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The lights wrapped around the oak trees in downtown Forest City are part of an annual tradition that dates back to at least the 1920s. Today, while taking a ride

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

The lights wrapped around the oak trees in downtown Forest City are part of an annual tradition that dates back to at least the 1920s. Today, while taking a ride

North Carolina’s Hallmark Christmas Town: Forest City

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Downtown Forest City decorated for the holidays

The lights wrapped around the oak trees in downtown Forest City are part of an annual tradition that dates back to at least the 1920s. Today, while taking a ride in a horse-drawn carriage on weekends in December, “you almost feel like you’re in a snow globe,” says Amy Bridges, the downtown community development manager. “You can look up, and all you’ll see are the Christmas lights against the blanket of the dark sky.”

Click here for six more towns that twinkle during North Carolina’s holiday season. 

This story was published on Nov 13, 2024

Our State Staff

Since 1933, Our State has shared stories about North Carolina with readers both in state and around the world. We celebrate the people and places that make this state great. From the mountains to the coast, we feature North Carolina travel, history, food, and beautiful scenic photography.