Mark Your Calendar for these January Events in the High Country
By Chris Murphy
The month of January is full of fun and exciting events in the High Country, from Boone and Blowing Rock to Banner Elk. Whether you’re searching for family-friendly events, food and drink events, live music or free festivals, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Be sure to pick up a High Country Visitors Guide to find even more events throughout the year.
** Due to the continued impact of Hurricane Helene, some events may be subject to cancellation.
Dec 31-Jan. 1: Fireworks in the Village at Beech Mountain Resort
Ring in 2024 with the ultimate fireworks display at Beech Mountain Resort! Join us on New Year’s Eve for a magnificent firework show visible from the Lodge, or the resort village. Don’t forget to grab a seat by the fire pit and watch as the skies light up in celebration for the new year! Beech Mountain Resort will also be hosting a free Family Friendly Celebration and Silent Disco, as well as a paid (ages 18+) concert at Beech Mountain Brewing Company before the fireworks.
Jan. 1-26: Festival of Lights at Chetola
Chetola Resort features a sparkling display of lights each winter season! The “Festival of Lights” is free and open to the public, and you are invited to enjoy thousands of dazzling illuminations throughout the resort. As you drive or stroll around Chetola Lake, view glittering ice skaters, “Rudolph” reeling in a big fish, strolling carolers and many more captivating holiday scenes.
The “Festival of Lights at Chetola” begins Thanksgiving weekend on Friday, Nov. 29, and remains up through Blowing Rock’s WinterFest till Sunday, January 26, 2025. The displays illuminate at dusk each evening.
Jan. 4: Winter King Street Farmers Market
Run every week on Saturday until March 2025. Find seasonal fresh vegetables, storage crops, locally-raised meats, eggs, honey, homemade jellies, jams, baked items, handcrafted skincare, candles, photography, bird feeders, toys, and unique crafts. This market is indoors at the Watauga Agricultural Conference Center, perfect for a chilly winter day.
Jan. 4: Winter Trails Day
Winter Trails Day at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort offers children and adults new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing for FREE. Discover the fun and fitness of snow sports. Guided tours are available on the hour from 9:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. The program includes a forty-five-minute tour and snowshoe rental. Adult tours are for those who are 12 years or older. Children’s tours are for those ages 8-11. Sign up at least fifteen minutes prior to your tour time at the ski/snowboard school.
Jan. 23-26: Blowing Rock Winterfest
Don’t miss the annual Blowing Rock WinterFest. This is your chance to get out of the house and experience all Blowing Rock has to offer in winter. This four-day event will feature a number of activities, including the icy Polar Plunge in Chetola Lake, WinterFeast, Ice Carving in Memorial Park, a chili cook-off and more.
Want more Events?
CALENDAR: Check out our High Country calendar of events to help plan your activities!
NEWSLETTER: Or sign up for our High Country Destination Newsletter to receive exclusive content for planning your vacation getaway to the North Carolina High Country!
