Western North Carolina is a picturesque region that plays host to a variety of events throughout the year. From movie and food festivals to live music concerts, our area has something for everyone. Spend an afternoon shopping at Vintage Market Days in Asheville, or celebrate Christmas at the Biltmore Estate. Whatever you choose, attending any one of these Lake Lure events will leave you with lasting memories! Here are a few of our favorites.
Learn more about Lake Lure events when you download our free vacation guide! It’s full of information on fun things to do during your stay at The Esmeralda.
Top 8 Lake Lure Events
1. Lake Lure Polar Plunge | January
One of the best ways to celebrate New Year’s in North Carolina is to sign up for the Lake Lure Polar Plunge. Each January, hundreds of brave (and crazy) people support local charities by jumping into the frigid water. Costumes, bonfires, hot chocolate, and a live DJ complete the affair. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
2. Vintage Market Days | March
If you’re in need of a little retail therapy, be sure to check out Vintage Market Days in Asheville. This upscale, vintage-inspired market is held in cities across the country and features original art, antiques, clothing, and food. It’s a one-of-a-kind shopping experience for customers of all ages.
3. Asheville Herb Festival | May
Did you know that the Asheville Herb Festival is the greatest herb festival in the southeast? It’s held each year in May and features products from a wide variety of gardeners and herbalists. Festival-goers can stop by for herbal ointments, balms, soaps, teas, medicines, and more.
4. Lure of the Dragons Race & Festival | June
Lake Lure’s Lure of the Dragons race combines fun festivities with exciting competition. Teams paddle 250 meters down the Rocky Broad River in 30-foot long dragon boats, dressed in dragon heads, tails, and scales – all in the name of local charities.
5. Lake Lure Fireworks Celebration | July
Gather your family and friends for a fun evening on the lake! The Lake Lure Fireworks Celebration is truly spectacular and features food trucks, souvenirs, and, of course, fireworks. There is no charge for park entry or viewing.
6. North Carolina Apple Festival | September
The North Carolina Apple Festival is held over Labor Day Weekend in Hendersonville, North Carolina. It has been Western North Carolina’s premier family festival for over 60 years! Guests can enjoy four days of fun with arts & crafts, free entertainment, and plenty of freshly picked apples. Yum!
7. Downtown Brevard Halloweenfest | October
Located in Transylvania County, Brevard, NC is one of the best places to celebrate Halloween. Visitors can watch as vampires, zombies, and ghosts participate in the Flight of the Vampire Run or check out the costume contest and parade. A chili cook-off, pumpkin carving contest, haunted house, and masquerade ball are also available.
8. Christmas at Biltmore | November – January
If a trip to the Biltmore Estate is on your bucket list, make plans to visit this winter. The Biltmore Estate Christmas Celebration is a century-old tradition that delights thousands of visitors each year. America’s largest home sparkles with over 50 decorated Christmas trees, 65 adorned fireplaces, and countless twinkling lights. Feel free to tour the property for a one-of-a-kind holiday experience you’ll never forget.
Book Your Stay at The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant
Now that you know about some of the best Lake Lure events, it’s time to start planning your trip to North Carolina! Our Chimney Rock bed and breakfast is the perfect place to stay and offers top-notch accommodations and amenities. Rest up in one of our comfortable guest rooms, or reserve a cozy cabin. We even have a fabulous spa and a restaurant right on site. Check our availability and book your stay today!
Looking for more local events to attend? View our events calendar!