Ready to ring in the most wonderful time of the year? Head over to Ashe County this weekend to kick off the holiday season!
Downtown West Jefferson is a great place to celebrate, offering a wide variety of events and festivities that are open to the public. Read below for a rundown of special occasions and programs you can enjoy this year, starting with the holiday farmers’ market, the annual parade and the lighting of the town on Saturday, Nov. 21.
Cooler temperatures are on the way, so bundle up and get ready for a fun-filled day packed with holiday cheer!
SATURDAY, NOV. 21
The Holiday Farmer’s Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Start the day off with a stroll through the annual holiday farmers’ market. Located on the Backstreet in downtown, the market will offer you an assortment of great finds, including holiday wreaths, roping, trees, decorations, homemade and handcrafted goods, food and so much more. Get an early start on your Christmas shopping list or find some beautiful things to get your home ready for the season.
The holiday farmers’ market will continue the next two Saturdays, Nov. 28 and Dec. 5.
The Holiday Parade: 3-4 p.m.
When you’ve made your way through the holiday market, stop for lunch in town and then find a good spot for the annual holiday parade. The parade will begin at 3 p.m. on Saturday and will lead floats, cars and community groups on a spirited stroll through the heart of downtown West Jefferson. Sport your favorite seasonal colors or your best Christmas sweater and enjoy the small town holiday charm.
Light Up the Town: 5:30 p.m.
The town will come to life when the sun begins to set as local businesses and establishments turn on their holiday lights for the first time this year. Your favorite downtown destinations will be decked out in seasonal decorations. Many stores will feature extended shopping hours so you can start crossing things off of your gift list, and many restaurants will offer food specials and live music.
Madrigal Dinner: 6 p.m.
If you’re looking for an interesting new way to get into the holiday spirit, try joining the Ashe County Arts Council for a madrigal dinner. This Christmas season theater event will include a catered meal by Rosie Bolac, choral selections and entertainment from 12 performers through stories set in Medieval and Renaissance periods. Don’t forget to make a reservation if you want to attend. Call 336-846-2787 to get your tickets ($40 per person with reserved seating).
The madrigal dinner will also be offered on Friday night, Nov. 20.
OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS
Hometown Christmas Tree Lighting: Friday, Nov. 27
Join the community of West Jefferson for the annual lighting of the tree at downtown’s Backstreet Park. Santa will arrive in an old-fashioned fire engine and will hand out treats to all of the children.
Call 866-607-0093 or go online to visitwestjefferson.org for details.
Sugar and Spice Gingerbread House Workshop: Saturday, Nov. 28
Head over to the Florence Thomas Art School and join in the fun to create your own gingerbread house at this spirited workshop. Open to participants of all ages, this workshop will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. You must register in advance to join and participation will cost $20 per person. Call 336-846-3827 to make your reservation.
Small Business Saturday: Saturday, Nov. 28
Join the nationwide effort to do your holiday shopping in local stores instead of the big box establishments. Get to know the shops in downtown West Jefferson and find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.
Ashe County Choral Festival: Thursday, Dec. 3
This annual concert features your holiday favorites performed by choruses from Ashe County Schools. The festival will take place beginning at 7 p.m. at the Ashe Civic Center and tickets will be $3 for adults and students. Call 336-846-2787 for more information.
Christmas Gallery Crawl: Friday, Dec. 4
Take a walk through downtown West Jefferson and enjoy a holiday-themed open house event from 5-8 p.m. at more than 17 art galleries and studios. While you’re in town, enjoy the lights, stop for dinner and do some shopping.
Saturday with Santa/Tree Fest Open House: Saturday, Dec. 5
See eight thematically decorated Christmas trees and miniature arts exhibits at the Ashe County Arts Council in historic downtown West Jefferson. The holiday gift shop will feature locally made arts and crafts. Santa and Mrs. Claus will join the open house and each child will receive a book and holiday gift bag. Admission is $5 per child. The fun will take place from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Call 336-846-ARTS or visit ashecountyarts.org for more information.