The Grove Park Inn- Asheville, NC

I love this historic hotel in Asheville, but at Christmas it comes alive. Every year they celebrate a gingerbread house competition where people from all over come to share their masterpieces. All entries are up for display throughout the holiday season. There is even a life size gingerbread house where you can buy hot chocolate and cookies. Take it outside and soak in the view or sit by the giant fireplaces.

(📷:Omni Grove Park Inn Facebook )

Downtown Graham’s Ice Skating Rink- Graham, NC

If this doesn’t scream Hallmark Christmas movie, I don’t know what does! This ice skating rink is perfect for little kids and their parents! Skating most nights is completely free. On Thursday when they have theme nights like, skating with the princesses, there is a $5 charge. The art museum in the background is a magical setting for a fun night with the family!

(📷: Downtown Graham Facebook)

The Angus Barn- Raleigh, NC

The Angus Barn is one of the best steak houses in North Carolina and doesn’t disappoint during the holiday season. The decorate every nook and cranny! There are even little children dressed as elves to greet you in the loft of the foyer. Make reservations in advance to avoid long waits during the holiday season!

(📷: Angus Barn Instagram)

Tanglewood Festival of Lights- Clemmons, NC

A fun ride through Christmas light attraction that everyone will love. Tanglewood take about an hour to ride through but depending on the night you could wait for much longer than that! I recommend visiting on a week day night to cut down on wait time!

(📷: Tanglewood Festival of Lights website)

NC Holiday Flotilla- Wrightsville Beach, NC

This is a one night event the weekend after Thanksgiving! A Christmas parade of boats takes starts off the holiday season at the beach. This is something fun and different to experience together as a family.

(📷:N.C. HolidayFlotilla.org)