As the magic of the holidays comes to the mountains, Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) has plenty of fun, festive celebrations to make the season merry and bright for the young and young-at-heart during Holly Jolly Holidays, taking place December 2-16.
Space is limited, so advance registration is strongly recommended even if an event is free.
Friday, December 2 at 6-8 p.m.
Stephens-Lee Community Center – 30 George Washington Carver Ave.
$5 per child (kindergarten to eighth grade), must pre-register by November 28
If parents need a night out, let the kids join APR for a night in with games, crafts, and special activities that explore holidays around the world. Light dinner is included.
Tuesday, December 6 at 10-11 a.m.
Where Did the Gingerbread Man Go?
Stephens-Lee Community Center – 30 George Washington Carver Ave.
$5 per child (ages 3-5) with parent or guardian
The gingerbread man has run away. Can you help find him? Play games to find clues, make gingerbread cookies, and enjoy festive surprises.
Friday, December 9 at 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Tempie Avery Montford Community Center – 34 Pearson Dr.
Free (ages 50+)
Are you an older adult who loves celebrating the holidays? Join us for this special brunch served by Santa and his bubbly elves! Wear your pajamas, drink hot chocolate, and take pictures with Santa Claus. Enjoy door prizes, line dancing, and more.
Saturday, December 10 at 9-10:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.-noon
Stephens-Lee Community Center – 30 George Washington Carver Ave.
$8 per person (ages 2-9, parents, and other guests)
This event always sells out, so get your tickets early. Enjoy breakfast with Santa and celebrate the holidays with a morning full of fun.
Saturday, December 10 at 6-9 p.m.
Holiday Lights at Burton Street
Burton Street Community Center – 134 Burton St.
Free (all ages)
Burton Street Park is decked for the holidays. Take an evening walk around the field lit by luminaries with hot chocolate and other festive treats.
Monday, December 12-Friday, January 6 at 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Walking in a Winter Wonderland
Grove Street Community Center (formerly Senior Opportunity Center) – 36 Grove St.
Free (all ages)
The Grove Street crafting club has been busy building a winter wonderland showcase to celebrate the holidays and bring joy to the community. Stop in to take a peek! Community center is closed December 23-27 and January 2.
Monday, December 12 at 6-8 p.m.
Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center – 121 Shiloh Rd.
$1 per card (all ages)
Join friends and neighbors for holiday-themed bingo where everyone is possibly a winner. Light refreshments and drinks provided.
Wednesday, December 14 at 10 a.m.-noon
Stephens-Lee Community Center – 30 George Washington Carver Ave.
$5 per child (ages 3-5) with parent or guardian
Jingle bells, reindeer magic, and a snowball toss are part of the celebration. Stephens-Lee’s gym is packed with inflatables, toys, activity stations, and light refreshments. There might even be a special visitor for those who need to double check their lists.
Thursday, December 15 at 1-3 p.m.
Grove Street Community Center (formerly Senior Opportunity Center) – 36 Grove St.
Free (all ages)
Bring your homemade holiday cookies to share with others and enjoy hot cocoa.
Friday, December 16 at 6-8 p.m.
Burton Street Community Center – 134 Burton St.
Free (all ages)
Join friends and neighbors for holiday-themed bingo with plenty of festive prizes. Light refreshments and drinks provided.
Already thinking about new year’s resolutions? Search APR’s programs at ashevillenc.gov/parks or sign up for a free fitness center membership at Linwood Crump Shiloh and Stephens-Lee community centers.
Prepared by the City of Asheville.