choir, Wind Symphony, Woodwind Ensemble, and Percussion Ensemble. In addition, special organ prelude music will be provided by University Organist, Cathy Adkins.

The general public is invited to join in the singing of the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s Messiah at the conclusion of the concert. Rehearsal for this will be from 4-5 that Saturday afternoon. People interested can receive more information by contacting Dr. Rodney Caldwell, Chair of the Department of Music, at rhcaldwell@mhu.edu.

#3 Shopping in Mars Hill

We love our community and we invite you to join us in supporting our local businesses this season!

Mars Landing Galleries is a standout gallery for the works of over 34 visual artists nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and beyond. This curated gallery provides viewers ample space for contemplation, connection, and ultimate appreciation of exquisite works. A must-see destination for both curious art lovers and those actively seeking to expand their own private art collections. Currently showing Saints of Paint: Unearthed. Located at 37 Library Street, Mars Hill.

Yiayia Black Sheep is a "ewe"nique yarn shop that provides yarn, tools, notions, gifts for fiber lovers. They also host events like their maker’s workshop on December 10th. Bring your own project that you need to complete, or choose a kit for mini stockings, a Wee Jolly Elf, or mini mittens for you to decorate your tree and mantle. Cookies and Mulled Cider will be provided! Located at 24 S. Main St., Mars Hill.

The Quill and Honey features home and body products free of harmful chemicals and toxins. A new addition to Main Street, their soaps, candles, fragrances, and more make the perfect gifts this holiday season! Located at 18 South Main Street, Mars Hill.

#4 Weaverville's Candle Light Stroll

Join together on Main Street in Weaverville for this special event on December 9th at 6pm! Weaverville’s Community Center at Lake Louise will come alive with music and entertainment for this annual event. Other Festivities include crafts, a scavenger hunt, food, drink, story telling, and horse-drawn carriage rides! Find out more about this fun event HERE.

#5 Mars Hill Christmas Parade

Last but not least, don’t miss the Mars Hill Christmas Parade! Happening on Friday, December 6th at 6pm here in downtown Mars Hill.

We are so excited for the holiday season and we hope to see you in the community!