Fun & Festive Winter Adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Weaverville, Asheville & Surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains

Festive Holiday Dining Guide: Asheville & the Blue Ridge Mountains (December 2025 – January 2026)

As the snow dusts the peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and twinkling lights illuminate Asheville’s vibrant streets, there’s no better time to savor the season’s flavors. Whether you’re cozying up at the Inn at Amaris Farms or venturing into town, this guide curates the most merry dining experiences for you and your fellow guests. From pop-up bars aglow with holiday cheer to special Christmas feasts and New Year’s soirées, Asheville’s culinary scene blends mountain comfort with festive flair.

Asheville’s bars transform into winter wonderlands starting late November, perfect for pre- or post-dinner toasts with craft cocktails and twinkling decor. These spots run through early January, offering a mix of tiki twists, rooftop magic, and speakeasy vibes.

(December 2025 – early January 2026)

Miracle at Golden Pineapple Location: 503 Haywood Rd, West Asheville (about 25 minutes from the Inn) Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 2, 2026 Vibe & Details: The nationally famous Miracle pop-up returns with over-the-top Christmas décor—think thousands of lights, vintage Santas, and garlands everywhere. Cocktails are served in collectible holiday glassware (you can keep most of them!). Expect classics like the Christmapolitan, Jingle Balls Nog, and Yippie Ki Yay Mother F****r!

Holiday Glow at The Glass Onion Location: 18 N Main St, Weaverville (heart of Main Street—park and stroll post-dinner) Dates: Specials throughout December 2025; full holiday menu Dec. 1–31 Vibe & Details: This Southern soul-food haven amps up the cheer with twinkling lights, a crackling fireplace, and a seasonal menu of elevated comfort: think glazed ham with cornbread stuffing ($28), pecan-crusted trout with cranberry chutney ($32), and warm apple cider cocktails ($12). Pair with live acoustic carols on select Fridays. It’s walkable from the Candlelight Stroll, making it ideal for a pre- or post-event feast. Best for: Families or groups craving hearty, shareable plates in a historic brick-walled space. Reservations: Recommended via theglassonionavl.com; walk-ins for bar seating.

Sippin’ Santa at The Tiki Easy Bar Location: Hidden tropical speakeasy in downtown Asheville (entrance through The Imperial Life) Dates: November 19, 2025 – January 5, 2026 Vibe & Details: A sunny escape from winter—palm trees wrapped in lights, surfing Santas, and tiki mugs filled with holiday rum punches (try the Sugar Plum Mai Tai or Jingle Bird). Zero pretension, pure fun. Best for: Couples or anyone craving a beachy break from the cold. Reservations: No reservations; first-come, first-served. Arrive before 8 p.m. on weekends to avoid lines.

Winter Wonderland at Wicked Weed Brewpub Location: 91 Biltmore Ave, downtown Asheville Dates: November 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026 Vibe & Details: The entire lower level becomes a cozy Christmas village with trees, lights, and seasonal beers (look for Milk & Cookies Stout and Freak of Nature with cranberry). Great pub menu for pairing—pretzels, burgers, and loaded fries. Best for: Beer lovers and families (kid-friendly until 9 p.m.). Reservations: Call ahead for larger parties; bar seating is first-come.

A Very Perri Christmas at Peri Social House Location: Monte Vista Hotel, 308 W State St, Black Mountain (only 15–20 minutes from the Inn!) Dates: November 28, 2025 – January 6, 2026 Vibe & Details: Home of Western North Carolina’s tallest Christmas tree (usually 35–40 ft inside the lobby). The bar serves spiked eggnog, hot buttered rum, and festive charcuterie under thousands of ornaments. Live music most weekends. Best for: Guests staying at the Inn who want something magical and close by—no downtown traffic. Reservations: Strongly recommended via OpenTable, especially Friday/Saturday nights.

Literary Holiday Cheer at Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar Location: 1 Page Ave, downtown Asheville (20 minutes from the Inn, steps from Pack Square) Dates: November 28, 2025 – January 5, 2026 (holiday decor and specials throughout the season) Vibe & Details: This historic bookstore-champagne bar hybrid transforms into a Dickensian dream with twinkling string lights draped over towering bookshelves, a roaring fireplace, and shelves stocked with holiday reads like “A Christmas Carol.” Sip on seasonal flutes of bubbly—try the Winter Berry Bellini (sparkling wine with house-made cranberry-ginger shrub and rosemary) or Eggnog Royale—paired with small bites like truffle cheese boards or gingerbread shortbread. Live jazz carolers pop up on select evenings, creating a cozy, intellectual escape amid 20,000+ books. Best for: Bookworms, quiet date nights, or anyone seeking sophisticated sips with a side of storytime magic. Reservations: Recommended for tables via OpenTable; walk-ins welcome at the bar, but it fills up fast during peak holiday hours.

Embrace traditions with turkey, stuffing, and Southern twists. Many spots offer to-go options for intimate farm dinners at the Inn at Amaris Farms, while others host lavish seatings. Expect prix-fixe menus from $65–$100/person.

