With Thanksgiving in the rear view, many are quickly turning their attention to an even bigger holiday season ahead.
Some will travel, some will play host to family and friends, others will settle into the quiet beauty of winter in the mountains. No matter what’s on your calendar, the holidays are a perfect time to support local farms, artisanal producers, specialty retailers, historic venues with agricultural roots, unique farm stays and local chefs dedicated to farm-to-table menus.
Here are some ideas that are sure to make your season merry & bright:
- Add local flavor to your menus with Haywood County raised beef, chicken, pork, bison or trout.
- Local honey, jams, jellies, savory spreads, pickled items and Waynesville Soda Jerks’ “Appalachia in a Bottle” handcrafted sodas are always in season. Visit our directory for a list of artisanal producers and specialty retailers. These make fantastic hostess gifts and stocking stuffers as well as gourmet goodies for guests to enjoy.
- Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market will be open Saturdays until mid-December featuring local products, crafts, baked goods and more.
- Smather’s Farmers & Public Market will be hosting The Kringle Holiday Market on Friday, 12/2 from 3:30-7:30pm with 40+ vendors, live music, Santa Claus, family photo ops, hot drinks, and more.
My husband is fond of saying, “I love experiences more than things.” That philsophy bled into the raising of our three daughters. More than buying gifts, we loved planning outings that became beloved annual traditions. Now that our girls are grown, it’s those special memories that keeps us company.
There is no shortage of opportunities here in Haywood to make lasting memories this holiday season:
- Visit one of Haywood’s picturesque farms for a holiday tree, greenery or holiday farm tour. Some are hosting visits with the big guy himself—Santa! You’ll find something to please both the young and young at heart when choosing to support local.
- From the Appalachian Family Christmas, 2022 Tinsel Trail and the Holiday Evening Candlelight Tours, the historic property at Shelton House has something special for everyone’s wish list.
- Beyond the gardens and walking paths, Lake Junaluska hosts a plethora of holiday events including Balsam Range Art of Music Festival and Christmas at Lake Junaluska to name a few.
- Have guests coming to town? Book a unique stay at one of Haywood’s farm-based properties.
- Dine with one of Haywood’s committed farm-to-table chefs for a private dinner, restaurant experience or catered event.
No matter where you roam this holiday season, we hope you’ll choose Haywood. It’s the destination that brings everyone together, year after year.
Warmest holiday wishes!
Tina Masciarelli & the Buy Haywood Team
Featured photo, courtesy of Annie Spratt