If holiday festivities in a picturesque mountain town sound like a scene straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, look no further than Cashiers and Highlands, North Carolina. In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, these charming communities come alive every December with activities that evoke the spirit of small-town America: think Christmas parades, spirited caroling, and warmly lit streetscapes beneath frosty winter skies.
VIDEO: Christmas Lights at Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club
Traditions of Christmas on the Plateau
Christmas Parades
The annual Christmas parades in both Cashiers and Highlands are a cornerstone of the holiday season. Children and adults line the streets to watch decorated floats, and wave at Santa and Mrs. Claus as they make their grand entrance.
These parades draw friends, neighbors, and visitors together in a heartwarming display of community spirit—and, in true mountain fashion, you might see a few four-legged friends donning holiday sweaters along the route.
A float from Blue Ridge School prepares to join the Christmas Parade in Cashiers
Ice Skating in Highlands
For the perfect holiday outing, lace up your skates and test your balance at the outdoor ice-skating rink in Highlands. Surrounded by towering evergreens and festive string lights, the rink offers a classic winter experience that’s sure to put you in the holiday mood. Whether you’re gliding gracefully or clinging to the boards, the end result is pure winter magic that’s fun for the whole family.
Holiday Lights and Caroling at The Village Green
In Cashiers, the holiday spirit shines brightest at The Village Green, where thousands of lights twinkle against the night sky. Stroll through the illuminated pathways, enjoy group caroling events, and admire interactive displays perfect for the little ones. The combined glow of Christmas lights and cheerful voices in the crisp mountain air creates a nostalgic feeling you won’t soon forget.
Just like the stars above them, Christmas lights shine brightly throughout the holiday season at the Village Green, illuminating the brisk and festive mountain air
Candlelit Christmas Eve Services: A Cherished Mountain Tradition
Just a few minutes from the crossroads in Cashiers, the Church Of The Good Shepherd hosts candlelight services bringing holiday cheer among neighbors — a collective warmth in a chilly season
Another hallmark of a classic mountain-town Christmas in Cashiers and Highlands is found within the churches that dot the landscape. Many host candlelit Christmas Eve services, where the flickering candles illuminate the pews and stained-glass windows with a soft glow. Such gatherings offer a peaceful moment of reflection amid the holiday bustle. Carols ring out in unison, and the familiar melodies of “Silent Night” resonate through the air, linking neighbors and friends in shared community and faith. It’s a scene that evokes the warmth and unity of a simpler time—a scene straight from a Norman Rockwell painting, right here in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Private Club Festivities
Locals and visitors who belong to the area’s private clubs enjoy traditions unique to each venue, such as dinner with Santa and the annual tree trimming at Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club. Families bond over hearty meals, children deliver wish lists to Santa, and everyone joins in hanging ornaments on a towering evergreen. These festive club gatherings provide a peek into the spirited camaraderie that defines mountain living.
Opportunities for Giving Thanks and Giving Back
Kati and Ali wrapping presents for Operation Christmas Box
One of the most meaningful traditions in our holiday season is helping the Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors to support those in need with Operation Christmas Box. Every year, we come together as a real estate community to wrap special boxes that we deliver to our homebound elderly neighbors. Inside these brightly wrapped packages are simple, comforting essentials—warm blankets, pantry staples, and small treats—designed to bring a bit of cheer to those who might feel isolated during the holidays.
This annual effort isn’t just about the items inside each box; it’s about the hands and hearts that prepare them. Each year, Kati and Ali are in charge of wrapping boxes with the help of their fellow brokers and wrapped a total of 60 boxes ready for delivery. You’ll often find neighbors and colleagues working side-by-side, sharing stories, and spreading a sense of true holiday spirit. In a season centered around gratitude, it’s an opportunity for everyone involved to express heartfelt thanks for the community we share and to bring a little light into someone else’s day. It’s a reminder that in Cashiers and Highlands, giving back isn’t a once-a-year act—it’s a proud tradition we embrace as part of our mountain-home way of life.
Kati & Ali’s Holiday Favorites
No holiday blog post would be complete without a few beloved holiday treats. If you’re planning to host a mountain-style Christmas or just want to enjoy some tried-and-true favorites, here are Kati & Ali’s top picks for the season:
1. Fizzy & Fun Drink
Pomegranate Champagne Punch (Kati’s Pick)
For a festive toast, Kati recommends this easy, elegant punch featuring pomegranate juice, orange liqueur, and bubbly champagne. The pop of red against the fizz makes it visually stunning—perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights by the fire.
2. Meaty Goodness for Christmas Dinner
Perfect Prime Rib (Ali’s Pick)
If a hearty, memorable centerpiece is what you’re after, Ali loves this prime rib recipe. Slow-roasted to bring out the beef’s rich flavor and tenderness, it’s a showstopper that will fill the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Serve it up with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes for a timeless Christmas feas
3. Easy Button for Christmas Morning
Authentic Danish Kringle (Kati & Ali’s Pick)
For a no-fuss, sweet start to Christmas Day, Kati and Ali swear by a shipped-in Danish kringle. Flaky and filled with cinnamon, pecans, or fruit, this pastry allows you to enjoy a special breakfast treat without any major prep work—leaving more time for opening presents and making memories.
A Real Estate Perspective
Kati and Ali celebrate a Christmas together — in full regalia
For those considering a move or purchase in the area, the Christmas season is a window into mountain living at its best. There’s an unmistakable sense of community here—a place where neighbors gather for a parade, clubs organize tree trimmings, and everyone trades holiday cookies and greetings. This time of year also offers the perfect opportunity to explore available properties that highlight the warmth and charm of life in Cashiers and Highlands.
Let’s Wrap-Up
Christmas in Cashiers and Highlands is the perfect blend of nostalgic traditions, winter magic, and small-town camaraderie. Whether it’s parading down Main Street, sipping on a fizzy pomegranate punch, or savoring a beautifully roasted prime rib, these mountain towns encourage you to slow down and soak in the holiday spirit. For potential new residents or curious visitors, this is a season of discovery—one that captures the best of old-fashioned Christmas cheer, Norman Rockwell style.
From all of us in the Blue Ridge Mountains, have a merry and magical Christmas—and don’t forget to treat yourself to Kati & Ali’s festive favorites along the way!
