With the holiday season quickly approaching, now's the time to start planning your Christmas adventures! North Carolina has so many wonderful towns that transform during the holiday season, but few can compare to spending Christmas in Bryson City. This Smoky Mountain town truly embraces the season, and in our opinion, it's one of the best Christmas towns in North Carolina. Here are some of the festive activities you can look forward to when you visit Bryson City, North Carolina this time of year.

It’s easy to see why Bryson City is one of the best Christmas towns in North Carolina.

This charming town that's tucked away in the Smoky Mountains is the ultimate destination for a holiday vacation with the family. The jolly good times kick off on November 25, 2023, with the annual tree lighting at the Swain County Visitor Center and Heritage Museum. Caroling and live nativity begin at 5 p.m. and are followed by complimentary hot cocoa and cookies. Kids will be able to write their letters to Santa and put them in the mailbox before the mayor of Bryson City illuminates the massive, 24-foot Christmas tree to officially begin the Christmas season.

The downtown center is just dreamy when illuminated by all of the sparkling lights.

It's perfect for a date night or a family outing. There will be plenty of opportunities to do a little shopping, too. The Smoky Mountain Farmers and Artisans Market has a fabulous Holiday Market that takes place every Friday and Saturday from November 17, 2023, until December 16, 2023, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Another great option is the Merry Market with Santa on December 9, 2023, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the NOC Campus in Bryson City.

Both are excellent options for holiday shopping, and you might even get to meet Santa!

There are plenty of seasonal recreational activities to enjoy in Bryson City, too. Ice skating is just one of the many options you can look forward to.

Bryson City’s The Yard transforms into a synthetic ice rink beginning on November 17, 2023. There will be a food truck serving up tasty treats plus a bar for some adults-only beverages.

On the morning of December 2nd, head on over for an enchanting breakfast buffet with Santa at the River’s End Restaurant.

This local favorite eatery offers spectacular views of the gorge and the beautiful Nantahala River. Don’t worry about getting dressed up, pajamas are encouraged! Reservations are necessary, so be sure to make yours ahead of time.

After breakfast, stick around the downtown area to enjoy the annual Bryson City Christmas Parade.

This year marks the 48th year, and it’s always a holly jolly good time. Floats, marching bands, fire trucks, and antique cars will all be parading through the streets beginning at 2 p.m.

The fun continues over at Darnell Farms, where you can hop on the holiday hayride.

The Christmas Wonderland Hayride with Darnell Farms is always a hit with the kids, and it’s a holiday tradition for many locals, too! The hayride will take you through the farm to view the magical holiday lights, plus enjoy some hot chocolate and cider. Santa does make an appearance, and will be available for photos! Tickets to the Christmas Wonderland Hayride do tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to get yours as soon as possible.

Speaking of Santa, be sure to hop aboard the Polar Express for an enchanting evening through the Smoky Mountains.

The train ride is set to the soundtrack of the movie, and Santa’s helpers will also be on board, reading along with the story, passing out hot chocolate, and more. You’ll journey to the North Pole where Santa will be waiting to greet every child with a special gift. The entire experience takes just over an hour and creates memories that will last a lifetime!

Right next to the train depot, you'll find Uncle Bunky’s Christmas Cottage, a charming shop overflowing with holiday decor you'll want to take home.

It's the perfect place to snag a souvenir to remember your Christmas in Bryson City! Get yourself a unique tree topper or an ornament to take home with you so you can remember your visit to Bryson City year after year.

For a glimpse into the seasonal magic, be sure to check out this video of Christmas in Bryson City:

It looks positively magical, doesn't it? Check out the official Bryson City website for more information, and start planning your holiday adventures today!