There are plenty of destinations all across the country that invite you to spend time within the area. Finding an ideal vacation destination can now be harder than ever with so many options. However, one option that never goes out of style and always provides you with plenty of exciting activities is Asheville. Come check out the Great Smoky Mountains and other outdoor attractions when you visit us. Asheville is a great destination no matter what time of year, including the holidays. The holiday season is often spent at home, but this year treat your family to a new tradition by spending Thanksgiving here in Asheville. Take a look at all of the great reasons why Asheville during Thanksgiving is the perfect destination:
Asheville Turkey Trot
One of the best reasons to visit Asheville around the holidays is to check out the local events going on. Thanksgiving offers plenty of reasons to be thankful so join the locals in celebrating the holiday right. All across the country many individuals will wake up on Thanksgiving morning ready to give their body a little workout before indulging themselves with a delightful feast. One of the most popular ways to start your Thanksgiving holiday is to participate in a local turkey trot. This is a race, often 5K in length, that supports a local cause and helps everyone get their appetite started for later in the day. Asheville has our very own turkey trot with the appropriately named Asheville Turkey Trot. This year’s race will be our 22nd consecutive one and is shaping up to be a ton of fun!
This local race benefits the MANNA FoodBank that has supplied over 34,000 meals for those in need just from the race’s proceeds alone. The Asheville Turkey Trot will take place Thanksgiving morning and will start with a 1-Mile Gobble Run that is perfect for children and those who just want to enjoy a quick run. The turkey trot itself is a 5K race and will benefit shortly after the 1-mile run. Participants are encouraged to have all the fun they want by dressing up in their favorite turkey costumes. No pets are allowed at the race however strollers are allowed and encouraged to start in the back of the pack to prevent race congestion. The race will begin at the YMCA and make its way before ending at Pack Square Park. Registration is required to participate in the race and is open now; register early to save on your overall fees that will go up closer to the race. The 1-Mile Gobble Run will start at 8:30 AM with the Turkey Trot starting soon after at 9:15 AM. Come get your holiday appetite started with the Asheville Turkey Trot!
Dine Out on Thanksgiving
Whenever you travel, you often don’t want to spend too much time preparing your own food. Checking out the local restaurant scene is always an exciting endeavor, and Asheville has plenty to offer. While most restaurants are typically closed on Thanksgiving there are quite a few that remain open in Asheville. Come dine out at popular locations such as Bargello that is open noon to 8:00 PM for their prix-fixe Thanksgiving meal served family style. Capella on 9 offers their delicious food from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM for dinner. Pack’s Tavern is a great spot for a more casual meal as their Thanksgiving buffet is always a local favorite. RendezVous offers special seating at several points in the day to dine in with them. Additional restaurants that are typically open for dine-in services also include Blackbird, District 42, Old Europe, and Sovereign Remedies. You will also find additional restaurants that offer takeout services that can be ordered in advance. Such locations often include Moose Café, Montgomery Sky Farm, and Luella’s. There are plenty of options for a meal out on the town!
Winter Lights at North Carolina’s Arboretum
Part of the fun of Thanksgiving is that it is also a preparation for Christmas. During your Thanksgiving stay make sure you find yourself over at the North Carolina Arboretum for their annual Winter Lights set up. The gardens are taken over by a variety of holiday displays and lights that include a 50 lighted tree and brand new designs. Admission is per car that enters the premises before you get to walk around the gardens. Due to the popularity of the event many evenings will have staggered entry times to prevent congestion. Don’t miss out on this holiday favorite!
Asheville Is Always Shining
These are a few of the ways to make sure you have the best Thanksgiving here in Asheville. Reach out to us today and get ready for your stay by booking one of our Asheville vacation rentals in the area. Find wonderful amenities for the most comfortable stay in the area.