Put ramekins on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-35 minutes, until puffed and golden. Remove from oven, and let stand for 5 minutes. With a flexible spatula, remove strata to
Apple Hill Farm Christmas BANNER ELK • NOVEMBER 14-DECEMBER 26 The High Country is known for its Christmas tree farms, but it also has a reputation for being a hospitable
Apple Hill Farm Christmas BANNER ELK • NOVEMBER 14-DECEMBER 26 The High Country is known for its Christmas tree farms, but it also has a reputation for being a hospitable
The High Country is known for its Christmas tree farms, but it also has a reputation for being a hospitable place to raise alpacas. Apple Hill gives walking farm tours, starting every half hour, during the holiday season. Afterward, you can shop for gifts made from the fiber of the animals you’ve met.
Tours through December 13: Friday-Sunday,10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tours after December 13: Wednesday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Admission $5-7, depending on age. (828) 963-1662. applehillfarmnc.com.
Light Up the Town!
WEST JEFFERSON • NOVEMBER 21
West Jefferson is always charming, but this annual event makes it downright festive. Go for the town’s parade at 3:00 p.m., and stay for the annual Light Up the Town event at 5:30 p.m. It includes extended downtown business hours, restaurant specials, live music, and luminary displays.
Christmas in the Park attracts droves of people from across the state. Enjoy music, hot drinks, hayrides, and visits with Santa in the park overlooking downtown.
This drive-thru light display features Rudolph catching a fish in Chetola Lake and other kid-friendly characters. The exhibit is free to the public and electrifies each evening around dusk.
The holiday tradition of burning a Yule log can be traced back to mid-winter festivals in northern Europe. They are, as they were then, considered representations of health and productivity. This Beech Mountain rendition, held at the town sled hill, includes a resident guitarist, s’mores, hot cocoa, cider, and hayrides.
This Ensemble Stage holiday variety show, modeled after classic Andy Williams and Bing Crosby Christmas television specials, has become a local favorite. Join residents for singing, dancing, sketches, and holiday cheer.
Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday, 2 p.m. Admission $9-18, depending on age. (828) 414-1844. ensemblestage.com.
New Year’s Eve Celebration at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort
SUGAR MOUNTAIN • DECEMBER 31
If you’re interested in hors d’oeuvres and champagne toasts, you should make reservations for this celebration several weeks in advance. But even spontaneous folks who decide to welcome 2016 in the High Country are invited to attend the torch light parade and watch the fireworks display that will rain over snow-covered slopes at midnight.
Torch light parade, 11:45 p.m. Indoor admission $25-80, depending on package. Parade and fireworks admission free. (828) 898-4521, x233. skisugar.com.
About High Country Host
The NC High Country encompasses Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, West Jefferson, Wilkesboro, and the small towns of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
If you need help planning your holiday getaway, contact the High Country Host Visitors Center. Travel counselors can provide you with upcoming holiday events, Choose & Cut Christmas Tree packages, and insider reviews. You can even get help finding a Choose & Cut farm that offers hayrides, hot chocolate, and a custom-sized garland!
You can reach the High Country Host at (828) 264-1299 or view detailed holiday event information and package deals at MountainsofNC.com.
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