photos by: HALLEY BURLESON
Located just south of Boone and not far from the Tennessee border sits the quaint, hidden gem of a mountain town, Banner Elk. Like all the other small towns I’ve featured this year, it’s a special place full of charm, history and fun.
Since it’s basically a straight shot on US-421 North, the approximately two hours it takes to get there seem to fly by. Its proximity within the Blue Ridge Mountains makes it an ideal mountain escape for families before the busy holiday season.
The Heart of the Blue Ridge Awaits
From the small town vibes to the gorgeous mountain views, Banner Elk captures the hearts of every visitor. During the holidays, all the festive decor and events only seem to amplify everything special about this NC town.
“Banner Elk is a friendly, walkabout resort town in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains that blends small town relaxation with the amenities of a larger city. Visitors enjoy outdoor adventure, fabulous dining, professional theater, curated shopping and family attractions,” says Craig Distl, president of Distl Public Relations.
Top 5 Things To Do In Banner Elk
Banner Elk is the ultimate holiday winter adventure town for families. It’s basically like being in a snow globe! While you are there, be sure to check out these five destinations.
- Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster – Experience the thrills and excitement of the first alpine coaster in North Carolina.
- Grandfather Mountain Nature Park – This is a must visit NC mountain destination for its views, hiking trails and the Mile High Swinging Bridge.
- Wildcat Lake – Enjoy this 13-acre lake with some great fishing. Be sure to come back in the summer to enjoy the white sand beach and swimming.
- Apple Hill Alpaca Farm – A great spot for families, they offer Christmas-themed tours, guided alpaca tours and a petting zoo.
- Skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing at Sugar Mountain Resort and Beech Mountain Resort – These happen to be the south’s two largest ski resorts!
Why Visit in December?
Every year, during the first weekend of December, Banner Elk is transformed into a magical wonderland for families. It is the perfect way to kickstart the holiday season!
For years, the town hosted “Christmas in the Park” as a one-day event. It was always well received, so, in 2016, it was expanded to an entire weekend of festivities and called A Small Town Christmas. It’s a great way to enjoy a relaxing, old fashioned Christmas getaway before the inevitable holiday rush begins.
A Small Town Christmas kicks off with the lighting of the town tree at dusk on Friday evening. Saturday includes a pancake breakfast with Santa, Christmas sing-a-long, storytelling, ornament making, cookie decorating and shopping. The day finishes with a Christmas Parade at dusk, followed by a celebration with music, Santa and holiday train rides on the green of the Historic Banner Elk School. On the last day (Sunday), there is an Ensemble Stage show, and families are encouraged to visit area choose-and-cut tree farms to select their Christmas trees. Throughout the weekend, Apple Hill Alpaca Farm hosts holiday tours.
It’s so much fun, your family will likely want to make it a yearly tradition!
Details to Visit Banner Elk & A Small Town Christmas
Distance from Winston-Salem: A little more than 2 hours
Learn more about Banner Elk: bannerelk.com
Learn more about A Small Town Christmas: bannerelk.org/small-town-christmas-weekend.html
Dates: A Small Town Christmas takes place Friday, December 5, 2025 – Sunday, December 7, 2025
Instagram: @bannerelknc and @bannerelkncchamber