• Biltmore Estate Christmas Celebration Dining (Nov. 1, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026): Indulge in multi-course holiday dinners amid 35-foot Fraser firs and 25,000 ornaments. Venues like the Dining Room serve roast turkey with cranberry relish; candlelight evenings add romance. Tickets start at $80; include estate access. Perfect for a full-day outing with Blue Ridge views.
• Grove Park Holiday Buffets (Nov. 17, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026): Sunset Terrace hosts grand Christmas buffets with prime rib, seafood towers, and gingerbread-inspired desserts near the National Gingerbread House Competition. $95/adult; live music and fireside seating. A short drive from Asheville—book for Dec. 24–25.
• Moose Cafe Christmas To-Go Feast (Throughout December): Pickup Dec. 24 at 376 Swannanoa Ave. for a complete meal: roast turkey, sweet potato soufflé, cornbread dressing, and pie ($150–$200 for 4–6). Ideal for a quiet farm-side spread; order by Dec. 20.
• Bargello Italian Holiday Dinner (Dec. 25): 5–9 p.m. at 18 Broadway St. Four-course prix-fixe with turkey, stuffing, and Mediterranean accents ($75/person). Festive decor and wine pairings make it a cozy downtown escape.
• Hemingway’s Cuba Thanksgiving Carryover (Dec. 25 brunch): Rooftop at Cambria Hotel, 15 Clayton St. Cuban-holiday fusion like mojo turkey with plantains ($50/person). Open views of the mountains; it extends holiday vibes into Christmas.

Toast to fresh starts with fireworks, masquerades, and hearty brunches. Asheville’s scene shines from Dec. 31 to Jan. 1.

• Mystical Masquerade at Grove Park (Dec. 30–Jan. 1): 8 p.m.–1 a.m. Phantom of the Opera-inspired gala with gourmet hors d’oeuvres, carving stations, and midnight champagne. $250/ticket; masks encouraged for Blue Ridge glamour.
• Capella on 9 NYD Brunch (Jan. 1): 9th-floor AC Hotel, 10 Broadway St. Soulful Southern recovery with biscuits and bubbly ($70/person). Panoramic mountain views to ease into the year.
• Posana: New Year’s Eve Prix Fix:  Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Posana’s four-course prix fixe menu at their downtown Asheville or Biltmore Village locations. $120 per person, wine pairings available for $60. Reservations required. Call 828.505.3969 or book online.
• Wine & Cocktails: Hang out with your sweetie at The Montford Rooftop Bar in Asheville, open both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

As the Blue Ridge Mountains blanket in fresh powder and Asheville’s streets sparkle with holiday lights, it’s time to trade the farm’s cozy hearth at Inn at Amaris Farms for some exhilarating winter adventures. We’ve tapped into Explore Asheville’s ultimate winter guide to spotlight the season’s must-dos—think adrenaline-pumping slopes at Hatley Pointe, graceful glides at the new Holiday Ice Rink, and more. These spots are just 15–45 minutes from the Inn, blending mountain thrills with festive cheer. Bundle up, book ahead (snow-dependent openings!), and embrace the crisp air—perfect for creating holiday memories with your fellow guests.

Shred the Slopes at Hatley Pointe Ski Resort Location: Mars Hill, NC (about 15-20 minutes northwest of the Inn)

Dates: Targeted opening December 5, 2025 (exact date weather-dependent; typically mid-to-late December through early March 2026)

Vibe & Details: Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hatley Pointe boasts 21 slopes and trails for all skill levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging black diamonds and terrain parks for snowboarders. It’s a reservation-only haven with daily capacity caps to keep crowds low and vibes high—think fresh snow, stunning vistas, and après-ski fireside lounging. Family perks include an after-school ski program (enrollment opens soon), premium rentals with ski valet service, and lessons for all ages. No tubing this season, but live music nights and seasonal celebrations (like holiday-themed weekends) add festive flair.

Dining shines at Smoke & Timber, serving elevated Italian mountain fare like wood-fired pizzas and hearty pastas.

Best for: Adrenaline junkies, families introducing kids to snow sports, or couples seeking a full-day escape. Tickets & Reservations: Lift tickets, rentals, and lessons require advance purchase via www.hatleypointe.com—season passes available for unlimited access. Expect $50–$100/day for adults.

Glide into Holiday Magic at the Holiday Ice Rink at Asheville Yards

Location: 75 Coxe Ave., downtown Asheville (20 minutes from the Inn—easy Uber or a festive drive)

Dates: Daily, November 26, 2025 – January 19, 2026 (extended hours during holidays; check for weather closures)

Vibe & Details: Asheville’s newest winter gem transforms the South Slope into a twinkling Winter Wonderland with real outdoor ice, festive lights, seasonal music, and photo ops galore. Skate hand-in-hand amid holiday decor, sip hot chocolate or craft cocktails from pop-up bars, and browse a cozy winter market for local artisan gifts. Weekly theme nights (think “Ugly Sweater Skate” or live DJ sets) keep it lively, while non-skaters roam free through art installations and light displays. It’s the only downtown rink this season, drawing families for its inclusive, joyful energy—rent skates on-site and go!

Best for: Romantic date nights, group outings with kids, or a quick post-dinner twirl before hitting nearby pop-up bars. Tickets & Reservations: Skating sessions $15–$20/adult, $10–$15/child (skate rental extra ~$5; exact prices via exploreasheville.com or ashevilleyards.com); free entry for spectators. Book timed slots online to skip lines—private parties start at $250 for 10 guests (includes pizza!).